when life interferes with your plans

"The End of the Trail," depicts total loss. In this famous statue is shown complete despair on the part of the American Indian. With his head down, and spear pointed down, the Indian is matched only by his horse in total exhaustion. They have fought the battle and lost. And now where do you go? And what do you do? To whom do you turn when defeat surrounds you?

As I look back on numerous trips I have taken, I feel totally exhausted at the end, and empty. I didn't want them to end. But yet I do, why, I don't know, as I should be filled with joy, as I have just completed a trip, a vacation, a quest, or dream come true. But yet, this emptiness haunts me for days-more than emotions, it cuts deep. And this is just about time off from all the pressures of life, but yet somehow we take our problems with us, and don't rest when we need to. Why is it that after a happy event, or a blessed event we can feel so exhausted and empty? Do our emotions run our lives that much?

I watched on vacation this year as mothers took care of young ones, while the husband read the paper, or watched TV at breakfast. She-frazzled and tired, no rest here for her, the only difference between here and home was a change of scenery. He-no rest for him either, as he brought the office with him via a laptop, cell phone, and text messages. The kids, they get tired of standing in line, missing friends, and being told how much fun they are having. Mom needs a break, and the kids just want their dad to spend time with them, like he promised when they planned the trip. But, they end up rather being at home and playing with their friends. And for two weeks, many miles, and thousands of dollars, they call this a vacation-only finding out in vacating they can't wait to get home-at least it gives them a home field advantage. Sad, and pathetic. And will repeat this family time again next year.

But I have learned in recent years to relax, and not only on vacation. Going through my prayer requests this morning I have cancelled flights, cancer, cancer, broken marriages, liver, unknown illnesses, broken relationships, joblessness, loss of home, and the list goes on. People who are about to give up, whose hope is gone,and whose horse is as worn out as them, the tip of their spear stuck in the ground, feeling the battle is too great, the war is too large, and wishing to just have it all end. And as is so often heard, "I just don't get it. I don't understand how we ever got this way."

Jesus never promised us understanding. Because understanding will not alleviate the problem. He promises us peace in the midst of the storm. A calm, that surpasses understanding, and gives us confidence that while all hell breaks loose around us, that He is in control-and we can find that peace when we submit to Him. No ritual, no words-just a complete turn to Him, and then let Him handle the problem, without us coaching. You see Satan, the destroyer, wants to ruin your life. He cannot inhabit Christians, but he can upset events and others who don't know Jesus. But God is in control, and not a hair of our head can be touched without God allowing it.

We don't have to be like the Indian, we can be like Job, who after losing his kids, friends turning on him, and losing all his wealth, still sought God. And was rewarded at the end, getting a new family and double of everything that he lost. This is perhaps one book that it is OK to read the end first, as it makes the middle easier to take. No coincidence this is the oldest book of the Bible. Suffering is the really the oldest profession.

Today you may be Job. Don't become like his wife. Trust God, it is in the in-between times that God is there, just like the beginning, and will be at the end. You see the end of our trail is heaven, and we endure just to get there. As we cling to God, He takes us through the problems, and shows us love in ways we cannot imagine. And that is my prayer for you today.

Like my friend Jim tells, "when you answer the door and it is Satan, turn to Jesus and say "it's for you!"

Let Jesus be the end of your trail. Go no further without Him. Whether vacation, home, your daily grind, or wherever-He is. Promising a peace that surpasses understanding, and anything else. Be encouraged, for the end of our trail, is the beginning of heaven. And I can't wait to get there. See you soon. Amen to all your prayers, may we find favor with God's answers.

love with compassion,

Mike

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hide the tools, here comes Mike

As I sat on the curb, in a park outside Asbury Park, I sat and stared at my new 350 Honda. I was meeting my friend Jack for a Beach Boys concert, and had arrived early, and since it was hot and muggy, decided to hang in this shady park. Remembering the words of Ralph of Ralph's Honda where I had purchased the bike two months ago, I got out the owner's manual and read it. Unusual as most people don't hear anything you say when they buy their new vehicle, but for some strange reason I had listened. Turning the pages, I came upon maintenance. And among periodic checks, was to check all nuts and bolts. So dumping out my tool kit, remember the one with the two piece pliers, and two ended screwdriver, and began to check all the Phillips head screws on the bike. For some reason the Japs had a fixation on Phillips head screws, which led to many sales of impact hammers due to stripping the heads off while trying to remove them with the cheesy tool kit screwdriver. But finding all the screws tight, remember the bike was only two months old, I noticed a big screw, with a slot in it. So flipping over the screwdriver bit in the handle, proceeded to tighten it. It was loose, and I was glad I had read the manual. It was very loose, and after many turns, it was tight.

