God’s Mercies Are New Every Morning

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By: James E. Leary

Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV): “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”

Lamentations may not be the book we instinctively turn to for comfort. Its very name evokes grief and sorrow. Yet, nestled within its lament is a truth so profound it illuminates the darkest of days: God’s mercies are unending, His faithfulness unwavering, and each morning offers a new beginning. What anchors me most is this: His mercies are not recycled or repackaged leftovers from yesterday—they are new every morning. They meet us exactly where we are, no matter how weary or burdened we feel.

Mercy is God’s gift, freely given, but receiving it requires faith. Faith trusts that His mercies are not contingent on our worthiness but flow from His steadfast love. When we believe this, faith shifts from striving to resting—a rest rooted in the assurance that we are already held by God’s favor. For those wrestling with mental health, this truth can be life-altering. Anxiety whispers, “You’re stuck.” Shame hisses, “You’re beyond redemption.” But Lamentations offers a different story: each sunrise is a divine reset. God’s mercy meets us at our lowest and lifts us, one day at a time. I’ve experienced this firsthand in seasons when my faith felt brittle and my mental health fragile. God’s promise of new mercies wasn’t just comforting—it was a lifeline. In ministry, I’ve seen how this truth can shift hearts from hopelessness to hope, even when circumstances remain unchanged.

What would it mean for you to live as though God’s mercies are truly new each morning? Perhaps it’s releasing yesterday’s mistakes or trusting in tomorrow’s provision. Whatever it looks like, let this truth settle deep: God’s mercy renews, restores, and reassures us—every single day. Take a moment to counter negative thoughts with God’s truth. If anxiety whispers, “You’re stuck,” respond with, “God’s mercies are new every morning.” If shame hisses, “You’re beyond redemption,” answer with, “His steadfast love never ceases.” Write these responses down and keep them somewhere visible this week.

Three Takeaways About God’s Mercy

  • God’s Mercy Renews Daily: No matter the challenges or failures you face, each day offers a renewed outpouring of God’s grace and compassion, providing a fresh start free from yesterday’s mistakes or struggles.
  • Faith Receives Mercy, Doesn’t Earn It: God’s mercy is not dependent on your efforts or worthiness but is rooted in His steadfast love. Faith is simply the act of trusting and resting in this truth, allowing you to experience His grace even in your weakest moments.
  • God’s Mercy Brings Mental Health: For those navigating anxiety, depression, or other mental health struggles, God’s mercy offers hope and stability. It combats the lies of hopelessness and shame, reminding you that failure is not final and that healing is possible, one day at a time.

Practical Faith Tip: Start Your Day with God’s Mercy

Each morning, take a moment to remind yourself of Lamentations 3:22-23: “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness.”

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A Professional Driver’s Guide To Understanding ADD (Mental Health Matters)

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By: Lawerence Trayno

When Mike Johnson first realized something wasn’t right, he was halfway through his regular Chicago to Dallas route. The veteran driver had always struggled with paperwork and maintaining focus during long stretches, but he never understood why—until his ADD diagnosis changed everything. “Learning about ADD wasn’t just about understanding my challenges,” Mike shares, “it was about discovering how God had uniquely wired my brain.”

Attention and focus are not just job requirements for professional and commercial truck drivers—they are essential safety tools that protect you and others on the road. While many exceptional drivers have successfully managed their ADD, understanding and addressing this condition is crucial for your safety and career success.

The term attention deficit disorder was coined in the 1970s; only recently has this genetic neurological syndrome been identified and diagnosed within adult populations. Since ADD was mistakenly thought to exclusively afflict only children, this was an extraordinary mental health breakthrough for adults who were previously collectively labeled as lazy, stupid, and oftentimes crazy, according to Harvard Medical School medical editor and author of Confronting Adult ADHD, Martin H. Teicher, MD, PhD. If you have ADD as a professional driver, you are brilliant, creative, and in great company with such historical people like Albert Einstein, George Patton, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Edison, Socrates, and Eleanor Roosevelt.

The starting point for confirming a positive diagnosis includes an evaluation by a doctor or mental health professional. Since a concise definition of ADD does not exist, reliance on symptom descriptions is necessary to come up with a diagnosis. It’s important for the patient to share a detailed personal and medical history. This will allow the medical professional to align that history with the generally accepted symptoms of this condition.

