dad, I think we need to rethink my Christmas present again...

Theresa and I are still recovering from Saturday night at Calvary Chapel Escondido and our annual Harvest Celebration. a safe, fun, and crowded alternative to Halloween, we again had thousands from the community come for a night of free games, candy, fellowship, and to visit our motorcycles. For the eighth year we brought our bikes down for kids and adults to sit on, rev the motors,and enjoy. From 19 months to well into their 70's, our group of men, women, and children showed what fun motorcycles are, and watched as kids brought their parents, and husbands brought their wives. And found out how that Jesus and motorcycles are a perfect match.

But one woman, reminded me that the two most misunderstood people on earth are Christians and bikers, and I just happen to be a Christian biker-double whammy! As she stood by-talking on her cell phone, glaring at her son, while motioning to get off, who was sitting on Woody's Gold Wing-now there is an outlaw bike, I took the opportunity between her phone calls to ask her if she would like to sit on one with her son. "I hate motorcycles," she told me. And went on to tell me all the usual reasons-lies, excuses, and gossip. Three perfect characteristics of the chronic cell phone addict. I didn't respond-these types are too narrowly focused on themselves to hear, but this is what I would have said.

It is true, we lane split. The CHP advocates it. And my first question is, why would you want to get into a 15mpg mini van, after a stressful day at work, and talk on your cell phone-illegally, Miss Safety Advocate, and spend the next 45 minutes stressed out in traffic? When I can get home in half the time, not stressed, or even better, take the long way home-by choice, and arrive relaxed and happy? And with kids in the car, don't you think time well spent is talking to them, instead of gossiping on the phone, while parking your kids in front of a DVD screen? With the only conversation telling them to shut up, so you can hear? Health food for you, drive thru Mickey D for them. And yes, cars are dangerous. I got hit last year by two women who weren't paying attention to driving, hit anyone lately? Don't worry, your selfish actions will cause damage, or may have-you just don't hear about it.

But right next to you, was a ten year old boy, writing a prayer request in our book. For his mom, who is in a wheelchair. Bone disease, and needed prayer-do you think she would interrupt your precious phone call? She didn't have to interrupt us-we went to her, with her son, and prayed with them. To us trendy is serving, while we ride, or in between rides. Oh, and we served that night, and many others, as couples, husband and wife. When is the last time you ministered like that? Or with your kids? Those of us who ride are a big family. And a happy one-did you ever see a motorcycle parked in front of your psychiatrist's office? Riding with Jesus is our drug of choice.

Why are children attracted to bikes? They see the fun, the challenge, the adventure. And they get shown respect-how often do you show respect to others who don't share your viewpoint? Or hairdresser? Or church? I could go on, but you get the point.

And unlike the good church goer who only invites people to church, so the pastor can do his job of getting them saved, we go into the biker world, and others, taking the love of Jesus to them. Showing love and compassion to those hurting and less fortunate. Via toy runs, biker rallies, and fund raisers, I have found it true that if you have a problem, call a biker. We call it respect, and it is earned. And shared among our brotherhood. Jesus calls it the gospel.

That is what I would have said, only because she rudely denied our invitation. But it hard hearted people like that we continue to pray for. And will ask you again how we can serve them, and maybe ask their designer jeans to grace the seat of our bikes. And we hope they say yes-for a whole world is inviting you to be part of it. Where truth, brotherhood, and respect is found-and on two wheels. Freedom you can't explain, but want to share. And it is only found in Jesus. Two wheels is just one of the ways-and I think the best way to get there.

Bikers and Christians will always be looked down on-it's the freedom we have that the world can't handle. Wind in your face, and the road your home-exciting. and with Jesus to guide you, how can it get any better?

Maybe if you hang up, we can show you. As for now, it is only the cool who ride, and even the cooler who know Jesus. Ask your son, maybe the smile on his face while sitting on Woody's bike says more about us than it does about you. Ask Ethan, and is that maybe a smile on Miles' face? One smile the product of truth, the frown, the product of error. Your choice, as for me and my family we will ride-with Jesus!

Perhaps Pastor Josh's son, Jacob said it best. While twisting the grips of the motorcycle he was sitting on said, "Dad, I think we need to rethink my Christmas present this year!" Out of the mouth of babes-a biker is born-again!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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time-it keeps on ticking and takes a licking

It has been noted that as we get older, time seems to fly by faster. I used to think that maybe it was the time going faster, but now I am beginning to realize it is me getting slower. Some things about time haven't changed, but I have. Things that don't change-there are still only 24 hours in a day, and 144 in a week. If you sleep seven hours a day, you sleep a full two days a week. If you work a normal 50 hour work week, you spent another two days. And leaves you with only three days left in the week to catch up on the important things in life, like God and riding. And your family. And a good way to combine all of them is to ride to church with them. Only 90 minutes out of your week-but time we find so preciously unavailable.

Years ago I knew a man who worked for the Sweetwater School District. They had an incredible vacation plan, and after a few years on the job, got three weeks off. And they had 14 paid holidays off each year, including one of your choice. He laughed when they told him Valentines Day was one of the 14, he didn't have to use it for his personal day. Which left him working only 47 weeks a year, and getting paid for 52. Such a deal, sign me up-add in early retirement at 55, with full pension, and I'd be there. Except that...

Prisoners in the state of California get one day off their sentence for each day served. You can actually be guilty of manslaughter, get a seven years sentence for killing someone, and be out in 3 1/2 years on good behavior. About half the time it takes to get through college. And if you go to college while in prison-online, you can achieve both in record time. Who says crime doesn't pay? Maybe it's the hours, but that's another topic.

The fact is that time is the only true finite commodity, even in California where it used to be land, but with the big one coming, and people rushing to buy oceanfront property in Yuma, even that is shrinking. So time is the only finite commodity, and it is ticking fast. So maybe we should look at how we use it, to get the most out of it.

We have always left on vacations on a Friday night. It is easy to ride 300-350 miles after getting home, and it gives you another day on the road, unlike those who get a head start leaving at 2am the next morning. I never did get that. And who are worn out by noon. I like starting fresh that first Saturday, away from home, and have never had a vacation that started too early, just ones that ended too soon. And in California, we don't have three day weekends, we have four or five day weekends, as if you have the next Monday off, you are out of town Thursday. To beat the crowds, which are all on the road with you doing the same thing. But it is still time off. Yes-we do have three day weekends, they are just a normal two day with Friday afternoon off early, like about 10am in the morning.

And a few years ago a friend, who I now have no respect for, made fun of me for counting the days until our next trip. When I reminded him of only 28 days left until I left , he said "yeah, but only 45 until you get back." And of course, the great countdown began. And it always seems on the last Thursday off, you start to get back into your work mode. You remember the things you need to do at home, and the catching up at work-true, no one will ever do your job as well as you. And you begin to internally melt down, and lose a great California four day weekend as far as time goes.

There is a difference between waiting and delaying. I wait for Christmas, but nothing I can do will delay it. What day is it on this year? Same as last, the 25th. Not so easy with Thanksgiving. But yet our minds hurry as the vacation, or holiday approaches, and we don't enjoy it-they pass too fast. So some of the best advice I ever got was simply put-Jesus never hurried. He was never early, never late, always on time. And never had the stress we put on ourselves. He tells us to enjoy everyday, don't worry abut tomorrow, for it has problems of its own. But how many worry about this weekend, and end up messing up Friday?