So I put away the tools, safe in the knowledge that I had prevented myself from getting stuck on the side of the road. Turn key, push starter, and pull in the clutch. Except the clutch wouldn't pull-it was tight and wouldn't move. So I immediately went into panic mode, and got out the owner's manual, desperate for help. Cursing the Japs for building this faulty machine, boy would they ever be sorry they had sold me this defective piece of junk, look out Ralph, one I get it running, I gonna get you! Never thinking I was to blame. But there it was. Picture and everything of the clutch adjuster bolt. It wasn't meant to be tight-it was used for adjustment. So unpacking the tool kit, I readjusted the bolt, for some reason I had counted the turns, and all was well, just as it was before I had tried to fix it. And got to the concert on time.

And some lessons were learned that evening. But the most important one was "if it ain't broke, don't try and fix it!"

Talking with Christopher yesterday, we were talking of all the self help and positive mental attitude books showing up in Christian book stores these days. Bordering on the New Age, and of course all about you, they run contrary to the teachings of the Bible, and although a certain feel good theology goes with them, you usually end up in a worse condition, and farther from God. Sort of like the Serenity Now of Frank Costanza, only to be reminded by Lloyd Braun, "Serenity Now, insanity later." For who knows better, than God how to handle all situations. And although there are different versions of the Bible, it stays the same, and the message of the gospel never changes. As far as I know, God never did any rewrites, and even cautions those who do.

So stick with the Bible, and don't settle for second best. Trust God and His word, and enjoy life. Opinions don't count in heaven, and God's word will never change.

As for the Beach Boys concert-"Fun, Fun, Fun." And for my 350, still "I Get Around." And like Brian Wilson was to later write on Pet Sounds, "God only knows what I'd be without Him!" And I don't want to ever find out!

Jesus Christ-He fixes what is broke. Periodic maintenance, only found in a relationship with Him. He's never the one with a screw loose.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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the news today is the prophecies of yesterday

Years ago we used to go to a lot of Padre games. In fact, we saw 37 home games in 1988, and got to know the ushers, season seat holders, and met many ball players-hint, sit by the oppositions bull pen. But one consistent theme, no matter win or lose, or who was playing, was going to buy hot dogs, etc. And we often wouldn't wait until the vendor showed, or to the inning ended. Nothing going on, so I 'll just get a other hot dog. And while waiting in line with others of the same belief, hear the crack of the bat, the crowd roar, and you missed a home run, or a great catch. And as Scooter Rizzuto used to say, "Holy Cow!" And when your friends talked to you the next day, and talked about that event, you can say you were there, not mentioning you missed it-due to the desire for a tube steak. And unless it was Kosher-unholy cow!

You see we attend events, but sometimes miss the highlights. Several distractions get in our way-and little ones are just as guilty-in fact they hurt worse. Sadly, the ones who saw the home run on TV-live, can describe it much better than you who were there, in line, and with replay have seen it from every angle. You-did too, just not the right angle-or live. And God is putting events out there now, prophetic events, but we don't see them. And even with them making the news, some with distortion, the truth is missed-we only see what we want to see,. or what they want us to hear.

This past weekend, we got to witness, in Washington, DC, Biblical prophecy unfold. Two events, both aimed to honor man, took place. One was Martin Luther King's speech, and the other a rally based on returning to honor. Both not bad-at least as advertised, but with a dangerous underlying message. King's famous speech hit on equality-racial, with hints of spiritual. Glen Beck's rally hinted at honor, with hints of spiritual. But both were missing something-the truth. And it reminded me of the week Jesus rode into Jerusalem-all hailing Him, and the same crowd who one week later would say "crucify Him!" You see in both cases, the people are looking for salvation, and a savior-someone to lead them out of tyranny, and into freedom-but they are looking for a political leader to change laws, and not for a change of hearts-theirs. And when they don't deliver, another false savior will arise. We vote every four years don't we?

