the BMW's that Broke My Wallet, and my heart

Of the five BMW motorcycles I have owned, two of them had their motor come apart internally. On my R90S the bolts holding the flywheel onto he crank failed, and on my R100S both rods came loose from the crank. The R100S had been misdiagnosed by the dealer, replacing a ring and pinion under warranty for me, but accusing me of trying to pull something when BMW wouldn't pay them for parts not faulty. Since it didn't fix the noise either. Within 50 miles of picking it up, the engine came apart, and sat all winter, one giant paperweight of German engineering. And when they wouldn't fix it, and the cost to replace the engine was more than the bike was worth, I quit making payments and had it taken away-repossessed. Couldn't wait to get rid of that piece of junk, that I had once loved-the bike I met my wife on, now just 1000cc of lousy assembly, and bitter memories. And up until this last summer, my only real experience with repossession. Until I visited National Powersports Auction in Poway.

I had been told that this place was huge, but even driving by didn't give you any idea to what was inside. So going in the side door, which was wide open, I took a self guided tour. Which I wasn't allowed to do, and I was asked to leave. Hey, the door was open, why shouldn't I go in? But before I did, while inside noted some interesting observations. This is a 50,000 square foot building, with motorcycles packed in so tight you have small rows to walk between. I counted 191 Harleys in one section alone, a few Triumphs, lots of sport bikes, and the majority cruisers. Don't even ask about the watercraft which were piled 5 high, and even the semi flatbeds full of them lining the street. Something was seriously wrong. And as I looked around, maybe eyeing a bike for a great deal, I was told that all the units in there were repossessed. I would guess thousands of bikes, and all there because someone didn't or couldn't make the payments. But much different than my basket case BMW, many of these bikes were in good shape. Many had new tires, and you could tell they had been taken care of, until it was time to part with them. A relationship between man and machine severed due to I can't afford it any more. But a new type of repo, one that was in good shape, and not trashed.

Foreclosed houses are being found in the same condition. Where friends of mine used to buy repos, and spend time cleaning and repairing, now some are purchased ready to resell or rent, the pride of ownership still present after the family is gone. A new type of poor sweeping the nation. And in San Diego, self billed as America's Finest City-says so right there on the police cars-and truly is, is experiencing a dangerous downward trend. In a metro area of about 2 million people, it is the fastest growing city to fall below the poverty level in the United States! And I wonder how can that be? The Charger QB is making $91 million over the next seven years. There are three Mercedes Benz and five BMW dealers, how can this be? Where did the money go? How can we be so broke, when so many have so much? Am I missing something here? Help! I still have checks left, I can't be broke!

But maybe we really are broke. Perhaps like my R100S motor, the problem has been misdiagnosed. Where we have evidence of one thing, the cause is really much deeper within. A spiritual poverty. And as a people who tend to treat a symptom, we have missed the cause. Perhaps a lesson from history is in order. The Roman Empire was thought to be unstoppable in war-their warriors and armies the best. But unfortunately, they rotted from within. Lack of morals, the last 20 of 24 emperors being homosexuals, and thought to be God, found their selves mortal. And we have the same problem here in the US today. "God must love us, and we must be doing ok, look at my new house, cars, and look at my 401k! Even gave some money to the church last year, Easter or Christmas, one of the two. I can't believe he would desert me now, I haven't done anything wrong." When in truth you never had a relationship with Him. God works from the inside out, we look from the outside, never looking within. We look to the things which are seen-houses, cars, boats, etc., but God tells us to look for the things that are not seen-they are the ones that are eternal. "These things shall follow them that believe," God says.Which things? Love. A relationship with God, that flows down into your family, then your kids at school, and into the workplace. Morals-expressed by your character-who you are when no one is looking at you, or your possessions. And it takes Jesus, without Him you have nothing. And as was so aptly expressed in Best Years of Our Lives by Dana Andrews, when tearing apart old B52's after the war, "the junkman ultimately gets everything." Planes that won the war, now junk. And he gets the cars that you couldn't live without, the house you couldn't afford, and the motorcycles and boats that you thought would bring happiness. Now junk. We're looking for an emotional response from an inanimate object, and then feeling selfish remorse when it can't. Who is your God? Is he alive, and bought and paid for like Jesus, or is it losing value as you make payments on it-hoping to be employed next week so you can keep up the payments? Do you own it or does it own you? Do you treasure values or valuables? Are your treasures values-or valuables? Which are you leaving to your kids as a legacy or inheritance?

