1800 hours-a tribute to my wife and her motorcycle

Theresa and I recently passed a milestone in our lives, really our garage.  Maybe not a big deal, but still a deal to us.  Her 2002 Bonneville has now become the longest owned motorcycle we have ever owned.  It has now surpassed the FJ100 by one year, and 1000 miles.  A feat that seems to go unnoticed in our garage with the stream of press bikes that go in and out, but a milestone that is worth noting.  With over 75,000 miles, it represents over 1800 hours of seat time, a long time spent with any person, but a lot with one motorcycle.  And as 75,000 is a lot of miles, it is the roads, the rides, and the company ridden with that make the miles even more amazing.  And in a time when so many bikes are bought, not ridden, and then sold without memory, bought for love, and then sold for money, there are hours of memories here to look back on, while planning our next ride.  But it has taken commitment, much like a marriage does, starting with shopping for the right one, and then saying I do, when you sign on the  line.  You take an oath to love and obey-not necessarily the speed limits, to honor and hold-the curves, and to maintain her as needed.  Without a commitment, soon she gets old, and the new look so much better-thanks to the ads.  But after 1800 hours, the view over the handlebars still looks good, and the promise of the next ride still calls with excitement.  Fortunately so does my marriage, sadly many don’t have the bragging rights we do.  They have forsaken the commitment, fallen for a pretty face, rather than the time spent with the one you made the commitment to.  I am reminded of a pastor once who said, “next time you look at that pretty young thing, imagine her cooking for you, cleaning for you, picking up after you, and tending you when sick.  Hang on to what you have, it never looked so good.”

While it is so easy to look back on old rides, sometimes we have problems looking forward to what lays ahead.  Yesterday’s miracles are nice, but often we don’t look forward to the new ones with the same attitude.  11 years with any motorcycle is a lot, but when measured in memories rather than years or miles we can look at the time spent differently.  And we anticipate more miles, more memories, and more time riding-no matter how long it takes.  And we look forward to all the miracles to come...if only we looked at our marriages the same way.  I am glad I do, which to many is a miracle, and I can’t say there were times it wasn’t.  But it has taken the commitment of both of us, just like it has taken the commitment with her Bonneville.  Maintenance, which often seemed expensive, but is still cheaper than repairs.  New tires, chains and sprockets, and oil changes have kept it running great.  She still shines and we take great satisfaction when someone cannot believe her age-the bike’s, not Theresa’s.  Although she looks younger to me every day-love will do that.  But even the time and money spent has been an investment, rather than a cost, and we have the rewards to show for it.  If only we took the care in our marriages that we take on our bikes-to some I see it is a miracle either one is still around and running.

So to those who feel marriage is not important, I find Jesus showing it is the most important relationship after our relationship with Him.  Goes all the way back to Adam, and Eve.  So it only makes sense that Jesus’ first miracle was at a wedding, and His last one will complete the marriage.  He turned the water into wine as His first miracle, wine signifying joy, and how it is available as soon as we make the commitment to Him.  The best was saved for last, it got better rather than worse as the feast went on.  But marriage takes that commitment, and just like a Jewish bride, we don’t know the time of His return, the time our groom comes for His bride-us, the church.  So we must honor the commitment we made with Him, keeping it well maintained, fresh, and alive.  We must do things that we must even when we don’t want to, and look forward to the coming service-the final miracle for those who believe here on earth-the one that takes us to heaven, to be with Jesus forever.  And what seems like a big deal now will all make sense, and will pale in comparison to what awaits us.  A life in Christ-and filled with miracles.  Some as small as pushing the starter button and the bike starts-some as big as keeping you safe in the stormy weather.  Some so mundane as our daily grind, that without His daily bread would even seem more miraculous.  But it is the time and energy, the commitment we bring to the relationship that adds life to it.  The closer to Jesus, the more miracles we see.  It is written, these things shall follow them that believe.  Maybe what is following you tells more about who or what you believe than you care to share.  It is like the worn out Bible-it shows of a life that isn’t.  And just one look at the Bonneville shows more miles than the patina shows. 

