who's in your heritage?

Just hear the names of Roberts, Rossi, Nixon, Aldana, and Rainey and you think of motorcycle road racing and its champions. Think McGrath, Johnson, Stewart, and De Coster and you think moto-X champs. Unser, Foyt, and Mears and you know they have all won multiple times at Indy. Ruth, Gehrig, DiMaggio, and Mantle-who else but the NY Yankees. How about Harrison, Harding, and Wilson? Stumped on who they played for-try US Presidents! And how about names like Jan, Brandy, Joy, Theresa, and Penny? Tick...tick...tick...times up. If you guessed those who brought us meals when I was sick this summer, you guessed right. And in my estimation, although serving in obscurity, they are the best of best on any list. Servants who serve, without recognition, but are at the top of their game in the eyes of God. Where do you fit on that list?

While watching yesterday's speech by Benjamin Netanyahu at the over rated United Nations, he spoke of men like King David, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and others. At first I thought he was quoting from the Bible, but it turned out he was talking about Israeli history. He could have easily added the names of Begin, Dayan, and Ben-Gurion and have woken up the ears of the uninitiated, but yet he chose to go back over 3500 years, to those who were responsible for Israel's earliest history. To the beginning. It just happens that these men were written of in the Bible, thus placing them not only a prominent place in history, but in scripture as well. Try to imagine Jacob without Esau, Isaac with Abraham, and Abraham without Sarah, and history turns sour. But figure into that history, Ishmael, and Hagar, his mom. Then mention Abraham, his dad. And you get a better insider's look into the middle east.

When God promised Abraham and Sarah a child, who God told Abraham he would be the father of countless people to come, they had no faith. They were old, and she had never conceived. yet leave it to God to pick those who could not do it on their own. But at Sarah's insistence, Abraham had a child with Hagar, her hand maiden, and then some 13-15 years later, Sarah bore Isaac. Just as God promised. But yet the damage was done. Same dad, yet Ishmael was not the promised one, and had to give up his inheritance. Fast forward some 3500 years and we have the Middle East Crisis, where two brothers who could not get along, has perpetuated to this day. And a reinforcement of God's promises. Yes, the Jews still exist as a people today, even though there nation has been taken from them several times. A good lesson to remember for those who threaten them with extinction-don't mess with His people. And respect His promises, they always come true.

Do you realize that when you accept Christ that you are part of Abraham's legacy? For God tells us that the Gentiles were grafted in when they turn to Jesus, thus even adding many more to Abraham's legacy. But when you deny Jesus you add to a different legacy-those who don't choose God, and are damned for eternity. So choose a legacy that brings life, instead of death and strife. Choose a life with Jesus. For there are names, and then there are names...

Quick-consider the list of friends you associate with. If it doesn't include Jesus, may I suggest you add Him to your list and life today. And don't wait for Yom Kippur like the Jews, who on that day hope their name is written in the Book of Life. Accept Jesus today-for there is no better day to start your own legacy-based on the eternal, loving one. Today is the day-make Jesus the most important part of it. And if Abraham with his sin of disobedience can be listed in the Book of Hebrew's Hall of Faith, imagine what you and I could do! With God's help of course. And a little faith...see. it goes a long way.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

when skills disqualify you

After a career in sales, I finally got sick of it. The lies, innuendoes, false promises that so many gave finally got to me. So I quit-trusting God to give me a new career. With one of the things I was unable to shake was the countless sales training seminars I attended. Which later I found out, that the buyers also attended seminars on how to combat us. An evil game, that I promised I would never play again. And I vowed to never use my honed sales techniques in any other job-and I haven't, although I was tempted. I wanted to trust God, not just say I was.

The best negotiating skills I ever learned were after I quit, and attended classes on how to get hired. I really became a skilled negotiator, and could present myself as the right candidate for any job. No matter how qualified I was, or wasn't. The fine tuning I got put anyone at a disadvantage, including me, as I now had to choose from positions offered, instead of just attaining the position. If you would like me to say I always chose right, you won't hear that. But God still respected my poor choices, which always led to better ones-when I listened to Him.

During a church visit, we had to endure this couple being praised by the pastor for teaching classes on what is your gift for ministry. After 30 seconds I wanted to stand up and shout "shut up," for it was the same old pablum I had learned in sales. Where was God, how about the Holy Spirit? And my one question, "could Jesus have done a better job choosing apostles if He had taken their advice?"

It seems He didn't choose the most qualified, but rather He knew men's hearts, and His father's will. He chose fisherman, anarchists, tax collectors, and others to represent what is the most valuable and important message ever to be told-the gospel. And then sent them out with limited training, which they didn't understand, and not even an expense account. They had to trust Him. Working purely commission, they had to trust Jesus, and today we see how right God was. And is. And will be. Qualified doesn't mean called-in fact to God it will disqualify many. Look to Jesus....

