only the names have been changed

I was just thinking of all the people I come in contact with, and its a unique group of people. Rich, poor, homeless, home under renovation, renting, buying, some ride, some refuse to, some work, some retired, some won’t or can’t-yet somehow I am friends, or at least acquaintances with all of them. It makes me shudder to think I am the common thread among all my friends, but I find that that makes us all that much more common to each other. For instance, we had dinner Friday night with my old 10th grade girlfriend, still living in Jersey. Her version of our first date is more romantic, my memory fails me there. But their older daughter joined us for dinner, and I found her most pleasant. She had four years ago left home, and travelled west to make her new life, against her parent’s best wishes. Which put me in an interesting position, when asked how I felt about it. Being a parent I want the best for my sons, yet want them to go out on their own. To go after their dreams, not after mine. And so this daughter was faced with seeing her parents for the first time in her new life out here. So what did I think? And does it really matter?

I side with the daughter, who when her mother said with some indignation, “she’ll move back to Jersey,” said daughter said “never.” And I agree, with the younger. Having been in the same situation almost 38 years ago, I was told that “you’ll be back, it’s the same everywhere.” Or “you have friends here, how can you start over?” And many-almost all don’t have any contact with me today, as I didn’t, it isn’t, and I did.” So sitting there I smiled to myself, and chose not to answer. But I side with the daughter, and applaud her for her bravery, even in the sense of it causing family disharmony. This evening took another twist when she, the daughter asked if I would help her look for a car. Right in front of her father. Either he wouldn’t, couldn’t, or she didn’t want him too-in all cases sad to me. I am waiting for her call. But the bomb of the evening was when the girls, minus the daughter went to the lady’s room, and Theresa was told they were splitting up, and hadn’t told their daughter-for over a year! They had rehearsed it, and would tell her that night. Which bummed us out, for many reasons.

As Christians we see very few reasons to divorce, which God has said He hates. Good enough for me, work it out. But as I listened to the daughter talk about her live in boy friend, I wondered what she would think. Her parents had taken vows, probably in a church, and before God, “till death do us part.” How would this look to one living with another, outside of marriage? Why would she want to get married, to make a commitment, when her own parents wouldn’t honor theirs? And they were telling her what to do? What lessons of life were they teaching her? And how would she react?

We were told via Facebook, that the daughter took it well, and it didn’t upset her. I haven’t talked to her yet. Maybe it doesn’t, as she left home on bad terms. Maybe it will, as we all need our parents, and as my father once told me, “you will always be my son, no matter what.” And we had many no matter whats. And so I pray for them, all of them. Some things I don’t get, and this is one of them. By the way, we were out celebrating our 35th anniversary, which they congratulated us on. They never made it to theirs, by choice. We have, by choice. So the question is, “what lessons are we teaching our children?” If the old saying is true,”them that can’t, teach,” I shudder to think of what I have taught my kids. Perhaps more accurate is the older saying “the true measure of success is how your kids describe you to their friends.” And I am comfortable with that.

We also spent that night with Christopher and Reagan. Who both love to have us, we catch up on their careers, watch old movies, listen to music, and eat at NIchols, not bad for 12 hours when you consider six of them spent asleep. I We have tried to teach our sons the right things, brought them up in Jesus, and encouraged them. And it is great to see them growing, and successful. We differ on some viewpoints, but love more than disagree. Different doesn’t mean wrong, just different. But we agree on the main thing-Jesus. And that makes the difference. We have encouraged them to be who they are in Christ. Just like we want to be. And as I see many traits we have shown them over the years bearing fruit, we smile and thank God, for His patience with us, as we find we have changed along with them. Grown is a better word. From my LA loving son, now a world traveller, to my other son, soon moving out, his new career blossoming, we are excited for them. Sadly the other family previously mentioned doesn’t share the same joy as us. They don’t understand, we don’t either, but love covers a multitude of sins, misunderstanding one of them.

Talking with Fu after church one night, I told him how we used to play “why the dinosaurs died?” with my older son. He would mess up, become the dinosaur, and I was the reason they died. AKA punishment. And we would laugh. But a game we only played a few times, was I would be my son, and he would be me. And I was hurt and embarrassed how he talked to me, was I that bad? And it helped me to mellow, to love more. To see things through his eyes, much different.

