in defense of da fence

I've owned four houses in three states, and although all were different, they all shared a common theme, they had fences. Which is much different from where I grew up, as no one had a fence unless they had a pool, and there were no built in pools in our neighborhood, and only Joey Coleman had a fence around his above ground. And the lack of fences made it easy to cut through yards for shortcuts, only using streets when riding our bikes. We didn't ride motorcycles yet, so no one took the long way home. But we did have fences, mostly for decoration, as they were split rail fences, and wouldn't keep anything in, and even less out. Maybe four feet high, with twin rails between them, they were perfect for sitting on and eating an Italian ice in summer, sitting on at night and talking with girls as we got older, building snow forts around when it snowed, or walking on.

And we used to love to walk on them, precariously balanced all of 36" above the ground, daring to walk the length of the one at my friends Bruce and Barry's house. And if you fell off, you started over at the beginning, not where you fell, and in a few weeks we were able to walk the whole fence, then started on the next length, that separated them from Frank, of Frank is bald fame. An unhappy man, who we seemed to make more unhappy. And for some reason the fun gene was missing from him, along with the one for hair, as he was bald, and anti-fence walking. What if his son saw us, next thing you know he'd want to have fun-not on my watch buddy!

But our real nemesis was a red haired woman from across Hetfield and down a block, Mrs. Prendergast, or just Prendergast to us. She would come over and tell us to not walk on the fence, we should be "fixing it, not destroying it," in her words. We were polite, at least to her face-good thing her walls or fence didn't have ears. Barry did a perfect imitation of her-I can still hear the voice and see the face. But we continued to walk those fences, and gained balance, and a sense of achievement when we finally made it to the end. And despite the encouragement, and/or encouragement of our friends, no one broke anything, or was maimed, or even fell into Frank's yard-making it a completely safe and fun event. And mostly Prendergast free. And they only thing that seemed to deter us was when someone got a new refrigerator or other appliance, "Hey Scottie's parents got a new stove,"and we were off to play in the empty box left on their front yard. Maybe it was left there to show off to the neighbors, but to us it was a fort, a rocket ship, or an underground hideout away from the government-even then we knew Big Brother was out to get us-and its name was Prendergast. But even she never invaded our cardboard security.

And sadly Prendergasts don't go away as you get older, seems there is always one to remind you not to have fun. Or exactly how to follow God for that matter. Churches have them, yes they have brought their lack of sense of enjoyment into religion to, along with a list of thou shalt nots-and then Jesus comes along to rescue you from the law and all it doesn't have to offer-and replaces it with grace and mercy.

Imagine if you would if when a group of hippies asked Pastor Chuck years ago to lead worship, if he had said no. Or balked when they showed up with drums and guitars! Where would Christian praise and worship music be if churches still paid their organist, instead of letting the spirit flow through musicians, just like in Psalm 150? Where would the ministry of Calvary Chapel and so many other churches be if they followed the rule, and not the spirit? Would Miles be our pastor if someone told him he was to young, or hadn't gone to seminary? What if someone told Herb Shreve to stick to his pulpit, bikes and bikers are dirty and need to clean up their act before they can attend their church? What, no CMA! Explain to all the bikers saved and ministered to about the law-they will show you the spirit-in action, it's called love.

What if a Prendergast told Fred Z. you're to short to ride, and besides you have red hair, or used to? Explain to the BFC members and those at Biker Church what laws they have broken in serving God? And I could go on and on with friends like Josh, Dave, Father Al-just stay with Catholics, leave the non-Catholics to their own kind, forget unity in the spirit, and even Pastor Mark-you're from Jersey, nothing good comes out of there. But due to a relationship with Jesus Christ, and following the spirit, their lives have meaning, and a joy not found in happiness. The common denominator is Jesus.

There is an old saying that says good fences make good neighbors. They also make good evangelists, pastors, worship leaders, and ministers. Follow the vision that God has given you, and let the spirit guide you. And God will surpass all your expectations. And if a Prendergast crosses your path, give them what God has given you-love in the form of grace and mercy.

And if you happen to get a new refrigerator, call me-and don't throw away the box. There are a whole lot of kids in my peer group just looking for new fort-with one rule-you gotta be over 50! After all, we can't let the kids have all the fun!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

roads of future past

It was the best of road, and it was the worst of road, and sometimes you couldn't tell which was which. The road I talk of is Route 22 in New Jersey, most notably the 40 miles between Scotch Plains and Easton. A road that in the 1960's was the busiest road in the US before I-78 by passed it. Nationally referred to as the worst road in the US, it did its best to earn and keep this distinction. A road known for big trucks, potholes, big trucks, traffic jams, big trucks, and all kinds of urban blight. A testimony to poor planning, too many lights, way too many trucks, and a testimony to fast food-and good food, not just chains. It was comic fodder for anyone from Saturday Night Live to Jean Shepherd and everyone in between. And yet, it is one of my favorite roads, go figure. With only five curves in the entire 40 miles, it seems out of place in my list of favorites, but not all roads are as memorable-just prettier. And with less potholes.

