MATTHEW 25 BIKER

are you sure 5 motorcycles are enough?

2012-02-15T08:09:00.000-08:00

There is a fine line between lust and passion. Symptoms may be similar, but the heart knows the difference, for passion comes from God. And in turn is returned to Him via worship. Putting Him first, instead of living for our own desires. For instance I am chastised by others from time to time because our garage is full of motorcycles-7 right now, #8 comes home tomorrow. Five are mine, two Andrew's, and one we keep for a friend. And I am asked, "do you really need five motorcycles, you can only ride one at a time?" So I would like to address that question, since the last time I was asked you could tell the person was jealous. Or indignant-somehow it just wasn't right for God to bless us.

God has given us a passion for motorcycles. And for riding them, and for being out among the motorcycling community to minister. And since there are many moods, each bike represents a different mood. The Street Triple is fast. Just the basics, and can go 0-100 in less than 8 seconds. Read this paragraph again, and I just went 100! Great brakes and great handling, too. And all the fast guys know what it is, and so I can fit in with them and visit. When they stop-this thing called self preservation keeps me from riding at their level.

There is no way to be anonymous on the Bonneville. People stop us, roll down car windows, or come and tell us stories about how they had one once. "It was hard to start, bad electrics, and it leaked oil-but boy I miss that bike! Wish I had it back!" For the memories that go with it are deep in people. We have heard about marriages, college days, and girlfriends all because I am on one. Precious stories, we never get tired of hearing them. They are right, this bike is special-I can ride it 100 feet and find myself smiling. Fun is the word you are looking for here.

Orange County Vintage Bike has a cool show the second Sunday of each month. So when I ride my 1978 Suzuki GS1000e there, I am among guys who remember it-and how we wanted one back then, but money, careers, and family stood in our way. More memories to share, bench racing to do, and I get to visit with a different group of motorcyclists-guys like me who have the same disease called motorcycles. And I am amazed at how far technology has come in 34 years, and how I am not the only thing that got older-but not old.

Seems we are ahead of the curve with the Tiger-an adventure bike, which is very popular today. When the road ends, the ride doesn't have to-we used to call them dual-sports. Set up for touring, we have accumulated 78,000 miles since 2006, and been in 48 states-only riding it 6 weeks a year! It is the one bike that is always ready for a trip, and set up for both of us. From Maine to Savannah, to Daytona Beach, to the Upper Peninsula, to the Columbia River Gorge, and so much in between-it has seen America, and so have we! Meeting so many who we never would in a car, God has blessed us with the passion to travel, and then allowed it to happen!

But bike #5 is special. It too is a Bonneville, but its rider is Theresa. You see she rides her own sometimes, and we just back from a 400 mile weekend. She has ridden over 45,000 miles in 6 years. And she gets to ride her own ride, and we get to ride together-just on separate bikes this time. And she gets to talk to many who are amazed that she, a woman rides, that she knows about her bike, and has done 500 mile days. Like her plate says-"GET OVER IT-GIRLS RIDE TOO!" And riding with your best friend, whether on the seat behind or the bike ahead, is a great blessing. You see God wants to bless us-so we let Him! Scripture tells us that He gives you the desire of your heart, and with us, HE is the desire of our hearts. Then all things get added-and He supplies them. Not to covet, but to enjoy. Not to worship, but to use to honor Him, and to be used to minister to others. He calls it grace-I call it fantastic!

The Apostle Paul understood this, too. He made Jesus first, and became all things to all people. He went to them, like Jesus did, and spoke their language. He took care of himself, never asked for food or money, and watched as God guided him like no other man since Jesus. From jail to shipwreck, and all between-his passion for Jesus showed to all, and made his witness effective and believable. And just like Jesus, we get to eat with many who churches might make sit in the back, or not let in at all. We get to see little kids in hospitals excited to sit on bike. We see old ladies take their first ride at 80! We see God's beauty as we travel this wonderful country, and we see His grace as He allows us to do it. And the time alone with Him while riding is precious. For it is a passion we have for Jesus, and not the things of the world. He just puts them in perspective, and when you seek Him first, He truly adds all other things to your life. And you own them-they don't own you.

So maybe 5 bikes isn't enough? More people to see, roads to ride, and the gospel to share. For when God gives you a vision, He has already worked out a way to fulfill it. So don't let the jealous, or Pharisee types get you down. Ask them along. Invite them to ride with you. To experience the things of God firsthand, instead of through some gossip or bitter ones who are lustful. Let the greatness of God shine through your life and ride, and watch as you are blessed more times than you can count. Watch as others are drawn to you, and want to know about your joy. And take the time to share Jesus in your own words, to many who would never hear them in church. Jesus taught in the chapel, but ministered out on the streets. Where the people are-and where the motorcycles are. 2000 years ago He knew a time was coming when we would want to ride. That time is now. Invite Him along-let the joy begin!

Live your best for Christ. Enjoy the blessings of sharing His love with others. Maybe 5 bikes aren't enough-you see there are seven days, and God rested on the seventh, leaving six. Maybe God is telling me something, could it be the time to buy another? Like I said, so many roads, so few bikes, and so little time. No matter the ride, enjoy it in Jesus. Put Him first! And keep Him there. And as He becomes the desire of your heart, watch as the blessings overflow in your life. Joy unspeakable-and full of motorcycles! And the half has never yet been ridden!

And to the one asking is 5 enough, seek God for your own walk. Don't envy mine. Ask God for a passion that only He can fulfill. From the heart. You'll know. And so will we. It's that personal.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

sin-the mark of the beast

2012-02-14T08:26:00.000-08:00

Gregor Samsa woke up and noticed something different. It was him. He had fallen asleep the night before normally, but when he woke up noticed something very different about himself. He was a cockroach! He had a hard shell for a body, and now six appendages instead of four! And as he laid there wondering if this was a bad dream, he noted his mind was still the same-except now he could not speak, but only make other cockroach sounds, which might only attract other cock roaches-and that grossed him out. A man's mind, sharp as ever, but in the body of a cockroach. By the way, Good Morning!

Such is the story, The Metamorphosis by Franz Kafka. A European writer from the early 20th century, who wrote short stories. Thought provoking, a pre-Rod Serling type of writer. And among them was The Penal colony. In it we are told of a machine designed by the commandant to print/tattoo the prisoner's sentence on their body. After a hasty trial-no one was ever told if they were guilty or innocent-all were found guilty, they were laid in the bed of the machine, which was cotton to catch the blood, and the designer would tell the harrow what to print. A cotton gag was also placed in the mouth of the guilty, to prevent him form biting his tongue, and for catching more blood. Finally the harrow would move up and down with many needles, and print the crime the prisoner was found guilty of. Then the crime was printed on them-which sometimes they didn't even know! Until after six hours they are finally dead! And in this example, his crime was "HONOR YOUR SUPERIORS!" A crime we all fall guilty of, aren't glad you are not a character in a Kafka novel? But real life under the law can resemble his story, or even worse. Did you know the Federal Government has stopped printing the book of US laws? There are so many of them, that has become too expensive, and the man in charge of it claims each day we each break at least three laws-without knowing it! And we call this the land of the free, and the home of the brave! And yet we still elect more "lawmakers"? How about some "gracemakers!"

We are all born into sin, Romans 3:23 tells us, but God offers us mercy through Jesus Christ. He protects us with His grace, and any sin we were guilty of is washed away. Called justification, as if it had never occurred. It is our choice to choose Jesus, or reject Him. and no matter who the person was on earth, his income, health, wealth, or position-we all face the judgment day! Mercifully those of us whose names are written in the Book of Life are found not guilty! Sadly so many "self righteous types" will be found guilty. And God takes no joy in the death of the sinner. You see it was all about them, they were in control, they didn't need God, in fact they will claim they never sinned at all! And unlike court proceedings today, we have a Judge who is righteous, and the guilty just like in The Penal Colony will know perfectly their sin, and its just reward-only they will be in eternal damnation for eternity! Too late to change-so why not do it now?

Hell was not created for man, but for Satan and his angels. But when man chose to follow Satan in the garden, we all became eligible for hell. Only in Jesus is there salvation! And hell is described as a place of weeping and gnashing of teeth. Outer darkness, no light, but a fire that always burns. And in total isolation away from God-just like they wanted it-their choice on earth was to not choose Jesus! Even in death God will honor your choice to reject Him.

Ah, heaven. Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor mind imagined the things of heaven. Too beautiful for words, a place of no sin, and the presence of God-forever. You would think the choice was that easy. AND IT IS! For Gregory Samsa his metamorphosis was one of a physical nature. For those who believe it is a spiritual nature. For the spirit never dies! and it is your choice now, today, to choose where to spend eternity. HELL, in agony forever, because you rejected Jesus, or heaven, because you accepted Him. That's the gospel-so easy anyone can do it!

What is your choice? Saying nothing is saying no. Someday your sin will find you out, and you will wish you had turned to God. Consider the choice-mercy vs. damnation. Choose soon, for no man is promised tomorrow. And even becoming a cockroach is better than hell!

These are the facts. Found in the Bible-some 6 billion of them printed. Making God the most successful author of how to books ever. And how to get to heaven is included! Pick one up today, or ask a Christian about this heaven thing. You have been told your possible sentence, unlike the man in the Penal Colony machine. His sin caused him death, only in Jesus can that sin be washed away. Painlessly, no needles, and no more death sentence. No more laws-only grace. Can you think of any better time than now to trust God?

The machines are waiting for those who die without Jesus. I prefer to be found sinless in Him. Those nine inch nails He took for me are far superior to any needles I ever want!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

fun is riding your own ride...on someone else's bike

2012-02-13T07:45:00.000-08:00

Nice people up at Simi Valley Cycles, so when out riding this weekend, and Theresa needed her tires checked, we stopped in. They immediately got to checking them, and while we were waiting some of the guys in the shop saw what I was riding, a 2012 Speed Triple R, not available to the dealers for at least another month. And one guy was real suspicious of how did I get one? So while his friends were ragging on him for not having the latest info-seems he was the sales manager, I showed him the Motorcycle Distributor plates from Georgia, and he felt better knowing it was a press bike. But after they all gave their opinions, and asking how did it handle, etc, we all left friends. and even without riding it, the talk that night would be what they saw that morning, a gift of a bike not yet here, but on its way-and now they really wanted one even more. Didn't even ask to sit on it-just the fact that they saw one was enough to keep the conversation alive for the next few days.

Which is a fun thing I get to do, riding so many Press Bikes for Triumph. But I was really glad the fast shoes in the shop didn't come out, and ask "is it faster? Does it handle better? Can you tell a difference in the brakes?" You see it has over $7000 of race suspension and brakes on it, which may be nice on a track-my tracks consist mostly of freeways to get to the curves. But I can tell you this-it handles incredible, and yes, the brakes should be the standard for all bikes! I'll leave the race track for guys like Mickey, Ray, and Curtis to sort out-for me this is 1000 miles of bliss. Every once in a while it is fun to be special-or at least be on a bike that is!

When I ride a bike that is better than I am, I have to remind myself to ride my own ride, always good advice, no matter the bike, the road, or the rider. I haven't got in over my head too many times, but it is nice to have a bike under you that can forgive your moments of talent indiscretion. But mostly I ride my own ride, faster than some, slower than most, but I rather have fun than try to impress some squid and end up in a ditch. While some guys I know look for that extra tenth of a second per lap, I rather ride an extra 50 miles that day. Each within our own little riding world. We call it fun, and when we each try to invade each other's world, we lose the fun. Most people I know think 100 mile trip is way too much. We ride 150 miles for lunch. I have friends who will spend all day at a track dialing in their suspension, I rather go places. But I get it, so I wish them well, support their efforts by encouraging them, and we each trade stories via bench racing-motorcycles being our common denominator. And it gives me the chance to meet other guys who ride, and meet nice shops like in Simi Valley. Not every ride is a race-so I don't ride as if it is.

Too often if it rains the last 20 miles of a great day, or we get a flat on the last lap, that is all we remember and take home with us. We neglect to remember the laps at full speed, or the hills and valleys on twisty roads that earlier we thought would never end. We take exception to anything that ruins our perfect day, and steals our fun. and can go from thanking God, to wondering what He was thinking when we got the flat, or the rains came. Ministry came be like that. But the lesson of Ezekiel is best remembered. God told Him what to say, and what to do, and who to say it to. Tell the Israelites, a stubborn people, and do not be afraid to tell them the truth-punishment is coming for their rebellion. But He warns Zeke not to be like them-do as I tell you and all will be ok. God's OK, not ours, a big difference. For like a ride, there will be rough roads, bad weather, dumb drivers in cars, and other obstacles to avoid. Not all who hear your message will turn to God, in fact they may turn against you! Jesus did not come to unite the flocks, but to separate the goats from the sheep-it is not your job to change a heart, just deliver the message! In other words, just obey what God gives you. Don't go Jonah on Him! For His will shall be done, and the best way to enjoy it is to obey. Rough road-slow down and enjoy the sights, or take a side road that God offers-avoid possible danger! Rain-it will pass, just never fast enough for me. But in sharing remember that someone is always watching, and the words meant for your audience may be heard by another. Only in heaven will we know-but rest assured God does. And somehow this all works out for our benefit.

Theresa needed air, the shop got to see the S3R. We got to visit, and both of us had needs met. Keep the gospel, the good news of Jesus the same despite the situation, knowing God is in control. More people come to God on bad days than on sunny ones. For it is in our bad times we seek Him more. But don't let that be a reason to not praise Him on the sunny ones! Praise Him in all, for it all works to our good. Trust God!

It is the truth that sets us free! Speak in and live it in love. Do not be afraid because your bike is slower, and older than you are. Ride your own ride! Along with Jesus! God will deal with the rebellious, no reason to let them upset your ride. You see the Sales Manager was vindicated after he saw the bike, his facts were right. Even if his co-workers still ride him. So speak the truth. What did you see today? It just may depend whose eyes you see it through. And who you are riding with. Stay the course God has given you, don't lose your vision. When trusting God you never have to make a U-turn. Something you never want to do on a race track! Serving God is fun-don't miss out!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

feasting on asphalt

2012-02-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

A few years back, when the Food Channel first came out, Alton Brown made my A list by sponsoring a show called Feasting on Asphalt. On it he and some friends rode their BMW's on selected historical back roads looking for diverse foods. A great premise that I wish I had financing for, as he started off great, but I lost interest quickly. He tended to show some strange places, eat some bizarre foods that were from some unusual body parts, and of course not enough asphalt-as the case usually is. But he had me hooked on ideas for rides, and his one trip up Hiway 61 through Louisiana, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, and Minnesota gave us an idea for one trip.

Avoiding Louisiana-New Orleans in particular, we did 61 into Mississippi. Sadly like so many state or US hiways, they have been turned into interstate types, by-passing the old road, and have none of the local places to eat adjacent. So we stayed on the old sections, like Alton did, and our first place was in Clarksdale, Birthplace of the Blues, and ate at Abe's, there since 1924. Pulled pork is the way to go in the south, and inside the place reeked-a good reeking. And the pulled pork, with cole slaw on top, was great. Good food, good road, and good music-under the crossed guitars at the crossroads, the inspiration for Clapton's Crossroads song. As we went on north, we avoided some of his lesser choices, and once past St. Louis, our goal for lunch was at Maid Rite Sandwiches in Quincy, Illinois.

Now I have a particular dislike for Quincy, in 1985 on a ride, I was ticketed for 60 in a 55 zone, by the local constable, who bragged to me that this was his first patrol in their new cruiser, and I was the first to be ticketed by it. Despite my plea of I rather be the first one warned, he wrote me a ticket. Just him, me, the car, and corn so high you thought you were driving in a maze. A true public revenue enhancer, let's call him Matthew. Thanks, Matt. Coming into Quincy from the south is interesting, as it is on the Mississippi, and there are huge caves. I mean big, like airplane hangar size, used as warehouses, some with 30 foot high openings. And they go on for miles-interesting, but we were hungry, and we had a destination ahead.

Now part of knowing where you are going, is knowing where you are going. And I couldn't remember the name Maid Rite. I kept calling it Merry Maids, and Theresa would grimace-no connection to Mickey D's. So we drove through the downtown, and out of town a few times, with no success. Hungry and desperate, we stopped at a convenience store outside of town, and asked the women outside smoking where Merry Maids was? "You need your house cleaned?" NO-I'm hungry. And they thought we were funny, talking with them through our full face helmets, and not knowing the name of the place we wanted to eat at. Suddenly the one with more teeth said, "Oh, he means, Maid Rite. You passed it coming into town." Actually this would be my fourth trip by it. And as we left, they laughed their toothless grins, I got hit in the ribs, and the Maid Rite saga continued.

Since the thirties Maid Rite sandwiches have been a hit in the Midwest. Think of them as a Sloppy Joe, with no sloppy. Seasoned meat, on a bun, add fries, and a Pepsi, no Coke-can't get more American than that. Waitresses still patrol the dining area in white uniforms, some may have been the original employees, no tipping, and they will bring you more as you require. I ate two deluxe, which were good-and enough to satisfy my Quincy intake for decades to come. And Alton-he finally crashed, got hurt pretty bad, and cancelled the show. Just as it was hitting its stride. Leaving a void for us hungry asphalt feasters that still exists today.

Peter once was shown a vision by God of a picnic-where he was told he could eat all kinds of food under grace. My kind of vision. Now to a man who never had pulled pork, a bacon cheeseburger, or a Nathan's hot dog, this must have been blasphemy at first. But when God showed him how nothing is unclean unless He says it is, Peter upset the Pharisees by eating things not Kosher. And it opened up a whole new side of God to Him-no laws. Replaced with grace. And mercy-much better than sneaking a hot dog at a side window. The sin of eating non-Kosher foods was replaced by grace. And just like grace in our lives, it gives us freedom to live in Christ as He wants us to. Free from the food police. Another department of the Pharisees.

No more fussing about was it prepared Kosher. Was the dead animal prepared properly. Was the meal "made right?" Even when it comes to food, grace is better than the law. A tough sell for Peter, but freedom with his new menu choices, and getting to see Jesus in a whole new light. The same Jesus who came to set us free-and fulfill all the laws. One meal at a time in Peter's case. He now found he could trust God, be guided by the Spirit, and avoid the Pharisees altogether.

Are you feasting on everything that God has to offer? If you are stuck on religion, try the freedom in the Spirit. Enjoy God's mercy, and live a life of freedom in His grace. And show love where before you were consumed with laws. Letting your only law be to show love. And show it whether riding or eating-no matter what you feast on.

Sadly Alton never returned to the asphalt. So I hear there is a vacancy in the road food area on TV. I know this couple who would love to fill it. Now if I could only find that certain one who would back me! My first ride would be back to the Crossroads in Clarksdale. But my first stop on every ride is at the Cross-the only road I ever wish to travel. For without the cross you are just on another road to nowhere-but at the Cross you find direction, and directions. Which it never hurts to have when looking for a place to eat. Oh, remembering its name helps too!

Made right by Jesus! How could I ever forget a name like that?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

for what it's worth

2012-02-09T08:05:00.000-08:00

I first learned about mercenaries from my Dad, in 7th grade US History. During the Revolutionary War, the British hired professional soldiers to fight for them. Many were top flight and well trained, and well paid to fight. But they found that no amount of money could make then fight for a cause they didn't believe in, so when the going got tough, the paid, well got going-sometimes. And the British couldn't understand why untrained, unprofessional men would fight against their superior army to the death, for no pay. It was because their motivation was more than for money, it came from the heart. Nationalism it is called, how a person will fight for what is his no matter the cost. Not a new concept, and still available today. And our actions tell others about our true nationality.

Sadly we have become a society of mercenaries. I want to be paid for what the job is worth. We want to get paid for what we do, and we want to be paid well. And we want to show it off to others, to impress them as to what a great whatever we are, so they are impressed. It is called pride, and eventually the person falls-just never soon enough for us. I have watched great repair shops fail eventually, after years of success, overcharging what they thought they were worth, while people paid it. But never realized their customers were always shopping for a new shop, one they thought they were being treated fair at, and when they did, the customers left. It wasn't so much the price, it was what they did for it. Mercenary in their pricing system, it was all a la carte. And when a shop was found that would fix things as they found them, and throw in the repair, because it was the right thing to do, soon they had more business than they could handle, and a solid word of mouth advertising base, knowing that if you put out a good product, the money will follow. We call them professionals.

I watch now as we have become a society that must be honored and praised for doing the right thing. My caretaker is here when I need her, but so is her paycheck. My personal assistant is always on call, but so is her time card. All I do is pick up the phone, and someone comes-for a price. An employee/employer relationship, verified by their time card. Mercenary as they got paid for what they did. But let that paycheck not arrive on time, and we see the loyalty wane-because they are mercenary. And sadly their card shows all too often what they didn't do. When the shift was over, they went home, with an "I'll get it tomorrow at work" attitude. But it is not always about money, it is about what the public, their family, or their peer group thinks. Ecclesiastes 4 tells us things stem from the envy of our neighbor. We want to be better than them. To impress them. When mostly they don't care, because they are fighting the same war themselves. Creating a competition, just like two businesses who compete via advertising, then price, with little thought to their product. Eventually the better product wins. For pride always goes before the fall. For like a minimum wage mentality, we get what we pay for, because that's all we have to pay.

Jesus points out to us that this is not a new idea-being a mercenary. It stems from the heart. In Matthew 25 He is confronted by a group of religious types, wanting to impress Him. Looking for their reward for loyalty, even using His name to prophecy, or cast out demons. And they are shocked at His reply-"BE GONE!" For He saw in their hearts their mercenary nature, how they had already gotten their pay check, and it was not enough to gain favor with God. He referred them to "the least of them," and compared them to Him. People like us, or who may be us. You see Jesus owned no property, no car or motorcycle, had no bus passes, and walked most places. He stayed with friends, carried no money, and had no discount dining card. Or major donor for His ministry, He relied on His Father, and He exhorts us to do the same. He did more with nothing than anyone could imagine. He used love. And so He left them, and leaves us with an example to follow. So simple, so humble, yet so rewarding. He told them give drink to the thirsty, give food to the hungry, give shelter to those a stranger, and visit those sick or in jail. Things that gain you no reward, but that do in heaven. All without punching in or using a time sheet. Care for those who cannot care for themselves. "Paying it ahead," as my friend Gavin says. Doing it out of love, like Jesus did. And again a favorite quote of mine from Mother Teresa, when asked by a reporter while in a bug infested hospital. He couldn't take it, and said "I wouldn't do this for a million dollars." And her reply, "neither would I." He thought a million dollars was a lot, she realized it was nothing. That love covers a multitude of sins, and a paycheck will only buy things, it cannot buy love, or respect from God. Henry Ford once said "it is a poor business that only makes money." How poor are you in the business of life?

Remember that next time you look to the cross. Jesus paid it all. Not because He had to, but because He wanted to. Because we never could. And because the price He paid was so high, the only way we could afford it would be as a gift. Remember Jesus when you do something for someone today. If you mark the time on a card and get paid-it isn't love! And you already were overpaid. When loving accept nothing more than a chance to share the love of Christ. Mercenaries show up in all situations. From care giving to car fixing-the best deal is when both people benefit. So get the most for your investment-invest it in Jesus.

He takes all the uninsured, there is no deductible, and guaranteed results. He is the better way. And is not impressed by what you make, and even less impressed by how you make it. In His book, it is the things you did for the least of us that He remembers.

Maybe we all need to rethink our resume of life. How much are you willing to sell out your soul for? It is the times not found on our time card that count the most. Remember that next time you hear "what is best for me, is best for you."

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

show me your faith, I'll show you my works

2012-02-08T07:51:00.000-08:00

Proper first aid is do not panic in a panic situation. Pray first! Which is always the most effective first aid, and which can help you avoid a panic situation. But what do you do when you come upon one? What do you do when you are the first one upon a scene of an accident? Do you look away in horror, maybe pray, and then start to complain about the traffic? Do you call someone on your cell-911? Or do you stop and see how you can provide assistance? How you respond will tell us more about your walk with God than maybe even you want to know. Two examples-

I was coming home down I-15 when I saw traffic suddenly slowing down to a stop. Lane splitting I got to the front, where two cars had hit-one on its back still. All occupants were out, and someone was on the phone calling 911. I stopped to see what if anything else needed to be done, while praying the whole time, and saw traffic backing up-4 lanes of it! So I pulled across the freeway, and started directing traffic, away from the accident-making a lane for emergency vehicles to get through. Within a few minutes I had traffic flowing from a standstill and moving at 25mph. The lane was clear, CHP and a fire truck and an ambulance had gotten through, and the victims were being treated. Each one of us had done our job, and while directing traffic, many said "hey thanks!" grateful they weren't stuck in a worse traffic snarl. The CHP officers even gave me thumbs up, as I had taken control of the scene-no panic, and they could do their job. I had asked God what to do, and He showed me! A true lesson in obedience. And a lesson I was to be reminded of repeatedly when inn Joplin after the tornado. Do what you need to do with what is in front of you! And you must finish one step before going to another. It wasn't until afterwards that a CHP officer told me it was smart to clear an emergency lane. I had never thought of it, it just happened when I redirected the traffic-I'm glad God did!

On another occasion, God also reminded me of why not to ride with Pharisees. We were out and riding with some Pharisee types whose idea of evangelism was pushing the Bible in everyone's face they could. We came upon two new bikes stuck on the side of the road. Very low miles-what a bummer. They had tried everything, including running down the battery while trying to start the bike that had died. After asking him what happened, I checked for gas-he was empty! That had caused the bike to stall, and then the battery to die after repeated tries. While doing this, the Pharisee I was riding with had taken out his Bible and stuck it in his friend's face and was trying to tell Him about the mercy of God. He was more interested in his friend's bike, and finally took a Bible just to get rid of the Pharisee. When I told him what the problem was, he called the dealership where they had bought the bikes, explained they were out of gas, and the dealership was sending some out. At no charge. He thanked me-and looking at the Pharisee told me we could go-they would wait alone. I wish I could have waited with them, for at our next stop, the Pharisee bragged about giving away a Bible-which may end up in the trash. God had shown me a better way, for just like Jesus asked the Pharisees,"what is easier to say, rise up and walk, or your sins are forgiven?" That day it was what is easier, seeing god's mercy or being browbeaten with it? Which one of us do you think these riders will remember? The one who took advantage of them in this situation, or the one who met their need? Again-praying first helps, as I am no mechanic, and wouldn't have thought to ask about fuel myself. Years later when I ran out on a new bike with 3.2 miles on it, I was reminded and a man stopped to help, who had fuel and I was able to get on down the road. He didn't preach either-just gave me gas, would accept no cash, and waited until the bike started and then followed me for a few miles to the next exit-before honking, waving, and going on.

How do you handle panic? Join in or join Jesus? It takes a mindset of looking for God, and to God. Evangelism goes much farther than just passing out tracts, and then picking them off the sidewalk later. It is not about passing out Bible when someone is stuck. It is not about Pharisee types bragging about how they solved the problem. It is about Jesus, and letting Him guide you. When Jesus gave sight to the blind man, and he was asked about it, he replied, "all I know is I was blind and now I see."

Ask the guys out of gas, for they were blind, and I was able to show them the answer. Ask those stuck in traffic, they were blind but I was able to provide a way around the problem. And ask the people involved in the accident-who got the care because the ambulance could get through.

All because I prayed first, and let God show me what to do. Pray and obey. He knew the answers needed. Because I didn't know what to do, except panic too. And He did the rest. The right thing. Simple obedience from a man who just happened to be there, that God knew would be there, and who He had prepared before time began. Why panic when we have God? Seek Him first...it is so much easier, and He will take care of the problem. If we let Him.

How many Pharisees are ever written about that solved a problem by keeping a law? And how many did Jesus heal, in the spirit? Remember that, for you could be the next person needing help, and however and whoever responds may have a direct outcome on the event. Jesus Christ-the ultimate first aid kit. Don't leave home without HIM!

I don't care about your religion or politics while stuck on the side of the road. I just want to get going. So don't try to impress with what you know, but meet my need by WHO you know. Trust God. And let Him direct. Amazing this grace thing. But I'll bet you all knew that already anyway.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

whose team do you play for?

2012-02-07T07:40:00.000-08:00

Howard Cosell's autobiography written back in the 70's was called "I Never Played the Game." In it he gives a very cutting, and very sarcastic look into the life and styles of professional athletes. Interesting, not only because he is interesting, but because like he said, "I never played the game." But he had been involved with the games, and from his legal background, and also his broadcasting venue, was let into places the average person would be excluded from. Yes, it is true he may never have played the game, but he still was involved with it, just not as a competitor. Which reminds me that there are several levels to making a team a winner, it is in the details the losers are separated from them.

Watching the Simon and Simon race team at the Barstow Firecracker 250 on the 4th of July reminded me of this. The truck was overheating, and despite its huge radiator, electric fan, and large coolant lines, it was in the red, and close to self destructing. While the other were looking at the obvious, Don Tebbe, the crew chief, jumped on top of the truck, and released a safety valve on the radiator. In doing so the cooling system burped itself, relieving itself of an air pocket. He topped the coolant off, the temp dropped to normal, ad they were back on the course. Don had put that valve in just for occasions like this, and although he may never have driven the truck in a race, the team would have DNFed without this trick. Reinforcing the value of a crew chief, his knowledge and experience, but also how it takes a team to win. And how important even the small things are.

The scripture tells us we all have a gift, or talent that God has given us. Something that He wants us to do, and it is special. I watched in the past as pastors who try to control the church, eventually go down in flames, as they do not give their flock over to the Holy Spirit, it is as if they are the only ones, at least in their own prideful heart, that God has allowed to serve. And I recently watched as a church who had supported a ministry for years, pulled out support. On the surface, these things happen, and the economy is usually mentioned. But in the background is the real reason, and we see how God protects those that are led by Him. Obedience is better than sacrifice, and a little leaven goes through the whole batch. The ladies used to make certain knitted and crochet items for the seniors in nursing homes. They would gather and enjoy a time of fellowship, sharing God, and serving Him. Until one day some Mormon ladies came, and were invited in. Rules had been set about proselytizing, but the spirit was quenched. Soon more Mormon women were admitted and outnumber the Christians. And they had an idea to sell the goods, rather than donate them, and suddenly those who gave of themselves were turned into piece workers, rather than peace workers. And those who left went on to serve God, while the leaven continued to go through the church. Not obeying God will have its consequences. And when the church attendance dwindled, so did the finances, and the giving had to be cut off to others. Just one sin caused the others to suffer. Remember that next time money comes up in regards to ministry, if God has given you a vision, He will supply all your needs according to HIS RICHES and glory. Did you ever see Jesus on a book tour or a fund raiser? Charging for refills? Or asking for travel money? And He not only played the game-He is the game!

