Rich Dixon and Jesus go on rides together.

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Jesus and I had another handcycling conversation this week.

The explanation requires a bit of bike geek talk. My spiffy new handcycle uses a unique e-assist system. On most e-bikes you just pedal, and the motor does the work. My bike is “torque sensitive,” which means the motor helps only in proportion to how hard I work. Pedal easy – not much assist. Pedal harder in a harder gear – more assist.

I chose this bike specifically because it encourages better workouts. I can’t just cruise along and let the bike do the work.

A few days ago, I caught myself cranking along enjoying the scenery at about 13-14 mph. I realized that more effort increased my speed to 17 mph. And I wondered – how often am I simply cruising, doing less than my best?

At that moment, I felt like Jesus poked me in the ribs with some questions.

What about following me? What about the kids you support? Are you giving less than your best, just cruising along, enjoying the scenery?

People are constantly amazed that an old, bald guy in a wheelchair cranks out so many miles on a handcycle. But…

An observer doesn’t know if I’m working hard or just cruising. I’m accountable only to myself.

Those observers also can’t know if the FREEDOM TOUR is doing all we can with the gifts we’ve been given. They can’t know if we’re cruising, content with same-old-same-old, or if we’re pushing ourselves.

Accountability, in this case, is between me and Jesus. Perhaps that poke in the ribs was an invitation to ask if I’ve been coasting a bit more than I should.

You and I are blessed to be a blessing. You don’t crank a handcycle, but perhaps Jesus is poking you in the ribs as well.

Could you be pushing a little harder on the pedals?