Starting in Scotch Plains, and heading west to my grandparents house, I cannot say how many trips I ever made on this road in 55 years. Starting on the the intersection of Terrill Road and 22, used to be a driving range until 1969, with a windmill and a gravel parking lot. Remember when parking lots were gravel, and you think they are difficult now? Heading west you passed Two Guys From Harrison, a post WWII department store, now something else, but just as low class. Further up as you pass Home Owners Haven, since the 1950's an iconic building supply, you enter into North Plainfield, and past the high school football field where Billy Disch, the Wildman, played half back-until he got his first motorcycle, a 1972 Mach 3, then his priorities changed as he rode with Bill and me. Travel a few more miles and you can see what remains of the Steer Inn, the first 15 cent hamburger drive-in I can remember. It predated McDonalds in our area, it was 1969 until we got one in my town, and you guessed it, it was on Route 22! Passing Ebers, where my grandparents bought their patio furniture, while sitting at a light you can see the orange roof of Howard Johnson's. We didn't call it HoJo's then, but it has a lasting memory to my family. While driving past there, we saw a naked man sitting on the balcony, and every time we went by, we looked for him again. And giggled. Such things just weren't normal 40 years ago. Past Great Eastern, a Two Guys competitor, where my mother went and bought me three eight tracks when I had my tonsils out-Allman Brothers Live at the Fillmore, Who's Next?, and Hendrix Band of Gypsies, all for $10. Was your mother ever that cool, glad mine was-although we would never admit it.

Stop and have a Texas wiener with chili, grilled foot long Schickhaus franks that snap when you bite into them. As the traffic starts to thin out, you go past vestiges of old bowling alleys and motels, diners and empty buildings with a strong 1950's flavor, not quite Googie, now reduced to suburban blight as the city moves west. And in Bridgewater you start to see bucolic, open areas, and once past the State Police Barracks-always sounded like a Gestapo hangout-to us it was, you see on the right-Ethicon. The home office complex of Johnson and Johnson, built much like Bell Labs, open, not up. A huge facility-campus like, a group of white buildings, with pretty blue windows, simple yet business like, what you would expect from a medical manufacturer, all surrounded by acres of green grass-purity and beauty. As you enter Hunterdon county-big bucks, you pass by what used to be the Whitehouse Inn-which to me always looked like the inn on Holiday Inn. I could see Bing Crosby singing there, and I imagined us eating by the hearth, in a snow storm. And the only time we stopped was in one, and they were closed due to the weather-a memory better of left in my dreams. As was the Polar Cub, passing it for 50 years and never stopped for a cone-next time, I promise.

Past Miller's Tavern, since the 1700's, then as you approach Clinton, and up Jugtown Mountain. Not much traffic anymore, and remains of old restaurants, and truck stops that were welcome to weary travelers. Buildings not torn down or property sold, just left fallow hoping that it would someday return to usefulness, resting and rusting like so much of the road. And as you go down on the other side, encounter the first turn in the road, one of five on our trip. Picking up the interstate-they aren't called freeways back there, you come to the intersection of SR57, and the Key Diner, where we used to meet my Grandpa, who worked across the street at Ingersoll. And then later the Turnaround Diner, where he and his carpooling friend Leo would meet us. Now a Burger King. Really miss that cool neon sign. And finally past Phillipsburg High School, and its football field. Collegiate looking, my friend Hopi was also a halfback there, how times change-and then it is decision time. New bridge, built in 1937 and used to cost a dime, or take the old bridge into Easton, built in the 1890's, and go past Jimmies'-an icon that moved across the river-and took its customers long with it. For me, four with everything-best hotdogs you'll ever eat. And at that point, say goodbye to Jersey, and our trip down memory lane.

And as I look back, I also look ahead to future memories. And find that as important as the road is, it is having Jesus with me when I travel it that makes the new memories precious. And I have found a great way to travel, and also to live when I am not travelling. It is called communion, but goes beyond the bread and cup. Jesus said "do these things in remembrance of me," and we do. But I think He wanted to take it far beyond just a monthly ritual. He wants our relationship more personal. So I find that when I live my life in remembrance of Him, the times are glorious. When riding, remembering Him keeps Him my riding partner. Thinking of Him during the day, keeps Him my friend. At work, school, riding, and sleeping-live your life with Him, as if He is there-which He is. And watch as your attitude changes, and then your actions-and then people's reactions. Greet people thinking of Him. Shop as if He is with you. Converse as if He is there, and soon you find Him the focal point of all you do-and living your life with Him-remembering Him. And He is alive, just like talking with my kids and wife, and we make new memories together. We have communion, and it is personal, intimate, fun and funny, and a great way to live. You and God. And when I do take communion, it is that much more special, a time just with Him and me, away from the world.