While attending UNM I was part of a Friday night fellowship, which this one night John Duffy and I went to together. That night they were studying the gifts of the spirit, and how each person has one. Except John and I, we were at a loss. Which tried others patience. So much for fruit. While the others were all proud of their new gifts, we were perplexed. We had all the qualifications, and also none of the qualifications. And the leader was upset when we left after midnight, without a gift assigned. I was driving John home, when we came upon a horrible accident on University on campus. Police, ambulances, and fire trucks surrounded the scene, and we stopped, not saying a word, but I could tell by John's expression he was already praying. We parked, and walked right through the barricades, past EMT's, and police, and were drawn to a man being loaded into an ambulance. His stomach was distended, and he appeared in shock. But somehow, while being loaded, they stopped, and John and I laid hands on him and prayed. Then they loaded him and took off, sirens and lights flashing. We walked back to the car in silence, but God put on our hearts how He sent us there to pray. And this man would be OK, God had us pray for him. For the man's benefit, but also ours, but mostly God's. To show His love to all of us. Something I cannot put into words, but you just know when you know God. And this was a scenario God has repeated many times in my life, and still does. Our only qualifications were faith and obedience. We trusted God, and then obeyed Him. All without still knowing what our spiritual gift was. I still don't some 30+ years later.

Man plans, and God laughs. And then we repent. Sometimes. Obedience is better than sacrifice, and trusting God is better than any skills. We are saved by grace, and God's strength is made perfect in our weakness. My open heart surgery situation is all about Jesus. No skills, nothing learned, or even absolute faith would carry us through-we had to trust. For it was the only choice available. For who is a better counselor than the mighty counselor? Or who can save better than the savior, Jesus Christ? So why go to anyone else other than the creator for help?

Someday, somehow ,when most needed your skills and knowledge will fail you. God never will. Do you believe that? Do you really trust Him? Today you will have many chances to find out-in the spirit, self control being part of it, you will know. The choice is yours. Don't believe the lies of the the world...when you can have all the riches of heaven in Jesus Christ...

A day came where I was that man being loaded into the ambulance, mine was called life flight. If not for God... my wife would be a widow, my sons fatherless. He saved my life to show them grace. And mine to enjoy life with them, and to tell others. He still has a plan for me, and for you. Trust Him now, for some day you may be on a gurney, and no doctor can save you. Trust the only one who can and wants to... Jesus. For His one skill we can never perfect is love, we can only reflect his. Next time you feel skillful or qualified, I have these 9 inch nails and a cross...Jesus Christ-now that's a qualification I can live with.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

saturday morning friends

Maybe Stymie said it best, while rubbing a lamp and making a wish. "I wish there were only two days in the year, Christmas and Saturday!" And I agree, as both were, and still are precious times to me while growing up, and now while recovering after surgery. So let's join Mr. Peabody and his boy Sherman at the Way Back machine, and travel back. I see it is set on the early sixties, on a Saturday morning...

Saturday morning TV was our friend growing up. Not only would we watch with excitement, but then go out and replay in our own way the things we had just watched. It would start with Crusader Rabbit, and his comrade Ragland T. Tiger, the T. stood for Larry, he once explained, his father couldn't spell. Many early mornings were spent with them in Galahad Glen. Then it was on to Sky King-out of the clear blue of the western sky. And the first images of Arizona for this Jersey boy. The next ranch was the Broken Wheel, where Joey Newton was raised by Big Jim Newton, after being adopted. But the show was called Fury, after Joey's black stallion, and with his pal Packy always in trouble, Fury was the equine version of Lassie. They don't make horses like that any more. Next was Roy Rogers on Trigger, with Dale Evans on Buttercup, and Pat Brady in his old Jeep, Nellybelle. With all these horses I was never a horse fan, but loved Nellybelle. In between was Andy's Gang, with Andy Devine,who you guessed it, made it as a cowboy. We watched every week as Froggy plunked his magic twanger, and Midnight the Cat chased Little Squeaky the mouse. All good clean fun, and these were all our friends. We talked of them, played like them, and no one slept in on a Saturday morning. So it is with great joy I started watching Roy Rogers again-and I feel young again.

You always knew Roy would make things right, whether it was the gold mine being robbed, or the widow needing food. The bad guys could easily be identified by their looks, and the good guys by the white hats. Their horses always seemed to be cleaner, too. The difference between good and evil to us when we were young, although I was never told that cleanliness is akin to Godliness. But seeing Roy in action again on Trigger, and Bullet chasing him, I can remember the old shows, and also the times, when horse and Jeeps were sharing the trails. When 35 cents bought the blue plate special at Dale's cafe, and the rich guys from the east were always taught a lesson about courtesy and values by the end of the show. City folk always took longer, but were the most generous afterwards. And I always wondered how the city folk ever ended up owning a ranch in the west to start with. But as a kid, these and other things on TV shaped our values, and our dreams.

Well, we're back in the future, thanks Mr. Peabody for the trip, and Saturday morning is different. Violence on a level, that only sells toys to unsuspecting. No message, no Roy and Dale, and no Froggy the Gremlin. And as I channel surf, I cannot find anything to watch. Some Three Stooges sometimes, maybe an old movie, and Roy, but the rest is embarrassing to me, and I wonder, how can parents let their kids watch this junk? Wasn't it Barney Fife who said "the first rule is to obey all rules?" If my parents say it is ok, is it really?