So how does God see us? And why can’t we see us as He does? First, forgiveness is for past, present , and futures sins. ALL of them. And each time we ask forgiveness, He looks at it as the first time-we are already forgiven. But we remember, while He forgets. And we have a longer memory for other’s sins than our own. So why not try it God’s way. When Jesus told the woman to “go and sin no more,” He had forgiven her. But He knew she would, but He loved her still. He never left her, no matter where or when, and He extends the same to us. Remember that-no one else may be watching, but God always is, not to spy , but to protect. And it works for kids who go astray and their parents who do too. So start today anew with Jesus. Hold no grudges, encourage others including your kids in the Lord. And the best advice may be from scripture, but with a twist from St. Francis Assissi. “Speak the gospel daily, and only use words when needed.” Long after they forget your words, they will remember your actions. We all remember Jesus on the cross, do you remember His words their? See what I mean?

And I’m never going back, I’m sticking with Jesus.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

the road to Exeter

We just got back from celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary, by taking a trip in the truck. No not senile, or fading, but with a purpose behind it all. We were going to Exeter, and visiting the foothills around Sequoia National Park. For all you trendy types who go where your friends go, we chose the Central Valley, and are the better for it. With Exeter, our destination, for a reason. Years ago, on an earlier anniversary trip, again in a car, we discovered Exeter when following a road when the road we were on ended. And again God blessed us, as we fell in love with Exeter. Picture Mayberry 40 years after it went off the air, and welcome to Exeter. Where the mercantile is also home to the International dealer, selling and repairing farm implements since 1916. Where we were greeted by a farmer in overalls, “welcome to Mayberry.” And after browsing the mercantile, went antique shopping, the reason we went by pick-up. And filled it, with the arrangement we would stop by on the way out of town to get the items. Which we did on Monday morning, even after the owner gave us her home phone on the back of her card in case we needed to leave early to get on the road. And with prices half of what they are here, we filled the truck. And were on our way. And we will be back...

But Sunday was the day to retrace our original ride, and we did it backwards, arriving in Springville some 48 miles later. On roads some would call paths, passing ranches, cattle, farms, but no people, except for the occasional bicyclist, or hiker. My kind of road, I will return on the Tiger! Then off across the valley to Hanford, to show Theresa where they have the annual vintage bike meet each May-a must see. But really we wanted to go to the Superior Dairy Products Company malt shop. Where we were in for a real treat. Where large is the new small, and the new large is shared by a table of six. I thought the prices were high, until we saw the servings from our place at the counter-always the best place to sit anyway. One scoop of ice cream-all made on the premises in the factory in back, was almost a quart of ice cream. See the pictures of the sundaes, @$6.05 each a deal! Our milkshake was a quart of strawberry ice cream, turned into soft serve that no straw had a chance with. And with grins as wide as our faces, it was easy to shovel it in, which makes you wonder, why have a meal when the desert will fill you up just fine? Bring a friend! A great destination for any club ride, skip lunch-we’re having ice cream!

But how do we just stumble upon places like this? Why Exeter, even with its beautiful morals depicting valley history, why go there? The picture is the one on the side of the Police Station depicting life in the 40’s, a motor cop and a farmer. Just visiting, neighbors, no tickets involved. Remember when we all waved to each other? Maybe we all just wish to get back to the Garden, to where it all began. To seek a simpler time, where handshakes sealed deals, strangers were greeted as friends, prices were fair, and no one left the counter hungry. And wanting to do it all over again. When God says He knows the plans for us, we so often wish to know ahead of time, missing out on the suspense and pleasant surprises He has for us. Yet He knows, and so many chance meetings aren’t to Him. Taking a new road, wondering where it goes? He knows, and may be guiding you, for your benefit. Hungry, ask Him. The little kid in Him might just guide you past the meal to the desert. Or take you to a low rider show, and eat some local hand made adobada tacos. Or take you to a farm stand filling up on goodies, leaving room for the ice cream, of course. It may take you to places with your best friend, in my case my wife, to spend them with. But God has so many places to take us, that we would never go to unless He took us. But why do we resist Him?

A key component of grace is obedience. Yes, grace is all about Jesus, but how long did it take for you to accept Him and His grace? See, it takes obedience, so follow where He leads. Go boldly where you have never been before, and let God bless you. Sunday morning church services are not the only place God blesses, so take Him along with you. See the beauty of your surroundings through His eyes, and watch as the blessings unfold. Trust Him, as a so-called chance meeting for us turned into 35 years of marriage, how a closed road took us to Exeter, and a bike meet took us to to Superior Dairy Products. We aren’t always sure of what lies on the road ahead, but with God leading I can assure you it will be exciting and fun. And you may even get to bless others.

