we should have seen it coming

Buddy Miles sings "my mind is going through these changes..." The Chambers Brothers sing "that change has had to come..." Bowie sang "time may change me, but I can't change time..." And Santana told us "you've got to change your evil ways, baby..." And as we have been shown quite enough of for the past two years, change can a difference. Ahem...

I worked for a national company once, who was super successful, and people stayed for 40-50 years. The company was even referred to affectionately as Ma, and took care of its own. A family of 3000, that was successful to a man, or woman. Then they were sold a bill of goods, by a management team, telling how business in the 90's would be different. Technology, new management principals, and a new way to do business, and they would lead the way. And within 90 days of the new plan, the company was in turmoil. Communication lines were severed, the management was out of touch-inaccessible, and running for their careers, and we went through CEO's at a rapid rate. Good employees, who bought into the new corporate mantra, were ostracized, when the imminent disaster became imminent. Men who had been successful, suddenly were stumbling around, not sure of how to do business. The product hadn't changed, but the way of doing business had. And it cost sales, destroyed careers, confused the customer base, and took an industry leading company to its knees. Our competitors loved it, they swooped in and took away accounts, long time customers, who were used to a person, not a procedure. The only winners-the lousy management group that sold them this bill of goods. And then the excuses flowed, and we were told that it was just your perspective. The emperor really did have new clothes. And if you didn't like it, leave. So over 1500 men did. And took their business contacts with them. Leaving those remaining but a shambles. Shaken, and stirred.

At about the same time, the church I was attending was growing. In particular the men's fellowship. And the growth in the men spiritually was noticeable, and it flowed into their business lives and their families. But with success, came a new man into the group. Who knew people, celebrities. And told us that there was a better way, and got some excited. There were Christian Padres, and would come and speak. For a price. And so the plan was implemented. Where we would have 50-75 men to a meeting, the numbers dropped. The free meal, now was $7, and some didn't have it. You see we were hungry for Jesus, not some pitcher signing autographs. Charging for something that was free was an offense, and like a bad movie, many got up and left. And didn't return. The reply, "well if you want better speakers you must pay for them." I don't remember Jesus charging for any speaking engagements. The focus went from Jesus, to the celebrities, and them instead of the Bible. And men quit coming, and were upset, but no one listened to their cries. This fellowship that had been productive, and kept men in the word, suddenly was ruined by one bad decision, and a pastor that rather have his ears tickled, then his flock fed. You didn't like the new way, complainers, they were labeled. And finally this man had such an impact on the pastor, that his messages changed. And when he was caught lying from the pulpit, it was time for us to leave. Right before he was shown the door. And that church has never recovered in almost 20 years! Such a deal for only $7.

The world is invading the church. Programs, procedures, rules, and regulations. Movies and technology dominate the latest generation, and without an entertainment value, they think who will come. Funny, the message stays the same, why do they change? And we end up confused, and looking for somewhere else where we can be fed. And the world? We not only let it in, we invited it in, and then shut the doors behind it. It can't leave. And the enemy sleeps better that night, knowing that his job is going well. With a little help from his enemies...

Billy Graham has been successful for over 60 years, keeping the message the same, the gospel. Not charging, not selling programs, not introducing new procedures. Just speaking the timeless gospel in love. For free, just like Jesus. Why mess with success?

Success has been defined as the completion of a preset goal. Beware of this. Success in God's eyes is obedience. Numbers are not important, Christianity should not be a numbers based, performance based relationship. When it is reduced to that, you've already lost. Ask yourself, has that truth set you free? Jesus does.

Be as gentle as a lamb, but as wily as a serpent, the Bible advises. And it is good advice, but only if taken. All things are not profitable, and in the end the Word will endure. Don't be left standing without it. Man plans, and God laughs. Church leaders take note-your congregation is! Feed your flock, we are hungry!

Bob Dylan wrote "the times they are a changin'," aren't you glad the gospel hasn't? And at prices you can afford!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

your life-a maze or amazing grace

Did you ever wonder about the signs that say SLOW CHILDREN? What makes them slow? Is there something the matter with them? And, do they grow up into slow adults?

One of my favorite Bible stories is about Dagon, a pagan god, and the people that worshipped him. And how when put to the test, was found every morning to have fallen from his perch. This carving, if you will, their god, had fallen down, and had to be picked up and set back on his pedestal. Now what kind of god is it that can fall and then have to be picked up by his worshippers. Is there something wrong with this picture?