Times have changed, and so have values-thankfully Jesus hasn't. Sin will always be sin to God, and big or small, sin will always be sin. He hates it, and when it gets between us, we change. Do not be deceived, bad company corrupts good morals, we are told. And I still have my morals challenged, but God is still God, never leaving me. He gets me through the tough, and I rejoice with Him after. He shows me how self control is based on the choices I make, and still loves me when I make a bad one. He is good over evil, charity to the poor, and the sheriff rescuing us from the bad guys. He is Sky King, in his plane, the Songbird, rescuing Penny and Clipper from danger. He is Joey on Fury, saving the young kid who wondered off. He is Andy's Gang, singing and spending time with kids. And He is Roy and Dale, making it a better place to live. You see, He works through those who love Him, and the good guys will always win, even if it is the last minute of the show. For God isn't late, but wants us all to come to repentance, and some of us are or were pretty bad hombres.

I still agree with Stymie on his wishes, but I am glad to know that Jesus is with me everyday. That everyday can be Saturday morning, it is up to you to make the right choice. This morning it was going way back-with Jesus we can look way ahead. A hope and a future. Think of how you looked forward to Saturday morning as a kid, and come to Him like one, as He asks. Save Him a seat on the sofa next to you, for there will never be a better time than now, with Jesus.

It's Saturday morning, do you know where your kids are? Aren't you glad Jesus does? Gotta go-the bad guys are coming back on-go gettum Roy!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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mission statements-the statement of your mission

Somewhere back in the 80's, someone came up with the idea of mission statements. In these a business would put its core values on paper, usually then framed and mounted so its patrons could see them. They would state for instance, "to be the best service department, to always fix your vehicle right the first time." And created a whole new set of rules-as I learned at Mercedes Benz, we couldn't always fix the cars, so we had to fix the customers. And in an age where the consumer started to rule, we weren't smart enough to recognize the Honda sign meant Honda, or the Chevy sign meant Chevy-we had to make the experience feel good. And even after the third or fourth try, the free details or loaner cars kept them coming back, feeling good about the person they dealt with, but not having the problem remedied. Somehow the old mantra taught by parents of "if you drop it pick it up, open it, close it, and turn it on, then turn it off" didn't apply. Unless you felt good about it. Then it was OK....

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the US of A, the French sent us the Statue of Liberty. In pieces, to be assembled, by US hands. Which took over three years, and cost as much to assemble as it did to build...not sure if that is a gift, or not. With the hallowed words on it, "give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free..." thus establishing our immigration policy via their gift. Which today many use to become legal US citizens, but that many take advantage of, and then aided by a powerless government, enter illegally. Usurping the meaning of the words "we the people..." Where a nation was once conceived in liberty, where all men were thought to be created equal, it has taken too many laws, too many dollars and too much heartache, when all we need to do is go back to the Declaration of Independence, and the Constitution. But a feel good mission statement from the French has opened up the door for what was never meant to be. Maybe we need to revisit our own Mission Statement, or send a gift to the French...with an invoice!

I get many e-mails from different ministries and churches. And if I don't know them, I check out their web site to find out about them. One that I read recently caught my attention, as it went into great detail outlining what they believed, and dealt with social as well as spiritual issues. And after reading it, I felt like because I didn't agree with all of them, that I would not be welcome. They took a pious approach, an I'm better than you, and you need to match up to us approach, just the opposite of many old line religions, who are inviting anyone in to boost their declining numbers, and inviting their sin inside, instead of just the sinner. After reading this church's 18+ beliefs, I was reminded of the law... and how it kills. And how the spirit gives life. I had a postcard once that stated, "don't brag about what a great lover you are, show me!" And I think about how Jesus took all the 600+ laws of Moses, and condensed them into two-love God with all your heart, and love your neighbor as yourself.

And an article by Ray Stedman put it into words I relate to-When religion becomes complex, it is falling away from Christ. Ask yourself, are you bound up within denominational rules, church regulations, and social mores that just add to more religion and less Jesus? Are you trendy and contemporary? Can you explain the gospel, in its simplicity, to a 5 year old? Are you seeking God, and listening to His spirit rather than following trends? Do you have more books about God lining your shelf, from studies, and know all about God-but do you not know Him personally? Can you in 25 words or less, tell us about your life in Jesus?

May I suggest John3:16, you know "for God so loved the world..." for your essay. For when you have the spirit of God, you will bear Godly fruit, and we won't need to know your opinion on each subject, we will know by your fruit that you walk with Jesus. Love, joy, peace. patience, goodness, kindness, meekness, longsuffering, and self control. Do these words describe your walk with Christ, or do you need a church's belief's to outline your walk? Does your life match up to the Mission Statement of John3:16? I know Christians who are Pro-Choice, who drink and smoke, who are divorced, and live in sin-trying to live under laws, only to fail. They have given their lives to Jesus-just never surrendered their lives-He is their savior, just not Lord. And they miss the blessings of God.