An old ad once claimed “pay me now, or pay me later.”  Maybe with an old engine, but not in life.  There is no later, just too late.  So honor your commitment to your ride today, and it will honor you.  1800 hours in 11 years-not bad.  Honor the commitment to your spouse even more, and watch as she honors you.  Treat her like lady, she will be one.  Give yourself to her, just like Jesus gave Himself for His church.  But put and keep Jesus first.  Many bikes are shiny, and don’t show the miles, mainly because they haven’t been anywhere-and aren’t going anywhere.  Keeping Jesus first will take you places you never dreamed of, a miracle in itself.  He will add life to the miles, and miles to your life.  1800 miles of memories, just don’t forget the 6 hours it took Jesus on the cross.  Another miracle-just for you.  Maybe go out and take a 6 hour ride-doing it in remembrance of Him.  A communion of riding, just you and Jesus.  Looking back on what He has done, and eagerly anticipating heaven.  Only In Him will you be able to remember the past, but the future too.  Another milestone just waiting to happen.  So much Jesus-it’s gonna take a lot of time.  1800 hours just the beginning.  The next milestone eagerly awaits.  Who you ride with makes all the difference.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the less than perfect motorcycle

After riding for 45+ years, I have sat on more than one motorcycle seat.  Some welcome your tushy, with an ahhh, but after 20 minutes, you start to curse it.  Some have buttons on them for style, which after a while are like sitting on a nail-pointy side up.  And some are hard, like my Corbin, but are comfortable after all day.  But the common theme is, why can’t a company who can build a bike that goes 150 mph, build a seat that you can sit on comfortably?  And while the motor is arguably the heart of the motorcycle, I think there is a relationship between heart and seat that grandmothers know about, but bike builders don’t.  I have watched so many grandmas pat their grandchildren on the bottom, declaring “bless your little heart,” telling maybe there is more of a relationship between your heart and where you sit than we give credit to. My old friend Brett used to comment that on my Z-1 the only reason they covered the seat was so it wouldn’t rust.  If only the manufacturers knew this.  Pass this along if you know one, no matter how fast, if I can’t sit on it for very long, that ain’t cool!

Another thing missing from today’s ultra modern bikes is a place to hang your helmet.  NO matter how long you ride, you will stop, and only nerds carry their helmets everywhere to show they ride.  If you can’t tell by the leather jacket, bugs on my shirt, and my helmet head I ride, you aren’t worth impressing.  And some of us don’t wish to carry our $900 Arai everywhere, and would like a place to hang it on the bike.  On the Thruxton I rode last week, it had no provisions, I finally had to tie it to the rear foot peg stanchion, leaning it against the muffler.  Hope I didn’t hurt the muffler.  But outside of baggers claiming they can hold a full face helmet, places to hang your helmet are few and far between.  Is anybody listening?

No matter how much or where you ride, you need to stop, and maybe lube your chain, or change a tire, or even just turn it around.  Remember center stands?  You are over 35 if you do, they suddenly disappeared when weight became the object, saving 4 pounds, and removing them made one less thing to drag in corners.  Old /5 BMW’s used to balance perfectly on them, both wheels off the ground, and how easy to check the air in the tires when you can spin the wheel.  They also make it easy to spin your bike around  on, when you want to ride off-much like I used to use the hand brake for u-turns in my old MG.  Sadly they also made the self retracting side stand, allowing you to come back and find your prized ride on its side.  Swing it around, sit on the comfy seat, helmet on-ride off.  The perfect motorcycle.  But sadly today we are face with great technology, performance far beyond what we have dreamed of, yet we are left with a less than perfect motorcycle, missing the three things above.  When I look at my old 1978 GS1000, which has a comfy seat, helmet hooks, a center stand, and can go 120 before I shift into 5th, I wonder, how far have we really come?  Why could they do this 35 years ago, but can’t now?  Or is it maybe a don’t, since you can buy center stands, even for the Thruxton, and most bikes do have places to hang helmets, if you are creative enough.  Thank God for Corbin and other custom seat makers-bless their little hearts.

