first time your fault, second time mine

It has been almost 20 years, but the lessons learned that day still remind me of why I don't camp-or boat. And why I prefer two wheels to four wheels, or no wheels and a keel. A couple from the church we attended invited us to go to the river with them. Looking to meet other couples-they had two kids like us, we decided to accept their invitation to a weekend at the river. They had all the camping equipment, and a boat, and Theresa jumped at the idea of water skiing. So we packed what we needed, and I would ride out and meet them after work. Theresa and the boys would ride out in their van, and even I was excited. At least I got to ride.

I arrived just as it was getting dark, and was starved. Grilled anything sounded good, and I could smell the fish, burgers, and chicken grilling as I looked for our campsite. Unfortunately, this was the best part of the night-looking. Robert had parked his van so that it was on a hill, but left it in neutral, why no one knows, and it had rolled into a neighboring camper. The scooters they brought-locked onto the front of the camper, were there to stay-he forgot the key to the lock to remove them. The campsite was good for them, they were in the camper. But they had pitched the tent-our torture chamber on gravel. Well, that's unfair to gravel. It was pieces of sidewalk that had been jack hammered. Gravel would have been deluxe accommodations. And of course starving, I asked what was for dinner. Sandwiches. Huh? After all the aromatic temptations before me, after 200 miles of riding starved with visions of BBQ dancing in my head, I was given a bologna sandwich-on white. And some disgusting chips.

At least there would be S'mores-I could eat the graham crackers. As Theresa's favorite three course meal, chocolate, marshmallow, and graham cracker, she was starved too. And the kids were anxious, and then disappointed when we each were handed a 1/4 piece of a S'more. Not enough to even leave a taste in my mouth. So with a headache from hunger, miles from a 7-11, and listening to my family grumble-we went to bed early-tired enough that at least for a couple hours sleeping on the broken sidewalk chips didn't matter. Did I mention, no munchies, they also were in charge of food!

Up early the next day, on the water by 6am, we headed for breakfast. In their boat. Now I don't do water, so I asked what do you want me to do? Sit in the back, so I did. Raising the nose of the boat, but hey I was obeying orders. We stopped for breakfast-diner not open yet, so ate cupcakes, and Twinkies. Then back to the boat, where I resumed my position at the rear. Robert opened up the throttle and nothing happened-high rpms, but no movement. And sadly, it only occurred to me that I was the problem. We were stuck on a sandbar, and I was like an anchor-dead weight keeping us from moving. So while Robert is diagnosing the problem with the motor of the boat, and while my family is wondering when the torture will end, I silently sat up, and moved forward. At which point, the boat shot forward under full throttle, knocking everyone down, and sending my breakfast over the edge. I seriously considered mutiny, but my headache was so great, I got on my bike and rode home. Theresa and the boys stuck due to no transportation, but somehow got home that night.

Lessons learned. Don't ride with someone else-take your own car. Also, there are side effects to all actions. Just like the warnings on the drug commercials, there are side effect to your actions. We all meant well, just that stupid is not the way to travel, or camp, or boat, or.... And God knows this. So He set it up easy for us, or at least me. When in the spirit, you receive love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, long suffering, meekness, and self control as fruits of your labors. Stuck in the situation we never should have been in we experienced just the opposite. Bitterness, anger, stupidity, rudeness, long suffering-how did that get onto both lists?, selfishness, and being out of control. The side effects that can sometimes be more dangerous than the effects themselves. For we instantly learned why no one went camping with them for a second time, they had even commented on that, but they had no clue.

Today in your daily events, consider the other guy, and how your decisions will impact them. Do they reflect the fruit of the spirit, or are they rooted in selfishness? Do you obey God, or your desires? Are you still getting the same results because you are doing the same thing? The definition of insanity is doing the same thing, but expecting different results. The fruit you bear will influence others-be mindful of that. And be patient with others who don't get it. Remember Luke 3:8, produce fruit in keeping with repentance-good word for that day! And any day!