On trips, some delays, have turned into blessings. While other times rushing got me into a situation where I had to wait. Sometimes you just can't win. But trusting God, you can win every time. You may get behind a slow old truck on a country road, but get to see what you might have missed at a faster speed. The beltways don't always save time, everyone takes them, and that is where the traffic jams first. Sometimes just pulling over and having a Coke and watching the traffic is the best way to spend a half hour-better than wearing out your clutch hand in traffic.

So trust God, don't hurry, and enjoy life more. You may even sleep better, but not necessarily more. You get to see things from His perspective, and spend time with Him-always a good thing. Jesus loves to ride, and on any road with you. But He also knows some great back roads, some neat cafes, and provides the time you need. Time with Him is like a day off-a better deal than even the school district. Everyday can be a holiday, and you cannot beat His retirement program.

Remember the beginning of Easy Rider, where Wyatt threw away his watch? I don't wear one either, so I'm never late. But don't wait to come to Jesus. You never know what tomorrow brings, and you may be wasting a special road with a special person. There will be no watches in eternity-I think I may have gotten a head start. No lines either, and everyday is today.

It is almost like my wish coming true-I wish there were only two days in the year, Christmas and Saturday. So enjoy the time you have-with Jesus, and watch as everyday is Christmas, and you get to ride every Saturday. Let's see, 365 days in a year, 183 Saturdays, that six months-of riding! Every year! I wonder, does Valentines Day still count as a holiday if it falls on a Saturday? So be ready like Ted. You never know when the weekend will strike.

Jesus is waiting for you-don't delay!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

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first aid for, and from the heart

Having never been in a tornado before, when the sirens went off that night in Red Wing, we had a clue, but until Theresa confirmed it with the desk clerk we weren't sure. Or sure what to do. I knew I didn't want to lay in the bath tub with a mattress over me, so we were advised to go to the lowest part of the building, where we met other guests. One older couple, retired Minnesota farmers, were there. He waited patiently, as he said they mostly pass. She worried patiently, just to make sure it did. And in the midst of a thunder storm that lasted for five hours, we all stood in the hall of a basement for a half hour, while the loud sirens continued to blast away. Fortunately no tornadoes, but I think my hearing was affected. Could you repeat the question please?

Now as foolish as it may seem afterward, the warnings were there, and we would have been even more foolish not to heed them and ended up in Munchkinland, or worse. But even before the sirens blew, we had been in prayer, like thousands others, about the storm. Not knowing if or when, we went to God, and found comfort. Never a bad thing, and it should always be the first thing.

A few days ago I forwarded a prayer request from a friend about a little boy who had stapled his heart by accident, and to pray for him and his mother. Via prayer chain. Which so many of you did-my thanks. I am careful to send forwards, as I get many prayer requests each day, and although I amen or pray for them, don't wish to overburden you, and get an important forward dumped, thinking "oh no, not him again." And my response to this one was overwhelming. And I wish to make this the only answer I have to date. I don't know-I never heard back. But a few things I did hear in response to my request bothered me. A few well meaning people, forwarded me a response that this was a hoax based on a Snopes investigation. And although it may be true, I wonder about those that run to Snopes first instead of God. God knows more, even the false claims, but I have found even a quick prayer ends in thanks, never a bad thing to God. It's called worship. And it leads to other prayer, and others praying. You see, scripture tells us that one day in his house is better than thousands elsewhere. And all things, work to good to those who love God. It also tells us a lot about a caregivers, or prayer givers heart. They seek God first, because they know Him well, and don't have to research Him. They know Him, and go to Him first. They don't have to ask, "what would Jesus do,"they know. And they don't have to ask Snopes. It's called love and trust-which go hand in hand.

I checked a Snopes report forwarded to me for the first time last week. And found that what Snopes said was slightly skewed from what was told to me, to politicize their opinion-beware-people that use scripture or twist truths for their own agenda. You can never go wrong with God, and even though we may occasionally ask in vain, God never hears in vain-He only hears one of His children calling out to Him. And what loving parent doesn't love to hear his child's voice on the other end of the line?

And one other interesting note-the same people that always quote Snopes to me, very rarely do I find my prayer requests on their prayer lists. But I always seem to get theirs on mine. Makes me wonder, what does Snopes say about me?

So, if you are one who must right click to find truth, I heartily recommend Jesus instead. He offers more than insight, or opinion. He offers truth. And salvation. Something legalism cannot do for you. Nothing the law could ever offer. Right click that one. And while you are at it, see what Snopes has to say about Jesus? And John 3:16. And let me know.

Keep us in prayer, and if I hear anything about this little boy and his mom, I will forward it. As for now, you did right in going to God-think of it as FIRST aid, never stop, as He advises to pray without ceasing. It tells me a lot about who Jesus is in your life, and may be the testimony that wins others to Christ-your kind and thoughtful words expressed in love. For the rest of you, hang up the phone, and call upon Jesus.

Sent from my heart, not my i-phone.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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the ride of your life

It's late October in 1959, and the first frost heaves have graced the season. You haven't ridden for a week, and can't wait to get out on your new Bonneville to see the colors changing this weekend. 650cc of power, and with dual carbs can take you to over 100mph, you are excited. As you sit on the bike, turn on the key, and tickle the carbs, the smell of premium fills the garage, and soaks your boots-the ones your new wife says "stay outside". Kicking it through to free the clutch, you get it started on the second kick, and as it settles into a lumpy idle, your right foot pushes the shifter down, you let out the clutch, and accelerate through the four gears-knowing the drum brakes will haul you down when you need to stop. And life can't get any better!

It's spring of 1969, and the Honda dealer called-your new CB 750 is in. So taking off work early, you get there helmet in hand that afternoon. 750cc! Wow! 60 horsepower, and the magazines have seen them do over 100mph and less than 13 seconds in the quarter! A full second and a half faster than your old Bonne! How can you hang on? So after pretending to listen to the salesman tell you about the OHC engine, the powerful front disc brake, and Honda engineering-you can't wait any more. You lift the choke, that activates all four carbs, push the starter, and the sweet sound of four exhaust pipes comes to life. Adjusting the mirrors, you nervously go into first, then through fourth, forgetting momentarily about fifth, and as you see the speedo approach 80, back off-grabbing the front disc lightly so as to not go over the handlebars. And life can't get any better!

You've had your 1978 Suzuki GS 1000 for a month now, and can't believe the bike. It is faster than anything else on the planet, runs consistent mid-11 seconds in the quarter, and will go over 140mph! In stock form! And has twin front discs, and one on the rear-it even stops from those speeds! And after pushing the starter, the only problem is waiting for the bike to warm up-it has new EPA mandated, non-adjustable carbs, and takes forever to warm up. But the wait is worth it, and the rush when accelerating, and braking is worthwhile. Wait until I get a Yosh pipe on this! This is the same bike Wes Cooley won the Superbike Championship on-and life can't get any better.