The questions that may be asked are similar to the following:

  • Was I a procrastinator, restless, easily distracted, and struggling to stay organized as a student?
  • Do I struggle to hold a job, follow through, become easily bored, or repeatedly make careless, detail-related mistakes?
  • Do I often break promises and arrive late for deliveries, commitments, and meetings?
  • Do I occasionally say things without thinking and oftentimes get reprimanded for the inappropriateness of my remarks?
  • Do I have a family history of impulsive, addictive, destructive behavior, including depression, PTSD, drug abuse, alcoholism, anger, and dissatisfaction, often resulting in a never-ending search for ways to change how I feel?

Stay tuned for the next two issues to continue learning about this condition and how it affects the trucking community.

Giving Back In A Unique Way

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By: Keith Pontnack

The Pontnack family grew up about 50 miles from the town of Rochelle, Illinois. Keith and his siblings worked a dairy farm and learned the work ethic and pride of a typical Midwest farm family. He attended school through 10th grade but joined the family business on the farm before graduating.

Keith, as part of his job, started driving farm vehicles as did many teens his age. Driving laws at the time allowed him to drive the dairy truck locally before he had a full CDL license. At 21, he could drive on the highway in a low hauler inside the state of Illinois. He recalls having to take a driving test but not having to attend a driving school to get his license.

Once he could drive around the country, his route took him coast to coast. He was lucky to be home at least one day of the weekend for the first 25 years of his career. The last fifteen years of his career he drove locally on a route where he was home most nights. This job was taken so he could join the Teamsters and receive a pension after retirement. So, 42 years of driving and 3 million miles allowed him to see the country and get off the dairy farm.

Keith first met the Lord when a driver friend took him to church. He repented of his sin and prayed to receive Jesus as his Savior. This decision brought about a huge change in his life. It was 38 years into his driving career when he came to know the Lord. Keith immediately felt burdened to share the gospel in some way while he was driving and delivering his loads. He bought his own truck and drove as an independent for 5 years, decorating his truck with crosses and telling drivers over the radio and at stopovers about Jesus. He quickly developed a reputation for his new life as a Christian. He knows without a doubt that he was protected numerous times from accidents.

One of the consequences of his trucking career was the loss of his first marriage due to his unfaithfulness. His second marriage lasted for 37 years before his wife died from cancer. He met his wife Marguerite at church when his pastor played matchmaker. From meeting to marriage, it was six weeks. He counts himself very blessed to have met his wife—they used quick-witted teasing with each other yet were respectful.

Keith has always had a desire to serve God in some way. He helps locally at a mission by hauling furniture for people who are starting over. He does some yard maintenance at the church. But it is his ministry alongside Chaplain Jay LeRette that helps him give back to the community that he spent so many years working in—the trucking community.

Marguerite was the connection between Jay LeRette and Keith. He now drives his 1970 GMC truck, which has the unique patina of rust and orange (all original parts), around the parking lot at the Petro Travel Plaza in Rochelle, Illinois. The side of the truck has a sign that invites people to the nightly Bible study held in the trailer on the Petro property.

Keith thoroughly enjoys listening to drivers—where they are from, their stories from the road, and most importantly, their spiritual needs. The orange truck is a great conversation-starter for drivers to be open to coming into the trailer for the service or to allow Keith to pray for them. Chaplain Jay gently pushes Keith to go out of his comfort zone in doing ministry at the truck stop, even asking him to speak when Jay has to be out of town.

When asked what are the two biggest issues that affect the drivers today, Keith didn’t hesitate:

  1. Driver safety
  2. Poor treatment by some brokers, dispatchers, and depots

In Rochelle, there are many cold storage factories, but most of them don’t have any scales. So, the drivers go to the factory to get their load and then have to come back to the Petro to make sure they are under their weight limit. If they are not, they have to play the game of unloading some—but not too much—cargo and starting their journey. This journey is marked by rushing due to a messed-up time schedule or struggling with fatigue due to an over-scheduled route.

From the orange truck to the voice of experience, Keith reaches drivers, leading them to Jesus using actions AND words.

Building Faith Families

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By: Steve Demme

As I read the Bible each year, I gain new insights. The Word of God is indeed living and active! For many years, I focused on the prodigal son in Luke 15, relating to his journey and his elder brother. Recently, my attention shifted to the father, who prayed and watched for his son’s return. I imagined him running to embrace his disheveled boy, showing a picture of a loving, compassionate dad. I would rename this section “The Faithful Dad.” 

