Lori and I rolled into Warrenton after 3 long days of driving. Our journey took so long because we were required to drive the length of California traveling at 55 mph. This is the law due to the fact that we pulled a trailer to haul a commercial stove to Baja Bible School in Tijuana. We wished to drive faster but the California Highway patrolman who pulled us over with lights strobing blue and red in the fast lane asked us to slow down from warp drive and operate on impulse power by driving in the SLOW truck lane. We complied, but dude…55 is sooooo slow. Molasses runs faster in Florida right now than our Honda Pilot cruising through CA.

3 days on the road gives one a long time to reflect. I thought much about the poor of Tijuana. Baja Bible School is located on a hillside overlooking a very poor neighborhood. Compared to the cardboard shacks on the outskirts, this is considered a middle class area. For you and me, it is very urban, very poor.

I also thought and prayed for the students of BBS, an amazing group of fearless future leaders who love both Jesus and connecting with the poor.

The church will be in good hands when this group takes the helm of leadership. I was very impressed with their love for the Lord, the Word, and the church.

I reflected on the poor these leaders serve and reach in Mexico, the pimps and prostitutes of the red light district, the abused women in a safe house shelter, the orphaned children.

James says that pure religion is that which cares for widows and orphans. Jesus says that when we serve the least…we serve him. Powerful words about the poor…true?

For me I feel different like I went from light speed to impulse power…my world slowed down…passion emerged for the poor…whom Jesus loves and James says is foundation of pure religion.

I trust that you will have the privilege of getting out of the fast lane…soon. Slow down, drink in the purity that comes from connecting to that which Jesus loves.

I have heard it said that the poor are a sacrament for the church, that which is holy for the people who love the Father.

Do you see a cocophany of lights in your rear view mirror? Slow down, pull over, and repent. Go slow, think about the poor…purity emerges…passion follows…connection with Jesus results in a very special way.

BBS asked me to return next year to teach again…I can’t wait to drive slow, drink deeply the purity of the poor, and find hope in the truck lane.