As for me and my family-we will ride motorcycles. Eat when and where we want. That is why we travel alone. And hopefully avoid my second trip to the river. Today you will bear fruit, by choosing the correct vine you will be assured the best of the crop. Jesus is that vine, and when we are wrapped into Him, we produce good fruit. And good fruit will produce more good fruit. Consider the other guy, as God considers you. Just might change the whole day-or at least the plans for it. Take note-the side effects may be right in front of you after all. And I think I understand long suffering-and why it is on both lists...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

letting the good times roll

When growing up, I'd like to think that I was as normal as any other kid. And that included hiding magazines under my bed-really between the mattress and box spring-so that my parents wouldn't find them. Not Playboy-I got that one, and not the car magazines. But the forbidden fruit in my magazine library was anything to do with motorcycles. While other kids were busy hiding various skin mags, I had to hide Cycle, Cycle Guide, Cycle World, and the various smaller trade mags that were popular. And while other teens dreamt of Playmate of the Month, I dreamt of Mach III's, Commandos, and CB750's. And was I ever a sucker for the ads.

Remember the Norton girls, always dressed in a skimpy, yet stylish outfit the same color as the bike? Who could resist fast girls and bikes? Harley showed us the Night Train, and ways out of town-even a mini-bike called the Shortster! Triumph told us we were enthusiasts, and needed their bikes to appreciate handling. You met the niciest people on a Honda-and in your wildest dreams, dreamt of a girl who loved bikes as much as you! Did you ever Solo Suzuki? I remember the ads on WABC radio, with Cousin Brucie, or HOA-Herb Oscar Anderson making motorcycle noises after the theme song. But for most of us, the thrill was in the words "some day," as my parent hated them, and I was still too young to get one and move out. So here I was stuck, noticing girls, who didn't like being noticed, and noticing motorcycles-two forbidden fruits. The fact that one older kid told us that riding was almost as good as sex, and you could do it more often, only made the illusion grander, as no one I knew had done either one. But after looking at the ads, girls would have to wait. Sadly, so did motorcycles.

I rode for about four years before my parents realized I was riding Ricky Schill's bikes. I guess they thought I was the world's oldest four year old, as I came home muddy, dirty, tired, and worn out-but excited every night. Getting my first bike as a senior in high school though finally elevated me to cool status. I had been a jock-now I could find a way to get out and enjoy life-and not have to deal with coaches, practice, rules, and locker room pranks. I had freedom-I was riding!

But the commandment-honor thy mother and thy father that your days shall be long bothered me-ok, only a few minutes after I got saved. Was I really disobeying them, and causing dishonor? Would it shorten my life? I love them, but loved to ride too-so took off riding, realizing that as parents they had a responsibility to love me no matter what. Try that one today! And I beleive God has honored my choice.

I found an out. The Bible tells parents that they are not to provoke their children to wrath! God was cool, He must love motorcycles, and He understood. And it was a good example of how many interpret the Bible. They search scripture, then find one that appelas to them, and then follow it. Just the opposite of what God wants, but that takes repentance. You see, we are supposed to change, not Him. We sinned, not Him. And we turned from Him, not Him from us. The truth is-we need to change to be like Him! Just like scripture says to do!

And reading the word like this, will change your life. You may get bogged down in Leviticus, but there is joy found in Jesus fulfilling all those laws. And a freedom in walking with Him, that comes close with riding, but won't get you into heaven, or forgiven. Sorry, but going into turn 3 too fast and beng scared and seeing God is not a spiritual experience. But giving your heart to God is. And watching as He changes your life, and fulfills desires in you-some you had, others he just told you about is exciting.

Maybe if the guy who wrote the Norton girl ads, did a Bible ad. Talk about sin and murder in Genesis. Talk about harlots in Joshua. Shipbuilding in Genesis. Kings, Chronicles, and Samuels tell some of the bloodiest war stories ever. Murder talked about in the four gospels, betrayal and lust, and finally Revelation-where you get it all! Science fiction has no chance against God's truth!

So to all you rebels out there. Sneak the Bible into your room tonite. Read it. And be bold, leave it out where your wife or parents can see it! Blow their mind by giving your heart to Jesus!

