In Matthew 25 Jesus confronts church people, who claim they ministered to
Him. But in effect they only did things to draw attention to themselves. True
ministry is of God, about God, and involves God-sometimes you are just there.
And just like Jesus did, it always points to God. For an example, these lying
evangelists who desire of you to get blessed-grace is about Jesus, and not
you-it is what He did and who He is-not you. You cannot earn or persuade God.
It wouldn't be grace. And God, true to His word, tells us ALL things work
together for the glory of God-not just good or convenient or even just involving
Christians. So here we go, some of those involved, who God allowed to bless
us-working independently but together with God's perfect plan. Prepare to be
amazed.
First-this is all about Jesus, Theresa and I were just characters. For
God's glory and our benefit. And all these people didn't act on their own, but
under God's guidance, even though they may not know it or admit it. God truly
has things under control, and orders our steps.
Our friend Dal Mize, our first pastor, great friend, and like a dad to us.
We were staying with him in Durango, and he kept us calm, and focused in the
face of danger. He told me many times, "I am here for Theresa, don't worry,"
and I didn't. How many 76 year olds do you know who will drive 250 miles at
night, to take your wife to meet you after Life flight has landed? God knew-and
so do we.
Lucia, Theresa's sister, although they had hadn't talked in years, when her
sister called, flew to Albuquerque to assist. And her other sisters paid for
the plane flight. Lucia sat with her and consoled, prayed, and loved on her
throughout the whole ordeal. Going way beyond anything you could have done on
her own. I hope she was as blessed as we were-even more.
My sons, Andrew, who was stuck home in bed, and then had shoulder surgery.
He sent out prayer requests and updates, and helped Theresa handle all the
business at home. And now is closer to God than ever-I can never say how proud
I am of him.
Christopher, who got back from a gig in Spain, and flew to see me. He gave
me strength and aided his mom. Debbie, one of my nurses, paid us the ultimate
compliment, "your son loves you very much." A special thanks to Jessica, who
selflessly paid for his flight.
Walt and Pat, who owned the home we stayed at for a month in Rio Rancho.
We never met them, and they were so glad to have us stay there-reminding us it
was God's house, and to be blessed. We still are. And Pete and Shirley, their
neighbors, who were there when needed. A big thanks!
To PJ who owns PJ's Triumph, and who I have known casually for about six
years. When he saw me with my heart pillow, asked who was my surgeon. When I
told him, he replied, "Peter is my best friend, and neighbor. He told me all
about you-said it was the hardest surgery he ever performed." Then told me to
hang out whenever I wanted at the shop, and when cleared to ride, he would loan
me a bike. And to Aaron and Dylan who showed great friendship, and compassion
to us. Just curious, what are the chance of Peter and PJ being best friends,
and coming together under these circumstances in a city of 625,000? A
cardiologist and a biker? IN God's plan-100%!
To Peter our cardiologist, head of cardiology at Presbyterian. God had the
best surgeon, the best nurses and staff, and had everything under control.
Dalana, our friend who works for Hilton, who got us a room under their
Friends and Family deal the last two nights before we got home. To Tina in
Phoenix, who put us on a prayer list, that was read in Tennessee, who called her
friend in Albuquerque who brought meals-Jan. Whose friend Brandy brought us two
other meals, and who we got to minister to about her son. Still doubt in
miracles?
To all the folks at Monroe's who fussed over us, and other places we ate
who made sure we were fed correctly. To my first co-worker in New Mexico from
1975, who walked by me in Santa Fe Harley-and we got to visit-he is the Sales
Manager. Coincidence? After over 30 years?
I have always said if you need something done, ask a biker. But before we
could, Ned told Ken they would drive to Durango to pick up my bike and trailer
it back. Cool, you say. They are in Black Sheep, Harley Davidsons for Christ,
and I ride a Triumph! Talk about Good Samaritans! A true example of true
ministry, if you see a need fill it. And they did in love. Good thing God
isn't brand specific. How do you ever thank someone for something like that?
Thanks guys-you rock.
To all Black Sheep who donated money? Tears of thanks.
To Melissa who acted as our "attorney" in our absence. It's time I rethink
my views of attorneys. You and your bosses are one of a kind.
To all those who fed us, Glen and Penny, Cathy and Jim, Nick, Ellen, and so
many others-we never ate alone.
I could go on, but like John says, if all the things Jesus did were
written, no library could hold them. In our lives, it is time for that new
library.
Special thanks to the pastors and staff at Maranatha, and Calvary Chapel
Escondido. Way beyond the call-what example you set to the community at large.
To the Kollasch family-we can never thank you enough. True ministry and a true
witness of Jesus Christ.
Hebrews 13 is the faith hall of fame, this is mine. Take some time to
thank God today, and set up your own hall. Worship Jesus like never before.
And watch as you become alive in the scriptures-may He find favor in all you
do.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com
if you weren't mentioned, we still thank you-and more importantly God
knows!