wip wop-work in process, wating on parts

A good parts man is tough to beat. But a great one is hard to find. Notice I didn't say manager-they usually are more administrative in today's world, or counterman-they can be someone who knows his way around a computer, as has been my experience recently. No, a parts man. The guy who stays up on all the TSO's, reads the updates, and probably knows more about the repair of an item than the tech. He is the man who knows that you need new gaskets, o-rings, and bolts when replacing an updated water pump, and knows both the old and new numbers. He knows, and has been in contact with the factory, to correct them on a misprint or the latest mistake online, it used to be a microfiche, or before that the parts book. In my time I have known two such men, and both were so good that no one else was even close, including sometimes the parts book!

Earl Zook worked for Ford in the fifties, and into the seventies. The Ford store I worked at parts department ran around him. And it needed to, as Earl was the source for parts. The last and only dealer to not be on computer, they had Earl. And he could tell you not only the right part, but where it was, who to call to find it, and at the mention of his name, they shipped it. He was that good, but when he retired, Ford rushed in the next day with computers, and things got slower, and less personable without Earl. One of a kind, he knew his business.

My friend Richard is also the same type, except he worked for Mercedes Benz. He told me once that when he entered the business, he wanted to be the best, and he was. He studied, and more than once had been passed over for management because who would replace him? But I knew him as a parts manager also, and the world needs more Richards. I also worked at dealers without him, and he was also getting called, because no one knew Mercedes Benz like Richard. A tribute to my friend, the best there was.

But both these men had a similar driving instinct, but also didn't suffer idiots very well. Both were more than willing to help, I saw it many times, but expected you to learn. Not to keep up, but at least to remember. And when you didn't get it after two or three times, you were demoted when you called. You had become a time waster, and no longer welcome. They were happy to promote new Earls or Richards, teaching them the ways, and also the parts, but if you were just another flunkie too lazy to look it up, they knew it, and your calls weren't answered quickly-if at all. And interestingly, neither man thought they were unusual-just doing their jobs as they should be done. All others, I wish you would take note. Even to the point of when no one could find the part that the cards said was in stock, they would go to the shelf to show them where it was. How many parts departments would do that today?

It was more familiarization than memorization. Remember the difference. Some have knowledge, these guys had wisdom. And I think the difference shows. I know many men who know the Bible better than me. They have memory verses, have studied deeply, and even read many outside commentators on certain subjects. Talking with them is like a Bible talking to you. Yet there is something missing. Many know the Bible, but don't have the intimacy of knowing the person who wrote it. Knowledge not for application, but for knowing. I usually last as long as two classes under these types, as they have knowledge, but it is so impersonal they don't know how to apply it. Unlike my parts men example, who knew the applications intimately, these guys are little more than an education experiment on memory. And I want more from the Bible than that, and a lot more from God!

So I am leery when I am introduced to a Bible teacher. I rather see the evidence of his ministry application, than his degrees or recall. Why? It's not personal, and God is. Jesus calls us friends, not subjects. Not numbers. We have to get to know Him, not the other way around. And I want to be close to God, closer to the action. But it takes a commitment, a commitment of love. And the evidence is not found in diplomas, degrees, or titles. It is found in testimony. For Jesus tells us that without love, our words are just like a tinkling bell-noisy. No wonder some people duck when they see us coming. Or change the subject, or sadly avoid Christians all together. For they get it better than we do-we care more about us than them. And it shows.

That is why im Matthew 25 Jesus rebuked the church types. They had rebuked demons, and even prophesied in His name. But it wasn't personal, they didn't know Him. He was more impressed by those who showed His love by feeding the hungry, giving water to the thirsty, clothing the naked, visiting those in jail and sick, and welcoming strangers. He did all these things in love to us-and wants us to do it to others-IN HIS NAME. Not just a trendy salutation, but real words. So do it!

Ask the spirit to guide you when you read. Whether it is a verse, a chapter, or a book-pray before reading. And watch as you are given insight by the one who wrote the scriptures. Who knows what you need, where to find it, where it goes, and where to find it on the shelf. He is always available, and always in stock.