America's finest city is broke, and it can't pay its bills. So it will continue to lay the burden of taxes on its citizens, while still spending out of control. The word missing here is sacrifice-and we won't until our valuables are pried from our hands. John 3:16 tells of God's ultimate sacrifice-giving up of His son. What have you given up for your family? For your God? Is your life about to occupy a giant warehouse leaving you empty? If your wealth is based on things, you are already broke-you just don't know it. But it isn't to late to invest in God. Repent today, and turn to Him. See the values in living a Godly life, in a relationship with Him. Set a trend for family and friends of a real investment, a real relationship, where your values bring joy that the valuables can't. Freedom/liberty when in the spirit of the Lord. Something that cannot be taken away, or replaced. More than you deserve, and more than you could ever imagine. Blessings beyond expectation, and a relationship with an eternal God, eternally. Turn to Him today.

Where you store your values is up to you. What things if taken from you today would you really miss, or try to replace? Is your garage full and your heart empty? Making payments but not owning anything? Your life just a lease, renting until you have the funds to own, which you never will. Do your dreams change with each new model year? Or have you turned to Christ? I find a full heart sure beats a full, old warehouse/auction. Fill your heart with hope instead of your life with broken dreams. Jesus Christ-a hope for the future. And a hope for today. Life abundant-remember you could be riding-not remembering. Don't invest your future in a warehouse of broken dreams. Right now are the good old days-don't miss them.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

a twist of the wrist

My first bike was a 1972 CB350 Honda. At the time, it accounted for over half of Honda's US sales, and came in three versions-from dirt to street, the CB being the street. For all of it 325cc it made about 25 horsepower, fast when you considered its weight. And faster than all but the fastest Muscle car at the time. But as we all know, you cannot have enough power, and after 6 months and over 6500 miles, I sold it and bought an R60/5 BMW. Not a powerful bike, but with 50 hp much quicker than the Honda. And when I first opened the throttle, BMW used to use this stupid throttle, to open it full you had to turn it one and a half times, it shot forward-the extra 20 horses almost throwing me off the bike. Does the word road apple mean anything to you? And repeating this through all four gears. And as the bystanders gaped, I very uncooly went down the road. The bike riding me. Makes you wonder, why can someone who hasn't ridden, know that you can't either when you ride like this?

Two years, and 25,000 miles later, after it was totaled in Florida, I got an R90/6, with 65hp, and in the three days I had it, didn't repeat the throttle show-it got totaled, too, before I could. After healing, and getting my legs back, I bought an R90S, the biggest and baddest BMW ever built. 77horsepower, and it would fly-as I would find out. And leaving 441 Cycle in Florida, I opened the throttle too much, and repeated my R60 adventure, this time much faster, and with more power-truly God was with me. 100mph comes up quicker when you are young and stupid-the stupid being the enduring trait. Many unfortunately, never got the chance to be old and stupid. Poor throttle control.

But I learned to ride that bike, and when to use the power. BMWs are known for soft suspensions, and would rise when the gas was applied, giving you more ground clearance in corners, and bragging to others that is why your superlative skills allowed you to not scrape the side stand or cylinder heads sticking out. Never admitting that fear took over long before common sense or physical law kicked in, but you sounded cool. And since no one else rode BMWs, you were safe in the fact that they couldn't prove you wrong. The advice for too fast into a corner of keep leaning is true, and was used to my success, and survival many times. But the point here is throttle control-knowing when to apply power-and not.

Life is like this too. And God tells us the fruit of the spirit is meekness, not weakness. Power under control, not doing the wrong thing when it would be ok to do it. For example, you lend money to a friend, something God tells you not to do, and they renege on the deal. You can sue, but don't, wishing your witness to carry more weight than the money lost, and hopefully restoring a brother. Or, when you get cut off on the highway, just staying out of their way, rather than chasing them down and telling them how stupid they are. And finding they have a gun, and may not be under control. And giving them the chance to run their 4000lb. car at you again. It is doing a better thing, when you can do what the world expects. I have learned this from experience, and wish I had listened so as to not have the bruises and scars to prove it. Galatians 5 tells us the FRUIT-not fruits, of the spirit are love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, longsuffering(not my favorite), meekness, and self control. There is no law against these things. They are individual, but act together as one. When you are under control, emotionally, spiritually, and physically-you can be meek, your power is under control. It allows you to suffer for someone, or something, being patient while not demanding your own way, but waiting for God's plan to unfold. You can be kind, and not rude-pray for the jerk that just cut you off, and stay out of his way-a warning from God so he can't hit you. Goodness will be displayed by doing the right thing,and maybe shocking others. "Isn't that the same guy who goes by at 100? What's different about him?" A good chance to share Jesus. You learn patience, looking both ways as the light turns green-did you know that wherever a stop light camera has been placed accidents have increased? Look both ways, and in your mirror too. R90/6 accident for example.