If your memories don't include Him, He allows U-turns. And you can also get off the road you are on at the next exit-He's everywhere. And He wants to spend time with you. And has a great future of memories ahead that He wants to share with you. You see as important as the road you are on is, it is more important who you travel with. Ride with Jesus. He knows the best places to eat, and can even take a seemingly mundane road like Route 22 and turn it into precious memories. Not enough memories, just add more Jesus. Let Him open the scrapbook of your heart and go places you never knew existed-ending in one you can't imagine-heaven.

So when you do anything-do it in remembrance of Him. Whether on Route 22, or the privacy of your den, He wants to spend time with you. Invite Him along, and watch as you see what true communion is all about-spending time with the one who loves you so much He died for you. And now wants to live with you.

Route 22 may just be another road, but to me is filled with precious memories. Don't let religion make Jesus just another Sunday affair-make Him the focus of your life, and watch as you do all things in remembrance of Him, that the blessings multiply. Live life remembering Him in all things, and you will find He remembers you too. You can never have too many friends, or time to ride, and you will never have a friend better than Jesus. A special communion that doesn't need cup or bread, just your heart and a willingness to know Him better.

Memories anyone? Your future is loaded with them, in Jesus. Live life in remembrance of Him.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

running the truth on God's dyno

As I visit with other pastors and those who minister, a common theme lately is we comment that we never know who is listening. And we don't, and as Christians we should care more about what people see in us and how we react to situations. And because they also listen to our words, we should choose them carefully-as they can lead someone to salvation-or to heresies that sound good, but lead to destruction.

I enjoy bench racing. I love to hear the stories of trips taken, bikes ridden, and 3000 calorie meals eaten. And inevitably the conversation turns to speed. Listening yesterday to a man tell of how his custom Harley engine was so fast it would spin his rear wheel-he thought his clutch was slipping, made me look at his rear tire. It was bald-not in the middle like it should be from spinning, but worn out altogether. And I laughed to myself, just like I do about the 150mph Sportster in Maryland. A legend in his own mind, and to the gullible and unknowledgeable who fall for it. It also made me reflect on another guy I know who after dumping thousands in his Road Glide, it would only do 115 on the speedo-I know I rode it. Downhill, to achieve that speed, something the Daytona I rode would do in third gear, with three speeds left to go! And lastly I talked to a man who had put a 250 series tire on his bike to increase handling. When I questioned it, he explained that even after lowering the bike by 2", he never ground anything, and used all the tire tread, so it must be handling better. Note-the tread was so wide it was flat on the ground, not curved like other tires. While parked it was using all the tread. This guy was good, and confused. If that were true why don't superbike racers use them? And having ridden bikes with a 250 series rear tire can attest to the fact they are harder to steer. I wondered what he had been riding before, or if he ever leaned his bike more than putting it on the side stand. I walked away-as it can be dangerous waking up a sleepwalker-or sleeprider.

And I can go on with other tales, just as suspicious. Or at least questionable. You see I know people who race, who design header systems, who build world land speed engines and bikes-all industry recognized for their successes, so when I want to know I ask them. And they assure of what is-what happens on the dyno, and what type of power can be made, and better yet what it takes to make it. And I find that 125 on the speedo can be as low as 100mph on the street-and how Trophy trucks can only run 140 in the dirt due to tire slippage, while the same engine in a NASCAR racer will do over 200! I learned that a wider tire makes it harder to steer-I can attest to that myself! And I can attest to going 136, clocked by VASCAR, and have been 155mph on my FJ1100, ran into rev limiter in fifth, and per Yamaha the bike is speed governed to 155! Go with the truth-because some day you may be challenged by someone who knows, and you can and will look ridiculous. Don't ask how I know that-I do! On the track, or on the street, when called to prove your claim-there will always be someone faster, just looking for someone not as bright, and definitely not as fast to take advantage of. Best not bring your pink slip, or you could be taking the loser cruiser home.