In Nehemiah, I had a similar change in perspective. Nehemiah’s story captivates me yearly. He hears about Israel’s state, prays, and appeals to the emperor. Nehemiah is a wise planner and administrator, committed to Jerusalem’s restoration. Despite the Jews’ quick return to old ways, Nehemiah 9 restores perspective. The inspired prayer in verses 6-38 highlights God’s faithfulness despite the people’s waywardness. 

An example: “They refused to obey and were not mindful of the wonders that you performed among them, but they stiffened their neck and appointed a leader to return to their slavery in Egypt. But You are a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love, and did not forsake them.” 

Even with all the developments, God remains faithful. People obey and disobey, nations come and go, yet He stays the same. He is “a God ready to forgive, gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.” He never changes. 

Nehemiah’s name means “Yah comforts.” “Naham” means comfort, and “iah” signifies God’s name, Yah. In both the Faithful Father in Luke 15 and our gracious God in Nehemiah 9, I see how good and faithful our Dad is. Even when we fall away or repeat mistakes, God never forsakes us. He is faithfully by our side, the same yesterday, today, and forever. Amen! 

Reflecting further on Nehemiah, I am struck by his unwavering dedication. He faced numerous challenges, from external threats to internal strife, yet he remained steadfast. His leadership was not just about rebuilding walls but also about restoring faith and community. Nehemiah’s actions remind me that true leadership involves both vision and compassion. He not only rebuilt a city but also rekindled hope among the people. 

Similarly, the father’s actions in Luke 15 are a profound testament to unconditional love. His willingness to forgive and embrace his wayward son without hesitation is a powerful reminder of God’s grace. This story, coupled with Nehemiah’s narrative, paints a beautiful picture of divine faithfulness and mercy. It reassures me that no matter how far we stray, God is always ready to welcome us back with open arms. 

In conclusion, these biblical accounts have deepened my understanding of God’s unwavering love and faithfulness. They inspire me to trust in His promises and remain steadfast in my faith, knowing that He is always with us, guiding and comforting us through every season of life.

The Perfect Companion for Truckers on Life’s Highway

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By: Scott Fehrenbacher

For Christian truck drivers, music isn’t just background noise—it’s fuel for the soul, a source of encouragement, and a connection to God’s Word while navigating the open road. But traditional Christian radio stations often fall short for those who travel long distances. As you drive across cities, states, or provinces, radio signals fade in and out, leaving frustrating gaps in your listening experience.

Enter Worship Road Radio, a game-changer for truckers who love Christian music and need a reliable, uplifting companion on every mile of their journey. This innovative digital radio station is designed to meet the unique needs of drivers like you, offering an uninterrupted worship experience without the hassles of traditional radio or the expense of subscription services like Sirius XM.

With Worship Road Radio, there’s no such thing as driving out of range. As long as you’ve got internet access—whether through your smartphone, tablet, or truck’s Wi-Fi—you’ll enjoy perfect sound clarity wherever you go. From coast to coast and border to border, Worship Road Radio stays with you, offering continuous worship that lifts your heart and keeps your spirit focused.

Unlike subscription-based services, Worship Road Radio is completely free. That means no monthly fees eating into your budget. But there’s more: the playlists can grow stale. Worship Road Radio keeps things fresh with a mix of familiar favorites and exciting new tracks from up-and-coming Christian artists. It’s like a rolling revival, introducing you to songs and voices you’ve never heard before but will quickly come to love.

Traditional radio often comes with interruptions—ads, fundraising sharathons, and even sermons you weren’t expecting. Worship Road Radio cuts out the noise. Here, it’s all about the music, giving you a distraction-free worship experience that lifts your day and calms your heart no matter what challenges the highway throws your way.

The mission of Worship Road Radio is to provide a space where listeners can focus on worship and the Word through music, building a community connected by faith and song. For truckers navigating long stretches of highway, it’s a lifeline—a constant reminder of God’s presence and promises.

So, how do you tune in? It’s simple. Find and download our free app at the Apple or Google Play Store or visit www.WorshipRoad.com to stream directly from your favorite device. Just press play, and let the music carry you through the miles.

Worship Road Radio is more than a station; it’s a companion on your journey. Sanctuary on wheels, and a way to keep your faith in motion. Join the movement today and experience Christian music like never before, right here on Life’s Highway.

