how does your garden grow?

Young Alison was the boss's daughter, and born with a silver spoon in here mouth. One summer in between semesters at Wellesley, her dad assigned her to me to learn more about this business he owned. And for weeks I was the tutor, mentor, and often baby sitter of this Jewish princess, and although we were separated by many layers of fiscal society, we became friends. Many didn't like her because she was the boss's daughter, which she would remind you of, and there was more than once I knew she went and tattled on me to her dad. "What did mean old Mike do now?" I could hear her crying to him, and him consoling her. "Just marry a rich Harvard man, dear, and then you won't have to suffer the iniquities of working with a lesser class of people. Or working at all." Which may have been why he gave her to me-so she would be reminded that princesses don't work-they marry rich princes and tend the affairs at the castle. A summer where we both learned a lot, and was reminded that it was true what F. Scott Fitzgerald said, "the rich are different."

There is an old tale about a rich man who one summer decided to retreat to the family cabin at the lake. Owned for generations, it was used rarely, but kept up by caretakers, who assured him it would be ready when he arrived. And when he did found it much like he remembered as a kid, but older, like he was. Part of the deal was to have a young man haul water for him, as the well was sporadic, and had to be hauled up from a spring. At least for the time being.

The first day when this young man, in his early teens arrived, the old man gave him two buckets, and told him to keep the cisterns full. The young man excitedly started, but after a few trips was spilling more on the ground, than was getting into the cisterns. And when the old man chided him, responded "the buckets are old and leak. Only half the water gets there." To which the old man retorted, "then make twice as many trips." And noticing the water spilling on both sides of the ground next to the stony path, also told him to keep the path mud free.

After mildly arguing, mostly comprised of "can't you just buy new buckets?" and being told they were good enough when the old man was his age, shaking his head the young man continued his daily pilgrimage up the path-leaving a trail of muddy water on both sides of the path. But never on it.

This went on for the first month, and as the summer started, it got hotter, but the young man still carried those leaky buckets. And found that carrying that extra weight had grown muscles in him, and made the repeated trips easier as he physique grew. One morning, the old man went out for a walk, which was unusual, as he still did business from the cabin, and rarely left it, even having groceries and his other necessities delivered. And as he walked down the path, noticed both sides lined with beautiful flowers. Yellows, blues, purples, and greens that hadn't been there when he arrived. "When did you plant these flowers? I didn't ask you to,"he demanded. And the young man, looked at him very calmly and answered, "you must have sir. They may have been almost dead, but because of deep roots, and when the water spilling from the buckets watered them, they came back to life. Pretty aren't they, but are of a type that only grew here 30-40 years ago. My dad told me." All the old man could do was smile, almost in disbelief, as he remembered planting them, and nurturing them as a young man himself, remembering all the hard work he had put in, and he himself carrying buckets of water to nourish them. Except the buckets were new then, and didn't leak. Maybe it was more than the buckets that had sprung a leak.
Hard ground made soft, both in an old man's heart, and an old flower bed, just by consistent watering. You see God uses water in the Bible to refer to the Holy spirit, and how it softens a heart. And when a heart is soft, it grows, and produces beautiful fruit in a believer's life. Take time to look at the garden you live in-is it full of weeds from neglect, or dead and dry from life interfering with your plans? At one time did it produce beautiful flowers, or now is it hard and dry? Sometimes it takes a leaky bucket to bring the spirit back into your life and soften your heart. To grow where you are planted.

In the old man's case all it took was a persistent young man to carry the buckets, and while he watered the ground that the old man had planted, God provided the growth-and both were blessed.

Maybe Alison's dad was trying to show her about hard work, or about persistence, or how it is easier to marry rich-but she missed the lesson about growing where you are planted. She only learned about perservering a summer without the blessings of playing. Not what God desires for you. He wants your relationship with Him personal. Don't say when "I'm rich and when I can afford it I'll serve God." You won't. "Or I'll get my career going, then become a Christian." You're only lying to yourself-and God. So take the time now, and enjoy the blessings that only a relationship with Him can afford. Don't wait, or make excuses, or think your situation is hopeless. If God can bring flowers that were dead back to life, imagine what He can do in your life. It's just a matter of where your roots are, and how deep they go. And by your fruit, we will know.

Paul planted, Appollos watered, but it was God that provided the growth. Lesson learned... in the Jesus Zone!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

confronting nice shovels

In 1998 Bob Lutz wrote Guts. An iconic figure in the automotive world, Guts is about breaking rules, setting higher standards, and about actually achieving goals while thinking outside of the box. A scary subject to address successful managers with, and a man that today in his late 70's still commands a top position at General Motors, a position that the new Government Motors insisted he keep when the good old US of A got into the car business. And I like Bob, he says what he thinks, in his words, "when confronted by a spade, I don't say nice shovel." A man who does not readily follow conventional ways. A strict vegetarian, who also smokes cigars, and drinks martinis. Real martinis-read his book. A man excited about new technology in electric cars, and who happens to fly his own Aero L-39 Albatross. A man who was successful at BMW, Ford, Chrysler, and now GM. And in his book, Guts, shares some of his insightful wisdom in handling problems. With titles to chapters like "the customer isn't always right, too much quality can ruin you, and disruptive people are an asset," he tells it like it is, and how it should be. And since he has been successful, he finds he has a rapt audience awaiting him. Being different isn't necessarily wrong, different sometimes is well-different.

Fonzie once told Richie that to have a reputation of being tough, you once had to hit someone. No problem asking the Fonz about toughness. Just don't ask Richie. Talk to Tony Gwynn about hitting, or Michael Jordan about NBA Championships. Talk with Ronald Reagan about successful running of a country, and how turn one around, and I think you get the point. You want the best advice, so you go to the guy who has done it, or won it, or been there. One who didn't make excuses, or blame someone else, one who just got 'er done when it needed to be done. One who accepted responsiblity, and wouldn't settle for second best-despite the outcome. Who operated outside the box, and was successful. Whose name and reputation was on the line.

In ministry, I find it is essential to operate outside of the box, or outside of rules sometimes. When I received a e-mail about a man in the hospital, I inquired could I visit him, and told him I wasn't part of the ministry he belonged to. His answer, "I don't think it will break any of our rules, but I'll check." And I never heard from him. I constantly, and disappointingly so, encounter men who are disappointed because no one they ask to go to church with them accepts. Yet they haven't the heart to sit down with a homeless man over a Happy Meal. The old "get them to church and let the pastor tell them about Jesus, I did my job. " That's not being a witness. And not being sure what your job was, just saw you pass the buck, and miss a blessing. Nice shovel-NOT!

Disruptive people can be an asset. If you have this mental picture of Jesus carrying a sheep under one arm and telling kid stories to a group of children, you just may have an inaccurate view of Him. He did not come into this world so that everyone would play well together. He knows better, and so should you. He knew of a consistent and persistent evil, and came to "separate the sheep from the goats" as he put it. To seek and save those that are lost. And He did it by showing a consistent love to all, sheep or goat, and let them make the decision of which one they would be. Was He disruptive? Of course, He told them the truth despite the outcome and potential danger to Him. No nice shovels in His walk, He was truthful with anyone from the women with seven husbands at the well, to the know it all Pharisees. But He did it in love. And in truth, and He did it consistently. And the fact that He was God incarnate may have helped! But He got 'er done, even unto the cross-and His resurrection afterwards.