The same is true with Christians. Speak the truth, not some opinions. Every once in a while a new book comes out, and when praised by the secular media, the Christians flock to it. Not realizing that even though it is Oprah approved, it is heresy. It's a best seller, must be true. But never asking that question. And then not content to follow this lie themselves, recommend it to others-who may be weaker in the faith and find a kind of false truth among its lies. Such books are out there, and the emerging church-New Age in a different label is out to steal souls. That's Satan's agenda. Sounds good, but goes against scripture. And beware of so called Christian bookstores, as even I have found a Berean bookstore who has an emerging church section. This manure has no place in a Christian's life, and where being shutdown by someone faster may cause embarrassment, these lies can have eternal consequences.

So God has devoted much of the New Testament to warnings against false teachers, that is exactly who writes these books. And He tells us in 1John 4:1 to test the spirits to see if they are of God. God loves us to test Him, so He can prove Himself. And recently when I received an e-mail, recommending a book that has been universally panned by Christians, and tries to substantiate it-I take exception. You see, that person may be saved, but in saying it is OK to read this book that denies the deity of Jesus, who refers to God as genderless, who soft pedals sin to the point of saying there is none, and saying God will make Himself like us-we as Christians need to stand up and say enough. And then tries to substantiate it by saying it is 90% accurate, makes me question anything else he says. His witness is damaged by not telling the truth. I have tried to address this brother in love, and hope he repents-this is dangerous stuff. And if he doesn't, move on away from him, as he is living in sin. He is spreading lies, not gospel. He is like God says, a dog returning to his own vomit, and also warns of a millstone being placed around his neck. Think of the Mob and concrete shoes-no thanks. So test the spirits-and ask of God-He will guide you.

And I do this risking censure from other well meaning, but ignorant ones who spread lies from time to time. I have been called unteachable, because I trust God's word, and not their fairy tales. I have lost friends, and fellowship because of staring down a lie-only to see the destruction continue until they move onto another group, leaving behind hurt, confused, and lost souls-who because of being allowed to believe a lie are hurt. Relationships severed because no one challenged them in the truth. No one loved them enough to tell them that they were being lied to. Don't want to hurt their feelings. We need more men and women of God to take stands for the truth, and let God reveal the truth to them, as He does to us. For He stands with us, we are not alone. It is called love-if others can do it for a lie, we should be able to do it for the truth.

And never say "Mike says." I will state opinions about bikes, food, and trips, sometimes just to get a rise out of someone-but when it comes to God only the word is acceptable. Go to it-and if I am wrong, call me aside and show me-If I have a fear it is of a millstone for leading someone astray. But if I am right, continue to pray for me, so I can have wisdom when needed. "God says" is a much better person to quote. It is written...

And if you have questionable books in your house, get rid of them. They are dangerous-rip them up and throw them away so that no one else gets their hands on them. Be trusting only of God, not what man says. As a servant of God I love being questioned, as does any teacher or pastor. And so does God, so ask Him, and He will answer you. But be prepared for His answer to be different than your feelings, or desires, or even denominational doctrines-which often run in opposition to God's word. Get out and love someone, and listen to their words. They are listening to yours. So speak the truth.

And if you happen to be going over 100 mph and pass me, with your rear tire spinning out of control, using all of the tread available-don't lean on me-but lean on Jesus! He is the only thing under control in your life at that time! And when it comes to the truth, remember He is the truth-and will set you free.

Want to go fast-talk to someone who has. Want to go racing, hang with racers-those who win. And if you want to know Jesus, hang with Christians, and ignore the world's input. Oprah may be a wiz on TV, but knows nothing about salvation. Test the spirits-the life it saves may be your own!

The final exam of life is who do you say Jesus is? Thou art the Lord, the true son of God is the correct answer. And God's reply-well done my good an faithful servant. See you in heaven-if not I know why.

love with truth and compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

prayer/praise requests-with love from me to you

Dave and I were talking at church last night about how blessed we are. And also how God does so many things in our lives just because He loves us. And how when we turn our hearts to Him, He uses us to bless others. You see we are nothing special-both without incomes, but working for a God who loves us and meets all our needs. So I want to thank Him again publicly, and share some of the great things He has included me in this year. This is not one of those sickening letters people insist on sending out every year telling how great their lives are, but a true testimony to God. Give Him the glory-believe me, He can do all things without me if He chooses.

We started out the year with only Theresa working, me on unemployment making less per week than I used to make a day, and with Brandon living with us. His own family would not take him in, and he was living in a tent in back of Home Depot. He stayed with us a while, and was getting himself back on his feet, but needs prayer, as the world's grip on him has pulled him back into it. Pray for him and his daughter Hailey, and also Hailey's mom, who is not Brandon's girlfriend. She needs Jesus.