And just like a valued parts man, willing to show you how to find the answers you, or in their case parts you need. Reading more and getting less? Ask Jesus-before you read. Reading less, and getting more-thank the spirit. And think on the things that God shows you during the day.

A good parts man not only knows what a veeblefetzer is, but where it goes. A loving God knows who you are, what you need, and where you are going. Make it more personal, and watch your world change. And your relationship with God grow to a depth beyond recall. Be more than a part on the shelf-be the right part, in the right situation. Only in the spirit will you become what God desires for you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

freedom from religion-only found in Jesus

Jack Nicholson explains freedom best to Dennis Hopper in Easy Rider. He explains in a few sentences that the red necked/short sided bigots aren't afraid of him, but what he represents. Dennis is too stoned to get it, and sadly the message has been lost on many over the years. Whereas many look at freedom as in a freedom from, you can also look at it as a freedom to. A freedom to be yourself, to express yourself, and a freedom to become all you can-or all you don't want to be. And like the sticker says, "Some have therapy, the rest of us have motorcycles."

But for some reason we fear freedom. For with it it brings a note of responsibility, and a note of respect with it. And what if you are freer than me? Meekness, the Bible calls it, is being in a position to do the right thing, but doing something better. Forgive, where you don't need too. Give when it is not expected. Acknowledge when it is easier than to ignore, and being obedient to God when the choice is up to you.

"Where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty," scripture tells us. Not programs or policies, but walking in the spirit. Not the church, not the word, not legalism. No denominational barriers. Jesus. A few years back, Jamie Buckingham, then editor of Charisma magazine was healed of cancer by God. Confirmed by doctors, he was on a Christian program, who interviewed him, wanting to know what special prayer, what preacher, what service, or what church had healed him. His answer each time, was "all I know is Jesus." But yet, the interviewer became weary, and then suspicious, what no plan of attack? You mean you just prayed, and God healed you? YES!! Sad, but the unbeliever will take this man at his word, while the "church" type man looks for physical evidence. Surely God couldn't do this by Himself? Surely-he's wrong. Just Jesus? And I watched recently as a man asked about my ministry. He didn't get it that God meets my needs. He gave all the things he did priority in his effort to please God. But failed, if only he had asked God what God wanted. And he almost seemed jealous because in my simple obedience, God had blessed me more-at least according to him. To him, Christianity was "Jesus and..." you can add your own words. When Mr. Buckingham had it right the whole time, "all he knew was Jesus."

And just like Jack explained to Dennis, the world is afraid and hates something it cannot control. And religion is afraid of something it cannot control. Many say they profess Christ, but feel they have to add to it. Jesus and works. Jesus and penance. Jesus and 40 Days of Purpose. Jesus and something-but not Jesus by Himself. They need something to hang onto, when the Word plainly tells us we walk by faith, not by sight. Faith being trusting God, when sometimes there is no evidence of Him. Where your spirit bears witness to His. Personal, intimate, and done through an obedience of love.

Maybe that is why I love being on the road so much. When you are traveling, you are what you are right then and there. Just you, the bike, and the road. Meeting other bikers, it doesn't matter if you are a doctor, or being treated by one. Whether you have 83 months to go on your latest bike contract, or if you paid cash. Or what brand of bike you choose. No yesterdays are remembered by those you just encountered, just like no sin is remembered by a forgiving God. The common denominator, but not the equalizer is the road. Not equal, because although the road and opportunities may be, it is what we do with them, and where we let it take us, that makes us unequal. Just like God. Some choose to walk with Him, some just walk. Some live by rules, while we have morals. God looks at us in a perpetual right now, forever. We carry baggage, and sometimes insist upon unloading it on others. Freedom is not unloading your burden on others, but giving it to God. Who will deal with it for you. And give you a freedom that only He can give.

And to those who question your walk with Christ, you will appear careless. How can anybody not worry? Surely Jesus, or at least the church needs people like us to help? But the truth is, what appears careless, is really carefree. Burden free, having given it all over to God. No tethers attached, not bungeed to the bike where you can't see it. And not dumped off on someone subordinate.