And we are warned that before the rapture occurs, these things will happen. Before Jesus calls His church out of this world, and the worst seven years of earth occur, He will rescue His believers out-no matter social, religious, economic, or club affiliation-you must be born again. And clever spokesman for man will use religion, and religious terms, and even talk of unity of man-and will mislead many. Some knowingly, some not. But the results are the same-without Christ-eternal damnation-hell! Beware when a Mormon, who in many ways share the same doctrines with Muslims, they are anti-Christian-just read their writings, and although appear nice, are caught up in an evil religion-one that denies the deity of Jesus Christ-even to use His name in vain for their religion. Don't hate them-love them! Just hate their lies! And when they talk of uniting all religions into one, we see the spirit of anti-Christ is alive and well. And beware-not all who come in the name of god bring good news. Anything other than the gospel, is lies. It sounds good, but from the Tower of Babel through the crucifixion, men have wanted what they want, but not what God offers. A false freedom, based on majority rule, not the rule of God. and although it sounds good, only brings more division-only in Christ will there be spiritual unity-and love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, self control, and long suffering-fruits of the spirit. Political rallies are a poor substitute for spiritual truth. Try flooding your churches, and see the difference. For you see while at the rally, you may have been the same as me missing the home run for a hot dog. Appeasing my physical appetite, and missing the reasons I really went to the game.

Feed your soul-or your senses. Can't do both. If you seek freedom in politics, you will be disappointed-laws will do that to you. But seeking God, and trusting His spirit to lead you, will always end in joy. If you are looking for another politician to lead you out of your situation-beware. Politician, news caster, whoever, unless their message is the gospel, there is no freedom. And you will be following your own desires, and not God's. His are simple-that in His patience no man should perish. The government will figure how many men lost in battle are acceptable. Or what is good for you. In case you didn't know-or even if you do.

Jesus Christ became expendable for you. Take a moment and listen to what He has to say. Act from truth, not emotions, and you won't be stuck in line when the truth happens. And unless the speaker has died on the cross, willingly-he cannot speak in love or truth. The words of Christ will last forever, but you won't. Political heroes come and go-be careful who you follow. Your wrong decision will never be straightened out in eternity. Seek God now, while He can be found.

Famines, pestilence, strange weather, war and rumors of war, children turning against parents, and people turning their backs on God. Then uniting under a false messiah. These are all prophesized by God, prior to His return. Are people starving worldwide? Ever hear of AIDS or STD's? Do Iraq, and Afghanistan mean anything to you? How about our borders? How many mothers murder their children, or kids kill their parents? Abortion by the millions! How many follow men, when they should follow God? And how many have turned against God, when He is the answer!

If you have read this-be warned! Seek God now! The time table is winding down, and no politics, laws, or great country will save you.

Note-the US is not mentioned in Biblical prophecy! Don't be here to find out why!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

a letter to the editor

Remember used cars? A term, that stood for decades, but now in our politically correct environment are called pre-owned. Let me tell you, all cars are preowned. The factory owned them before the dealer bought them, and then even if you are the first titled owner, you are still the third owner. They are used-after you purchase the car and drive it. And yes-pre owned also. Your choice. But for the past decade or so the factories have come out with certification programs, programs to have the cars meet a certain criteria set up by the manufacturer. And in many cases, the cars are in better shape with a better warranty than when they were new. At least to the original retail owner.

Certified cars have been inspected, and all things brought to new specs. New factory parts, by factory trained technicians, and the best thing of all-a warranty that is better than the new car warranty. Usually up to 100,000 miles. Not bad. And someone else has taken the initial depreciation, so they are priced pretty good. But not all cars meet certification, or are worth investing money in to make them meet the standards. And these cars end up on independent used cars lots, and at a lower price. And when dealing with luxury cars, can be real expensive to repair. Many cars are bought at auction, and if a dealer passes on them, you know they are bad. And these are the cars the independents usually sell. I know, even though they are still in warranty sometimes, the wear items, or damaged items aren't. Truly a buyer beware market-based on price, the new owner, at least for a few weeks, got what he thought he bought.

I grimaced when I saw yet another CARFAX ad the other day. As if buying a car with a CARFAX report guarantees a great car. For you see, what they don't tell you is that CARFAX is only a reporting agency, not an investigative one. They only report what is public record, or gleaned from factory information, which is usually proprietary-not available to them. Ask yourself, if your car is in an accident, are you going to call CARFAX and tell them? Will you give up your private information to a third party, you don't know? So they are restricted, very restricted to what they can report. To me misleading, but to the ignorant consumer, a possible burden. It in no way guarantees the history or condition of the car. BUYER BEWARE!