It's about time we took the word out of the bedroom and into the living room! You read what? You ride what? Jesus who? Jesus and motorcycles-it just don't get any better. Don't believe the ads-experience Jesus yourself. And read the book-before it becomes censored! Can't have all that sin in one book you know. The Bible-still the all time best seller. Just don't let your parents catch you!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

at times like these, the feature you can't see becomes perfectly obvious

There are few things worse than a broken machine. Whether it is a toaster that doesn't, a blender that won't or a cycle that doesn't cycle, machines are absolutely useless unless they work. And I always marvel when someone's bike won't start, how some genius in the crowd says "well it's either fuel or spark." Great, now if you were really smart you would know which one. We all know the procedure. Fuel is easy, on old Brit bikes tickle the carbs, when the gas runs out and soaks your shoe, it must be spark. Still not convinced, pull a fuel line to the tank-same result. After turning on the petcock, of course. And for the cool, slosh the tank with the cap off like Steve McQueen in the Great Escape, just before he jumped. And for you nerdy, open the cap, and light a match. If you get combustion, it could be be spark-or is it fuel, you got both!

My friend Rex back in the late 70's was rewriting the Suzuki tech manuals for them. He spent countless hours telling me how easy electricity was, and with each lesson I got stupider. He could not only repair, but knew the cause. For instance, one day in spring of 1981, we took off for Arches National Park in Utah. This would be the first long trip for my new 1981 KZ750, so I was excited. We rode for a couple hundred miles, and parked to take some pictures. And then my bike wouldn't start. New bike, new battery-no spark. But I had Rex, better than AAA. He had noticed my brake light not going off, and he surmised the rear brake pedal was adjusted wrong allowing the brake light to stay on, thus killing the battery. So we bump started the bike-this being the first year Kawasaki eliminated the kick starter on their street bikes, let it run for 15 minutes, adjusted the brake pedal, and all was well. But the amazing part was he knew that the alternator-that which charges the battery doesn't kick in until 2200rpm, so he set adjusted the idle up to that speed, and we all was fixed. Complaint-cause-correction, just like we were taught as good service advisors. Fixed. And I really miss him today!

It has been said, in cruder terms than I will use, that if it has a skirt or wheels it will give you trouble. To you Puritan types-anything manmade has a potential to fail. And it will. And it goes back to the garden. When Eve disobeyed God, and then brought Adam in the club, it altered the way things were done forever. No longer was the world perfect, but sin entered it, and in every aspect-fuel and spark included. Lights stayed on, or wouldn't light up, and we ran out of fuel-even though the gauge said we had some left. Imagine a sinless world, where Lucas electrics worked-no prince of darkness! Where you never went on reserve-and no little light came on to warn you of impending emptiness! No warning lights to inform us of impending doom if we don't obey, because we had obeyed. All this awaits us in heaven, but for now-we must endure a sin laden world. And one without a kick starter. So there are times we push.

And I look at things in a before kick starter, and after kick starter was removed attitude. BK vs. AK if you will. When we had kick starters, we always had a backup system to go to. Or parked on hill so we could bump start. We aren't that smart anymore. Now when you push the starter button, and nothing happens, and you can't bump start your bike because the fuel injection is electric, you sit and wait. And while some cuss while digging out their cell phone, which is hopefully charged, and within a cell area, others pray, and watch as God prepares a way out for you. And reminds you that anything man made will and can eventually fail. But that the answer is always found in Jesus. And it is your choice of how you handle the situation.

Living with Jesus is like riding with Rex, better than AAA, better than any worldly advice, and better than any religion. You see Rex was trying to diagnose and repair things the factory had failed on, where Jesus repairs things we fail in. Our bodies were perfect before sin came along, now they need maintenance, parts, regular service, and as we get older, more of the same. We need the fuel that only the Holy Spirit can provide to get us through the day, and the spark that only the love of a living God can provide. Gloomy-God will provide the spark. Depressed-he can kick start you back to health! Low on fuel or energy-He gives freely to all who ask. Lonely-He never deserts you. And when all seems lost-He will save you! REMEMBER-He created you, but sin led you away from Him. He knows how all the parts should fit, where they go, how they function, and what it takes to fuel your day, and give you the spark to make it all work! And unlike your missing kick starter, He is always there. The best way out in any situation! But like your battery, if not used often, will run down-not God, but your relationship with Him-and will need recharging-another free service of the gospel! And you are always under warranty in Him, and He is open 24/7. Just a prayer away!