That is the freedom Jack was talking of, he just didn't realize it was only found in Christ. And even when they tried to kill that freedom, by nailing it to a cross, it resurrected itself-as only God can do! But some still try to kill the spirit in us today. For they wish to think they know better than a loving God.

Trust God! If you want to freak out your pastor, tell him you trust God. When the bills are overdue, the doctor tells you the "C" word, when your spouse tells you she isn't in love with you anymore, trust God. But trust Him before the calamities occur. For life, like your ride, is a series of right nows put together to form your life. Right now, be right with God. And find the roads better, the food tastier, the fellowship better, and your spirit freer as you follow God.

Your life will say more about who God is in it than any words. Freedom in Christ, and from religion. Traveling through life enjoying any road you are on. That's freedom, a liberty only found in Christ. Be free today-and enjoy the ride of your life!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

All I know is Jesus. Anything else is a burden.

the third man

It starts when you're a kid and hurt yourself. After twenty minutes of tears and looking for a mark your mother can't find, she tells you, "we'll put a band aid on it and you'll be fine." And you are, not questioning the healing power of the adhesive strip. Until it comes time to remove it, along with all the hair on your arm, causing more pain than the original boo-boo. And whether you know it or not, your whole life will be dictated by fixing things with a band aid.

When your first car is measured not in miles per gallon, but miles per quart of oil burned, we used to use the remedies found in the back of car magazines. My favorite, a man in a service station uniform, complete with hat and bow tie-sure made him look official, telling us by adding this special oil treatment, our worn out engine would run like new, and stop burning oil. We called him Mr. SBO-Stop Burning Oil. And the Granatelli's made a fortune of STP, and still do. And for awhile the blue clouds of smoke would subside, until the car stopped in the middle of nowhere, with friends you weren't allowed to hang out with, and well, you were already late, I think you get it. The band aid failed.

I see many on feeding tubes in hospitals when they are unable to eat food. This provides nourishment, but if asked, and able to answer, the number one thing they wish to eat is a Double Double from In-and -Out. Information per the nutrition therapy nurse. Why don't they use that in their advertising? Isn't that what a hamburger's all about? This tube feeding is like an internal band aid, and works, but nothing like a burger and fries to help mentally-not sure about the physical ramifications, but refer to the initial band aid your mom put on you, and hey-it works!

And sadly, many of us live our life on the life support of band aids. Hide the wound, I'll worry about the scar later. Struggling with the things of God? I know, I'll read through the Bible in a year. That will make me closer to God. But what after you miss a day or two, and fall behind? It only adds more pressure-nope, that ain't it. I'll go to church more often, that's it. Until something else more important, like a Padre game, or a ride comes along, at least God will forgive me. I know, I'll get up early and pray more. Start the day after tomorrow, I have a big night tonight. And finally, I'll only listen to KWVE in the car. Except tomorrow night, they have a Led Zeppelin marathon on. And so the list of band aid remedies goes on, and so does our problem.

The Bible tells us the Trinity is Father, Son, aka Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. NOT Father, Son, and more Bible time-not more prayer time, not more church , and not more KWVE. These things aren't wrong-but they are not the Trinity. For the third person of the Trinity is a person-the Holy Spirit. Who urged you to trust Jesus when unsaved, which comforts you when troubled, who leads you when you need guidance, and who in all things points you to Jesus, who always points you to His Father-Almighty God! God doesn't put a band aid on our problems to cover up the symptoms, He deals with the cause. And when you let the Spirit guide you, He will heal the problem. I tend to cut myself a lot, and put band aids on the cuts-"it's ok honey, yes, that's the bone, but it'll heal-just get me a band aid." My personal favorite-extra large and extra absorbent. And then when it gets red and infected, I go to the doctor. History if nothing else should remind me, go to doctor first, but when a band is available, well, the doc can wait.

God is patient-aren't you glad? But why go through a band aid temporary fix when we can call on the Spirit to guide us? To comfort us? To bring us to salvation? Didn't you know that you may hide the wound, but it will still leave a scar?