Never underestimate what God gives you. Just like Mordecai Ham, the man who led Billy Graham to the Lord, he never knew the fruit that his one message of salvation would bear, and all the ones saved because of Billy's decision to accept Christ. Just like Don's knowledge of burping the cooling system, he allowed the race to go on, and they eventually won. We don't run to finish, but to win. And the battle is not against other Christians, or even men,our adversary is the devil, who seeks to destroy us. Read 2 John-do not even let those false teachers in your house-or wish them God bless you. Run the race to win, led by Jesus.

We do not know what today brings, but we do know who goes with us. Follow Him and watch as we are more than overcomers, we are victors! We get to compete with the family of Christ for souls, just by loving. We are only called to be witnesses, so let your light shine. A lesson my friend Dave reminded me of this morning. Stay the path, for all things work to our good, not just good things. Beware of those who let anything get between you and God. And rejoice as you get to be a part of the winning team. For like Howard, we may never get to play the game, but we still compete. And if you never endured two a day drills, be glad. Jesus saves-we are just told to love. For this is the will of God!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Galatians 5:7-9

English Standard Version (ESV)

⁷ You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? ⁸ This persuasion is not from him who calls you. ⁹ A little leaven leavens the whole lump.

evangelical shirt productions-don't forget the stickers

2012-02-06T09:19:00.000-08:00

Here I am sitting with my wife at the Yuma Prison Run, and a well meaning man comes up to me and starts telling me about the patch on his back. I listened, reluctantly, for I knew of this group, and knew of all the duplicity in it. He went on, oblivious to my lack of interest, and told me because the patch on his vest was there, people knew he was a Christian. And how people were attracted to him. Having had enough of his club of Sardis tales, I asked him a couple questions. One-why would you want me to be part of your club? You don't know me. His answer was that I must be someone important because so people were stopping to say hi. He didn't realize I was a Christian, and knew many in this club, which was why I didn't want anything to do with it. Two-I asked, if your patch drew people to you, why did you approach me? I was sitting here minding my own business until you came along and interrupted. No answer. Three-what did the Holy Spirit do to lead people to Christ before your patch came along? Who are you trusting, a club of rules and dissention, or God?

And he left and wished me a good day. I felt sorry for him, for he was sincere, but sincerely wrong. This club had fed him lies, and to fit in with them, he had to follow them. I never got a chance to tell him for 35 years I was part of this club until God rescued me from it, and now I had real freedom in the spirit! If it takes a patch, or shirt, or vest, what happened to God? Now I am not anti-Christian shirt, but when I see one coming, I tend to duck. I must look like a sinner, because I draw them, only to find they want to tell me how to live. By their rules, riding their kind of bike, at their speeds, to where they tell me to go...I think you get the picture.

NOTW shirts tend to bug me too. Put on a shirt, add some graphics, maybe even a scripture, and you are a Christian. Just like having Jesus on your dashboard, you are protected, and free to act as you wish. I have met Aurelio, and heard his testimony-awesome. But when I see people just wearing the shirt to be cool, and not even knowing what it is, I get concerned. And like the man at Yuma, they mean well, but on your own is exactly that-on your own, and alone. For unless the Holy Spirit guides, you are wandering alone. So I ask, who is the Captain Kirk of your enterprise? Are you at the helm, or Jesus? Do you follow club rules, or God? Do we need a t-shirt or vest, or bumper sticker to tell if you are a Christian?

I have found God sends people my way. I don't have to go looking, for I let Him. Not always easy, I really wanted to share Jesus with this guy, but he was more impressed by his patch. Mine were in the trash. And so many by their shirts. Now I wear motorcycle shirts all the time, but they don't need a shirt to tell I ride, my helmet look should give that away, or when I pull up on one. And anymore, I am tired of talking about myself, which is where most of these conversations end up. So I let God lead me, and find out I do much more and effective ministry when letting Him guide, or just sitting in the crowd. For like the Pharisees who were so bound by rules, and wanted to show how holy they were, if you have to tell me, maybe you aren't. For at that point it is about you, not Jesus. And for years I have told to anyone who will listen to have only one agenda-Jesus. For anything is sin. Good intentions or not. So let me leave you with this thought, or question.

If you are hurting, who would you search out? A group drinking, smoking, cussing, and carrying on, or try to follow who the spirit is leading you to? Or how about the preachy crowd who will not listen, but tell you how to live anyway. You see when I have a problem, I want God, not your story, or your rules. I want answers, and have learned to trust God long before I trust man. Over the years I have had people come up to us and pour out their hearts, not knowing us, or who we were-but sent by God. We have prayed, counseled, and followed up as God directed. All without a shirt telling them who we were.

I know many will argue with me about this, and how great their club, vest, patch, or shirt is. Don't tell me-tell God. Who works from the inside out. You cannot do anything more for God than what He asks, if you do you are in sin, His words, not mine. So dump the Pharisee look, and trust God. No t-shirt will ever effect your heart like Jesus will. No patch can save you. And check out your stories before you approach someone. They may just pop you just to let them know who they are, and what they think of you. RESPECT the person, and watch as Jesus touches their heart. Despite any damage you may have done.

For God so loved the world He sent JESUS! Not you or me! Long before t-shirts and back patches. For love is still more effective than any other form. Remember that next time you interrupt someone. Who may be doing God's work. And thank you for all your prayers-I will continue to covet them, for without Jesus I am nothing.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthw25biker.blogspot.com

a bike a year is all it takes

2012-02-02T19:50:00.000-08:00

Over the past 40 years, I have owned at least 35 motorcycles that I can remember. Note that this doesn't include bikes I lusted after, or rode for a day in my dreams, or the 80+ motorcycles I have ridden for Triumph over the past few years. At first that number seemed low, but when I divided it by 40 years , it meant that I averaged a new-or another motorcycle every 13.7 months. A number which may be skewed because I am down to seven bikes right now, but for sake of argument, we'll use my numbers. Hey, it's my story. Which taking into consideration time spent in places where winter is a season, but not a riding season, that averages almost one bike per year. Please don't tell my wife, she thinks we spend too much on motorcycles already. Where did I get all the money to buy them? Where did I get all the time to ride them? Are these sure signs of MMD, Multiple Motorcycle Disorder? Please, someone get me a Cycle Trader, I feel faint. I'd have to live my life in dog years to ride them all, but somehow I did. Woof! Or is it bow WOW!

Now to the non-riding, financial, insane, boring mind, this would be heresy, and no way to build a growing portfolio. And they may be right. Just the cost of purchase, before tires, gas, oil, and accessories would be enough to pay off the house. But being a rider, I have to add in an intangible factor, the peace of mind factor. The fun factor. Call it the "I've never seen a motorcycle parked in front of a psychiatrist's office" factor. And suddenly it all makes sense. How many people save their whole lives, only to die, get divorced, lose their job, or pay too many taxes and never enjoy life? From a fiduciary standpoint, riding is lunacy, which makes it all that more appealing to me. Add in the fun, friends, and places, and it has been a wise investment. Who can put a price on memories? At the end of your life would you say I'm glad I did or I wish I had?

If I never rode I would never have seen the US of A from the seat of a bike. I would never met people at rest stops, or eaten at places like Lucille's, Alice's, or Primonti Bros. I would never have enjoyed the scent coming off the highway after the rain, or smelled the wildflowers while passing through a field in Central Cal. I would have missed the rush of acceleration that few cars can match, and no one would come up to me on my Bonneville and share their memories. There would have been no Daytona, or Hollister, or Johnstown, and I would never have enjoyed the brotherhood of other riders. I would never have scraped pegs in a tight corner, frozen until the cold morning warmed up, or roasted riding across the desert on a summer afternoon. I would have listened to countless hours of talk radio, gotten bored by classic rock, and never realized that loud pipes save lives. I would have no life, and if asked about my investments, would have a savings account, my house paid off, and no signs of life coming from it. My garage would hold the two cars, and I would have had countless hours to waste from not cleaning, servicing, or trying to make nine bikes fit into a one car garage. And sadly, I would never have met Theresa, our first night out was on my R100S, without helmets in case you wondered. In other words, the main thing missing from my life would have been life. And when I think about life in those terms, you mean it was only 35 bikes? Only 40 years? Where did the time go?

So what do you do with your free time? I know too many that worry about their investments, but never invest in life. Dying secure in the fact that they had enough money to live however they wanted, only chose not to live. I find many people today so afraid of the future, they don't enjoy today. The news scares them, and it should. From wars to bankruptcies, to foreclosures, to unemployment, it's a lousy world. Which makes me so glad that 37 years ago I chose Jesus. And never looked back. One God for 37 years. I quit while I was ahead. Do the math on that one, and use the factor of eternity, and it throws off all your other figures. The wisest investment I ever made, giving Him all my sin, and taking on His grace. The deal made no sense to the financial mind, but it has paid off handsomely over the years. And will forever. For the joy of riding, like the joy of Jesus cannot be fully described using words. It must be experienced. Joy unspeakable, full of glory. Freedom of the road, and from fear. Able to live my life, enjoying it, not worrying about the future. Looking in the mirror to where I have been, not where I am going. Investing in things in heaven-you can't take it with you, but you can send it ahead. And safe and secure in the knowledge that heaven awaits-my life doesn't end here, it only begins when I die!

Some people will never ride, but that doesn't mean you don't have to know Jesus. Not the religious one, the one in the Bible. The one who gave grace, and did away with legalistic laws. The one who gave His life for you, while you were still in sin. The one who promises an abundant life, and who shows why it is more blessed to give than receive. Wondering about life? Talk to a Christian. Wondering about riding? Talk to a biker. And if he rides, and is saved, listen carefully. The advice you will be given is not available at any price. And you will know life, and start to enjoy it more, by investing in it. For it is the intangibles, that last forever.

So a bike a year is all it takes. 35 bikes may be the third best investment I ever made. Jesus is the first, Theresa is the second. But the countless adventures in riding have made life worthwhile, and given me life. With many more miles, and motorcycles to go. So I suggest investing in Jesus today. The best investment tip you will ever get. You can brag about your investment portfolio, I'll get out the pictures and show you mine. You decide who made the better investment. I know I did, for it continues to pay top dividends, is inflation free, and has a guaranteed return. If you know what I mean...

a better class of people

2012-02-02T08:11:00.000-08:00

My dad was always proud of me, but sometimes would hesitate to answer when someone asked "is Michael your son?" He had learned like I had, that if someone was going to get caught having fun, it was me. If something would get broken, and I happened to be in the state, it was me. And if some good deed was performed, and my name came up, it had to be another Mike. So over the years he learned to question these "do-gooders," only to respond to them, "he was with me." Or "he was on a camping trip with the Boy Scouts." "Or it couldn't been his motorcycle, it doesn't have loud pipes. (It was a BMW.) Which had the potential to open doors he didn't realize. "That was your son who was with you?" Raising more questions. "So that's what happened at the campout." Or "all motorcycles are loud, and only losers ride them because they have loser parents." And it seems that most everyone is ready to unload about you with some sort of bad news. You will always fail to meet their mark, to agree with their opinion, or make as much money as them. They just can't stand to hear that "he" did something nice. And can't wait to tell your parents when you screw up. As a public service, "no charge Mr. Mohn, thought you'd like to know." So many idiots, and so few villages.

So when I was in high school, I knew a woman Mrs. Spach who would let us hang out at her house, and party. We were young, stupid, and immature, all the qualifications for fun at that age, and took full advantage of it. Which all her neighbors knew, and couldn't stand. I had just gotten my license, and was driving the Pinto when Mrs. Spach's dad died. She was unable to drive, and had many things to do dealing with his death. So I offered to drive her where she needed to go after school, just doing what I had been taught, and helping out a friend. And she was able to get things settled quickly and get on with her life and kids. This is what friends do, and I never thought much of it.

Until I came home one night, and my parents wanted to talk to me. My instant memory told me I hadn't done anything that wrong for a week, maybe my past aggressions were finding me out. It seems they had gotten a letter from Mrs. Spach, thanking them for raising such a good son, and how she appreciated all the help I had been to her, and her son Billy. I think they were in shock, Michael? Their son? We weren't trained for letters like this? And they were proud of me, and it felt good. Until a few weeks later my dad ran into Gavin's dad, who knew Mrs. Spach and told him about the parties. Seems someone is always willing to steal and rob from you. Can't be nice to those kind of people. Which made my good deed even more better to my dad, for I was not helping out someone in the clique, but someone in need. Like I had seen him do before, also without being recognized for it. We talked about it, not happy about the parties, but proud of helping out a woman in need.

Satan comes to rob and destroy, even those who aren't saved, which I wasn't at the time. I am sure if I had helped the principal's wife, or the mayor's, Gavin's dad would not have tried to insult my dad. "Nice thing your kid did, too bad the woman is a loser." Like the Pharisees, he just had to try to show he was better, which he wasn't. Too bad he didn't realize he was in the same category as she was. Would it have been OK to help him or his wife? Or his mother?

Someone is always watching. They love to comment on what they see, or think they see us doing. Not a new situation. But God looks on the heart. Big difference. He sees our motives, our actions, and where and why we do the things we do. The Pharisees, which are the father of religion, and inhabit too many churches today, still carry on their traditions of look at me, I am so religious. And so do so many things to show how great they are. But God looks on the heart.

My particular complaint today is with the Super Bowl. Take a cool Christian man like Walter Payton, name a humanitarian award after him, and then nominate a man who makes $17million dollars a year for his good works off the field. And they call that man a hero? Almost like using Walter's name in vain. The Pharisees of football.

The Bible tells us what is in the heart will come out of the mouth, and reflect in our actions. I am reminded again and again how true that is. But I am blessed to see so many trusting God, and ministering in Jesus name. No trophy, no award, and no $17 million. For no award could add to what their Father in heaven sees. For just like He bragged about Job to the devil, He brags on us when we do something for the least of them-in love. No qualifications, no agenda, just meet the need. Like Jesus did. Again and again, today and tomorrow. Maybe that is why He hung with the low lifes of society, they were a better class of people. And why He hangs with people like us today. It is called love, just like I showed Mrs. Spach but didn't know it. Just like we do when we meet a need in Jesus name. For in doing so, we are doing it to Him. For all have sinned, and fall short of the glory of God. And He is the only way back. And yeah, my heart is a mess sometimes, but God loves and forgives me. He wants nothing between us, so has forgiven my sin-like it never existed!

Let love be the only thing between you and God, and those created in His image. Don't worry what people say, the only words I care to hear is "well done my good and faithful servant." From my Father in heaven, courtesy of Jesus Christ. If you wish to repeat anything about me, tell about how He saved me and changed my life. I dare you!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

church isn't just for Sundays anymore

2012-02-01T08:54:00.000-08:00

Ride with me back some 35+ years, to the time of gas shortages, rationing, and stations closed on Sundays. Of days where filling up late on Saturday was the only gas you would have until Monday mornings. To a Sunday ride that was only as big as the miles per gallon in your tank. And to a time that saw more people stay home on Sundays, because they had no place to go, because there was no gas.

I remember those times, when my large tank on my BMW would take me over 200 miles, but the Wildman's small tank on his Mach III would only go half of that. So we sacrificed, and rode his distance, not choosing to leave him behind. And found local roads we had passed up, believing that the best roads were farther away. We met local girls, local bikers, and very rarely if ever pushed our bikes home from lack of gas. Although many times we were on reserve. We won't talk about going back Monday morning with a gas can to retrieve the bike that ran out and was left along the road. In a car.

Running out of gas once was more than enough for me. But I still have episodes of stupid, thankfully it has been years since my tank went dry. So now when the low fuel light comes on, I find gas. And hope the station is open. I can remember coasting into a station one night, only to find it closed-as in out of business. Can they at least take the signs down? I wonder how many of us they caught? No faster way to go from hope to hopeless than to think a place is open when needed, only to find it closed. Too bad it wasn't enough to stay open. Nothing worse than needing gas, and finding the station closed-when all signs indicate it is open!

W@Maranatha read the Wednesday night bulletins. And for me, it is a necessary refueling in the middle of the week. I can't go 7 days without church, I need the fellowship, the worship, and the teaching. So I am blessed that my church is open for business, like so many others, to be there for their flocks. To breathe life into a life that is run down by life by midweek. To top off my tank, so I can make it until Sunday. But on the way home last Wednesday, I noticed a church that was dark, and empty. A place that once shined brightly in the night, with people and life. But I hear now it is closed. No more midweek pit stop. No more light to a dark world. Only open on Sunday. Which I hope is not their epitaph. Sadly they are not an isolated occurrence. For too many churches, and church programs, and church people are suffering because they didn't follow God. They chose to let the world in, and when the world tried to leave, locked the doors. And like the schools, where God isn't allowed anymore, by law, have come up with laws, legalistic practices, and excuses. At a time when more people are hurting and needing Jesus, they close. It is 1963 all over again, taking the Bible out of schools, but this time it is churches. And the people suffer for it, where do they go to be fed? And what happens to the pastors? Sadly if closed on Wednesday, Sunday will soon reflect in lower numbers, and even cancelling services. Not the gospel I choose to follow.

In many cases God will close the doors. It is His church. If you care to remember, He builds the church, He can close it down if they don't follow His spirit. And too many have gone the way of programs, vs. the spirit. A local church I know of once had a food bank, but cancelled it. The reason I was told was because some family in a Cadillac was coming for free food. The pastor felt if they could afford a Cadillac, they didn't need free food. I guess if they came in a Pinto...But I was told of another church in town,who feeds the hungry-not the poor. Just like Jesus did, hungry, come eat. And like His church should be. Hungry-we'll feed you. Thirsty, have a drink. Tired, sit and visit awhile. Cold, here is a jacket. Lonely, let's visit-you talk, I'll listen. Simple ministry, just like Jesus did. I like that. And so when a church doesn't show His love, He leaves. And the building remains. Empty as the hearts who led them to this end. The light has gone out.

Sadly Jesus tells those religious types to be gone, He never knew them. It takes love, not programs, web sites, blogs, or gossip via Face book to serve God. If pastors spent as much time serving God as Tweeting, can you imagine the difference that would make? I even have gotten letters from ministries who claim to have lost their major donor. God abandoned you? Maybe if He was your major donor, you wouldn't be fund raising so much, but attending to business. Where God guides, he provides. So let Him. And pray for them, too many Pastor Millstones out there, they too need to repent.

And open the doors of their heart to the one who saves! And loves! We came through the gas crisis, but the crisis that looms today is more important-a battle for men's souls. So to all you churches cutting back, and blaming finances, low attendance, and even the people, can I ask in Jesus' name, could you tarry just one more hour? Is there any oil left in your lamps? Can you keep the light on for that 1 in 99 looking for home? If God was willing to spare Sodom and Gomorrah if only one righteous person was found, don't you think He can keep your lights on? For that person seeking Him?

Quit rationing Jesus. If you have told someone you are a Christian, act like one. Let your light shine. The light of the love of Jesus Christ. And if you need refreshing and refueling midweek, find a church whose lights are still on. Find life in Jesus. You cannot legislate love, nor can you ration it. A lesson learned 35 years ago from riding. Don't be one of the 10 virgins who was out of oil. Be prepared. Keep your tank filled.

Bet you didn't know that story spoke of motorcycles! See-God can do so many things we can't! Please let Him! And please pray for that dark corner, that light once again shines from it. The light of Jesus Christ. He's open 24/7. Are you?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

special editions

2012-01-31T08:06:00.000-08:00

Nobody wants the standard model anymore, or so we have been taught. Especially compared to the more expensive models with more features. So the industry has come up with Special Editions, to placate our selfish desire of one upmanship. Take the same model as last year, add paint, some chrome, and add a number plate announcing its special status, as in #456 of 15,000, and you have a Special Edition. That the manufacturer can charge more for, and hold on to a dated design for one more year to amortize costs. The Motor Company has led the way of marketing this, with such exclusive models as the 100 Year Anniversary models, all the same two colors of paint and badges. The next year you can get the colors you really wanted, on the same bike, just without the exclusivity of the other 300,000 who bought into this exclusive club with you. Repeat for 105, then 110 years, and watch as they line up to get them. Go figure. Don't mess with success.

Not a new concept, but Honda tried it with their great Interceptor for its 25th Anniversary in 2008, painted some models red, white, and blue like the originals. I still saw some priced $3000 less brand new on floors this last summer-somebody got a great deal, they just had to wait a few years. And let's hear it for 50th Anniversary Gold Wings, celebrating 50 years of Honda in the US of A. Or 25 years of Gold Wings. Yamaha recently celebrated the same 50 years, with paint and badges to match-at a premium. Their one catch, I noticed, was make the current model ugly, them paint the special edition like they should have looked, and the public will respond with wallets open. And not to be left out, Triumph has had the 50th Anniversary Bonneville, a Steve McQueen Bonneville, painted like the one in The Great Escape, and a 15th Anniversary Speed Triple. All cosmetics, isn't that the first thing we notice anyway, some numbered, so they can charge more, and bringing no more when it is trade-in time. But for the new owner at least he ahs bragging rights, if he can find someone who cares. And if numbered can brag about a low number, 1 of 1000, or a high number, 999 of 1000, depending upon who he is trying to impress. And just like he was once a sucker, there is a new generation waiting to fill his shoes when it comes time to sell. Anyone for the 10th Anniversary V-Rod? If it don't sell stock, maybe the faithful will flock to it with special paint and badges-seems the premium price will finally get them-who riding a Harley can resist the temptation to pay too much?

But it seems that we rather believe media hype than truth when it comes to real special editions, like us. When God created man, we were made in His image-that's special. No other creature created by Him has what we have-the ability to choose to serve Him and repent. We can have His spirit, and the will He gave us to choose. We are not forced to follow Him, that would be mercenary. If it wasn't our choice, it would not be true love. But we have a problem believing we are made in His image, and live like it-in sin. There are no two of us exactly alike, and God knows the difference between all of us. When we pray we don't have to tell Him who we are-He knows. We each fill a special place for Him, and He loves us dearly. But in creating us, He left a void that can only be filled by Jesus-the special part in your heart that only He can fill. Religion can't fill it, politics only distort, and our selfish desires counterfeit it. It takes Jesus to unite us with God! No special editions needed-all we need is supplied with us from the start as standard equipment. But it is up to us to use it-our choice. Our choice to believe the truth of Jesus Christ and believe He is who He says He is, or believe a lie, and end up in death.

There are no new models coming for salvation, or to reunite us to God. Don't believe the lies. God got it right the first time with Jesus. And how you live your life tells us about your choice. Does your God love you enough to die on a cross for you-while you still hated Him? Did He rise again after death on the third day? And is He still alive today, and wanting to save you? Blessed are those of us who believe without seeing, we are told by Him. That's us. Overwhelmed by religion and all its practices? Try Jesus. Tired of legalism and all its laws and thou shalt nots? Try life in the spirit! Not sure what you believe, but know that there is something better? Trust God-it's all about Jesus! Don't wait for an anniversary model that isn't coming. Don't buy into a numbered system that demands a price. Trust God! And be living today!

He know your name! And took the time to write it in the Book of Life Himself. He knows Mike M. from Mike J. No computer crashing, or name mix-ups. No second rate redo of last years model, and no additional pricing for exclusive colors. Nope-you get it all the first time!

Trust God today! Turn to Jesus his son. The most special edition ever created-for He alone can save you. And rest in the knowledge that He never changes-He is perfect from the beginning. The same yesterday, today, and forever. And ride knowing that no matter what else you come upon in life, nothing will compare to Him! Now that's a special edition I am glad I belong to!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

a different view when the tank is full

2012-01-30T08:40:00.000-08:00

Cruising across old US 30 in Iowa, a section of the old Lincoln Highway, you are treated to many small towns, and many old signs reflecting this was once the Lincoln Highway. Part of a main road connecting the east and west coasts. Historic and old, and a pre-freeway delight, when you have gas. But the farther west you get from Cedar Rapids, the old road gets barren, and there are no towns along it. Now there are signs for towns, but none on the road. Or even seeable afar, even though a sign points to one and an intersection. It is almost like today's freeways that have by-passed the towns, but which at least have gas stations and convenience stores awaiting you as you exit. But not out here-just signs. And so as the light came on to to warn me I was almost out of gas, we decided to try a side road. No signs, no nothing for about two miles, which can be a four mile round trip if nothing is found in town. And disastrous if you are about to run out of gas. Not even a barn or farm road. So barren you would have to plan it! But just as we were about to run out of hope, and gas, a small town emerged. Five blocks by five blocks wide. With no business section, except an old car garage with 50-60 year old vehicles in it, rusting away slowly, as they have for years. We went up and down every street, until we saw a man cutting his grass. Who was a bit shocked to see us, but pointed us out of town the opposite way, where a gas station/Laundromat/fast food/pet supply store truck stop/farm store was just closing, and we were able to fuel. Good thing, no access to pumps, even with a card when closed. So we fueled, backtracked, and soon were heading west on the old Lincoln Highway again.

Now the road was the same when we were almost out of gas, but since we filling up, we saw it much different. We had hope, and fuel, and suddenly the barrenness of no people, became quite attractive and serene. Amazing how a full tank of fuel can change your attitude about your ride. And I would like to travel it again, not looking for gas, but looking! I know I must have missed other signs of life, and maybe even a local stand to get a Coke or some fresh fruit. But when looking for fuel, nothing else seemed to matter. And almost running out of hope had led us to the brink of frustration. And when the 6.3 gallon tank took 6.2 gallons, just at the right time we had found this one stop for everything store.

I would like to go back and peek inside the old truck garage, maybe talk to the neighbors, and figure out where they work. What do they do. Maybe even get entrance to the garage and check out the trucks. Maybe even find out the name of the town! But in my haste, all I could do was over react to looking for gas, something I should have done in Cedar Rapids, where it was everywhere! A different perspective of this road and the little town, from eyes that weren't quite out of hope. Amazing how a full tank good for another 250 miles can change your attitude!

What are you looking for today? What situation have you found yourself in, and the need eludes you? What is causing you to lose hope, and do something desperate and follow your own understanding? Like us, we took a step of faith, and found this small town. We trusted there had to be someone somewhere, and there was. But the needed someone was with us all the time, and guiding us-we just had to follow the map He outlined. You see Jesus is always with us, no matter the problem. And offering advice so we won't get into hopeless situations. Like-get gas when you need can, before you run out. Self inflicted stress, and then missing the beauty of the road or trip, in panic. It pays to listen.

Today many things are not like they used to be. We need to be prepared for what is ahead. Not fall back on history, or even on a familiar road. We need to be prepared for what is ahead-and only in Jesus will you be. Unemployment-no job is secure any more. Short sales-that could never happen to me! Hunger-I was amazed yesterday at how high prices at the store have gotten. And some things not available any more. Truly we need to be prepared for what is ahead, by trusting God to lead us. Not just in material things, but in the spiritual things too-FIRST! No man is promised tomorrow, but the problems seem to proceed us anyway. Get a head start on them, by being prepared. Pray first, not just when panic stricken. Obey God, and maybe you won't end up on empty! Ask Him for directions, and you will find out He already has your path laid out-one you will be glad He did! And seek Him first, not after only. Scripture tells us that things are going to get worse, take God's advice-get into the ark while you still can. Be protected by God. Some will laugh, and mock, but will be left behind when trouble arises. It hadn't rained when Noah started building the ark, and he had no family yet. Yet God promised him a safe place for them all! Can we be so obedient? Can we seek God first?

Funny, but that day I knew right where we were, but being out of gas made us lost. Keep your tank full of the Holy Spirit, talk with Him during the day, and watch as He is the highlight of your trip. The roads will get rough, you don't have to!

The Lincoln Highway, named after a president who set the people free. Try traveling the Holy Spirit Highway-where you are always free. Free to go or stop, but with advice on when and why. Out on the road where Jesus ministered. Just off the highway, but it takes a bit of faith, to go there. Trust God. Trusting desperation just doesn't seem to be as much fun anymore. Even in Iowa, Jesus Christ-the AAA of life!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

is your watch handicapped because one hand is shorter than the other?

2012-01-27T08:26:00.000-08:00

The things that I don't understand far outnumber the things I do. The number of things I think I understand falls short of both. So years ago I decided to not try to understand everything, and a lot of my mental misery went away. I gave up thinking I had to be a Jack of all trades, and found out being a master of none left me more time to ride. And that by not being an expert in any one field, no one bothered me any more when they couldn't figure out things themselves. Like things included in the instruction manual. Are the pictures in English or Spanish? The number for 911. Call 411? And then trying to convince me that sitting in the garage on a nice, sunny day working on my bike was more fun than being out riding it. Such questions are left to far better brains than mine, so I'm going riding.

But some things still perplex me sometimes, the erudite word for confusion. Why do some riders tell me about the freedom of riding, then stop and call their wife on their cell phone, who immediately curtails the fun that day by telling him to get home? Why do Harley owners brag about spending $5000 more on an older bike, with less power, less accessories, and no warranty than a new one? Must be the fact that the break in miles were included. Why does a new Bonneville cost more than a Street Triple, which has twice the horsepower, handles better, and has better brakes? Nostalgia? I own both, does that make me twice as confused?

Why do big bore sport bikes weigh more than ones with lesser cc's? Why does a bigger hole weigh more? If I put 40psi of air in my tires, and you only run 35, does yours weigh less? And do some real racers just add more air to meet the weight minimum, than let some out after inspection? Did you know Harley sells a polish for flat paint? How will it work on shiny paint? Will it make it dull?

If loud pipes truly save lives, where is the study so the government will make them mandatory? One of my bikes with loud pipes only got me noticed more by the cops. Maybe that is the study. Why do those who have loud pipes think they have to impress the neighborhood at 5am with them? And then wonder why the same neighbors hate motorcycles? And why just the other day, did someone ask me if I knew how to adjust valves on his two-stroke? Not sure how to answer that one, referred him to the service department.

Yes, there are truly mysteries of life out there. My best guess is that it is better off not knowing some things. Like when I am going to die. It would change my whole outlook on life. And try to make arrangements to be somewhere else so maybe it wouldn't happen. But then maybe that was part of the plan to get me to that place in the first place. Yup, too much thinkin' going on, and very little to show for it.