Which is where self control comes in-think of it as choice. The choices we make show others the Jesus in us. I choose to not live in sin, just as I choose to accept God's grace and His spirit. Remember God looks for unity in the spirit, not unity within a church or set of laws-it is all about Jesus! We change to be like Him-not the other way around.

So review your relationship with Jesus today, keep it fresh. Spend time at the cross, and don't forget to still pick up your cross to follow Him. You had to put something down to pick it up, make sure you are not still carrying the extra baggage. Make your life a statement with a mission...not just a feel good experience. For love in not an emotion, but a person-Jesus Christ.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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let there be light-an ode to Joseph Lucas

Long before Joseph Lucas, reinvented darkness for many a British motorcycle rider, God had said "let there be light." And since He is light, He spoke with great authority. Which sadly poor Joseph L. when trying to improve upon, became known as "the prince of darkness." And why it is rumored that the English drink warm beer-Lucas refrigerators. But God gave us light not only so we could ride at night, but so we can see during the day. Ever notice the light fades when a cloud gets between you and the sun? How many mechanics, after dropping a screw, ask for more darkness, so they can find it? Or how many of us have come to hate the new style light bulbs, that not only cost more, but give less light? And can only be manufactured off-shore, aka not in the US of A. Once again, trying to improve on what God called into being, and the reinforcing the legend of Joseph Lucas.

A few years back, while staying at the cottage next to the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel, Fr. Al called and told us to look at the light beam shining from the chapel. A multi-million dollar beam of light shone into the skies, so bright it gave the illusion of reflecting off the heavens. Impressive, and reverent. But an interesting thing occurred when we tried to photograph it-it doesn't show up on film. Yet we know it is there-where have seen and experienced it. And again, a loving God reminded us of the Holy Spirit-you know He is there, but you can't see Him. He doesn't show up except in the heart of the believer-which you believe by faith. Now I can see why Fr. Al left it on, and was so excited for us to see it!

In yet another instance of light, I have found that the faster you ride, the shorter the beam of your headlight-although I have never tried to outrun it, fear kicks in long before I run out of speed, if I am going 60, or 45, or 80, and the light gets shorter-will I outrun light? At 386,000 feet per second, why at 60 mph or 83 feet per second, does light get shorter? Joseph, do you know? And again, who figured out how fast the twinkling of an eye is? I read that it is 1/240,000 of a second-again the speed of light. Consider that when you think you will still have time to turn to Jesus when you hear the trumpet announcing the rapture. And sound only travels at Mach 1! Is it possible God is trying to tell you something? Who would know light better than He who is light?

So, where I is my walk with God? How do I tell, before others tell me? Think of your shadow, where do you see it? Is it behind you-then the light of God is in front, with you following. Is it in front of you? Then you are ahead of God, His light behind you, it is hard riding into the shadows, or into the dark. But what if there is no shadow at all? Then you are truly immersed in God, for His light surrounds you-and no matter which way you go, you are in the spirit-led by God! That is why we walk with-and He walks with us. Remember Adam, in the garden...it took light, before darkness entered in.

A good reminder when you wish to share Jesus. We are told we are the light of the world-but only when God, again who is light, shines out of us. So let Him shine-keep your high beams down-no need blinding someone who cannot see by barraging them with your lack of control of spiritual knowledge. Let God be that light, and discover with His leading you can see the path, since He is a light to your feet. Too bright-you get reflections. Not enough-darkness. Not abiding in His light-shadows. Close your eyes and think about that a minute. Now open them into the brightness-it takes a few seconds to acclimate, to regain your sight-your words, although well meaning may have that effect on others. God's love won't.

Something to consider next time you can't find something, or drop that part, or can't see where you are going. Put down your flashdark, and follow God's light. You may not see where you are going at first, but once you see where you are, you can follow better, where the light leads. And let Him guide you...out of darkness and into His light.

How will you know...there was a time that only the shadow knows! Better yet-ask God! The source of the light that He is. Is it a coincidence that people notice our bikes more when our headlights are on?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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the brotherhood

When I first started riding, I was amazed at how all the other riders waved to me-so I waved back. We didn't know each other, but just the fact that we rode gave us something in common-a brotherhood. It didn't matter what brand, what size, or where we were going, we waved. And generally smiled too-in this age before the Bell Star full face helmet. We were excited to see someone else like us, and it would carry on until we met the next rider. Even cooler was when you would stop and see another bike, you didn't have to search for the rider, somehow we were drawn to each other. One time sticks out in my mind, I was on my new BMW R60/5, when a grizzled old biker came up. I saw his Harley parked on the other side of the lot, and he had come over to see me when he saw mine. He didn't care I didn't ride a Harley, he told me, "man that's the Cadillac, that must be a great ride. How far have you ridden on it?" And as we talked all that mattered was we rode. No politics, brand prejudices, or social prejudices-just motorcycles. Man how some things have changed since 1972! And it still carries on today-to a greater extent.