A man gives his all for his job. Works late, goes in early. Misses kids games, family functions, and puts the job first. Spends vacations taking home work. Lives for the company. And then one day, he is laid off. His god, the thing he lived for, deserting him, when he needs it most. Not there to pick him up. An outsider. Is there something wrong with this picture?

The man's has two classic cars, nice, but over maintained. Every weekend they are waxed, and shines better than it ever did when new. Never has to lift the hood, except to wax the engine compartment, as the car is never driven. Maybe only driven twice a year, gotta keep the miles down. What if something happened while driving? A magazine hears about his cars, and invites him to bring them to a rally for a photo shoot. Except he is late, and misses the shoot. His car wouldn't start, and he had trouble finding the proper battery for it. The machine he worshipped and adored let him down, when it was needed. Under or over maintained? But it sure is shiny! Is something wrong here?

Finally, the Christian couple tells us how it is OK to drink. Socially, and they are very social. All their friends do it. Even the pastor says it fine, just a little won't hurt. Need to unwind from stress at work. The job you know. And so they drink a little, but how do you tell when a little is too much? And when they get word that their daughter is in trouble, and needs them, they can't go to her. They're impaired by the alcohol. That little has become too much, and has gotten between her and them, and she suffers. When she needed her parents most, they were impaired by another god. The drink they worshipped has become a prison. And others have suffered because of their selfishness. Is anything wrong with this picture?

In all the cases, where were the gods of these people when they needed them? What kind of God do you serve that needs to be carried by you? Who do you call out to after your job has ended? Or your car leaves you stuck? Or your daughter suffers because you couldn't get there when needed? We don't look at these things as gods, but anything you worship, or put first in your life, can control you, and will if you choose to let it. Or even not let it. Your life style will tell you much about what you worship. When it should be a who. God is a somebody-not a something.

A man encountered Jesus, and wanted to know about eternal life. He was young, rich, and had much. And had led a good life, keeping the commandments. He thought he was in for sure. But when told to sell all he had, and give it to the poor, he found he couldn't. And wouldn't. His riches were his glory, and kept him from heaven. His good works, and charitable deeds meant nothing, if he had other gods before the one true God.

What are you stumbling over today? Are car payments killing you, because you just had to have the ultimate driving machine, that sits in the garage weekends? Does your house own you, because you must have a 3000 square foot house for the two of you? Are you exhausted on weekends, and miss out seeing your family, because you just had to have that job, and find out the company owns you, take it or leave it, their answer when you ask for time off. Do you look to some federal program to sustain you, instead of the living God? Not too far fetched, and if you aren't in one of these scenarios, you may know someone who is.

Paul admonishes us to be happy in every situation, and when trouble comes, look to God. And not the situation. The victory won at the the cross, is still celebrated today. That still small voice is still speaking today, wanting to direct and bless you. But it is your choice. You can either go out every morning and pick up your god, or you can have God pick you up. A simple choice, but not simply made.

You shall have no other Gods before Him, is the first commandment. It means cars, jobs, the Padres, and yes, even your wife. Put Him first, and get a true perspective. Be truly in love with him, trust Him, and watch as He adds everything else to you. The right house, right car, right job, and right wife. Too bad you can't ask the rich man who refused Christ-you'd have to go to hell to find him, and no one returns from there.

Heaven awaits, eternity begins now. Will your God get you to heaven? On earth, as it is in heaven. And that's a promise, for those who have chosen Jesus. The only true God.

love with compassion.

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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raining like the Dickens

Little Joey B. of El Camino Del Rey Mar Vista writes, "Mike, when it rains and you are riding, do you get wet?" Yes , Joey, you do. And next time it rains, go outside and stand in it. Like, duh!

And as a charter member of the Like, Duh! Club, I can attest to that fact. For some reason, I hesitate to put on my rain suit, when all the signs are there. While the lovely Miss Theresa is snuggled up inside her rain suit, all dry and secure, I continue to ride, even though the skies are black, the wind is blowing, the weatherman warned us again this morning, and even the wetness in the air says stop, somehow I ride on. And outside of urban areas, noticeable by their absence are very few overpasses, so there are very few places to pull over. And when one is found, usually a truck stop, many like minded riders are found there, with their dry wives accompanying them. And as we struggle to get the dry plastic suit over our wet clothes, after the five minute wrestling match, they always ask, "do you have to go to the bathroom?" And even if you didn't, now you do. Thanks a lot, honey.