God calls them mysteries, not like the whodunnits of Perry Mason, or the Hardy Boys, but things not yet revealed. But yet does give us many clues, that when led by the Holy spirit points us in the right direction. They ask dumb things sometimes, that religion encourages, theologians debate, and people discuss-but never ask God. For instance, why do so many Christians wonder who is the anti-Christ? Unless you are planning to be here, you'll never know, and it doesn't matter! Shouldn't you be seeking Jesus more? Who are you really looking for? How about all this hoopla about 2012, and the end of the world? Why trust a race of cannibals that don't exist any more? What calendar were they looking at? Not in the Bible, God tells us birth pangs will occur-just the opposite. And why do so many misled people seek to know when Jesus is coming back, when He doesn't know, and God isn't telling? Can you think of a better way to look stupid? Or less Godly? God also tells that the law prescribes stoning for false prophets-still interested? I guess it sells books, gets people interested, but comes short of salvation. Jesus is truth, not an opinion. Not religious rhetoric, and not a fad. Not a way to heaven, the way. He died and rose again on the third day. Fact. Maybe we should be wanting to get closer to Him than discussing opposing viewpoints.

The Bible calls it the spirit of anti-Christ, not the person. Anyone who deters you from Christ, sends you on an opinion trek, or denies the deity of Jesus Christ has that spirit. And you can be saved, but still have it. The importance of good teaching, being in the word, and walking in the spirit. How do you know good teaching? It always points to Jesus, who always points to His Father. And the Bible backs it up. How do I know I am in the word? Is the word in you? Are you known for love or for gossip? How do I know you are in the spirit?

That's personal, but for me it is peace. Better yet, I know when I'm not, the peace is gone, and I start to lean on my own understanding. Much better to lean on Jesus.

So to those of you who know how many cans in a 6 pack, or what color is blue, why Ferraris should be red, Harley's black, and Bonnevilles green-you're ahead of the rest of us. Do yourself a favor, keep it to yourself. Don't let the others find out. But to those of us who know Jesus, don't let a day go by without showing His love. Without telling someone how He saves. And without spending time with Him. Let God handle the God things, and the rest are easy.

And for those intent on knowing who is the anti-Christ, you'll have to deny Christ to know. You might find it easier and more rewarding to know who was the driver of the semi in Duel. Or what does the Lone Ranger look like behind the mask. Or trying to figure out the words to Viva Las Vegas. Or why you would entertain dumb questions to start with. Trust trivia? Another reason for disliking Alex Trebek. I rather trust God.

I'll bet He knows how an aspirin finds a headache! Do you?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

could you not keep watch one more hour?

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-08:00

2 Thessalonians 2:7-12

New Life Version (NLV)

⁷ For the secret power of breaking the law is already at work in the world. But that secret power can only do so much until the One Who keeps back the man of sin is taken out of the way. ⁸ Then this man of sin will come. The Lord Jesus will kill him with the breath of His mouth. The coming of Christ will put an end to him. ⁹ Satan will use this man of sin. He will have Satan’s power. He will do strange things and many powerful works that will be false.¹⁰ Those who are lost in sin will be fooled by the things he can do. They are lost in sin because they did not love the truth that would save them. ¹¹ For this reason, God will allow them to follow false teaching so they will believe a lie. ¹² They will all be guilty as they stand before God because they wanted to do what was wrong.

While checking into a motel a few weeks ago, the young lady behind the counter asked me for some identification. While trying not to giggle at the photo on my license, she handed it back to me with my VISA card. It made me think, and I commented that when I was her age, thirtyish, when asked for an ID they required a credit card, and how things have changed. A questionable look went with it, and this moment of history was wasted on her. Preoccupied with right now, the past didn't matter, and her future was what time she got off, as she was tired from a long day. So I let it go, no longer wishing to discuss the irony of it, knowing my words would be wasted on her. For next to my AAA card-not for ID purposes, and license in my wallet is my Social Security Card, which from time to time I am asked for to show as identification. You know the one, with red letters printed across it stating "NOT FOR IDENTIFICATION PURPOSES." And instead of increasing the irony, it woke me up. Not from physical sleep, but one in which I found myself wandering in a dense fog of lies, which we have substituted for truth.

A common saying we hear on talk radio is "if we say it enough, it becomes truth." And as I watch leaders in government, business, and religion twist words for their benefit, and not for yours, it is true-we finally give up, and just go with it. It isn't worth the fight anymore, and we won't win anyway is our final gasp. Defeated we go on to tackle the next obstacle before it tackles us, and leads us astray, unaware that once the above formula is in place, it effects all aspects of our lives.

Words mean something. My Grandma used to tell me over and over when I asked for something the difference between may I and can I? Yes, you can, you are able, but no you may not, no permission granted. But being my Grandma, the lesson was longer than the wait period, a characteristic well honed by grandparents everywhere. But that lesson has remained with me, so I try to ask correctly. So I can get an answer more favorable to me. But it seems the importance of words can be used against you, as certain cults as the Jehovah Witnesses do, changing God's word by adding a word, as in the word was a God, then lying about it to keep the lie alive. When it says correctly the word was God. Not a god-BUT GOD! Big difference! And so the subtlety of lying goes on, and the unaware are its prime target and captives. Read 2Thessalonians 2:7-12. We have been warned!

Our Constitution tells us we have freedom to choose the way we wish to worship God, who they refer to as THE Creator, much different than A creator. It tells us we can worship as we want, with the government not imposing how or what we choose to worship. In other words, the church is free from the state. But wily evil men, have changed the wording, with only a few mentioning it, who are quickly drowned out in their moment of truth. WE cannot have the church influence government, but we can certainly have government influence the church. The creation trying to control the creator. We have freedom of religion, not dictated by them! And so they cleverly talk about what we hear today as the separation of church and state. Which when given a choice, as the division causes, so many choose the state. After all the government is here to protect me, take care of me in my old age, and give me freedom. But in changing the truth, we are forced to choose between man or God? And the evil forces continue on, right in front of us, subtle but dangerous, and deadly for those who don't choose God. No wonder we no longer are the land of the free!

It is as if the devil put the choice right there, but we refused to see his signature on it. And as we watch God taken out of our daily lives, we see the erosion of morals, then families, and finally our once great country-all because we allowed a lie to be perpetrated. They said it enough, and some believe it.

We have fallen asleep much as Peter did while waiting for Jesus. Many churches, and those in them are deaf to His words of His return, and discount the world events playing out every day-words prophesied hundreds of years ago. So I ask, just like Jesus asked Peter, "could you not keep watch for one hour? Watch and pray so you don't fall into temptation, for the spirit is willing, and the flesh is weak." Perhaps if there is an opportunity to write the history of the US 100 years from now, this will be the title.

Are you asleep? Do you know Jesus? If not, you are asleep. Do you believe the Bible? If not, you're asleep. Do you trust the government more than God? If yes, then you're asleep. And you don't even know it. And waking up a sleepwalker can be dangerous! And lifesaving!

Jesus tells us the truth will set us free. Lies, religion, and governments bind. They control us, and lead us where they wish us to go, not where we want to. Stop and pray-ask God who you really believe in? You may not like the answer-remember the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. Don't fall into the trap of trusting anyone but God. For true freedom is found in Jesus Christ, not from Him. He demands a choice, for Him or against Him? Separating the wheat from the chaff of life, and making you make a choice of salvation, a choice you never realized the government was involved in. Just another free service courtesy of your government. Just don't tell them. The law kills-the spirit gives life. So don't be afraid of those who can control your life, but trust Him who can keep it out of Hell!

Yes, Jesus can keep you soul out of hell. All you need to ask Him is "May I be forgiven? Will you save me?" May I or can I? Just words? Or do they tell us more about the person of Jesus than we ever realized? Your choice-and freedom is only found in the spirit.

God or government? One is the creator, and one was a system created by Him. and perverted by the devil. Ask Eve is words mean something? Better yet, ask God.

As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord! Thankful that we still live in the US of A while we still can. Whose words from the Star Spangled Banner have been adopted from God. For as citizens of heaven we are truly from the land of the free, and the home of the brave! America-BLESS GOD!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

test rides and track days

2012-01-25T07:54:00.000-08:00

The ads sold us. We wanted to meet the nicest people. We wanted to have the good times roll. We wanted the freedom of the road. We even wanted to Solo Suzuki, whatever that meant. So we called a friend, and off we went to the local cycle shop. Where all the beautiful bikes we saw in the ads were calling our name. The paint was brighter, chrome shinier than we could ever imagine, and the seat was calling our name. So we decided to sit on the bike of our dreams-and then a salesman showed up. "No sitting on the bikes," he said, and our dream died. But you continued to show interest, and he finally did you a favor, his words, and let you sit on one. While others less endowed stood in awe and watched you racing down the road in your mind, you were riding and they weren't-at least in your dreams. And you just had to have this bike. And so with all the courage you had, you asked, "can I take it for a test ride?" And as the salesman pointed to a huge sign NO TEST RIDES!, he explained, "not my rule kid, I'd let you, it's the boss you know." And with the dream shattered, and money in your pocket, you went on to another shop.

This shop was different. He let you sit on the bike. He answered your questions. and when he found out you knew how to ride, and were a friend of a friend of a guy he sold a bike to, he asked did you have a license and if you wanted to ride it around the back lot. In shock, you think you said yes, and you must have as the paperwork for this two minute tour would take ten minutes. But you would be riding! And because of that test ride, you would buy your bike there that day-and your next several bikes. And so would your friends. All because of a test ride!

Theresa and I rolled into Albuquerque and stopped at PJ's Triumph. I had never met PJ, and looking at a bobber Bonneville, asked if I could sit on it. Cool. Could I ride it? "You got a helmet?" he asked, and soon I was down the road. No paperwork, no hoping I could ride, he saw my California tags on the Tiger, and told me later if I could ride from California, I should be able to handle this bike. And we began a relationship where whenever I go through town, I stop, and spend money. All because of a test ride. On a bike that he knew I wouldn't buy. He loved riding, and so do I. That was enough, and better than any rules. Besides, I had left Theresa as a security deposit-no way I wouldn't come back for her!

But as my rides got longer, and bikes bigger, I needed longer test rides. And I still met with resistance after many years and 100's of thousands of miles. And then the new Triumph ads caught my eye. And Triumph needed people to get out to ride their new bikes, to see how good they really were. So they offered group rides, which turned into demo rides, which turned into track days, and now adventure tours. They understand that the ads only get you into the shop, the salesman only answers questions, but it takes time with the bike to form a relationship. And one that will last for years to come. Based on word of mouth, still the most effective advertising. And right now their sales are soaring, while the Japanese bikes sit on the showroom floor gathering dust. For years. Like the pretty girl who doesn't have a date, no one asked them for a ride. And test rides sell bikes. Yes it can be expensive, so you qualify the rider first. And some get refused, because they should. You need a license, for instance. Would you just let anyone ride you new bike? But the invite is there, if you take it!

I was told recently of a man who denied church to his kids because of all the bad times he had when he was a kid. He didn't want to put them through it, and I can agree-to a point. The world so often confuses the church with God, and so do many Christians. And sadly, the church has a lousy history in many areas. Contrast that with God, whose reputation, history, and love are much different. Jesus even upset the Pharisees because He was anti-religion, but pro-God. And when they tried to cross him up by rules and legalism, He showed them love, and quoted the scripture correctly, and in context. And in His love, he showed freedom from religion. He met the nicest people who wouldn't be allowed in "their" church, and the good times rolled! Freedom from religion, not freedom found in it. Love and grace, via mercy, showing people He met that He cared about them, and when He showed them love, they would respond in love. Except the Pharisees, who decided to have Him killed. Can't have all this lovin' going on, bad for business. But it was good for the soul.

Show a little respect to those who don't know God today. Who had a bad experience with the man who wouldn't let them in their shop, unless he played by their rules. Offer to spend time with them, answering questions. And remember these two things. One-they wouldn't be asking if the spirit wasn't guiding. God is choosing you in that moment to offer a test ride of Jesus. So just answer the questions, in love. And two-Jesus taught in the church, but ministered outside it. Just inviting a person to church is a cop out. Spend time with them now. And invite them on a test ride later. I don't know anyone who hasn't had a bad time in church. But when confronted with Jesus, well that's different. So offer a test ride first, you'll know when to ask. And watch as the Holy Spirit guides them to Jesus, who shows them God in a personal, intimate way. And you get to ride along! All because you let the spirit do His job, and you did yours.

Test rides happen every day of the week. Keep the track days for Sunday. That first day of a short test ride may be all the person needs to see God's love. Don't let him be scared away by the religious types pointing out all their faults. Jesus saves-not us! So enjoy the ride, I hope you have many test rides with friends you have yet to meet. But don't let a few questions stand between God's love and a test ride. Religion is the place of no test rides-you must buy in, become worthy, then you can ride your own bike-after buying it. Jesus says come unto me, and I will give you rest. Hang out, ask questions. Take a ride if you want. It's His bike, so take the ride. It's free, all you do is say yes to Him.

You will have met the nicest person, have a life of freedom, and you will have met the rock, and have your name on the roll! Let the good times roll-with Jesus!

So, you wanna take a ride? Only by riding with Him will all your questions be answered. Don't let religion get between you and Jesus! And hang on for the ride of your life!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

are you in good hands, or His hands?

2012-01-24T08:25:00.000-08:00

Beware! The Bible warns us of those who choose to seek out and destroy. Or rob or harass. And so often when we are on a heightened alert, we do look out, but we are not always sure what we are looking for. We trust when we shouldn't, and when taken advantage of, fear sets in. And at that point we have already lost something, even though it is intangible. We have lost our peace, our well being, and even sometimes our security. So we need to beware of who comes to the door, and what they really represent. Many times they only have dollar signs in their eyes. Yours.

When in Joplin this summer assisting in cleanup and ministering after the tornado, we saw people stripped of all possessions, and life savings and even health. Without fail though we didn't see one person who had lost heart. But we did talk to many who were going to take the insurance checks, and leave the area. They didn't, or couldn't bear to live there any longer, so would move on. It was still less than one week after the tragedy, and I would expect they were still in shock-we were just driving through. But praying with some, assisting others, and helping as needed, they all were glad to be alive. And at least for the moment, possessions were of a second nature. At least until they walked us around and showed us what used to be. Or stepped on a wedding certificate. Or a scrapbook. Or couldn't find their car. Or couldn't find their pets. Or their houses. You could see it beginning to settle in on them-their homes were gone. Some for over 60 years. And they could go to the address, but they could never go home again. Even the memories were not the same. No amount of money would restore those.

Having a small fire has caused more stress and misery to us than I would wish on someone I don't like. Insurance companies who find loopholes, contractors who do not do what they say they will, and then lie to cover it. Unreasonable pricing, and being taken advantage of in a situation when your emotions are running everywhere except where they should be. Threats that add more to the damage, and who do you turn to-since now they have proven they cannot be trusted. And that is where I find myself today-not trusting. Damaged more by contractors and their lack of ability and integrity, than by the actual fire. Having my house over run by strangers for 3+ weeks, and still the house isn't done. So pray for them, and for us. We need the peace they have robbed back into our lives. For truly there is no place like home-it takes a tragedy, even a small one to realize that.

Years after our last big San Diego fire, some are still fighting with insurance companies. The government hasn't helped much, in one instance they changed the laws so the roads are wider to allow bigger fire equipment through. The insurance company will not authorize repairs until the road is complete. With no money, and no home, this man has no one to turn to. And no home to return to. And in three cases I know of, the insurance companies have put so much pressure on a family that it ended in divorce.

We found that full replacement value means after depreciation, if you put out the additional expense, they will reimburse you up to a limit, then you are on your own. We had to stay in our own house, despite the fumes, and bad air because we had no money to put out for motel rooms-they would reimburse us but not do any direct billings. My breathing still suffers today. And although I am glad we have insurance, when I see the estimates for repairs, they are outrageous. Over $8000 to clean my house? $986 to steam clean a sofa, two chairs and an ottoman? The subcontractor wanted over $4800 to repaint the ceilings-I had my entire house, inside and out painted for less than that last year! Do we wonder why insurance rates are so high? And why semi-skilled contractors drive new trucks each year? Collusion-although you could never prove it. A hidden sin, that only shows up in your next bill. Can't wait until my bill comes due!

So you cannot trust anyone. For man will always revert to his selfish and self preservation ways. No more barn raising by neighbors, or friends taking in friends. But fortunately we have Jesus. He knows all about scoundrels, and those that pray on the weak. And is the only one who can be trusted-He has proved it over and over. And this is not a plea to help us, keep praying, thanks. But a plea for those who take advantage of those who Jesus refers to as the least of these. To take them to task, to report them to the authorities they are responsible too. To see that the sin in their line of work is removed, so that the next ones don't suffer because you were too lazy or afraid. And pray for their salvation, they need Jesus! So don't hide your light under a basket, let it out and watch as the rats flee from the light. Exposed for what they are. And aid those in need, for Jesus tells us that whoever helps the least of these ones, is aiding Him. When is the last time you gave Jesus a cold drink of water?

Show some love for the least of these today. Report those who are evil to the law. Be bold in Christ, but never vindictive. And pray for their salvation. Wood, hay,and stubble are no way to live-and will not get you into heaven. Trust God. You can still go home, it just takes Jesus to get there.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

such a deal I have for you

2012-01-23T07:40:00.000-08:00

Twenty five years! A milestone in the collector car hobby, for now anything that is at least 25 years old is collectible, instead of collecting dust. And if the cover of Hemmings Classic Car is right, it not only got my attention, but anything 1987 or older is now a classic. Now I was around in 1987, and busy raising kids, and starting a new career, having just left the unemployment capital of the US of A at the time, Farmington, New Mexico. How bad was it? Rider Truck was paying people to drive their trucks there-it was the number 1 one way origination point in the US! People would just drop their house keys off at a realty office, and leave town. Complete blocks of downtown were vacant-all due to the oil field business going bust. But back to the cars, 1987 cars really weren't outstanding to us at the time. Mustangs had 225 horsepower from the 5.0, today the advertise 421! Camaros had a whopping 245, but only with the 350! Big bucks-if you could get one insured. So looking at the list of 1987 cars, I laughed to myself as to why and what would be collectible. Were any of these cars so interesting that we will begin to see them at car shows?

Mini vans were all of three years old. SUV's were still a few years away. Convertibles were not yet popular, although we did have Mustang GT convertible, which shook terribly whenever you hit a bump. Quality had not become Job 1 yet. The Taurus was 2 years old, and had started a whole generation on its way to ovoid cars, or mostly cars to avoid when recalling some of them on the roads. Cars were just starting to come out of a performance doldrums, Japanese cars were the best quality, and the Germans still were known for luxury in this pre-Acura, Lexus, and Infinity world. Cadillacs had shrunk, but still were huge, Vettes were big and heavy, and Chrysler was still selling variants of the K car-the one that Lido I. had used to salvage Chrysler, remember him telling you "if you can find a better car, buy one!" We did. Even Roger Smith, "call me Roger," CEO of GM, when asked what did his company have to compete with the Japanese for value, answered "a two year old Buick." I'll bet Lee loved that answer. And maybe that is why we don't remember these cars of just 25 years ago.

A far cry from just 25 years earlier when you could tell a Ford from a Chevy, and known for their performance, and add Dodge and Plymouth to the mix. If you wanted economy it was a VW-one model only, the Bug, or the van if you really wanted to never get there. English cars meant sports cars, and Asian cars meant small, uncomfortable, cheesy cars. Cadillac was still the Standard of the World, and the final destination in your upward mobility. Red convertibles still made young couples fall in love, and sedans outranked anything else. Longer, lower, and wider was the theme-bigger was better, and who cared about 9mpg. Remember cruising all night Friday after checking the gas and filling the oil? For $2 combined from all your friends, fun was still fun, and affordable. And the cars were classic, just as their owners are today. Times and styles change. In this pre-EPA and CAFE world, cars told us so much about us. It was an extension of us, and I wonder what today's cars tell us about us. Or do we really want to know?

God looks at things different than we do, and it is us who need to change to be like Him. We tend to look on the outside, and still determine people by what they drive. God looks at the heart, and sees what drives us, that can be scary. Pretty packages we have become, but still need to be changed from the inside out, not the opposite. We didn't start out poor to become poorer, but so many have as things make us instead of God. The story of the widow giving all she had still can be upsetting. She gave all she had, just like Jesus did. He held nothing back, and she followed His example. Her heart was right, and without monthly payments. No envelopes from her church either to remind her to give. She truly gave, and because of her example in this lesson is a classic example of giving, and of God's love. And she did it in secret. Can you honestly say you never told anyone about a huge gift you intended to give? Or never went to show off your new car? Or your new coat, boots, or hair style? This widow lady had style, a style that only God could see, it was that priceless. And expensive.

That is why salvation is a gift. It is so valuable that no price could be put on it-no one could afford it if He did. So God made it free, and a gift for all. Classics and non. A choice you make to accept or deny Christ. Widow or married, it is still our decision. Looking back we have made some bad decisions, can we look ahead with Jesus? One decision to choose Him will correct all the previous ones. A classic decision, based on who He is, not what you drive. 4, 6, or 8 cylinder, it is better to be tuned with Jesus than adding a turbo for short bursts of more power. 25 years from now your car will be old, and you will be older. Jesus will still be God. Classics may come and go based on age and interest-try Jesus. A classic at any age-for all ages. Step into the future with Him now. And leave your payment book at home. If it works for a car, imagine what He can do for you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

sink or swim, I think I'll ride

2012-01-20T07:43:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, there was a time in my life I was very athletic. I would play 18 innings of softball, 6 quarters of basketball, and play touch football for hours-TV time outs not included. I just loved to be playing sports. But when it came to any sport involving water, I didn't. Or maybe couldn't was a better description. While some people would float around and tread water while hanging out at the pool, if my feet didn't touch the bottom, I didn't go in it. Some are floaters, I am a sinker. And a pretty fair one at that. I even used to go off the high dive-jump, not dive, but then doggie paddle furiously to the closest side of the pool. I finally did dive off the low dive, via teen peer group encouragement, read taunting forced me into it, but I never could tell for sure how I would enter the water. Sometimes head first, sometimes on my side, and they'd ask "how did you do that?" But mostly on my stomach, which would knock all the breath out of me, and I would sit gasping for air. Swallowing the pool's innards came easy for me, and I never had to quench my thirst after swimming for an hour. And then there were the dives where I went from a bass to a tenor....best forgotten.

I was no better at the beach either. Riptides loved me, seemed once I was in the ocean, the word got out, and no matter where I was, there was one there to greet me. Body surf? I body sank. I could float for awhile when a gentle wave came up, but there again as long as my feet were on the ground, I was ok. And I never quite acquired the taste for sea water that I did for pool water...personal preference, I am sure you have your own. So I am not a beach goer, and my swimming pool experiences for the last 40 years consist of hot tubs, just as long as I can still touch the bottom.

My last brave act of attempting to body surf was with Brennan up in Malibu. Zuma Beach, great waves, great sand, and oh the girls. So I just had to show off. And when a big wave came, and all the locals guys went for it, so did I. I don't remember much of the ride, but I do remember being wrapped in seaweed, laying on the beach in the fetal positions gasping for air. Sea water burns just as much coming up as it does going down. At least I got some cute girl's attention, who asked if I was ok. Unable to talk, I nodded something, before she and her friends went off giggling. And Brennan was afraid I may have lost my car keys, and how would he get home? So...I have adopted the following policy.

One-if you can't put gas in it, I won't ride it. My horseback riding is worse than my swimming, and I never learned to swim. Think of it as my cause for ecology-not messing up natural things. Two-if you can't ride there, I am not interested in going. There are so many places to ride, why fly? Again, riding comes naturally. So why fly, especially over water? I am not afraid to fly, just the thought of all that water, and me. And the seaweed. So for me, give me cold water on a hot day, a hot tub on a cold night, and if I seem to eat a lot when asked to swim, I will honor the old excuse about waiting an hour before getting in the pool. Eat or sink? Hmmm, please pass the chips and salsa.

Water in the Bible speaks of the Holy Spirit. A perfect way to show how to walk in-like Peter did with Jesus, how to be immersed in it, again like Peter did with Jesus, and how to publicly proclaim Jesus-be baptized in it. So when I got baptized, after being saved for a year, it was in El Porvenir, in the mountains north of Santa Fe, at 8900'! I didn't get it, and I don't know if I can explain it now, but something happens when you are under the water. Someone was kind enough to take pictures, and even my countenance was different coming out, than when going under. A thought my Grandpa shared with me once, when I told him about being baptized. "You sure are changed, something happens when you get are under the water." Only one who knew Jesus could make a statement like that. How I wish I could have spent more time with him talking about Jesus. And don't confuse the religious protocol of denominational baptizing of infants-Jesus tells us if we believe with our heart, and confess with our mouth He is Lord, then we are saved. And it is not a condition of salvation-stay away from anyone who insists it is. It is a choice, not a ritual. And even He was baptized by John the Baptist. Not for salvation, but to show us a way to let the Holy Spirit enter our lives. A way to publicly confess Jesus Christ. For no one can say Jesus is Lord without being saved-in the spirit!

If you haven't yet considered being baptized, talk to your pastor. It will change your life, not save you, but show the world you are taking a stand for Jesus. Jump into the pool of Jesus both feet, and watch as He changes your whole life. Whether in a pool, an ocean, or a mountain stream like I did, make Jesus more personal. Get in over your head, and watch as the Holy Spirit changes your life. A choice you make, based on who you say Jesus Christ is.

So don't feel hurt is I don't accept the invitation to your next pool party. Unless it is a baptism! And I can ride my bike to it! Many things I don't know about the Holy Spirit but this I do know-He adds life to those who trust Him! Now if I can just let go of the side of the pool...

Trust God! The best decision you'll ever make. Now, if it turns into Jet skis, that's a different subject. Did I ever tell you about the time in Cancun...now you know why I rather ride.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

you say you want a resolution...

2012-01-19T07:57:00.000-08:00

A hearty good morning to all of you overweight people, who ate way too much over the holidays. A happier crowd we are, one you may not have found just few weeks ago as the cookies, pie, and chocolate were overflowing, but now the TV ads remind us of how to lose it all. When maybe if we hadn't indulged so much before we wouldn't have the likes of Janet Jackson-Michael's sister selling weight loss programs. Now that's Neverland! Just like Donnie and Marie, Dan Marino, and many other beautiful celebrity types, follow their regimen, eat their food, and stick to their rules RELIGIOUSLY, and you too will be beautiful. Follow the directions, and you will lose weight, have a sexy figure, and their wallets will be filled to overflowing. Expensive personal trainer not included.

But the key word is religiously. Bound by the rules, they put forth, these Pharisees of weight loss will have you tied in knots, not only physically, but mentally too when you fail. Religion binds, the spirit gives life. How many Jenny Craig types were there when Jesus fed the 5000? No calorie content or carb counters signs there when He fed them. If you really want to get in shape, fall in love. Did you fall in love with your spouse over a set of rules? Or was your heart touched, and no matter how she looked you felt something, and when she wanted to please you more, she lost weight, dyed her hair, or started bathing because she loved you back. No rules made her love you, and no more rules can make her love you more. Works with God too, we cannot make Him love us more. It is the spirit-which gives life, not the law which brings death and diets.

When you first started riding, was it under a set of rules, or was it because it was fun? I remember when we used to ride for fun only-now we are told via commercials, racers, banners, stickers, hats, and t-shirts how we must ride that certain model or not look cool. We won't end up on a podium finish, or we won't have the power to tow a trailer, plow the north forty, or take our overweight wife along. More rules to live by, I only hope that Marie Osmond doesn't ride. YUK! But no matter where you look, someone wants to add more rules to eliminate the fun. To run your life, because they know best. To keep you safe. Bound and under their control. Did you know that when John Lennon was shot and killed, over 80 existing gun laws were broken? Would one more have kept him alive? Maybe 10? If only his murderer had known about them-hey that's it, education is the answer....let's make murder illegal, more classes, with no class. Your rules are wearing me out, I gotta go riding. You keep your rules, and I'll keep my morals-funny you don't need rules if you have morals? Maybe we should make that a rule!

To paraphrase Jesus, "it is easier to live in the spirit than to live under a set of laws. Or for a rich man to go through the eye of a needle." Laws don't make you better, or save you either. Only in the spirit do you find life. And when Jesus referred to the rich man and the camel and the needle, He meant impossible without the spirit. You cannot legislate morality, or salvation either. Without a change of heart, their will be no change of action. Laws don't change people's hearts, only Jesus does. Although the Ten Commandments are a great way to live, their is no salvation in them, no forgiveness. And even if you decide to follow them, who planted that idea in your mind to start with? The spirit! So be guided by the spirit, instead of the law. This may be the most important point Jesus was trying to make to the crowd when He told this story...the spirit gives life, and without it, it is impossible to be saved! No spirit=death. Living in the spirit=life. Simple enough. Simpler than trying to stay within the boundaries of rules and regulations. Still not convinced, tonight give your spouse a set of rules that you think will make her look, feel, and behave better. Then duck. And maybe this will help you lose weight, as you probably will miss dinner, as her new rule is make it yourself!

Please if you would, give me one case where the law added life and didn't rob you of freedom? Give me one example where the Holy Spirit didn't bring life when followed? What rule did God give to His only son? Love! Not rules, but love.

So today stick it to the Pharisees of weight loss, hair style, trends, and fashion. Be yourself...in the spirit! And enjoy the freedom found in Jesus. No needles, no camels, and no more rules...no more weight loss fiascoes either. And start by reading your Bible every day. Not following a plan, but because you want to. No schedule to fall behind of and quit, and then get bummed out because you resolved to do it-let God guide you this year. Watch the Word come alive, as the spirit lives in you. You say you want a resolution...make this year all about Jesus! RESULTS GUARANTEED!

Or you can have you sin and ridiculous laws back. Any takers?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

the midweek rider

2012-01-18T07:47:00.000-08:00

There is something special about a midweek ride. Maybe it is the excitement of missing work, and riding roads without all the weekend warriors out to impress you. Maybe it is sleeping in, and hitting the road later in the day, say 8am. Maybe it is the choice to ride where you want, when you want, and how fast you want, all by yourself. Maybe it is the special feeling of freedom when you pass someone in their car on their way to work, and you're not-you're going riding! Maybe it is all the above, and then some, some intangibles that there are no words for. It is about the peace and solitude of just you and the road you choose-so let's go riding!

My lifestyle allows me to ride during the week, which for years I yearned to do, but couldn't. I wanted to be that person going no where special, as long as it wasn't to work, or anyplace that told me what to do. Forego all responsibilities, and enjoy the day that God made and has given you. And my peer group of midweek riders is much different than those on the weekends. We tend to be older, mostly retired, and not is any hurry. We choose to ride alone, or maybe with a special friend, who we don't have to wait for, or ride too slow, or heaven forbid, too fast with. We ride our ride, for it is our day. We wave at each other, and the egos seem smaller, or at least better under control. We have fewer people to impress, and realize how privacy has eroded away in our society, making these rides that more important. We choose the roads we want to, and if they get crowded, a detour can be a welcome event. We ride roads that have fewer cars, and go past hangouts that are closed or empty-ones that cater only to the weekend riders. We are a welcome stranger in our own land, and the thoughts, sights, scenes, and food we spend the day with are a welcome retreat from real life. Our battery gets charged, along with the bikes, and while choosing to ride instead of doing a list of chores at home, we get refreshed. The grass will grow again, cars will always need washing, and a list of things to fix or repair only gets longer. But there are so many roads, only so many midweek chances, and motorcycles to renew our acquaintances with. So it is our patriotic duty to take these rides-and to do them often!