It's a summer evening in 2009, and you are waiting for your grandson to come over on his new 2009 GSX-R 1000. 1000cc, almost 200hp, and even the slow ones have been into the nines in the quarter. You are concerned for his safety-this thing is faster than any race bike when you were growing up. And as he pulls in, it takes over the garage. With full fairings, rear set pegs, and ground effects, it looks like the 180mph motorcycle it is. Radial brakes that allow stoppies, and radial tires to increase the handling, and a fuel management system to control all the power. Pulling off his full face Arai, the grin he has is ear to ear. "Wanna take it for a ride Grandpa?" And as you carefully pull out of the driveway onto the street, you have the same grin inside your helmet, masking the fear of all this power. And as he pulls up next to you at the first light, you look over at him on your GS 1000, and realize-life just can't get any better.

And for you, as you learn to ride the new bike, he has to remember how to ride the old bike. Power, brakes, and handling have come so far in 30+ years-but the fun of riding a new motorcycle will always exist. And although you are called "Old School," you don't mind, as the film in your memory vault of riding memories has another chapter to enter, even today. 50 years of riding, and it is still as much fun as it was 50 years ago. Technology hasn't added a thing, or taken away anything either-twisting the throttle still opens up the fun zone-just much faster now than then. And it's a good thing brakes have gotten better too!

A life in Christ is like that, too. Each year gets better, and although the challenges will always be there, so will God-and so He has been. He never changes, and unlike the improvements on your new bikes, He started out the best and stayed that way. He always starts on the first kick, and stops just in time. He runs smoother than anything on two wheels, yet when the throttle of life in Him is opened, always delivers more excitement than expected. And after all the years, the same joy is there that was there that first time you asked Him into your life.

And like your riding, their have been rough roads, and bad weather. You needed some maintenance in your life that was not expected, and sometimes didn't brake soon enough when the signs said to. And even though you may have strayed, your old friend God was always there to welcome you back-open arms. In springtime, you celebrated with Him as life was ahead of you, in summer enjoyed the good times, and in fall enjoyed looking back. Now it's winter, and although the weather is cold, He is still keeping your heart warm.

Today, get out your old bike, and go for a ride. Put your film vault on good times, and as you ride remember all He has done for you. And as you ride, anticipate the good times yet to come. Each season, like each new bike, has its own blessings. Let Jesus be a part of all of them-and never ride alone. So many roads, so little time-and so much Jesus to enjoy!

And life just can't get any better!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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leader of the pack

Some guys are fast, and then there are those who go fast. My friend Bouke was fast, it came natural to him. He had an uncanny knack to get the most out of any motorcycle he was riding, whether on the street or on the track. Those who he beat on the track thought he was crazy, and those on the street thought he was nuts-what he was, was good. Consistently good.

He raced flat track, back in Pennsylvania, in the years before moto-x, where real men wore steel shoes, and turned left, who rode motorcycles with no front brakes, and when they could find the occasional TT, would do it with jumps and left turns thrown in. He would also race 1/4 miles, and on the occasion when he was beat, would sell his bike and build another. This being the early seventies, he rode anything from Bonnevilles on the track, to Mach IV, then up to the Z-1! And where the rest of us would have been happy just to ride one, he would hot rod each one, making it that much faster than anything else. Maybe he was crazy, but he was also fun crazy.

We would ride with him, and of course when the road opened up, so did his throttle. He was a local legend, and when the three of us got busted for going 111mph, the NJ State Police Captain only gave us tickets for improper registration, based on the fact Bouke had no license-in his other pants, and the plate on his Z-1 was from another Triumph, that now had a Trackmaster frame and was only used for the track. But the cop was impressed with how we rode at that speed, and how he could now brag about giving a ticket to Bouke.

He was so well known, that when we had a Big Mac attack, and rode by the local McD's, the lot of SS396, Boss Mustangs, and Road Runners would clear out-just in case he challenged them, and they knew he would embarrass them. He also had fast cars, and he was the legend who drove his 1962 Corvette through the Grand Union when the brakes failed-truth be told it was to much speed and too short a distance.

Also he was a local, and once when the three of us, me and him and his old lady rode to Scranton, about 300 miles round trip, he thought I was nuts. And he never could understand how we had ridden from Florida to NJ, and he thought we were crazy. Too each his own. Somehow we kept him honest with distance rides-he was always more interested in mph than miles per day.

As people got to know us as his riding buddies, and his friend, their attitudes changed towards us. Some would show respect, but others would challenge us. Just being known in the same context as him changed us. And the perception the riding world had of us. The cops already were an adversary...

When I first got saved, I was going to change the world, until I failed miserably trying to do it myself. Once I learned it was God that built the church body, I quit doing it, and tried to concentrate on what he wanted me to do. and as life got simpler, it also became more fun and challenging at the same time. He doesn't give us more than we can handle to do, and equips us to do His will. His success is based on obedience rather than volume, you might say one good deed He asks is better than a dozen trying to impress Him. I mean, what can you do to impress the creator of the universe?

I also find I work much better in the background, where I can do God's will without attracting attention to me. I still laugh-although it isn't funny, when I hear of a celebrity coming to Jesus, and he wants to change the world. Only when he remembers it was Jesus who changed the world, does he grow in Christ. No book tours, TV appearances, or celebrity recognition can get you closer to God-in fact they will only hinder your walk. and thus the attrition rate is high-it is all about Him-not all about you! And only as you realize life is an endurance race, rather than a sprint, do you alter your speeds, and your attitudes. And as you let Jesus be Lord, then do you enjoy all the things god has for you, and you are able to minister more effectively.

You see, the riding community thought it was by association with Bouke that made us cool, and I will admit it helped. But the true desire to ride was there long before he ever entered the scene. The church may think you are a good brother or sister, but only God knows your heart-remember it was Him that changed it, so why don't you try to please Him in obedience rather than the person next to you next Sunday. Just show them love-that is what impresses God, and also will impress them. Remember it is the truth that sets you free, not the perception of Christ in you.

Last I heard, people still talk of Bouke, some 40 years later. A legend, but there is always someone faster who will come along. Records are made to be broken, and legends made to be challenged. Jesus Christ is the truth-the way-and the life. Record-perfection, here and in heaven. Truth-some has challenged, and all have failed. Next time you feel Christ like, pick up some nine inch nails, find a cross, and give us a call. Jesus did His best work on the cross-suddenly the rest of us are so insignificant.

Look to the cross-and you will find you don't look so often in your rear view mirrors. Set your sights on things on high, and follow the truth-not the legend. And you'll appear to be careless to a dying world, when what you really are is carefree in the spirit!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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it could never happen to us, could it?