Trust God today. Walk in the spirit. He will encourage you to read your Bible, and get more out of it. You will want to listen to KWVE, and fellowship with others like you at church. And give you a comfort and a peace that only Jesus can offer, way beyond trying to understand why your car is still burning oil, or your finger is infected.

Which just may free you up to do more of the things you like to do. Like ride motorcycles. Or have that Double Double. Yes, the Holy Spirit likes to ride and eat too. So trust Him today.

Just think, all the blessings you missed because your mom put a band aid on it, instead of praying over it? When all you had to do was ask.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

unveiling events-July, 2010

Really I was just following orders. The bike that Triumph had given me to ride, a new 2011 Sprint GT, had not been released to dealers yet. They had only seen pictures of it, and Triumph riders had only been leaked details via spy shots on the Internet. And I had been told, "take it to Jesse, so he can load it onto the demo truck. Pick up a Street Triple R and then swap it for another GT." Even I could do that, I mean who wouldn't want to ride three brand new 2011 models in one day, after putting 1500 miles on the first GT?

So I pulled into NCY where about 100+ Triumph riders were getting ready for their turn on riding the demos. I had never met Jesse, but figured he would be easy to find. What I didn't expect was the reception. I pulled in on the blue GT, and parked by the trailer. And soon I was surrounded by the riders in wait, who recognized the new model, and wanted a first hand look. Some even asked to sit on it, but thankfully I declined their request. With about 30 riders surrounding me, and asking questions, I was a bit overwhelmed, but felt very cool having this unique bike-and I was riding it! But soon Jesse popped out of the crowd, and told me he needed to get the bike out of there. I helped him make his way through the crowd, and wheel it into the back of the building-away from everyone. He then explained that no one had seen the bike yet, and that other dealers had complained "why didn't they get to see it first?" So no one gets to see new bikes until they all do-together! And I had just broken that rule, unknowingly, and it was kinda fun to watch and also be part of.

It seems a while ago, certain dealers didn't like the fact that Triumph was using a dealer in So Cal to prep the Press Fleet. So Triumph sent them out to a private, non-Triumph shop, and well-let's just say that the love wasn't there that Mickey gives them now. Politics aside, he does a great job with the bikes, and also with the magazine editors. And it reflects in the road test reviews. Just read any recent articles-the press, and in turn riders love the new Triumphs!

Fortunately no one, including me got into trouble. I was just following orders, and now I ask before taking any bikes to the demo trucks. And in fact, the local dealers in So Cal have gotten to know me, as I stop by and let them look at the new models before they have them. At the dame dealer a few years ago, I had a new Tiger, which was not being released for a few months. I stopped in and asked the sales manger if he had any info on it. He told me the bike was too new, and he hadn't seen one. When I asked, "would you like to see one?" his eyes lit up, and soon the whole store was out looking. They had gotten a private show, a pre-release show, and felt honored. They still refer me to the guy who brought the Tiger by that day.

We all like a glimpse of new models, or of what's going to happen in the future. People pay millions for fortune tellers, and horoscope readings. Only to be disappointed when they events don't happen. And whine about the money it cost them. Jesus tells us about the future, and based on his past, we should all listen. The Bible is only 100% accurate when it comes to prophecy, so why don't we seek Him first like we are told? When He foretells of coming world events, like the increase in floods, tornadoes, earthquakes, and other so-called natural disasters, why don't we listen? And yet as the experts mumble some nonsense far from the truth, we listen to them. I just don't get it. Why aren't we excited like the men who saw the new GT, and recognized it even though they had never seen one before? Why can't we be more like the sales manager who jumped at the chance to see what he had only heard about?

FAITH. Believing the evidence of things not seen. Or trusting God when their is no evidence of Him. But when there is, we still don't? Why? I can get theological, but the answer is we don't listen. The signs are there, the messages, some are over 3000 years old. We had over 300 prophecies fulfilled by Jesus alone, wouldn't that be like road testing a new bike for a million miles?