Our four day/three night trip seemed to last for weeks. Fun will do that. We ate good, albeit too much, spent too much, what vacation don’t you, and spent time with God making new memories. So, what are your weekend plans? Do they include God? Or are you just following the trendy, and not knowing why. Trendy will never be cool, it comes from the heart. And Jesus is cool-the coolest. Better than a huge sundae at Superior, and able to make a trip in the truck worthwhile. Imagine what He can do on a motorcycle? So ask Him to help you plan your next trip, don’t wait for any special event, today is special enough. And then let Him guide you-forego the calories for the blessing, the ride for the truck, and get back to where He wants you. It all started in the Garden, with two people who wanted to go their own way, and disobeyed God. Despite that, look at all the blessing you have. Now imagine how incredible it will be when obeying, the Garden awaits. And you don’t have to finish your meal to have it. For God’s blessings like a great ice cream begin with Him-and a friend to share it with. Happy Anniversary to my wonderful wife-many more milkshakes, and chocolate rides lie ahead. You never know where the road to Exeter may lead you...and it is always better to have someone to share that sundae with. God’s grace like the best ice cream is always Superior!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

sweethearts and softballs

I read once where those of us who ride in So Cal are the most fickle, even trading bikes year after year for 1/10th of a second improvement in its 1/4 mile time. Rides we could never duplicate ourselves, yet we were taken in by the glowing prose of the road test editor. And some years ago even Motor Trend admitted about tying their Car of the Year winner to those who advertise heavily, it is not at all wrong for us to be suspicious of the media-written or visual. So many of us, especially when younger, were attracted by pretty faces-remember the Norton girl, but where are the bikes now, lost heavily in depreciation, to gain what only a trained rider would notice, and only if they went from old bike to new. So coming across an article in Cycle Guide-RIP, from 30 years ago, I was reminded how gullible we can be. The editor had addressed the issue of accusations made about writing sweetheart articles about bikes for the manufacturers, just to get or maintain ad revenue. Doesn’t seem too far fetched, does it? But he addressed the issue professionally, realistically, but also truthfully. At least the issues he mentioned.

I know from first hand that bikes sent to magazines are set to proper settings, I ride many of them. But in the hands of some editors, I have seen the bike treated worse than a work truck, with as much respect shown as a low end rental car. Abused is the key word, but never admitted to. If it survives them, it should survive anything. It’s just like a NASCAR motor designed to go only 500 miles, be careful after that. Just in case the new prospective new owner rides 10/10ths. I know few who do, 6/10ths would be pushing it for most of us. Bikes that gain praise when tested on the track, can fail miserably on the street. Suspensions can be too harsh, riding position for everyday, and only fools ride all the time at red line on their daily commute. But that same bike when tested under street conditions, can fail in a racer’s hands. Too soft, no midrange power, seat too hard. The same bike under different conditions can be a best buy, or a nightmare. Not the editor’s fault, read the article on how it was tested. It’s all there.

But yet many complain about the bike, especially when it is under warranty still. Specious complaints abound, and in California, with its liberal consumer protection laws, it can be eligible for buyback if in the shop for more than 30 days-no matter the problems. Don’t you think Joe Consumer knows this? And I know it happens with cars, and I now see it with motorcycles. Can’t afford it, too fast, only gets 40mpg instead of 45, too expensive to afford, my wife won’t ride on it, and pick your excuse. And of course, the magazine wrote the article to sell bikes for the manufacturer, so they are at fault too. No personal liability involved, we all read the same stories, the same ads, and in some cases bought at the same store. So how can one be so wrong, and another so right?

Some only hear, and only hear what they want. But some take it to heart. We have become a group of those who only read headlines, text messages in cryptic codes, or sound bytes. We don’t listen, and I am not sure we want to. We watch as reporters lob softball questions to dishonest politicians, and then accept less than truthful answers. We only hear what we want to hear, but take very little to heart. So it was 2000 years ago, with the 7 sons of Sceva. Brothers who heard about the miracles of Jesus, the healings, demon possessions, and others things He healed. Wishing to be part of the trend, but not knowing Jesus or anything about Him, they did know of a man who was demon possessed. And approached him, using what they had heard. But when trying to cast the demons out, the demons attacked them, but not before insulting them even more. “We know Jesus,” they screamed, “and we have heard of the apostle Paul. But who are you nothings? We have never heard of you!” And sent them away bleeding, beaten, and naked-running for their lives. All based on what they thought they had heard, never taking it heart. Never knowing the saving grace of Jesus. They suffered physical, emotional, social, and spiritual pain needlessly. Their focus was on themselves, and what it could do for them. They thought themselves to be righteous, in their own eyes, because of their actions. But it takes a commitment to Jesus, a changing of the heart, not just an attitude adjustment of what is good for me. They trusted their own limited understanding, and didn’t trust God. So close, yet so far. And so needlessly wrong.