Today we have many so-called Christian authors, and speakers who inject opinion, view points, and some times rumor and innuendo into their writing. My prayer is always "Lord, please keep my opinions and the gospel separate. Lead by your spirit, not my words." And I encourage you to check my statements with the Word. Not your opinion, but God. We both can be right, or both wrong. God never fails. It is His word that will last. And unlike a CARFAX, He knows all the information, not just what is reported to Him, and is willing to give to those who ask, willingly. Then it is up to you after you have prayed to take His advice. Godly advice only works when applied. Coulda, shoulda, woulda, don't count. You may not agree with His answer, but He will lead you through, not around your trial. Successfully, but you must follow His instructions, and let His plan play out.

Before you buy into more problems, check out God and His word first. Beware of any thing else, and anyone who forces opinions on you. God said test the spirits, always good advice. And Godly. Good intentions don't always bring Godly results, only in Jesus will you find that. Never say "Mike says," quote God. Long after our words are gone, His will remain.

Used lives are like used cars, a lot of hidden flaws. Go to the one who designed and built you, and never end up saying "I wish I had asked God first." So ask Him first today, good advice, and even found in scripture. Matthew 6:33. Look it up. Don't trust me, trust God. And his word, the only true facts out there.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

heroes, loyalty, unity, and Jesus

Unity. It is a hot topic today. I worked for United Auto Group, and could fly anywhere in the United States on United Airlines. They could take money from my paycheck for the United Way. When our troops come home they are re-united, and I think you get the idea. Toyota actually produced cars in the US of A, built by NUMMI, National United Motor Manufacturing, Inc. Somehow, the title of something with united in it makes us feel, so united! And when we have society telling us to have "Unity through diversity," well I give up. Try that with Raider and Charger fans! But at any given time we can give in to unity, when it meets our needs.

Years ago the Albuquerque Dukes had 25 cent beer night. And there was unity in beer drinkers that night, as all the Bud, Miller, and PBR drinkers were unified in 25 cent, brand didn't matter, the price did! So much for brand loyalty! Whenever the Chargers are winning, they draw sell out crowds, but in times of 1-15, the city had to pay for the empty seats so that the home games could be televised. So the so-called loyal fans could unite at their homes, in front of their TV's, instead of paying $40 per seat. So much for team loyalty! And I watch at motorcycle rallies, as bikers unite, with the bar and shield crowd over here, the Wing Nuts gathered together, and the Beemerphiles still yet segregated. But we are all bikers, I guess that gives us unity, right? Or is that unity through diversity?

It seems society loves to talk unity, but can be easily swayed. My friend Peter has actually sponsored a Unity Ride, where all Christian clubs come together in various locations for the day, uniting in the spirit of the Lord, in a praise and worship day, after a ride and of course food. Church on motorcycles, not a bad thing.

But when God talks unity, He is talking of a special unity. Not a unity of togetherness by brand, price, choice of ride, or team loyalty. His is a unity of the Spirit, where we Christians become like Him, agreeing with Him, being part of a unity where no bonds can be broken, and are unique in the world. Where just because a group has things in common, and unites, in Christ it is a unity where we agree with Him,our commonality, Jesus, and our guide the Holy Spirit. A unity that doesn't change based on situations, as it is based on Jesus Christ, who doesn't change, but changes us when we let Him. A unity based on love and trust, administered in faith. Walking in His Spirit. No better place to be.

But weaker souls can be like society, changing with trends, conditions, finances, and doctrines. This is not unity in the spirit, and should not be called as such. True unity comes through Jesus Christ, and no other. You may differ on where to eat, what to wear, or what to ride-but true believers never differ on Jesus, and who He is. And will seek Him, and not the situation, when troubles come. Look to the cross-show it with great joy in your life. Seek God's spirit, and walk peacefully in it. Confident that the same God who told Moses "see you on the other side," was faithful to meet him there. It took unity with God for Moses to trust the way that God would provide.

Today your car may be broken, or your legs, or you marriage. God can heal all these things, if you let Him. Trust Him, ask Him, and then let Him. His way, not your prethought out schemes based on a night of losing sleep over it. That is not trust. Ask and it will be given to you. Seek and you will find. Seek first the kingdom of God, then all things will be added. Trust God.