But as I waited until the last minute outside Madison, Wisconsin, riding north on US 151, I found my dressing room to be a car dealership that was closed, as it was Sunday. And parked in the service reception area, which was just long enough for my bike to stay dry. And as I struggled to put my rain suit on-it takes two when one is wet, the silence from her was worse than the usual "why did you wait" I usually get pelted with. Thankfully I didn't have to go.

So riding on, it poured for another half hour, then proceeded to dry out as we reached our lunch stop in Appleton, The Machine Shed. Stripping off our rain suits, in bright sunshine, I am sure the patrons leaving thought we were crazy, not a cloud in sight. Those crazy Californians!

Now the rain had hit hard, filling the area on the seat between me and the gas tank with water, so that despite the rain suit, my crotch got soaked. Not the first time, so I am now better prepared to handle this situation. Now The Machine Shed has these killer buffets, you have to see it to believe it. And we were strategically escorted to the farthest point in the restaurant from it. So I got to walk the entire length of the building, three times, remember I said the food was good, so all could see me. Now I have learned not to make eye contact, so that I don't get to see the patrons staring at my crotch, dark and wet like I went in my pants. Or see the kid pointing, and saying "Daddy look, that man..." Thus avoiding having to explain I was in the rain, and waited too long, and I think you get it. Like, duh, kid! "You see son, I told you motorcycles were dangerous!"

"I'll wait until I'm older, or until I have time to get saved." "Not now, I'm having too much fun, when I'm not doing so well I will." Or "I'm not a murderer or anything." Truth is, we have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. And we need Jesus, the savior God sent to us. And all the signs are there for His return. Like the Bible prophesied, some over 3000 years ago, there will be strange weather-take a look around the world. Wars, and rumors of wars. As of today, Israel has been warned that Iran will have an atomic bomb this weekend, that they plan to use on them. Iraq, Afghanistan? STD's are out of control, HIV so prevalent it isn't even news anymore, crime is out of control-although when they change the way it is reported it seems no to be, and yet very few look to Him. I paid my taxes, I expect the government to help. And yet we hear"Where is the promise of His coming? Like we were taught in Sunday School?" Fact-He is coming, and be glad He hasn't yet, as if you doubt, it is as saying no to Him, and you would be left behind. Not a pleasant situation, for after the rapture will be the worst seven years the world have ever experienced. Even the government can't save you, they will be a major part of the cause!

Today is the day of salvation. Rather than look for an overpass that's not there before it is too late, trust Jesus today. He will calm the storms in your life, guide you through the cloudy situations, and bring you through to the other side, intact. You don't have to go to hell, just as I don't have to get wet. It is my decision, and God tells us that obedience is better than sacrifice. And I rather ride in the rain, dry, than wet inside and out. But yet, we wait. Jesus Christ, the decision is yours. I hope you don't delay, before it is too late!

You see the scriptures are always correct. And like the one painted in the children's nursery are accurate, for all to see. "We will not all sleep," it says, "but we will all be changed." Proof enough for me. Let Jesus change your life today.

Amanda Hondasakitridavidon writes, "why don't bikers smile when riding?" You see Amanda, there are these creatures called bugs, and they get in your teeth...."

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

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the character to stand up and be counted

Aretha Franklin sung about. The Boy Scouts, and the Girl Scouts include it in their oath. It is in the marriage vows. In the biker community, we abide by it. And our military heroes require it. It is called respect, and this weekend, the lack of it was shown by our president. This is not a political message, nor will I entertain one, this is about honoring heroes, who gave their lives, either voluntarily or involuntarily on 9-11. It is about compassion, love, courtesy, meekness, and honor. And it is about time we as human beings start to show it. It is about character, and doing the right thing. No matter what anyone else says!

How many remember 9-11? Has the impact been forgotten? Or have you forgotten the scenes of hijacked planes flying into the WTC? Remember, we were attacked! Unprovoked! Do you remember those jumping out of windows? Do you remember those brave first responders, rushing to a certain death to rescue those trapped? If you have forgotten, shame on you. And shame on us, for not keeping this in the forefront. It is not about being anti-Muslim, but pro-American. And as Americans, we need to stand up and be counted, not polled.