David Hammond went to be with the Lord this year, while riding- a heart attack not an accident, we always joked about me doing his eulogy-which I got to do before 300+ bikers at his church. Thanks to Pastor Jim for letting all these bikers into his church-if you are looking for a church home, these guys are right on. Keep Sally and the girls in prayers, as they miss David, and so do I. You won David, but I'm coming soon.

I was hit in my first motorcycle accident on March 24, then hit again on October 17, my poor Bonneville! And due to sloppy police reporting had to vindicate myself-she hit me, not like the wretched cop reported. Using Blaine's contacts, I met Dana Ray, who investigated the accident himself, and found the only way it could have happened was how I said it did. Vindicated-but still limping, my poor Bonneville repaired though. And pray for Dana, as he has taken early retirement due to falling from a ladder-and damaging both ankles.

I met Richard, one of the inmates I write too each week with the same devotions you read, and we have become friends-he calls me his mentor, I hate that term, I am just his friend, but have seen him grow in the Lord, and we were blessed to have him with us on Christmas. Keep him in prayer as he adjusts after 11 years in prison, has started his own cleaning business, and grows in the Lord. By the way, I started out with 19 inmates receiving my devotions, and using them to start Bible studies or prayer circles-down to 14 now as they are getting out. One man, John Dooley, has been moved to 5 or 6 different prisons this year, and at each location starts a Bible study-leaving the study he started in God's hands and with someone who God has raised up. From death row at Chowchilla, to seven other institutions, these men and woman are finding the answer to their lives is Jesus Christ. Even a few of them are using the song sheets and Bible studies I send from my men's study-although behind bars they study each week with us-free in the spirit. And my senior study group sends cards and letters to each of them. The blessings when we hear back bring many tears to our eyes-all family, just with different mothers, but the same savior-Jesus! And yes, only Ken Pilbin can tell how many gray hairs I have given him-not all are hereditary!

I was able to visit with an old girl friend in NJ, and spent a day with her family. Keep Larry and Cheryl in prayer for salivation, and also for healing as he has cancer. God is not done with them yet, such is His love. I also got to visit with my parents, between flash floods, water got as high as my tank back on the Tiger-about 34",and had the best time. And then Theresa and I were able to visit Frank and Kendyl in Oregon. Although our roots are in motorcycle ministry, God allows us to minister to so many others. And travel via bike to 25 states and over 30,000 miles this year. Blessing and being blessed-it truly is all about Jesus.

I could go on about my second accident-just pray for Beverly, or about the two other men we had stay with us, pray for Rob and Brent. I could tell how God has sustained us without any income except for Theresa's, but instead I rather point to Jesus-who takes care of all these things. He has given us a peace that surpasses understanding, and a group of friends to keep us encouraged. To our church and staff-thanks for encouraging us outside of the dove. And in it.

And for those who still wish to do battle with us, we pray for you even more-as if you wish to become our enemy, we turn you over to God. We wish you peace, comfort, salvation, and all the blessings you can handle. And keep me in your prayers, also. We all serve the same great God, let's show the world our unity in the spirit-the Holy Spirit! May the next time we meet, we are able to reconcile in Christ! I hold no grudges or ill will to anyone-I pray you get over it too!

Keep my sons in prayer as each one has had a motorcycle accident this year-we may limp a little, but we still ride-the testimonies continue. I could go on about the kindnesses of the Black Sheep, and our CMA friends, Fred and our friends at BFC and Biker Church, and our church family-but then it might sound like one of those letters I find so distasteful, so I will leave it with this-I love each one of you for who you are-and pray that God blesses you even more in 2010. Be open to Him, and watch the blessings explode in your lives as Jesus uses you to change hearts, feed, clothe, visit, and love on others. Workers needed, but for those of us called, there is plenty of work, and no job shortages. Apply now-just ask Jesus, how can I help, and then get ready for the time of your life.

John ends his gospel saying that if all things that Jesus did were written down, no library could hold them, and now I understand better-as my library of testimonies increases, I find I am out of room.

We love each and every one of you-how can we be of assistance to you? Always praying, and read to serve, we wait. Maranatha-He is coming soon! Be ready!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