Unity in the spirit. More than matching team jerseys. More than all riding the same brand. And more than just attending the same church. Where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty! God made the first move when He sent Jesus. The next move is up to you.

And with 9-11 coming up, remember the Flight 93 heroes, 40 people who united in the spirit of the Lord, and saved our country. Heroes who took the scripture, "greater love hath no man than to lay down his life for his brothers," to heart, and in a brilliant, loving unity gave their lives. No one else but the Holy spirit could unite 40 strangers in a common bond-one that meant giving the ultimate sacrifice-their lives. So as we remember them, God bless America! And may we bless God! In the unity of love!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

postcards from the edge

The first long ride I ever took was a 150 mile round trip ride to my grandparents' house in Pennsylvania. Taking the same roads that I had travelled with my parents on countless times, somehow they took on a whole new meaning for an 18 year old on his 350 Honda. Seeing things I couldn't from the back seat, I had all the senses going, including the sense of adventure. And surprisingly after 40 years of riding it, it still heightens my senses while riding it today. Maybe because it was my first, or maybe the destination, but I always enjoy that ride when back east.

Having just completed an 11,000 mile trip around the US of A, rides take on a different meaning. To many, trips are measured in mileage to make them successful. A trip to Orange County, long for some, seems boring-160 miles round trip. All the way to LA, wake me when we get there. It seems that after experiencing all I have, the local rides have lost some of their appeal. Almost not worth putting a helmet and gloves on for. It always happens after a long trip, but I am adapting better this year, as God is working on my heart.

When Jesus gave the great commission to His disciples-"go into all the earth, sharing the gospel as you go, and doing it in Jerusalem, Samaria, Judea, and the outer lands" please excuse freedom of not quoting the text exactly, many have gone all around the world as missionaries. While some have gone as far as Grape Day Park. Each a ministry field of its own, one no more important than the other. The important thing being going where God directs you. Maybe a statement about your heart condition than your physical location. But once again, I see too much influence on the outer lands perspective-location wise. China, Russia, Africa are all fertile fields, if only someone would go. The equation being the farther you go from home, the more God blesses. While neglecting the poor and wretched that are in our own home towns. And we are all guilty of it.

It is a mind set that can seem more adventurous the farther from home we go. Like we have to trust God more in a foreign land, than at home. God has blessed Theresa and I as we get to minister on the road. Wherever that road leads. Our Jerusalem may be Escondido today, but has expanded to So Cal. We can go to our Judea with Father Al in Shanksville some 3000 miles away. Or anything in between. And each ride is just as special, no matter the length, when guided by God. The excitement of seeing His will in our lives can happen on a five minute ride, or a five hour ride. It is in our hearts that the true outer lands are. And that outer land may be as close as your spouse, who rides with you. If you've never gone there with her before.

God has given us a heart for riding and being on the road. And while our freeways may seem boring, stopping for that one along the road,can open up a ministry field you may have overlooked. Or you may ride 1000 miles to a destination, neglecting to enjoy the blessings God has prepared for you along the way. But the seminar was great. Maybe if we see the destination of where we are now, and enjoy each mile for its own, we would be blessed more. Don't rush across South Dakota, take an old highway and enjoy the farms. Take an old state highway across Wisconsin, and meet the ones God put there for you to meet. Get off the 5 while in Orange County and take Santiago Canyon Road instead. Each one becoming a ride, instead of a trip. To be enjoyed. Wherever you are is local.

Your true location is more of a condition of the heart than a location of the body. Some only trust God with small things, and never venture beyond Jerusalem. Some go as far as Samaria, and live to get back. But then huddle in the security of home. Some may even go as far as Judea, stretching the limits they put on God. But it is the ones who seek the outer lands-all the blessings God has for them, that experience more of His glory. God is not so much a God of outer lands positionally, as He is conditionally. In your heart. So take a brave step today, take a trip with God. Venture into the outer lands of your heart. You may find that the message is the same, and be rejuvenated, knowing that God lives outside your locality. It takes faith to please God, and faith to venture out. Be blessed and take a road to somewhere you've never been. Samaria has much to offer, so does Judea. But only if you have the heart of Jesus.

Who was always on the road. And wherever He was, He called home for the night. Knowing His ultimate home was heaven. Can we remember that on our trip?

"I may spend my life upon the road,

just trying to add to what I know,

and some day I may settle down,

and all my friends will be around."