You feel a joy, not the emotion of happiness, but joy knowing God is with you. It is his presence, not the absence of pain that is true joy. Never leaving you, but always there. Joy is why people who know your physical, emotional, and financial state can not understand how you get through. To them we appear crazy, or careless, but really it is joy, and being carefree. Are you wearing Jesus' colors, His yoke? Your fruits will tell the truth. And finally these all make up love-who is God, and as we abide in Him we become like Him, showing these characteristics to the world.

Today the 77 hp of the R90s is less than any 600, by 30 horses. My friend Ray's Hayabusa has over 180hp, now that takes some throttle control! The amount of power shown in your walk with God will reflect your throttle hand. How do you use it? When? When 0-100 can come up in 6 seconds, the time it takes to read this sentence, you better be in control. And know where all the controls are. So many accidents can be avoided by just pulling in the clutch. Too fast, pull it in. Apply some brakes. The ride of life is an endurance, not a 1/4 mile drag. Finishing requires meekness, that power under control, and knowing when to open it up, or when to shut it down. Like a throttle, life is adjustable-learn how to apply the power and grace that only God can offer today.
As bikers, we know every car and every cop is out to get us. And as Christians we know there is always someone just waiting to see us screw up. Meekness, throttle or power under control. Bear some fruit-and use the money you save on tickets to buy more motorcycles! Have the ride of your life-in Jesus. Look at his hands, the nail marks show His power under control. For God so loved bikers, He gave His only son, and not just you bikers, but everyone who takes a breath. Be cool-be under control. Be meek-remember it is those of us who are meek who inherit the earth. And I have plans for it, wide roads, sweeping curves, no cars... be there to enjoy it!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

we're riding our children's inheritance-standing on the solid rock

There was a popular bumper sticker back in the 1980's. It was often found on motor homes, and said "we're spending our children's inheritance!" And they were! And rightfully so! A generation that had endured the great depression, survived WWII, and the Korea Conflict, and who had managed to somehow get through all the changes of the '60s, was now enjoying life, and the rewards that retirement had to offer. A unique generation, one that actually had retirement benefits, something their parents could only have dreamt about. They were able to retire at 65, or 62 if they wanted, and could do all the things they had dreamt about while still young enough to enjoy them, and could afford them. And I could remember the advice we were given by our parents, "work hard, get an education, get a good job, marry the right girl, and save a little money and everything would turnout alright." And for many in this generation, things did.

Fathers actually stayed with the same company for their working lifetime. It was not unusual for a man to work 35-40 years for the same employer, raising up from clerk to assistant manager, to manager, to vice president to president. I knew men only 10 years ago who worked over 40 years and had accomplished this goal. It was the American dream, it was a God given right, and in the land of opportunity and prosperity, something was the matter with you if you didn't. And because of their work ethics, now could enjoy the fruits of their labors. And we all wanted to be like them, for these were good and moral desires. Prosperity brought a type of security. The company I worked for would be there for me, and generally it was.

It was virtually unknown to me and my friends of anyone who came from a divorced family. And kids were looked down on, as if it was their fault and something was the matter with them if they did. Mom's stayed home, met you after school with cookies, and took care of the home. Dad's left early, and got home late, with dinner waiting. Boys played baseball, and fathers could always find time to get to your game. Girls were cheerleaders, yelling for the boys, and we loved it, even though it would take us into our teen years to admit it. We were all defined by who we were, and what we were. But things were about to change. We were all unequal, and enjoying the roles life had given us. we just didn't know it. It would take equality to show us how good we had it.