well done my good and faithful servant

This is a story of two men, one you may know the name, and one I am sure you don't know. Two men, performance driven, from different worlds, but sharing a common goal, being driven by perfection. Both winners in the world's eyes, but losers in life. My friend Bouke was the fastest rider we knew. At all the bike shops, and races, he was well known. In fact, when he didn't win, it was news-he was that good. On the street he had a reputation for having the fastest bike, and if for some reason he lost-rare, or when a faster model came out, he would sell it and build another. In the early 70's this meant H1's, H2's, and when I last saw him had an early Yoshimura Z-1. I remember riding the Z-1, and it was scary fast-no one except Triumph understood handling, and we would joke about the bike being hinged in the middle. No chassis could handle all that power! But to Bouke, this only meant riding faster, pushing the bike well past its limits, and a great, yet narrow focused ride for the next owner when he sold it and started on his next project. We would be out, and he would point to a bike, saying "that one used to be mine-it was real fast." And then looking at the nerdy kid who had the price of admission-money, to own it, with not enough talent to ride it like Bouke, and never being able to enjoy its potential., would feel bad for the bike. A thoroughbred now hauling a cart. But he had bragging rights to what he owned, even if he never could ride it like Bouke. And that, the bike, would gain him admiration among his friends. We used to go to the local McDonald's, and even pulling in, the lot would empty-hot rods, muscle cars, and bikes. He was that fast! But with all that talent came a curse-for he never found a bike fast enough for him, or one that he hadn't used up all its potential. You never heard the words too fast come from his mouth, only I want to go faster-and so he did.

When Theresa and I are asked, "do you camp?" we always reply "Camp Marriot." At the end of a day's riding, we enjoy the hot tub, showers, and comfy beds awaiting. And for years, when we could afford it, always stayed at Marriott's-confession, my son worked for them and we got a great discount! J. Willard Marriot was a man driven by perfection. Starting his Hot Shoppes during the depression, they grew into a huge business, that among other things made him the first company to sell hot meals to the airlines. He was a control freak, and expected perfection from himself, and his employees. He treated them well, but was always looking for a better way. From a consumer stand point this is great, but it exacts a price to those you call family. Watching his sons being interviewed, they told of how their father never once told them they did a good job. No matter how hard they tried, they always fell short. And as their dad explained, his father never told him good job, and look how he turned out. The one thing they both admitted they needed, and wanted, they had been denied. Like McCartney wrote, "something inside that was always denied for so many years..." Which shows up the lack of love that a performance based relationship has. He was a Mormon, and believed his good works would get him to heaven, neglecting the true Jesus of the Bible and substituting a lie for the truth. Who needs love-I've got a record to fall back on. Yet it was never enough for him, sadly passing this heresy on to his kids. In the world's eyes they had it all, but to his kids, they lacked the love that only a father can give to his children. And in the endless pursuit to please God, which you can't do by your actions, they were miserable inside. But then not knowing God will do that to you. And the world won't get you to heaven.

God loves us all equally-sinner and saved. If He didn't, He would not have sent Jesus to die so we could be reunited with Him-for we are sinners and fell away-not Him. His salvation is found in grace through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ-no other way. You cannot make God love you more-so give it up! And start enjoying the relationship that He has for you.

And for you stuck in the false religion of a works based salvation-trust God. Pick up your Bible and read Ephesians 2. There is 10 short verses the gospel is presented simply. But that is your choice. So if you rather live your life wondering if you will be good enough to get to heaven, you won't-you cannot be. Because without grace you aren't. If you live your life, hoping God marks on a curve, based on your performance, you may do ok until a J. Willard comes along, and then you are relegated to second place. Or you may be pretty talented until Bouke blows your doors off. Try explaining that gospel to someone. "Yeah, God loves you, and if you're pretty good you may see heaven, but there are those who are better, and they will get to heaven before me-I just don't know if I will." And just how good would be good enough? Yeah-that's how I want to live my life, aren't you glad God's way is better?

You see Bouke had to get old, and some new faster kid would come along-and start a new legend. For in his day, he was the fastest-but where is he now? And as some pundit put it years ago-you are only as good as your last game. I don't know about you, but for every winner there has to be a loser. With a bad last game. I don't want to wonder if I am getting to heaven based on my record, I rather do it based on Jesus' record. And if you like, His last game-on the cross! Total victory-and since I am part of the team I go with Him-I won! And just like hanging with Bouke, I got to meet the fastest guys, see the coolest rides, and meet the prettiest girls. Being part of the team still counts! Even if you aren't the best! You still win with Jesus!

Today I still like to stay at Marriots-they are among the best hotel chains available. But I find that the price he and his family paid for their success, and eventual defeat, far too high for me. So now I stay in places like the Melody Ranch Motel, and meet the owner-humble and simply caring about his guests. I get a good night sleep for half the price, and hope that the owners install the same high principals that J. Willard did, with one exception-love.

If you haven't told your kids you love them lately, call them and make their day. Tell your wife, and watch her attitude change-maybe from one of what does he want, to one of what can I do for him. Love is like that, it must be shared, and actions speak louder than words, but the words are still nice to hear.

To my wife and kids, I love you. And it's a good thing about grace, because I know all about you. And I'm reminded that God knows all about me. Now that is a strong argument for grace if I ever heard one. Grace, mixed with mercy-a performance that no performance can ever beat. At any speed, on any ride, no matter where you lay your head.