Through Torches Across America, and Father Al at the Flight 93 Memorial Chapel in Shanksville, I have met some of the families' survivors. I have wiped tears from my cheeks, belonging to Ilse Homer, mother of Leroy Homer, copilot of Flight 93. I have cried, and also laughed with his sisters and brother in law. Not about politics, but about our common devotion to our country, and how Leroy gave up his life. When I visit Mary White, Beth Wainio's mom, she inspires me to remember 9-11, but also to carry on despite it. Sett your sights on things on high. I have visited and counseled with Michelle Little, sister of David Weiss of Rescue One, who died in the WTC, seeking to rescue others. We are stronger as a United States of America than a divided one. Remember that. Such a great nation as the US if A will not bow to any enemy, particularly one worshipping an evil, pagan God. And that is why it is so disgusting that our president, will not defend the country he is sworn to protect. And will not do the right thing. Not a political stand, but an ideological, and religious stand, based on being a Muslim, whose God has no love in him, and whose idea of peace is when all Christians are dead and gone. Look it up. Who enter our ranks, not to become Americans, but only to spread a perverted gospel of lies and deception. To weaken our country, doing things they are not allowed to do in their own. What other country is the world offers such freedom? Remember that, as those who fight and die for your freedom, are doing it for them also.

In the Psalms, David cries out to God, to let the words of his mouth, and that the meditation of his heart be pleasing to God. Words, spoken to be heard, and his meditations, his thoughts, ideas, and his secrets, may they please God, and not any political party or newscaster. He knew where his peace came from, and understood respect.

But do we? When we think no one sees, how do we act? Or think? And when we get caught, how often do we talk about our rights? Funny, how only guilty people need rights. Innocent ones don't need to call on them, very often. Look to Jesus, as the ultimate example. Who although He was God, stepped down out of it, and became a mortal man, dying on the cross. Gave up all His rights, so that you could be reunited with God, and go to heaven. Try that one on, Allah! And did it all for you, while still a sinner, and with those He loved showing Him no respect. Telling us to pray for our enemies, and those who persecute you.

Do you pray for your enemies? Allah says don't. Not one of his 99 attributes is love. So how do you expect his followers to show you love, unless you show it to them first? They are not our enemies, only their perverted beliefs. They need Jesus! And you can do something their God cannot-love and respect them, and tell them the truth! Is it possible we have let this false God, Allah, infiltrate our society, so we have more in common with him than you do with the living God? Or do you walk in the spirit?

And you can have all of God's promises become real to you. Turn to Jesus. Show His love to others. Show respect, you don't have to agree with them, to love or respect them. Show them a side of God they don't often see, instead of turning into the very thing they accuse us of. God says it pours hot coals on their head, and that love covers a multitude of sin.

Do you know of any persons, religion, or country that can't use more love? Show them Jesus. R-E-S-P-E-C-T, don't what it means to me? Find out what it can mean to you, showing it for others. Doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do. America, unite as Americans, not as political parties. And Christians, unite in the spirit, not as denominations, but as ones who believe in Jesus.

Abe Lincoln reminded us that a house divided cannot stand. Where do you stand? As for me and my house we are Christians, then Americans. And give all glory to God. Of thee I sing!

respectfully submitted,

with love and compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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when the truth is found

You'll have to forgive me if I appear confused every once in a while, because I am. And you'll have to forgive those who don't look confused, but are, also. Sometimes the lies, rumors, selfish viewpoints, and innuendos start to overwhelm me, and I need to step back and remember what is the truth. We have become a poll driven society, in which facts are based on opinions, and callously misstated as such, when they are really just opinions, and sometimes with no basis in fact. Carefully reported, or interpreted for the individuals own personal well being. And so many end up living a lie, and its consequences. It doesn't have to be this way.

Over the weekend a tragic accident took place at a desert race. The fact is a race driver, in his off road truck, lost control, and went into a crowd. Killing eight, sending 12 more to the hospital, and changing who knows how many families' lives forever. An accident. And as I listened to the media misreport about desert racing, I became angry. And somehow the anger at the stupidity of their reporting overshadowed my concern for these families. But only momentarily, thank God.

Those involved in racing know it is dangerous, and can be deadly. And to listen to those who are ignorant misreport the facts, angers me. But we should be used to it, even in some churches they have chosen the wrong way. Can't upset the congregation by telling them the truth, they might go elsewhere, and we have bills to pay! But those that speak lies don't realize the damage they do. In a society where various CSI shows are in the top 10, where they seek the truth, these irresponsible people speak first, and usually with total disregard for the truth. They have an agenda, and sadly hurt and maim more every day than were affected by this tragic accident. Even Agent Mulder would sort out lies from the truth, knowing it was out there somewhere. Not realizing it comes from within. But how many do seek the truth, but end up placated by inaccurate reporting? Feel good theology-note, it ain't all about you!