Maybe if we took the attitude of Nehemiah, instead of complaining to each other, we may make an impact.  Too much complaining among each other, and to those who cannot make a difference.  Why go to others, when you need money who are just as broke as you?  Especially when you can go right to God, who has the means to provide, He doesn’t have a committee to report to, or a budget to keep.  He understands comfort, a place to hang cares, and the need of ease like a center stand for your  life.  So after seeing the problem he as faced with, Nehemiah mourned.  We complain.  To each other.  Pity parties, no one ever comes to mine.  But he turned God.  His problem was only a country to rebuild.  But his prayer shows us a simple way to go to God with our problems.  First he faced the facts, no matter how unpleasant.  We tend to lie a little when asked “how are you?”  like God can’t see.  Your friends aren’t so blind either.  After recognizing his condition, he turned from his sin, acknowledging it, knowing God would forgive him.  Get all of the junk out of the way.  That’s confidence, try that one with a tight service manager who tells you they all do that when you complain.  He then reminded God of His promises, that He would rebuild Israel, just like  Jesus promises to meet all our needs according to HIS riches and glory.  A factory warranty for life.  How soon we forget after being turned down for a loan, I must have that new motorcycle!  Even if it is uncomfortable, it is fast, so I won’t have to sit so long on the seat.  Of course, we would never rationalize anything like that.  But we argue and whine, just in case God was busy and didn’t hear.  Maybe we are too busy and didn’t listen.  He then gave Him a specific request.  Know this-if God gives you the desire, He will fulfill it.  Maybe you need a new ride, but God knows you don’t need the payments.  And if you are patient, will provide, the right bike for you, comfy seat, a place to hang your helmet, and a center stand.  If God can design a create us, don’t you think He just might be able to design and create a motorcycle just for you?  35 years ago my old Suzuki hit on all 4, something God has been doing since the beginning.  Maybe there is a certain relationship between heart and bottom that only a grandmother can express, maybe have her write to Honda and tell them.  But for things that demand attention, call on God.  Jesus rides, and for 2000 years I haven’t heard Him complain.  Maybe the perfect seat is that close, and we just have missed it.  Three little things that make the less than perfect motorcycle the perfect ride.  Now if we can only work on the rider...leave that one to God.  He created us, who better to improve upon us.  Just think, Adam was perfect in the beginning before sin.  I wonder if his motorcycle had any problems?  When sin entered the world it didn’t stop with him.  It continues on today.  Maybe Nehemiah’s prayers are worth listening to.  If I remember, his results were just like God promised.  And all I ask for is the three things for my new bikes, found on my old one.  Evolution of the species-is it? Or do you see how creationism is true.  Maybe we are faster, but are we better?  In the beginning starts right now with Jesus...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the logo of Logos

Brand identity is a billion dollar proposition anymore.  Companies spend millions to create an identity for their product, and try to make it identifiable by a logo, you see it and are reminded of their product, and hopefully want to buy it.  Many logos are identifiable, such as the tuning forks of Yamaha, the red wing of Honda, the yellow S of Suzuki, and the green K of Kawasaki.  Just see a bar and shield and you know it stands for Harley.  But some logos use their names, such as Triumph, with only the cool recognizing the difference in the H, separating the Hinckley bikes from the Meriden rides.  FORD is one of the most recognized trademarks in the world.  Back in the sixties, before the Chrysler Pentastar, they had a fratzog, a meaningless name for the Dodge emblem.  See the Star and Laurel, you know it’s a Mercedes Benz.  Blue and white circle, signifying a propeller, it’s a BMW.  Chevy’s bow tie is a national treasure, and the VW emblem in the circle doesn’t have to spell out Volkswagen.  You know, for it has been emblazoned on your memory banks.  The Spencerian script of Coca Cola is perhaps the most recognized, but so is their Dynamic Ribbon, also trademarked.  I am looking at a Dell keyboard, sideways E, no doubt what that is.  Just look for the Golden Arches, now just a big yellow M, you know it is McDonalds.  LEGO, FED EX, UPS, and others are instantly identifiable, some just by their colors.  One of my favorites is Baskin Robbins, where the 31 is incorporated in the BR-clever.  Some have evolved over the years, such as Apple, Shell gasoline, but still remain instantly identifiable.  No doubt what they are selling.  Even political parties are memorable, if just to know who and what they represent.  And the use of blue warning signs everywhere, have eliminated words on signs.  And with the loss of words, kids can’t spell, and text using abbreviations, yet know what they are saying, or claim they do.  I ‘m sure there is a logo for that too.  And all are trademarked, with even names that sound alike being barred from using certain intonations.  Years ago a collector magazine about vintage trucks was called This Old Truck, but the producers were afraid their Show, This Old House may be confused, threatened to sue, and now This Old Truck is called Vintage Truck.  Maybe tells more about the inept crazies who watch TOH, than they want us to know.  But for every product, idea, or concept, eventually it will have logo tied to it.  Just to remind us....Trademarked for their protection.