In a world of winners and losers, don't go by the specs, go by the person. And make that person Jesus Christ. Only in Him will you realize your potential-the potential to be blessed far beyond what any man or motorcycle can offer.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

who said it's only a game?

While channel surfing yesterday, came upon a gem on the MLB channel, Major League Baseball. It took me back 40 years to 1969, a year of great dichotomies. A year where man walked on the moon, but also gathered at Woodstock. A year when the Manson Family brought fear to the LA area by their brutal murders, and also the year the Jets won the Super Bowl. All events changing lives forever. But it was in the fall, October 16th, to be exact, that baseball changed forever, and with it the lives of many die hard National League fans. For on that date, the NY Mets won the World Series. A team that had lost 89 games the year before, who had never had a winning season, and were 100-to-1 odds to even be in it, won it!

On a team in the past with the lovable likes of Pumpsie Green, Felix "Wrong Way" Mantilla, Choo Choo Coleman, Marvelous Marv Throneberry, and two Bob Millers-both pitchers, one L and one R, had put together a team that did it. They had come a long way from Al Jackson, the game, little left hander from Waco, Texas!Managed by Gil Hodges, Brooklyn Dodger great first baseman, and local hero, he told them in spring training they were a championship team, and that sometime during the year they would surface and become one. A team who won 40 games its first year, a team that only once had risen to ninth place-a championship team?

Maybe not in the standings, but definitely in the fans hearts. For their across the river rivals, the Yankees, seemed to never lose, yet the Mets outdrew them in attendance every year. A lovable team, who's fans knew and loved them. We knew that Jerry Grote was from Texas. Tom Seaver was from Southern Cal-you could always pick out his wife Nancy in the stands. Joan Hodges was Gil's wife, and they were all like friends to us Met fans. But this year was different-at least it didn't start out that way.

Playing the expansion team, the Expos, they had a chance to win their first season opener ever, and lost. And wallowed in the second division until June-when they won 10 games straight. Gil's prophecy was about to begin. Who could forget Tom "Terrific" Seaver's one hitter against the Cubs putting them in first place in August? A team that once it got the fever, kept it-and the fans went nuts. They were 28-5 down the stretch at home, and were 28-11 the last two months. "Break up the Mets" was heard, as no one had seen them play ball like this before. And so it was fitting, that after sweeping the Braves in the playoffs, they would come up against the Baltimore Orioles- a team that had won over 100 games that season. And beat them 4 games to 1 in the World Series.

And watching that game I remembered Joan Payson, the owner and first lady of the Mets, who always sat in her box by the dugout-with the fans. Pearl Bailey, Louis Armstrong, Averill Harriman, Skitch Henderson, and Connie Francis were all Met fans. As were the countless millions who were vindicated that day. Warren Giles, National League president, claimed it was the best World Series ever, and to top it off, they won it on Mr. Payson's birthday. What a gift! The day we had waited for, and thought impossible had happened. The Amazins' had become the Miracle Mets! The World Champs!

More than followers, and more than fans, we stayed with them through the highs and lows-peaks and valleys as the Bible calls them. You see true Christians, stay with Jesus in good and bad times. he gets us through, and we are not just followers, but friends, as He calls us. We know Him intimately, like we did our Mets, and are familiar with Him. We know Him, not just about Him. It is a relationship. And in the family, rich or poor, tall or short, left or right throwing, we are all equal. We all rejoice when someone is saved, and all weep when an injustice is done. But we are always with Jesus, and after trials and tribulations, enjoy the thrill of victory even more. You see when the Mets were losing, we were made fun of, but when they were winning, everyone wanted to be a Met fan. But we could tell the wannabes from those whose heart was Met blue and gold-just like Jesus can tell the sheep from the goats. Our hearts and lives are sold out to Him-and we are His. A precious relationship-win or lose, that when we die we win! And even though we don't win every game, we stay with Him, as He guides us through the day.

The 1969 Mets were described as being able to do ordinary things in an extra-ordinary way, and extra-ordinary things in an ordinary way. Sounds like Jesus-miracles abound when He is in your life, and sometimes they become so commonplace you forget the love in them. But He doesn't, and gently reminds us-it is called grace-unmerited favor. Sounds like the Mets season that year. Like Met fans He never leaves us or forsakes us.

You can walk like winners everyday, no matter the score, with Jesus. Losing streaks will end-they are really times of testimony building, and winning streaks extend way past the end of the season. Today join a team where its members are loved, and where we worship and rejoice together. Christians-let's all unite under the banner of Jesus-and even though we worship at different denominations, let's keep the main thing the main thing-Jesus. For just like in baseball, fundamentals still count the most.