Slowly Coca Cola introduced youth soccer to the US, and now boys and girls played sports. Girls had basketball leagues, and some were better than their male counterparts. Boys could become cheerleaders and moms didn't stay home, but had what they called a career, as if motherhood and raising a family while maintaining the home wasn't one. They got jobs, and the family unit slowly dissolved, and so did their dreams. They were wasting their inheritance, the values inherited from their parents, and in an indulgent, me first generation would leave nothing for their children to inherit. And sadly, we are spending our children's inheritance today, leaving them with the debt as our legacy to them, for our lifetime of work.

In California, the average person changes jobs every two years. Nationwide you will have 10 jobs before you retire at 65, if you can afford to. Currently nationwide, there are 600 people for each job advertised, I shudder to think what it is in Detroit, where they have 28% unemployment. There is no inheritance anymore. We have lost sight of our dreams, and lost our vision. Bobby Kennedy, a liberal in his day, who would be a conservative today, said "You see things as they are, and say why? I see things as could be and say why not?" And as we try to understand what went wrong, we seek answers, that just aren't there. How can we be secure in an insecure world? What is it going to take for us to seek God?

God tells us that the people perish for lack of a vision. And we have lost our vision, after a generation of myopic values. Prosperity, or the desire for it brought about hope, and the promise of security. I will do better than my parents, and parents encouraged it because they wanted their kids to. Not an if, but a when attitude. Sacrifices would be made so they could have an education, and many took advantage of it. Only to find it today's economy the rules have all changed. But God's haven't. He tells us that as the inner man prospers, then does the outer man. That prosperity comes from God, and like the Doxology says we should "praise God from whom all blessings flow." He tells us to seek Him with all our hearts, for He has plans for a prosperous future for us. To seek Him first, then all these other things will be added. And all the time He talks to us about spiritual things, while all we can see is the physical. A security denied, because we can't spend it-yet.

And as the rain continues to fall on the just and the unjust, he still desires us to seek Him, and be prosperous. God is above the questionable economy, and our questionable morals. He hasn't changed, and won't. And that is a good thing. And He isn't spending our inheritance, but still adding to it in heaven for those who believe. He tells us the things seen are temporal, the things not seen are eternal. And right now we are in a heavy overdose of temporal. A right now, what can you do for me mentality. And unless we turn, and repent, as individuals, and a nation-and a planet, we are doomed. There is no inheritance of man other than death, and all the frustrations that go with it. Jesus still saves-and in today's economy that is a solution we all should be seeking. But it starts with you-and a choice to make. Who's inheritance will you be spending?

Today is the day of salvation-trust God. Your government is proving daily it can't provide, or give you a future. 401k's are now 201k's, the home of your dreams is worth half of what you paid for it, and your college education can't even get you a job at Wal-Mart-as a greeter. The things of the world and its values are fading, while God's are still desirable. They are love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, meekness, long suffering, and self control. And when applied with a relationship with Him, bring eternal rewards, and prosperity along the way. And a security that the world and all it insecurities cannot duplicate, but can counterfeit-if only for awhile.

A long term contract, with a no-cut clause included. A prosperity truly worth leaving for your kids to inherit. Security in the fact that God honors His contracts-and His contacts. Start enjoying your inheritance today.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

less filling. tastes great? this Bud's for you!

Frank C.'s choice of painkillers was alcohol. And his pain was so great that he used to mainline vodka directly into his stomach to get his buzz. The most extreme alcoholic I ever saw, and yet I know Frank didn't set out to be one. A gifted musician and good friend, he started with just a few, and escalated from there. When I last saw him he was a lost, lonely, and broken person. And my heart still breaks for him.

No one sets out to be an alcoholic-"I can control my drinking they say." And finally when their family and careers are in ruin do they listen. I was reminded of this fact today as another good friend, a brother, has succumbed to drink. And so far it has only cost him his family, his wife is filing for divorce and taking the kids, and his business, which is doing great in this economy will also suffer. All because he just had to have a drink.

Thirty years ago Theresa and I gave up drinking-pouring a full quart of Cuervo Tequila and a case of Busch beer down the sink. No waiting until it was gone-we stopped NOW! And haven't touched it since. The first reason was it was hurting our Christian witness. We cared more that someone would see Jesus in us than the freedom to drink would give us-and we can drink-we choose not to. I also want nothing to get between me and God, our relationship is that important. And like I told my son Christopher the other night-I want nothing to come between us. How would both of us feel if he needed me and I had been drinking and couldn't help? A question I never want to answer. So I don't-drink. And any one of the above reasons is good, and the rewards great.