Now stop a minute and think, what is the most recognized logo of all time, and not trademarked?  For over 2000 years now it has stood for one thing and one thing only?  Give up-it’s the cross!  A logo sent via Logos, the word for God, through which all things were made.  And it stands for Jesus, another one name instantly recognized, but yet many haven’t taken advantage of His offer.  Many wear crosses around their necks, some for style, some for protection, and some for religious purposes.  Some just like the look of it, and some think it helps identify them as a Christian.  But some deny it altogether, and miss out what it stands for-it stands for the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, dying for our sins, and reuniting us with God, His Father, the Logos, in heaven.  It tells us He is God, although He came to earth and lived as a man among us.  Too much theology, get to know Him, then you’ll get it.  Don’t try to get it, then join in.  For it is the Spirit, only available from Jesus, who reveals the mysteries of the gospels.  It takes the logo of Logos!   The cross, and it separates the living from the dead.  But it is also where we are reunited with God.  Have problems, meet at the Cross.  Even the atheists acknowledge the cross, or at least what it is, they don’t believe in a God, and by definition don’t exist.  They are their own logos-how can you deny yourself?  Yet they deny the real Logos, Jesus. 

Take some time to consider what the cross means, and let it become real to you.  More than just a product, or a concept, it is a person, Jesus Christ.  It is the way to Him, a simple idea called the gospel, and available 24/7 for all who seek Him.  Wearing a cross won’t make you a Christian, any more than sitting in church will make you a pew.  Wearing a Harley t-shirt doesn’t make you a Harley owner, they sell more shirts than bikes, and sell a lot of each.  Wearing you cute BMW pendant around your neck, over your heart may tell what is really on your heart.  Logos will tell us something about us, it takes the Logos of Jesus Christ to find out who we really are.

Only one logo means anything, the Logos of God.  If it isn’t on your heart, you are lost.  Given over to gods who cannot save you.  Don’t worship a god like Dagon, who fell over every night and had to be picked up.  Or  motorcycle that needs to be tuned and fueled.  You will get hungry and thirsty again, take a tip from Coca Cola, Jesus was the real thing, and is the real thing, years before they came along.  Look to the cross-what do you see?

If it is a who, you get it.  If not, keep looking, He is waiting for you to take Him into your heart, He already has you in His.  He is the all time logo of all logos-He is the LOGOS!  Accept no substitutes.  Amazing how the cruelest form of execution ever devised represents the only one who can save you.  But you knew all that anyway, didn’t you?  The importance of the cross.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

LAURA 1734

If you have ever read the patches on any biker’s vest, it is not unusual to see one stating “in memory.”  Although we appear to be a rough and tumble group, I have found that if you need something done, call a biker.  They tend to have the biggest hearts, are eager to give of time, and readily open their wallets for a good cause.  Underneath the black leather of many beats a heart of gold, just waiting for the right time to exercise it.  My friend Mark H. is one of them.  He came to San Diego and got involved in motorcycle ministry, along with his wife Laura.  She was a newbie rider, and of course her bike of choice had to be a Harley, any color she wanted as  long as they were the only colors Mark recognized-both black.  And on her first ride to biker church on a Sunday morning, she was riding in front of Mark, just like Theresa rides in front of me so many times.  As they passed the checkpoint in Temecula, Mark noticed her right hand slumping, giving her bike full throttle, then going full speed into concrete barriers-about 70 mph.  Mark went by and slammed on his brakes, dropped his bike and ran to her.  He found her unconscious, in a pool of blood-he was already praying.  And soon the rescue squad would have her off to the hospital, in hope of saving her life.  And Mark, who has been there for so many, was devastated.  By the time I got the call, many had been to see her, among them Pastor Fred Z., who Mark ministered with.  Sitting with Mark after many had left, and for a few afternoons after, we prayed, and he shared much about Laura.  She was able to sit up, was conscious, but in excruciating pain, and every day her hopes of recovery got better.  He would sing to her, and show her a special love that God gives to married couples.  All seemed to be going well.  But then the phone call came...

Laura had died, her injuries were too severe and she was at home and at peace with Jesus.  And Mark had lost his best friend and wife, resting only in the knowledge she was with their best friend Jesus.  And one afternoon while visiting, he shared how he knew God was in the midst of this.  He said they were reading John 17, and God told them this was of great importance.  He also said Laura died at 534pm, and it had some significance, he didn’t know what.  It was then that God comforted him even more, 534pm is 1734 military time.  So rushing to his Bible, he turned to John 17, but there was no verse 34. Which bummed him out, had he missed the message from God?  Then he started reading John 17, and verse 3 and 4 made it all real.  They read as follows-

“And this is eternal life, that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom you have sent.  I have glorified you on earth.  I have finished the work you gave me to do.”  Words written by Jesus, to His Father, before He was crucified.  An insight to a loving relationship between Father and Son, one which we are invited to be part of.  And now it all made sense to Mark, and God gave him peace.  For God has all things under control-even in the harshest of situations. 