Midweek church services are a lot like these rides. A different crowd and a different attitude than Sunday mornings. Those of us who frequent them regularly know that, and know how important they are. They are the rest time with Jesus, while he teaches. They are the fellowship time for us, making the words short and count more because we have to get up early the next day. They are smaller, more worship driven, and fill us spiritually, just like the midweek ride does-only much deeper. They make the ride mean more-if you can do both, you know what I mean. But it is all about Jesus, which is why we meet on any given day. To put Him first, and watch as all the cares that eat us up, are eaten up by Him. It is a time to spend with Him, while with others, who need the same filling. It is one on one with Jesus, a private, intimate time. A time that needs to encouraged more by churches, and led by pastors. Wednesday nights are that special to God. Don't neglect them!

I always at least say hi to a fellow rider when I see them eating lunch alone during the week. We have the road, freedom, and now the food in common. But I have learned that a nod or a wave can be just as important, and not to invade on his time. It is his time, and maybe he is not eating alone, but sharing time with his thoughts and memories. And so I do the same thing on Wednesday nights in church. Some are sitting alone because they wish too, but are very much not alone. Spending time with Jesus, just the two of them, unaware of what is going on around them. Getting refreshed and blessed. So I only wave or nod, and let them make the first move. Out of love, and respect. Not much of that found around anymore.

Take some time to ride on a day this week you usually don't. Even if it is the long way home, take some time with just you and your motorcycle-exercise your throttle and air out both of you. And take some time to spend on Wednesday night in church. Air out, and let the spirit revive and refresh you. And if you can-ride to church! For there is no better way to enjoy freedom than on a motorcycle with Jesus!

Yup, weekday rides help put the whole week in perspective. And just may change your attitude towards weekends. But any day you ride is a good day-and the best days are spent with the Lord! So many roads, so little time. So use the time God gives you wisely. And if you see me at church or eating alone, feel free to nod. For we know what we have is special, and it is always cool to meet a fellow traveler. For whether on the road, or in church, being alone together with Jesus is always special.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

kindles or kindling

2012-01-17T08:28:00.000-08:00

While killing time yesterday on a rainy day, I walked through the public library of the new millennium-Barnes and Noble. While wondering about the people who sit glued to their lap tops, lattes in hand, I wondered why any retail store would let people come in and use their product for free. Maybe I just don't get it. Try walking around the grocery store and sampling food-hmm, done that. Go down to the shoe store and try on the newest styles-seen that too. I know, I'll go down to the bike shop and ask for a demo ride, and something that was verboten before is now offered. Does anyone pay for anything any more? Are we a society of samplers? Lots of anys there. Anyway, while in the B and N Latte and Free Reading Emporium, I noticed tables everywhere stacked with books with huge discounts. 50% off, or more. 30% off with rewards card. But the ones who were reading the latest magazines were enjoying the best deal-100% off! I believe the term is free. But not the latte. It figures that after reading a $10 magazine-ouch! for free, they would pay the $5 for the latte. And you don't even get to keep the cup!

Somehow the system is backwards, paying for the temporal-the latte, but borrowing at no cost something you could keep and reuse-a book or magazine. And it is always my good fortune that when looking for a certain magazine, the only one left is worn and tattered, from others reading it. So I pass on it, cursing the latte stains, and eventually just subscribe to it myself-fleeing the whole system of weak coffee and free books.

Now you can buy a Kindle, or the take offs of it, and never have to turn a page again. But you have to buy the book. And soon when the Kindle generation takes over, the latte club will have to find another place to indulge their caffeine intake, and where will I find a book to read? Kindle may be the future, but to me there is still nothing like holding a book when reading. Unless you have the dexterity of the youth of today who were raised on touch screens, which when in my hands the screen either gets smaller, changes before my eyes, or goes blank. So I will keep my old ways, my old books, and my old magazines, and maybe someday a young man will ask his dad what the book is he picked up. "They used to read them, how inefficient. Now you can have 500,000 books in your Kindle 12 and never have to worry about how cumbersome the old books were." And with it a whole generation loses one of the earliest dating lines ever, "can I carry your books?" "Can I carry your Kindle" will never take, it would be like asking someone if you could carry their i-phone. Yeah right! And soon backpacks will join the endangered species list, and do away with security guards who check them, and soon the entire reading society will be in chaos. Page 2.

And I will miss the table piled high with books that didn't sell. At huge discounts, which is where I find many treasures. Just because it is there, doesn't mean it is bad. Some are just overpriced, $50 for a book about jokes about bees, and you wonder why it never sold. But I will really miss the full size covers, the dust jackets that catch your attention, and the smell of freshly printed pages. Oversize books that must be held on your lap, or small paperback sized ones that you can hold with one hand-while drinking your latte, while driving. Will anyone ever remember the sound of pages turning, and how good it sounded? Or be able to look ahead to the end, just by turning a few pages? Maybe Winston Smith was right, 1984 has come and gone-leaving only a blank screen, for blank people to look at.

It appears that Kindle also has various versions of the Bible available. I am beginning to see i-pads, and other electronic devices in church. And I wonder about the temptation when your pastor hits a snag, are you Kindlites really following along in the Word, or have you switched to something more entertaining? Or the Charger game? At least there are no lattes in church-yet! It is true we have come a long way from papyrus and scrolls, but to me there is still nothing like turning a page. Even an old saying tells us about turning a page in life, just call me BK, Before Kindle. But no matter what, stay in the word. Are you in the word? More importantly, is the word in you? Your actions, attitudes, and words will say more than any Kindle ever will.

So when the teacher tells you to "turn to the book of Job," I like the sound of pages turning. And I believe so does God, I know pastors do. I hope no electronic sound ever replaces the turning of pages. And as for the discount tables, best sellers don't need to be on sale! The Bible, still the perennial best seller, I have yet to see on a discount table. Maybe there is a theme there, as the Self Help table was overflowing yesterday.

Wait'll they hear you can get those books on Kindle? Will that mean they are only good for kindling? Stay in the word, and let it stay in you. Read it openly in public, and if someone offers you a latte, accept it. Tell them it will go great with the bread of life. Offer him some. For man does not live by bread alone-but from everything that proceeds from the mouth of God!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

riders of the storm

2012-01-16T09:24:00.000-08:00

You waited all week to go riding with your friends, but as you look outside that cloudy, Saturday morning, you have your doubts. The weatherman says rain, and that doesn't fit your plans. So you call, and decide to stay home rather than brave the rain. Only to be bummed out later as your friends who braved the half hour of drizzle had a great time all day-seems it stopped raining within 30 minutes and the sun was out all day! And warm! A bad call, particularly when listening to all the fun they had. Lousy weatherman, but it is really your decision you have to blame.

Waking up on another Saturday, you have the same plans, and the weather is great. Cool, but it will warm up, you head to the mountains with your friends, looking forward to breakfast. But after 30 minutes, the clouds come in, and as you gain altitude, it starts to rain. You decide to turn back, but your friends go on. And later when they call you at home, tell how the sun came out over the next ridge, and it was warm all the way down into the desert. Again, a too quick decision ruined a great day of riding.

Now I am well known as waiting to the last moment to put on my riding suit. Unless I am soaked to the skin first, I won't put it on. So following my typical procedure, we stopped and put on our suits after being soaked. We were just outside Gettysburg, standing under a cover of an abandoned gas station with others who were soaked. While waiting for the shower to stop, we met another couple up for the day from Maryland. "I watched the weather today," he said, "and they said 50% chance of rain. I figured that was 50% chance of sun, so we went riding. And I 'm glad we did, it was a beautiful morning." And to be a beautiful afternoon, with a huge rainbow after the shower. Wise advice from one who lives where it rains, great advice on this afternoon.

On any long trip, plan on rain. And last summer after braving 110+ degrees days with hot winds in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, we were exhausted. Leaving Pine Bluff the next morning, it was overcast, so no rain suit-yet. Within 20 minutes we stopped again, thanks Lord for abandoned gas stations, and put them on, a first for me as I was still dry. But for the next 400 miles we would be in hard rain-extreme the Weather Channel called it, lightning, and thunder. And then it stopped, it got warm, the sun came out, and the roads dried. Hello Birmingham! And the ride was worth it, for at the end was a beautiful day, which led into many others to come. The rain serving many purposes-it cooled things off, it made us pray more, lightning is scary when you can see it hitting the ground, and it gave us great expectations of sunshine to come. Not to mention the priceless looks you get from people in cars who think you're crazy. Note-we are, about riding!

Life is a long trip. Expect rain and storms in your life. Every day is not sunny and dry. So God allows storms to allow things to grow-including your trust in Him. He is the safe refuge from the storm, amazing how welcome a leaning, old cover can be in an abandoned gas station. He is the rain suit keeping you warm and dry, resting in His arms. He is the sunshine on the other side of the clouds, where it is always sunny. And He is the rainbow, reminding you how He will never leave you or forsake you. And He is the loving one who travels with you, rain or shine, and wants to be part of all your trips, and all your precious memories.

Only on a motorcycle would the weather have mattered. We could have done all the travelling in a car, and missed making friends, getting wet, and looking at rainbows. Turn up the heat, turn up the tunes, and grab a Big Gulp. Safe and secure from life, but not part of it. Maybe that is why we ride, so we can be part of life. So we can experience the things of God first hand, from behind the handlebars instead of from behind a windshield. An experience that brings us closer to God, which is what Jesus was sent to do. A time to reflect, sing, and praise Him as we go through the storm, instead of changing our plans when the clouds come. And it is in the storm we seek Him more!

You never question the sky or clouds when traveling in a car. But on a motorcycle you watch the sky, smell the air, and feel the wind change direction. You sense the temperature change as you go up and down through valleys and hills, and make decisions based on what you see-as opposed to what you are told. It is more personal, an actual ride of life, rather than just another trip in the car. A day riding like this is like the freedom Jesus gives from religion. You trust Him more, you experience more, and with friends you are building better memories-testimonies we call them. And when your best friend is Jesus, you know the time will be well spent.

What you do the next time it rains will tell as much about your riding as your relationship with God. Put on the rain suit, and be patient. No rainbow with rain, and no Easter without Good Friday. The only way to look back is by going forward first, and trusting God. The bigger the storm, the bigger the memory. And the brighter the sun afterward. Don't stay home when you could be out riding. The road calls, and its name is Jesus!

And it is even OK top put on your rain suit before the storm! Secure in the Lord!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

life hazards on the road of life

2012-01-13T07:52:00.000-08:00

On every trip you take, no matter the time or the length, their is always one section you wish you didn't have to ride. For a short commute, it may a string of lights that never are in sequence-patented by Escondido by the way, a section where a cop always sits waiting to ticket you at 41 in the 40 zone-fortunately he always has someone pulled over when you go whizzing by at 50 when you forget, or a stretch of highway like US 85 north out of Cheyenne on the way to Sturgis-more cattle than cars, and not many of them either. Maybe it is like going to Mary FNY's house from my parents in Jersey, 54 miles that takes two hours, and two toll bridges, Goethals $8.00 and the Verrazano $13.00! Half price for those wise enough to ride a motorcycle. But it seems that their is always going to be that one section of road, that messes up your mind while anticipating it, stresses you our while on it, and then leaves the residue of the memory of riding it as you ride on.

And when we finally arrive at our destination, we find no joy in the memory of the ride. Our wallet is lighter from tolls, we may have met the lousy revenue enhancer with the words "to protect and serve" on his car, or arrive in the Black Hills, not sure what time it is because of the imaginary line drawn via the railroads to create time zones. And no matter if an hour early, or an hour late, you're still hungry. So it must be lunch time! And on these excursions which lead us to somewhere, we have actually become a prisoner of the road, rather than enjoying the freedom on it.

How far is the next town, we often wonder while wandering on our rides? Good for planning gas and potty stops, or a home made root beer in New England. How about waiting an extra hour trying to figure out the roads in Pittsburgh, and shoot down the alley to Primanti's? Or my reserve light just came on, and the sign says next town 35 miles, 10 miles more than I have ever gone on reserve before? It seems there is always something to try and rob us of the joy of life and riding. Something very subtle, that we can't get out of minds, so go out of our minds. Like the stretch of road in eastern Tennessee, where you can go both east and west on US 70 at the same time. Or why do the roads in Massachusetts have no distance between towns signs? Or why in Texas, where roads are measured in hours till we arrive due to the size of the state, do they remind you every 5 miles of the distance to the next town? Why do Florida welcome stations have free OJ, and on a hot day served in 4oz. cups? Give me 8 please, I have a family in the car-hoping she won't see your helmet. It seems that no matter how we live, love, or travel, their are rules, regulations, signs, or somebody that will mess up the ride. But what do we do when that person is us?

Stay home? But then you have to contend with a wife and kids. Or the dog. Or the various people who notice you're home, and stop by to see why. The same ones who frown at you as your dog sniffs out a spot to go in their foot high weeds in their yard. Or the kids next door pick that day to have all their friends over. Yes, it seems that there is always something there to remind you of how life can interfere with your plans. Remember the song, Alice's Restaurant? And you thought it was made up? The song was more real than Arlo himself.

Such was the plight of Noah. For 120 years God had him build an ark, for his family he didn't have yet, for an event that had never happened before-rain. But he heard the voice of God, and followed it, despite the threats, jokes, graffiti, and all the fun made at his expense. He trusted God, because he knew His voice, and as hard as the times were, he was able to look ahead, knowing God would get him there safely. From what, he wasn't sure, but safe is safe no matter the road, or the detour. And he understood the importance of who you travel with. Even more when he and his family got in the ark and God sealed it up. And had to listen to those who had harassed him begging to be let in. But that only lasted for a short time. The memories lingered longer.

God's plans include you. And if the road you are on is rough, it means you are probably on the right road. Cops to warn, lights to protect us, tolls to break us, and signs to tell us where we are-or where we are going. And we never ride alone, even when we want to, for God never leaves us. Better than a GPS, He is the coordinates. Better than any road sign, He is the shortest distance, or the most scenic ride. He is the view from the top of the Verrazano, or the view from the gorge under the New River Bridge. He is the endless hills in Wyoming, and the Black Hills with gold. And no time zone can hold Him, He is time!

Like a good road is the destination, Jesus Christ is the final destination. And He is here right now! So enjoy the ride with Him. Rough roads, He will take you through, He knows where all the potholes of life are. Bridges-He knows how to get you over the obstacles in your life. The law-He died fulfilling it so you can live in His love, known as mercy and grace. And He has paid the price-in full, no toll booths on the way to heaven. Curves for motorcycles, wide lanes for trucks, and the scenic ways for those who seek Him, and want to enjoy the ride even more.

Trust Him today. Avoid the lousy commute, make the time more valuable with Him. If it takes 15 minutes more, listen to KWVE, and another teaching. Pay the toll for the guy behind you-really make his day. Maybe the Christian sticker on your car will finally mean something to him. And enjoy the ride as never before-without rushing!

This ride is called life, and only ridden in fullness with Jesus. Ask Him along on your next commute, or trip to the east coast. Enjoy the beauty that surrounds you, and if you really want to mess up someone's ride, smile at them. And mean it. If a biker, say follow me, I know this road. If in a car, let them merge in ahead of you. Pray for those stressed out, and don't be like them. For you don't have to be-the choice is yours!

Would Noah ride? What he would ride is the better question. But we can be sure he would ride with Jesus. Someone he knows, and trusts. Maybe you would trust Him more if you knew Him better? Take a ride to consider that. May be the best ride you ever take! For He rides, not sure what on any given day, but whatever you are on, believe me-He can keep up! Suddenly the ride has a whole new attitude! Enjoy it! With God!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

extreme makeover-life edition

2012-01-11T21:37:00.001-08:00

I always enjoy seeing someone whom I haven't seen for awhile. And you would think that after living in So Cal for 25 years, that most people I run into would know me from here. I'm not sure if it's too many miles, too many roads, too many churches, or too many addresses, but lately I meet people who know me, but I can't remember them. I used to try to not look stupid, but ended up worse off than I started, so now I just ask, "what do you ride or where do you go to church?" For my peer group and most of my acquaintances are found in both. And when they ride, I get excited. We may have meet at Mick's, or they remember me from being on a Press Bike. It may have been a ride, a Toy run, or even at a shop. But we have motorcycling in common. But what saddens me is when they admit they used to ride. And how it was a passion until they got married. Their new romance said "get rid of the bike," and they did, leaving a void that still has not been replaced. And somehow, I know when we meet again we won't chat, for our relationship has also been robbed. We have nothing in common anymore, and they leave bitter because of what used to be, and what now is.

But when they say we met at church, or a concert, or a rally, I get even more excited. Neat old memories of worshipping God together, and trusting Jesus with our lives. But even sadder is when they admit they haven't been in church in years. Life interfered with God, and between trying to stay married, raising kids, having a career, and making payments, an hour on Sunday just didn't fit in the schedule. So now they sit home, haven't read a Bible in years, and wonder what happened. Where did God go? The answer only found in a similar answer as to why the other friend stopped riding. They abandoned God, and riding-not the other way around. And we usually end the conversation sad, because now I too have also been robbed of a friendship because of their bad decisions. Truly sin is not an isolated event, it touches so many we never think it does. Shame on us, and our lives show it.

But it doesn't have to be that way. They still make motorcycles-faster, better braking, and better handling than ever before. We live in a golden age of motorcycling, name price and a type of bike, sign your name and ride off. Go back to your first love, take a long lunch, maybe swing by the shop on your way home. Convince the wife that the two of you riding will be the perfect thing your marriage needs, and go all the places your friends talk about-together. Have her sit on back, just to try it out, respect her as a passenger, and renew the vows with your first love.

God is still alive and well, and misses you. he never wanted you to leave, and is the only one who can put your life back in order-maybe to have time to ride. Ask a Christian friend what time their church has services, and go. Sunday mornings, and Wednesday, Sunday, and Saturday nights-no excuse not to find an hour on any one of these days. Enjoy a personal revival with Jesus, you can only revive something that was alive once, and enjoy the freedom in the spirit that has been missing in your life, marriage, and your career.

And don't stop there-next time we meet tell me all about your new rides, and how God is now again in your life. How your wife enjoys touring, and her friends are envious of her. Tell me about the new Bible study you are in, and how your kids love going to church, how your marriage is alive again because Jesus is in it again. God never left us or forsakes us, we turn away from Him. But He is always there to welcome us back, not to look back on what we've missed, but to look ahead to where we are going.

I guess the only left to say is, "welcome back my friend, welcome back..."

Whether riding or worshipping, we are so glad you could attend, come along, come along...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Hey Jude-read the book not the song

2012-01-11T08:05:00.000-08:00

I got an e-mail forwarded to me the other day, and I am real good at dumping forwards, but something told me to open this one. It told of how the US of A was sending warships over to the Middle East to defend Israel against the latest threats from Iran. Since I had heard nothing on the news, so I decided to Google it, and many Mid East news reports confirmed it. Wanting to know more, I got on CNN's web site-NO mention of it! Even did a word search for it, nothing even archived! Could this be true, the world's greatest-their own words, news reporting station missed this? So I checked Fox, and guess what-NO mention of it either! Not even archived when searched! Is that fair, or just stupid?

Finally yesterday, I saw a small blurb running across the bottom during a newscast that the Carl Vinson was involved there for training exercises. Almost a full week after the event, finally an acknowledgment! And not even mentioned in the newscast! Hope no one lost their job over that one.

Maybe I should check these forwards more carefully. It seems we have become a society that is based on gossip-what do you think Face book really is, on important news items such as Lindsay Lohan's latest drunk driving escapade, or the adjusting of the unemployment figures. Don't get that one myself, either you are working, or you're not. So we never do get the truth. So much for the fourth estate and integrity. Sanitized for their protection. Never yours.

The book of Jude, the one right before Revelation warns of these liars. Read it. Only one chapter. More there than on any 60 Minutes broadcast. Read 2John too. They tell and warn about false teachers. Check the scriptures, see if God or CNN knows more. And who is telling the truth? Now, who is really fair and balanced?

But certain things are going on that effect everyone. And as Christians we have been given a front row seat via prophecy. We need to pray for Israel, and Netanyahu. And us, too! For scripture warns that anyone who is against Israel is God's enemy, and anyone who is her friend is His friend. What part of that don't we get? Yet as we see all nations in the world turn against this New Jersey sized country, we show little or no interest. And we need to, for all the final battles are here, and many today too, and so it should be our focus. Our future is Israel based. Does it make sense to remain their friend? Do friends treat friends like the White House treat Netanyahu?

These are the last days, and we should focus more on God than ever. A change is coming, a rebirth, note the Bible never tells us the world will end, it describes birth pangs. And that part of these events will be a removal by God of all Christians, the rapture, then the tribulation. If you are a non-believer, and think it is tough with us here, you do not want to be here after we are gone. Hollywood will not even come close with all the FX available. Satan is in charge then, he hates God, so what do you think he thinks of you? Satan, aka Lucifer was once the music of heaven-his body was all the instruments. But he wanted to be praised like God, and he and 1/3 of the angels were thrown from heaven. He is still Prince of the Airwaves, maybe that explains pornography, decadent music, and the lack of truth in the media. He is his own propaganda department, and controls the air! Yes, talk radio, too. Spreading lies about God, making fun of Jesus, and trying to belittle Christians every chance he gets. Tim Tebow is just his latest target. Do you want to make the news? Take a stand for Jesus! But God is still in control! So do not fear!

Only God can snatch victory from defeat's claws. Not the other way around. And His will goes far deeper than any news company, government, or individual's. He is love, and when we turn to Him can experience joy and peace far beyond anything understandable. So why try to understand, when the peace you seek is freely available? How about trusting God, and letting Him be God? So He can make you a better you?

Deep in the archives the media already has reports ready to release after the rapture occurs. UFO's, atomic war, plagues, the GOP, and who knows what else will be given as an excuse. And the world will be thrilled as anti-Christ takes over to free them from the bondage that Christians put the world under. A liar until the end. So you see, the media knows what goes on, it is their choice to report it or not. To slant it or not. To be fair and balanced or not. How many times must you lie before you are known as one? Only in Jesus will you get truth-the truth!

Sincerity only counts if you believe the truth. Sincerely following a lie ends in disaster. So ask God today how to pray. Much work is left, and few workers. Which means more blessings for those who do work! The season is here, the signs are there, but where are you? Be a newsmaker, and go in the rapture-this is one event you never want to read about after it has happened. And pray for Israel, and Netanyahu. Contrary to what the Godfather says, "keep your enemies close, but God closer." And His family of believers. And rest in the comfort that He will never leave you or forsake you...no matter what the news says!

Only the gospel is good news...let's report that more and see what a difference it makes!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

shopping for a motorcycle with Jesus

2012-01-10T07:57:00.000-08:00

The purpose of an advertisement is to get you excited about the product, then into the showroom, where a trained salesman can show you how you can't live without it, and help you figure out what you can live without while making the payments. So in 1983, when Honda shocked the riding world with a V-4 motor, and put it in a race type package, called a VFR750, we were impressed. And even more so when my friend Don bought one. When he got the call from Gary at Handlebar Cycle it had come in, we finished our routes early and went down. Mike in service was just taking it out of the crate, and was actually using a torque wrench during assembly. Now we had heard of torque wrenches, and had seen them used as hammers, and pry bars-but to actually use one to assemble a bike, this must be one awesome machine! And it was, and Don even made a trip to So Cal from Durango with me.

But remembering how the early eighties were a golden era, the market for performance no longer fell to a small 750, it took 1000cc to buy in. And so Honda came out with a VFR1000! 117 horsepower! My wife's Mazda only had 82! I had to have one, and soon was trying to figure out to influence my banker how to lend me the money, my wife to see the need-read lust, and how my kids just may never go to college-Dad had to ride! But as much as the ads told me it was the ultimate bike to have-it even had a blue seat, which suddenly made all other seats seem dull, the magazines panned it. 117hp, was only 95. It was heavy, hot, fast but ill handling, and almost $2000 more than the 750. And they sat for years on dealership floors-Gary as late as 1987 trying to sell me his new 1984. And I had lost all interest in it-an early lesson on real life, and lust. When the advertising is the products major strength-stay away. The ads were great, the product in no way would deliver. And I cannot ever remember seeing one except in showrooms-not one on the road. Where as limited views produce limited lives, here an excellent advertising campaign produced a huge view, I was only saved from it by God. Always remember, all lies are based on truth. Even when it comes to motorcycles. Save the stories for bench racing.

When I first got saved a popular story was of a young Mexican man-I lived in Albuquerque, and how a faith teacher taught all he had to do was name it, claim it, and God would provide it. Being a huge Cadillac fan, he asked for one, even knew all the options he wanted, and sat home for a week waiting for the car to magically appear in his driveway. When it came time for church on Sunday, and no car, he never went back. Partially pride mixed with disappointment, he was embarrassed and figured God was a liar-based on the teacher's lie. Trusting man, but doubting God left him alone and at odds with God. Never a good place to be. Still not sure if God is a GM man or not.

I tell people if I have a house fire, hand me an extinguisher, not a checkbook. Meet the need! And when we had a fire, did exactly that. God provided the extinguisher-no check or money would have put out the fire. I had a definite need, and God provided, thankfully. And I wonder, do we live in a VFR1000 world, wanting to believe all the sizzle the ad promises, do we give up on God when the Cadillac of our prayers never shows up in my driveway, or am I thankful when God meets my needs and puts out the fire? Thankful wins in my book. Today we have no idea what will come next. I think in a 1000cc existence, but have learned to live in a 750cc world. Where God provides, Jesus saves, and we obey. God watches out for those who are his and obey, He also watches out for those who don't! Imagine if you would the outcome of a new VFR1000 in my garage. No money to ride it, strained banking relationships, strained marriage, and Christopher no college. Just so I could ride...

Ask Jesus to help you today. Let the spirit guide you. Two years later I got my 1000cc ride, an FJ1100, a year old leftover, at dealer cost, and put over 75,000 miles on it-6600 in the first week! A much better bike, at much less money. Waiting on God has its rewards. God not only rides, but can read ads and negotiate a better deal than you ever can.

If your god's major attribute is found in its advertising, try truth. The truth, found only in Jesus Christ. Whether on two wheels, or four, He is looking out for us. An extinguisher when we need it, and a motorcycle to feed the passion He gave us. Still dreaming? Still lusting when you could be out riding? Trust God! Motorcycles may come and go-only Jesus will last forever.

Hey, did you see the new ad for the Kawahonaha-Triguzzi? 250 horsepower, and only $39,995! Let's see, if I sell everything I own, live with relatives, and get 10 year financing...I still can't afford groceries and gas for it! Only in God, does a no protect us, and lead us to a much better yes later on!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

why old bikers limp... and you don't have to

2012-01-09T08:18:00.000-08:00

It has been said that to finish first, you must first finish. But little is said about starting, something we all have in common, particularly when compared to finishing. Take getting your bike started, for instance. Each day there is one less member of an entire generation of motorcyclists who limp due to kick starting. An entire generation of Brit bike ridiers who had engrained in them how to start their T120, TR6, or 441. How we all remember the procedure-turn on gas, push down ticklers until fuel soaks shoe and socks, pull in clutch and kick through to release clutch, then find TDC and kick away. And a fine tuned biker and bike would usually start on the second try, or start walking to work. Hobble actually, as part of the starting procedure was the kick starter coming back and slamming against your ankle, and at best leaving it bruised, with even some breaking due to ignorance. It took a real man, who would rather limp than drive a car, to start old bikes.

But with the Japanese invasion of motorcycles in the late sixties, all you did was push a button. After turning on the choke, your bike started, and off you went. Smiling, maybe that was why you met the nicest people on a Honda-no bad ankles. The only sacrifice was the endless stream of cussing from when the bike kicked you back. But being human, we soon found other reasons to express ourselves in the seven words you can't say on the radio.

But it was the kick starter, that lever that rested next to your right ankle when not in use, and threatened to render your ankles purple that gave way to a button-and living better through electricity. Perhaps the most important breakthrough, and the most overlooked invention ever in motorcycling. Allowing many to start riding, and continue riding long after their kick starting skills were gone. And a generation who was raised on it disappearing, hobbling off into the sunset of eternity, never having known the power of pushing a button.

Or of owning a pair of boots that didn't smell of hi-test.

Maybe the reason we don't like the beginning is because it takes so much effort. Starting a new job, going on a first date, and trusting God when getting into ministry. If only we could come along somewhere in the middle, and forego all the start up problems, we would be a lot better off. I would not want to start the ministry God has given me over today. But yet everyday I am faced with new challenges-new starting points. And when I look back over the past four years, what started with visiting a little girl in the LA Children's Hospital, has flourished into a daily devotional, read on six continents, translated into Russian, and a prisoner and patient ministry. Impatient sometimes if you ask me. You can throw in all the rest for fun. I don't mind the growth, please God, I don't want to have to start over.

But yet we find even God started in the beginning. In the beginning, out of nothing, a triune God created the heavens and the earth. A one time effort, without benefit of errors or kick starting. He was smarter than us, being God, and just spoke it all into existence. Even better than an electric starter-only God would know the best way! I wish I could adapt that to my Bonneville. So while explaining what came first, the chicken or the egg, to a man working at my house, he found joy in knowing it was the chicken. A self proclaimed science buff, it put God in perspective in his life. And hopefully has started him on a relationship with God, because of Jesus. This is his beginning. This is his start of knowing God-not just all about Him, but knowing Him personally. Much different.

So when faced with questions you cannot answer, turn to God. And just this once, let yourself be a kid again. Or still, in my case. Use the old stand-by excuse that kids in all countries have used for hundreds of years. When questioned about creation, just say "He did it!" Just like you would blame your little brother, lay the blame on God. He did it, and still does today. New beginnings for all who just meet Him, and continued joy for those of us old timers. Trusting the Holy Spirit to guide you into all knowledge, and peace. Think of it as a kick starter-with no kick back. No purple ankles, forget about the limp. Even forego the electric start, takes too long. Just open up to God today, and ask Him into your heart. Happens that quick.

That's the gospel-so easy even an old biker could use it. Or a housewife, student, prisoner, or doctor. Which leaves more time for riding. Hey honey, where did I leave the keys to the Bonne? Seems there will always be something...