So why do people seek Oprah's advice? Why pay $200/hour for some shrink to tell you it's not your fault? Why run an opinion poll to know what to think? When you can seek Jesus, get the truth, save money, and be pointed in the right direction. In love. You see, we need to think like Jesus. We need to think outside of the box, outside of the tomb-to realize He is resurrected, and He lives.
To know that His promises are yes and amen. To know His words are true, and that His love for us is not an emotion-for truly love is a person, and that person is Him. We need to roll away the stone that lies between us and the truth, and follow Him. Just like on that first Resurrection Day, we need to find the grave empty, and Jesus alive in our lives! We need to be disruptive in our walk, not letting lies and opinions shape our walk, but follow the Spirit. We need to trust God so much that we appear careless, but are really carefree, for we trust God in all things.

Bob Lutz wrote Guts. But Jesus Christ had guts. Till the end, when He spilled them out on the cross for you. Today you will be confronted with those that wish to steer you from the truth. Know which end of the spade to grab, and it's OK not to call it a nice shovel. Call it what it is-sin. And call Jesus who He is-Lord and Savior. The Christ. Messiah.

And you will find that you add friend, confidant, and love to the titles. The customer isn't always right, and it's OK to visit people in the hospital. Even if you don't belong to the same club. You keep your laws, I'll keep my Jesus. A true disruptive rebel to the end. Show some Guts, go love someone in Hs name-today.

love with compassion, and guts,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the carpenters

Richard first heard the song while watching TV. On a commercial for Crocker Bank, a melody by Paul Williams played in the background, and the words moved him. At this point in his life he was still a struggling composer/arranger/musician, but here was a tune that was to change all that. And with this new arrangement of this commercial's melody, he had the hit he was looking for. All he needed was the voice, and that was where his sister Karen enters the story. With his gift for composing, and her angelic voice, the song shot to #1! The song-We've Only Just Begun. A song that for the next decade, and even today, is the most popular song played at weddings. And has even been used to console and dissuade suicide attempts, a song of hope, of new beginnings. The group-The Carpenters, a brother and sister from Downey, California. A duet, that for the next four years would have a dozen hit singles, and establish them in music history.

Richard would go on and become a famous composer, and also accumulate one of the greatest Chrysler car collections in the world, named Yesterday Once More, after one of their hits. Karen, a first class drummer in her own right, would use that angelic voice, along with her God given ability to make Richard's music come alive. Her ability was uncanny, as evidenced on Superstar, written by Leon Russell. Never having heard the song, she got it right on the first take, while reading the words written on a napkin. A true musical team if there ever was one.

But as secure as Richard was, Karen had some inner demons, that appeared in the form of eating disorders. For years she battled anorexia and bulimia, while still trying to maintain an exhausting recording and touring schedule. She underwent treatment, but the pain in her was so deep, that it finally took her life from her-and ended a career, and a relationship with her brother and their fans way too early. At one time they were the Carpenters. Now without Karen he was alone. Without her he was just a Carpenter.

"Just a carpenter, and from Nazareth no less. No one or anything good ever comes from there," the people declared. And looking at this young Nazarene carpenter, there appeared nothing unusual about him. But yet he would end up being the most famous man in the history of the world. He never wrote a song, and there is no evidence he ever sang, but more songs have been written about him than all others combined. He never became famous, at least while alive, and was humble-it was his humility that gave him greatness, for he never brought attention to himself, always giving credit to his father. And even though his early career was as a carpenter, it was rumored he built yokes, a true artisan, he is best remembered for the last three years of his life-a career, like Karen, that at first was thought to be ended by demons, but then he was resurrected-proving to be who he said he was all along-the son of God, and God incarnate.

And it is through him, that we can have eternal life. If "the love that I've found ever since you've been around, your love put me on the top of the world," is your daily blessing, you know Jesus-the man from Nazareth. If like the song says, "just like me, they long to be, close to you," then the holy spirit is flowing from your life, and pointing people to Jesus. But if you don't know him as lord and savior, it is not to late, for today is the day of salvation. Give your heart to him today, and "sing, sing a song, make it simple to last the whole day long." And "don't worry if it's not good enough, for anyone else to hear, just sing-sing a song!" And you know what, he loves to hear from you. And you know what, "you've only just begun, to live..." In Christ Jesus,

love with compassion, "sharing horizons that are new to us... together..."

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

of golf carts and taxi cabs-volume one

When we moved to Durango I mentioned that I would clean horse puckey to live there. And I came close, as I worked at at a truck stop that dumped bus commodes. But we were also the only place in town that sold diesel fuel, so we would get the occasional diesel car, the station being on the old highway and most big trucks would by-pass it. We did get an unusual string of cars in one day, led by a diesel Rabbit. This group of cars, all driven by Japanese engineers, employed by General Motors, was testing their prototypes against the Rabbit. Carefully pouring gas into a graduated container, then filling the car, they would then use their slide rule to figure mpg, and one engineer commented to me "we can never get the mileage the Rabbit does." So they retaliated with the infamous 350 gas to diesel conversion. Anyone remember that catastrophe?Do any of you pre-MTV people know what a slide rule is?

Diesel engines, compression firing, cannot use gasoline, but diesel #2. Diesel #1 is kerosene or jet fuel, and sometimes can be cut with #2 in the winter to make it flow-diesel will gel and clog fuel lines when cold. It also was only sold at truck stops, so if you owned one, you dealt with big trucks, sometimes surly owners, wondering what you were doing at their stop, and the owners tended to be a bit differ rent. Costing more to initially purchase, you had to travel twice the miles to make it pay for itself vs. a gas engine. Add to that higher maintenance costs, and you had a vehicle that would get superior mileage, but cost more, along with that diesel odor, smelly exhaust, long warm up times, and an oily residue on everything you touched-only the owner could tell if it made sense to them. Did I mention you also got to rub shoulders with owners of CAT diesel powered rigs? DT66 drivers? Cummins drivers who all wondered why a nice person like you was doing at a dirty truck stop? They went home in their nice gas cars. But you did get more mpg. But to those of us who weren't into diesel, we just thought the diesel owners were a little strange-and they probably were.

I always wondered, why if you can afford to drive a Mercedes Benz, would you buy a diesel that was mostly sold around the world for taxi cabs? When 2% of the richest drove Mercedes Benz, why take a cab home, and park it in your garage? True, it works for semis, and locomotives, and one of the best applications is used on farms, for their trucks and equipment, where the uninformed fieldworker only stole diesel once, thinking it is gas, and clogging up his motor. Gas and diesel are not compatible with each other. Stuck on the side of the road, with that diesel smell, it is hard to plead innocent, but not ignorant. As one of the pump jockeys I worked with learned when he filled this guys new Scirocco with diesel. Fortunately the guy only made it 500', so we didn't have to push him farther, and it didn't damage the gas engine. Do not try this trick at home. Today even the military uses a highly modified diesel KLR 650 engine in their motorcycles-more low end power to move this over laden motorcycle, and the enemy is stuck much like the Scirocco owner when gas is used instead if taken. A glimpse of military intelligence.

Today diesel engines are far superior, due to being computer driven, don't even smell like a diesel, and start quick and accelerate just like a gas motor. Only the badge on the fender gives them away. And their position at the pump. Only the true diesel believer really knows.

Some people are like the modern diesel today. Many say they are Christians, and even walk and talk like one-but inside they are missing the key ingredient that makes them one-Christ! Like their cars they have the right labels, go to the right churches, and listen to the right music. They attend Bible studies, support ministry events, but inside are missing the changed heart that only Jesus can give. And sadly, their names are not written in the book of life. But they have never given their lives to Christ-and have so close yet are so lost. Good people-not saved people. Yet they subtly run on the fuel of the world, instead of the fuel of the spirit. And fall back on their good work record, and sense of duty when questioned-if they are even challenged at all. And they even get fueled at the same station/church, but only one is being fueled, the other not realizing that a good feeling doesn't save you-only accepting Jesus Christ as Lord does. You can put love into an unsaved person, and it can make them run like a Christian-but in the end they aren't. The fruit of the spirit cannot grow in them, and sadly many go to their grave thinking they are saved-when they are not.