Already the talking heads, and other do gooders are calling for more laws. Outlaw racing, more cops, more fences. Have these people ever been to a desert race? Or a desert? They race here because of the freedom from the above. Laws don't save lives. Talk to John Lennon, the guy who killed him had broken over 70 existing laws at the time, would one more have saved his life? And if there were more, which now there are, why do so many continue to die horribly when they are ignored? And do you realize with each new law, another freedom is taken from you?

So why do those who are supposedly seeking the truth, end up missing it? Because it takes faith, not a whole bunch, but just a little, and it isn't about your faith, but who you place that faith in. And as I watch many wanting to know why this accident happened, you see only a few turning to the someone who can answer, and comfort. Faith is the hope of things not seen, and we can only believe with our finite minds, that which we see. But when we do, doubt even more, if the sight is unpleasant. Personally I am glad God doesn't let me understand everything, in fact no where does the Bible promise you understanding, but it does promise a peace that surpasses it. And that is my desire, and it can only come from Jesus. I wish they would report that. Finally a truth, the truth that would help someone, and set them free.

Tonight the news will report even more death in Afghanistan, unrest in various cities, and families ruined by drugs and alcohol. It doesn't have to be that way. Jesus offers a way out, but you must choose it. Don't fall into the lie of the devil made me do it, or the enemy is attacking. It is not his fault, but yours, as you choose whom to follow. The warnings were there. God never promises the way out will be easy, or the road smooth-but that He is the way out of your situation. Rather than seek to place blame, look to God and ask forgiveness, then seek to forgive others. Do not allow bitterness to be added to the list of problems you have-seek to substitute joy for that!

And allow Jesus to do miracles in your life. He wants to, and many times we prevent Him, just because of unbelief. The truth is out there, and more accurately can be in you, when you repent and turn to Him. The decision is yours. Personally, I choose Jesus. And let others know. How refreshing the truth is after a day of lies.

He came to fulfill the law, in love, by being love. Grace is what He calls it, and it is available to everyone right now, who only believes. And that is my prayer for all who seek, for they will find hope in Jesus Christ. Bobby Kennedy once said "some see things as they are and ask why, I see things as they should be and ask why not." Why not Jesus? Things as they should be. Let's pray...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

how y'all doing?

Although they are not new, they are becoming more prominent while travelling today's major highways. Welcome Centers, and when you cross into the next state, it is not unusual to encounter one within the first few miles. From rest stops with vending machines in cages, with access for none but the smallest hands, to huge buildings with free refreshments, they tell a lot about the personality of the state you just crossed over into. It seems the farther west, and farther north you go, they are more spartan, but the farther south and east, the more elaborate. And providing a welcome is exactly what they do.

Entering Maryland on US13, on the Delmarva peninsula, you are greeted by this huge house like building, staffed by volunteers, who can answer any questions about what is on the road ahead. And in recent years, with so many bikes on the road, many have become motorcycle friendly. Recommending the long way, with better roads, instead of the four laner around towns. Non-tourist advice to tourists, making your trip special. Offering refreshments, info on where to stay-some even offering to make reservations for you, discounted no less, like the one in Tennessee a few years back. Offering free brochures, maps-my favorite, for free, and helping you plan your trip through their state, and not necessarily the same route that the Chamber of Commerce would plan for you. And some stick out in my mind on this last ride.

Louisiana, where the man gave Theresa a piece of cotton, with seeds from a live display, for her preschool class. The bumper sticker in Mississippi, saying "I'm not your Mama, pick it up ! Simple, yet effective. The women in Alabama, suggesting places to eat in Dothan, where the locals eat. And of course the one on I-95 when entering Florida. Huge compared to any other, due to the fact it is on I-95, which is Main Street USA for those fleeing the Northeast and the Rust Belt, and wintering in Florida. An air conditioned oasis on a 95 degree day, that welcomes you with cold, Florida orange juice. Now personally, Florida makes the best OJ, its oranges are sweeter, and this was like OJ heaven, the drink not the convict. Standing there overdoing it, but no one commenting, the OJ flowed like rain for me, and I was totally refreshed. One of the women volunteers, even allowing me to use her personal computer to find the Triumph dealer in Daytona.

And outside seeing my first Florida State Trooper car, always like to ID them before they ID me, assisting where a semi had caught fire, melting the cab and engine to the ground. Fortunately, no one was hurt. And reflecting a central theme found in each and every rest stop, a pride for their state, and the desire to make you welcome as you visit their state. Welcome to their home, if you will.