See it really is easy-fuel or spark. But even easier is taking the yoke of Jesus. He says it is easy, won't wear us down, won't leave us stuck, and is available 24/7. No clubs to join, membership fees, or meeting to attend. And he even comes to you-right where you are. He is available NOW-so why don't you give your no start problem to Him, and watch as He changes the situation you are in. Experience tells us that each trip starts with the first step-so take that first step now-let Jesus into your life. Instead of good Lord it's morning, try Good morning Lord! Key on, fuel on, and Jesus in your life. Taking you places you want to go or never knew existed. And He rides, and even waits while you look for your keys. Jesus and motorcycles-it don't get any better, try Him and see!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

a tale of two rocks

Just got back from Easter break and spending five days on the road with Theresa. Great time. We were able to spend Easter at Steve Mays' church, with Reagan, Christopher and his girl friend Jen. And then we ate great BBQ at Baby Blues BBQ, as seen on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives. Great food, great fellowship, and a great message from Steve. Then on to our destination in Santa Paula. But along the way we stopped at the Rock Store, a motorcycle hangout for the last 40 years. Attendance was down this Sunday, probably because of Easter, and because we arrived late. But the people we met made up in quality despite the lack of quantity.

Usually when out on a press bike, people will spot the Georgia tags, and ask "did you ride from there?" But among this group they noticed they were manufacturer plates, and they approach you differently. And the mix of people we met that day was say, eclectic. When we pulled in, Theresa on her Bonneville, and me on a 2010 Rocket III Roadster(1 of 4 in the country), someone on a 636 Ninja was doing a burnout-front brake on and smoking the tire. After parking she pulled up next to me, and asked her friends how she was doing. How the cycle scene has changed! We parked next to a long wheelbase Hayabusa, obviously more machine than its owner. A young guy came up and was asking Theresa about the Rocket, and was impressed by it being a press bike. He had only learned to ride six months before, and wanted to write about his adventures-you go guy! And was very knowledgeable about the bike, and others he talked about. Even asking if he could take a picture of it. Much different from the two others trying to impress me, one on a Speed Triple-a 2007 with 6000 miles-yeah he rides, and was telling me all about his friends at Triumph trying to impress me. The only thing that impressed me was I had never heard any of the names before. Oh well, I just ride their press bikes... A new BMW S1000 pulled in, we had seen him at an unscheduled pit stop to relieve ourselves of too much diet Coke, and when asked if he ever had opened up the throttle full, said an emphatic no! I guess I don't get it, but why would you buy a 193hp bike, and not get on it? May I borrow it?

While talking, a group of women pulled in on their bikes. An interesting group from a Daytona 675, to a 1957

Triumph, kick start and right hand shift, whose rider seemed insulted when I asked her if it was hard to kick. No-she had brought along the boyfriend to handle that duty-good answer. About 10 of these women, all locals from Malibu, and after taking their group picture for them, talked about riding-they were informed, educated, and enjoyed riding-how could you not with all the canyon roads in their back yard. And again I was reminded about how the cycle world was changing. Talked with some guys who could best be described as BA-Moto on Hondas. The one guy was on a CB175 from the '70's he had made into a cafe racer, while the better of the two bikes was a 1978 CB550, same customizing. And I remembered that even on their low budget-you had to be there-change back from their $100, they loved to ride. And again knew all about the Rocket, etc.

But when leaving, Theresa had met a couple, he on a Triumph Sprint ST, she on a 250 Ninja. He was telling us how he was president of the local BMW chapter, although he didn't own one-didn't even care for them, but all his friends rode them, and they asked him to be their club president-despite his obvious character flaw. Theresa talked at length with his wife-I always smile when two women talk about riding-and I was reminded how things were changing.

But it being Easter, I also thought about that resurrection morning. And how the women were the first ones to the cave, early, to see the body of their Lord. And how Mary even brought spices to wrap Him in, which were very expensive, and maybe her dowry-giving it all for Jesus. And how they had faith, even though they knew a boulder sealed the tomb, they showed up-faith that they would get in-and astonished to find the stone rolled away-and the tomb empty! A faith and love the men hadn't shown-remember Peter the night before, and where were they now? And I realized a lot about our relationship with Jesus, and with others. The bigger the commitment, the bigger the blessing. It was a joy to talk with a group of bikeriders who loved to ride, knew about different bikes, and didn't have a prejudice for or against a brand. We all rode, and that made us a family.