Get to know God. Read His word. Pray, which is a conversation, a dialogue not a monologue, where both speak, then both listen. If only the Sceva boys had listened. They found fame, but were infamous, and their story is so important that God includes it in the Bible, Acts 19. So before you sign on the bottom line for your new ride, ask questions. Take a test ride. Read the articles, not just for what you want them to say. And most of all pray before you make the decision. It may be true that a bad day riding is better than a good day at work, but the right decision can make each ride the best-only wanting you to ride more and farther. A good day at the track can be painful to your buns riding home.

It is like that with Jesus. Testimonies are important, but get to know the man who wrote the Bible, not just about Him. Spend time with Him and get to know of His love, mercy, and grace firsthand. It is a lifelong marathon we race, but at a 1/4 mile at a time. And if some guys named Sceva advertise a bike for sale, just say no thanks. And go on to the next one. What you read may not be what you get. Or want. Just like the same bike is great on the track and lousy on the street, don’t base your relationship with Jesus based on a bad church experience. Jesus had them too. Get out and feel the wind in your face, and get to know Jesus personally. Ask the tough questions, no sweetheart reviews here. On the track, the street, church, home, or work, ask Jesus. If only the Scevas had been smart enough to ask. You see, inquiring minds still want to know. Inquiring minds find out.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

t-shirt theology

To those of us who have chosen to rebel against suits, ties, and shirts with collars, we have found solace in t-shirts. The very same clothing item we used to wear under our collared shirts, white of course, at least at first, has now become a daily item for most of us. When God called me into ministry, and I got rid of all my suits and ties, I kept one shirt with a collar, which in almost five years have never found the right scenario to wear it. Church-no. Weddings-uh uh. Funerals, black t-shirt is fine, under leather, of course. And when so many feel the need-pressured, to dress up, I stay comfortable, like many of my friends in the proper t-shirt. I marvel at those who try to be cool via a trend, but trendy will never be confused with cool, just under a delusion. But we can tell... So I have a wardrobe of t-shirts. Some from our various travels, some from cool places we have eaten. Some represent motorcycles, and some have the vintage look, mainly because they are. Like their owner. Not old school ,just school. Still not sure at what age my t-shirt becomes vintage, but somehow we know. So when I heard the Hollister Rally is back on for 2013, I looked through my collection of Hollister Rally shirts, some never having been worn. And looked forward to this years, and hopefully next. But I also came across some shirts I had forgotten about, and some good rides, and memories came from them. But just as there are my favorites, some have become worn out from wear. And at some point will get elected to the T-shirt Hall of Fame, aka the garage. For old t-shirts make great polishing cloths. Cotton absorbs oil and brake fluid. And unlike the trendy nitrocellulose polishing rags, they don’t melt when rubbed against a hot exhaust header, or when you touch a warm head. Nope, t-shirts, the good old cotton ones go one until they are shredded. And it is with regret that we finally have to throw our old friend away. Finally worn out, not functional, but the memories remain.

Now my wife also uses old t-shirts for cleaning and dusting. What is a swifter but old t-shirt material? So why buy one when an old t-shirt will do? But what about using the wrong t-shirt? In the pecking order of t-shirts, some have hallowed status, as they would never go into the rag pile. Torn, shredded, stained, and unwearable, I’ll let you know if it is or isn’t, some just go from closet to drawer, saved but forgotten about, until looking for something else misplaced, and I come upon them, and the cycle of memories start again. But some still get used as rags, and even then some are for oil, some for washing, some for polishing. A true caste system of cotton-and you thought it was just a shirt. Please don’t ever call them rags.

Now if you have ever spent time around cars, shop rags are a good thing to have. But never have the absorbancy to clean up when the oil runs out of the drain plug hole, left empty when you forgot to replace it before you filled the crankcase. They don’t clean up brake fluid very well, and have no absorbancy like a t-shirt. Once again cotton is king. And although they are reusable, when mixed in with ones from machine shops when cleaned, can pick up metal shavings too small for the eye to see, but not too small to scratch the paint. And so again t-shirts to the rescue. And the tale goes on...

Now the Bible has a thing or two to say about filthy rags. Even in this pre-petroleum era, rags were used. I am not sure about t-shirts though, have never seen a Jesus shirt from then, although I have some I have bought here myself.
But the scriptures tell us that our righteousness is as filthy rags. And that they are like our righteousness, they fade away, when overcome by our iniquities. But just as a rag’s purpose is to clean up a mess, when we are done with them we dispose of them, environmentally correct of course, right? But what of our righteousness? It depends on where your source of righteousness comes from. If from yourself, bragging on your good deeds, and bringing praise upon yourself, you have some dirty rags. But if you are walking with God, with His righteousness shining through you, then it is His righteousness you possess. And like your favorite old shirt, you want to cling to it, and wear it whenever possible. Until it is worn out, and goes from closet to drawer, to garage, to pile, to eventually the trash, when it is of no use anymore. Sadly many live their lives like that, starting out strong in the Lord, and ending up in the trash heap. No one ever sets out to fail, but whenever you trust your own righteousness, you are headed that way. How sad it is to see an old friend, once walking with God, but having fallen away. Drifting like leaves in the wind, a soiled t-shirt of a life. Not putting God first, but seeking a righteousness based on self, as if anything outside of Jesus Christ could ever be labeled righteousness. Filthy rags can either become filthy form being used, or being misused. That decision is yours. And like I have heard biker’s say about their colors, “if it isn’t in your heart, don’t wear it on our back.” Jesus wears stripes on His back He took for us, do we wear Him on our hearts?

