not far from the cross

one of my favorite people in life, a big biker dude (hereinafter "big daddy") who is actually a friend of ours, came in for breakfast with his wife this morning. at bruce's memorial service, he was the first to get up and *share* about his relationship with bruce, and was charming and funny and sincere and poignant.

big daddy and i have had discussions about spirituality before. he said he used to do the bible studies, prayer groups, church stuff - until a second or third sibling of his died of a strange inherited disease. this, combined with being the one who "measures once and cuts twice" he feels as though this black cloud hangs over his head and he's pretty embittered when pressed into coversation about The Big Guy. however, when i took a break to come out and sit with him and his wife, he noticed my ring on my left index finger - it's a Crucifix ring, i told him, so i can have Jesus close by at all times...he said "that's pretty cool."

i told him, "after your speech at bruce's service the other night, and watching you sing amazing grace, i just want you to know i don't think you are as far from the cross as you think you are..." he grumbled (as he does, he's the great grumbler) and i looked over at his wife and she just nodded and smiled.

as they were leaving, of course i got huge bear hugs from him and i said to his wife, "he is a great guy," she said, "i know. i am blessed." gives me more reason to keep him in prayer, too. he'd be a "great save" for the Kingdom, i know it.

not so far, after all.