And I also enjoyed meeting others at church, people like me but different-I was the only one in over 3000 attending that had a leather jacket-except for Theresa, and we were the only bikes parked there. But we all had Jesus in common, just like the women who rushed to the tomb. And like them, we want the most out of that relationship-and realize it takes participation. So we read the Bible, attend church, fellowship when possible, and pray. We form a relationship with God, and as we draw closer to Him, we become more like Him, and that shows to others. And I wondered if the churches could get it together like the bikers I met that Easter afternoon. Keeping the main thing the main thing, we could all visit and ride off on our own. And you know what-it's happening. But we need to encourage it. Get out among the people, and share love of Christ with others. Form relationships. I met about to dozen new friends at the Rock Store, and could share Jesus openly with them because of our common ground-motorcycles. Truly God will use the foolish things of the world-Hello! You're a Christian and you ride?

You mean you ride and you're not? Common ground is not that uncommon-golfers talk with other golfers. Bikers with other bikers. BMW owners with their president-but get out and share. Even while eating BBQ!Run to the tomb-expect to see Jesus. And when He isn't there, ask a Christian where to find Him. You'll find He isn't very far away, and has been waiting patiently for you. Now, what are you waiting for?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

---

---

posers

When traveling, or even not traveling, I still prefer smaller, family owned bike shops. You know the ones, where the coffee pot is always on, even when less than a cup remains, old magazines cover the table, and some old, worn out chairs or stools are available to sit on and bench race. The employees don't have titles, but names. You see Joe if you want to buy a bike, and he handles all the transaction, including calling you to stop by when your plates are in. Usually a guy with a nickname like Crusty runs the service department, and when he says come back in two hours, he means get here by closing so he can go home. The parts guy knows what parts to keep in stock, and you rarely have to wait for parts-and is not against taking the needed part from a new bike to get you on the road. They understand service, and depend on you for their advertising-word of mouth still being the best there is. And while the building may need repairs, which can always wait until winter or the rainy season, which then gets taken up by more bench racing and rereading the old magazines by the coffee pot. Maybe next year. It was more personal, you knew what to expect, and didn't look for a discount-the prices were fair and you wanted them to be in business next week, next year-so you paid them, even though the new store 20 miles away offered more-said so in their ads-it was the intangibles, the relationships that were established years ago that were more important.

Then mergers and buyouts began, and now we have mega dealers, who cannot carry all the parts-so you wait, generally right in the middle of riding season. Buying a bike takes three hours, most waiting for the next F and I person to sell you stuff you can't afford or don't need, but he will add into your purchase price gladly. Nothing like buying a leather jacket over 60 months-you only buy it three times! The service guy knows your bike, but who are you, and expect a three day turnaround for repairs-if they have the parts. All nice and computerized, and you leave wondering who or what you dealt with. All you know is you can't wait to not have to go back, and all of sudden the internet pricing looks much better.

Now add economic conditions, and we see that the mega dealers are folding. They were started when business was strong, but now since it is slower, they can't make it. They lost the vision of their dealership, basing it on charts and projections, sold to them in their greed-all they saw was the profits-not the ones who got them there. Like the Three Bears bed, business was either too soft-not enough, too hard-too much, but never enough so that they could go riding. Efficient, productive, and impersonal. And in many cases run from a home office, by a conglomerate who only looks at them from a profit standpoint-and will be sold if they don't or if they become marketable.

I see ministries going this way too, sadly. Which starts out honorable and God driven, they become number driven, and lose their way. But often times it is not the man at the top, but those under him, who only have a worldly perspective, and sell out, letting the world instead of God influence their decisions. And sadly lose their vision, because of the near sighted individuals that they call members. A card, membership number, and paying dues and they are in. No urging by the spirit-although they claim to, but based on corporate dictates, financial needs, and personal gain they claim to be serving God, but really are serving themselves. And be careful, for it can be dangerous to wake up a sleepwalker, and many are-spiritually. Just ask the seven sons of Skeva, who saw Paul casting out devils and doing miracles, and thinking it was based on words confronted a demon possessed man. Who proceeded to beat them and send them away naked! Yelling at them "I know Jesus, and I have heard of Paul-but who are you?"