How do you know you are saved? Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and savior? Are you born again? Just like Nicodemus, who understood things of the law, but was challenged by Jesus in things of the spirit, it takes the Holy Spirit to point you to Jesus, who points you to God-He is the only way. Does your heart yearn for God? So did Nicodemus. Do you do good things, and obey traditions and the law? Again, so did Nicky. But when he realized who Jesus was, he was there with Joseph of Arimethea to get his body. He gave it all up when he realized who Jesus was, and he was among the richest men of his time, as well as the Pharisee of Pharisees. Money and position, along with knowledge are not enough.

Who do you say He is? If you answer like Peter, "thou art the living God, thou art the Christ," you answer well, and your life will reflect it.

He is not just a great teacher, or great healer, or a great man. He is God incarnate-Lord and savior. He is God-deity.

And if you have never prayed to accept Him, even after years in church, you can do it right now. Just pull up to the right pump-and He will fill your heart and life. He will fuel your life and give it style. And it won't take bumper stickers or t-shirts to tell the world you are saved. We can tell by the sweet aroma your life will give off. Not like the stinky diesel smell of the world.

Filled up by the Holy Spirit-accept no worldly alternative fuels. They are expensive and can cause damage. Jesus-the only way to heaven- He is the ultimate alternative fuel!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25 biker.blogspot.com

greater is He who is in me-and doesn't leak out

As long as there have been motors, there have been gaskets to hold them together. And if they aren't leaking-yet, they will someday. We still joke on about old Brit bikes that if yours isn't leaking it must be out of oil, add two quarts. The old Harley joke, what does HD stand for? Hound dog, they like to ride in the back of trucks and mark their spot. Old BMW's don't leak. At least per the indoctrinated to the brand-they weep. Then along came the Japanese that didn't, so like on the Z-1 added a chain oiler using engine oil from the crankcase-a leak engineered in. Maybe just to make the old Triumph owners feel more one with their bike. But no matter the engine, it is held together by gaskets.

Gaskets-what are they? Simply put, they provide a seal between two machined parts. And do it magnificently, most of the time. From simple paper, to chemicals ranging from RTV silicone-trivia buffs take note-RTV stand for Room Temperature Vulcanizing. Rolls Royce even came up with Hylomar, which is now universally used as it never vulcanizes, but expands and contracts with heat. And today's paper has given way to neoprene seals incorporated in various types of metal-all doing one thing-keeping the oil inside the engine. And they must do it from temperatures and pressures ranging from the outside cold, to the internal hot. Below zero to 250 degrees. You see metals will expand and contract with heat-remember that from chemistry? And heat produces pressure, and increases the liquid's desire to want to escape. Simple, and the only thing between you and the spot under your bike is a gasket. Or between your ride and watching as your other friends go by. And when they fail, the only cure is replacement, no band aids or smearing a wonder sealant over it-replace the gasket! And the equation is simple. Leak+seal=time and money-LOST! So simple even a ------ owner can get it!

There are no needs for gaskets in a relationship with God. The surface of our heart that mates with Jesus, is a perfect fit. He built us to match with Him, remember we were built in His image, not some off shore replica. When you accept Jesus you are a perfect fit-no leaking, weeping, or spots on the ground where you park. But just the opposite happens when something gets between you and God. You leak. Internally from the heart. You see nothing should ever come between you and God-that is His desire for you. But once again life interferes, and with or without our knowledge, we leak. This gasketting material we let get between us and God causes leaks-it is called sin. And once again it comes down to our choice to participate or not. And it comes from places we may not expect to leak, and the leak doesn't always show. Years ago I made up my heart and mind to not let anything get between God and me. It is a choice. But there again, the leaks are subtle. A ministry can become more important than God. Your car, motorcycle, or hobby can take precedent over walking with Him. Even a wife or family can interfere, and what's worse is we make excuses for our failures.

"Look at all the good the good I'm doing for God," they say, when really all the attention goes to them. Kids suffer from lack of parents being there, and seek alternatives-and sin is readily available. Money goes to your new chrome whosywhatchit, instead of for the things of God, and there again, you and your family suffer. Wives can be more important than God, and excuses are made, and a marriage that once was strong, is now weak and leaking love, because only when God is first in the relationship can the wife be the woman the man desires, and only then can the man be the man the wife needs. God's system, and they work.

And like when we fall and see no blood figure there is no damage, not all leaks show. When a head gasket leaks internally between antifreeze and oil, it causes a milkshake color to occur. And is only internal until you remove the cap-and there it is-damage done. And hopefully found before you are stuck-generally on the side of the road. And the repair is the same as the external leak-replace the gasket-and hopefully no other internal damage has occurred.

Is your life not quite as joyous as it once was? Problems at home, with kids, or at work with the boss or others? Can't find time to read the Bible, and now has no desire? More time spent polishing chrome than with God? Have Sunday mornings meant riding with friends, instead of fellowshipping at church with other believers? Check and see-what has gotten between you and God. And let god repair the leak. It is called repentance, and once you do, He will make all things new-or sometimes even better. It's a relationship, and it takes both to participate. God is ready and willing, are you?

No visible signs of leakage? I hope you catch it before all the love you once had leaks out. The signs are there, and maybe others see them. Get your life checked out with Jesus today. Maintenance is cheaper than repairs, and just may make your ride, or walk with God even more exciting. Catch the leak before it is too late. Babies wear diapers, is your walk past that stage with Christ?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the law-it just doesn't add up

Math was always a very tough subject for me. It's boundaries were so very restrictive-it was either a right or wrong answer-like 2+2=4, not 2+2 could be 4, or may 4 1/2. It couldn't feel like six, and changing the colors still added up to 4. It was exact, not like my life, so it had some accountability to it, and made it feel cold and impersonal. Which laws are. But then I found it could be used to measure things exactly-like engine sizes, or 1/4 miles, or car payments, and I began to see why its exactness was so important. I began to understand algebraic equations, and even some basic geometry. And once I learned its laws, I did OK. But one thing was consistent-it was cold, impersonal-you were either right or wrong-and it spoke a universal language. With no room for error. Did you realize that numbers are not restricted by the boundaries of countries-although the measurements are used to define them? That no matter what age you are, their laws still apply? They are their own language, not confined to English, Spanish, or French. Oui, oui, Senor. Numbers are without feeling-although we all want to be #1, you can wrap your arms around something that number represents, but can't touch the number itself. I can have five motorcycles-but I cannot hold the number five, it represents something, helps define it, and helps analyze it. Maybe the song is correct-one is the loneliest number.

Have you ever tried sticking your size 9 feet into a size 8 shoe? How about six gallons into your four gallon tank? Would you consider paying an extra $100 on your light bill? How about accepting less on your pay check? You see, numbers mean something, and mathematics are ruled by laws and theorems, not ideas, feelings, and opinions.

And when added to us, who seem to live by opinions and theories-some based on emotions, the two can collide. I am confused sometimes at how some people who are so religious, and conservative in their thinking, are caught under the law, and fight against the spirit leading their life. I am amazed, and always hurt, when I see men quote scripture, but have no love behind it. Win the argument, lose the soul. I encountered a man recently, a pastor, he calls himself, who has been seeking prayer for a man he knows. This man is into drugs, and needs help. Yet this pastor has been bombing him with scripture, and cannot understand why he won't come to church with him. And the pastor doesn't get it. Why go to church to get beat up, after being beat up by him all week? To this pastor, at least in this situation, the scripture is a cold law, a prescription to be filled, a measurement to be exacted. He hasn't realized the intimacy of Christ here, the love this man is missing and is crying out for, and when I approached him, with words of encouragement-essentially, back off the scripture, and show some compassion, this man needs a friend, not a law course, I was told to mind my own business-not his exact words, but a polite interpretation of his attitude. Remember Mike's #1 rule-never argue with an idiot because you will never win.