Jesus Christ, the key to life. Why not start with Him today!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

hey man, unless you're passing, get out of the fast lane

2012-01-06T07:40:00.000-08:00

Fakes, shams, charlatans, wanna-bes, and pretenders. We all know them, those who pretend to be something that they aren't, trying to achieve a status so as to be accepted. In the biking community we call them posers. And to those of us who really are, they are easily spotted. Which is where the saying $20,000 and 20 miles don't make you a biker comes from. It shows. You just can't see it because you don't know what to look for. And the world of the biking community is filled with them. Where have all the custom, chopper buyers gone? I've never been a chopper fan, just don't get the look, although I do like bobbers. And I never found pleasure in riding something that was uncomfortable, took four lanes to turn around in, and was vastly overpriced. And it seems all these $50,000 plus social expressions are now for sale-cheap. Get one while you can, before they're gone-and a new group of posers show up.

I find the same thing in sport bike riders, go up any popular hangout on Sunday morning, and you can tell the ones who ride, vs. those who are pretty boys. One look at the sides of the tread on their tires tells you if they ride fast or not. If the sides are worn more than the middle, they are the real thing. New leathers don't make you Kenny Roberts. Or a new Yamaha either. It seems everyone who rides is looking for an individuality by belonging to a certain group. To me, the true outlaws, outside of the 1%'ers, are the ones who ride because they love too. An intensity that shows past their worn leathers and standard ride. Who have done things to their bikes to make them individual, the custom word would never be used here. Guys and girls who ride because they have the spirit of the open road in them, and can't describe the freedom in riding, because they don't understand it. It goes much deeper than words, but take one ride with them and you get it. For some things are only lessened when trying to use words. The ones who know don't try to explain-it's that personal. It is called passion.

Being out and about in the biker community I spend time with people who ride. Talking with two guys on custom bikes-they were young guys who had put together their bikes from parts from others-function before form, but knew the canyons in Malibu, and their tires proved it, they rode no matter what their ride looked like. And it takes all types, some who are in the way, and some who you wish would get out of your way. We know who you are. If you don't know, ask us-we'll set you straight. And we all ride at different levels, with different people, at different speeds, on different roads. But we all ride, the difference is in our hearts.

Not much different than people who go to church, and even call themselves Christians. I was told recently that I was intense about Jesus. At first I wasn't sure what that meant, but Theresa explained to me it was a compliment. For what was seen as intense, is really a passion. A passion for Jesus Christ. A passion that as I get closer to Him, cannot help but show in all aspects of my life. A passion that cannot help but come out of me, because it is me! So I ask you, if you call yourself a Christian, are you ever accused of it? Is it your words or your actions that might get you accused? Is it a vest, a membership in a club, knowing a pastor, attending a church, or knowing someone who does all the above? Guilty by association, but never present. Do you quote Oprah more than Paul? Are you known in the Christian community by your attendance or by your fruit? Stop and self examine yourself, an exhortation from the Apostle Paul. If your list consists of a Bible cover, membership card, bumper sticker and a choir robe-go to the back of the line. Reread what it takes from the pretty Bible inside of the plastic cover. For many have gone out from the church, who have the appearance of Christians, but are really posers. They speak the words, know the right songs on K-LOVE, and even carry a Bible. I even had a so-called brother pointed out to me who had put a Daily Bread cover on a cheap novel, trying to impress me. Are you in the word, or is the word in you? Poser!

So to all who truly believe, and live the life for Jesus, I will keep you in prayer. Beware of the wolves in sheep clothing, for they are not of Jesus. And He knows, and a sad ending awaits them if they don't repent. Don't buy into their words, beliefs, or lifestyle. Stay true to God, and trust only Him. No new revelations-or dates of Jesus return. Or those who study it. NEVER exchange what you know for something you don't know. Stay in the spirit! And a note to all who are posers-we can tell! And if we can, do you think you are fooling God? And if you think you can fool God, how stupid are you to follow a God who can be deceived?

Passion-more than an emotion, it is a person called Jesus. From the heart, that shows in your life. So to those who wish to impress others with their knowledge, and lifestyle, who need a shirt, vest, or sticker on their truck to tell us all about Jesus, I offer this request from all of us who are worn out with your posing. Don't brag to us about what a great Christian you are, SHOW US!

Preach the word daily, and when needed use words. The emperor in this community doesn't need new clothes, these old leathers fit just fine. Custom made just for you, by Jesus. Who never goes out of style either. Pretty bike, looks new, must have cost a lot, now you were saying....

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the poverty of a rich man

2012-01-05T07:41:00.000-08:00

While waiting for the doctor I read an article that told how Phillip Rivers, sometimes winning quarterback for the Chargers makes $15.3 million per year. Fifth highest paid player in the NFL. And at first I will admit I was a bit jealous. The $105 doctor visit bill staring me in the face seemed insurmountable when compared to my income, and thought how nice it would be to have insurance. But after my brief pity party-amazing how you don't always have to go to the party, it will come to you, I thought of all the things he would be missing because of his high income. And suddenly I felt like the richer man, I only wish I could spend the richness I felt at the grocery store!

I remember a rich businessman telling me once how you either had the time or the money-but rarely both. He explained how we would work 50 weeks a year, just to take a two week vacation, which most times would be spent with relatives. Which could make the drudgery of the job seem like a real vacation after a couple of days. How so many make the money, but never have time to spend it. Or have the time, but no resources to enjoy it. And like it says in Ecclesiastes, "the rich man never has enough money and stays up nights worrying about it." How many have that promise of God in their prayer box?

Rich has been described as anyone who makes more than me. And to many I used to be rich. I had a six figure income, a prestigious title, but little time to enjoy it. Ten to five comes early in the morning, and having dinner after six every night leaves little time to yourself when you are in bed by nine! I spent more time at work than I did with my family. And I even realized the extra 3 hours I got on Saturday and Sunday equated an extra nights sleep. But no rest. And yes the money was great, I felt cool cashing my paycheck, but something was missing. An intangible, that appeared more tangible than not.

I used to admire guys who always had money on them when a deal came along. and I now did, and after taking advantage of many deals, had more than I could have desired. But as you acquire more, the dreams get more expensive, and I soon learned value-for it is not what you make, but how you spend it. And I learned that trusting God had more value than the $125,000 credit line I had to go shopping with. Soon my desire for things waned, just before they started owning me. For the things I couldn't buy-time and peace, were so valuable they were free. And given as gifts. Only found in a relationship with God. And how God's economy is far different-read better, than anything the world has to offer.

When a church I used to attend brought in a "Perspectives" series, at about $250 a pop, and discontinued Bible studies, I questioned it. After being told how great it was, I asked if it was better than the gospel. "No," they admitted, "but you get college credits or a certificate at the end." When I reminded them the gospel was free, the conversation ended. Sadly some chose a different perspective than the gospel, and missed the true value of it. When something is so valuable no one could afford it, then it has to be free. And since the gospel is free, its value in inestimable in God's economy, and the only way to see its true value is to make it free-which is how it will make those who accept it.

Which brings us to God. And Phillip, and others like him. And us. You see, tribulation can have its own rewards. If I was never sick, I would never have known Jesus as the great physician. If I had all the wealth, you can take me and ten friends and we will never see $15 million in our lifetimes, then I wouldn't know Jesus as Jehovah Jireh, my provider. If I didn't have to trust God for all my needs, I wouldn't know Him as Lord. But most important, if I hadn't realized my sin, I would never have know Jesus as my savior. In the battle of things seen vs. not seen, we are told the things not seen are eternal. Those are truly the valuables in life, and after.

Now I don't begrudge Phillip the income-he'd be nuts to turn it down. As would we. But sadly he will never see the sides of Jesus that the poor, needy, and trusting in God see every day. For these type of riches come with a curse. A high price tag. And an adjustment of values. Or even loss of values. So pray for him, and those like him. They too need Jesus, for although money can buy a lot of things, it won't get you to heaven. Only Jesus will. Like the doxology says, "praise God from whom all blessings flow..." And I like how Pete Maravich said it, who had both money and fame-but no glory until he met Jesus. "Money will buy a fine dog, but only love will make it wag its tail."

For truly it is easier for a rich man to get through the eye of a needle than to get to heaven. And joy is not the absence of suffering, but the presence of God. And a high salary is no guarantee of a Super Bowl ring. Take the time today to get right with God. May be the best investment you make this year. Like always, His grace is sufficient for you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the same, only different-and why size matters

2012-01-04T07:21:00.000-08:00

This oughta cheer you up-we are more alike than we like to admit. There...now that you are basking in that truth, one of the ways we are alike, is our self inflicted wounds. Wounds that we don't have to go out of the body for-literally. But that can drive us out of our minds. Wounds that we see coming, know what to do, but choose the wrong way instead, and endure the wound, a literal shooting of ourselves in the foot. Been there, done that. Wish I had paid better attention.

My latest escapade was on New Years Eve afternoon. Dan was putting a rear tire on the

Street Triple, aka S3, and told me I needed a new chain. Not a surprise, at 20k it was worn, and the last time it was adjusted was when the old rear tire was installed, over 15,000 miles ago. I think I did pretty good. He also mentioned the sprockets were worn, but not enough to change, just a chain at this time. So off I went, the chain still loose, but only in spots, and started to check out chains on the internet. Simple, huh?

Well, what size chain does an S3 have? Not listed in the owners manual. No S3 forum told of the size, and even chain manufacturers' web sites from DID to Tsubaki didn't mention it. In fact, some only sold it with sprockets, and they weren't cheap! So after wasting too much time on something I didn't need right now, and wouldn't be getting for a couple months, I was hooked on finding out what size chain it had. And then, who would sell it the cheapest. Just when frustration was about to turn maniacal, I decided to wait. What did it matter today anyway? But what was that size?

So Tuesday I was exiled from the house while my ceilings were being painted from the fire. And stopping at the Triumph shop, figured Grinny would know. We have been friends for over 24 years, and he is a Yamaha legend, and with Triumph for 10 years should know. His books didn't say either, but had the price of chain only at a lot more than I was willing to spend. He even got out and under an S3 and looked on the chain-the size used to be imprinted on the link. Nothing. So...it being Tuesday, and fed up with something this simple, I called Mickey. Which I should have done in the first place. "525," he said. "Comes in a kit, that is cheap." And again reminded me why people from all over the US with Triumph problems call him. And also reminded me of why to replace the sprockets too. Where I was trying to cheap out, he wanted to do it right. And for about only $30 more than just the chain. So next time I do a bike swap, the S3 gets a new chain and sprockets. By the guy who has been the only one since 1996 to work on my bikes. I trust no one else. So why, did I go off on this three day tear into frustration? Once again stupid hurts.

One of the saddest things I hear in hospitals is "the doctors have done all they can, I guess we have to pray now." Pray now? Why aren't you praying first? How do you know what to do unless you ask? Then obey! How many lives are lost or healings delayed because we try to lean on our own understanding? Just the opposite that God tells us to do. He says trust! He knows what to do, all we need to do is listen and obey.

And it always works, when you are in the spirit. Don't use man's solutions for a spiritual issue-they will not work! But God, can use the things of man, to solve a problem. But you must first ask. Ever want to read the Bible but don't get it? Have you prayed first, asking the spirit to guide you? Remember the spirit is our helper, who guides us in all things. He is the one who lovingly pointed us to Jesus for salvation, and comforts us when we go astray. Who shows us what scriptures to read, and explains them to us like no one else can. Could this be why we should pray first?

Are you seeking God first, or the internet? Are you asking opinions until you find one that agrees with your opinion? Are you following His direction, knowing what He tells is the right advice? Are facts more important than opinions? You have trusted Him with salvation, don't you think He can deal with your other problems as well?

Then all these things will be added unto you. Wisdom not found on any web site, parts catalog, seasoned parts man, or on the side of the chain. Go to God first! A lesson well remembered! For that person riding past you when you are still fretting about your bike, could be you if you only trust God.

Man self inflicts pain, Jesus shows mercy and grace. Your choice. I rather be riding. And enjoying the blessings of God. A lesson to remember the next time a situation develops.

Hey, while you're here, does anyone know which tire is better, the Q2 or the Pirelli? I'm gonna need tires in a few months...sorry, old habits die hard. Seek God first, and all will be added unto you. Pray in the spirit, ask the spirit to guide, then obey the spirit. If you don't know, ask the one who knows!

And to those of you with shaft or belt drive, thank you for your patience. If it has wheels someday it'll get ya. Just remember, the rules are still the same no matter what you ride-it's all about Jesus!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

girls ride too, get over it

2012-01-03T07:21:00.000-08:00

For the first 27 years of our marriage, Theresa was my buddy seat sitter. Then one day, she and Christopher decided to take riding lessons, at the suggestion of a friend, to see if they really wanted to ride. When I received a phone call on their first break advising me to "get me a bike of my own," I knew it was serious. And so I did, a used 2003 red Bonneville. Which they shared, with Christopher riding it 95% of the time. But one day she was able to pry it from his hands, and took her first solo ride. The next phone call I got was not as encouraging. While sitting at a light, someone had run into the truck in back of her, and then the truck hit her-sending her up in the air, and the bike traveling over 60' without her on it. Totaled! But she was OK. A hit and run no less, but they caught the loser, and he did more jail time! But would she ever ride again?

After being told that she didn't do anything wrong, and encouraged by the other three riders in the family, we took the money from the settlement and bought me a new bike-she wanted my blue Bonneville. Funny how God works things out. And she decided to ride again, despite bad advice, and any personal fears she might have had. She had to trust God. And a wise decision it was, as she has now ridden over 45,000 miles herself, and almost 100,000 addition miles as my buddy seat sitter since then. Her commitment was displayed when Pastor Fred offered to trailer her bike to the Hollister Rally that year with his, a 1000 mile round trip ride. "No, I'm riding," she said, and did, and has more than once. But the change came when she had to deal with her fears of riding. Or more precisely, of being hit again. A decision not made easily, as it would have affected our lives, lifestyle, ministry, and our marriage. But her fear of God-aka respect, far outweighed her fear of danger, and her trusting God has led to countless trips, in over 48 states, and ministry opportunities beyond description. A lesson for all who fear injury, but not God.

Ezekiel 47 tells of a man who is walking by a river with God. A river flowing from a holy mountain, and then into a sea that is alive. A sea alive with the Lord. At first the man walks on the shore, ankle deep, and is blessed. But as God leads, he is soon waist deep. More blessings, but still he can touch bottom. Still walking on his own. God is just along for the walk at this time. Finally he is tested when he is told to go where he must swim, where he cannot touch bottom, and to trust God. And when he does, the best blessings are there. The water being a symbol of the Holy Spirit, it is only when fully immersed you see the greater things of God. It is when you trust Him, and not your situation, so you see the love poured out. And multiple blessings unfold, blessings not found when your feet are secure. Ask Peter, for when he walked on the water to Jesus, he could have bragged how "he" walked on the water, when really it was just an act of obedience. But when he fell in, and the water was deep, over his head, with a storm raging, that Jesus reached out and grabbed him to safety. Then, it became personal.

Today you will have the chance to join those who quit under adversity. I hear too many "real bikers" who never will ride again after a small fall. And let a passion that God has given them be taken away. When really, if they trusted God, the results would be much different. Too many blessings missed by giving up. Fearing situations rather than revering and trusting God. So fear God, just like the gospel says. Not out of fear, like falling, but out of respect for who He is. Trust Jesus. If He can save your soul, don't you think He can ride with you?

Ask my wife. For her decision that day, like yours, will impact others. A decision I am glad she made. For ministry is one thing, but like riding, it is much better when you do it with the one you love. Together we do both together. But came that close to losing it all. Just ask the man who walked on the water, which event changed his life more. And trust Jesus in all you do.

Seven more years of riding together, 48 states, 45,000 miles on her own bike, and the endless times we got blessed-together. With more to come. All based on one decision-trusting God. No excuses-you can either ride or trailer your bike through life. As for me and my family, we choose to ride with the Lord. Make the right decision today-and let the blessings begin. Ride without your feet touching the ground, lean deeper into the curves and see more of Jesus and His blessings than you ever could from behind a windshield. Immersed in the love of the Holy Spirit. Whoever says Jesus doesn't ride never asked Him along. He does and loves to. Your choice....Like her license plate frame says "Girls ride too-get over it!"

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

what colors is blue?

2012-01-02T07:45:00.000-08:00

Sitting at the corner of Sunset Blvd. and the PCH in Malibu is a Von's with a patio overlooking the ocean. And on this afternoon, as we sat drinking our Coke with the latte crowd, our view of the afternoon sun on the Pacific was beautiful. With the sun hitting the blues, it created so many hues that they were difficult to take in. Just tilting your head a bit caused a whole new spectrum to appear, and the light show on the Pacific that afternoon was incredible. But in contrast to what God offered that afternoon, were the cars sitting at the light on PCH waiting for it to turn green. With some 30 cars waiting, they were all black, white, or shades of grey. In a complete contrast to the ocean, these cars were boring. They were almost depressing to look at, so we cast our eyes back upon the ocean. And even to these color blind eyes, I may not know all the colors I see, but give me color anytime.

Before this generation of drab colored vehicles, we had colors. Blues, reds, greens, yellows, and variations on all those themes, colors giving personality and life to what we drove. Colors with names, just to share a few from the 55-57 Chevy color charts. Colors that would liven up any plain sedan, and give it the illusion of the reddest of convertibles. Poetic colors, romantic colors, bright and alive colors. Gypsy red, India ivory, Dusk pearl, Sierra gold, Nassau blue, Crocus yellow, and Laurel green-a color pallet that even the names spoke excitement. And as late as 10 years ago I even had a truck painted Atlantic Bright blue metallic clearcoat. Maybe the prettiest blue ever-definitely way ahead of anything at that Malibu intersection that day. Colors that told about us, that gave us life, and helped us stand out from the crowd. Colors that gave life,and boy do we need more life and color today.

God is light, and that is where color comes from. Reflecting through a glass as in a prism, or reflecting off the ocean, or watching a New Mexico sunset, these all reflect the unending color range that God has available. No blacks or grays-but real color. As shown via Mr. ROY G. BIV. The colors of the rainbow-red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. But with millions of hues in between when God shines His light on them. Which leads me to the question, what color is your God? What light of God's shines out from you? Is it the colors of the rainbow, with all the possibilities in between, or are you shades of gray? Is there color to your life, or just the background of daily life? For what shines in you, reflects what will shine out of you. Do you want more God in your life? Get ready for more color. Do you really want Jesus to be Lord of your life? Get ready for colors you have never seen before-a spectrum of love that no artist could duplicate. Colors with names that reflect who God is, and who you are. The colors of love, joy, peace, and patience. Blues that relieve the blues. Kindness, goodness, and meekness. Greens that reflect a truly green environment, not just an ecological slogan. Reds that glow from the heart, and yellows that give light to the darkest day. Colors-a message from God long ago via a rainbow to Noah, and a reminder that He is beauty and light-no darkness at all!

Today may be the crocus yellow morning you are looking for. Or that Nassau blue afternoon you so much desire. A gypsy red evening may be awaiting you, but only in God will you see all the colors of life He has for you. Only through His eyes will the infinite color spectrum be available, and visible. So trust and try it God's way today. You may be a four door sedan in life, but let the colors of the gospel show you off as the red convertible you long to be. A world with and of color, provided by Jesus Christ.

What color is your God? All the above colors and more. Colors that you will never see if you don't know Him. Maybe there is a reason hearses are black. So let your light shine wherever and whenever and whatever you are driving. Or riding. And remember that even on the cloudiest day, just on the other sides of the clouds is the most beautiful blue you can imagine. Let Jesus reign in your life-He is truly the colors of the day!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

RIP 2011

2011-12-22T08:04:00.000-08:00

Good morning, this is my last devotion of the year 2011. Number 224! That's right, 224. And I am understandably tired. And you should be too. We have been through a lot together. But 224? If your pastor preached every Sunday last year, and if you attended, you would have heard 52 messages about God, I have written more than FOUR times that this year. To say the least, the Holy Spirit has been busy many mornings this year. If you don't believe in miracles, try that one yourself. There you go, proof of the Holy Spirit, for without Him the number drops to zero. So I am going to rest and spend time with my family. We will be wearing name tags the first few days, until we get familiar with each other again, but we all need a rest. It has been a year where I have seen God do more with less, aka me, and I am amazed. Somewhere between your prayers, my occasional obedience, and His mercy and grace, I made it until today. So much to reflect on and be thankful for.

But He also reminds me to rest, for next year the challenges are going to be greater. Just watching the news shows us how scripture concerning the last days is unfolding. The rapture of the church is imminent-are you ready? So many times this year God has reminded me of the urgency of this, and instructed me to be about HIS business, and He will take care of mine. So I pass that good advice on to you-be about God's business. For all conventional ways of doing business may fade away, or be taken away in the next year. No wonder it is written in 2 Corinthians that the things seen are temporal, but the things not seen are eternal. So I will be resting up, for 2012 will be an exciting year.

Not because of the Mayan calendar, or Hollywood movies, or who is in the White House, or even perverse, satanic uttering's from so-called Christians predicting the end of the world. It is because of Jesus Christ, and the wedding feast with Him. He will soon call for His bride-us, and like a Jewish bridegroom, doesn't know the time or date until His Father tells Him. Then the trumpet will blow, He will call for His bride, and the party begins. In heaven. With us! Beware of anyone who tries to figure or tell you a time. NO ONE but God the Father knows. And He ain't telling! So if Jesus doesn't know, what makes you think He would He tell you?

This past year I have spent time with some incredible people, who have impacted my life. Gavin and Lynsay-wow! Alex who only last week went to heaven. Fr. Al whose friendship I dearly covet, and who God has spared yet another cancer so He can minister to others. The population in Heaven has grown through God's grace by more people I know and loved this year than ever before. From Lee, Don, Tammi, Bill, Alex, Randy, Mena, my Shirl girl, and others, God showed mercy and took them home. At the feast, just waiting for the guests to arrive. My prayer-make sure you are there, it takes Jesus. Make sure you are on the guest list, aka the Book of Life. Trust God.

For 224 times this year I hope that I have been an encouragement to you, and others. From my writings, to John sharing them in prison through air vents, to my bikers friends in Minsk, to all of you who claim Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior-Happy New Year. Keep up the good work. Man may not notice, but God does. And some of us do also.

Keep my family in prayer as this month has brought many challenges.
But it also brings more opportunities for God to be God, and to make new testimonies. Keep both my sons in prayer as they both lost their jobs this month, through no fault of their own. We had a small fire and will have parts of the house redone by insurance. Keep our financial needs in your prayers. When God called me He promised "manna in my garage, my refrigerator, and for my mortgage." And not to ask for money. HE has been faithful, and allowed me to do His work instead of asking for money via letters, e-mails, and support mail. No major donors here, just a benevolent Dad, who wants to be God in my life. Just like the apostles, He sent me out with what I have on, and has met all my needs. A lesson to all, and especially for me-it ain't always easy. But the benefits are incredible!

So trust God this next year. As houses are foreclosed more than ever, as jobs become scarcer, and as world events spell catastrophe, remember that God takes care of His children. So let Him! As things get tougher, His return is closer!

And pray for my wife, who has faithfully, but not always understandably stood by me. Good thing she trusts God more than me. So we're going riding. Not sure where, but alone together. My best friend, my co-minister, and more to me than words can say. My sweet and my love. We all should be so blessed.

224 times this year I have written via the Holy Spirit to all who read. I cannot say I love you better than to point you to Jesus via the spirit right now. With compassion that only Christ can offer. So for the 224th time, let me say I love you.

with compassion,

Mike

Happy New year

matthew 25biker.blogspot.com

speed limits, God doesn't

2011-12-21T09:29:00.000-08:00

Triumph just came out with a cool tag line for its retro ad about Bonneville, the Salt Flats, not the bike. "The finish line is wherever your speedometer maxes out." I like that, but sadly too many max out long before the speedo needle pins itself. Death we call it, and as a society we are afraid to use the word. "Arrested," the doctor told me of my friend Bill two weeks ago. The Bible mentions that we will all sleep. Passed away I often hear, or that the person has gone to a better place. Not here any more. He is resting with the angels. And I think you get my point, we are afraid of death. At least as a group. Individually some of look forward to it.

But with a certain caveat, although we are not afraid to die, we are not sure of the procedure. And maybe that is what really scares us. We all wish to die in our sleep, if for some reason we expire before the rapture occurs. But using the analogy of a speedo, how many of us use all of the numbers on it. How many although it says 120, ever hit the 100 mark in life? How many find a safe speed, and no matter the road condition maintain that speed? Just because it makes them feel safe. Like an old slot car, just staying in the groove until the power goes out. With no regard as to what it makes the other traffic feel.

The opposite is the ones who brag about pinning their speedo needle at 120 or above, and think they really went that fast. I hear guys all the time tell me about how their Kawaharleyhondumph went 150mph, and they still had plenty of throttle to go. Then I see their bike, and recognize it is federally governed to 105. And when pointing this out to them, I am amazed at how they will argue-sadly never seeing 150 in real life, only on a wildly exaggerated speedo. Which only upsets those who have been there. A legend in their own minds. Never allowing reality to taint their legacy.

Maybe that is why racers don't have speedos on their bikes, but ride by engine speed. Which can translate to road speed if needed. They ride to use all of the engine they can, with only the redline stopping them. Then upshifting and repeating the same. But even better are those who ride by sound-the engine tells them when to shift, and when it has gone far enough. And for those who have grenaded an engine, it will also advise when you have gone too far.

And on any given street, if you are really curious, open up the throttle and let her go. Sooner or later an officer of the law will be happy to comply with your wish to know your true speed, and will even document it on paper for you. Even make it public record in court for you. Just another service they provide. Is that what those little white numbers on black really mean?

Life is for living. And for all not at the max. Some are content to never know all the blessings God has for them. They never trust, never twist the throttle of life wide open, and are suspicious of those who do. They want a 150 mph God, but never get out on the freeway. They live like they ride, safe and secure in their own little world. They are noticeable by their presence in the fast lanes-holding up everyone else by their slower speeds. They have the same potential as other high performance bikes, yet never use it. They have the cc's, but not the JC's for life. Stick with something you can ride-like a moped. You are missing out on what Jesus has for you.

At the other end of the spectrum I have seen moped riders, use every last bit of their bike's potential. Never looking at the speedo-that would only ruin the illusion. They get every bit out of their ride, and if 25 feels like 100, so much the better. They get everything out of that moped they can, and more than it has to offer. They are the ones who trust God more, and who see His blessings. It is not the potential they are interested in, but what the bike will do on any given day-in any given situation.

Take a look at your odometer. How many miles have you ridden never knowing what your bike will do? And take a look at Jesus. How many years have you lived not knowing what He can do? Maybe today is the day to take both of them out for a ride. Find a stretch of road and see what the bike will really do. It may be scary, but I guarantee it will be exciting. And do the same with God. Today a situation will occur where only He can handle it. Let Him.
Watch the numbers go higher in your faith than they ever have before. Watch as the needle pins itself, and feel the presence of God. Repeat as needed. And watch as 120 feels like 60, not the other way around. It is only when your odometer quits turning that life is over. Until then, find out what life really has to offer. Ride at redline, in faith. And watch as the new normal is represented by your ever increasing faith. And ever increasing blessings.

True joy is best experienced when all its potential is used. Live life with a firm grip on the throttle, and get the most Jesus has to offer in every situation. And start enjoying the ride that Jesus promises. Wheelies optional.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

putting up with the Kardashians

2011-12-20T08:07:00.000-08:00

Robert Kardashian was a very successful music attorney, who gained notoriety by being OJ's friend. He is the man standing by OJ at the trial with the skunk stripe in his black hair. Which would have been enough to guarantee Hollywood celebrity status, but when he died from throat cancer, his name, but not his legacy has become even more popular by the horror classic, "Keeping up with the Kardashians!" In this well known real soap opera, billed as a family show, Kris, who divorced Bob, marries Bruce Jenner, who other than having bad taste in woman, divorced also after his gold medal, is still a hero to me for his decathlon victory in the Olympics. So these two divorcees, meet and have a combined total of six children. Then add two more of their own, when Mom decides to parade her princesses before the world, for a price. And the price seems to be paying off, as when channel surfing it is hard to find it not on some channel. Just not mine.

But this family show has highlighted in the past such values as divorce-see above, pre-marital sex, taped and then bootlegged for millions-how's that compare to your home movies?,children outside of marriage-why get married, we are still in that period of seeing if we're compatible, and the Princess Kim and her Princess Di-like wedding. Only to find after a few months they divorce. Was it a set-up for millions? Is he gay? Is she? Is he really an alien, or a gay alien? Who cares? Why are my little sisters such jerks? Must be in the family genes. Maybe the show should be called "Putting up with the Kardashians!" The central theme is Me First, then me, then what can you do for me? And you wonder why parents divorce? No-it is not to have their own tv show. Just to add more episodes to their series. Gotta keep the ratings up! Family TV has never sunk lower.

"Keeping up with the Davidsons" has been popular for years. Triumph has been into it, too. Market a high line of clothes, change it enough every year, and the loyal line up to buy them. From the retro-look, to women's fashions, they both have it all. Nice stuff, have a few leather jackets myself. But the Kardashian factor is out there, even if they don't ride. When looking at my Triumph leather, a woman commented on how she liked the distressed look of it. "Did it come like that?" When I explained it only took 100,000 miles of riding to get it distressed, she seemed distressed. "You wear that nice jacket riding?" To quote a Harley shirt, "if you have to ask, you wouldn't understand." Ask a Kardashian. Not Bruce, he's distressed enough already. To quote the old Barry McGuire song, maybe we are on the "eve of destruction!"

Some twenty years ago the church I was attending was in a growth mode. Setting out to prove how a building program will split the church, they told how they were following God's will, and would not borrow any money. So come across with more giving. Even had a nice banner, "Building to share, sharing to build." Trendy. And I bought into it, until while in Vegas visiting a friend he had the same propaganda on his refrigerator-seems his church was building too. And when I confronted a friend of mine on the building committee about it, he told me they had already obtained a loan, and were going ahead whether they got more giving or not. Just because they needed more classrooms. To fill with 3-4 people rather than combining the old ones. Building for those who would come to their nice new church-only they didn't come, the church split and today the once filled lot for two services is now half empty for one. If only they had asked God first....or a Kardashian!

Jesus Christ is the original reality show. He tells us to be head of the family as He is head of the church. To love our wives with respect. To not inspire our children to wrath. To love one another, forgive, and serve. Just like the Kardashians-NOT! And when He talks of church building, He means building up the flock from the inside out, because no building could ever hold the love He has for us. He is not trendy-if anything His is a trend we all need! And He has never gone out of style, and His message is free-a gift! All you need to do is accept Him-He is who He says He is.