As I sat in court supporting a couple whose son is on trial, alcohol induced problems, I talked to another man, Eldon, who was going to court. A Christian man, who only drank once, and got caught for a DUI that has ruined his life. Professionally his underlings can't look up to him, he had been demoted. The court knew of him, and now his reputation is damaged-they can't believe he got drunk. Imagine what his witness is like to those lost? Thank you sir, may I have another? Will we ever get it?

And as I deal with men and women whose families, careers, and lives are in ruin, I wonder is it worth it? Not for me. And like I shared with a girl at the Honor Run, she asked if I could drink in my club? Are there rules? My answer-no rules, I can if I want. I can also cheat on my wife, do drugs, and break any laws I want to. My answer was simple-and is simple. I CHOOSE NOT TOO! It is a choice. And based on basic business principals, I.e. if your opponent is drinking-don't. It gives you an edge. As Larry Peoples, hit man and now saved by the grace of God tells girls-DON'T! Don't put yourself in a position where you can be taken advantage of. Good advice from a man who killed 28 for profit, and 7 for revenge. But now saved by grace.

You only drink to get a buzz. Sorry-no excuses. And the breweries know it. Six packs replaced by 12 and 24 packs. Liquor by the half gallon, wine by the case. And eventually it leads to ruin.

Have you ever met a person who was a total loser, then becoming a drunk saved his life? Or made it better? Or just had a few before bed? Or killed a bottle of wine with dinner? Stop the excuses and turn it over to Christ. I did 30 years ago with no regrets. No hangovers, no DUI, no ruined relationships or careers because of it. Today I love the sinner, but hate the sin. I do not condone it, but will not condemn you either. You will be caught in your own sin-just like the Bible says.

Good Lord it's morning-or good morning Lord tell about last night. I like falling asleep with God, and then seeing him first thing in the morning. Beer didn't make Bud wiser, just richer. Start your own savings plan today with the money you used to drink with. Could just be enough for that new chrome thingie you desire for your Harley-or the new ride you desire. Ride safe and sober. Stupid hurts, don't let it kill and destroy. Self induced stupidity is the worst. Let your friends accuse you of self proclaimed smarts. And you can be there for them, just like Jesus-when you are needed. Do not be deceived-bad company corrupts good morals. Be a good company-and stay in good company, with Christ.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

season's greetings

While you were sound asleep last week, a major change took place and you may not have realized it. Summer ended, and fall began. Although here in So Cal with 100 degree heat we may gloss over it, other states with real seasons have noticed. Trees change, leaves fall, we go to bed earlier because it is dark-although it is only 900pm it seems like midnight, and it is just as dark now when we wake up. But fall can also be exciting-baseball winds down, and the World Series is only a month away, Monday Night Football begins, hockey and basketball are to start soon, and the riding season gets shorter for many. But let me take you back to a season of an 11 year old-back in the day as they call it now, or old school, because no one wants to go to a new one.

As much as you wish it wouldn't end, summer does. No more late nights out under the streetlights talking or sleeping out, school has begun and your mindset has changed, slowly. School means seeing friends you may not have seen all summer, seeing who is in your class, and the ever important decision of who to sit next to, if it isn't assigned. Boys have grown taller, and girls have grown-elsewhere. And for the first time you notice, hopefully without getting caught. Classes jockey for kickball supremacy and new friendships are formed.

But for young, and old car nuts, fall means new cars. And back in the day, it was a special event. When people used to buy a new car every other year, trading they called it, the dealers would cover the front windows, and the new cars world come covered on trucks, then covered in a yard until the special unveiling. And special it was, as there would be spotlights, school bands, food, and even the mayor might speak, as the new cars of your dreams would be uncovered. No spy shots or internet-you would truly see them for the first time that night-and would die to have a new one. In 1965 that meant Mustangs, Chevy Impala SS with their new fastback styling, and GTO's. Engines with 426, 396, and 389 cubic inches, and power to match. Cars with more horsepower than you could handle-or so the ads would say. Cars with Flash o Matic transmissions, Get Away Power, and Vibra Fonic sound to listen to the Beatles and the Four Seasons. The old was old, and the new was new, and we looked forward to it all, even though summer was gone. And even though the owners of that new convertible would have to wait to put the top down till spring, they could listen to all the someday to be oldies with the top up. And GM was in jeopardy of being broken up, as they had over 50% of the new car market. Cool guys rode Triumphs, and cops rode Harleys. The nicest people were on Hondas, and you could Solo Suzuki-whatever that was. You looked forward to tomorrow because all the promises of today wouldn't fit into it.