It is our sin that separates us from God, and His righteousness. No t-shirt, club, colors, church, or religion can restore that. Only Jesus is the way to God, the stepping stone. He became the dirty t-shirt that was once new, and then worn out for our sins. He was thrown into the trash, only to rise again-sin and death couldn’t hold Him. So I ask, what are you holding onto? Is it time to change shirts, to get some new rags? If they are dirty due to sin, replace them now. If from doing God’s will, save them, but keep the clean ones handy,too. We never know when the chance to fall into sin will attack us, so like your mother told you, wear clean underwear. Wear a clean heart with Jesus, but don’t hide it under your outer clothes. Wear Him where He can be seen. Maybe someone will ask where you got that cool shirt? And it doesn’t have to be a religious shirt either. Remember trendy will never be cool, but Jesus always will be.

It is Valentine’s Day today, and my wife has a heart shirt on. The shirt she bought to wear during my open heart surgery. I don’t ever see that one becoming a filthy rag, or being used as a dust cloth. No car waxing for it, for it represents something that reminds her of Jesus. For us it is a sign to remind her of my new aorta, of Jesus changing our lives. Of saving mine against all odds. And it gives her a chance to share a testimony of His righteousness. A shirt that will never become like a filthy rag. Not all rags end up dirty. Used yes, but not dirty. Stay clean with Jesus, be cleansed in His blood. Be reminded of His righteousness, not your own. He saved us from the rag bin, the least we can do is wear a clean shirt to remind others.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

take it on the lam Lefty before the chicken potters out

The quickest way to be misquoted is to open your mouth and say anything. Add to that an audience, a few who love to gossip, and those who love to hear it, and you have a recipe for disaster. Then all it takes to push me over the edge is some well meaning person to say “I understand,” and even some rock lyrics make more sense. It is like Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, the king and queen of weird had kids, and taught them to speak. Add a dose of Tom Waits, words from his signature song, “The Piano has been drinking,” and you can feel like he did, “I rather have a bottle in front of me, than a frontal lobotomy.” Get it? If you do, please don’t try to explain...we sure don’t. And maybe we don’t want to know...or are better off not knowing! But for years opinions have been loosely formed on things people said, will say, or never said. It is like all the so-called political pundits explaining what the politicians say-they lie. To each other. Let’s just try and define our economic condition. If my neighbor loses his job, that’s a recession. When you lose yours that’s a depression. When you can pay all your bills, things are doing fine. I just may have to rethink my Neil Young opinion, suddenly he makes more sense than the president!

For years we have been enamored by rock stars, music, and their lyrics. My friend Bruce thought Paperback Writer was Take a Fast Right Turn, I can still hear him singing. Herb Alpert had a hit with “This Guy’s in Love with You,” yet many heard the sky’s in love with you. Heard it through the grapevine? Marvin Gaye or Creedence Clearwater? Even Steve Urkel was known to say “did I do that?” And as Agent Mulder seeks the truth, “the truth is out there,” Scully rolls her eyes, and we have hit show. Or like the prologue to the hit series SOAP, “confused? You won’t be after watching this episode...” Do inquiring minds really want to know? OK, repeat it back to me. OOPS.

So being misquoted is not a new phenomena. It has been going on for years. Centuries actually, and we find it occurring in the oldest book of the Bible, Job. A story that so many theologians, pastors, teachers, and comedians have misunderstood for years. To start with, God has everything under His control. He saw Satan and asked Him if he would consider His servant Job? Satan tried to twist things, and of course the rest is history. But perhaps the most oft quoted person in the story is Mrs. Job, whose single line has brought much wrath upon her for years. Great teachers lambaste her, but very few have tried to see it from her viewpoint. And then they forget her husband’s response. Misquoting him of course. Here’s the scene, Job has been afflicted with boils, sickness, and has lost all his wealth. He was rumored to be among the richest men at the time. His children have died, and he finds himself hurting, and alone. Then his wife enters the room. Seeing him in distress, she utters her famous quote, “give up your integrity, curse God, and die.” Ever feel like that-don’t. But his answer is often forgotten, or again misquoted. He simply told her you sound “like” a foolish woman,” he never accused her of being foolish. He saw her within her situation, for she had lost everything he did, including her children. Would you talk to a widow that way? But he saw through her condition, and how she was acting out of character in her distress. And loved her through it, despite his own misery. A precursor to the words of Jesus who said “greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another.” He simply put her first, and cared for her despite his condition!