Just a short generation ago, Made In America meant something. And where you bought it did too, and Sears was the largest retailer in the US of A. And had been for many generations. Outliving its main competitors, Woolworth on the lower end, and Montgomery Wards-or Monkey Wards as it was affectionately known, they sold high quality products, at a fair price. Very rarely discounting. And for almost 70 years were the mainstay of quality in America. True, the vacuum they sold you may only last 20 years before they could sell you another, but you told your friends and family, who would shop there, and more than made up for the many you buy now in the same 20 year period. Repeat customers, who bought other items, not the same one over and over. Craftsman tools-still guaranteed for life, and if you find an old broken, rusty one at a flea market, buy it-and then they will replace it for free-still! Tools that would not wear out after the first two uses due to substandard standards in the third world country they were built in. Made for life, not just to complete the job at hand. And long before they boxes showed Made In America, they showed cities in the states where they were made, by people who bought local, long before all the money went overseas, to some nameless corporation that you couldn't pronounce. Shoes made with pride in New England factories. Sheets and towels made in the Carolinas-remember Dan River? Clothes made in small towns throughout the northeast, in mills manned by women like my Nana. Pride sewn into each garment, as it had her name on it. Cotton from the south, and plastics from Delaware, we never had to go out of our country for anything-for God had shed His grace on us from the iron mines in Michigan to the cotton fields in the south. Cars manufactured in Detroit, assembled from parts made in places like Muncie, Tonowanda, Meridian, and Saginaw. Designed, engineered, and built in America. And parked in the garages of homes, where the lumber came from US forests in the northwest. Watching TV sets made in places like Indianapolis, Chicago, and even Los Angeles. Instructions that came in English, and phones answered at the stores by a person, who would direct your call-not some choice by a computer. A person, who cared, and if couldn't help, got you someone who could-and would.

And as I travel the great US of A, I see these same cities now in ruin. The factories gone, the jobs overseas. Where the mills were, now are warehouses full of off shore products. And sadly, the only thing we cannot import, and don't, are jobs, to replace the ones we sent out of the United States, all because it could be done cheaper-but never better. Built to a price, instead of a standard, until price became the standard. And Wal-mart, who once bragged about selling Made in the USA products, became a leisure activity of China. Lower your price, and you have to lower your standards, just to be competitive and stay in business. And when you start to compromise, where do you stop?

And we watch today as a company's stock rises due to high profits, saving money by not hiring people. Or moving to Mexico where SONY pays people 80 cents an hour to build big screen TV's. We have truly lost our way-and truly, the love of money is proving to be the root of all evil. I rather pay too much than too often.

Ever since the beginning, God has had a consistent quality-love. And perfection, one that He desires, but without Jesus in our lives we can never attain. And He chose to market that through His family, His believers. And they were found in local churches, in congregations who used to make pasties for the mill workers. women who would sew, knit, and crochet for the less fortunate. Food pantries for the hungry, and wise counsel for the hurting. And not just in churches, but from public officials, before the freedom of religion became freedom from religion. When sorry meant repenting of sin, rather than saying sorry because they got caught. Where character counted, and towns got together to pray, to support each other, and to console those who were hurting. Where if one was hurt, we all felt it-but when one rejoiced, we all celebrated also.

But sadly, when God was removed from schools, they went in the toilet. When the Ten Commandments are removed from a court, the justice suffers. And just like a town that loses its factory, the people slip into poverty-except it is a moral poverty, one harder to escape from then anything financial.

Today I encourage you to take the advice of Jesus. Feed one who is hungry. Visit one who is sick. Write to an inmate. Give a drink to one who is thirsty. And welcome a stranger, make them feel welcome in your neighborhood, church, or your home. Jesus said "whoever does this to the least of these, does it to me." Take care of needs here, before we have missionaries to the US of A, because we have exported all of our ministries off shore. Shop local, live local, love and minister local. For just as a man who doesn't care for his family is worse than an infidel, those who don't accept the call here, may have a long wait before it comes from another place. We will have become the infidels. Do you see China or India exporting missionaries to us? Did you ever think Hyundai would make a luxury car?

But by then it will be too expensive, no matter the price. For now, the only thing you should export is love-to everyone you meet. No matter where they were made. And remember, wherever you are is local.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspotcom

hecho en california

God's timing is perfect. So, the next time you question it, consider the following. What if Noah, was to build the ark in California, today? What if the world's first zookeeper, was faced with building the ark, in Los Angeles? First, don't they already have a zoo. Why do we need another? Can you imagine trying to get a building permit for an ark? Would that be an "other" on the application? Do you get a building permit, or a ship building permit? And how much it would cost? Fees? Ever try to explain an ark to someone who has never seen one? How about an environmental impact study? What about all the little critters that would be displaced? When you are trying to really rescue them? The unions-you know they would want a part of the action, what only one employee? Are you sure your articles of incorporation are filed correctly? And animal control would have a field day passing out tickets for dealing with endangered species. Who would supply the lumber? Beaver wood would have to be imported, could take weeks to get it through customs. And what ships would bring it? At a proposed 450' x 75' x 45', until 1884 it would have been the largest water going vessel ever built. Is there room in Long Beach by the Queen Mary? And the neighbors want to know if it will block their view? How will it effect their property values?

Can you imagine the SCE bill each month? For 120 years? Can you imagine the design for waste water control? Were the roads to the ark improved? Did he have a fire plan, and an evacuation plan? What about exotic animal permits? How many semi-trailers of food would he need to take with him? Does he have a restaurant license? Would food and beverage have to make sure he had a three tub sink? Were the correct alarms installed, and were the police notified? And finally, was there access for the handicapped? Did he plan for wheelchair access? Who will handle your publicity campaign? Make sure you have at least one from each minority-or we will shut you down-and they call that affirmative action? Did you mention God? Great. Are the Muslims going to be allowed to build one next to it?

And where would he ever get the funding for the ark? What would their line of credit be? And can you see the board of equalization's eyes light up when it comes time to levy a tax on it? Recreational, residential, or industrial? Ask DMV. Would he need license plates? A boating license, and life preservers? Did he know CPR? And the neighbors would like to know, are you going to work on that at night? Another permit.

And what took one man only 120 years, may still be held up in committee. Just can't have an ark built anywhere, soon others will build one, and pretty soon we have an ark-a -demic! Sorry, Noah, can't do it. Try again next year, the council just isn't pro growth this year.

And you ask yourself, is there nothing that man, left to his own elements, cannot screw up beyond recognition? Maybe that is why the second law of thermodynamics disproves evolution and its convoluted theory. It simply states that everything is in a constant state of atrophy-in other words, it is getting smaller, not evolving. Look around, if you ever need an example, look to any government for a sterling example. Be careful using the federal government-you will be overwhelmed. Evolution out of control.

So why do so many look to the government to help-they will eventually charge you, trust me- when God offers assistance for free? And can even help with the paper work? Maybe the small mind that cannot imagine the size of the ark, can not imagine the size of our God. If they can't figure it out, surely no one can, their pride tells them. Yet, like the ark was designed to save 8 people, and restore them on a changed earth, today He promises Jesus to call us home, and then after seven years of no God on earth, restore it for 1000 years of perfection-one final chance to serve Him, before the new heaven and the new earth are created.

Like science fiction? Propose a story like this to your editor. And he'll love it, until you tell him it was written 2000 years ago, and is published in a best selling book. Take it to Hollywood, just don't tell them who inspired it. 3D? No comparison to God's dimensions. But yet the sad thing is, you could probably tell the story before the ark was ever built.