Last spring when on a trip with Theresa in our truck, she kept joking how I would wave to other bikers-it was a reaction, even though I was "cage" bound. Big surprise, no one waved back. But I still felt connected to them, and like many search me out when stopped, to tell me they ride, although car bound that day, we have motorcycles as our common bond. Anything just adds to the conversation, for us it is all about the bikes. As it should be.

But sadly as our brotherhood grew, BMW people became snobs, as did Harley riders. As did Triumph riders and anything Japanese. We grew within our brands, but not within our brotherhood. And we all suffer for it. I find that us older riders are not as bad, as Spud from Biggs Harley Davidson tells me, "we have a common disease-motorcycles." So if you see this Triumph/Suzuki/ al brand rider walking up to you, I am one of us. and I expect that you are too. If not, I would like to welcome you to the brotherhood. Sport bike rider-I have one. Vintage bike-is 1978 old enough for you young guys? Current model-I ride new bikes for Triumph's press fleet. Plus my Bonneville, and my Tiger-years before Adventure Bikes became desirable. We used to call them dual sports. Now suddenly I'm trendy. I ride-isn't that cool enough?

I have also been a Christian before it was trendy, and before Christians rode motorcycles. And my appearance sometimes surprises church folk, t-shirts and jeans at church? Long hair, and you show up on a motorcycle? You mean you don't? How do you think I feel-I have to put up with you religious types? And in doing so see a side of Jesus you don't-loving those stuck under the law, saved, but not living in the spirit. You see we too have a brotherhood in Christ, that surpasses anything else. But we can learn from bikers and love and respect each other despite our differences. I know, love, and ride with Baptists, Catholics, Lutherans, and with people from Calvary Chapel. And we ride on Triumphs, Harleys, and Hondas. It don't matter. But while we share the commonality of motorcycles, we really share the commonality of Jesus-we are brothers! And I hope it rubs off on the religious types. Next time you feel so holy, remember it was the "holy" Pharisees that had Jesus arrested. His love was too much of their rules. You got rules-I have morals. Man made your rules-God gave me His love and His morals. No I don't want to trade, but I will share. Will you let me love you, and get loved back, and really show the world what Christianity is all about. I will still love you without your permission-respect remains to be earned.

So next time you see a motorcycle, think of me. And then think of Jesus. Who loves us both. We are family. He is both our Lord and Savior. Standing closer than a brother. He understands those who ride, and those who don't. But He understands freedom better than us, with no prejudices. In heaven there will be no denominational neighborhoods-we will all be neighbors. And no brand specific shops either. Now if the Lord's prayer tells us "on earth as it is in heaven," do you think a Harley rider can wave at a Triumph rider? Or a Honda rider? Who might just be a Baptist? Start showing love today for your fellow rider by waving back-or waving first. Don't ride, we'll pray for you. And maybe you can love us back despite the leather and the bugs in our teeth as we smile because of our freedom in Jesus. And maybe, just maybe help me overcome my prejudice against those in suits and ties. No matter what you ride, or how you dress, put Jesus first. And don't forget to say Hi! When we have Jesus in common, we have everything. Now that's brotherhood!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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what happens when the season ends

Finally, the day you have waited for all winter has arrived, and the pitchers and catchers arrive at spring training. After a long winter with no baseball, you finally have a new reason to live. And as you go to spring training, you catch up with old friends, and review with each other what you did all winter without baseball in anticipation of the new season. Opening day comes, and you are there-like always, and other season ticket holders renew acquaintances with you-and the season opener begins the long awaited season.

You endure May, June, July, and the dog days of August, hoping some day, some how your team rallies from 15 games out, that would be nice, but it is about the game more. Winning would just be an added bonus. Then it's after Labor Day, and soon the last two weeks of the season are upon you. Season one is almost over, but you are rewarded with a second season, the playoffs, and you are excited, even if your team isn't included. And then you can't believe the World Series is over, and another year has passed. Winter is here...and you look forward to next spring. The season is over.

It is late September, and you start to notice the leaves changing colors, and starting to fall. The riding season is almost over, and you plan on not missing one weekend that remains. Even up early when the temp is below 40, you know that 60 will feel warm soon. And that soon all the honey do's that waited until winter, will now get done-as long as they are inside. With the exception of an Indian summer weekend, or nice day without snow. But the season is over, and soon you drive down to the shop to visit, meeting your friends, somehow different without helmet head and a line of bikes parked outside. It is winter, and you wonder how many years until spring finally arrives.

But each spring, no matter how excited you are, you notice some are missing. Where' Pete? He was always here for spring training? Somehow it won't be opening day with Bill and Patty...and you realize that another season has ended, just as as new one begins. That certain friends who made it worthwhile won't be there...that their season of life has ended. You quit waiting for Gerald to show up at the diner, and you miss his bike parked outside. You start to invite others to sit where he did with you, they ride, and are cool-but it's not the same. Your season of waiting has arrived, but their season never did. Through death, sickness, or inability, they are gone. And it makes an impact on you. You remember them, and miss them, but you start the season without them. Having to make adjustments to the new, knowing the old normal is gone...and wondering, what will the new normal be? How long until my season ends, and they miss me?