Did you know Ed Charles, the Glider had been in the leagues for 18 years, and never a champion? And Jerry Koosman was from Appleton, WI? That Tommie Agee and Willie Mays are both from the same town in Alabama? Or that Davey Johnson made the last out, the same Davey Johnson who would manage the Mets to their next World Series Championship in 1986? Met fans do. Can you tell me where Jesus was born, and where He resides now? That the Bible contains 66 books by 40 authors, written over 4000 years, inspired by the same God? Christians can-join the team, no tryouts needed! Let's Go Mets!

And as always-let's go with Jesus! A champion every year, in every league.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

it's all about the birth, not the birthday

Every once in a while our government screws up and does something that really is a benefit to its citizens, well at least to its bikers. Years ago they moved certain holidays to Mondays, creating three day weekends, giving us another day to ride farther, eat more, and spend time on the road. And I for one am thankful for it. It has turned many 'what are you gonna do weekends' into 1000 mile memories, which never can be bad. And they were smart enough to let Christmas stay on the 25th, no matter what, and Thanksgiving be on a Thursday, creating a five day holiday for those so blessed. Hey, they even left Independence Day on July 4th, we need to rehire these guys!

But in making the change, they had to reorganize, and some I don't agree with. Martin Luther King, George Washington, and Abraham Lincoln's birthdays don't get celebrated on their real date, but changed to Mondays. And in the case of Abe and George, lose their personalness by being renamed President's Day. Here, two of the arguably best presidents we ever had, and we erase their names. And also Memorial Day isn't on the 30th of May. Somehow it isn't the same with the Indy 500 moving around, and breaking tradition. I mean how would you feel if your birthday was changed for convenience, for a people who didn't know or even care about you outside of getting a paid day off? Mike Mohn's birthday, what are your plans this year? You got three days, where can we go? Hint-it's in May and the weather is usually great to ride in. And feel free to rename it Let's Go Riding Day. But I think you get the idea. We lose something to our selfish indulgences. Great men, great memories, but somehow the luster of the reason to celebrate is lost.

Only one man in history, Jesus Christ, was born a king. He wasn't elected, named, had no coronation, or victory lap when He became king. Didn't walk up from the White House and there wasn't media coverage. Didn't need it. For true love-which He is, doesn't call attention to itself. He is king, and was born king-while laying in a manger He was king, and we should not forget that. And that is why we celebrate His birth, not His birthday, on December 25th. Sorry atheists and ACLU, we know that wasn't the day he was born, but thanks for recognizing who He is, despite your hatred for Him. Curious, what part of love and freedom don't you agree with, and why does He scare you? You see as Christians we celebrate Him daily by our living for Him. We need no special day, for everyday in Him is special. But the world has chosen one day, to recognize Him internationally, and so we do. Even the ACLU takes the day off. Talk about hypocrisy. And we eternally will celebrate with Him, for His kingdom exceeded death, and this world-for eternity and in heaven. No other king can lay claim to that. Or promise it and guarantee it.

Changing the day we celebrate George and Abe, and Marty doesn't change who they are, or why we celebrate them. Include Jesus in that list-it isn't the day, but the person. And no other person has ever been or will ever be King of Kings, Lord of Lords-wonderful, counselor, Prince of Peace, Son of man, and the Son of God. Our Lord and Savior-Jesus Christ, the only begotten son of God. God incarnate, savior, master. You see, with all the names given Him, we should celebrate everyday-for He is all of them. The Alpha and the Omega-the great shepherd! Who else deserves the title-and then went on to earn it? Just a baby in a manger-no way. A king holding court with those who loved and adored Him, not knowing what He would grow up to be, but realizing His royalty. Wise men from afar bringing gifts-gold for His royalty, frankincense for His priesthood, and myrrh-recognizing His death that would bring life. Wrapped in swaddling clothes-strips of cloth that were used to wrap the corpses in-God showing at His birth what He would do ultimately for us as King.

Do you worship Him in your life? Wise men still seek Him. And He is the reason for the Season. There are no Holy Days or holidays without Him, certainly no happiness.

Happy Birthday Jesus! Whether December 25th or June 15th-all hail the King of Kings. A gift from God-to remind us that it is better to give than receive. So when you give gifts this year, remember this is a tradition God started 2000 years ago, when He gave His only son, and give with love-wishing the receiver Merry Christmas! Because it is! Just may start a whole new tradition, or reinforce an old one. Imagine that, an atheist following a Godly tradition. Ignorantly. Fits them perfectly!

Be good to yourself and others-and Merry Christmas! Jesus Christ, the gift that never stops giving!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com