And so God did, at the right time build the ark. And at the right time send Jesus, while we were still sinners. And today is the day of salvation, the right time! You may have missed the ark, don't miss Jesus. You don't want to go to hell-I hear the paperwork is.....so don't! Accept Jesus-verbal applications only! Say yes today-I'd rather have my benevolent father watching than their big brother!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

store closings

It is a sad rule of doing business that stores will close. Going out of business sales have been going on as long as there have been businesses. But in the last few years, it has become epidemic, with the empty store fronts in malls and lining downtowns advertising a scary economic outlook. And every type of business is effected. In Orange County in the last 12 months, five motorcycle dealerships have gone under. With the only real final benefit to their customers is their going out of business sale. A time for us to buy things at greatly reduced prices we normally wouldn't. I really needed the flowered tank cover for my bike, yeah! And many times when they say liquidate, they mean stock, shelves, and racks-everything! And the closer the closing day becomes, the better the deals-but of course the lesser the variety.

And I have purchased many things I don't need, or wouldn't normally buy, because the price was right-too good to pass up. Seems everything has a price that seems like a bargain. And have heard many about to be unemployed, short term employees say "if business had been this good we never would have had to close." Not realizing every sale now was probably below cost, just to clear it out. And although the atmosphere is fun with the big discounts, driving by the empty store next week only leaves memories of where we hung on rainy Saturday mornings, or bought our new bikes, or watched as they were serviced. Times hanging with fellow riders, whose next ride will be to find a new hangout. Voids created on many levels, never to return. And even though we may find another store, it somehow isn't the same, and the discounts we got aren't worth the price we eventually paid.

I have never heard of a business that was set up to fail. The hopes and dreams of the store owner start out big, but somehow dwindle due to economies, poor management, bad timing, or just because it is a poor business. When attending court last week with a friend, whose son had a DUI, the halls of the court were lined with people. Some remorseful, yet some still stupid, describing stupid cops, or bad timing, when it was a bad decision they made to drink-theirs! Talking with two young guys, nice enough men, I said "look down the hall, everyone here represents a family that has unnecessary turmoil in their life because of drinking. The cost in the tens of thousands of lost time at work, and add in court costs, and maybe losing their jobs, can you explain to me why that drink was that good?"

And neither one could, but both were wanting to talk. "You're a Christian, aren't you?" When I admitted to it, I also asked if there was anything I could do to help. And found they had a lot to say. Peer pressure, anger, boredom, too much time on their hands-you name it, they all were sad excuses. And I left them with this thought, "have you ever met someone who had problems and drugs or alcohol solved them? Have you ever met a loser who drugs or alcohol turned into a winner?" And hopefully they think about it, before a next time occurs.

"It's only wine, or I have a designated driver. I can control it." How can you trust a fellow drinker, but not God? I tell people I choose not to drink. I would never be able to forgive myself if my family needed me and I couldn't be there because I had been drinking. Think about that next time you need a drink.

And this message isn't only for those non-Christians. People expect us to act like Christians, and not drink. No excuses-serve the bottle or serve God. Or like the hundreds in the hall that day, every day, who will end up before a judge. Where all will hear of your sin. Where it becomes public record. It isn't just personal anymore.

Like the business going under, there was a turning point they saw that the business was doomed. Don't reach that point in your life with drugs or alcohol. Call out to Jesus now, repent, and ask for His help. Before the out of business sign appears in your life. And it takes your family with it.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

we three kings of pop

Last weekend Christopher and I were supposed to get some great seat time riding. But, due to the weather, our seat time consisted of having a digitally remastered weekend instead. Visually and audio enhancing our time with old tunes, and old shows from the fifties, we had as good a time as you can have when not riding. And we were reminded of a few facts while visiting.

This month, if he had lived, would have been John Lennon's 70th birthday. So to celebrate it, Yoko issued an album of his favorite songs. Reissued, and remastered, somehow making the originals obsolete to his devoted fans. And in a past year of reissues, we talked of Michael Jackson's many reissued albums, and his meteoric rise-again-to number one the day after he died. How Elvis still sells so many albums, as do many others who have only one thing in common-they are all dead! And raking in millions of dollars for others to inherit. And in the cases of Lennon, Michael, and The King-their death was the thing that resurrected their careers. Lennon without the Beatles was too strange-Yoko OH NO! Michael was trying to make a comeback-he needed the money, and Elvis was making a comeback-he too needed cash. And in each case, their death was the career move they needed to re-establish themselves. May I hear a huge thank you from their families? Just knowing that Joe Jackson and the J5 will sleep and eat better tonight almost makes it all worthwhile. And affording Priscilla a facelift she will never forget-or will we.

But amazing as this all is, I can remember how amazed I was at the instant information deluging the TV when Elvis died. I was impressed with how the stations got reporters on the scene, and put together these documentaries. Until we visited with a friend who owned a station in Tucson. He explained that these pre-made documentaries are part of the station's library. And an untold number of biographies are available through the local affiliates. All you have to do is plug in the tape, and sit back and reminisce with your friends. Cool.

But he also explained how the stations have tapes explaining away the disappearance of a large number of people-all at once. The rapture, as Christians refer to it, and these tapes explain it from either a mass alien abduction-have you noticed the increased acknowledgement of UFOs lately by our government? Or pestilence, or even from atomic radiation, they have a ready explanation to lie to those who are left behind. And millions just waiting to buy into the lies. And just like the endless stories on Michael, you will hear how the world is better without these people-seems they were all Christians, always trying to tell us how to live. Now without them, we can live as we want, and live better. And for 3 1/2 years under anti-Christ they will, or think they will. Until they have no chance, and will have to bow down to him as God!

Far fetched? Science fiction? Can never happen? The Bible warns of wars and rumors of wars-watched the news today? How about strange weather? We now have hurricane seasons, tornadoes in New York, and earthquakes with tsunamis everywhere. Pestilence and disease? STDs and AIDS is out of control. African bees that cannot be stopped. And the worst-bedbugs-how do you stop them? Crime out of control, only when the way the statistics are gathered does it go down. Our world in economic chaos, and running out of food. All things predicted, some over 2000 years ago, without the help of the media.

Your choice, choose God now and escape the coming wrath-knowing the truth. Or watch it unfold digitally, and altered to represent Satan's truth.

Jesus understands death, and also resurrection after it. Life, not remastered tapes. He is the master-get in now on the live version! He died for you so you can live. The best thing that could have ever happened to you-so you could be reunited with God.

Jesus Christ-still drawing crowds since His resurrection in 33AD. 2000 years on the charts. Now that's a record not even Michael Jackson could match! I guess you could say that makes Him King! Of Kings!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the bottom line

I'm looking at a quote I got for tires yesterday. It used to be you got a price, and that was installed on the car, mounted and balanced as they say. But as I look at this quote, I am not sure what I bought, or was going to buy. Say the price of the tire is $93 each. x4=$372. Plus tax. But we aren't on the car-yet. Automatically listed on the bill is $39 for free replacement if one is damaged. Think of it as the store betting you won't damage one. Which is very rare. $7 environmental fee-beware the word fee-it is another tax that the government gets, along with sales tax. Plus another $52 for lifetime balance and valve. Valves still only cost around 25 cents each, and most people don't go back for balancing, until the car shakes because the tire is worn out, and your warranty will not cover replacement because of lack of maintenance. Ask a soccer mom was mounting and balancing is, or a valve stem. So-for only another $98 you get a set of tires, plus tax. They have added on another 37%, of mostly intangibles-peace of mind the insurance whores call it, and stand there telling you that you got a great deal. And they have the word discount in their name!