God has promised us many things, among them a life rich and abundant in Jesus Christ. He is there for every season, every ride, and every home opener. He knows we won't be, and shows us how valuable each day is, and not to look to tomorrow, but enjoy today. Don't wish for a time when things will be better, enjoy what you have now. For He also promises no man tomorrow, and so many live for that time that never arrives. Clinging to hope, neglecting today, but never seeing the next spring. We know that believers enter heaven-a season that has no end, but those who reject the gospel have an even longer season in hell. But what about those who are left to endure the next season? Who ministers to them, and sees them through?

Jesus also told us to weep with them that weep. It is normal to mourn, yet some don't because of pride, or just because they won't. It isn't cool. Not normal. Their old normal is shattered, and they are depressed, or misled while looking for that new normal. Unwilling to let go of the past, they live an unsure future...and it doesn't have to be that way. I have been that close to death, and when talking with those that lost loved ones, or beat death for now, we have a different view on life. We look for that new normal, and know we can't go back. We have no chance for the past...but in Christ we have a great future, and a great right now. If only we let God lead us. For the same God that gave us baseball and motorcycles, has created other things for our pleasure-number one among them a relationship with Him. Something you can have with your other seasons, but now He may be all you have to cling too. And will be and is everything you need.

Find some time today to do those honey do's. For a time may come when honey isn't. Don't wait until the next ride, explore those new roads today. Eat that meal where you always wanted to. Not tomorrow, or next time-NOW! And find time to call and spend with those families who have lost someone. Or have had a life changing experience, or can't get out. You may be three miracle they need to bring them life. How exciting to be given some surprise tickets. To be treated to dinner. Or to hear the roar of motorcycles parked out front. And find a new normal in your own life that doesn't revolve around you. Include God, and watch as all games this season have a new meaning, and each ride more excitement. Watch as He adds life to your style, and a new and better normal awaits those whose lives have changed. Be involved as God would have you, and "Play ball!" What a better excuse to ride than to brighten someone else's day! It starts with you and Jesus. He has His ticket, and His bike is fueled. Let's ride!

Why be bored or bummed, when a new and exciting normal is calling! Start now...remember that promise about tomorrow? Better yet remember God's promises about today!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew 25biker.blogspot.com

secret millionaires-with God it is no secret

I once watched a show called Secret Millionaire while channel surfing. Not a show I would normally watch, or stay up for, but it caught my attention. The premise is a millionaire goes undercover in a poverty stricken neighborhood. They don't tell who or what they are, but grow into the situation. And they find many people doing so much with so little, and find out that although they are rich in money, or valuables, they are poor in values. Something we all can relate to, only pride keeps us from a full disclosure. But at the end, they come clean, and admit who they are, and give these "good Samaritans" money to carry on with their works. To aid in their cause, and many times it is a blessing. I tend to look between the lines, and see the real problem, or how money doesn't always solve problems-just look at our Federal Government. It takes a heart, and a vision, that these people may or may not know they have to minister, and a reliance upon God-who just like the rains, His grace falls on the just and the unjust.

I have known people over the years who have had rich relatives, the proverbial rich uncle. Who in times of need has always been there. Benevolent, caring, and loving-checkbook in hand. I have had the benefit of being given when needed, and blessed abundantly by family, friends, and others. Really blessed when I came to know that all blessings come from God-sometimes they just take different routes, and different messengers. But the source is always the same-God! So why do we look for the proverbial rich uncle, or to the benevolence of suffering friends, when we have a rich father we can go to at any time?

When God gave me a vision for ministry years ago, He promised to meet all my needs. When advised by others in ministry to send out support letters, God told me no. He said "if you ask for it, it is not a gift. And I like to give good gifts." And so He has, we do more with less than ever before, and continue to do so to this day. When I was sick and had open heart surgery, God provided even before we could ask-or pray. Although this caught us by surprise, it was no surprise to God, and He still meets all our needs. When Theresa mentioned we would need a place to stay, a friend told her of another friend with a house we could use-free! Pat called it"God's House" and was blessed we could take advantage of it. Not knowing she was a secret millionaire. When Tina put us on a prayer list, we know her in Escondido, but was living in Phoenix, a friend in Tennessee saw it, called her friend in Albuquerque, and they brought us meals. And then another friend of hers did also. More secret millionaires-and blessed servants of God. From the man who rented us a car, and waived the $250 drop off fee to the pharmacist who gave us the New Mexico resident discount-saving us over $200, these secret millionaires were put in the right place at the right time by God. In some cases when our needs were known, we had to use discretion on which offer to take-such is our loving God.