Following the vision God gives you is easy, until you encounter these types. And I was reminded recently how blind they are to the spirit, and why God warns me to stay away from them. Knowledge is different than wisdom, and freedom is not found in following rules. Follow the vision God has given you-in an organization or not. But remember your relationship is personal, and ministry is one-on-one. Keep it simple, follow the spirit, and be wary of the Skeva types. Wolves in sheep clothing, and although they talk a good game, rely upon man's ways rather than God's. Their reward is found in reports and boasting among themselves. Clouds with no rain, the Bible calls them. Don't fall into that trap. The bottom line is God knows, can we be so bold as to repent and follow Him?

A relationship with God is personal-I like that, Jesus assures it. Gotta go, Mickey called-would I please get my bike outta here so he can go to the desert! Personalized service. You see his shop is small, he rides, and isn't open 7 days a week. But aren't you glad God is?

See what I mean?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

trust, then verify

Sometimes it takes an awesome setting to get the memory juices going. As I stood under Air Force One, looking out over the Simi Valley, the sheer beauty and majesty seemed to overwhelm me. And I was reminded of what a great country we still live in, and my mind went back 30 years. Thirty years to when Ronald Reagan became our president, and how things were, and how they are now. For you see, I was looking out from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley-a must see for Americans, both a trip back to how things were, and also a trip ahead of how they can still be.

And I remembered being a young father, and having a family. The American dream of home ownership had just been realized, for $45,000, and a loan at 13%. Yes, 13%, and we were glad to get that. An FmHA loan. If you wanted a motorcycle, loans were in the 24% range, cars 18-21%. And inflation kept prices going up over 10% a year, but not my paycheck. We were victims of an ongoing social/political climate, and had just endured four years of Jimmy Carter, a man of God, but not a man of the people. And the scene was set for someone to take over-and either make or break this fine country. I was reminded of Lincoln, the perfect man at the right time for our country over 100 years before, and it was that time again. And so God, who was still being remembered then, sent us Ronald Wilson Reagan. And that Tuesday morning in Simi Valley, my visit to the library bearing his name was timely for me.

History allows us to look back, and like the song America, God shed his grace on thee for those eight years. I had forgotten how it takes a man of character to lead, and not a man of the opinion polls. How strong personal beliefs, and values should influence and not deter correct decision making. And how, when we don't care who gets the credit, we can get more accomplished. One of Reagan's popular beliefs, instilled in him by his dad. How it is correct to say exactly what your enemy is, and realize that we are at more than a war of ideologies, but a way of life, with a core belief that God is the creator and leader of our country. But that He chooses to do it through a man. The right man at the right time.

Romans tells us that Jesus died for our sins, while we were yet sinners, at just the right time. And we are forgiven, when we accept His forgiveness. That following the correct man is not always easy, but always worthwhile. That patience under duress builds character, and either turns us to God, or in our selfishness turns us against God. But doesn't turn God against us. For He still sheds His grace on thee, and me. And touring the library reminded me of how much He has to our nation, and me personally. And how it just wouldn't be the same if I didn't have Jesus in my life. You see political parties can persuade, and economies can control, but the freedom God promises can only be found in a relationship with Him. All are welcome, all invited. But not all choose Him. Today your choice, among the turmoil in your life, is who will you trust and follow. Man and his shortcomings, and unfulfilled promises of a quickie answer, or the God who created you, and has the answers-all you need to do is trust Him with your life. And how you will be remembered is how you remember Him.

Not fifty yards from where Ronald Reagan is buried is a piece from the Berlin Wall. I touched that wall, that tall, gray concrete barrier, and realized that man can put up barriers to separate, but only God can tear them down. And what a tribute, the proper headstone if you would, for the man who was instrumental in tearing it down. His view on Communism, simple. You lose, and we win. And buried in a relatively simple tomb, overlooking the same valley as Air Force One, you can see both the freedom of following God in Ron, and also the burden of man in the Wall. And as I stood and honored our ex-president, I remembered that although his body was in that tomb, that this man of God's soul was with Jesus. Perhaps the perfect reminder of only two days before the resurrection of our Lord, celebrated on Easter. And how those of us who believe will be resurrected with Him. And that although freedom is so often thought to be won on the battlefield, that the true price of freedom was paid for at the cross. Reagan knew that, and that is why he was the man and leader he was.

Presidents come, and presidents go-and our country has endured almost 234 years, longer than the historical average for nations in the history of the world. Aren't you glad you chose a eternal God whose reign never ends? Just a trip to a library, and not a hint of the Dewey Decimal System. But a trip opening the portals of precious memories for all who visit. I was especially proud to be an American that morning-and I pray God continues to pour out His grace on thee. The decision is up to you.