I have been in the automotive business since 1977, and have only ever seen a handful of tires replaced under warranty-and usually to placate a customer. For some reason, they are the most perfect item made by man, but still wear out prematurely when left in his hands, or on his car. And the warranty certificate on the back states it is up to their inspection, and then you must buy the same warranty for the new tire, and it goes on and on. Just like Costco makes most of their profit from memberships, and major electronics chains from selling extended warranties-the last year Circuit City was in business they wrote over $400 million in extended warranties. Selling paper! It seems the product is secondary, sell that insurance! Which you have to! Or so they let on!

A fair deal is where both parties benefit, and when standing there with all cords showing on the tire you paid to lifetime balance, but didn't, they got you. And you just got an education that most don't know, so go in armed next time, and negotiate! Down-I want a discount, meet the competition's price like your sign says. Earn my business!

As Christians we are told to spread the gospel. But I have found an important aspect is earning the right to share Jesus. Listen, be compassionate, and share the gospel, then if you have to, use words. A saying says "they will listen to what you share, when they know how much you care." I watched a preacher interrupting some firemen this summer, and had nothing in common to talk with them. I stood by, but he wouldn't make eye contact with me, he was so focused on telling these men the gospel. On deaf, and unhearing ears. They wee with their families at a picnic! Holding the food they stood in line for. The spirit was not in his words, he had an agenda-his own. Just like selling the aftermarket warranties. Yes-they need to hear the gospel, and yes, we need to take it out. But God-gives us the words and audience He wants us to have. So sad, but so many have shot the messenger because he didn't earn the right. A chance to minister, blown by some misguided theory.

Why did Peter go from denial to a little girl, three times, to 3000 saved on Pentecost? The spirit was upon him. It is not us, or our words, but the spirit that gives life. And we are to be a witness, and should never have to go out witnessing! Our life should be open for all and any to see-and it is! Surprise to many, but not to God.

Buying tires, like sharing the gospel, should be easy. It's the small print, the low ball invite that takes away the trust. The gospel is simple, we sinned, and need a savior. His name is Jesus, when we repent and ask Him into our lives, we are saved. No small print, no certificates, no memberships, or add ones. Saved. Paid in full. No need to carry your papers with you, your name is written in the book of life.

So today, being a true rebel, I will question, and get the fees removed-or I will go elsewhere. Someone else would love to have my business.

Share the gospel in love today, for someone else would love to take away the gospel. Trust God, the right thing to do. He has already negotiated the best deal-Jesus. The bottom line, and Jesus is still the best way to get there.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

nice title, but can you fix my problem?

As Americans we are overly impressed with titles. A Captain is better than a lieutenant, and no one is just an MD, they need PCMD, LLC, or MACS, or who knows what else beside their name to out title their fellow doctors. It is found in every profession, I would say it is safe to say there are a group of janitors that below to an elite group of mop swingers, so get a better rate and their fellow janitors are impressed.

Just a few years ago having an MBA meant something, now it doesn't even get you a better place in line at the unemployment office. And I believe this whole subculture is one of the things wrong today. Selling titles. A sub culture that invaded our businesses, telling them that being accredited, or certified, or ASE certified made you a better employee. True, it may make you a better employee, but does it make you do your task better? Today you can even get degrees through the internet, without even going into a classroom, or interacting with others. I have hired techs who never worked on cars, and have interviewed those with degrees, but had no deductive reasoning to back up their education. Think you know it all? Right click and see if your problem goes away. Google that! It seems we have been invaded by the pride police, and they are the only ones who don't have to be accredited-just be sure you can never match up to their education, experience, or background. But they will sell you a course so you can get close.

Before I left Land Rover, one of the biggest jokes as far as product and organization-four corporate owners in less than 14 years, they wanted all of us to be certified. To become versed in Land Rover history, and know all about the product. To at least know as much as the poor sucker who bought one, and got his education via the owners manual while waiting for the tow truck. What part of never again didn't he understand? So we all had to go through a certification program. Except only two people actually did-they took all the tests online for us, while we kept the dealership running. Just sign here Mike, you are a certified Land Rover know it all-impressed? Except I knew nothing except hands on-although I did write 42% of the business, while only working 10 months! While others were busy earning a star on their business card, I was earning a living! And the saddest thing was our dealership got congratulated by Land Rover for having so many of our employees certified-thanks Neal and Jeff, who spent, or wasted almost two weeks taking all our tests. All the employees except for those two cheated! Which leads me to ask-where is the integrity in the system? How can you trust someone who earned the certification falsely?

Did Henry Ford, Thomas Edison, or Bill Gates pass a certification? Did Obama?

I love talking with clergy types who have a DD at the end of their name. A degree in religion, but not necessarily one in salvation. You cannot earn or learn your salvation, it is a gift. And when I first was out of work went on Christian websites looking for Christian work. Although I have taught, written, worked with homeless, and been in ministry, I had no degree-and therefore no credibility. Being born again was not a requirement to teach about Jesus, but where and where in your class you graduated with was. And the more degrees the better. Did Paul, Peter, John, or any other apostle have certification? Did Jesus?

To effectively minister first be available. No degree or certification needed-just be born again and in the spirit. God gives wisdom, and the words needed as they are needed. And you can't beat Him as an advisor. Or His book, the Bible as a guide, reference book, or way to lead your life. No other existential discourse by some noted theologian needed. I love it when some try to impress me with their library list, but don't include the Bible in it.

So next time you have a problem, go right to Jesus. No appointment needed. You may find some well titled, certified people there with you-waiting in line to see Him. Some may know about Him, and have the degree to prove it-but nothing beats knowing Him personally. Your name written in the book of life-the only certification that matters to God-and the only one that should matter to you!

No one can take it for you, and no one can take it away! No renewal dates, or retests. Or lines, tuition, or graduating exercises. No payments. He paid it all, just seek Him, and join the family of certified, born again, going to heaven with Jesus Christians.

His title-God. And He calls you friend-can you beat that title?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

how much for a hotel on Boardwalk?

Growing up, summertime meant hanging at the park with your friends. My parents were never big on travelling, so when in the summer of my fifteenth year, they decided to go to Atlantic City, it was met with some reluctance, not realizing how it would impact me. Or how I would enjoy it. We went with my family, and my grandparents, and stayed at the Hotel Morton, on Virginia Avenue, one of the streets found in Monopoly, rent $12.

In 1969, Atlantic City was more like it was in the 1920's than the 1990's. Hanging on to the memories of what it once was. It was decayed and decaying, and where once it was a mecca for those to get away from the city, today it is a Sin City east. And in the late 60's, was just a few years from total collapse. When the Donald would reinvent it. You stayed on or around the Boardwalk, rent $50, for once off of it, it was dangerous. The highest per capita black population in NJ lived there, and it was abject poverty once you got away from the beach area. As compared to all the money and fun being had on the Boardwalk. It still had enough of its glory days to be memorable. Even if the postcards of its glory days were 40 years old.