Jesus is not like this. He asked people what could he do. How can He help? He offered them love, compassion, and a place of rest. He is patient even today with us, as He wants none of us to go to hell. And contrary to worldly belief-God doesn't send anyone to hell-it is your choice to go, simply reject Jesus as God, and you go. But it is even easier to realize the truth and be set free-and heaven awaits.

Is your walk numbers driven? I must memorize 2 verses and read 3 chapters each day? Are you bound by laws that you yourself cannot even keep? And do you find that the God who once was so personal and truly set you free, is now reduced to a set of thou shalts, and thou shalt nots? Seek comfort and guidance from the holy spirit. He is a person and is personable, not a set of rules, and wants to spend time with you. It is what made the apostle John, John the beloved. He is who urges you to seek Christ, and who hopes, believes, and endures all things-just for you. For He is love, not an emotion, much more than that. He is God-and you can meet Him right here, right now-without stepping into a church. He comes to you, much like He came to earth 2000 years ago-to see and save those that are lost.

Laws are needed with numbers, and without them there would be bedlam. But without love, your testimony and witness will also be bedlam also. Be the person that you can be, your true potential only realized in Jesus Christ. And realize that the only thing that Jesus and the law of mathematics have in common is eternity! Jesus Christ-doing what the law can't-loving! Break free from the law today-and enter into the world of living in the spirit. Repeat offenders welcomed back. I hope to see you there!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

the hands on your watch

Once a month, Theresa and some of her friends go to Maranatha for the Wednesday night service. They always meet first for dinner, so that leaves me to fend for myself. Hmmm, which burger joint do I get to grace with my presence tonight? But tonight would be different, I was in the mood for Chinese, so I went to Panda Express, arriving just before the dinner crowd. Now behind me in line was this young, blond girl. Stereotypical California girl, who after I paid for my food finally made her decision. "Can you step it up here honey, people are starving behind you!" Taking the fast out of fast food. When she got to the cashier, she was asked did she want a large soda? During a spell which took about two forkfuls of food in length, she decided yes. She walked by me on the way out, balancing her huge set of keys, her bag of food, and her empty cup. As I watched, she got across the parking lot and stopped, and looked into the cup-something was wrong-what was it? And she finally realized the cup was empty-she hadn't gotten her drink. So returning to the restaurant, she placed the bag of food down next to me, filled her drink and walked out.

And at about the same point, stopped, realizing something was wrong-again. She had forgotten her food. Soooo-she went back and got it, and finally on the third attempt made it top her car. And the story ends here at least for me, who knows when she made it home-or even if!

To which a man sitting next to me commented, "even a broken watch is right two times a day."

Now I have been known to be a creature of habit, but sometimes more creature than habit. Once a year we all panic when I can't find the keys to a bike. And after searching the house, and being reminded of how does it feel to be so stupid, look in the bike-which was the last place I saw them. And they are always there-not lost, just waiting for me to return. And I have gotten better, as the gaps between losing my sunglasses is increasing. Generally, they are found on my head-duh, which someone after 10 minutes of looking at me notices. Double duh! Which is an improvement. It seems for years whenever I would go to my grandparents, I would lose my glasses, and only find them after sitting on them. Which was always followed by "I told you not to put them on a chair-again!" Stupid hurts.

Josh and I had lunch yesterday, and were talking about missed opportunities to minister, and how we know when God presents them. How it takes a sensitive spirit, and a willingness to follow it. Theresa told me a story recently about a friend of hers who is involved in ministry. And when a chance to minister outside her organization came up, that would have been perfect for her, had to say no. They had their meeting that day, sorry, she would have to pass. Ministry-getting into the way of ministering. A missed blessing for all parties. Gotta have those meetings, though, so we can talk about ministering. Just in case we ever get the chance. Good thing Jesus forgives, and gives another chance. And tells us to get over it and go on.

After Peter denied Jesus three times in the garden, he felt miserable. But we find the next story in the gospel, is when John and he come across a man who cannot walk-and we all know the children's song-in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth-rise up and walk! Just like he was told, and he did! It took a failure for Peter to draw closer to God, and then to have more of a ministering heart.

Blown a chance? Get over it. God knows you would, and wants you to seek Him-and He wants to bless you in these encounters. And whether that stumbling block is a meeting, or a little girl, He wants you to get over it, and get on with life! We all know the story of Peter's denial, maybe we should concentrate on his comeback, if you will.

Don't fall for the excuse either, saying "well they'll outgrow it." Always blond, always leaving glasses on head, and age doesn't seem to matter. Just ask Jed Clampett, when his nephew Jethro came home with a new Mickey Mouse watch. Proud of the little mouse on it, "the hands move Uncle Jed, "he showed it to Granny, who berates him-"you dern fool, it's defective, the hands aren't even the same size! One is smaller than the other!"

Here's hoping your watch hands are a different size, your keys are in your pocket, glasses on your face, and your cup filled, and your dinner is warm by the time you get it home. But most important that you have Jesus in your heart. You never know when the next blessing is about to come your way. Be sensitive to the spirit. It's nice to be right more than twice a day.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

zero to hero and other villains

Just when you think you've got things figured out they go and change the rules. And just when you think you know someone, they do something to show you don't know them at all. Like the cute girl in high school, who you see ten years later, who has three kids and is as big as a house for them to live in. Or the poor kid who became rich. I have learned, or am still learning to deal with the unexpected, controlling my expression, or sometimes even feigning my surprise.

I went to high school with Gary Proto. He set national records for running the half mile, had a crew cut, and was destined for great things in college. Yet the last time I saw him, the night I left New Jersey, he was into drugs and drinking, quit running, and had grown shoulder length hair. We met at the liquor store, where a man drew a gun on us, so we went back to my house to the party. As he explained it to me, over many beers, his dad had died, who was the motivation in his life, and he had no one to turn to-so getting stoned was it. A turnaround I never thought I would see, and it still pains me today. He was a hero of sorts to me, one of the "sissy runners" as we used to call them, and we were into the same music. A talented, smart, articulate man-I wonder where he is today?

The summer before, I had taken my custom van on a cross country trip. Never having gone farther than Florida, this was a long trip, and a dream realized. It also was a trip where my life would change forever, I came to know Jesus Christ while with visiting friends in Santa Monica. While crossing Colorado, and learning about altitude and how it effects you-you mean the whole world isn't sea level like New Jersey, I had stopped at a rest stop when a long haired, hippie type came up to me. We talked and then got stoned in my van. His name was Jesse O'Leary, and he was a teacher at an Indian School, much like the hippie type, new age schools made popular after Billy Jack. We also talked motorcycles, as I had my R90S still in Jersey, and he wanted one-an R60. Simple gran falloons, Kurt Vonnegut would say, as we had drugs and BMW's in common. I left and never thought much of our chance meeting.

Until the next summer, when I was working at Motorsport in Albuquerque. And in comes Jesse, on a blue R60/5 like mine. He was teaching in Taos, at an Indian school, back when Taos had vigilante law, and Dennis Hopper was mayor-why and how this hippie survived I don't know. Or Hopper either! We embraced and were blown away by our meeting again, so we went to lunch, and he wanted to get high. I then shared with him how my life had changed, and how Jesus Christ had changed it. For almost an hour he asked questions, and I answered them-but he left me not ever coming to the point of accepting Jesus. But if ever a person had a chance to see a changed life, Jesse saw it in me.