Now it turned out we were having our annual CMA Rally in Escondido, and having Sunday service at Biker Church.  And God wasn’t done yet.  Mark and I had gotten close, he once told me that God comforted him throughout the ordeal, but that the pain never goes away.  A pain I hope to never find out about.  But God put on my heart to make a patch for Mark, and his friends, stating simply, “LAURA 1734”  No explanation, but when someone was to ask, a chance to share the testimony Mark had shared with me.  Bikers love stories.  And I made a simple tract to go with it, to leave with the one who asked, and it was in the form of a letter to heaven.  It quoted John 17:3-4, and I signed it, “your loving daughter, Laura.”  When on stage presenting it, I cannot tell if all were tearing, Mark and I were so blinded by tears we couldn’t tell, and as we embraced, God’s love for us truly shined through this man.  Something I had never done before, but God called me to do-I cannot tell how blessed I was and am because of it.  Just a bunch of bikers to some, but to God precious people.  But God wasn’t finished, as we were able to spend time and minister to Laura’s sister and her husband, and Mark’s son and family came to the Lord.  All because of a tragic accident.  All because Jesus loves us so much.  We cannot know many things, among them the time we die.  You have no control over that, I can attest to that.  But you do have a choice of how to live, and I hope you choose life in Christ.  Laura was ready, she just didn’t know the time or the way.  We won’t either.  On the way to church, or wherever, make sure you ride with Jesus.  When your work is completed, reward awaits you in heaven.  That is eternal life.  Those are Jesus’ words.  Bring Him glory today and assure your place in heaven.  When He gets the glory, you get the blessings.  For God so loved bikers, hookers, bankers, politicians-even you, He gave His only son-Jesus.  That you may know Him.  LAURA 1734, just another patch?  Only if your God is just another God.  She was that special to Him. You are that special to Him.  I hope He is to you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

living in the land of commercials

Somewhere out there, where no one has ever gone, yet aspires too, is this land that is portrayed in TV commercials.  Beautiful women live there, who never gain weight, and if they do, instantly lose it and tell you about it,while wearing bikinis.  Teenagers are seen walking in schools with pristine hallways, no graffiti in sight, the only signs being hand painted telling of the dance this Friday night.  Ballplayers are shown without a wad in their mouths, no tattoos, and are speaking English, our national language.  They portray a clean cut image, far from performance enhancing junkies some have become.  Businessmen  have become businesswomen, and still find time to run a corporation, do their daughter’s science project, make a five course dinner-from scratch, and go out for the evening with their male counterpart, their husband.  While their kids stay home, homework done on their laptop, and in bed by 10.  They say cool things like yes, sir, no mam, and please and thank you.  They have perfect teeth, new bikes, and the coolest friends.  They ride skateboards that are not worn down from grinding, new Nikes, have a trendy haircut, and never wear the same outfit twice.  The girls never get zits, at age 10 know all about which make-up goes with which clothes, and never have to worry about birth control-sex is forbidden, although it is implied.  No one lives in a bad neighborhood, a bad one is where the homes are not part of an HOA, and every hedge is trimmed, all cars washed, and never more than a year old.  All bought on a special deal available to them due to their high FICO score, and even the youngest of newlyweds still has a new car, not quite a Lexus yet, but some minivan in which they all try to express their individuality by looking the same.  And if they happen to have a motorcycle, heaven forbid, it is a Harley, new of course, and the neighbors question his manhood behind his back, and his family values.  He is a rebel, an outlaw, and pity the fool who moved in next to him without knowing he owned a motorcycle.  “You mean he actually wears a leather jacket to ride?”  And all is well in this suburban utopia, where the only reality is so unreal that no one could or would live there. 
They pay more, get less, and are fooled by whatever trend is foisted upon them next.  Yet no one ever sees them except on a TV commercial, so why do so many aspire to be like them?  What is this unity that binds us together so loosely, yet allows us to be just like everyone thinks the world sees them as?