Oh, and that distressed look. Not here. You may come to Him distressed, but you leave with a peace that surpasses understanding. The ultimate family man, He refers to us as brothers and sisters. And calls us His friend. And in His attitude, He loves you just as you are. No competition, no trying to keep up with Him-He came down from heaven for us!

If you find that you cannot keep up with the Kardashians, or afford the trendy jackets of Harley and Triumph, that your church growth program is about the building, try Jesus. That's reality. That's truth. Better than any TV show, He is the real thing. And He's not just for Christmas anymore!

Trust Him today. Your salvation will be shown on the biggest screen in heaven when you do. And while Kardashian wedding ends in ruins, and in reruns, the mercies of Jesus are new every morning. Welcome to a real family-the family of God!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

what if Joe and Mary had a reservation

2011-12-19T08:26:00.000-08:00

As agents of the devil's lies, the Jehovah Witnesses still are out there preaching their false gospel. Many nice people have bought into the lies, many unsuspectingly, and are even today out proselytizing those who do not know THE truth. Quoting their misinterpreted Bible, the New World Translation. Avoid it. And many well meaning Christians, when they encounter them, argue and debate with them in contradiction to what 2 John tells us to do with them. Were you argued into heaven, or was it by the Holy Spirit? Don't you know that all you have to do is compete in an argument and they have won? So when the latest pair-even sent out in pairs like the disciples, showed up in my driveway Saturday, I cut them off immediately. I am nice and kind to them, fruits of the spirit that should be in us, but address them simply with one basic question-Is Jesus Christ deity? Is He God like the Bible says? These two young men emphatically said no, then tried to explain-I cut them off. I will not listen to their lies. To their deception. do not give the devil a foothold. I told them by denying Jesus as God, they were going to hell-and it was their choice. Jesus died so they didn't have to, and God loves them-the reason Jesus came in the first place! To seek and save those that are lost! I assured them that I loved and cared for them too, and it makes me sad when someone believes a lie and chooses it over the truth. For I wish no one to go to hell. As I wished them both Merry Christmas, and we shook hands, the older one turned to me and said, "you know he wasn't even born on December 25th." As if that statement would absolve him from any sin. But my answer, a factual statement, could still be seen on their faces as they looked back.

Funny we know Lincoln's Gettysburg address, the address of Santa is the North Pole, but we know very little about where Jesus was born. In a stable, laid in a feeding trough, wrapped in burial clothes. The Bible never mentions the date of Jesus birth. We choose to celebrate it when we do. No one is exactly sure of the date, but it can be tied down pretty close to another season. So I asked these two who advertise themselves as studiers of God's word, "how can you base something of God based on something of man? Are you willing to bet your eternal destiny on a date chosen by man, rather than the facts provided by God?" I don't know if anyone had asked them that before. Read THE Bible, I advised, and ask God to show you the truth via His spirit. I know that will stick with them-and I pray the Holy Spirit is talking to them right now. The shocked look on their faces-almost that of fear, tells me that the Spirit is already at work. No coincidence they showed up that Saturday morning in my driveway.

The truth is we are all going to hell. It is the good news, aka the gospel, that you don't have to. It is your choice. Jesus gives you the only way out. Admit you are a sinner, repent, believe with your heart, and confess with your mouth Jesus as savior, and you are saved. No courses, tests, memberships, book tours, or pay per view event-trust God. Have you ever prayed that prayer?

I find it interesting little information is given about Jesus' birth in the Bible. It is only when studied, the truth is revealed by God to us. He kept it simple, like the gospel, for we get easily confused. We get more swept up in the event rather than the person. And it is all about Jesus. We know Jesus was born in Bethlehem, but not the name of the inn. Was it a chain, or mom and pop motel? Was there a bellhop? Never mentioned either. Valet parking? What was the innkeepers name? Were they admitted by some student going to college? Who happened to be working Christmas-and he just didn't know it. Did they have a reservation? Did they get a AAA rate? Did they have to show ID? Were they offered a complimentary cup of coffee? Did they visit the gift shop? Imagine what those postcards would be worth today. The animals are not identified in the stable, and who were the wise men? Who knows how many there were, the song incorrectly names three, the Bible never says. So much to know, but so little told. And so much incorrectly assumed. Maybe the lack of information helps us keep Jesus the main thing. And keeps us seeking. As it should. I could easily see a chain of motels named after the inn in question. I have stayed at Route 66 motels that aren't even on Route 66. Some you couldn't even see the famous road from. "Stay where Jesus was born-a nationwide chain." Neglecting the one who was born that night. Maybe even have a special "Savior's Birth Room," at a premium price. Animals extra. Make it the special "birth package." comes with a free continental style breakfast. Bet that would be booked on His birthday. And not being sure of the date would allow premium rates on other days. Maybe Christmas week, or month or ... all at a premium rate. All the hoopla, but never knowing the truth. "I slept where Jesus was born," would show up on t-shirts, bumper stickers, and hats. Just like many have slept in old inns back east, where George Washington was supposed to have slept. And in Memphis where they have a king, and a shrine called Graceland. "Thank you, thank you very much."As for me, I rather rest in His eternal arms. Although I have slept in places named after George. Let's stop and thank God right now that He protected His son from all that. That's love.

Christians need to remind a dying world that it is THE TRUTH that sets you free-not some religious lies by some well meaning employee of the Watchtower Bible and Tract Society. There is no salvation in their lies. Love them, but don't engage them. Obey the scripture, just love them. Their knowledge is based on lies, and no matter how any times repeated it doesn't convert into the truth.

So as we celebrate Jesus' birth on December 25th, seek Him as the wise men did. Ask Him for the gift He offers 365 days a year, His love via eternal life. Trust Him and Him only. The liars and deceivers are out there, lying in wait as vicious wolves to keep you from heaven. Avoid the lies, seek truth. Don't let them take away who we celebrate.

I will pray for these two young men, for their salvation. They are the reason Jesus died. There is only one question I wish I had asked them. In the song Silent Night, three people are mentioned in one verse. "Round yon virgin, mother, and child." Three people. I wonder if these two know what a round yon virgin is? Or who she was? Do you?

More importantly do you know Jesus? Might just change the whole way you celebrate Christmas. Merry Christmas Jesus! Happy Birthday, too!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

checking God's list twice

2011-12-16T07:52:00.000-08:00

Like so many of you, Christmas will be different this year due to the financial impact. Fact is there just is no money to buy gifts. And for those of us who love to give, it hurts. It hurts me to think that a family tradition over many years of being Christmas to a family in need has come to an end. It hurts to think I cannot go shopping for my wife and kids like I want to. It hurts to be dependent on others, but I am learning I rather be humbled than humiliated. So when showering, God and I talked. My other time with God with no interference is 3am. I called out to Him and asked Him for blessings, my mind reduced to the financial kind. Seems my good looks just don't pay the rent. And God answered, as He so often does with that still, small voice. Not a rebuke-that wasn't needed, for I wasn't crying out for me. His answer was a gentle reminder of ALL the blessings He has given me throughout the last year.

"What about last night?" He said, reminding me of Lights For Laiken. What about the Toy Run to Children's Hospital?" And that was all it took to shake my heart back to realization. For God has tremendously blessed me this year-as He has every year since I was saved. Which caused my heart to praise Him, and the thanks I gave Him turned to worship. What a blessing! Just a few things I have to be thankful for this year. Blessings, God calls them...and when we look at them through God's eyes we see more clearly.

Our change to Maranatha Chapel has changed our lives. I have learned more in a year than I did the past 5! I love going to church again. Meeting new men, being on the discipline team, and being taught by Ray, and becoming his friend-what a joy. But I have learned to worship, and John Wickham was one I counseled with before we changed. My obedience to listen to God was the difference. Truly obedience is better than sacrifice.

Lynsay and Gavin have changed my outlook on miracles. A young couple, after a single bike accident Gavin was given 5% chance of survival, the best she was told was he would be a vegetable. Today he stands, walks a little, is using his right hand-the doctor said he never would, and they are expecting in July! And they are saved, and ministering to others!

Andrew and I got to assist victims in Joplin after the tornado. A heart wrenching, and heart breaking experience, it changed our lives. To be one of the 100,000 who got a hand written card from the city of thanks, we thank them. Again, we went to bless, and left the receiver of many blessings.

I just took back my 22nd new Triumph this year, and met Greg, the new CEO of Triumph. My passion is motorcycles, and God fulfills it like I could never imagine. Maybe we can go riding next year-28 new bikes arriving in January. And speaking of rides, we rode 8800 miles, spent some great time with my parents, and visited with Mary FNY last summer. 21 states later, we pray that next year we can again.

My heart is touched by the letters I get from the inmates who get my devotions. Thanks to them, the gospel goes forth currently in eight prisons, from county jails in San Diego to Death Row in Chowchilla. From Kerry Lyn's salvation, to those she sends them to or shares with other, like all the men and women a big thanks for taking the gospel to a dark and dying world. God knows, and will not forget. Like Dooley, special to me. And to you others-be blessed this Christmas. You are never far from my thoughts of you and always in prayer. And a special appreciation to Zmicer and the boys in Minsk-they translate my devotions to Russian, then minister to street kids using them and motorcycles. Only God...

I was blessed to do my friend Lee's funeral this year. And to lead the attendees-no mourners here, in Amazing Grace, sung to the tune of America the Beautiful. A stretch for me, singing to a crowd, and when we belted out "God shed His grace on Lee," no truer words were heard that day. And we gave life to a place of death-only God could do that. I am thankful I had the courage to listen to Him.

My friend Fr. Al continues to amaze me. Healed miraculously of cancer THREE times this past year, he still continues on with the vision God has given him for the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel. He doesn't even know how many lives he has touched. His letters of encouragement point me to Jesus, and my most valuable friend who doesn't ride helps keep me riding. A very special thanks to him-only in heaven will he ever know how much effect he has had on this world. I am glad he is part of mine.

It has been a tough year for losing friends. From Lee to Mena, to Tammi and Don, to Alex and Bill, over a dozen of my friends went to heaven this year. Making this a lonelier place sometimes, but making the party in heaven more exciting. Through the Holy spirit using the ministry God has given me, I have been part of changing the population in heaven. Only Jesus!

This list can go on, from Conrad, to Bill, so many prayed for and healed in my hospital visits. To Bikerjim and his friendship, and his determination to trust God, I am blessed. I have learned to look to the cross in tough situations, not at the situation. God has everything under control, always has, always will. Can't explain it, don't understand it-just glad He does.

A special thanks to both my parents who still are there for me. Those special gifts always seem to come at the right time-and are so appreciated. Only God knows how much-all we can say is thanks!

I am most thankful for my best friend, ministry partner, pillion sitter, and co-rider, and riding partner Theresa, aka my wife. When asked which club I ride with, I answered my wife. How many of you can say that? I will gladly boast of it! God continues to bless us despite ourselves, and this will be our 35th Christmas together. Not bad for a couple who never dated and started out the night they met going for a ride. Without helmets. On a BMW! I couldn't do what God asks me to do without her.

But most of all-it is still all about Jesus. If your life isn't, it is not too late to give it all over to Him. Don't look at no money, foreclosures, cancer, death, or any other situation. They will consume you. Look to the cross. The empty cross. Then the empty tomb. And know that soon we will be with Him. He is risen! Until that day, He will take care of His own. An example that brings me great joy to tell people. No whining, no complaining. Like Job, just when we think we have God figured out, He allows something to happen so we don't. Let nothing get between you and God. Not religion, church politics, tradition, or families. It is all about Jesus!

I got everything on my Christmas list this year-and much more than I asked for. A Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good ride.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

how far is 8800 miles really?

2011-12-15T07:59:00.000-08:00

The Apostle Paul states that he has become all things to all men so that the gospel of Jesus Christ shall go forth. Good advice, and advice that should be taken in our daily relationships with all. In other words, know your audience. And at this time of year, when I attend parties and functions where we only meet once a year, an economy of words can make the time spent together more valuable. An analogy that Ken reminded me of the other day was how can I pack so light for a trip? My response was how can you take so many things you will never use? So I find the same dilemma when talking to others.

When asked about our trip this year, I tell them 8800 miles. But not to all, for if you never have exceeded the county line, you have no idea what 8800 mile is all about. Or how little it is over 30 days. Less than 300 miles per day-do the math, and in an 8 hour day of riding that is less than 40 mph. When put in those terms, I travel more miles, see more things, and go faster than they do on their commute. Now, how far is 8800 miles really?

We were in 21 states. True, in the west you have larger states to deal with, but riding a 300 mile day in New England can take you through six states, while heading north from LA only takes you to Monterrey. Suddenly, 21 states is no big deal. 30 days? How can you spend 30 days on the road? How can you not? So many roads, so many great places to eat, so much history, so much beauty, and so much time to spend with my wife while riding. A key ingredient-for if you don't ride with a best friend, one who rides like you do, 30 miles can seem like 30 days. So I advise ride your own ride. Don't try to keep up. I won't. And remember that 300 miles per day is still done one mile at a time. Or for you faster guys, a 1/4 mile at a time!

Theresa took over 6000 pictures this time. Now based on days, that figures to 200 pictures per day. I love reviewing them with her at the end of the day, and asking "where did you take that one?" for her view from the back is more encompassing than mine, and on the same trip, on the same route, she may have a much different outlook and adventure. Same bike, same roads, same stats, yet her view of the trip may differ than mine. Not better or worse, just different. It's that personal.

That is why the Holy Spirit is so important in our lives. And why a personal relationship with Jesus beats anything religion has to offer. True, Jesus tells us He is the way, but listen to each of our testimonies, they are all different, and unique to us. But we all end up with Jesus as the destination. So let the spirit guide your words when sharing, or even just visiting. Reach out to the person, like Christ did and does to you. Jesus came down to our level, we didn't have to meet certain criteria to be accepted. Anyone who tells you different is of a different gospel-not of the Lord's. And when two Christians get together and share, we are blessed to see a different view of Christ. An infinite, all knowing, ever present, all loving God knows that, and with that much to offer, makes it available to all. Because we are all created as individuals, right down to our fingerprints. Different, but the same. The same, but unique to God and how He made us. A way in that He can brag about all His glory, in all His people. It's that personal.

Today let God allow you to be the person He wants you to be. And don't harness Him from making you all you can be. If you ride 300, try 500. 21 states? We have 50! 30 days? Did you realize riding every weekend is 104 days-over 3 months? It's just how you plan it. You have every day to explore the things God has for you. It is only your decision to limit them. And to limit sharing them with others. Spend time with the infinite God who created the universe. For OUR pleasure. Let Him show it off, and enjoy time with Him. Theresa may have taken 6000 pictures, which seems like a lot, God has no end to the sights and sounds He has to show you.

Maybe Ken didn't pack too much, his trip was just too short. And when eternity is involved, our days do seem shorter. Make the best of each one. And share them with others. And let them share with you. Someone cared enough about you to tell you about Jesus. Keep it going. There may be someone at that restaurant who just needs a little love. Someone to listen. Who has questions about where they are going, and needs direction. His map may not include Jesus. Paul was all things to all men, so can you. Add travel advisor to your resume, and tell them about your trip-your testimony. They may just be looking for a good reason to ride a 300 mile day, and just looking for the person to ride it with.

Or if you are that person, find one of us and ask. Jesus Christ-more than a vacation that will come to an end. He is eternity, with roads that don't appear on any map. He has to show you where they are. But you need to know Him first. Now, isn't that worth inviting Him along and into your life? I don't know about you, but I have a lot of catching up to do. It's that personal. Let's ride!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the light in Laiken

2011-12-14T07:47:00.000-08:00

We were blessed to be part of a toy run for Children's Hospital last week. Almost 200 bikes rode to Wal Mart, then to the hospital and handed out toys. Once again in the minority-Theresa and I the only Triumphs, and Theresa and Edal the only solo women riders, we were and are welcomed by the HOG Chapters despite our refusal to worship at the Bar and Shield. But while the bikes took up most of the driveway, and the bikers stood in a group, I walked over and started talking to the kids and their parents. I had come to minister more than a toy, I just hadn't realized it. The kids were excited, and from age 15 to 1 year, were out to get a gift. Talking with a 15 year old girl, from above Reno with her mom, her heart condition kept her hospitalized. We joked, and when I told her don't break too many boys hearts when she got out, both of them smiled and laughed. And blushed. She had broken mine. I joked with two girls in wheelchairs, who showed me the "free gift sheet." And weren't sure when I explained you had to compete in a 50 yard dash to get a toy. But seeing my smile, they caught on and we all laughed. Then the aunts and mothers joined in, and soon a wheelchair race was planned. After the toys, of course.

I watched as Theresa walked a lady and her young daughter back to her room. She had gotten the Barbie she wanted. Pushing the stand with the meds attached, a simple act was so welcome to this mom. How blessed Theresa got to pray with her, too. I also helped another mom do the same thing, when her 1 year old was scared and she was trying to push the unbalanced cart across the sidewalk. The crowd scared her, but when I told her "come on, follow me," she did, and the hug at the end said more than any thanks could have. We were out in the crowd, to us where the action really was, and is. And I believe where God wants us to be.

Jesus taught in the temple, but ministered out on the streets. Where the people were, with their problems. He went to them, and whether on 200 bikes, or one on one, He was found among them. And that is where we should be found, too. Out among the people!

Last night was the annual Lights for Laiken. A celebration of the life of the daughter of my heart whom I never had, and the "big sister of Abigail." As always Stacy went over the top and from the fire engine, the police car, the LA-NBC news truck, to cookies, hot chocolate, and the crowded street, we all had fun. Santa was there, and watching the kids get excited was fun. Even more so when the kids whose dad was playing Santa didn't recognize him, and one was scared and wouldn't go sit on his lap. HO-HO-HO to that one! Jim handled the lights this year and did a great job. And we all left wishing each other a Merry Christmas. A crowd that I am blessed to be a part of, and of who I am making many friends. All because of a little girl, who is in heaven, celebrating Christmas everyday.

My night was really touched when we walked in, and Abby saw me and reached out for a hug. While sitting under a picture of her big sister. While I shed tears of joy with a big smile, I know she didn't understand why. Laiken was and is that special to me. And I hope Abby will be too. You see you will be part of many activities in your life, but some make it special. Some make the 200 mile round trip on a week night worth it. Some make you look forward to it, for you know what is at the destination. You want to share in the love, and be part of it. And that is Laiken. And why she still inspires me to get out into the crowds of kids like on the toy run. In my file of 35mm memories, and last night I ran through them all, a Christmas card to myself from Laiken, and wished myself a Merry Christmas.

Today why not make the love that Jesus has for you personal. Make it intimate. Show love to someone. No preaching, and if needed use words. Many hugs last night reminded me of the Love for Laiken shirts and signs. Jesus made it personal for her. That would be her wish for you. One last moment of mine with Laiken-

I showed up on a Sunday at Children's Hospital of LA, and Jim took a break. Laiken waved me in, and I went into her clean area. Here we are bouncing on her bed, and joking like two kids, when Nurse Judy walks in. Whose take was a bit different. She had a fit because I am not supposed to be in this clean area! Which Laiken knew. I guess leather and denim after a 125 mile bike ride aren't as sanitary as I thought. And as I am being asked to leave, with a "c'mon" tug on my sleeve, while being reminded to never enter here again, Laiken is laughing and bouncing on the bed even more. She got me! Or was it Judy? Or both? And when I was out in the non-clean area, we all laughed. A bit of joy, from a little 12 year old girl, with cancer and with tubes attached to her. Isolated from the world, but not from the joy of Jesus-who never left her. And couldn't be isolated from others. With a spirit of life and joy I long for sometimes. But I was ready for her the next time, as she once again invited me in on my next visit. Hmm, no Judy, maybe...what is the old saying, first time your fault, second time mine?

It was the joy of Jesus that made Laiken who she was. I hope you know that joy too. If not, please accept this invitation to personally know Him as His gift this Christmas. Tell Him that Laiken sent you. If you do, someday you will see Laiken and me in heaven. We'll be in the children's section. Jumping for joy on the beds, and celebrating Jesus.

In the light of the Lord. Until then let the light of Jesus shine through you. As it does to us through Laiken. On a Tuesday night for all to see. Merry Christmas, see you soon little lady,

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Alex is home at last

2011-12-13T07:22:00.000-08:00

I first met Barney Li when working for Mercedes Benz. He previously had sold his company, Eagle One Products and was enjoying life. He and his wife were busy raising his family, he was taking more time to ride, and working on resurrecting the Vincent motorcycle. But his passion was motorcycles, and this was our common bond. Although he had a distrust of the automotive industry, many sins of mine for being involved in it were forgiven because I rode. And we loved to bench race. More than once he would call saying he was coming by, his CL500 was acting up again, only to spend 45 minutes telling me of his recent ride, and then saying he would deal with the car later. And although we both rode the US extensively, Barney saw America through a different set of eyes than I did, and do.

Barney's riding partners were fellow entrepreneurs and millionaires. He rode with Kyle Petty, Peter Fonda, and had spent a weekend riding at Kenny Roberts' ranch. He was used to going first class, and preferred Yamahas, he had once had a Yamaha franchise. So as where some of my friends would camp after a long day's ride, and I would be negotiating the last $5 off my room rate, he and his friends would be waiting for the support vehicle to show up with all their stuff, so they could go out to dinner,, and then back to their 5 star hotel. Different levels of living, but one level of road. Motorcycles being the common denominator. For money hadn't made him a motorcyclist, it just gave him more time and a higher level of doing it. Sadly he also died while doing what he loved best, in a single bike crash in Arizona on a road I had travelled just after his death, not knowing at the time he had died there.

You might say I was the different one in his riding circle. When I moved over to Land Rover, and his wife came in, she immediately called him. "Mike is at Land Rover, come on over." Which he did, with his newest custom bike in his truck. A Yamaha of course. And there went most of the morning-but that was Barney, and that was us. So when Elizabeth called to tell me of the accident, I was saddened. A friend had died, doing what he loved. With his friends. A sad end you might think, but how many would like to end life doing what they love? So I miss Barney and his stories. We went so many places together, but not with each other. We saw so much of America, but from a different perspective. My only regrets are we never rode together. Although we talked of it, the fact we didn't made the relationship even more special. And I wish I had taken advantage of the open invitation to see his motorcycle collection. I had an open invitation, but my old chapter, somehow they weren't interested. Their loss. With Barney, our common bond was be motorcycling-not a brand. We rode alone, but somehow together.

Yesterday my friend Alex went home to heaven. Age 93, he is now listed in the book of life in eternity. I knew him through our seniors Bible study, and even at this age, he was bright and alert. And active. And loved to talk of the common love we shared-Jesus Christ. "Mike, I just want to go see my Jesus," he would always say. He wanted to go to heaven so much, for he knew he would be with Jesus. And because Jesus was the center of his life, everything in his life was based on it. And the love of God showed through him.

I visited him in the hospital and nursing home almost everyday the last few weeks of his life. I would read his devotional, then we would pray, and sing. His last mini stroke took his voice and ability to swallow, but he showed more love with his smile than many do with words. I got to meet and pray with his kids, and what an honor it was to see them loving on him. What a legacy. But one last precious moment God gave us was giving him water on his parched throat and lips. Swabbing them gently, he could only have thick liquids, I tenderly gave him water. While I watched his dry absorb the water, he glowed at the humility of the moment. God reminding us of the living water that only He can provide. Only a loving God could show that. A personal and intimate moment with God. And I am thankful. That is how I will remember Alex.

So when I saw his bed empty yesterday, and the nurse said he wasn't there, I knew. "He's in heaven, isn't he?" I said. She smiled and nodded yes. The one thing Alex lived for was finally his. And I started to laugh between tears for my friend.

Do you have the same joy as Alex? Do you wish the things of heaven? It takes Jesus, the only way. Ask Him into your heart today. Be assured that His promises are faithful. And let me know so we can rejoice with the angels in heaven.

Soon, and very soon, we are going to meet the king. Heaven awaits, but we start the celebration today. Alex is home at last.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

just in time for Christmas-or any other day

2011-12-12T07:58:00.000-08:00

When I was a kid, we were always impressed by how much things cost. And the higher the price, meant the cooler, or more impressive the deal or product. "Did you see Joey's new 10-speed he got for Christmas? His dad paid $55 for it! WOW!!" And suddenly my $39 Schwinn Typhoon was relegated to a lesser grade, or status. But not to my Dad who had just paid the $39. So when the time came for me to buy my first motorcycle, the rules had changed. Now it was, if I paid less for the same thing, I got the deal. "Did I tell you I only paid $825 for my CB350? Out the door!" And suddenly I was the winner due to the discounted price I paid. But the main difference was it was MY money now, so I had to shop around. And still do today, like so many others. We are always looking for the best deal, and then bragging about how "we" got it, as if we are the smartest negotiators west of the Rockies when it comes to buying a Happy Meal. Somehow those large fries for no extra cost taste better. "What's my price has gone from a joke, to really asking-"what is my price?" Supersized or not.

Having spent most of my careers in the automotive field, the first real eye opener was when I learned about the "bump book." Cleverly marketed and then utilized by the auto and cycle industries, it takes the parts, bumps up the prices above suggested retail, and the dealerships make more money, profit they call it. And when pressed, will give a discount, sometimes all the way down to suggested retail, with you never knowing what the real retail price ever was. And thinking you were getting a deal. Another thing I learned from selling cars, was the more you discounted the car, the more the customer thought you were ripping him off. And we all had a wise guy friend who after hearing what you paid told you he could have got you a better deal. Remember the days of throwing in a radio, or free floor mats? And you were left feeling like you were ripped off. You were stuck on the price, and not enjoying the moment of the new car. Thanks friend.

But the converse, which I offer no explanation for, is those that paid way too much. Who got no discounts, and actually liked their purchase. They got the car they wanted. They would tell all their friends, and would stop by with gifts, and to thank us for selling them their car. Maybe they are the ones who really got the best deal, for they didn't care so much about the price of the car as they did the enjoyment of having it. And realized that some things cost what they cost. Of course the exception to the rule was the guy with so much money he didn't care. Know anyone like that? So I have always tried to live my life based on a simple premise-a good deal is where both parties benefit. And over the years have paid too much, both when discounted, and when not discounted. I also learned that when you get a customer for price only, you lose him for the same reason. Someone will always go lower-just to make a sale. And I hear many times this Christmas season, do what it takes to make the sale. No reasonable offer refused. Still not sure what reasonable is, but have met many who aren't. So what I fall back on to be true is-whatever you paid for it is what it is worth. Stop whining, start enjoying, and let the ride begin.

Man had a similar problem with God. We sinned, and then started looking for the cheapest, or easiest way back. Sacrifices couldn't cut it, religion only added the burden of penance or some other self imposed, self righteous sacrifice, and so man walked further away from God. Laws and legalism. No way we could measure up. It was going to take a man who walked, talked, lived, and breathed among us to make up the gap. To pay the price. To make the sacrifice for all-and do it so simply that anyone could get it, and do it. And you think you've had a tough day at work? No one but Jesus could answer the ad for that job.

So God, who created us in His image, sent Himself, His son in the form of a man, to save us. A perfect savior, to take the pain and sin away, and reunite us with God. Simple, to the point, and incredibly done in love. No other way would cut it. A high price, with no discount. But also no bump book. No club prices, or good guy deals. No extended payments, and no Black Friday specials. No friend who would get you a deal. The price was high, but so was the product-us. Think about that next time you consider Jesus. The high price He paid was for us! Way too high if you consider what and who we are, and way too low when you consider what He got in return. But to God, the best deal He would ever make, and truly fit the definition of a good deal-both parties, God and us, benefitted! For love was the influencing factor-and how can you put a price on God's love? We could never afford it, so He had to make it free. No other way would work. It had to be Jesus.

"Buy for love, and sell for money" I have told many a bike trader. But always be fair. Like God is to us. Jesus Christ is the best deal you can ever make. He paid the price, and you get all the benefits. And eternal life starts now with Him, before you die! A covenant, with no expiration date, as opposed to a contract that specifies one. It is called the New Testament. I suggest reading it, and often, just to remind yourself of what a great deal you have. And to share it with others. Be the friend who tells them about the best deal they will ever get, and money never comes up. I may still look for a cheaper price on bike parts, but I will never scrimp when it comes to Jesus. For no matter the cost, I could never afford the price He paid. The first and original Christmas deal.

Makes me wonder what that old Schwinn is worth today. Sometimes you don't pay too much, you just pay too soon. Jesus is what it took to make the deal. A perfect deal at a perfect time. Merry Christmas!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

things that make us purr

2011-12-09T07:43:00.000-08:00

I heard a cat's purring described once as whatever is going on right now I don't want it to stop. Every morning as I sit down to write, Mr. Man, Andrew's cat, comes and sits on my lap. As I rub his chin, and his eyes roll back in his head, the motor starts running, the feet start pumping, and he sits here in bliss-until he almost falls off. Purring at full throttle! This will go on for a few minutes, then just as suddenly he will jump off and run. His whatever is happening right now purr is fulfilled, and it is off to other activities such as food, and then going out to check on the night's events. But the purring sometimes is so loud you wonder if anyone can be that satisfied. And he is only a cat. I wonder about myself sometimes, and what makes me purr. Do other people here it? Can I hear them purring? So here are some things that at least get my motor running-purring as the purist would say.

I am blessed to ride bikes for Triumph's press fleet. I picked up my 22nd new bike this year, a Tiger 800 XC. For the 22nd time this year, I will ride a bike with zero miles, and take it back to get another. New bikes. And for me the excitement of riding a new bike out of the shop is still as much fun as the first one was years ago. Spoiled and blessed by God, who knows my passion my motorcycles, and gives me more than I could have ever thought to ask for. You're right-it isn't fair. But God's love is, take it up with Him.

Travelling with my wife makes both of us purr. Riding and touring is fun and in our blood, but it is not complete unless you ride with your best friend. God knows this and has given me Theresa. For 30 days this year, 8800 miles, and 21 states, and over 6000 pictures she has taken, we purred along through high heat, wind, and rain. Together. And even without the ride, just having her as my wife causes me to purr. Again, more than I could ever ask for or imagine God has given. I hope you can make your wife purr, too.

Both my sons cause me to purr, more than they would imagine. For it is not in their accomplishments I purr. Or in their times of joy. It is in the times that I remember they are my sons, and no matter what trouble they may be in-I love them, and I am proud of them. Years ago when Andrew was in trouble, a well meaning but off base man asked me if I wanted to strangle him for the trouble he was in. NO-I wanted to hug him and let him know how much I loved him. Love isn't based on situations, but relationships. Mine is based on Jesus, how could I help but love the sons He has given me. That noise you hear now is a gentle purr when I remember it. And we can all use more hugs from Jesus than rules from religion.