John the Beloved, he was/is known as. Not only did he write five New Testament books, but he was on Patmos when Jesus unfolded the events to come in the Book of Revelation, and had him write them down. And because he did, it is the only book that says when it is read it comes with a blessing to those reading it. But John the Beloved is not what his fellow disciples would have known him as. Mention him to them early on, and his fellow apostles would have thought different, for even after becoming an apostle, it took God to change his heart, for he and his brother James were known as Sons of Thunder. Simply, he wanted to blow up anyone who opposed him. From government to individuals, he thought that disposing of his enemies was the best solution. But God showed him the better way, and this man today is known as the Apostle of Love. A changed heart, which changed his world view, which changed his world, and his life. And only Jesus can do that-for without a changed heart, there will no change of actions. Never mind the argument that he mellowed with age, this man had gone from mad bomber to isolation on Patmos, after being unsuccessfully boiled in oil for preaching the gospel. Politicians promise change-only Jesus Christ can change a man's heart.

A campaign slogan years ago asked "are you better off than four years ago?" My question to you-are you going to heaven? Has Jesus changed your life? If not, let today be that day. It could be in a rest stop, at the track, or a rally, or even reading these words. But don't miss the chance to know Jesus. He died for the chance to meet you. Listen to His story, ask questions, and let Him love on you. Just might change your life-I hope He does. Until then, I'll be praying for you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

if only I had listened...

Face up to it-the only time most of you care at all about your tires is when one goes flat on you. True, isn't it? Up until that moment that your round donut loses its air, you just take them for granted that they will hold air and last forever. And you would be wrong. I used to be amazed at the condition of tires I saw when a service advisor. Tires 11-15 pounds underinflated, and the owner wondering why the steering feels weird. Or his fuel mileage was down. I have seen cord showing where there should be tread, and been told by the mother driving the mini van that "they've looked like that for weeks." And then being told how she bought the mini van to keep her kids safe. And when I offered to replace them, would get the I'll do it elsewhere where it's cheaper-and finding nothing more expensive than when stupidity leaves you on the side of the road. Cheap can equal stupid-results always the same. Not their fault.

And I would see this very often in the "mommy cars." The one that some magazine who feels about cars like the government feels about you, telling you what is safe and what isn't. Hint-safest car you'll ever drive is one that isn't in an accident. But despite warnings, these people persevere, many times at the expense of others. So here is a list of cars to avoid while riding. No apologies if you are listed.

Watch out for Volvo owners-some 35 years ago they advertised themselves as the safest car, and the liberals believed it. Shedding all responsibility for driving skills, they wield these cars like the Ginsu chef does his knives, never looking in their rear view mirrors to see the trouble they've caused as they drive their safe car, unsafely. The past can't influence the future, can it?

Any mini van, and the worst are ones driven by women under the influence of children. Wonder why your kids are squirrelly? They inherited it, from all the personal time you spent with them. Maybe hang up the cell phone, turn off the DVD player, turn of the radio, and talk to your kids. All these communication devices are a poor substitute for communication-aka conversation. Hang up and drive-now that's a safety feature anyone can use. Quick-can you name all your kids before you can tell me what song is on the radio?

I can go on and on-but I will close with the testosterone laden group of men who put the ultra low profile tires on their cars. Rim protectors, we referred to them as, and besides ruining the quality of the ride, and wearing out faster-do little to enhance handling-sorry tests proved it. In fact years ago, using a new Corvette, Car and Driver found that the handling hardly diminished when using the donut spare! You probably won't see that in advertising!

You see, I have a theory, untested, unscientific, but somewhat reliable. You can tell what a person's life is like by the condition of their car. And I'm usually spot on. Scary, huh. But the sad side is, many of us live with more consideration of our car, than of God. How many of you are living on borrowed time? You have been warned about your condition, but like a bad tire haven't gone flat yet? Or crashed?
The signs are there, but you ignore them. And when you do crash, take someone with you-the Fosdick Syndrome. And you walk away-they take all the abuse. Maybe today that self evaluation time with God can spare you from this. It may not be painless, but beats the alternative-and yes, you may have to change your ways. And be better for it!

Have you noticed lately how you just aren't as joyful as you used to be? Has the world, and all it has to offer, gotten between you and God? Like the parent in the mini van, have you let the things of the world interfere, and take the place of one on one with God, thinking that because your friends do it is OK? Not hearing from God? Maybe you are just not listening. Ask your kids-you may be surprised, and may not like the answer. Ask God about your relationship with Him-aren't you glad He is patient, unlike you in traffic?

Do you live like you own a Volvo? Just because you are under the illusion you are OK, do you not see the need for God in your life? When sin is mentioned, do you reply "well, I've never killed anyone." Forgetting there are nine other commandments, and neglecting that Jesus told you that if you regard them in your heart, you have already committed them?

Or is your life primarily a "me first" existence. Which really means the heck with all you others? It's all about me, then you, if I have time. Is this how your relationship with God is perceived? Losing control just to be trendy, and falling prey to the next trend that comes along, not realizing the friend at the custom shop is only your friend because of your spending habits. Aren't you glad Jesus never goes out of style?

The answer to all is repent. Turn from the wrong way, to God's way. God likes nice things, fast cars, and the latest fads. But He loves you, and sees what the lust of the flesh, and eyes can do to you . He doesn't want anything to come between you and Him. The question is do you? Maybe what started small has taken you over, seek God. Watch as Jesus fills the void, and relieves the pressure. Let him add life to your style. He may point out the bad tires, your lack of driving skills, or mention all the distractions in your life. But He will also show you how to fix them, in a loving way. But you must let Him.

I used to tell people "the parts are here, the techs are here, and your car is here. It is easier to fix it now, than later on the side of the road." Your decision, like the Fram commercial said, "pay me now, or pay me later." If you don't have time for God now, how do expect to find time for Him later?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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56+32=1978

It all started 35 years ago when my dentist had a partner who loved Packards. Tom had found one he had to have, a 1937 Dual Cowl Phaeton-sounds romantic, huh-and took a train ride from Albuquerque to Minnesota to get it. Dressed in his overalls, and same shirt for four days, he didn't wish to leave the $50,000 he had in his grocery bag unattended-paper, not plastic, and so was unwashed and unshaved for the entire trip. And when the taxi dropped him off at the owner's house, a rich neighborhood, they wouldn't answer the door. He tried to explain he was the dentist who was to buy the Packard, but they obviously felt no one dressed like him would own a Packard-definitely not from the denim crowd. Only when this man with four days of beard and bib overalls emptied the bag full of cash on the door step did they let him in. Money still talks, and lasting impressions can be more valuable than first ones. So the fuse was lit and a dream of mine was to do the same thing-except to do it on a motorcycle. And for 35 years I waited.

Until last week I started looking, and found four bikes that met my criteria. Must be original, something I couldn't have when new, and within 1000 miles. The 1971 CB750 in Albuquerque was close, nice guy, great mechanic, but missing the 4 into 4 pipes. File as a backup. A 1982 GS1100, close also, pipes again. Then a 1978 GS750E, with only 5000 miles-perfect! And after mentioning to the owner outside Sacramento that bikes that sit can leak, etc, he had it checked out, and the day before I was to leave, called. "Can't sell it to you Mike, there is leak and an engine noise. I could never let you ride it 500 miles like you said." Great guy, Dan, and like the owners of the other three, honorable in all their descriptions, and intentions. So it came down to my original choice, a 1978 GS1000E, in Everett, north of Seattle. After negotiating with the dealer, a consignment bike, we made the deal. It is restored, original, low miles, and everything they said it was, and more. But it broke some of my original rules. One-I had to fly, and I hadn't since 1996. I am not afraid to fly, just that it's boring, and degrading. Two-it was outside my 1000 mile radius, but 1400 miles is no big deal. But fell within my budget. So much for the restrictions of rules.