Safe travels and God bless!

Missing My Bud – Mental Health Matters

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By: Lawrence Traynor

“So, Laurie, how are you really doing?” I suddenly and unexpectedly began sobbing uncontrollably as I went ahead to share, finally, with my friend, the truth about how my life was a disaster and that I was on the verge of losing everything. Again, he patiently smiled and graciously went ahead to ask another question. “Are you willing to go to any lengths to get better?” Without hesitation, I responded, “Yes, I’ll do anything, John.” 

He began describing what AA refers to as a ninety and ninety. Ninety AA meetings in ninety days. “Count me in,” I proudly exclaimed before understanding the proposed ninety meetings he referred to as being consecutive, as in a row. At this point, I smiled and said to John, “I don’t think you understand. I’m kind of a big deal.” I desperately tried but failed miserably to share with him my daily, chaotic schedule as a small business. He obviously did not fully understand nor comprehend the notion of me being a big deal. 

Upon being reminded of my earlier commitment to do anything, to go to any lengths to get better, I agreed to move forward with our new strategy. However, I asked that I start my new sober campaign after an upcoming weekend that included a family skiing trip previously planned to Northern Vermont. Again, with a patient smile, John said no and instead strongly suggested that we begin that very day. In reflection, by following John’s advice and suggestion and committing to and doing a ninety and ninety, John saved my life that morning. 

If someone were to ask me what I attribute to thirty-three-plus years of continuous sobriety, I would think of my breakfast with John and not hesitate for a moment to share my simple three-word answer: “Ninety and ninety.” The term sponsor refers to a fellow AA member volunteering to help, oftentimes someone new to the fellowship, navigate membership, answer questions, understand the suggested fundamental tenets and principles of the 12 steps, and offer accountability. An AA sponsor is a sober coach, mentor, and trusted confidant who understands through their own sober journey and personal alcohol-related experience what a new person usually questions, feels, and relates to. 

John helped me understand that AA is not a cult and the difference between religion and spirituality suggesting that religion is thought to be for Christians and non-Christians that are afraid of going to hell. Spirituality, conversely, is for those same Christians and non-Christians who have already been there. In hindsight, I mistakenly chose not to ask John that morning after our breakfast talk to be my AA sponsor. I again attribute my mistaken decision to my adolescent Cub Scout experience and disdain for any and all authority figures. My decision in this regard reinforces and makes clear the notion that ignorance is not bliss but rather very expensive. 

Without the proven guidance and support of a sponsor, it seemed a good idea at this time to declare and inform my co-owner business partners that I was a self-proclaimed alcoholic and would be attending ninety meetings during the next ninety days. Big mistake! With the advisory consultation and aid of kept legal counsel, my partners “invited” me to at once relinquish all existing and future ownership duties and responsibilities. How could I be fired from a company I was part owner of? Given my alcohol-dependence admission, I was now thought unfit to continue further sales and associated marketing efforts. This action led to and after orchestrated a frontal assault on my ego. I still, to this day, nurse a resentment toward a sponsor I never had nor ever existed. When I reluctantly asked and finally obtained a mutually agreed-upon sponsor, he patiently and lovingly helped me navigate life’s future social, business, and personal challenges. He continued to lead by example, walking the talk and offering unbiased guidance upon request based on his unique experience, strength, and hope. 

I kept my commitment to John, attended ninety meetings in ninety days, and, “one day at a time,” and will celebrate thirty-three years (12,000+ days) of continuous sobriety as of January 22nd. Dealing with daily sobriety and life on life’s terms-related events, including but not limited to divorce, bankruptcies, unemployment, cancer, and retirement, my relationship and love for myself, God, family, and others grow and flourishes each day, and no longer do I miss my Bud.

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The Difference One Person Can Make

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Paul Stege Ministries Newsletter Excerpt

Paul Stege is a truck driver who began purchasing Bibles by faith to hand out to other drivers. Large quantity purchases were made when he didn’t know where that money would come from to cover the cost. God has always provided the necessary funds. Once he had the Bibles, he would partner with churches to put stickers (a sticker party) inside the Bibles that contained the message of how to accept Christ as their Savior. 