I start to purr when I think of the church God has let us be part of. We have grown so much this year, and in ways I can't imagine. There is nothing that can replace Jesus in your heart-even in tough times this year, I still purr when I think of Him.

My friend Alex, 93 going on eternity makes me purr. He just wants to be with Jesus. And as I visited him his lips were dry, and I swabbed them with water, giving him a little on his tongue, as he can't swallow. The joy on his face was like a loud purr-and I was reminded of the living water Jesus offers. His firm grip on my hand said thanks no words could offer. How I wish to drink that water, to have it in person, just like Alex will soon. Such a simple thing as water to his lips reminded me of that. It was much more to Alex.

Stu makes me purr as we ride together. He also makes Clemenza bark when she hears his Wing pull up. Purring to her. I don't have many friends, so having one who loves the Lord, and rides is a blessing. We all should be so blessed.

My friend Dooley blesses me from jail. Serving job under circumstances I could never survive in, his letters make me purr. Touching the heart of a fellow prisoners speaks highly of Jesus ministering to those imprisoned-without hope. And if this encourages a guard who reads this, come to Jesus. Let's purr together.

A loud purr for all of those who serve God. For our pastors who have given up so much, and get so little back. To those I ride with, my purr is louder than your exhaust! To those I minister with, what a blessing to purr with you. As times get shorter, there is much to do. Incredibly God has called us to be part of it. That should make us purr., I am sure it does Him.

God has blessed me with great parents. As they get older, it is tougher raising them, and I fall back on a statement my father once told me. "You will always be my son, and I will always be your father." How many of us can rest in that? But it is my mother who makes me purr even more.

I guess it is the things closest to my heart that makes me purr. Not so much based on situations, but based on Jesus in my life. He makes me the person I am, and has shown me so much love and mercy, that I don't know how we could ever make it without His grace. So I will go on being thankful for it.

Although the calendar says 16 days until Christmas-15 more for those with money, let this be my Christmas card to you. Remember the babe in a a manger, sent from a loving God. Pure, holy, meek and mild. God's pure light! What a proud papa He must have been that night! All heaven rejoiced-an eternal purr based on love. Just like when we come to Christ ourselves-being Born Again. That should make us purr today. His eternal love. So wherever you are, take the time to wish someone a Merry Christmas. Open you house, your purse, and your heart. Be part of the celebration that God shared that night. Joy to the world! A savior is born! And don't stop after Christmas. Rejoice in Him every day! Soon and very soon we will be going to see the king! Longing to hear the words "well done my good and faithful servant."

Let the purring begin!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

life in death

2011-12-08T07:24:00.000-08:00

You don't have to go very far anymore to have someone tell you how to live your life. From Oprah, to Gandhi, to Sesame Street, to various blogs, to the rude woman in front of you at the grocery store on her cell reading the National Inquirer, everyone has advice on how you should handle your own life. Problem is, so many times this is all based on theory, and incorrectly passed down from someone who previously may have been guessing also. "I hear this works," is often heard from them. Fortunately never tried. We are all guilty of it, and when you find a system that works, how refreshing it can be. But does it work 100% of the time for 100% of the people?

When Stu was on his 3 1/2 month odyssey, we kept in touch. I was able to send him on some awesome roads, and he took the time to explore and expand them even more. I had been there, so I wasn't basing it upon glossy pictures from the chamber of commerce, or someone else's favorite road article. And since we both like the same type of roads, I knew my advice would be sound. And it was, and when he returned we had more fun comparing trip notes. It is always more fun when you share with someone who has been there. Who has seen the scenery, eaten the food, smelled the forests, and ridden the road. But so often we settle for second best-opinions.

"Have you ridden 55 in West Virginia?" "No, but I 've ridden the interstate by it." "Have you taken old 219 or the new by pass?" "I didn't know there was a difference" tells me you took the wrong one. And this is just roads to travel. How about food, places to stay, places to visit? How about which bike shops to stop at? And when in doubt, stick with national chains, familiar names-just to be safe. Web sites like Tripadvisor.com only reflect input from people who have been there. It tells highs-"I loved it," or lows, "the clerk was rude to me." Only from extreme experiences do they offer an opinion. Which makes it sometimes hard to make a decision based on the input. It takes a person who has been there-or better yet lived or lives there. Who is more than a fellow traveler like us to give us correct insight. Opinions may be like Hondas, as the old saying goes, I have been let down by both.

So when it comes to questions of how to live your life, who do you trust? Do you trust truths, or do you seek THE truth? There is a difference. And life can be too short to keep opening doors and finding the tiger instead of the lady. You need someone who was there, is there, and will be there in the future. Who tells the truth-and that man is Jesus.

Who not only can advise on life, but has the ability to bring death to life. No one else can. You see, He was there at the beginning. He was resurrected, leaving behind an empty tomb. And He continues to sit at the right hand of God today-and forever. So ask a native resident of heaven about how to get there. It is only through Jesus you will escape hell.

Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, or mind imagined the things of heaven. No one can be creative enough to define perfection except for one who is. And no one is good enough to make it on their own merits. Did you ever get an 89 on a test-a B+, almost an A but not quite. Be glad God doesn't mark us on what we do. And we could never be so good as to attain the grade it takes to get into heaven, so Jesus took the test for us-and passed-100%! Can your religious beliefs guarantee the same?

So look to the one who is trustworthy. And trust Him. Trust God! Life is temporary, afterlife is eternal. Where you spend it is your choice. Choose Jesus. Let Him guide you to heaven. And bless you along way while still here on earth. Many roads promise you the way, only Jesus is THE way. Many roads, with only one destination. One set of directions.

So trust God to give you life in death. And also life in life. Abundantly, He says. And He gives, not charges for it. Need a Bible, I can get you one for free. Try that one at Barnes and Noble! Jesus-a gift from God to a lost world. Who could never place a value on Him, so He offers Him to us free. And offers us eternity-the best value ever!

Heaven-learn from someone who lives there. Now you were saying...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the road you're on

2011-12-07T07:57:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure why, but I have always been a light packer. When I moved west from Jersey in 1975, I was on my R90S, and moved to Albuquerque with only a tank bag. Which was still a novelty at the time. Very European. For most still tied their old Boy Scout knapsack on the back, and that was how we toured. Panniers-baggers as we call them today, were a rare sight, but then so were touring riders like myself. Our brotherhood was small, but close, and we would compare notes about food, roads, and places to see and stay when we would meet on the road. Where we were from never seemed to be as important as where we were going. How far or how long was not important-the road was the destination. And the excitement of the unknown was ever present. Which to me only made it more inviting.

Until I had left home, my longest trip had been to Florida on I-95, not exactly the way to see the world. Unless you were a snowbird escaping NY City's lovely winters for the curse of sunshine and warmth. But it was heading west from Gainesville that I started on roads that I had no idea where they would lead, and started a true adventure that today still takes place in my heart. Riding into the sunset, then some more. And I still take the long way home rather than the shortest. I still ride the back roads whenever I can instead of the freeways. I still eat at Mom's, and prefer small towns. I still stop for other bikers along the road, and I still visit shops along the way. I have made more friends over a Coke in 5 minutes just because I took the time to stop-and visit. There is a certain code of the road, not written, and not expressible. But when two riders meet we don't have to explain it. Better than words, it is in the heart. And 40 years ago I never thought I would be still doing it today.

Travel planning has changed. Today with the internet, the Travel Channel, and various touring magazines, so many trips can be planned from the comfort of your home on a cold winter day. With anything from motel reviews, to favorite road articles, to food reviews-a lot of the unknown has become known. Gladly you still have to get out and experience it. You still have to go to Primonti's-the old one in the Strip District, to eat one of their unique sandwiches. You still need to go to eastern Tennessee to ride the Snake. Pictures cannot describe how desolate the Upper Peninsula is in September. Or how crowded the beach in Daytona is in March. You cannot smell the BBQ at the Golden Rule in Birmingham, or talk to the pit crew there from the internet. And you cannot experience the freedom, adventure, and brotherhood of motorcycling if you don't get out of your chair, onto your bike, and onto the road. Weekends may serve to fill a short term need, like a fast food burger when nothing else is around, but to satisfy the real biker in you, you must take to the road. And although I have ridden many places with friends, it is the solo trips I make, with Theresa that are the most memorable. It's that personal.

Being a Christian is like that too. Exciting every day, even on local roads. But the desire of more, to know Jesus even more is the motivating force in my life. Being led by the Holy Spirit into situations I never knew existed, has been a blessing I cannot get enough of. Seeing lives changed, families healed, and fellowshipping with other Christians has given my life a new value-and one worth living. Knowing Jesus is like riding on a new road for the first time, and getting excited the farther you go. Not knowing what is around the next curve. It is better than reading about life, it is life! It is riding the old road into the New River Gorge, rather than the new bridge over it, and seeing all the green after a rain. Riding faster than you should down PA 32 into New Hope, enjoying all the curves and dips as it follows the Delaware. It is approaching Mt. Rushmore, with more of the faces visible after each turn. It is Skyline Drive on a cool morning, and a hot afternoon in the valley below. It is the beginning of a trip, when you still haven't counted the days left, because you have so much in front of you. It is life, and is exciting because Jesus makes it that way. And after 36 years of riding with Him, I still haven't had enough. And I still can't wait to get back on the road with Him. He keeps me young, and after all those miles and years I still can't believe I'm serving Him today. And the more I roads I ride, I find there are many more I need to. The desire only gets stronger.

Trust Jesus today. There are many places He wishes to take you-some that aren't on any map. Many you have never heard of, and many that without Him you will never know. For being on the road with Jesus brings a satisfaction that nothing else can. For you cannot fully experience Jesus from a church pew. You need to get out to experience a joy of life, a calmness of spirit, and love for life found nowhere else. With a friend that sticks closer than no other. Jesus loved being on the road, that was where His friends were. People like you and me. Not the stuffy church types with their rules and regulations. They argued with Him, and tried to trap Him. So He ministered out on the road. Where lie was going on. He is all about freedom, isn't it time you gave up religion and experienced some?

Let God take you on some new roads, and some new adventures today. Places not known to those who don't trust. Places not known to those with rules. A freedom that only comes from the Spirit. I didn't realize 40 years ago that the roads would never end. Or that Jesus could bless so much. Some things you just need to find out for yourself. A life with Jesus is a life that is more than words. Where you ride today depends on who you ride with. If your God doesn't ride, it's time you met Jesus.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

The Christmas Tradition

2011-12-06T07:36:00.000-08:00

It was traditional that the Lennon wives were great cooks. Somehow through the combination of great taste in women, divine intervention, and a loving mother-in-law, they all turned out to be terrific cooks. The men would brag it was great taste in women. And now it was time for the newest Lennon wife to host her first Christmas meal for the family. The passing of the torch if you will. There would be four generations present, and almost 30 people to feed. And the thought of it positively scared the newest Mrs. Lennon. But as was also traditional, the mother-in-law (MIL) would teach her and help her with the meal. With a great deal of relief, but still some trepidation, MIL agreed to arrive a few days earlier to tutor and assist.

First was to make sure she had the right pots and pans, and lacking them, MIL took her out to buy them, MIL told her they were a late wedding gift, or an early Christmas present, they both smiled about it. Then on to the market to buy all the food. There would be buttery mashed potatoes, candied yams, oyster filling, a special cranberry relish, sweet corn, green bean casseroles, and potato biscuits. But the highlight of the meal was always Granny's pot roast. A tradition passed down to her daughter, Grandma, to her daughter, MIL, and now to the newest Mrs. Lennon. A special recipe for a special meal. Four generations of Lennon wives to impress, not to mention the men who were anxiously waiting. Maybe it wasn't fair to be tested on Christmas, but the rewards would be worth it. Let the cooking begin!

So after prepping all the veggies, and making the rolls, it was time to cook the meat. Carefully seasoning it, MIL grabbed the sharpest knife and cut an inch off both ends. When Mrs. L asked why, MIL explained that was the way she was taught. And into the oven it went. The house smelled intoxicating that day, stretching the hours until it was done, and when the meal was over, no one was hungry. Seconds and thirds had assured Mrs. L that there would be no leftovers, and all praised her for her continuing the tradition. Her husband could not have been prouder. MIL and her exchanged a special smile.

As the men sat and watched an old Christmas movie, the four generations of women gathered around Granny in the kitchen. Praising her for her famous pot roast recipe, she smiled. It was then that MIL asked Grandma why she cut the ends off the meat. "Because that was how I was taught." Who then turned to Granny and asked her why. Finally, the generational cooking secret was to be revealed. A secret that no one but Granny knew, and until the latest Mrs. L inquired, no one had asked. With the type of smile that only years of keeping a secret can bring, she chuckled. And soon was laughing.

That was the way her mother had taught her! Fearing that the secret would end there, and finding out a fifth generation Lennon wife was involved, they asked her to continue. "The roaster my mother had was small. So to get the meat to fit in it, she had to cut part of it off to make it fit." I always thought it was part of the recipe myself, until she commented on my larger cooker one day that now she wouldn't have to trim the meat to fit. But being tradition, we still do!" The secret was out, that being that there was no secret. The pot was too small! Or the meat too big. A secret that will have to wait until the next Mrs. Lennon asked, and the legacy passed on. But for now, these four women would have the last laugh, and the tradition of Lennon women being great cooks would be honored. All due to the size of the pot. And the secret was still safe!

Traditions have their place in society. And among families during the holidays. But should not be the guiding inspiration when it comes to God. So often we keep God in a box, or pot, and when He doesn't fit, cut off parts that we don't understand, or think we need.
We neglect faith, trusting our jobs to provide. We remove love, when someone wrongs us. We don't fellowship, for all the others in church are hypocrites anyway. We follow the teachings of a denomination, rather than seek God. Hey, it worked for my ancestors, why change now? And they would be wrong-it's time to let God out of the box!

Trust God! Let Him guide your life. Blessings abound for those who do. He provides despite your income or job situation. He forgives us, showing us how we should forgive others. He shows us truth, and exposes incorrect traditional teachings for what they are. And He gives us Jesus-so that we can be reunited with Him. And not just for Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. He shows us love every day.

Maybe today is the time to bury the tradition, and let Jesus out of the box. Embrace Him in every part of your life-don't keep Him a secret. Let Him be Lord, and with the love of the Holy Spirit start a new tradition-one that should be passed on. TRUST GOD!

For four generations Granny kept the secret. Jesus is no secret. Once you know Him you just have to share Him. So start a new tradition, or continue the one of Jesus in your family today. And the tradition of thanking Him for the meal-remember feeding the 5000? Thirty can seem like 5000 when preparing. Include Him in your recipe. Always enough, and always some left over. For later.

But for now, trust God. And enjoy the meal He prepares before you. Pass it on to the next generation. Some traditions just can't be kept in a box. Something about Jesus and a tomb, I seem to remember, that couldn't hold Him. If a tomb can't hold Him, no box will either!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Willie, Eddie, Jesus, and motorcycles

2011-12-05T08:29:00.000-08:00

Are any of you out there just average? Did you make up your mind when younger and setting goals to just achieve mediocrity? Do you fall back on the excuse "well at least I am better off than most." And freefall from there, as others pass you by, due to your average effort. Have you ever had or been a middle manager in some business, and wondered what it was you were supposed to do? No responsibilities, no authority, but lots of blame comes your way. Did you ever stop to think that maybe it wasn't the situation that was average, but maybe was effort was below average?

We have become a society of doing just enough to get by. I have won awards from companies for being the best, when the field I competed in was so bad. Did I win or did they lose? Have you ever bragged about being runner up, in a two man race? Finished in the top three, of three? And felt like a winner? Aim low enough, you will eventually hit your mark. Maybe you are more average than you think.

It is not uncommon for people I know to come up and tell me of the neat things they are doing for God. Badges, pins, trophies, or some other recognition. Like they have accomplished something by getting the award, when really they are so average. Pins to the first 500 entrants. "I went into the ghetto and fed homeless." Good. "I did my two weeks in Hawaii with the youth group." Good. "I visited nursing homes just like the pastor said." Good. Then after my one effort went back to my old lifestyle. Average again. Or fill in any of the above with what you did when asked. And you will be average. Name...here! Or maybe below. You did your job, but what did you do leave behind that others will remember and be blessed by? Did you go beyond the required and let God lead you to greater things? That only He would see? What made it special? Was it God? Or who saw you. And what did you get out of it? God's trophies don't fit any shelves I ever saw. Would you go back, alone?

Two examples-to aid in your decision. There is a national prison/motorcycle ministry that goes into prisons with the bikes. After the celebrity speaker finishes, they break up one on one for ministry. Ask Bro. Willie-he does this every chance he gets when it is within a 600 mile radius of where he lives. Not once a year when it just happens to be in his area. He loves God, and the prisoners he meets. He has a special love for them. His commitment is above average. But when I meet many others who attend, there reward is going for a trophy after five visits. Some even attend just for the trophy. Same trophy, but a different reward. We need more Willies. If it were for trophies, he would have to store his bikes outside because of all of them he has received. Both attend, both give, both receive. Willie ministers from the heart, in the spirit. Others from a script. Those who Willie ministers to will remember him, he is a constant, and leaves more than he takes. He takes the time, and will make the time. No middle management gospel here. Is yours?

A few years ago a group went from Calvary Chapel Escondido to deliver talking Bibles in Africa. Largely illiterate, this was the first exposure to the gospel for many in Africa. And many lives were changed. On a free afternoon, while others were resting, or sight seeing, Eddie came across some men with broken motorcycles. Nothing major, loose chains, tighten bolts, and tune ups. Change some tires. So being a fellow biker, he spent the day showing them how to use the tools, and fix their own bikes. Now they could ride! And knew how to fix them after Eddie left. He had taken them the gospel, but left them a special gift-the time he gave them. They could ride again! A prayer answered, by a man who took the time to fix their bikes. And he was to be remembered as the man who told me about Jesus, and fixed my motorcycle. The gospel gave them life, and Eddie showed them how to enjoy it. And share it with others. And every time they ride, they remember him, and the Jesus who sent him. Because he gave more than was required. Just like Willie, it comes from the heart. What is the legacy you leave?

Where do your ministry efforts show up? Do you spend the time it takes, or do you just wear the colors? See I am in... Or have the bumper sticker? Or attend the church? What part of Jesus and His love for others is missing in your life? Maybe if you have to tell the world you are a Christian, you need to reconsider. It is the things not seen that are eternal. Do you represent a club, a church, a ministry, or Jesus? Ask God, if you are too timid to ask yourself. Then obey Him. Ask Him for a new heart. To have a love for the lost, and the church. To minister in love one on one. Preach the word daily, when necessary use words. Or motorcycles. Letting the light of God shine through all the cracks in your life. Make a difference.

Maybe Timothy Leary, yeah that one, put it best. "Beware the lollipop of mediocrity, one lick and you will suck forever." Beware the trophy flavored one. It can be deadly. We have all been given the heart of Jesus when we are saved. What we do with it is up to us. Of all the things I have heard to describe Jesus, average is not one of them. His love cannot be termed mediocre. How about yours?

Remove the lollipop, and show God's love to others. Go beyond what is required, and do what is needed. If God has to ask what have you been doing, maybe you haven't been. It is not what the world sees that counts, it is what God sees. For He so loved, He sent His only sons, and daughters to share His gospel. Nothing average about Jesus....so don't you be!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Dean Wormer's advice on life

2011-12-02T07:55:00.000-08:00

One of my selling points years ago when I was selling fasteners, was to remind body shops of how a $10,000 job would be held up waiting for a 50 cent bolt. I have seen shops pay $25 postage just to get a 50 cent bolt. There is always time to over react, when being prepared would have saved money and stress. So we always inventoried popular bolts and nuts to avoid this. Put the money in product rather than shipping. The job is not finished until it gets paid for, and can't be picked up and paid for if it isn't complete. It is not uncommon for larger shops to have $100's of thousands of work in process, with parts bills outstanding that don't get paid until they do. A cycle that when you are at any part of the food chain, you are in jeopardy of delayed payment just because of the next level of the food chain getting held up. Fortunately great profit margins are built into each level, but still most businesses live in an almost day to day, or job to job condition. Just like in real life, we are not prepared for the unexpected, and then immediately go to over react. Sadly, when we are warned, and still don't react, we still over react. And the crowd never gets smaller. Nor the over reaction!

Normalcy bias is a psychology term meaning that just because it has never happened before, or to you, it won't happen. Some great examples in history are Hitler, when the Jews still could leave and didn't, then those who had stayed due to wealth, position or power were shipped off to horror factories like Auschwitz and killed. Some 6 million in Germany alone! Or Katrina in 2005, when warned the levees would break, some stayed on dangerous ground because the levees were 100 years old, and had never broken before. Sure they'll hold again. We all know the results, and New Orleans residents still are reeling from them today. Just because you never saw it, understand it, or believe it doesn't make it not true! Maybe this is why we ignore so many warnings, then go to over react, along with others afterward. If we still are able to! Sail on the Titanic-it's unsinkable. Down to the too few life boats, and those who refused to fill them. Stupid hurts. And can be deadly.

My girlfriends best friend in high school wasn't me, her name was Donna, who drove 20 miles home one night with the low oil light on. The car finally died in front of her home, the engine seized, and when in between rantings from her dad of what happened, she said a light was on, but she was just obeying him. She had been told not to stop for any reason after dark. We all choose the most inconvenient times to obey our parents. All the engine knew was that it was now useless, a casualty that didn't have to occur. Perhaps the best advise coming out of Animal House was from Dean Wormer to Flounder, "Son, fat, drunk, and stupid is no way to go through life." Emphasize stupid.

Scoffers they are called. Proudly proclaiming to know more than God. Telling any who will listen, "where is the promise of His coming?" And then making fun of Christians who believe the Bible. Same as in Noah's time, and they were probably the first ones to beat on the ark after the door closed, and the rains came. Ignorance is not a new thing, a liberal thing, a political thing, or a non-believer thing. It is steeped in lack of trust in God, and based on pure pride-I know best. And just because in the US of A you have the right to be wrong doesn't excuse it. Jesus warns in Matthew 24 about the times to come, and they are here now. Strange weather, famine, rumors of wars, pestilence, food shortages, economic upheaval, families falling apart,and the dismantling of values. Riots in the street. Hate filled terrorists. Watch any news report, and without these items mentioned, you only have the commercials left. Not much better. Yet, normalcy bias runs rampant. And as I watched greed personified on Black Friday, I am saddened by how low we have fallen as a society. Just to save a few bucks, we have prostituted our values, and our character with it. "I saved $100 on a TV!" While the woman with her kids in the shadows is starving.

It is time to turn to God now. Trust Jesus. No one understands the things of God-He's God! Seek Him now while it is still easy. DON'T be like Steve Jobs. Brilliant inventor, and a man who almost single handedly changed the way we live, do business, listen to music, and communicate. A billionaire! But he didn't know Jesus. Yet, his story is the same as the poorest man on skid row. How much did Steve leave when he died? EVERYTHING! Just like you will, just like I will, when we die. It is where we spend time after death that separates us. I choose Jesus-and heaven. Sadly Steve didn't.

The warnings are there. The problems are here and growing. But so is the answer-Jesus Christ. Ignorance will not rescue you, only God will. If you could only talk to a person on the Titanic, a Jew from Germany, or a person from Katrina, you would find they have a different take on the warnings now. Even Donna would never drive again with a warning light on. All these disasters could have been avoided. So why are you waiting? If you think it is hard to trust God now, with all you have, it will only be harder when you have nothing, and are under persecution. Today is the day of salvation. Tomorrow is promised to no man. Leaving it all behind is better than being left behind. The choice is yours-as for me and my family, we choose Jesus! I hope you do too.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

I'm sorry, I thought you rode

2011-12-01T07:42:00.000-08:00

My friend used to tell me that there are only two colors for motorcycles-and that both are black. We'd laugh, but in his Harley Davidson world, he may have been right. Seems Harley thinks in black, as in profits, and also for the basic color of their motorcycles, read the small print, you want color, you pay extra. So maybe that is why we see so many black Harleys, they rather spend the money on the chrome! And per Harley, after the dumping of Buell, they rather sell you $3000 of chrome-an average upsell on a new bike, than sell you a sport bike. It seems they know their customers, or do their customers know them?

With the popularity of Sons of Anarchy, the fictitious 1%er soap opera, I see guys on all kinds of bikes wearing their clothes. bad dudes-nude the small d. From guys who are the lifestyle, to trendy guys and girls who would never ride, might mess up their hair, or even get bugs on their shirts, motorcycling has become a popular fashion. It has always been popular for Harley riders to get shirts from dealers when travelling, and I have been doing it with Triumph for years. Johnson Motors a few years back even brought out a line of retro shirts, but @$50 a shirt, you never saw many on the street. And even though Christopher tells me the material is high quality, the one I bought sits among the other lesser shirts in my closet. The price we pay to be stylish.

But "bad guy" biker/moto clothes seem to be in. Triumph has a Steve McQueen collection, some cool stuff. Also a James Dean jacket, and a Black Rebels Motorcycle Club jacket just like Brando wore in The Wild One. So all of us can look as bad as Brando, or as cool as Steve, or as rebellious as Dean without even mussing our hair, or throwing a leg over a motorcycle. Posers we call them, and although they look the part, don't be confused by them. For like their motorcycles, $20,000 and 20 miles don't make you a biker. And we have a bad enough problem with image let alone you posers adding to it. And I find it is usually the wanna-bes that promote the image. My test is simple-no helmet head, no rider. No rider, no biker. No biker-buy your clothes at the GAP. Before you run into a real biker who has had enough of your facade. And may introduce you to the darker side of the lifestyle.

For 400 years the Jews had no prophets, and felt God had deserted them. Then along came John, a voice in the wilderness. Preaching good news, and advising the Jews to be baptized for the repentance of their sins. Now I'm sure there were many false prophets then as now, but John even looked the part. Camel hair robes, a leather belt, and he ate bugs. Sounds like a hippie! But with the absence of a prophet and his message for 400 years, he looked just like Elijah. A great prophet. And people were seeking a prophet. And soon people were flocking to him, in the wilderness, not in the temple or synagogues. And he kept his message simple-" a greater one than me is coming, who I am not fit to tie his sandal." For John was telling of Jesus, the true saviour. The real thing. A messenger in the wilderness, a calling for Jesus.

The real thing. Not trendy. Not stylish. Not a poser. If he had a motorcycle he would have had helmet hair. He wouldn't be found on Oprah, Dr. Phil, or other shows who profess to share their truth, because He is the truth. Whether He wore black leather, or a white shirt with his favorite dealer on it, He still draws people to Himself. He would feel as comfortable riding a black Harley as riding my blue Tiger. He would be happy riding a chopper, and equally at home on a mx'er. For Jesus loved people as they were, not the package they came in. He changed lives from the inside out, not the other way. He has a passion for us, and it goes far beyond leather and colors. He is so cool He doesn't need any of them. He rides. Do you? Or did you just find the shirt?

Remember that as you go out today. Don't be fooled by the shiny leather, or even the distressed leather. Posers are everywhere. And sadly within the confines of religion. So seek Jesus, and Him only. Don't buy into religion. You don't need a set of underwear to get into heaven. You only need Jesus. No denomination can deliver it without Him. No membership or club will deliver it. For if $20k and 20 miles don't make a biker, then sitting in a pew at church doesn't make you a Christian. The only pew you sit in is your own! Seek THE truth, and accept no others.

A funny thing happened with John in the wilderness. Attendance at the temples went down. Enough law, how about some grace? Some truth? It forced people to get out of religion-which Jesus was against, and sent them looking for the truth. Which was found with a simple message about Jesus. Who John pointed everyone to.

Maybe that is why as bikers we enjoy the freedom more than those who don't ride. But the freedom in Jesus even surpasses that. If you see us out, and wonder who we are, we are the ones with helmet head. The dirty leathers, and old boots. No pretty hair or double knit here. We ride. Maybe not on a black bike, although I have two, or even a Harley. We will be identified by the light shining out from us, the love of Christ. A style, that not even the GAP can copy. That no t-shirt can express. Jesus Christ-the real thing, cooler than McQueen, more of a rebel than Dean, and more of a leader than Brando. And yes, even cooler than riding a Harley. He is the life in your style. He is life. He is love. No chrome needed.

A style that goes with any color, on any bike, on any road. Maybe a ride into the wilderness to get away from religion just may be a good weekend ride. Spend some time with Jesus alone. Jesus and motorcycles-too cool for most, but available to all who seek. Wonder what shirt I should wear?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Jesus the cave man

2011-11-30T07:33:00.000-08:00

When asked why Star Trek was such a success, Gene Roddenberry explained that he took contemporary circumstances, and put them into a space environment. We could relate to them! What a simple, yet successful premise. Even worked for George Jetson, his boy Elroy, daughter Judy, and Jane his wife. And at the other end of the time line, and in the first prime time cartoon, were the Flintstones, the MODERN, stone age family. Based on the Honeymooners, Fred was Ralph Kramden, the big hearted, big mouthed, idealistic buffoon always looking for the way to a better tomorrow. And we can associate with Fred and Ralph, for we all have times of lousy bosses, in laws that interfere, lack of money, bad bowling nights, and all the other daily battles we engage in that we refer to as life. We were right there with Fred. Right there in the Rubble with Barney. HEE-HEE-HEE-HEE!

Which always amazed me at how the writers were able to adapt today's situations to the stone age. The future was an unknown, but the past we all knew about dinosaurs. So whereas Roddenberry used his talents and applied them to the future, Hanna and Barbera applied them to the past. And two iconic shows were created, both popular 50 years later because we still can relate to them today.

That was why Jesus taught in parables. Far from the scriptural discussions and lessons inside the temple with the Pharisees, Jesus taught those outside the temple in parables. So we would get it, and relate to them, and Him. So we could see love, grace, and mercy through prodigals, invitations not accepted, and seed not bearing fruit. Wages that seemed unfair, and the foolishness of trusting in riches. We can all relate to having these go on in our lives, and through the Holy Spirit can be brought closer to God when reading them.

But not many realize that Jesus was a cave man. Not modern like the Flintstones, but a cave man just the same. From the night He was born, remember there was no room at the inn, and He was born in a stable-which was a cave where the animals were kept, to His burial in a cave, He was a cave man to the end. He was born in a rented cave, and was buried in a borrowed cave-and neither could hold Him. For He knew better than we ever will how temporary life on earth really is. He had no real estate holdings, luxury mansions, or 737's so He could fly anywhere without the humiliation of public travel. He never held a telethon, never threatened to go off the air if you didn't send Him money, never went on a book tour, and never asked for money. It was all temporary to Him, and it should be to us too. No matter what your belief, death is a 100% fact. It is what you believe, and in whom you believe that makes a difference. Only Jesus will get you to heaven. Be warned, hell is not temporary!