So leaving early on Friday, I flew to Seattle, where Thad, the sales manager got me at the airport. And sure enough, the wait was worth it. In a world of new Hondas and Suzukis, the GS was a queen, everyone commented on her. And true to their word, the bike got me home safe. Three small problems-speedo cable broke after 108 miles, so I rode 1300 miles without a speedo. An o ring leaks at the tach cable-they all did. And one baffle came loose within the left muffler. But the bike cosmetically is great, I will remove the baffle, and for $15 bucks replace the cable and o ring. OH, and I did the ride in 2 1/2 days instead of four. The bike ran so strong, cruising at 80mph no big deal, including one day of 600 miles, an even bigger no big deal! And comfortably, too. Not to mention all the time I got to spend with God-alone!

You see somewhere between the falsehood of the name it and claim it philosophy, and the "I have to live austere so God will bless me group," lies the truth. Face it-both those philosophies are all about you-not God! God loves to bless his children. It makes Him happy. It is called grace, and you cannot behave more, pray or read your Bible more and get it, or live by the rules and get it. It is a gift, and the Bible reminds us that He loves to give good gifts. And this weekend he did. Did I mention it didn't rain, and was between 75-85 when the sun came up? You see he tells us to seek Him first, then the other things get added. Don't let the world, or anything come between you and God. Then-these things shall follow them that believe. And these things are called blessings. Happiness! And they only come from God. You see I have tried to buy things to make me happy-it don't work! Only Jesus can set you free, and bless you-SO LET HIM! Break all the rules-except to love, and trust God. Watch the blessings flow in ways you never imagined. And let those blessings get you, or keep you closer to God than you have ever been.

It took this 56 year old on a 32 year old bike back to 1978 to realize a dream. But reminded me that God is a God of right now. God will give you the desire of your heart-and when it is Him, watch the blessings flow! And let the ride begin!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

ps-the picture with the sign is in front of Applegate Fellowship-Jon Courson's church in Oregon

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ps-why things don't work

We took Theresa's Mustang into the dealer the other day for some repairs. And they referred to it as the old Mustang. Which hurt my pride at first, because we don't think of it as old. Yes, it's a 2001, and we have had it for ten years, and intend to keep it, but I think of an old Mustang like one from the sixties. But we got over it, and now that is how we refer to it, affectionately, of course. The old Mustang, and from some things I saw, at least as good a car as the new ones.

After ten years, everything still works, amazingly so. And looking at all the new electronic gimmicks, and of course the prices of new cars, I'm glad she's a keeper. While waiting my turn, I was reading the advertisements on the wall, and one caught my eye. It was telling about a new style wiper blade, one that when it was worn out, turns color. Now I can imagine the excitement in the inventor's voice, telling his wife, "look dear, we'll be millionaires. When the blade is worn, it turns color, telling you to replace it." But his wife, ever the realist, and related to the Shaw Wow guy, just shakes her head, "oh no, not again."

And I watched as people looking at this sign, actually acknowledged this might be a great idea. And it scared me. How blind or stupid, do you have to be to not be able to see out of the windshield because of bad blades? And if you can't see through the unwiped windshield, how can you see the color change, that had to be magnified on the sign to see it, yeah, right?

After watching a bio on Henry Ford and the Model T, I think he may have been on to something, simple transportation. Unlike today, where you have sound systems, not radios, and I remember old Mercedes Benz owners being confused by the 39 buttons on the dash, when all she wanted to do was turn up the volume for talk radio. And I think of all the features that enhance your ownership, their words, not mine, and you have to wonder-whassup? From wipers that turn them self on when it rains-the sensor has nothing to do with moisture, to self aligning headlights every time you turn them on, or turn themselves on, to self adjusting mirrors when you back up, and even a message telling you when the oil is dirty, all this takes the driving out of the experience-just point and steer, wait for the next message to tell you what to do. And when they would ask me how does it work, I would often refer them to a teenager, and the reply was, "yes, my grandson explained it to me, I'll ask him about this." The same kid who can't find the curb to take the trash too, but can tell how multi-million dollars electronics work. Does anybody make a radio with on/off and volume, and knobs instead of buttons? We have met the enemy and it is us-we have successfully won the war on technology, except we are also the victims. No more skills, but a memory chip to remember for you-STUPID! And I wonder who would buy the worn out wiper sensor blades? And you have to ask? Wish I had thought of it first.

Old dogs, and new tricks, but are they really? There are statistics that tell us that the older you get, the less chance there is of being saved. Aren't you glad God doesn't make decisions based on polls? And I think of those who sat in pews for many years, listening to their preacher, but not paying attention. Not having a relationship with God, but via the pastor. And wondering what is going on, and why? I heard being a Christian was exciting, all I got is boring, repetitious, rote prayers and sermons. Is there something better, or is all I have to do show up for an hour, and endure, then go home and wait to do it over again?

Just like they have taken the driving experience out of driving, man has taken the relationship out of Jesus. We are fed gimmicks, skits, topical messages, boring visitors, songs played by rented musicians, and taught to us by men who have D.D. after their name. Doctrinally dead? Not at all what Jesus promised, or wants to deliver in your life. He tells about sin, you don't need a poll to know that. He wants to heal you, long before the symptoms get so bad you see the doctor. He wants to meet the need long before you go begging, and He wants it all to be personal, on a first name basis. No going to a priest or waiting until Sunday, talk to Him now, or anytime. Maybe He is the Model T of religion, or the Model T is the Jesus of cars-basic, no frills, personal, and dependable. Everything you need, with no frills. I like that. Someone I can relate to, and not just another gimmick to get my mind off the real thing-Him! Someone who knows what I need without a sensor going off to tell Him, and knowing how to repair the problem, not just replace the part. He fixes the cause, not the symptom.

If your take on church is one of boring, and the same old stuff, I encourage you to break out of the slump, and seek one that isn't-they are out there! And if you are in one where it is all about gimmicks and programs, I invite you to meet Jesus. Face to face-not through a windshield! Let the spirit guide you, and soon begin to enjoy all He has for you-abundance is what He promises. Flee from tradition, and try the spirit-you'll be glad you did. And you will find, that He is more like you than you think, for He had a strong distaste for religion and religious people, too. He even took it personal, dying for them while we were yet a sinner.

Take a ride with the old Jesus today, and find something new and exciting, that took place on an old, rugged cross. No buttons or sensors-just nine inch nails. Can you hear the spirit calling? See what I mean, it's a clear as seeing through your windshield!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

ps-A device which determines a condition of at least one wiper blade of a motor-vehicle windshield wiper. The device includes a rain sensor controlling the motor-vehicle windshield wiper and being utilized for determining the condition of the wiper blade. The device also includes an evaluation circuit receiving data from the rain sensor. The evaluation circuit evaluates wear and tear of a rubber wiper element of the wiper blade based on one of a slow and continuous change of the data and a quick and continuous change of the data provided by the rain sensor.

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you better watch out-I'm tellin you why...

A young mother in her thirties, struggles with her cart in the grocery store, telling her six year old son which items to get from the shelves, as she is 125 pounds overweight and cannot bend to get them.

A respected man is called in before his boss, and asked to explain the pornography found on his computer at work.

A couple from church, members for years and well known, are faced with their secret sin being exposed as she is rushed to the hospital with a bleeding ulcer from drinking.