In 1969 Honda blew our minds with a four cylinder 750 with a front disc brake-these were only found on race bikes. Triumph and BSA tried to sell faster, but uglier triples-the Trident and Rocket 3. Harley soldiered on , but with a 1000cc Sportster-still the fastest thing on two wheels. SS396s ruled, GTO and Boss Mustangs were the hot set up, and $2 to cruise all night was in-check the gas and fill the oil for many of my friends. It was also the year the Mets won the World Series, and the Jets were to win the Super Bowl, upsetting both worlds forever. We had walked on moon, and the Aquarian Arts Festival had transformed a generation-Woodstock for you not in the know. And as the fall season began, high school, and a whole new set of rules, and girls.

Seasons. Your life is seasonal, and many seasons are undefined. Some you know are coming, and many arrive unannounced. They may have begun suddenly, and they have no ending date. When I lost my job last year, I met with Miles, and we talked of seasons. I am in a season now of no income, but ministering more than ever. And loving life more than ever. A season, that if it ends, I wish to look back and say I enjoyed it. But for many, unemployment has meant hardship. No paycheck, foreclosure, and bankruptcy rear their ugly heads. But for those of us in Christ, this is a season to get out and share the gospel-not that it isn't all the time. But if God has allowed you time off, use it for His benefit. Visit nursing homes, get involved in a Bible study, and go to the church-see how you can minister, believe me, there is always something there that needs to be done. Be part of the solution-as we used to say, and not part of the problem. Spend time with your kids, the time you needed with them has been afforded you now. Someday soon they may not want their uncool dad to hang with them. Spend time with your wife-have intimate times together and do things around the house for her-while she gets used to you being in the way. Don't look at yourself in your misfortune, but in the time God has given you to grow, to be more of the man He desires of you. Hope is a season that has no end. Take time to ride-roads are empty during the week, and maybe meet others in your situation-minister to or with them. Let this be an exciting time like new car announcements-or like when you first saw the new Z-1! Or R90S! Let it be a time that you can't wait until the next day, so you can start it all over again. This can be the best season of your life-don't blow it! Thank God for it and be blessed.

But Mike, I need a job. No, you have needs, and need an income. God will provide, unless you think He doesn't know what is going on. Maybe your faith in the economy is more than your faith in Him. Use this time to change that-and be blessed. In your life you will encounter, and endure many seasons. But one season will endure forever-those who have given their lives to Jesus. And when you have, all the other seasons are better, and the new ones more exciting. He adds life-abundantly. And you don't have to wait for the new cars to arrive-or spring to enjoy the top down and wind in your hair. Life in Him is exciting-right now! In the day for Christians is happening right now! Don't miss it! For another season is coming-read 2Peter 3, and really get excited.

If you still get excited over a 4-speed, dual quad, Positraction 409, stay excited, Drive it more, and listen to those 4 barrels open up. If your old Bonneville still excites you, tickle the carbs until your shoes are wet, clear the clutch, and start it on the first kick. Feel the wind in your face, and God in your soul. Get out and enjoy the season-for we do no know what tomorrow may bring. Make today the best day you ever had, and allow God to share it with you. He may have allowed this season just for the two of you to spend more time together! See the USA, with God today! Heaven awaits. Enjoy your seasons of the soul, today.

love with compassion,

Mike

the longest day

It was 1030pm, CST, when I rolled into my motel in Oklahoma City. It was Saturday night, and I had left home Friday at 530pm, PST. In the past 27 hours since leaving home in Escondido, I had travelled through three time zones and five states. I had slept at my motel in Kingman, AZ. for seven hours, fully refreshed, had heat as hot as 120 degrees on the Chiarico Summit, and ridden the last 300+ miles in the rain. I had ridden my Sprint ST 1125 miles in the first 24 hours, and over 1325 miles total when I hit the bed in OK City that night. Not a bad first day for a trip, and as I looked at the map of the US, I found myself almost in the middle of it. And looking back over the days ride, realized I had put more states, rain, and time zone in one day than most bikers do in a lifetime. So, how was your day?