Growing up cars were longer, lower, and wider...the bigger, the better.  Bigger engine, meant more power, which meant more power.  And the 50’s and 60’s drove us to bigger and better, just like MPG does today.  You want more MPG and cool, ride a motorcycle.  Too cool for you, ride a bike.  Sorry, I thought you were interested in more MPG, not impressing your neighbor.  Except performance then wasn’t a dirty word like it is today.  And without knowing it, we have gotten what we wanted, or at least what we think we wanted.  Or told we we wanted.  An anonymous GM executive, commenting on the fickle buying public, once said, “if the public wants to lower its standard of living by driving a cheap crowded car, we’ll make it.”  Look around guys, as you stuff yourself in some Japanese import, or minivan that seats a Little League team, he said this in 1958-how far have we really come as a society?  Do we really aspire to be mediocre?  Yet we base success on that very thing.  We are united, under a myth or illusion, and don’t even realize it, or do we?

We hear of Unity through diversion-that’s a joke, or unity through team loyalty-just watch any pregame football tail gate party.  Did you ever think you would tire of Dockers on every male?  Or everyone driving a vehicle that is gray, black, or white?  Where are the colors of red, blue, yellow, or green?  I even saw a dark gray Corvette the other day-boring.  Yet we all seek some unity, something to belong to, some intangible that we can exhibit through tangibility-seeing is believing.  The early church, and the church of today is fighting the same battle.   I tire of hearing of unity within the body, and we see it in cults like the white shirted boys on bikes of Mormonism.  But even they have a unity that the Christian church aspires to, but thankfully has not attained.  We have a freedom in Jesus to be ourselves, no matter what we drive or ride, where we live, buy or rent, or how trendy our Wranglers are.  He talks of unity in the spirit, simply explained, yet missed by most.  He tells us that unity is in Him, so that we may be in Him, and know the truth, and our lives portray it.  So that the world may believe that Jesus is who He said He is and was, that God sent His son to save us, and that it is an inescapable evidence that Jesus is God, and we have all the power and strength in Him.  That is unity-based on Him, not based on us agreeing on something, but based on Jesus.  Us in Christ and Christ in us.  It is that simple!  So that people may see He holds the key to history, and the future.  That is unity, unity in the spirit.  That is what I want. 

Has your life become cheap and crowded based on what other tells you about Christ, or is Jesus real to you?  Do you get religion every week, yet feel empty, or do you get Jesus, and a yearning for a deeper relationship with Him?  If your Bible cover is trendy and your pages not worn, maybe it tells more about your religion than you care for us to know.  Be yourself in Christ, enjoy freedom in the spirit, a unity of believers based on Jesus. 
We call it Christianity because it is based on Jesus.  Somewhere in your gospel of self, find Jesus and let Him out.  And watch the world around you change.  No longer living in a land of commercials, but in the reality of a loving God who sent His son so we could have a relationship with Him.  Just for once, I would like to see an ad for that!

So ask yourself, why don’t they ever show the lines at Disneyland?  Why do car companies tout their warranties, but you never see them towing one into the shop?  Unity in the spirit, no lines, no sign ups.  Just Jesus.  No false claims, just the truth.  Love, joy, and peace.  Virtues and values found nowhere else in commercial land.  Break for the program.  Once upon a time is now.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

riding around LA

After one year since my open heart surgery, I will be riding my first 3500 mile month.  A feat I used to do regularly, without getting tired, or bored, now I am fatigued from, but very happy.  I have ridden six different motorcycles this month, two of mine and four from Triumph, and will get a seventh one tomorrow.  The first 1200 miles were on an 800 mile round trip to the Hollister Rally, which we turned into a 1300 mile ride, and then 1100 miles on a 2014 Explorer XC.  Then the phone rang, it was Mick, he had bikes to go to Sturgis on the Demo truck, they needed quick miles, 300 each, and you have 5 days to do it.  So...I put 300 on an 800 Tiger, another 300 on an Explorer, and 500 on a 2014 Thruxton.  Now usually I get to brag about states and time zones crossed for these amount of miles, but this time I never left California, and after the Hollister ride, I never left So Cal.  Where did I go and better yet, where have I been?  Never went above 127 mph. Gotta stop and think on that one...so here goes.

The city of Los Angeles has turned into a metro area that extends almost to San Diego, only interrupted by Camp Pendleton on I-5, north to Santa Barbara, and east the desert.  Now it is comprised of Orange County, the Inland Empire, Riverside County, and Ventura County, and once you have left them, then you are out of the metro area.  200 miles in any direction from my house, with one obstacle in your way when going north-Los Angeles, the city of Angels.  And the question that begs to be answered is, how do you get around LA?  I mean, how do you escape So Cal on your way out of this huge metro area?