Again, it takes faith, to please God. For we walk by faith, not by sight. We trust God because He is trustworthy. And everything He says will happen, in His timing. So be patient, for His next step is calling out His church from the earth-the rapture. And since He wants you to be rescued, He wants you saved, and is patient waiting for you to say yes to Him! He takes no joy in the death of anyone-even the sinner! Now that's love.

Jesus may be as new to you as a new model to old riders. But it takes trust, and you cannot trust someone you don't know. The rapture predicted is real. It will happen. The question is will you accept Him now while there is still time? What if what He says is true?

Now it's easy. Don't wait and find out the hard way. New models may come and go, He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Forever is along time-make sure you spend it with Him, in Heaven.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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"do this in remembrance of me"

It was my first Torches Across America ride in 2005. And after the tremendous reception in Fairborn, Ohio, it was time for me to get a sinus infection. I don't do cigarette smoke well, and since then, almost all states have outlawed smoking in restaurants, but back then they hadn't, and my sinuses were a wreck from smoke. And I was pretty sick.

But first, the ceremony at Nutter Field house at Wright Patterson AFB was incredible. Good food, a great reception, and true patriots out with many police and other first responders, being honored, and honoring those who gave all on 9-11-2001. I can still see and hear the bagpipe player marching off into the horizon playing Amazing Grace until both faded out altogether. Men and women, with many families from the base and the town out to honor them. And the bikers who were on the ride to honor them also. Not to bring attention to ourselves, but to point to the men and women of 9-1, and to honor those in their families left behind. Tired and sick, after turning in early, I was easily coerced into going to an urgent care the next morning, that Nancy Knauer, Les' wife took us too.

We got there just before it opened, and two firefighters were already ahead of us. We got to talking, and they recognized us from last night. We talked, and visited, and when they said next, I pointed to them saying "go ahead, you're up." But I was truly humbled when they both insisted I go first. "Thank you," they said, "for what you are doing." And at first was embarrassed, because we were just on a ride. But after realizing how much being remembered and honored meant to them, I couldn't say no, and went in. These two men were not seeking recognition, but were glad someone said thanks, publicly. And with tears in my eyes, I humbly shook both their hands, and then saw the doctor. I don't know their names, but I still take time to pray for them, and to thank God for their humility. A lesson I still carry. And I left Fairborn being proud of the fact I was an American, and a biker. But also a Christian, and for being born in a land that God shed His grace upon.

May is National Motorcycle Recognition Month. "LOOK TWICE-AND TAKE NOTE OF MOTORCYCLES" the signs say, and we say thanks for looking out for us. Motorcycling for many is more than cheap transportation, and is a way of life-a life of freedom and the open road. And we are thankful for the recognition, and as always-please look out for us. And we hope that many of you check us out. maybe even learn to ride, but get out and meet us. I have always said if you need help, call a biker, and with so many rallies, and fund raisers put on by bikers, you non-riders are welcome to come check us out. Long hair, leathers, loud exhausts, and all-we love to ride, and would love to tell you about the freedom found in it. Ladies, bring your husbands or boyfriends. For many women ride, like my wife, and would love to tell you how much fun it is, and how it will enrich your life and marriage when you ride with your best friend. But for the rest of you in cages-aka cars, please hang up your cell, and look out for us. I am visiting too many bikers lately who have been in accidents caused by cars-we have families too, and plans for the future.

In many ways, we are a witness of a lifestyle, and of a way of life. We don't go riding to be out witnessing, but the ride is a witness about us. And for those of us who are Christians, or are called by that name, we need to remember that. You are not called to go out witnessing, but to be a witness. And to be ready in all situations. If you have told people you are a Christian, they expect you to act like one. Or more precisely, to react like one. Self control, perhaps the most difficult fruit of the spirit for me, makes me turn it all over to God. For in my times of trial, I wish to reveal Jesus to others. So how we react, can be more important than our actions. Just like the two firemen reacted to me, and let me go first, honor others with God's love. Treat others as if they are greater than you, even when all parties know they aren't. Show respect, courtesy, and honor. These things work well in the world of bikers, they should also in the church.