“We are so blessed each day we live and even more grateful to have celebrated Jesus in December. I love celebrating Jesus! He truly is the reason for the season. We are truly thankful for every person who prayed, labored, and generously gave after being led by the Holy Spirit to do so. It is because of His leading that anything good happens in life. 

Psalm 37:3 says, “Trust in the Lord and do good.” So, we did. At the beginning of the year, January 2024, we felt the Lord showed us that He wanted us to give away 250,000 Bibles. I am happy to announce that with the sticker party on December 15 in Philadelphia and another one scheduled in Bangor, Maine, this mission was completed. A total of 80,000 of our goal was accomplished in the last few months of the year. It has been a wild ride. The Lord was giving me a master class in trusting Him during this grueling time. I am naturally a person who is frugal and likes things completely in my control. I am learning and growing. 

On the opposite page, only the Lord could organize and pull off getting over 9,000 individual Christmas gifts to be consolidated into 700 bags with 11 items per bag and 1,000 extras to boot. The bags are given to rescued border children who have suffered all kinds of trauma. An organization called Breaking Boundaries received our bags and distributed them to the children. It took 4 churches, 1 ministry, and 2 trucking companies to accomplish this task over 3 different states. 

Thanks to Calvary Chapels of Bangor, Maine, Chester Springs, Pennsylvania, and Honey Brook, Pennsylvania, Magnolia Bible Church, Paul Stege Ministries, Sibley Transportation, and STBI to come together in the unity of the Spirit. Each bag contained: crayons, coloring books, brushes, Uno card games, Spanish Bibles, hair scrunchies, journals, socks, stuffed animals, blankets, and Match Box cars. Thank you, Jesus, for allowing all of this to happen!”

Don’t Carry the Load Alone!

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By: James E. Leary

As a regular reader of Highway News, you know what it’s like to carry a heavy load on the road and in life. Whether it’s the long stretches of highway, time away from loved ones, or the pressures of meeting deadlines, the weight can be overwhelming. In these moments, much like Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane, we face our own crossroads.

In that quiet, dark garden, Jesus knelt under the weight of something far heavier than anything we can imagine. He wasn’t just preparing for the physical pain of the cross; He was carrying the weight of the world’s sin on His shoulders. His heart was full of sorrow, so much so that He told His disciples, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38). It was a moment of profound agony. He could have chosen to walk away from that suffering, to avoid the pain, but He stayed. He stayed for us.

There’s a lesson for every trucker, for every person facing something hard and heavy in life. You may not be carrying a cross, but the road ahead might feel just as tough. You might be away from home, tired, and wondering why you have to keep going. Jesus faced that choice in Gethsemane—to go forward into suffering or to turn back. And He chose to go forward. Not because it was easy, but because it had a purpose. He showed us that even in the hardest moments, there’s a reason to keep moving forward.

We all have our Gethsemane moments. Maybe for you, it’s a tough haul across the country, dealing with bad weather, or struggling to keep your eyes open during a long shift. Maybe it’s a family issue back home that’s weighing on you while you’re miles away. In those times, it’s tempting to turn away, to take the easy route. But Jesus showed us a different way. He knelt and prayed, “Not my will, but Yours be done” (Luke 22:42). That’s a hard prayer, especially when the load feels too heavy to bear. But it’s in that surrender that we find strength and purpose.

Look at Job. He lost everything his family, his health, his livelihood. In the ashes of his life, he could have given up. But instead, he chose to trust God, even when he didn’t understand. “Though He slay me, yet will I hope in Him” (Job 13:15), Job said. His faith wasn’t in his circumstances; it was in his Creator. And in the end, Job didn’t just get his old life back – he gained something deeper, a closer relationship with God.

As a trucker, you know about the long haul. Sometimes, the toughest stretches of the road are the ones that teach us the most. It’s the same with life. Our Gethsemane moments the times when we feel like we can’t go on—are not the end. They’re the beginning of something greater. “In all things God works for the good of those who love Him” (Romans 8:28). Even when we don’t see it, God is working in our lives, shaping us, helping us grow stronger, and drawing us closer to Him.

The road isn’t always easy. There will be dark nights and lonely miles. But Jesus showed us the way. He showed us that when we choose to trust God’s plan, even in the darkest moments, we’ll find the light waiting for us on the other side. So, the next time you’re out on the road, feeling the weight of the load you’re carrying, remember Gethsemane. Remember that the hardest roads often lead to the most beautiful destinations. Keep going, keep trusting, and know that God has a purpose for you, even in the hardest moments.