God bless America! America, let's bless God!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

do unto others

I heard yesterday that the Arabs who live in the US are all upset about the latest census. They aren't listed, and were initially advised to place their nationality as white. And that upset the hardcore, so now they have have joined the ranks of OTHER as many of us have. Yes, I am white, but an American, and that is my nationality, so like many others we mark OTHER, and write it in. So much for unity through diversity-that one never made sense anyway. And no I am not an Arab.

As a biker, motorcyclist, bike rider, or just plain rider, the industry has broken us into different riding groups. The latest fad among some riders is dual sport riding-been doing it for years. Then there are sport bike riders, been riding cafe racers since 1974. Cruisers-never quite got into them, but have ridden over a dozen in the past year, and have a Rocket 3 Roadster for this week's trip. And touring bikes-and although I have owned five BMW's, only one had a fairing set up for touring, and it only took a short 200 mile trip the short time I had it. And when confronted with being associated with a type of riding, I feel like I do about the census-I am an other. I ride 40,000 miles per year, touring across the US, but do it on a dual sport. We also use it for sport bike riding activities. I moved west 35 years ago on a sport bike/cafe racer, an R90S BMW. I have toured on 650 Nighthawks, 750 Kawasakis, and 955 Triumphs. None with a fairing, or bags, a tank bag doesn't qualify, or a radio, cb, or other sound device. Just me, the bike, and the road. And you know what, I don't want to be labeled or limited to just one type of bike or riding style. I have learned that simpler means lighter, which means better handling, easier to steer, better gas mileage, and more fun. I can choose any type road, not just get stuck on the freeways. The dual sport guys welcome me, as we talk about continuing after the pavement ends-I still haven't ventured very far like that yet. The sport bike guys and I talk about roads like the Snake-more curves than the Dragon, and less cops. Trendy has its penalties. With the touring crowd we discuss long distance trips, places to eat, and places to go. All riders, yet all the same, or is it all different.

You see it is all about the relationship with the bike. I know Gold Wingers who never go out of a 200 mile radius. That is touring to them. Then there is me who will ride 3000 miles in under 70 hours-coast to coast- on a sport bike. It all comes down to a relationship. And it is personal. And despite the world's desire to label us, we share a common denominator-we ride! That is what makes us unique, that is our common bond. We ride.

I am sometimes disappointed when I meet another Christian, and the topic of doctrines come up. Right away, they try to categorize themselves, or me. We go to a prophesying church-good. We believe in healing-good. We are missioned based-good. We only have one service-so. We have three-so? You see, pride is subtle, and only tries to bring out our differences, when we should concentrate on the common denominator-Jesus. Without Him, you are not a Christian. You may be hung up on the laws, like Baptists, the emotions like a Pentecostal church, or the liturgy of a Lutheran or Catholic service. But it is all about Jesus. So I try to keep it simple, and put Him first. I don't like legalism, it only kills the spirit. I get excited when singing about Jesus, but don't want a relationship based on feelings or emotions. I don't like the same liturgical meetings, I like the freedom in the spirit. So I choose Jesus, who is all those things. And more. No boundaries on freedom, or worship, or how we do it. Or where, or what we wear, or when. Like the choice of where, when, and how we ride-I have that freedom in the spirit through Jesus Christ.

Today is Good Friday. Which you have to have or you have no Resurrection Day-Easter. Remember that, and who that day is all about. It is not about your Sunday School, your new building, your robes, how often you meet, or what songs you sing. Those things only divide the brethren-it is all about Jesus! No theological discourses or opinions. Jesus! And you know what-you will experience a freedom and joy like never before. A love that has no denominational bounds, and an unending list of joy. You will be an other, when filling out the religious background form. But not just another to Jesus!

This weekend after church, I will ride my cruiser bike, on a tour, with my wife, on her basic Bonneville. Two-a couple who love the open road and the freedom found in it-no matter what you ride. May that freedom be only exceeded by the freedom you have in your relationship with God. What denomination are you? Christian-just a man who loves Jesus. And loves to ride motorcycles-all kinds. A Christian rider. Don't miss the blessings God has for you. And you ride a what? To where? See the difference? It's all about a relationship. It is all about Jesus.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

---