This past Saturday we attended a rally in Escondido for Set Free Ministries. They take people from the street, and tell them about Jesus. Then train them up so they can tell others. As I looked at the young men, who recently had been selling and doing drugs, all tattooed up, raising their hands in praise to the Lord, I realized how far they had come, too. A life changed by Christ, something that no social or government program could do, had made freaks into people. People that may not be welcomed in Main St. churches, but who love the Lord more than many who just fill pews and call themselves Christians. As we listened to the music, and testimonies of families reunited, relationships repaired, and lives changed, I knew that the ministry to be among them is where God wants me. I feel so at home among these brothers and sisters. I also feel welcome wherever the church is gathered, but somehow to see how far they have come, thrills my soul. These people I once would have crossed the street to avoid, now they will be my neighbors in heaven. Consider that next time we make a quick judgment based on looks, Jesus loves them as much as He loves you! I know they look back and see how far they have come, and never want to go back.

As I laid out my map that night, I contemplated my next day's ride, an easy 969 miles to Lexington ,Kentucky. Another day of rain through the entire state of Missouri, and then clouds and high humidity the rest of the way. Adding to my total in 51 hours I had traveled over 2300 miles. And would finish the next day with a short run of 700 to my parent's house in New Jersey. Just under 3200 miles by the end of the trip there. Within 70 hours I had seen both coasts, 15 states, and had the ride of my life. I will never forget the biker who ran the Sunoco station in West Virginia where I stopped Monday morning for gas. He told everyone who came in how I had been in California that Friday night, and here this Monday morning. Even impressed me as I listened. And reflected.

I also thought of the road ahead for those who have had their lives changed by Jesus Christ. Before life was just a repeat of yesterday-another time to get high and scam others-a time to blame the world for their condition. But now they faced life knowing that God would guide them through, they had a purpose and reason to live. As families would reunite they would grow in the Lord, and kids who once just wondered the streets, now had parents to come home to. And wanted to. All because Jesus Christ had entered their life. Like the old Bill Gaither song-Because He Lives, we can face tomorrow. Better yet, we can face today. And look forward to it-never alone. And on the offense rather than defense. Because He lives, all fear is gone. And we know He holds the future. And life is worth the living. And I was reminded of all this on a 100+ degree day by a group of ex-addicts, junkies, and criminals, who had come to Christ.

Maybe you have led a good life, but know something is missing. It is really a someone, and He wants to show His love to you. Trust Jesus today, and let Him into your life. Just as I read the maps at night, and see how far I have gone, it also shows me how far I have to go. So ease up, we all aren't as perfect as you-yet! And I never ride alone, no matter how small the group of one is-Jesus is always with me. Whether cross country or across the street, he is ever present. Before you leave the house today-ask Him to guide your steps, and enter your life. Feel a freedom that you never knew existed before. And if you already have given your life to Him, realize the pressures that face you today are already answered by Him before you have prayed about them. He loves you that much. If you believe in Him start acting like you do!

1000 mile days are milestone in a biker's life. I do 600 mile days as a standard any more. But the more I ride, the more I never ride alone. Time well spent with the Lord, riding with me. Through the storms of life or weather, in traffic or between problems, you are never alone.

Thanks to the Set Free Ministries, who God has given this ministry of love and hope. There are many others out there, some known, some not-but God sees them all. That is what Matthew 25 Biker is all about. Ministering. Just like Jesus wants us to do in Matthew 25. Feeding, giving water, visiting in jail and hospitals, and taking in strangers. All in His name. Taking care of the Lazarus He has placed in our lives, so they may know that Jesus loves them too. Meeting the need in Jesus name. WE share with the least, which is the same as doing it for Him. Because He lives, we can face tomorrow. To ride. Or just be wherever He wants you. See you on the coast, just not sure which one. Or even in between, I may the guy riding solo, but not alone. Jesus Christ changes lives-let Him change yours today!

Even a short day riding with Him is better than a long trip without Him! Be set free, no one else can make that claim except for Christ. Free at last!

Oh, and my trip. After meeting Theresa at my parents house, we rode over 7500 miles in the next two weeks, through 28 states. And greater rides were to come, and still are!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the $64,000 question-are we one nation under God?