As the unpaid bills mount, the collectors call, adding strain to an already overburdened family. Creating a rift between the parents, and threatening to break up the family.

A young woman comes crying uncontrollably from the Planned Parenthood office, after being told that she is pregnant, and the child is not her husbands, as she is not married, but the father is.

Look around, these scenarios are not unusual in today's society. And they all share a common theme-these occurrences did not happen overnight. They are the result of a bad decision made, and over time becoming a habit, and soon controlling and ruining a life. Taking the style right out of the life, and not only destroying the person afflicted, but their families, careers, and even their reputations. All because of a wrong choice made.

Picture the young mother, once attractive, but after her second child puts on weight, and then continues to overeat due to the depression-which only makes her more depressed, so she eats more. Soon she cannot satisfy her husband, and he begins to look elsewhere. The kids, embarrassed by their grossly overweight mom, soon lose respect for her, and start to get in trouble after school, rather than going home to their mother. And soon their grades suffer. All because of an eating disorder-gluttony, and how over the years it has taken control of their mother, and the family.

The tenured manager is called before his boss. During a computer upgrade, pornography is found on his computer, and is effecting his life-outside of work and at work. "It's just one little web site," he argued, "I'm not hooked," but the records show hours every day dedicated to this perversion. And when he is terminated over it, is faced with telling the truth to his wife, admitting his sin to the family, or as in too many cases, lying to cover one sin with another.

"Wine is not alcohol," they laughed and told their pastor. "And besides, we only drink it with dinner." And that is how the downhill spiral began, believing a lie. Touching something God has instructed them not to touch. And soon they drink a six pack, to unwind after a hard day at work, made harder because of the hangover each morning from the night before. And soon their social group has changed, and they begin to drink more, as their new friends love to party. "Beer thirty, let's drink," they chant, and the downhill continues. Until one night in a panic, one of them is bleeding from the mouth, and is rushed into surgery. Calling their pastor, he is there when the doctor tells the other spouse they must stop drinking, or it will kill them. And physically and emotionally they feel ruined.

She needed to keep up with the latest style to look good for her husband, but soon, the bills began to get more than they could pay. She did the bills, so she hid it for awhile, but when he began getting called at work about past due bills, the truth came out, and the marriage suffered, as did the kids, and the home. In a futile attempt to pay them off-more borrowing, they finally separated over money-or lack of it. But at least she looked good in divorce court, which was right after bankruptcy. Moral bankruptcy had already happened long ago.

And as the young girl cries out to her lover, he tells her he wants nothing to do with her. He never loved her, it was just for sex, and he is going back to his wife. "Deal with it," and an uncontrollable urge for love has left her broken, pregnant, and with no one to turn to-except the abortionist. Do away with it, don't let this mistake ruin your life. But she goes into the abortionist's office-not realizing the demoralizing effect it is going to have on her.

And the sad thing is none of the above had to happen. They were all the victim of a bad choice, substantiated in the mind, and then OKed by their friends. A slow decline into the abyss of sin, so slow and subtle the changes are not noticed until it is too late. Disasters that happen over time, from an accumulation of sin. And it doesn't have to be this way. Jesus told us to repent-turn from your actions and turn to Him. He will show a way out of each one, but you must seek Him, and then obey. And sadly there is a price to pay, and the longer it goes on, the higher the bill due will be.

Seek Him now, if you are even on the edge of these catastrophes. Call out to Him, and let Him help, before your sin finds you out, and others do too. For it is your bad decision, sin, that finds you out, and not God. So confide in Him, give Him your burdens for He careth for you. And find that He has instilled on earth a family called the church that is there to help you through, and help you so you don't fall again. It is called love-and is only found in Jesus Christ. No programs, self help, or religion will help. It's all about Jesus.

Look around-you have more to lose than your possessions. Trust Him now before they are the last to go. One decision got you where you are, another can get you where you need to be. It's up to you. Let your testimony start today-with Jesus. Their is no single isolated sin, each one touches many others you care for. And we never know who we touch-until it is too late.

Change the course you are on today-do it for your family, do it for your career, do it for yourself. But do it-in Jesus' name.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

badge 714

The following is a fictional interview, from a fictional character, Sgt. Joe Friday, from Dragnet. Only the names have been changed, to protect the innocent. It takes place outside Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, after a Saturday evening service. I was introduced to Joe by one of the ushers, who pointed out an old man walking across the foyer, and he graciously spoke with me for about 30 minutes. I hope it encourages you as it did me.

MIKE MOHN-Sgt., so glad to meet you. I didn't realize you went here.

JOE FRIDAY-Or that I was still alive, and a Christian?

MM-You got me there, can you share your testimony with me, I'm sure many others would like to hear it.

JF-Not much to tell, after taking a bullet during a 211 in progress, in 1974, I was down and depressed for months. Spent seven months in a nursing home recovering, and became depressed. Particularly when the shooter got off with only probation, I realized that there was no sense of justice, and that it had been heading that way for years. I had become bitter, and my world which had always been black and white-no pun intended, was changing. I found the black invading the white, and many gray areas entered into my life. I was on teaching assignment, part time during rehab at the academy, when I overheard a group of recruits saying how I was just a bitter old man, whom the system had done in, and they would never be like me. That hurt, as I was a good cop, a fair cop, and the force was my life.

MM-whoa, that had to hurt.

JF-it did, but there was one recruit, Nelson, who stood out, not only by his abilities, but by his presence. This was in the early 70's, and he talked about the difference Jesus Christ made in his life. And he talked about it openly. And others seemed to be either attracted to him, or made fun of him, but he always reacted the same. One day after a class on forensics, he stayed after to talk. He confronted me, told me how he admired my police work, but that I needed Jesus, and shared the gospel with me, and then invited me to church. I told him I would think about it, I was a Christian as I had attended Sunday school as a kid, and joined a mainline denomination, although it had been years since I had gone to church, and then only on Christmas and Easter. He jokingly called me a CEO-Christmas and Easter only. I even knew some of the police chaplains. I kept the 10 commandments, and had never killed anyone, except in the line of duty. I would got to heaven, I was a good person.

MM-so what did you do? when did you go?

JF-not for a while, but I finally figured I would. A group of cadets was attending, and insisted on me going with them. The cadets had become more of my peer group as so many of my contemporaries had retired. And boy, I wasn't ready for what happened when we arrived.

MM-go on...

JF-well, the music was loud, and no hymns, and I thought what had I gotten into, but that I could hold out for another hour. But then the pastor, Chuck got up and started talking about love, and how we were all sinners, and needed a savior. And as I looked around, I found myself at a strange disadvantage-these people all were saved, as Pastor Chuck called it, and I wasn't. I was the criminal amidst the innocent, and it bothered me. After having been taught from the Bible, and it seemed everyone had one and was reading it, even taking notes, I found myself totally embraced by love. The next thing I know they asked to pray for those to accept Jesus, and I did. And as I sat there for what seemed like a few seconds, the cadets were patient as it was about a half hour, the Holy Spirit touched my heart, and changed it. God showed me that I hated criminals, when I should only hate the crime. That God loved the sinner, and not the sin. And I needed to be forgiven, and then forgive. And that the bitterness of being shot, and dealing with rules and laws for all my career had made me that way. I needed Jesus!

MM-so what happened?

JF-that night, I gave my heart to Jesus Christ, and 56 years of sin left me. I was born again, and since that night, Jesus has been changing my heart. I retired on disability and moved here, so I could attend, and have been involved here in various ministries ever since.

MM-and the cadets? Where are they now?

JF-I still hear from them, as they are my family. Where before my family wore police blues, now they wear different colors, and all express the love of Jesus. And since that night I have never felt alone again-ever.