For the first trip, try I-5, to the 405, then back on the 5 north of the city.  Or take the Hollywood Freeway from the 5 to the 101. Or take I-15 to the 91, the 71, the 57, the 210, to the 5 and you are passed downtown-again.  Or the 60, the 10, or the 210 off of the 15.  Or the 101, 134, or the 118 and you still can hit the 5 by Magic Mountain.  Sport bike in your blood, take the 138 to Angeles Crest, or stay on the 138 to the 14-cutting off into the San Gabriel’s as you wish.  So many roads, so many miles, and no wonder I rode so much and never went anywhere but LA! And there are more, but I think you get the idea.  So one day I decided I would be smart, and rode to Victorville, then home, an easy 225 mile afternoon, with minimum of traffic.  But the next day I had missed the stress and confusion of LA and rode through the Valley, almost to Malibu, where the traffic was horrible, and turned around in the land of the Kardashian’s-Calabasas.  Lane splitting my way through LA, what was I thinking that afternoon, and then home-again.  It seems everywhere you look you are still in LA, or at least under its influence.  But this weekend will be different.

So on Sunday Theresa and I rode out to East County, to Pine Valley.  Riding on her Bonneville, we stayed on some old roads, and ran slower speeds, and I was able to ride without thinking of my next freeway.  150 easy miles, never went above 80, and was rested when we got home.  But tomorrow Orange County calls, then downtown San Diego.  It seems I have to ride in this world, but do I have to become part of it?  I have to realize that although I ride through LA, I am not part of it.  Sometimes I can ride around it or ride around LA.

Just like Jesus tells us, and used the example of His disciples.  He told them not to be part of the world, even though they would live in it.  He would not rescue them from it, but rather take them through it, not take them out of it.  Today I know of certain Christians who only will shop in a Christian business, do business with only Christians, and hang out with only Christians.  Yet talk to me about what great evangelists they are.  Are they only evangelizing each other, or am I missing something?  Aren’t we supposed to go out into the world, proclaiming the gospel, and shining our light, rather than hiding it just for others who think and agree with us?  What if one of these had not approached you in your fallen, pre-Christian state, would you have ever been saved?  What if you stayed within your church, your family, and business and never got out from under it?  Is that evangelizing?  Is that spreading the word?  Yet many criticize those of us who do, just like they did Jesus for hanging out with crooks, hookers, junkies, bikers, and others who were considered less desirable.  And they miss out on the blessings of the harvest, and of getting to know all of Jesus.  They stay in their comfort zone, uncomfortable, never knowing the comfort zone in the spirit, depending on Jesus to meet their needs-of Him taking them through the valleys and over the mountains-they never leave where they are, and are miserable.  It’s like never leaving LA-there is a whole another world out there, just past the city-and off the freeways.

So Jesus prayed we would be safe from the evil one, and not fall into the world’s traps and snares.  To rise above them, and not be contaminated by them, we can be who we are in Jesus, but only with Him.  Today you will be offered many roads to take, some will take you in and some around.  And just like LA, there will be traffic jams, obstacles to go around.  Careful planning does not always prepare for the unexpected accidents slowing traffic, or guarantee a safe route.  Only in Jesus will you reach your destination.  It may no be what you expected, but it is what He knows will be, and you can trust Him.  Jesus always got where He was going-and you can too, He promises heaven, can you think of another way to get there?  There isn’t.  So trust Him today-just like all roads don’t lead to LA, and some roads lead around LA, not all roads lead to Christ.  Believe Jesus rather than some bumper sticker on the car you are stuck behind in traffic, either way you can be in the way.  One is in the way of others, the right one is in the way of Jesus.  I’m not sure how I did it, 3500 miles and never leaving home.  My back yard must be larger than others-explaining why the road is my home, and why I feel so comfortable on it.  Jesus lived His life on the road...another great reason to ride.  Some ride around LA, I choose to ride in and around LA...and around the US of A... in Christ.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the parable of the milkshake