Three days after the Good Friday night that He was buried in, the cave/tomb-it was found empty. He was resurrected, just like He promised those that believe in Him will be. From the rented cave of His birth, to the borrowed cave of His death, all His promises are "yes and amen." One promise we overlook is that He tells us we shall do all the things He did, and even more. We too are only here temporarily, He even calls our bodies tents-temporary dwellings. We too can see the miracles He performed, and be involved in them ourselves. And we too shall be resurrected with Him. Eternal life, with a cave man. Did you ever hear anyone name and claim that? Would you ever consider serving someone who was born and buried in a cave, man?

Maybe that is why the gospel is so simple, even a cave man can understand it. When faced with heaven, what else can we say but to echo Fred, "YUBBA DUBBA DO!!!" What do you say? He was born in cave, man, and was buried in a cave, man, and was resurrected from a cave, man. Trust God-and have a YUBBA DUBBA DO GOOD TIME!

Ironically the Flintstones never lived in a cave. You don't have to either, someone has taken your place. Jesus Christ-a true cave man. That's someone I can relate too!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

billions served

2011-11-29T08:17:00.000-08:00

In a designer world of food, I am proud to say I am a meat and potatoes man. Blame it on my mother's pot roast, I can still hear the pressure cooker sizzling, and smell the meat and carrots and potatoes. So m and p it is for me. Meatloaf with melted cheddar cheese on top and scalloped potatoes at Lucille's on old Route 66 in Oklahoma. A sizzling steak with a baked potato at Cattleman's. Or the chicken fried steak at Lamberts with mashies-I am and p man for all seasons. But in So Cal, when you talk meat and potatoes, it means a burger and fries. And within a 100 mile radius of Los Angeles, just after WWII some great burger stands opened, and still flourish today. Grab your napkins, and let's check them out-

Tommy's-#3 with extra chili and onions. Great chili, big portions, and a standard since 1946, starting from one stand. Finally...now in San Diego. They use paper towels for napkins, need I say more?

Bakers out of San Berdoo-first double kitchen since 1952. Theresa likes their shredded beef burrito, for me a Papa burger please, supersized with the 1/2 pound of fries. Local to the area only, but only an hour by motorcycle. Great reason to get out of town.

Foster's Freeze since 1946. Can you say chocolate dipped cone? Added burgers and fries later, great locally owned for a cheap meal. It's ok to have the cone first-think of it as a three course meal, with all the important food groups.

Carl's Jr. still charbroils their burgers. Since 1946, first taste of California we used to encounter riding from Durango. When eating at the one in Phoenix, I got hooked on Western Bacon Cheeseburgers-bbq sauce instead of ketchup. With an onion ring.

The Double Double at In and Out still makes mouths water since 1946. The most asked for burger for those coming home, or getting out of jail or the hospital. The smell when riding by is intoxicating, and I'll have a strawberry shake-made with real ice cream. Killer fries, always a line, but worth the wait. Add onion, or go animal-the best in So Cal.

Mc Donalds, yeah that one. Started on Route 66 in San Berdoo, just like Bakers, Taco Bell, and others, and was the original fast food burger. The food that introduced me to 1.6 ounce burgers, and warm lettuce. Today prices are high, portions small, and they are trying to reinvent themselves as a Mac Cafe. The standard for fries, and sometimes you just have to have a Big Mac! Last on my list, but the largest in the world. Until In and Out goes nationwide.

Jack in the Box is San Diego based, too bad the food isn't as good as their commercials. Still a Sourdough Jack is never a bad choice. Too mainstream like Mickey D's. Original stand on El Cajon Blvd. is now a taco hut. Figures.

Bob's Big Boy is still serving their double burger, in a restaurant setting. The original they claim. Who from the forties remembers, or cares? And we could also include The Hat for pastrami, "World's Best" the sign says, for my taste it is. How about Taco Bell, Glen Bell, another San Berdoo boy who when encouraged by his friend Glenn Baker of Baker's fame grew and sold out to Pepsi, now YUM Foods. And the local list goes on and on.

So beware when you accuse someone of only being a meat and potatoes man. You are showing a lack of style when it comes to the most basic of the food groups. There is much more than meets the eye-or stomach. Jesus is like that too. Just a man some say. Some just consider Him a myth, or a legend, although contemporary historians talked of Him. Just a teacher, or rabbi, He was , but was the Rabbi of Rabbis. The ultimate, for He taught from a first hand basis. A great prophet? True, He did reveal many mysteries, and talked of the future. He was even the fulfillment of prophecy over 200 times. But He was who He said He was-the Son of God. Who was born of a virgin, died on the cross, and then rose after three days. Any one of those a boast by itself, He did all three! Meanwhile He healed the sick, raised the dead, gave sight to the blind, made the lame to walk, and is the only way to God. The Savior of the world. Just a man?

So let's meet over a burger and fries and share Jesus with you. In love. Your choice, just like when it comes to Him. More than just meat and potatoes, let's add a milk shake and have a true discussion of Jesus. Using the Bible as a reference. But no preaching. We can call it fellowship, but Jesus says wherever two or more are gathered in His name it is church. Burger church. Pass the fries, rather than the collection plate. For Jesus loved to eat too. And when we pray before the meal, we have invited Him to eat with us. And even In and Out puts scripture references on the bottom of their cups! And He has served more than Mc Donalds!

A burger, fries, and a shake-the trinity of meals. Father, Son, and Holy Spirit-the trinity of God. Just meat and potatoes? Add a bun, for God tells us that man doesn't live by bread alone. Or Big Macs. Worship the Lord while eating at your favorite burger stand today, and you will never eat alone. Yup, call me a meat and potatoes man. Praise the Lord, and pass the ketchup, please!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthw25biker.blogspot.com

love to ride, ride to love

2011-11-28T07:32:00.000-08:00

Before I ride with someone for the first time, I like to ask them questions. How fast and how far are we going? Freeways or backroads? How many in the group? And then I make the final decision whether to ride with them or not. How fast can mean 55mph on a freeway-"gotta obey the law," they say, as cars go whizzing by giving us dirty looks, and how far can mean 50 total, or 200 miles to get there. Freeways-sometimes you just gotta, but back roads are still the best. And then the how fast issue-some can't handle turns, or have even come to the point in their riding where they enjoy them. Lean? Are you crazy? How many in the group is usually my excuse to go by myself. Sadly we have taught ourselves to be courteous to the slowest rider, dumbing down our speed and skills, when they should attempt to get better. I thought courtesy worked both ways. And why, I ask, do some take their only day off to ride, and ride with someone too slow, on roads they hate, and never leave the neighborhood? And grouse about it all week, until they repeat the same exercise the next weekend? Fun? Not for me!

With so many roads to ride, places to eat, and places to see you need to have a sense of adventure. A desire for more than what you already know, and more than where you have already been. Where does that road go? I wonder how good are the burgers there? Maybe let's spend the whole day riding-not stopping and talking every 45 minutes-we do call it a ride don't we? And when you do, you learn more about yourself also. How after 500 miles, a good meal can revive you, and how a strange bed can let you sleep so well. How waking up in a different place changes your whole attitude on today's ride, a cool morning on the road is invigorating, when the same temperature at home would let you stay there. Knowing in an hour it will be hot, so you ride to an unknown diner, and eat their specialty, and then back on the road, full and comfortable. And excited...the road lies ahead! And then you repeat the process, wishing you had more time-a weekend suddenly isn't enough. And end up passing on the same old rides your friends take. And when they wonder "what's the matter with you, is he crazy?" you know it is really what is the matter with them. And you can only hope they break out of their miserable syndrome of the same road, the same diner, with the same people. Realizing they may be crazy-the definition of insanity is doing the same thing, but expecting different results. It takes a miracle sometimes, or maybe just a simple invitation, maybe they are just waiting for you to ask.

The early church faced a similar situation. They were comfortable where they were. But God had told them to take the gospel on the road-to all nations. Jerusalem, your local roads. Judea-maybe a long day trip. Samaria-how about a 500 mile day, with an overnight? But since they resisted, He let persecution come upon them, so they had to flee, sometimes for their lives, but stayed true to God as they went. That is how the gospel spread. And that is the way to "preach the gospel everyday." As you go, let it be your example. Anyplace you encounter someone else, you have the chance to share Jesus. Maybe not by words but by attitude. Maybe not by your colors or shirt, but by your actions. Someone is always listening, I know I will be surprised in heaven when someone says I heard you talking about Jesus at the bike shop, or diner, or wherever....it is how you respond to them, how you interact. I have even found that just giving them a card after talking with a "call me if I can ever help" has led many to call for prayer-or to call with prayer for others. So many fail when they think that evangelism is inviting people to church. I have never met anyone who at sometime in their life didn't have a problem with church-or the people. Be a friend first-or don't you remember that Jesus calls us friend? Do you listen more easily to your friend, or would you rather argue with your enemy?

Listen to others. Show love, compassion, empathy, before you speak. Or advise. Jesus may have taught in the temple, but He ministered out on the streets. With whoever He met. Not a heavy theological diatribe to impress, but simple signs of concern showing He cared. Meeting them where they were, how they were, and with what they needed. He called it love. Don't you love to ride? Maybe there is something to spreading the gospel....

Today we are the temple that the Holy Spirit dwells in. Take the temple to others. Ride with them, listen to them, and sit and eat with them. What a blessing to those who are Christian bikers that we get to ride as we spread His gospel. That we have the freedom of the road, in the spirit, and that truly there are so many roads, and so little time.

So quit bragging about what a great rider you are-show me. And quit bragging about all the things you know about God-show me. Just simply love me. Keep it simple, and keep it on the way to your next destination. All my roads eventually lead to heaven. It's time to show the lost the real road to Christ. No preaching-let the spirit flow through you. Bring the church to them. Be the church, that refreshing water we all thirst for.

Never ever has there been a better time to ride and share Jesus. Now, where are you going to ride today? I hear there is this great road out of Judea, goes through Samaria...as you go, preaching the gospel, only using words when needed. Wanna ride?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the parts store

2011-11-25T07:55:00.000-08:00

Old question from the seventies-How many people does it take to change a light bulb? Answer-it depends on how much the bulb really wants to change!

My mission last Wednesday was to fix little things on the company fleet that I had been neglecting. With winter temps and rain coming our way, it was time to get the S-10 and Uncle Buck ready to drive, when needed. Changed the oil and air filter on the Chevy, and decided to replace the headlight that was filled with water. So down to the auto parts store I go-trip one. Air filter-only took two tries. "I don't care if that is what the computer says-" as he hands me a round filter-"the one in my truck is square," so back to the computer, and looking it up correctly this time, finds the right one-at two times the price of the wrong one. Now for headlights.

"It's a 9003," he says as I stop him in midstride. I used to sell car parts-this is an old style sealed beam, not a bulb for sculptured lights. Again the computer excuse, then try two tells him its the square one. So I ask him, and he swears it is the right one-until I get home and it isn't. So jumping into Uncle Buck, my 1990 Ford Crown Victoria LX, I drive back and get the right one-after I called and the manager explains to me he has the right one I need. "Been doing this for 20 years." Didn't say if he had gotten it right yet. So exchanging sealed beams, I decide to replace the one on the Ford. "Give me two," and I'm off. Chevy done, lights work, all is well in the driveway. Onto Uncle Buck. But the sealed beam is wrong. Remember the old days when Ford and Chevy were still big enough to do things their way, even when the parts were the same? Well they obviously were still big in 1990, because although the bulbs fit, they used a different plug. So...back again after calling, and being on hold for over 8 minutes. They had it waiting, were apologetic, and we all learned something that day. I wish patience had been one of them, but I was reminded how perseverance can be a key to success when all other talents fail. And as we drove to church that night in Uncle Buck, I could see the road-I had lights! In one day I had brought light to both a Ford and a Chevy-they all got along. Never imaginable just a generation ago, but in today's world, they were at peace. And although I hear this Japanese company Toyota wants a piece of them....I'll stick with my made in the US of A products!

Have you ever given good advice only to see the person fail when it wasn't taken? Have you ever been given good advice and not taken it? And wondered why it cost more in time, money, and aggravation? Remember this when sharing Jesus with someone. And remember how long it took you. All the "intelligent" arguments you had, until you saw the light-no pun intended. So be aware next time you share. It isn't about your great Bible knowledge, where you go to church, your "gift" for evangelism, or anything you can do on your own. It is about Jesus. It is the Holy Spirit that changes hearts, and lives-not you. The great commission isn't to argue them into heaven-sadly this is misquoted, you are to disciple them after they get saved. Which can be a harder job-because there again it takes the Holy Spirit to guide them into all knowledge. So remember, when asked how many people does it take to make someone a Christian, it only takes one-the Holy Spirit! You can't save anyone! So be thankful that Jesus does change lives. Not by might-even though your arguments are sound and good, not by power-even though the promises are true, but by His spirit-the only thing that can save us! For change comes about from within, and affects without, not the opposite. And just a note of reminder-once you start to argue, stop! Just the argument shows you have lost it! So...let God do God's job, and watch as lives change-just like yours did when He saved you.

Patience leads to salvation-God's patience. Perseverance is not a bad thing-it just doesn't save, only Jesus does. And a note to us all-it only took three times to get the right lights-asking the right questions could have saved me two trips. So ask! And seek the truth!

God loves questions-it's up to us to go with His answers. Which by the way, are always right-the first time! Now, how much do you really want to change?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Mo'Jesus not Motown

2011-11-23T08:16:00.000-08:00

John Kruk, ex-Padre and professional ballplayer, one time was asked by a woman at the airport if he was an athlete. "No mam, just a ballplayer." Good answer. So I just love it when this happens to me. I have on a Triumph t-shirt, with my Triumph leather jacket over it. Standing by my Triumph. "What kind of motorcycle do you ride?" she asked. As "like, duh" rings in my ears, I choose silence, hoping for no more questions, but based on her first question I knew they are coming. So as she asks "do you ride a Harley?" I decide to fight back. The other day when a woman asked me that question, putting down my helmet, I told her I didn't ride, I just found the jacket. And she wanted to know where did I find it? Sometimes there is no winning, so I just smiled, got on the Triumph and rode off. Knowing that somewhere out there, she has team mates, and they always seem to find me. Where is the target on me? Why could she see the jacket, but not the words on it? What would Kruk have answered?

What is Winnie the Pooh's middle name? How many cans in a six pack? Is the Pope Catholic? Obvious answers. Ever wonder why you couldn't see the invisible man? Because he was invisible! Yet put clothes on him, and wrap his hands and face, and you could see him-or the image of him. Now do you believe? Yet so much is visible and we choose not to. By the way, the T in Ragland T. Tiger stood for Larry, his father couldn't spell. That's his excuse, I'm not interested in yours.

Maybe that was why when Marvin Gaye sang "Heard it Through the Grapevine," we should heed his words, "believe half of what you see, and none of what you hear." Confused, he then pleads "if it's true please tell me..." After that advice? Yet-even rock lyric truth can be suspect when it comes to reality. And when trying to share God-who you can't see, feel, taste, touch-but hear, Marvin's advice may be more relevant than you think. That is why we are told that without faith it is impossible to please God. For instance-

The more people try to disprove the Bible, the more they end up proving it. Science can show why evolution is a theory, and not a fact. It can even prove there was a flood. Josephus, a historian, the contemporary of Jesus, substantiates that Jesus was alive-a real person. Even atheists believe he may have been a great teacher, or rabbi, and even the Muslims will concur with that. But God? He was seen by over 500 after being resurrected, by those who believed and those who chose not to. Just like he said He would do. And hundreds of prophecies foretold hundreds of years ago have come true, some to the exact date. Yet-many don't believe. Maybe, we are still victims of Marvin's lyrics, and don't realize it-yet. Maybe we believe the wrong half of what we see.

So I ask, why can't you see the Holy Spirit? First, because He is a spirit. Second, how many heard Jesus teach, saw His miracles, and were fed by Him-they could even tell what He looked like, and one even ate his last dinner with Him, yet seeing wasn't believing for them. The Bible paints a beautiful picture of Him, yet no pictures exist-no camera phones yet. When God talks of blindness He is talking of more than a physical condition-it is one of the heart, the soul. So He gave us faith, to believe the truth. It is based on who Jesus is, not what we do. And based on what He did, not who we are. Just a little faith goes a long way. Believing with our heart, and confessing with our mouth, that Jesus is who He says He is-the Son of God! Then we are saved! Not understanding, not requiring feats of faith to prove to others-but just believing. No paperwork or club to join. No volunteering to prove it. Just believe and receive! SEE!

And we don't save people! Contrary to church sermons, denominational doctrines, and lies-only God can save. And the only way to Him is Jesus. That is why we call Him Savior! The great commission is not us saving anyone, just us being a witness so others can see Jesus in us. The Holy Spirit points the way, and then convicts us of our sin. He then has us to disciple, teach, and fellowship with new and other believers so we are strengthened by Him. All without ever seeing who we are believing in! Too bad Marvin never got this.

While the world states "seeing is believing," God says "believing is seeing." While the world has faith in a switch to send light, we have the light that sends faith. The only switching we should be concerned with is switching to Jesus! So next time you are asked "are you a Christian?" don't just be wearing the t-shirt, or just carrying a Bible, or just be on the way to church. Stop and ask why they ask. Let God give them answers to their questions, and watch as the invisible becomes visible in their heart. As the spirit works a miracle right before your very eyes. Just show love, and care, and watch as God changes their heart. You just get to be the person God chooses to use. For somehow they saw Jesus in you, and not just the shirt. Share in love, for they have others out there like themselves. No coincidence God sends them your way. DUH!

And if you have told others you are a Christian, we all expect you to act like one. We shouldn't have to ask! Oh, and if you're wondering how I knew, "I heard it through the grapevine!" For you see, He means that much to me. And if you really care, why didn't you tell me yourself?

And that's why we have the Holy Spirit!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

judging a country by the grain of its people

2011-11-22T07:59:00.000-08:00

How my dad ever got this book, Ford at Fifty, I don't know since he was never what you would call a car guy, or a Ford man. But I'm glad he did. In 1953, for their 50th anniversary Ford published this book, and it is an amazing look into America, its people, its past, and its future-from Ford's perspective. Concentrating on people, and how the Ford automobile has affected their lives, it showed hope for the future of the US of A. A hope we could all use today. Some excerpts-

Russ Bengel owns a manufacturing plant that supplies parts for new Fords. He brags that on a recent shipment of 6 million precision machined parts, the standard was 60,000 rejects, or 1%. He was proud of they actually found only 1300! And of 341,000 water pumps produced, only 36 rejects. That's 2/1000ths of a percent. American manufacturing at its best! And as ex-mayor of Jackson, he never gave a speech to run, he learned to make decisions by keeping his mouth shut-from his dad. To judge men by their character. His dad was a lumber buyer, and learned to judge lumber by its grain, and to judge men the same way, and has used it to find the best men for the right jobs.

Ben Johnson is profiled after 28 years with Ford. He plans to spend his retirement with his wife and grandson fishing, and eating picnic lunches. With his retirement checks each month, including Social Security, he takes home $145.10 per month. A far cry from when he started at 61 1/2 cents per hour, finishing at $2.001/2! Owns his own duplex too.

We also see how the local Ford dealership, Burton and White Motors of Sacramento were important to the community. Not only employing 84, up from 31 in 1946, the owners sponsor a Junior American League baseball team, and the owners are business and community minded-directors of the YMCA, the Red Cross, the Retail Merchants and the Retail Credit Associations.

This is the America I grew up in. It had a hope and a future, as promised by Jeremiah-if you sought God with all your heart. It was a sterling example of how God shed His grace on a country and its people, just like the words of the song declare. Of how when a country turns to God, He will prosper them. And using the example of Israel, He declares that whoever is Israel's friend He will protect, but whoever is her enemy, He will turn His back on. Today, at least on paper, we are the only ally Israel has. But sadly our actions and our attitudes tell a different story. And like the scripture says, unless we turn from our wicked ways, we shall perish. God wants to heal our land, to prosper us again, will you let Him heal your heart, and your land? It is personal, like the Ford stories, and begins one on one with Jesus. Will you turn to Jesus today while we can still look ahead? Before we can only look back?

Henry Ford once said "it is a poor business that makes only money." Russ Benton's dad judged men by their grain-their character. While we look on the outer man, God looks on the heart. Which scares me-for our hearts are so wicked we have become a country that worships more money, and will do anything for a dollar. Where men's character is compromised, until they get caught. But Jesus seeks to save that was lost. US!

Don't believe the ads that say "what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas." For God sees all, and we will have a day of accounting someday. Look around, it may be happening now! Trust God. If character is how we act when no one is looking, I shudder to think what God sees. But His love is true. And without qualification.

Be a person of character today. Trust God, and let Him lead your life. From womb to tomb, He loves you. Jesus taught in the temple, but ministered on the street. You do the same. Get out and into the community, be people of character while you still can. Let others see your light shine. The old Ford ad told us "there is a Ford in your future." Make sure that Jesus is in yours. Today.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the presence of cool

2011-11-21T08:41:00.000-08:00

For me, it is that special moment in Bullitt, when the Charger driver looks into his rear view mirror and sees the Mustang. At that point he goes from the hunter to the hunted, and the chase begins. With no dialogue, and limited music-just the sound of the Mustang is music enough, we get to see how a star's presence makes the scene-without saying a word. Just like Duke Wayne entering a bar, and being outnumbered 10 to 1, you know 10 won't be enough to beat him. When Bogie's facial expressions say more to Ilsa in Casablanca than any words, you are sensing a presence beyond words. Watch Marilyn, she didn't need words, her sexiness exploded on and through the screen. Great personalities, great actors, and a greater screen presence. And Steve McQueen playing Det. Frank Bullitt proves it throughout the movie. You can't imitate cool. Can't teach it, imitate it, or fake it. Cool is a presence that must be-from deep inside the person. And can't be described.

Christians have cool about them too, or should. It is called the Holy Spirit, and is in each one of us who is saved. A presence, that without words, should tell the world we are different. That we belong to Jesus, and it should beg others to ask us what is different about us? And how can they get it. But many choose-it is our choice, to neglect the spirit, to try to live without it. They forget it was the Holy Spirit that pointed us to Jesus, reminding us of His love for us first. It was the Spirit that comforts us, prays for and with us, and never leaves or forsakes us. It gives us wisdom, words, and even insight when we need it. And it always points to Jesus, who always points us to the Father-God. A presence way beyond description-He is the person of love!

The spirit has come upon us, but we need to yield to it, trust it to have it be in us. Trust- the word that keeps us from a fuller relationship with God, for trust allows us to obey God, and not question Him. Trust allows us to follow God even when there is no evidence of Him. And to know that whatever happens, it will turn out for our benefit. That 's love-that's God! That's the Holy Spirit!

So worship Him in spirit-with your life. A prayer partner when alone, a comforter when not sure, and guidance when in the valley of the shadow of death. He is the table set before your enemies, and the joy that overflows from your cup in life. While we may still love, but not be in love, He is love. Unconditional. We may have happiness, but He is joy in the situations we rather not endure. And He is peace when all hell is breaking out around you. The Holy Spirit-do you trust Him?

Where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. A presence that is cool like Steve. In command like the Duke. Concerned but not worrying like Bogie, and can create desire far more than Marilyn. Is this presence in your life? Or are you to busy studying to be approved? Not a bad thing, but did you realize that without the Spirit the mysteries of God are not revealed? Remember before Christ how you didn't understand the Bible, but now you are getting it? That's the spirit! Don't you understand your actions are futile without Him?

Ask God today to fill you with His spirit. Trust Him like you never have before. And see how cool Jesus really is. Cool enough to fill any situation without overtaking it. Cool enough to change water to wine. Cool enough to heal the sick and give sight to the blind. Cool enough to die on the cross for us. Yet cool enough to call us friend. WOW!

Just a chase scene in Bullitt? Tell me then, is it about the cars or the guys driving them?

Hint-it's all about Jesus! Now that's cool, too cool for even words! Gentlemen-start your engines!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

while praying is your voice the only one you hear?

2011-11-18T08:06:00.000-08:00

Last month I met a man for lunch whom I have known, but never gotten together with. While talking over burgers, he told me about a book he was reading to increase his prayer life. So I asked, "what book did you read so you could talk to me?" The puzzled look that followed confirmed the answer that he hadn't read one, and didn't need to. Didn't even think he might need one. Maybe even made him think, maybe I should have. So I asked, "then why do you need one to tell you how to talk to God?" You see, as personal as God wants to be with us, we fall back into worldly ways, or incorrect teachings from the pulpit, or legalistic advice that keeps us from God, and miss blessings from not allowing God to make it more personal and intimate. Are we so far from God we must take classes on how to talk to Him?

Imagine if you would, a person who calls every night at the same time. He goes on to tell you all his problems, whining and complaining, and then asks for your advice. As you get ready to answer him, he has to go-his favorite show is on, he has to get up early, etc... And hangs up before you can answer. And the process is repeated night after night. Sadly this resembles most peoples prayer life. Complaining to God, then asking for help, but NOT waiting for the answer. And then they wonder why God never answers their prayer.

Prayer has been defined as communication between God and man. I can go with that, but to many it is a monologue, they speak. God is supposed to listen, and it ends there. But true prayer is a dialogue, a two way conversation. One talks, the other listens. Then he responds, and the other listens. Spontaneous, not in five minute increments. I have heard pastors say talk to God for a few minutes, then listen. For five minutes. Would you talk to a friend that way? Then why do you talk to God like that? "OK God, five minutes is up, your turn."

So it is apparent that good listening may be at least as important as good speaking. And God is always telling us something via His spirit-are you listening? A simple fact check tells us we have two ears, but only one mouth. Should we listen twice as much? Is twice as much enough? Also you can control your mouth, but not your ears. Maybe, just maybe is God trying to tell you something?

Two years ago on the National Day of Prayer I met with others at the fountain at Escondido City Hall. We broke into groups, and were given a booklet of things to pray about. They asked me to lead a group, and when we got together we prayed differently than the others. We listened. For answers from God. As I explained that God already knows what we need, our situations, and our desires, it is us who need to wait on Him. To listen. So as we sat there quietly, you could tell by the few words spoken that our hearing was working. God was talking to us, better yet with us. We were having a personal dialogue with the Creator of the universe. And we all were blessed. And while others were still asking, we were receiving! We were listening to God! If it works in a crowd, imagine how it can work when alone!

God, please talk to us today. Give us ears to hear, just like Jesus said to the seven churches in Revelation. Help us to be more like you-patient, kind, and loving. Help us to desire that still, small voice that calls out to us. And while others ask, thank you for allowing us to receive.

Get to know God better by listening. Imagine how special you are to God that He would want to spend time with you. That's love. So listen. Just think, if it works with a loving God, what it can mean to others while listening to them? You may be able to minister to them more effectively. Why are you so sure God hears you when you don't listen for Him?Life isn't like Jeopardy, we don't have the answers, we have questions that need answers. Those that walk with God, and listen to Him in the Spirit, shall have the answers. The right answers.

Till the day you die, your hearing will be the last to go. God has so much to share with you, would you please shut up and listen? Might even change your phone habits at night. The line to God has no caller ID, He knows your name and voice. When praying, is your voice the only one you hear? True blessings come when you listen, know and recognize His.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

til death do we unite

2011-11-17T08:16:00.000-08:00

I read an old Road Rider yesterday that had story in it about Julius Kagel. Julius was a hard core motorcycle rider from Illinois, and was known within the touring community. The magazine was dated 1978, and he was a long time BMW rider. I even had the pleasure of meeting him once, when I lived back east, at the Marcus Dairy. The same one mentioned in those cool Kawasaki ads back in the early 80's. It was 1974, I had an R90S, and he came over and asked about it. He was about 80 at the time-an unbelievable age to a 21 year old at the time, and was dressed in his all black leathers-pants and jacket. He had probably at that point ridden more miles than I could ever dream of, and still rode all year round. His last major trip was touring Europe in 1973. Except when the storms of the Midwest prevented it, and then he studied maps and gathered information for his next trip that spring. He loved motorcycles, and he loved motorcycling. A true ambassador for the sport, and lifestyle. What a cool grandpa he must have been. And a much bigger influence on how and where I ride than I thought until I reread that article yesterday.

He loved to ride, loved the people, and loved the sport. As Christians we are told to be ambassadors of Christ. Says so right in the Bible. Which means we are to represent Christ. We are told that we should be known as Christians by our love, which should reflect God's love within us. We should love Jesus-He loved us first and died for us. But we often times have problem with His "fan" club. The religious types who are always willing to tell us how to live our lives, and give us more rules to do it. Personally, I rather trust God and walk in the spirit-and enjoy the freedom that God promises. It makes it easier to love God, and then I can love His people too. Even if it takes looking past their rules. But I also like being part of a strong church, one that is deeply rooted in the things of Christ, and being with others who wish to minister in the gospel. For it is only when in the spirit we can minister effectively, and it always goes back to Jesus. In the early church believers were part of what was called the Way, but then became known as Christians in Antioch-after Pentecost when the Holy Spirit had come upon the church. A form of ridicule at first, those of us are blessed to be known by it, and after 2000 years still face ridicule from those who are within and without the church. Bet you didn't think motorcycling was such a religious experience?

So we carry on, trying to love as Jesus did. Until we die, and then meet Him face to face in heaven-eternally. Our eternal reward, and entering it with the love of Jesus in our lives. Doing the things we wish to be doing-walking in Christ. Julius' wish was to be able to ride until the day that he died. Which he did, while riding at age 86. A car, driven by a young man, hit him-killing him. Riding until the day he died. A man so wrapped in motorcycling, he literally died with his boots on-and while riding. May we all go to the presence of the Lord doing what we love.

Make Jesus the desire of your heart, and He will give you your desire. For me, Jesus, Theresa, and motorcycles-it just don't get much better. And even though we acknowledge that the sport we love can be dangerous, we know that someday we will be in heaven-safe forever. Riding in the freedom that only Jesus can offer-and give.

Last time I looked, death was still at a 100% rate in everyone's life. A more assured thing than taxes. Make sure your final destination will be heaven. Become a Christian, then live like one. And enjoy life, and doing the things God allows you to do. So many roads, so many bikes, and such a short time. Thanks to God for all he does for us, and I am waiting for the day I meet Him face to face in heaven. And hopefully get to visit with Julius, who was also known for never missing church on Sunday-no matter where he was. Putting Jesus first, and then all these things shall be added unto you. Ride on-with Jesus! Till death do us unite!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com