Last year when I was life flighted and had open heart surgery, my wife Theresa had to deal with many things. Among them her own emotions, and the fact her husband was dying, and could be dead. But I find that her greater love for me kept me going. I never knew how much she really loved me until the worse part of our vows revealed itself. We all want the better and healthy part of the vows, she was faced with the worst, and death, with unhealthy included. And in my situation, I love her even more. She was truly the brave one through this, I had a staff of doctors and nurses to attend me. She had to run a household, find transportation, resources, a place to live, and deal with Andrew having shoulder surgery-all from 1000 miles from home. Now what was your problem? Do you think she might have some insight to your situation? But she trusted God, and the end result was miracle after miracle. And just like God restored Job everything twice as much, He has rewarded us as such. I don’t get it, but love doesn’t demand of itself, so either should you. Let god be God, it is hard enough to be me sometimes, even in good situations.

Ragland T. Tiger once gave advice to his friends, “take it on the lam Lefty before the chicken potters out.” Leave before it gets worse, or worse yet, someone tries to help and console you, understanding of course. So take my friend Bruce’s advice, and take a fast right turn, turn to God. This guy Jesus is in love with you. So let Him. And reconsider Mrs. Job next time someone tries to help, or you are misquoted. God knows, and will restore you-or even better. Don’t act foolishly, or even be accused of being a fool. My wife had to make many decisions without me by herself, and did a great job. Love will do that to you. Let all your decisions be based on love, no one misunderstands that. Put others ahead of you, seek Jesus first, and watch as He adds everything else. And to all the Mrs. Jobs out there, you had a great husband, who loved you dearly. Make no mistake about that! Wives, and husbands, we should all be so fortunate. I know I am.

Having a bad day? Like God said, “consider my servant Job.” Now put your name in there. Maybe God is bragging on you, maybe for others to see Him in the situation. What you see depends on who you are looking at. Look to Jesus. For where sin abounds, grace abounds even more. Can I hear an AMEN to that?

And with apologies to the Beach Boys, “she’ll have fun, fun, fun till her daddy takes her t-shirt away, or was it tuba?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

ride your own biography

While watching this fourth grade prodigy play classical music on the piano, I was amazed and impressed by it. Her little hands moved so smoothly, yet so fast. She said she practices 2-3 hours each day, and it shows. But to her it may just be a labor of love, rather than “you need to practice your piano. We spent a lot of money on those lessons.” Ever hear that one growing up, or saying it now? But again it appeared to be a labor of love, and I was impressed. More than anything because I have no musical skill, and I get very impressed with those who can do things I wish I could. I was also impressed by her small hands, I never heard of a concerto written for small hands, although on an old Burke’s Law they caught the killer because he had written one for his oversized hands, and his killer was caught because he couldn’t play it, his hands were so small. So rather than write his own, he killed the composer. I guess that makes for a better mystery. And as her hands get bigger she will get better, and hopefully write her own compositions. So much for TV drama.

For years we have been telling people to “ride your own ride.” We all have different skills, and when placed on different bikes will ride different. The old adage about “a good rider on a bad bike is better than a bad rider on a good bike” is true. I have ridden with ape hangers, clubmans, clip-ons, and been comfortable. I have drug foot pegs and floorboards. And had guys ride away from me when I was on a better bike. I didn’t want to kill them, just learn from them. So it is when we talk about rides we’ve taken, it can make a difference on what bike you choose to do it on. I have ridden coast to coast on my old Sprint ST in less than 70 hours. Pretty good I think. I have done 1000 mile days on bikes set up for it.
Then along comes my friend Nathan, founder, president, and all around good guy, of BA-Moto, a group of young guys who ride hard and fast on old school bikes like Bonnevilles. He recently made it into an ad for Triumph called Ride your own biography. Cool title. But he did it by riding his Scrambler to Alaska and back in 10 days-over 4400 miles! No big deal on a Wing, but on a Scrambler, with 50 horsepower, I was impressed. And they camped, except for Hyder in Alaska. Now that impresses me, and while my almost 900 mile day on my Bonneville was impressive, he showed true guts, courage, and a bit of crazy in doing this. Also the bike has over 75,000 miles on it. Still crazy? How far and how many miles do you ride? Just a ride for him, as he has also ridden 1000 mile days on it too. Maybe just like the little girl piano prodigy he is just practicing for his next ride. And he loves it...