When we lived in Durango I used to work for Coke. Part of my route took me onto the Jicarilla Apache Reservation in Dulce, New Mexico. A beautiful area, 60 miles from anywhere and with a very business like tribe running it. The reservation just happened to be partly on the Gobernador natural gas field, at the time the second largest in the US. And two times a year, if you were at least 1/8 Jicarilla you got a bonus check. That means if your great-great grandfather was Jicarilla, and had married a non-Jicarilla, you would qualify. And each one in your immediate family. In dollars and cents it meant that twice a year, each member of your family got a check. And in the early eighties each portion was worth about $8000. For a family of four, that meant $32,000, times two times year or $64,000 a year. When the average income was about $21,000, this was big bucks! And for no more than your heritage!

When this would happen there would be a spending spree there. Even car dealers from Santa Fe would bring pickups and park them along the highway-only requiring a thumbprint and an X to get a new truck. And if the check was not big enough to cover it, you signed a contract. No credit checks, as the Jicarillas had a rule, if you wrote a bad check, they held your bonus until it was taken care. Everybody would take a Jicarilla check-it was like a golden guarantee! And at your next bonus the finance company got paid before you got your next check.

But it also led to poverty, as the money many times went to drugs, and alcohol. And since you didn't have to work, many didn't. There was no incentive, so they became lazy. Even to the point of destroying a beautiful lodge they had built-no one would work it, and when no one came, they vandalized it. Imagine the scene-a lodge on a lake among the evergreens in the mountains-clean air, clean water, and no people. Just graffiti and broken glass-how sad. And this reflected many lives there. But the few who lived and ranched there did well-as the few bad always seem to outweigh the majority of good.

There is coming a time, after the rapture called the great tribulation-times so tough that they have never been seen on earth, and will never be duplicated. And to buy anything you will have to give allegiance to a man-who will claim to be God. And take his mark, the mark of the beast if you want to purchase anything. The technology for this mark, which will be imbedded in your right hand or forehead, is already in place. Chips in your dog, horse, etc, are already common. Some communities already want to place them in children to track them-sounds good, but wait, there's more. Companies in England are making them right now-wonder how they will do in the rain? Hopefully they will be Lucas chips. But seriously, those non-Christians left behind, and not saved after the rapture, will be required to take this mark. If not-they will guillotine your head off. No down to 1/8 allegiance-100% or death. And the signs of this coming are in place. And I believe God has put out warnings to the world of the next major events in world history.

It warns of the spirit of antichrist-anti meaning instead of Christ. And a scary example is socialism-let government, a man based and inspired system take care of me. Whether UI checks, food stamps, or any of the dozens of entitlements, anything that makes you depend on someone other than God. And once you are hooked, you can become a socialized government junkie. They tell you what is best, who to marry, when you need health care, where to live, and work if necessary. And like a sign in the Southern Ute Indians tribal office says, "if you take away a man's desire to work, you take away his desire to live." There is no free lunch, the bill will come due someday.

And like the Jicarillas, there will be nice people who will pay the price for the many who turn against God, and live subsidized. And in a generation or two, you have become a socialized society, and your freedoms are gone. The government owns you.

But to those who choose God, the treasures begin to become of our lives now. We will be taken out and miss the great tribulation. No marks for us, God will already have marked us for heaven. No government of man telling us how to live-we serve a benevolent despot, a king who loves his people and does the best for them, even at his expense. It is called love, and Jesus loves you-so much He died to make the way back to God and heaven available to all. And no matter where you live, how you earn your income, or your ancestry, he is ready to accept you in-now! Repent, turn from the world and turn to Jesus. Ask Him into your life, and earn bonus checks right away. With one condition-they're paid in heavenly dividends, and we will be rewarded when we get to heaven. As for now, He places us in the world to bring this message to others. And meets our needs while we are here. No thumbprint, no X. Just his nail pierced hands, holding onto you until you sit with Him in heaven.

Today is the day of salvation-start your investment now. Dividends, bonuses, and eternal life. Plus a peace that the world would never see. And no chips or marks. His name will be written in your heart, and your name in the book of life.

The warnings are there. Where are you with Jesus? Who you choose to worship and serve will tell your ultimate outcome. Don't have to say "I wished I had listened." It will be too late. Find God-now! Let's pray.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com