Just an old verse from an old Eagles song, Twenty One. But what a way to live. Realize you are on the road of life, and in heaven all your friends will be around. Settle for nothing less than what God has to offer. He is everywhere-make sure He is in your heart!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

just a chance meeting on a sidestreet in TJ

My last selling job was with Bowman Distribution, the same one that now goes as Barnes Group, the blue and white sticker on the fender of NASCAR racers. They are a major contingency sponsor, paying big bucks to have their sticker on that fender. And at the time being far removed from any tracks, PIR was the closest, I put together a contingency plan for SCORE and FUD, the two biggest race series in off road desert racing. Difficult at first, have you ever tried describing a desert to someone in Cleveland, their home office? And how do you race with no track? But they overcame it, I think my enthusiasm had something to do with it, but probably the thought of more business was the persuading argument.

I dealt with all the classes, but my favorite was the Trophy Trucks. Factory backed, and using NASCAR motors, these trucks could go over 140mph, in the dirt, and had suspension travel of over 38"! An E ticket ride in any competition. And you may recognize the names I dealt with. Paul and Dave Simon, Robbie Gordon, Ricky Johnson of MX fame, Jimmie Johnson-he used to call me sir, Jimmy Smith-whose dad helped start NASCAR, Larry Ragland, Rob Mac Cachran, The Herbst brothers, and the Ironman himself, Ivan Stewart. All heroes to those who followed desert racing. With Ivan himself, more well known than all the others. Especially in Mexico, where he had won the Baja 500 and 1000 so many times he was legendary. E-von they called him in Spanish!

I did business with plants in Tijuana at the time, and got posters and stickers for my accounts there. These off road racers were legends there, and at the races fans would flock the booths during contingency just to get a sticker. Sometimes waiting all morning in line. So when the 1000 went out of Tijuana in 1995, I arranged for some to meet me at contingency, and meet the racers. They got to sit in the trucks, have pictures taken, and get behind the scene views that they could only dream about. Things that never would have happened without my connections. But one person was absent, the one they all came for-Ivan.

But walking down a side street next to contingency to avoid the crowds, Mario and his family walked with me. Carrying posters, stickers, and wearing huge smiles, this was better than Disneyland. Better than they could have ever dreamed, they were on sensory overload. Memories that they would cherish, and make their friends idolize them, for they had a first hand experience with the drivers, teams, and the trucks. They got to be backstage, on the other side of the barriers, and were welcomed. And then as so often happens in story books, Ivan comes walking up the street. Trying to avoid the crowds that mobbed him, he had walked up a side street, and called to me when he saw me, happy to see a familiar face. We visited for a few seconds, and then introduced him to my friends. He took pictures with each one of them, signed posters, and the shirts they were wearing, talked with them, and they left in total shock. The look on their faces showed somewhere between total disbelief and awe. Wait until there friends saw they actually met him, and they would tell their friends they know him! Just look at the pictures. But the words that Mario said that day, stuck with me. "Mike, you told me you knew him, but I didn't realize he was your friend." Being his friend made all the difference, as Mario was also my friend.

Jesus calls us friends. Where we were once strangers, when we give our heart to Him, we become friends. And He is able to tell us things, show us things, and we enjoy a special relationship with Him, because we are now family. And the things He tells us we now understand, because we are His friends. And although we have Peter times, where we ignore Him or don't listen, why is it always women who lead men astray, He forgives us, and wants to be our friend, even when we aren't His, and long before He became ours.

Is Jesus your friend? Wouldn't you like to have Him call to you when you see each other? The choice is yours. Stranger or friend. You can't be both. And there will be no strangers in heaven, just strange people who got to know Jesus-a group of friends of His in heaven. But you can hang with Him now, and be blessed.

Ask Him to forgive you, trust Him, get to know Him, and watch as your life changes for the better-and is blessed. Mario and his family that day met their hero, and I know the stories and pictures live in their hearts today of a chance meeting with Ivan Stewart. It is no chance you are reading this-turn it over to Jesus, be born again.

Posters and stickers are optional, and He has even signed you into the book of life. Now that is one autograph I'm glad to have-and will never see on E-bay!

He calls us friends. Get over the religion, and get on with life! His contingency plan pays for all who enter, and is good for all eternity. NO FEAR! Or as my Mexican friends say SIN NIEDO!

Be His friend today!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com