The Steel Pier was at the end of Virginia Avenue, perhaps the most famous pier in the US of A at the time. Dick Clark, who was emerging from being a struggling Philadelphia DJ had live shows there, even hosted American Bandstand from there. I remember the marquee names where big time, right off the radio and their albums. And walking through the huge ballroom was impressive. It was near the Convention Center, where Miss America was crowned each year, back when it was ok to be a beautiful woman. But the main draw for me, and many other tourists, was the diving horse. A girl would sit on a horse, then dive 20-30 feet into a pool,while the crowd roared. But more spectacular to me was watching a high diver jump into the same pool from 100 feet. The only thing I could never understand was why jump into a pool when you had all this water in the Atlantic available to you? I guess that's entertainment!

I had more fun dodging waves with my dad, and getting sunburned and exhausted. And then because we were with my grandparents, having to dress for dinner, in the Morton's dining room. Such were the vestiges of a more formal time.

The Boardwalk. What a place. A boulevard all its own, wide and long, and in summer covered with people. On the corner where we stayed was Mr. Peanut. And I remember a man-in a Mr. Peanut outfit, probably a high school student, shaking hands and inviting us into the store. I remember the Salt Water Taffy, and thinking "why would anyone want to eat anything with salt water in it?" This after swallowing gallons of the Atlantic that day. We ate breakfast at Taylor Ham, and were entertained by the way they served the meal-all in one skillet. We tried it at home, but it just wasn't the same. Man-I could go for some right now! Taylor ham, eggs over easy, with potatoes. In a skillet, of course.

I remember my dad telling me how they trained race horses on the beach-running in the sand, and after walking in the deep sand thought it would take me all summer to get used to it-a sacrifice I was willing to make. Walking past the Marlborough-Blenheim, an old hotel, and another old hotel, Chalfonte-Haddon Hall, you were impressed by their majesty, and how majestic they sounded, and were, torn down by Trump, removing the last real touch with a society from a past generation. One that dressed for dinner. A hotel, not a motel, where are the cool names like these from yesteryear today? We probably get the names we deserve, but when was the last time you stayed in a hotel? Front!

And walking the Boardwalk I noted many things. I still have a newspaper-underground, very cool at the time, advertising the Aquarian Arts Festival, tickets available through Ticketron. You now know it as Woodstock. Bought in a head shop, which used to mean cool clothes, like those from Carnaby St. not the drug connection it does now. But somehow the streets weren't laid out like in Monopoly, and this bothered me. Even realizing that the streets preceded the game, it felt weird not following the order of St. Charles Place, rent $10, then States Avenue, rent $10, and then Virginia, rent $12. Something seemed very much out of order, but I never quite got over it. At least North Carolina and Pacific were adjacent. Never did find the railroads, though, and realized the utilities were everywhere-just turn on a faucet or flip a light switch. An early morning walk on the Boardwalk, rent $50, dodging Jitneys, while the sun rose over the Atlantic somehow made it all seem unimportant. But I still hang onto their disorder to this day!

Things are simpler when you are younger, more exciting too, maybe that is why Jesus tells us to come to Him like children. Bring your toys, sit on His lap, and play. Enjoy the time being a kid, because adulthood, and all its responsibilities lie ahead, and will last longer than any childhood, or vacation. Somehow trusting Him, as opposed to wanting to understand everything, keeps us childlike, and dependent on Him. Listening as He tells stories, and explains things, watching as He points things out, and the luxury of just being yourself, without peer pressures, yet. So that is how I try to come to Him, as myself. Warts and all-He loves me. And the time spent with Him is precious.

Spend time with Him today-as a child. Put away the concerns of the day, and rest in Him. Take that spiritual vacation from life, and realize that soon we will be with Him. No deadlines, rules, bosses, or over due notices. It will be the trip, the vacation you always planned, but never knew how great it could be. And it goes on, and on, and on....

Give me pier pressure rather than peer pressure. Interrupt my summer of life with a better vacation. With Jesus.

And as I now live on the west coast, Atlantic City is 3000 miles away, but not far from my memories. For I now have the Pacific (Avenue, rent $26) and beaches. In Jersey we go to the Shore. But Jesus is the same no matter when or where you are. A four star hotel among motels, and a city where all the street names are in order. His get out of sin card more valuable than a get out of jail free card. I think I'll just go riding, and spend the day in Free Parking.

And no, I won't be dressing for dinner.

love with compassion,

Mike

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what good is fun if you don't enjoy it?

I am blessed that I get to ride so many different motorcycles. From 165hp Rockets, to 50hp Scramblers, I get to have many different reactions when the throttle is twisted. And I like going fast, and stopping quickly-it's a rush! So it often surprises people when I'm asked, which bike is your favorite, I answer the Bonneville. For you see it doesn't handle the best, brakes are definitely not radial style, two up is a torture test, and although it would be the fastest bike on the road 40 years ago, today it is mid pack-but still faster than any new Harley. So why is the Bonne your favorite?

Long before our egos went out of control with performance figures, bikes were fun to ride. Whether a quick trip to the store, or a quick trip to New Mexico, just riding was fun. Wind in your face, bugs in your teeth, and the feeling of freedom were worth any ride, anywhere, at any time. But today, things have regressed so much that fun is not listed under specifications. In fact, it may not be listed anywhere, but is still there. Not removed, but hidden, covered up by some ad man's idea of how you and your ride should relate.

True, the Bonne has the classic Triumph styling, and it is hard to go anywhere without someone coming up and reminiscing about the one they had, but it is the view from the seat that I find the best, and the view I will get to know best the more I ride. It is how the bike makes me feel, and I can ride 100' and find myself smiling. It is a bike that doesn't test my limits, but lets me test its limits, and I feel comfortable pushing it as hard as I can. For some, it takes a GSXR1000, for me the Bonneville is the drug of choice. And sometimes when riding something else, miss the simplicity of the Bonne.

Just a motorcycle. No bags, no windshield, and no radios. If I want to carry something, I take Bungee cords. Remember them? I attach my Arai to the rear fender brace, and I am safe and secure. The motor makes music, just ask the man at the Denny's last week, who when I fired it up, said "don't leave, let me get my friend, he has to hear this!" I can drag foot pegs, giving me the illusion of being a faster rider, and even run it to redline, without being pulled off the seat by speed. And it is still faster then 99% of the cars out there, and for less than $8000 I can have it all. Or fill my garage with many bikes while you have your superior performing "only" motorcycle. Fun-the missing factor in too many rides, and missing in too many people's lives.

If anyone should have fun it is Christians. We have heaven assured, a great and loving God to protect us, and the Holy spirit to guide us. And we have 24 hour access to all via Jesus. Yet so many buy into the world's attractions, and miss the fun of just being a Christian. The ones who have all the Jesus stickers, telling you what a great person they are, while driving with the cell phone, and cutting you off. Who are always late for church, and interrupt all those whose toes they step on when climbing over you to get to their seat. Who always have a kind word for the pastor to his face, but never to his back. Who are so overwhelmed with success in life, they forget what true success is, and are miserable. They know the F word, just not the FUN word-the real F word.