Although Theresa and I like to travel alone, we are really traveling together.  Add another rider on another bike, and suddenly the pace changes.  You only go as fast as the slower rider, and when she rides her Bonneville, we have certain agreements.  I let her lead, she has come a long way from never riding on freeways, to never going 55, to cruising along at 80-85.  Which she will deny to any officer of the law.  She has also learned to lane split, and very rarely do we get separated, and if we do, we have a destination to meet at.  Like when the curves attack, and I just have to go faster, I wait  at the end for her, and the times of waiting are getting smaller, she rides faster now, I haven’t slowed down.  I have full confidence in her riding skills, and her judgment, unlike too many others who shall remain nameless, so as to preserve their integrity, you make your own decisions after riding with them.  But one group always comes to mind, one that if given the chance would ride with again, Don and Linc from Portland, and with the passing of Don, I only have memories, and no more expectations.  On any ride it is good to know where you are going, and when riding across the US of A in 7 days, communication is vital.  So each night we would discuss the prearranged route, we had ceremonies to attend each night, and plan a speed to ride at, based on the roads.  If too slow, you knew the destination, if too fast, same thing.  But we all stayed together, working it out.  Also fuel stops were based on the smallest tank, and no unnecessary fuel stops were taken, with some exceptions.  Older bladders need emptying more often, call them a pit stop.  And with Linc following up, no one wandered off, got lost, or dragged behind.  We all made it, safely, happily, and would do it again.  Consider this an invitation.

Now for an unexpected pit stop, or call this a refueling of the body.  We were outside Cuba, Missouri that is, and the signs pointing to Steak and Shake were too tempting, so we pulled in.  Now with 12 of us ranging in age from late twenties to early 70’s, we were a group to behold.  But age meant nothing to us, as although some were older, none were old, and let the milkshakes begin.  Now if you have never had a milkshake at Steak and Shake, when the sign appears-STOP!  You can diet tomorrow, or like we did once, have  a yogurt shake, saving 60 calories.  But you have to indulge, which is what we all did.  And as any group of kids does, we got loud-we were having fun.  And when I asked the waitress for some hats like they wear, she thought it was a good idea, and gave us each one.  Which only meant one thing-pictures!  And so all of us immature milkshake drinkers went out, and had a woman take our picture, 12 times, one for each camera that was lined up at the curb.  At first she was wondering what she had gotten into, but soon joined in the fun.  Our meal of milkshakes complete, photo op fulfilled, and new friend made, we were off again.  A time I will never forget, if I can ever find the pictures, they need no words to describe the fun.  Why should fun or milkshakes be wasted on the young?  And we were only half way to Ground Zero...

I heard a pastor tell once that many hands make light work.  Trying to do a job alone, even if it only takes one, company is welcome, as long as it isn’t another advisor.  Just meeting fellow riders at a rest stop can provide all the company needed to compare notes.  And as Theresa can attest to, when the fuel light comes on, and you don’t obey it, you have someone to wait with you for help.  Just like Jesus sent out His disciples, in pairs.  Your mind can wander on long trips, and having someone to talk to helps.  They see things you missed, can help push you if you break down, and provide first aid if needed.  They can help you keep a level head, and also share great things of the Lord-I have found no problem in talking to myself on long trips alone, but when the non-existent other voice answers, then argues, I pull over.  Even if no Steak or Shake is in sight. 

And on cold nights I cannot over emphasize the benefits of not being alone.  So Jesus has given us wives and friends to travel with, but He has also given us the Holy Spirit-so we are never alone.  Knowing you need to pray, but not sure of how or what?  Ask the spirit to intercede, and then a simple amen seals it.  For where two or more are present so is Jesus, and who could be a better prayer partner than the Holy Spirit, the third person of the trinity?  It is like God praying for you, and with you at the same time.  You can’t go wrong!  So maybe there is hope for those who ride alone, and prefer a crowd of one to a crowd of many.  But when more help is needed, God provides the hands to do the work.  But take heed of His warning, the harvest is plentiful, but the workers few.  And before you get testy, and waste time worrying and grumbling about the lack of help-remember with more work comes more blessings.  For you.  All the ones that could have been shared are all yours.  And a good nights sleep included.  So you can ride more the next day.

God wants to bless you, but sometimes it takes work to complete the project.  God knew beforehand who would show up, and you are never alone.  Many hands may make light work, but in His hands you find joy and peace.  Which leaves more time to ride, more time for milkshakes, but more importantly more time with God.  Which is never a bad thing.  Share a ride or a milkshake with Him today.  Bring along a friend, I’ll bring Theresa.  One condition-order your own.  Maybe share a sip or two.  But like the blessing God has for you, they are only better when shared with others. Riding alone or even in a crowd, you are never lonely.  Make mine a strawberry cheesecake shake, I’ll drink to that!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com