When the average rider only rides 6000 miles per year, my 8-11,000 mile trips must seem unbelievable, or a fabrication. But they aren’t, I have done so many, they are just another long ride. “Thank you sir, can I have another?” And whereas we ride 150 miles for a meal, some get tired going 5 miles. I guess we are both riding our own biographies. But when the road calls, you need to answer the call. Too some it is a hardship, my least favorite people are those who complain “I would never do that,” and wonder why we never call them. Or decline when they want to go for a ride. I get the excuses-kids, money, wife who won’t ride, sadly those are choices you made. Don’t divorce her, don’t trade in the kids, and budget some money. Take her out to lunch on a short ride without the kids. Could be the invitation she is just waiting for. And with Valentine’s Day almost here, could be that riding together is the closest she has has hugged you in months. So no excuses...I can’t hear them in my helmet anyway. If her seat is uncomfortable, or you ride too fast for her, try another seat, maybe another bike. Could be the chance to move up you’ve been waiting for. Again too fast on the wrong bike, could be just right if she is comfortable. Ride your biographies together. She could be your next prodigy in waiting, for you just another ride, for her a giant step of faith. Remember your first ride, if you weren’t scared how come you wet your pants? You started out as someone else’s prodigy-the next one to ride. And look at you now.

I am not sure how many centuries prodigies have been around, but it seems each person has someone they aspire to be, or look up to. Then along comes Jesus. Teaching in the temple at age 12, then working as a finishing carpenter until age 30, then ministry for 3 1/2 years. Riding His won biography. Yet I wonder, age age 12 did anyone consider Him to be a prodigy? Who else was ever mentioned that could do what He did? Did He ever attend Bible studies, VBS, or Sunday School? Can you see Him not wanting to go to the temple because a game was on TV? Or it was nice weather to go riding? No, He loved spending time with His Father, and teaching about Him, sharing both of their biographies. He fished, He catered, He healed, He wrote, and He did whatever needed to be done. And enjoyed doing it..he just called it love. A true prodigy, but how many would consider Him one? How many would you consider one of His prodigies? We are always better doing things we enjoy, and it shows. A labor of love. For some we have a passion to ride. For some to play golf-it keeps them off our roads. Some play tennis, some scrapbook, and some watch TV. But how many of us are riding our own biographies based on Jesus? How many want to hang out with Him, and read/study His word? How many hide under the covers on Sunday morning-it never worked for me. So let Jesus give you the desire of your heart, like is promised. Then He will fulfill the desire He has given you. Some bake, and some eat for Jesus. Some teach, some baby sit. Some need to be babysat. Ask Him, and then ask Him to bless your passion. Some of the best Bible teachers I ever heard were full on heathens at one time, until Jesus changed their life. Be true to the passion, be true to the calling Jesus has given you, don’t try to argue with Him. He wins every time, and you don’t have to be a loser.

So next time someone accuses you of riding too fast, maybe they ride too slow. Too far, maybe just not enough. You are inviting me to church? And you want me to go? Consider the fact, why would I want to be like you? If miserable, where is your joy? Too many rules, where is your freedom? Now be the one that Jesus wants you to be, a true ambassador of Christ. Live your passion.

We are all prodigies at one time or another. Become a prodigy of Jesus. Ride your biography with him, and enjoy the ride. Practice, it tends to make perfect. Maybe that week off riding is just what you need to spend with the Lord. All trips begin with the first mile, make it a labor of love. So, was Jesus ever a prodigy? Spend time with Him and find out...the answer might amaze you. As for me and my family..,we ride, therefore we aren’t here. Life may not be a vacation, but you can live it like one. Just don’t make any excuses to Nathan about riding.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

SALT-that was me

As you know I ride a lot, and a lot of different motorcycles. Let’s just call me blessed, because I am. But a few years back when Mickey called it was different. They were making a movie with Angelina Jolie called SALT, and Triumph was loaning them a new Street Triple R for the film. In it she rides for 61 seconds being chased by her former co-patriots. They think she is a spy who betrayed them. But she rides the Stripple in the movie and those wonderful sounds you hear are me. Add that to your pile of who cares, an answer that will never appear on Jeopardy, or win any trivia contests. But riding up to a remote area outside Lancaster, I met two sound men, and made over 100 passes at over 100 mph-and got paid for it! If that sounds lie bragging, it is. Now the sound guys were definitely not motorcycle enthusiasts. They were a little, no a lot nerdish, but we got along fine. He had started reading off a script of sounds he needed, and after a few minutes, I just said, “give me the scenarios, and I’ll ride the bike-you’ll get the sounds. And he did, and I did, and they did. The envelope please, “for most fun had while doing sound for a movie he’ll never go to see...Mike Mohn!”