So next time Wing rider, when we talk, and you can't understand how my light, great handling bike is so much fun, at a third of the price, just adjust your electric seat, turn on your DVD player, hook up your communicators, and set your cruise. And take your 1000 pound motor cycle out for a ride-on the freeways. Eat at a chain restaurant, and talk with your other Wing friends. And never get how much fun I am having. Just feeling the wind in my face, the music from my exhaust, and looking forward to scraping my pegs the first chance I get-on a back road somewhere.

And you believers, I don't do seminars. Or weekend retreats. Have nothing against them, except they cut into my fun time with Jesus. You see, in any group you are only as strong as your weakest link. In my group, I am the weakest link-so I go my own pace, and can keep up with Jesus just fine. And its fun, and I can go all day, for days. Just Jesus, a Bible, and time well spent with Him. And you won't hurt my feeling complaining about the retreat food, or how you didn't sleep. For I am secure that in my relationship with the road, that basic is still the best. And simple, just like me and Jesus beats anything else.

For Jesus, like riding is personal. And should be fun. Doing both more and enjoying it less? Remember his disciples carried no money, food, or clothes. Just what was with them, and look at their adventures. See, almost 2000 years ago Jesus knew how to travel-simply. Just like the gospel-simple. So that all that heard could understand.

Do you understand? Do you get it? Turn off your headset and turn on to Jesus. Ride on!

Are we having fun yet? I am! Pick up your Bible without the i-pod, commentaries, or tapes. Just read it. Maybe under a tree, next to a winding road, with your bike parked near you. Hear the birds, smell the flowers, and feel the spirit surround you. Bet you didn't know how much fun simple could be? and why we look back fondly at the good old days! These are the good old days!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

"well, hang in there..."

Over the years the American dream has changed. In my lifetime it was go to college, get a good job, marry the right girl, and live happily ever after. And to many that was a dream fulfilled-at least on the outside. I can remember growing up in a neighborhood where many commuted to New York City for work, and whose dads you rarely saw. They had nice houses, nice cars, and apparently were living well. From the outside. But since we are not given many insights into what goes on inside, we could make our opinions based on what we saw, or sometimes didn't see.

Today the American dream is hopefully pay off your college loans, try to find a job, live with your girlfriend-why get married when half of them fail? and try to survive until tomorrow. Now this may seem a bit extreme, but we all know someone who is like this.
With unemployment almost 20%, based on unemployed, under employed, and those who have fallen off the lists, truth is harsher than fiction, or even perception. Perhaps the best definition of a recession is your neighbor is out of work, it is a depression if you are.

Many seek escape through drugs, alcohol, gambling, and other ways that end in disaster, and are disastrous along the way. For the rest of us there is motorcycles. And unless you ride, you just don't get the freedom found in it. Your worst day at work can be forgiven taking the long way home. Taking a Saturday and scrambling with your friends, grabbing a burger, and riding roads new can open up the doors to happiness that the world has closed. And even if you married the right girl, got the right job, the right home, etc, life can still interfere with your plans, so go for a ride!

In 1969, a TV show, Then Came Bronson came out. Lasting only a season, it showed a man who after after a friend's suicide, and a confrontation with his boss, decides to get on his XLH900 Sportster and find the meaning of life. And for a season of shows, you get to see his adventures, some even including the bike. But although the bike may provide the way of escape, it cannot produce the thing that is missing, that he is searching for. And in the opening scene of each show, it shows him at a light, with Mr. Successful in his station wagon, looking at him asking him where he is going. "Wherever I end up, I guess." When the driver says "I wish I was you," Bronson gives him his famous tag line, "well, hang in there!"

God has designed something into each one of us, that only Jesus can make complete. A something that the world talks about, is really a someone. And until Jesus comes into it, you can be successful, but only temporarily. You can see the things of God, but never see Him. You can ride the best roads, but until you ride with Christ, you ride alone-even in a group.

I wonder how the series would have gone on if Bronson got saved? We will never know as it was cancelled, and Hollywood would never be that daring! Today seek God, and find Him. Quit hanging in there, and become part of a body of believers. We will all end up somewhere, although the ride doesn't always get us to our destination. Truly for some, there is therapy, for others there are motorcycles. But only Jesus offers eternal life! It may be true you never see a motorcycle parked in front of a psychiatrists office, but you do see them parked at churches. Some pastors even ride-cool. Stop in today, look for another biker, and introduce yourself. Let Jesus introduce himself. And watch as the Lord opens your heart, and you find a freedom in Christ that you didn't know existed.

Think of it, I was lost and lonely, Then Came Jesus! A great show, with guys riding bikes, and cruising the US of A. And sharing a living god with a lost and dying world. On a trip, and when asked where are you going, answer "let me tell you...." and share the gospel.

You see Jesus and motorcycles-it just don't get any better! Bring along your friends. Tell them about Jesus today.

Taking a trip? Where to? "Just me and my friend Jesus...."

Wanna go along?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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answers to prayer-yes, no, or wait

When Ted was asked "how are you doing?" he would respond "better than you, I don't have to talk to me!" And depending on who was asking, he meant it. And I think of people's prayer life sometimes, and how they approach God You see, He answers every prayer. Yes-we like that answer, it is so nice when God agrees with us. Then there is no, and we wonder how God just can't understand what we are asking. "Don't you care God? Are you paying attention?" And our initial response sometimes is one of disappointment, for we hate to be told no. But I have to come to realize when He says no, it is for my protection, or He has something better.

The third repsonse from God is wait. For what? How long? Will I like it, will it be worth waiting? And if we don't try to hurry God, we find the answer is always worth waiting for. But that wait can sometimes seem like it takes forever. And so many base their relationship, or how they see God based on answers to prayer. Isn't the fact He is God enough?

Just imagine, if He answered us like we talk to others? Can you see Him telling us to chill out? Don't bother me now, I have a universe to run. Or, "oh no, not you again!" Yet when we are asked a question about God, we react poorly sometimes. We get on our theological discourse high horse,and think we need to explain everything we know, and oh by the way, maybe answer the question while doing it.

Some years ago a Boozefighter put me in a headlock, seeing I was a Christian. He said,"I have a question for you. Can God make a rock so big He cannot pick it up?" And with all my Biblical juices flowing answered, "You don't ask God stupid questions like that." And when the few seconds of silence passed, the guy answered, "good answer, I like that." Not the words I planned, but the words God gave me, and the right answer.

The gospel, like most of us, is simple. 25 words explain it, John 3:16. And in 87 words, Lincoln penned the Gettysburg Address-note, he never really lived there. In 1337 words, our forefathers gave us the Declaration of Independence. Yet today, the Obama Health Care Bill alone has over 2000 pages! And was encouraging the senators and representatives not to read it. How ungodlike!

Take the time to read John. Maybe look at the love and hope in the Gettysburg Address. Feel secure in knowing about the Declaration of Independence. But put your faith only in God. Talk with Him, and when asked about Him, answer in love. Don't bowl them over with what you know. They will only care about what you know, by what you show. Read your Bible. It may surprise you what is in it!

And when you are done, what it leaves in you! And if God askes how you are doing, tell Him! "Better, now that you've talked to me." A lesson for Ted, and all who seek Him. He didn't have to send Jesus, aren't you glad He did?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com