For whatever reason when traveling we don't like to stop and ask for directions. For one reason, people you ask don't know where they are, let alone where anything else is. Sad, but true. Even in bike shops, I have been amazed at outside of the two best bike roads, they don't know how to get around. I find they don't even just go for a ride, but now only go to a predetermined biker event. Which have turned into t-shirt conventions, with little more than things to buy for those attending. And even the biker nights now have hot rods and old cars attending. Anything the owners of the diner, drive in, etc . can do to boost revenue they will do. Good points are we all get to mingle, bad sides are, bikers lose interest and go somewhere else, or nowhere at all. We have added to society as needing to be entertained by an organized event.
And it is true that many don't know where to go. It used to be the motorcycle shop was a central point to be involved in motorcycling. You not only bought your bike there, but got it serviced and bought parts for it there, too. You would hang out on rainy mornings, and even sunny ones when you met there to start your ride. You might even have a coffee cup hanging, and chipped in for coffee and donuts. Or bring some from home. No rules, no cars, no t-shirt concessions-but just guys who like to ride hanging out and bench racing before or after the ride. And you wanted to be known there, so you supported your bike shop. And some of the world's greatest problems were solved during discussions, like will the new Suzuki really do 140? Why would anyone ride a Honda? Where's Pete? Is it true he has been looking at BMWs? Or would someone please tell the Harley to park outback, he's ruining our reputation. If you even had one. Serious stuff, yet fun, too. You all rode, yet you all were individuals, and there were bonds that went beyond brands and favorite donuts. And when a stranger came in asking directions, you knew you could instantly get him lost, for what was easy to you, was impossible for him, thanks to your directions. But you often made a new friend, and talked about meeting him for weeks to come. "Hey, remember that guy on the blue Triumph. Was going to Maine, from California. Wonder if he made it? You know it would be easier on my Wing....." And the debate continues.
We like to recognize first time visitors at our church. I make it a point to seek one out afterwards to welcome them. Find out about them, and fellowship. Hopefully encourage them to get involved. But sometimes there are some of us who look a bit, shall we say different. We don't wear ties, in fact we may not wear long pants. Our hair may be long, or we have tattoos. You may be the wrong ethnicity-biker-or have the wrong Bible cover on your Bible. And sadly, some old church folk will shun you. It is sad that prejudice has invaded the church, even sadder we shut the door behind it and won't let it leave. We all have prejudices, and hide them behind legalism. Making rules so we are better than the rest, or at least give the illusion. How many times has God sent someone to your church and has he been not welcomed? He tells us we may have been entertaining angels, and missed blessings.
My charge to you, and myself is to make all welcome. Many love the Lord, or would like to, but because they are different, aren't accepted. Introduce yourself to the older ones, great people to visit with and learn from. Talk to the guys with tattoos, they might love Jesus as much as you, but are prejudiced by those wearing ties, after all it is the rich who throw the poor in jail. Share a donut after with a new brother in Christ, and encourage them. They may need directions, so be ready. We are all a work in process, so aid and abet that process, rather than hinder.
And if a biker shows up with tattoos, a dew rag, and a leather vest, go introduce yourself. You just may be meeting the next Billy Graham, or Pastor Z. God looks on the heart, can we do the same? Maybe that is why fellowships like Calvary Chapel are growing. Why biker churches, and other fellowships thrive with people that no one else would make welcome. And they are changing the world. Don't fall into that sin-welcome all!
And if you show up, look for bikers. We will welcome you no matter what. But a warning to those in ties, we may be wary of you. So lighten up! Note-did Jesus ever wear a tie?
Bench racing is great fellowship for those of us who ride, include it in your church time, too. Just might add a whole new dimension to your church experience, and service. Just imagine, a group of Christians getting together, outside church. Wonder what they may talk about. Hey, did you hear about Bill's sickness. Let's pray. This is my new friend Greg. And this guy, he's my pastor. With Jesus in common, you just may find we have nothing uncommon, except Him.
And if you happen to ride-then you are really cool. Jesus and bikers-it just don't get any better. For when church ends, the ride begins, and sometimes continues. Hey, does anybody know how to get to Figueroa Canyon Road, I read it's a great ride...
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com