Let the fruit of the spirit be what you leave with others. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, meekness, long suffering, and self control. No laws against any of them, they should be written on your heart. Be a true and living witness of Jesus Christ. Many are searching for Him, but sadly His fan club, us , has let them down. Today make this the first day you recognize others as Jesus did-in love. Allow someone to go ahead of you in line. Don't flip off, or out when someone cuts you off. Be patient with those of us not as great as you. And forgive those who have hurt you. Just like Jesus forgave you.

For the 31 days of May, motorcycles will be more recognized than ever. Don't stop there. And start letting your life be a witness, and let Jesus change your heart. Thanks from those of us who ride, and a he artful apology from those of us who may offended you. I pray my life is a testimony to Jesus, and only when needed will I use words. So don't brag to me what a great Christian you are-show me! And others!

True servants, like the firemen in Fairborn, don't care who they help. Or when, or how. They do it from a sense of duty. A duty of love. They see a need and answer it. Jesus said that whoever does these things to the least of us, does it to Him. Have you been nice to Jesus lately? Isn't it time you are?

Look out for bikers! You shouldn't have to look out for Christians!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

torchesacrossamerica.com

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the weekend and a half solution

And God created weekends, and we saw that it was good. And then He created three day weekends, and to show our appreciation will go for a ride to thank Him. And since we have just crossed the border into May, we have Memorial Day coming up in just four weekends-so let's get out and thank God by riding! But where to go in this weekend and a half? So many roads, so little time. Let's see...

We could start in California, I know some great roads to Washington, then after lunch ride to Indiana, and finally to Denver for the night. Refreshed after a good meal and a great night's sleep, it is Sunday, but being on the road we may miss church. I know, let's go and visit some Biblical towns. Let's start in Emmaus, then on to Nazareth, then ride through Ephrata, and have dinner in Bethlehem, where it all began for our Lord. Sitting on the balcony, watching the sun go down, we can recall the song, "how dim we see thee light..." and have just one day left to ride. And since it is Memorial Day, maybe we should visit some historical sites. Up early wanting to take full advantage of our last day of riding, let's go to Valley Forge. Maybe Gettysburg. Washington's Crossing. All places to be remembered, and to remember the great country that God has shed His grace on. And then on to Paradise-it only seems right after a great three days of road trip. And mentally preparing ourselves for the four day work week that lies ahead, and the weekend waiting for us. So many miles, so many towns, so many roads, and road food, and we have never even left the state.

That's right, we are still in Pennsylvania! One of my favorite places to ride, and the state where all these towns live. From California, to Washington, to Indiana, and then to Denver, without crossing the Rockies, we have never left the state. Emmaus to Bethlehem-never left the area. And even Paradise, right here in the backyard. Pennsylvania-a great place to ride. But of course, you knew all this. I mean, you don't really know anyone who would ride all those places in one weekend, do you? In Pennsylvania, you can, and I have-many times. And am looking forward to it again this summer, with Theresa.

Our road trips have actually become ministry trips. And just like the New Testament tells us, we are to expand our boundaries as we grow with God. Start with Jerusalem, and expand from there. Get to know the area, while growing in God. And as He gives you the desire for more, expand the roads to Judea, then Samaria, and then finally to the entire earth. For we pray each day that God brings someone into our lives who we can minister too, and we never know where along the way that will happen. God has given us the desire to travel, and then fulfills the desire for us. In only ways He can. And when you are looking for Him, you will see Him everywhere you go!

Your Judea may be someone else's Samaria. So stop and visit, and enjoy the local food, and the sights. And welcome travelers into your own area, and even your home. Hospitality is also a ministry, and one that is sorely overlooked. Remember Jesus telling us about welcoming strangers in Matthew 25? No better way to make a friend than to be a friend. So get out and share God's love!

One state, three days, and so many places to see. Makes me particularly thankful for extended vacations, and where they can take us. Don't just sit at home waiting for memories to happen, get out and enjoy the life God has promised you! Blessings await those that seek Him, and make your trip the destination. Jesus, motorcycles, and time to ride. Now what part of His blessings don't you understand?