Our church recognizes first time visitors, and I like to think of us as a welcome center. And I try to notice who is new, and try to greet them afterward. I want them to be welcome, be blessed, and feel comfortable. This is my church home, and I am proud of it, if that is the right word to say. We have met other bikers, people from places we visit, and have shown them places to eat, and sometimes take them home with us to visit. Showing hospitality to a stranger, and hopefully making their visit one they will remember with fondness.

Meeting Jesus is like that, He makes you feel welcome. From the men on the road who He walked with, and whose hearts burned when He was with them, to those He welcomed while feeding and teaching, anyone who had an encounter with Jesus, found He made an impact on them. Some lives He would change, and some only saw Him as Joe and Mary's kid. Some recognized Him as God, some were just hungry, thank you very much for the free meal. But all who encountered Him, will have to make a decision someday on who He is. And the church, His representatives, may be that means. The love you show to strangers, your kids, and your pastor, tells a lot about who Jesus is in your life.

Recently visiting Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, we saw Pastor Chuck, and when he came to speak, the room broke into applause. An applause of love, one I wish our church would do for our pastors. A show of love, that was contagious, even before any words were spoken. A huge welcome center, welcoming their pastor. Who then goes on to lead, disciple, encourage, and inform his flock all about the things of Jesus-just like the volunteers at the welcome centers along the road.

All your words man nothing if you don't show love. Welcome someone today, show them Jesus is more than rules and regulations. And it is OK to do this outside of church, and on days other than Sunday. He is bigger than denominational barriers, and you are welcome in His house anytime. Spend time fellowshipping afterward, and take notice of visitors, or of those looking to belong. Invite them to join you, and you will find the scriptures come alive. For just like Jesus told us, once we were strangers, but now we are friends. A friend of Jesus, is how He sees us. I hope you do too.

For we are all just visitors here, just passing through. Enjoy the trip, and the OJ.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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one score and seven

I watched as his wife lovingly stroked his beard, all the time telling him how much she loved him. But he could not react, as strokes and other physical maladies had reduced him to this vegetative type state. A very personal, loving moment that I was privileged to see, and after a few seconds turned away, because it was so private and intimate. This couple, married for 27 years, had at the altar the day of their marriage taken vows. For better or worse, was not a choice. Nor was richer or poorer, and definitely not in sickness and health. They were conditions to honor, to show their love for each other. Commitments made, that in the good times they would celebrate, and in the times of tribulation fall back on. The true character of them as individuals, and as one before God shining through in their last days together. A situation that would want to break your heart, but given the character they displayed, made me smile. And whistle a happy tune back to my bike.

For it is the tough times where we grow in the Lord, and build our testimonies, and in the good times enjoy the benefits of enduring them. It is in the trials of life we grow our character, one that with God with them in the midst of their troubles was a comfort to them. "Well done, my good and faithful servant," await them when they get to heaven, spoken by none other than the creator of the universe Himself-God! But only after they cross over to heaven, and the final battle-death is won!

After 32 years of marriage, Theresa and I have been in many battles-fortunately not between us. We have found that in our weakness, God's love is our strength, and as we still watch Him take us through our daily trials, wonder how we would have ever made it without Jesus in our lives. It is written, the two become one, and we surely have. Thanks to God's mercies, new every morning, and we have yet to have leftovers, and walking in His grace, we are secure that He is in control-trusting Him when their is no evidence of Him, just knowing that when we cast our cares on Him who careth for you, He will love us through it. Carefree, not careless, as the lack of worry makes us appear.

And that is what I saw in that hospital room yesterday. And that is what I want for another young couple just entering into marriage. Both have pasts that without God are a burden, and a recipe for failure. But because God is the center of their relationship, I know they will endure. Romans 8 promises that, that nothing can separate them from the love of Christ. And the trials they face early will only build their marriage and character stronger as they row together. And be a great example to all detractors, hopefully showing them how Jesus Christ changes lives-and can change theirs.

Whether two weeks from now, or 30 years from now, keep God in your marriage. And watch as you grow in Him, you will both grow together. For what God has put together, let no man put asunder. Living well, for Christ, is still the best revenge. Celebrate your marriage each night with a kiss, and each morning with a hug. And pray. And keep God in your marriage-the most intimate act you will ever perform as husband and wife.

And watch as the glory of the Lord rises above you!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com