So to all you secret millionaires out there, a huge thanks. Our prayer-that you were as blessed giving as we were receiving. So take heart-which now has a much deeper meaning to me, and allow God to meet your needs. He wants to, and through Jesus all things will be met according to His riches and glory. Let Him decide how to meet the need-but be willing to accept the way He shows you. As we learned His resources are boundless, and came from many people we never had met or would not have expected. Sadly some we had expected to help, never answered the call. We also learned that "call me if you need anything" took the person to answer the phone when we called. Not so with God. From Dal driving Theresa to Albuquerque-only 250 miles that night, to Pastor Pat giving great counsel, and having his ministry offer us a car, to the hospital and the free motel rooms, PJ of PJ's Triumph, and so many other little things we saw from God's hand, we not only renewed our faith, but stepped into obedience-and the blessings continue.

But you must let them. Like salvation, which is by grace, to fully experience God's grace you must trust Him. Then you must obey-no matter what your past experiences tell you-don't lean on your own understanding of a situation. Look to the cross-where the victory was won, and rejoice in it! And watch as the story of Jesus Christ becomes real in your life, and a part of your life. Don't ever say no to God, or to a secret millionaire He has sent to bless you. You not only rob yourself of the blessing, but rob those also who choose to bless you-in obedience to God!

So to all of you who love God-thanks for being a secret millionaire. Bet you didn't know you were. And remember, it doesn't always mean money-letters from inmates who missed my letters when I was sick were a priceless blessing. Phone calls, e-mails, and messages from some who I haven't seen in 25-40 years meant more than a big bank account. So let your richness shine through in love, just like Jesus does. Who by the way owned nothing-remember He had to borrow food, to bless others, rode on a borrowed donkey into Jerusalem, and even was laid in a borrowed tomb. But what He gave could not be measured in dollars. So don't you either-the riches of Jesus in you are just waiting to pay a dividend-let them! Maybe today is the day that we see you as that "secret millionaire" that God so lovingly provides to meet someone else's need. According to His riches and glory....

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25bike.blogspot.com

the same, only different

Believe it or not, we are all more individual than we care to admit. But believe it or not, we are even more alike-and we hide from admitting it. It seems that the more that we desire to not conform with the ways of the world, that we all become the same, just different. Not right or wrong, just different, a concept hard to accept, and even harder to live with.

As I watched people celebrating, yes celebrating via dancing and singing, at the Feast of Trumpets Celebration, so many from other churches were attending. And my heart was happy to see Jew and Gentile, Baptist and Lutheran, and those who just love Jesus together. In the spirit. But I was also saddened, thinking ahead how when they return to their own church, and own religious dogma, they will not be able to share about the Feast. It will fall on deaf ears, or rather a dead spirit, because they are not in it. They are stuck in a fellowship where the pastor, or church board, or denomination sets the tone-not God, yet they are family in Christ. They have the same amount of grace given to them, yet they don't accept it, and miss out on the blessings of God.

I know certain women, Godly women, who love the Lord, but sadly have husbands who are not saved. And go out to church or Bible study against their will, never fully enjoying the fruit of the spirit. Who cannot go home and share what God is doing, for it falls on deaf ears. Even worse is the husband who is saved, yet doesn't encourage his wife. They are one, as God has made them, yet two very individual people. And when I look at them, I wonder how the wife would blossom with just a little encouragement from her husband, and how he doesn't know the love he is missing from his wife.

When Paul wrote to not be unequally yoked, he meant more than just marriage. He meant relationships at church, in business, and friends. We tend to follow what makes us feel good, trusting our feelings. Which for me will let me down, how many bad dates did I endure because of that? Or rides that should have been blessed. but weren't, just because I was not equally yoked with the group. But when I encountered another Christian, I was excited and relieved all at once, someone to share with. Be careful-you may not fit in with your peer group, but trust God to let Him guide you.

Is the ministry you are involved in more of a social club? Ask God to guide you. We minister much more effectively, and joyfully when led by God. Let the spirit guide, not rules. Is your church stuck in doctrine, wanting to reach out more to God, but afraid of what the congregation will think? Trust God. Is your marriage suffering because you go your way instead of God's? Turn to Him, let Jesus be the most important part of your marriage, and watch as you love your wife more, and she loves you more. You can become the husband she needs, and she will become the wife you desire. When you give it to God. Ditch the rules, and obtain morals. Only obtainable from God. They will reflect in you, via the fruit of the spirit-and love, then joy, then peace and patience, goodness, kindness, long suffering, meekness, and self control will dictate your life and decisions. You will experience more of God based on Him, rather than your emotions or feelings. Let God's grace surround you today. You set the example.

You are not going to change anyone's heart-only Jesus can do that. But you can be an encouragement, not a deterrent. You can show God's love freely, not worried what anyone thinks when in the spirit. It is pride that restrains you-worrying about what others may say about you. Maybe we should be more concerned about what God says about us. We may not like what we hear-but God loves us all the same, sinner and saint. His way of love, not ours. See the difference already.

