ROG

Most people who follow this blog at all know what ROG is but I’ll share the story of ROG for everyone’s benefit. ROG is an acronym for Riders of Grace. It began as an idea birthed by the Pastor of our church who approached my husband and I. He thought the timing was right for a small group comprised of people within our church who enjoyed riding motorcycles. Simple enough. My overly enthusiastic husband jumped at this opportunity to serve in church and enjoy his favorite past-time (two birds, one stone!) so the group was promoted and our inaugural ride happened swiftly and efficiently. It did NOT happen without many people stepping up and devoting their time, ideas and support. Jim and Yvette Vaughn, Joe “Cueball” Jimenez, Brad Savelli, Herb and Kris Marlowe (who graciously gave our group the name), Bobby Daily, Ray and Freida Esparza to name just a few. Of course, as groups develop, people come and go but we have been so blessed by the people who have come and stuck with us. Sheila, Toni, Tom, Rob, Mia, Gil, Sylvia, Manny, Holly, Chris, Jose, Scott, Danny, Sean, George, Lou, Jerry and Mike.  Riders of Grace has had enormous support from non-riders, too! Jerry Batista, James Wynne and Wildmen of Grace Family Church? We wouldn’t be who we are without them.

We’ve supported worthy events and groups around the city and even organized two of our own with proceeds benefitting the Because of Ezra foundation, a non-profit near and dear to us.

Once unknown, we have now made a name for ourselves with the CMA’s, RuffRyders, NamKnights and countless others. The riders of ROG have done that by being a presence wherever we have asked them to go.

And the people our group has met along the way? School Principals, wives of fallen police officers, and military veterans to name a few.

Anyone is welcome to ride with us at any time~ the saved and unsaved, the former biker gang members, even a nudist or two! (True story) The only requirement is that when you ride with us, you represent Christ and will conduct yourself accordingly. No one has ever disrespected that single request. (Yes, clothing is required. LOL)

Today, my husband and I were taken by complete surprise by the generosity of some of our riders. Out of the blue, they presented us with this plaque and gift certificates.   

I was speechless ~ because of their HUGE hearts and because I have, admittedly, complained of the time and energy spent during moments of frustration when it didn’t seem like the group was grasping our vision…or when participation was lackluster…or when someone would criticize our efforts…It was in those moments when I pleaded with my husband to walk away. And then, as God always does with His perfect timing, Gooch would get a text from someone telling him that ROG is making a difference in their life or we would meet with Kyle and Robyn Matthews and know that every bit of aggravation I felt was ridiculous compared to each dollar we raised in memory of their son. I am humbled with the recognition I received today. But this belongs to my husband. He has persevered and remained the ROG’s voice, allowing no one to interfere with what God has designed within this group. The friendships, the fellowship, the prayer, the camaraderie…. they are really unmatched anywhere else in our lives. No one stands alone in this group and, for that, ROG should be proud. Gooch should be proud. I am insanely proud to be a friend to each of you.  I am insanely proud to be married to the man who has nurtured this unorthodox, outside-the-box small group. Thank you…. what a humbling morning.

~Amy