Zeal on Wheels

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By: Darin Burt

Fred Rethwisch is a name quickly becoming synonymous with innovation and dedication in the truck restoration world. His knowledge of vintage trucks, creative talents, and boundless enthusiasm rival that of enthusiasts who’ve spent decades in the hobby. The most surprising part? Fred is only 12 years old.

Fred’s journey into transforming a 1986 International 9670 Cabover is a testament to determination and overcoming expectations. Despite muscular dystrophy (MD) affecting his arms and legs, Fred is deeply involved in every aspect of the restoration, designing much of the plan himself.

“I’ve been around trucks and trucking my whole life.”

Fred took inspiration from his father, Bill, who had rebuilt and customized a 2013 Peterbilt 389 and matching Polar tanker that had already won awards on the truck show circuit. Choosing a cabover model was a personal decision for Fred and a notable departure from the usual fleet of custom Peterbilt 389s at Rethwisch Transport, a petroleum hauler based in Tomah, Wisconsin. After a four-month search, Fred found a truck he liked on Facebook Marketplace. He and his dad flew out the next day, and luckily, the truck was still available.

“I always thought International cabovers were cool. I looked and looked until I found this one, and I fell in love with it,” Fred says.

The restoration process began last December, with a goal to complete it in just five to six months. “The vision came from Fred. We just all worked with him. We were all just subcontractors doing what the general contractor wanted,” Bill explained.

Initially, the truck appeared to be in good condition. However, as Fred and his team began dismantling it, numerous hidden issues emerged. The truck had previously rolled over lightly, leading to extensive Bondo repairs that masked deeper damage. The entire side panel was curved in, and the handlebar mounting area required a makeshift two-by-two plate for support due to the lack of proper mounting space.

Finding replacement panels proved impossible, necessitating a rebuild of many parts from scratch. The front driver’s side corner also showed signs of damage, likely from a flatbed collision.

Fred and his team removed and replaced numerous panels. Customization and chroming were integral parts of the project, featuring dual DynaFlex chrome straight exhaust stacks, custom half fenders, Alcoa small hole aluminum rims, and a 12-gauge steel T-shaped bumper with 11 of Fred’s favorite glass watermelon lights. They also chromed the steps, grill, and many interior pieces for easier maintenance and showtime readiness.

Fred’s ability to weld and grind the truck’s frame while seated on his scooter is truly remarkable, considering his condition. He covers his legs with welding jackets for protection, demonstrating a level of ingenuity and resilience that is inspiring. With the help of a magnetic drill for precise work, Fred ensures that every detail of the truck meets his exacting standards.

Fred’s confidence and knowledge quickly dispelled any doubts vendors had when he contacted them for parts. “We wanted the truck to have a show-quality finish, so we incorporated a lot of chrome and stainless steel. It really makes the truck pop, giving it a sleek, modern look while respecting its roots. I’m pretty picky about my truck. I just want it to be perfect,” Fred explained.

The truck was originally dull black with faded pinstripes, a testament to prolonged sun exposure. Fred opted for a new glossy black and orange theme to give it a unique and striking look. This decision was influenced by his desire to make the truck a standout piece at shows.

One of the biggest challenges was getting the Caterpillar 6NZ single-turbo engine, enhanced by Performance Diesel Inc. (PDI), to work with the 6-speed Allison automatic transmission. The wrong harness prevented proper communication. Luckily PDI had another truck with the same issue, and swapping harnesses solved the problem.

A standout custom feature is the passenger-side fake fuel tank with a sliding shelf, an idea Fred and a friend devised. This modification allows Fred to transport his scooter easily, showcasing his creative problem-solving skills and innovative spirit. Other adaptive modifications to accommodate Fred’s muscular dystrophy include an automatic transmission, disc brakes, and an electronic engine, making it easier for him to drive despite his limited mobility. He handles it like an old pro. “It rides like a brand new truck,” Fred says, noting that the addition of airbags on the back of the cab helps smooth out the bumps.

The response from show attendees has been overwhelmingly positive, with many admiring the meticulous details and custom features. A long list of awards includes Best Exterior, Engine, and Presenter, plus Best of Show and People’s Choice at the DynaFlex Truck in Ventura, California, and Best of Show (Limited Mileage Bobtail) at the prestigious Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS).