As Jesus told us, pray "thy will be done, thy kingdom come..." let the spirit of the Lord guide you today. And watch the difference it makes. He will send people to bless you, and you to bless others. He will change hearts, and you will see fruit in your life that you only may have heard of. For where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty... Give it up to Jesus, and tell others by your actions and attitudes about Him. Words will be available from Him when needed. You may be the one in your church or club that starts the change, just by being who you are in Jesus. Be the person you can be in the Lord. Independent on Him, accepting His grace, and seeing it reflected in His love for others.

God will send someone your way today who needs His love. Don't step over them like the rich man did to Lazarus. Stop, look, and listen-like we used to do for trains. And watch as blessings appear, and others see them too. As your spouse wants to be with you more, as your fellowship grows, and your ministry blossoms. Not based on rules or laws, but on the spirit.

And soon you will be able to celebrate Jesus in your life, like the Feast of Trumpets, and look forward to that day we hear the trumpet call us home. As for now....give it over to God...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew24biker.blogspot.com

a service with a smile

They were called service stations because at one time that was what you received-service. You would pull into the service drive, your arrival being announced by the bell from driving over the black air hose. Then you would be greeted by someone who asked what did you need, and while pumping your gas, would check the oil, check your tires, and top off the fluids. All included in the price per gallon, and it didn't matter who you were or what you drove, you got the same great service. No matter the weather, even in the rain. You never left the comfort of your car, or had to miss the end of your favorite song. And to top it all off, many stations gave away Green Stamps with your purchase, plus whatever the oil company was using as a promotional tool. It could be anything from glasses, to towels, to extra stamps-all part of the service.

And we learned early from our dads which gas was best. No need for Sunoco 260 in a Rambler, when Good Gulf would do. Or to stay away from Esso, the rumor was it left green deposits in the carburetor. And even when we went up to buy gas for the mower, the attendant would come out for the 25 cents worth the can would hold. Even hearing the bell ring would have them respond, even if it was just us getting air for the Schwinn, Rollfast, or JC Higgins we rode. It was all about the service, and the station owners knew us, and our parents. And even on our motorcycles, when we only took 75 cents to fill up, we got the same great service. With a show of respect, them handing us the hose after making sure it wouldn't drip-no real attendant, or real biker ever let anyone else fill their own ride. Sadly today these are memories.

We don't call them service stations anymore. They are called gas stations, for no service is provided. No bells, no greeting, checking oil or the washing of windows. No free gifts, Green Stamps are no part of American folklore, and the only one greeting you is usually begging for money. While all business is done either by the cashier behind a bulletproof glass cubicle, or you use you credit card at the pump. Where before it was an event, now it is to be endured. Where sometimes before the attendant would go over your $2 request by 15 cents-almost a gallon extra, today the last few drops of prepaid fuel take as long as the first 10 gallons. Service administered accurately, with courtesy being exhibited by the machine asking you if you want a receipt. Another part of what is referred to as progress, and another part of people meeting face to face eliminated.

Churches still have services, and they are referred to as a service rightly so. You get greeted, get to worship, visit, get taught, and then a chance to be prayed for individually if needed. In a loving caring environment, for most churches. And afterwards fellowship with others-making it an experience you look forward to, and one that is rewarding. Time spent with God, and His people.

Last night we had our annual Feast of Trumpets celebration at Maranatha Chapel. From the schofars being blown, to the singing, the dancing, and all being started with a free meal for over 1700 people, it was a true time of celebration. A time of joy in the Lord, and a time to fellowship. Helping me to redefine fellowship. For true fellowship, koininea, the Greek word, means fellowship with God, not the gossip that precedes or follows church. It is about God, and spending time with Him, sharing with others. A true time where you are blessed-and a time when all yours needs in Christ Jesus are met. In Hebrew the celebration is related to the rapture of the church-think of it as a dress rehearsal for heaven, for Jesus will call us home with the sound of a trumpet.

And for those left behind, no service. No joy, and the absence of God's people. No true fellowship, those left will be left alone to serve themselves, choosing not to serve a loving God. And He honors their choice by not taking them to heaven-they didn't want Him here, so He leaves them behind, rather than burden them with His presence.

Some day true believers will here the trumpet, just like the attendant heard the bell, and we will be called home. A service like no other, with the ultimate free gift, Jesus is our presence. Our oil, the Holy spirit will be overflowing, our view clear as a freshly washed windshield, and all our needs will be met. God still meets us today at the pump if you will-He is present and asking what you need, and wants to supply it. He is at the door waiting-what is your answer? If your view of God sees Him behind bulletproof glass, or as a machine waiting to take your card, you don't know Him. Pull up to Him today-you don't need to ask for full service-that is all He provides. Let Him into your life, and celebrate His love. Fellowship with other true believers, and enjoy all the free benefits. He has already provided the reasons to serve Him, let Him serve you also.

Now will that be regular or premium? If you have to ask, you don't know the premium God I do. Fill up with Jesus today, which by the way just may be a rehearsal for heaven. And like any wedding, the rehearsal dinner is fun, the food abundant, and the fellowship rich.

I miss the old time service stations-don't miss the eternal God. Trust Him today. Where all your needs are met. Now that's service with a smile.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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