And I haven’t, because I don’t do movies, old ones yes, black and white, yes. But while on Youtube yesterday, I googled “Triumph Angelina Jolie,” and up it popped-all 61 seconds of it. And to say I was impressed at the riding was an understatement. The plot was a little shaky, but the riding great. And the sound...oh if only I had been there, wait a minute-I was! And after watching it a few times, there is one part that brought a huge smile to my face, and I remembered the sound man’s words, “you’ll be in the theatre, watching the scene, and when you hear it, you’ll want to shout ‘that was me!’” And I found that spot, maybe two second worth, but turned it into many minutes of “that was me.” For one, I was impressed how well the sounds of the Stripple matched the scene, no 27 shifts in three seconds while going 20 mph, they matched. But the sound I remembered was made by riding at him over 100 mph, while he was standing on the shoulder. Then at the last minute, veering away-this guy was tough, or real stupid to be standing like that, and then accelerating away-in various gears. Coming within inhces of hitting him-that’s show biz. I can still remember it, and now I saw the scene-and he was right-that was me. See the movie, or Youtube it, and hear it-that was me! Note at about 45 seconds pay attention, or you’ll miss it.

And no I never met Angelina, although I hear she rides, and never saw the movie until the Youtube excerpt yesterday. But the sound-you had to be there, and now you can. Listen for it, you may have to endure it a few times, but you’ll hear it-music to my ears. And I hope yours. Now it took over 100 passes because I wanted to get it right, and give him sound different sounds to work with, Ok I really was having fun. But once I got into it, I wanted to ride more...and more...and more...

Cut to church on Saturday night-we have an awesome worship team. Led by John Wickham-father of Evan and Phil, he has been around Maranatha Music since the 70’s, and was part of The Way. He not only plays guitar, but is a true musician, which is more than just playing the notes. But this isn’t about him, but the piano player, whose name I don’t know. As I watched his hands on the big screen, they never hesitated, and seemed to flow making music. They were incredible, and it dawned on me he was no beginner. He just didn’t show up and play once a week, but lots of practice at home and with the team. Which to him may not have been practice, but just having fun, like when I was riding. But it showed in his playing, as he added to the music-not drawing attention to himself, or away from others, but bringing harmony. He was in tune with the scene, and thoroughly having fun, true worship is fun, and is more than just singing the words while the correct notes are played. It starts from within and flows, and flows...steady with the throttle hand Mike...

I love to listen-NOT-to actors when nominated for an award, saying the nomination is the award, false. No one sets out to be mediocre, so hide your false humility elsewhere. I also know too many that just come to Christ, and then go on with life, not letting Him be any part of it, except for one hour they begrudgingly give over to church each week, except if there is a game on they want to see, or a ride to ride. Been there, done that-so you’re not alone. But Jesus wants us to have an intimate life with Him, to be included in all things we do. He says He’ll never leave us or forsake us, so He is hanging around waiting for us to welcome Him on the ride, or into our lives. While listening to worship it is more than words and notes-it is music, and to God sounds wonderful. But until we reach heaven, where perfect pitch resides, we will still be making joyful noises, some better than others. But music is more than notes, words, and a good beat. It incorporates all that, and is played from the heart. “If music be the language of love, play on,” the shirts said in the 70’s. And so as I watch some play notes, chords, and struggle, I am amazed at how some have the music flow from them. There has to be a difference, and the spirit makes it. The intimacy of singing to God, of watching the harmonies of song touch our heart brings us together in the spirit. And where the spirit is, there is liberty. And since God is love, maybe music is His language. So play on! All this from a man who cannot paly any instrument, and has trouble tuning a radio. Ah, but the spirit...

So seek Jesus, ask Him into your life, to live with you. To go to work with you, to ride with you, to hang out with you. Hey, I hear He is even cool with going to church. So hang with Him. And find your notes turn into music, words turn into verses, and that your heart is touched by His spirit when you include Him. And at that right moment when you meet Him face to face, you can shout, “that’s me. That’s Him!” But better yet you can shout “that’s us!” I never met Angelina, nor do I care too. But I do know Jesus, and if I met her I would love to share Him with her. Maybe on a pair of Street Triples, out having fun. Making music by twisting a throttle. And neither one will have to ask “are you having fun?” We’ll know. But I’ll know Jesus, and that will make all the difference. Worship by playing the throttle. Let Him make a difference in your music, worship, riding, marriage, work, or life today. And when others hear the testimony, you can say “that was me!” Humbly of course, too bad you can’t brag about how humble you are. So brag on Him, standing or sitting, brag on Him.

Jesus Christ-you had to be there. And now you can.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com