Just a footnote. Watching a game show the other night, a woman was asked what city is referred to as the city of brotherly love? Her answer-California! She really needs to get out more, as Philadelphia is the city of brotherly love. It makes me wonder though, maybe she has been to California, Pennsylvania, and I have missed something. Guess I'll just have to check it out. Soon, for the suspense is killing me...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

boys in the attic

The number 12. Twelve in a dozen. Twelve jurors. Joe Namath wore #12! But twelve is also a significant number of an elite group of men formed as a unique group of ambassadors. Hand picked by their leader, using qualifications that no modern screening would verify, these twelve were picked to deliver the message of a king too the world. A dying world. And even when one defected, in a scenario that would prove deadly for this king, it was all part of the plan. But when the other eleven were empowered by Him, and the spirit, the world began to see the king's words come true.

Three days after the king's death, ten of them were locked upstairs in the same room they had had their final meeting with their king. Only one was missing. And they were scared to death, as being associated with this king had made them wanted followers, who would eventually all face a martyr's death due to allegiance to him. Ten men holed up if you would, not knowing what to do, but afraid of the possible consequences. With the toughest one already denying publicly any association with their leader. Not knowing what to do, they were afraid for their lives, and without a leader or plan, were clueless.

But rather than the ten being vilified for fear, it is the one who wasn't at the meeting who is known as an outlaw within the group. Commonly referred to, incorrectly, as the Doubter, he, rather than be holed up scared, was out on the streets doing what his leader had told him to do-be bold, in love, and share the gospel. Remember his words to follow Jesus into Jerusalem even if it meant death? Of course, I am talking about Thomas, who later would end up killed with spears in India, and where churches started by him are still in evidence today. But a doubter? Truly the other 10 were, for they were afraid for their lives-perfect love casts out all fear. And doubt causes fear. No, Thomas, was confident of what could happen, just not sure what would happen. But he had his marching orders, so march he did. And when the others shared about the appearance of Jesus, he said he wanted to see him too. I want the proof, if it's good enough for you, show me too. All the way to the three nail piercings, and the hole in his side. He wanted to see the evidence of their faith! And when he did, without touching the wounds, cried out, "my God and my savior!" For he recognized Jesus, just as the others had-but through faith, not wanting to discount stories of 10 scared men. And Jesus would tell him how others who haven't seen shall be blessed if they believe too. That's us! You and me! And isn't seeing such an encouragement to our believing?

But are you out sharing the gospel as Thomas was, or scared into hiding because of what others may say? Preachers, is the pulpit a place to share the gospel and encourage others in it, or a place to discuss social ills? Time magazine tells us there is no hell. Do you respond in truth, or would you rather quote the magazine? Do you prefer Oprah to the Word? Jesus said He came to separate the sheep from the goats-are you confronting others in love with Jesus? Stop and ask yourself-who is Jesus Christ, and is He real in your life? Are you a sheep, or a goat? And if there is no hell, why did Jesus talk about it more than heaven? Why did He die to rescue you from it? Could Time, Oprah, and Rick Bell have it wrong?

If you are not representing Him, even though saved you are in spiritual darkness. For if you deny the evidence of His light, you stop going to church. Stop reading the Word. Stop praying. And make excuses just like the goats-the unsaved. You rely more on Time than on God. But God allows us that choice, and you can hit the switch, and turn back to Jesus. Pray, and repent. Read the word, and get back into church. As the spirit moves you, tell others about Jesus. And better yet, show His love as He commanded you, then use words when necessary. Be a Thomas!

Take your light out from under a barrel, and let it show to others. Be the only Bible that some may read. But get out of your room, and into the world-not becoming part of it, but changing it one life at a time.

Woe to those of you who don't. And don't spread vicious rumors about those that do. Be willing to risk it all like Thomas, and watch as whenever you see evidence of God, you rejoice. And you recognize God-and want more of Him!

Two of twelve took a stand-one for and one against. One went and killed himself, hanging and then falling onto the ground-spilling his guts. The other, living for Christ, and spilling his guts about Him everyday. Your choice.

Jesus never sent anyone to their room. Get out in the light! Before you begin to doubt His word and ways, too.

love with compassion,

Mike

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