Bill has set high standards with his impressive builds, and Fred aims to continue that legacy and create big rigs that make a unique statement. In addition to his own projects, Fred is actively helping his older brother, Luke, restore a 1987 Peterbilt 359. The Rethwisch family’s travels with their truck have taken them across the country, from Reno to Ontario, Canada, to the 2024 ATHS National Convention and Truck Show in York, Pennsylvania.

Closer to home, Fred was invited back to his old elementary school to showcase his truck at a Transportation Day event. Students saw his unique, customized vehicle up close, offering a hands-on learning experience, and demonstrating what a dedicated kid can accomplish.

As the Rethwisch family continues to attend truck shows and participate in ATHS events, they inspire enthusiasts of ALL ages and prove that passion and determination can overcome any challenge. Fred’s story demonstrates the value of perseverance and the pride that goes along with being part of a community that shares a passion for trucks.

Navigating Life’s Darkest Moments

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By: James Leary

Life on the road has its share of long nights and heavy burdens. I’ve spent enough time on the highway to know that solitude can make a man confront things he’d rather leave buried. It’s a place where the mind is left alone with its thoughts, with nothing but the distant horizon and the weight of what’s waiting back home.

I remember a particular morning when I received an urgent call. A man from our church needed a ride to a hospital in Philadelphia. He was new to our congregation and had recently shared that he was living on borrowed time—cancer had given him no more than a year. As we drove through the early morning light, he opened up about his struggles from the night before.

He talked about the fear that had gripped him as he thought about his family. He knew his time was running out, and the thought of leaving his loved ones behind tore at his heart. He wasn’t just a man facing the end of his days; he was a father, a husband, someone whose life was intertwined with those he loved. He told me how he had spent the night in prayer, grappling with the reality that soon, he wouldn’t be there to provide, protect, or guide.

He spoke of a moment when it felt like God was speaking directly to him. It wasn’t an audible voice, but a question that resonated deep in his soul: “Can you care for them better than me?” It was a simple question, yet it cut through all his fears and doubts. In that moment, he realized that he couldn’t. No matter how much he loved his family, no matter how much he wanted to stay, he had to trust that God could care for them better than he ever could.

As he told me this, I could see the peace that had settled over him. It wasn’t a peace that came from having all the answers or knowing what the future held. It was the kind of peace that comes when a man finally surrenders to something greater than himself. I have come to refer to this as his “Gethsemane moment.” It was a turning point, a moment when he let go of his will and placed everything in God’s hands. I’ve thought about that conversation many times since then. My friend passed away a few months later, and I had the honor of leading his memorial service. Standing before his family and friends, I shared the story of that drive to Philadelphia and the peace he had found in the midst of his storm. It was a reminder to all of us that there are moments in life when we face our own Gethsemane—moments of deep crisis where we have to choose between holding on to our fears or letting go and trusting in God’s care.

For everyone who spends days and nights on the road, those moments can hit hard. You carry more than just freight; you carry the weight of your worries, your fears, and the people you leave behind. The highway can be a lonely place, a place where you are left to your thoughts and the reality of your mortality. But it can also be a place where you find your own Gethsemane moment, where you are forced to confront the things that matter most and make peace with the things you can’t control.

We are used to navigating the road ahead, but there are some roads that we can’t travel alone. There are burdens too heavy for us to carry by ourselves, fears that we can’t outrun no matter how many miles we put behind us. But in those moments of crisis, we’re given a choice: to keep fighting on our own or to surrender to the one who can carry the load for us.

My friend found peace in his Gethsemane moment, not because he found a way to beat the cancer or because he knew what the future held for his family. He found peace because he realized that there was someone who could care for his loved ones better than he ever could. It’s a lesson for all of us, whether we’re facing a life-threatening illness or just the daily grind of the road. There’s a peace that comes when we let go of our fears and trust in God’s care. So the next time you’re out there on the highway, alone with your thoughts and the weight of the world on your shoulders, remember that you don’t have to carry it all by yourself. There’s a peace waiting for you in your own Gethsemane moment, a peace that comes when you let go and trust that God can handle whatever you’re facing—better than you ever could.

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We exist to evangelize, educate and equip members of the trucking community and their families to help them grow in their faith.

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Phone: 717-426-9977

Email: info@tfcglobal.org

Address: 1525 River Rd, Marietta, PA, 17547

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