MM-well, thanks, my brother. It was nice to hear from you, and for you to take the time. Do you have a ride? Can I walk you to your car?

JF-that would be nice. It's the old Ford sedan over there.

MM-not the one from the series?

JF- a joke, and a gift sorta, from when the series ended. Complete with handicap plates, and PBA sticker.

As I helped him into his car, after we hugged, I watched him drive away. And both a tear and smile crossed my face. As he stopped to merge into traffic, there was an old "One way with Jesus" sticker on his bumper. And as I looked back, the lot was empty, and when I looked into the street, it too was empty. Was this all a dream? I vowed to return next Saturday night, to see him again.

But a funny thing happened, when I returned. He wasn't there, and when I asked about him, no one knew what I was talking about. Was I crazy? Did I make the whole thing up? I left disillusioned, and wondering. Had the previous week been a dream? Had I seen an angel?

Can't tell you, but one thing I can tell you, is the words he left me with, that have rung true for 2000 years and still do today. Jesus Christ is Lord and Savior, and died for your sins. No opinions-just the truth. And like Joe told me with a smile while walking to his car-"just the facts, please." And the fact, proven by all the evidence provided proves that Jesus is who He says He is.

Don't let the devil throw a dragnet over you. Don't hang around for the outcome... be in heaven with Joe and the other saints. Now that's a Good Friday message!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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change that makes a difference

For about thirty years, the time the remote made its appearance into everyday life, with cable and the many channels available, we now have too many choices, and a loaded Uzi for a remote. So we channel surf, driving our co-watchers crazy. So when Theresa hid the remote the other night, and I was faced with walking across the room to change channels, I opted to listen to the radio instead.

"Picture yourself on a train in...New York, New York, if I can...talk to the animals, walk with...Sherry, Sherry baby...you can drive my car...in San Francisco...open up that Golden...let's go surfin' now, everybody's...Jive talkin'...I just called to say...she'll have fun, fun, fun til her daddy...heard it through the grapevine...I can tell by the way you use your walk, you're a woman's...daydream believer...in magic, in a young girl's...409, my 409, well I saved my...hair, long beautiful...route 66-now it runs through...Winslow, Arizona, such a fine sight to ...the chapel, where we're, gonna...take this job and...here's to you Mrs. Robinson...in the year 2525, if man is still...unforgettable, that's what...does it take, to win your love...the one you're...still the one who can...let's hang on, to...Mustang Sally, better slow your...last train to Clarksville, and I'll...never say goodbye...in the sunshine of your...night together, now I need you more than...you really got me, you really got...Johnny Angel, how I love...you just keep me hangin' on...when everyone knows it's Windy...whether or not we're together...right now, over me..."

If this is how you are reading the Bible, maybe it explains why your walk is like it is. Lacking harmony, incomplete. Lots of verses, but no rhythm. Try inductive study, reading the Bible through, verse by verse, just like God laid it out. Reading from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21, verse by verse. Would you read another book by skipping around, so why chapter hop trough the Bible? Did you know the Jews even gave importance to the space between the words? Maybe the words mean something, too.

So put down the theme based reading, and spend some time with Jesus. Read the whole book. The whole truth and nothing but the truth. Just the facts, ma'am.

Just an old fashioned love song, one that they wrote for you and me!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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Jesus-so easy a sinner can do it!

Since you were so kind as to ask how I acquired my FJ1100, let me tell you. Living in Farmington, and riding a motorcycle anywhere in the mid 80's could be expensive. The initial cost off the bikes was low-read discounted, because after Yamaha had vowed to beat Honda in sales, and Honda flooded the market with new bikes, they were still available for a few years at a substantial discount. Now before you get too excited, remember we still had to get them insured. And the companies were against us. In fact, two such notable companies, even took steps to keep us off of them. State Farm, the good neighbor? company, would deny coverage for your home or auto if you owned one of four bikes-Ninja bikes they referred to them as, and they were the Yamaha FJ1100, Kawasaki Ninja 1000, Honda VFR 1000, and the Suzuki GS1100. Ride one, and your good neighbor company would blacklist you. Until the government caught up with them, and fined them substantially, and the laws were rewritten-better, but still not good. The other company was GEICO. Who I still don't trust today. GEICO, for those of you who don't know, stands for Government Employees Insurance Company-but has no connection with any government, or employees of it. But it must have sounded good when founded in 1936, so the name stuck. And GEICO tried to stick it to us. They would sell us insurance, but at an absurdly usurious rate, telling us how lucky we were to get it. And cancelling current policy holders if they didn't come up with the ludicrous amounts. We were bad risks. And were so clandestine in their operations, that they too were fined, but also almost put out of business. So needless to say, if you were trying to purchase one of the above four bikes, you faced an uphill battle.

In many cases, the insurance payment would exceed your monthly payment. And discouraged all but the most hard core from buying these four bikes. And such was the problem with the FJ1100. I bought it new in July, 1986, as a 1985 leftover, from the dealer in Farmington. It had been sold three times, but never purchased, as the purchasers could not get it insured, so the deal was cancelled. So the day I rode in with Brett, just to look, and they found I had steady employment-remember this was the oilfields in the 80's, had a family-bonus points in rating, had no tickets-yet, and was above age 30-barely, I could get insurance. And could just about name my price for the bike. For a bike that listed for $4950, they gave me what I paid for my 1983 Nighthawk 650, and discounted the bike to what they said was their cost-essentially getting a new bike for half price! Which left plenty of money for insurance! And that is how I got my FJ! And my insurance was even reasonable-agent's comment, as even though the bike was new, it was a year old, and the insurance company rated it as used.

A story about insurance companies, to be remembered when they try to sell you their policies. That cute little gecko, or caveman, is a company who once tried to keep you from riding-at all costs, to you, not to them. And so much for being a good neighbor, as my neighbors ride, and I am a good neighbor. Anything for a buck, or better yet a profit-as always, it's all about the money. But the Bible tells different.

There is no discount salvation. And it doesn't cost a cent. It is a gift, so you can't or don't have to pay for it. Besides, it cost Jesus His life, are you willing to pay that price? In Acts we see Peter and John performing miracles in the name of the Lord-laying on of hands, and people receiving the Holy Spirit. When a sorcerer named Simon saw this, he was curious, and wanted what he saw. He was known as the great power, and charged for the sorcery he practiced. So it was natural for him, when he saw Peter and John, he asked "how much to have this ability?" And was told "may your money perish with you, you cannot buy the gift of God with money!" Maybe these TV type evangelists should read this. But Simon's heart was touched, and when told he was full of bitterness, and captive to sin, asked of the two, "pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me." Again evangelists-take note!

But we all need to hear this. For salvation is a gift, Ephesians 2. And cannot be purchased, or worked for. So when you are told that your works will save you, they lie! And about God! It is a heart condition that changes you, not an action condition. And just like many were exempted from riding the bike of their choice because of usurious insurance practices, how many miss heaven, or don't enjoy the benefits because like Simon the sorcerer are stuck in a bad church, lousy doctrine, or under the burden of bitterness and sin? Or the love of money? God made the gospel easy, so bikers and others not so richly gifted as us would get it. John 3:16-God gave His only son. Repent-acknowledge your sin, and turn from it. And follow Jesus. Not actuarial charts, or age discriminations. You won't be told you ride to fast, or you have too much bike. Where you live doesn't matter, because it is where you are going that really matters. Seek God today! Do not be lead astray by a serpent, or a gecko. Be a truly good neighbor, and let Christ into your household, and watch as you truly become a good neighbor. And Jesus even tells us that we are His friends if we keep His commandments. Not laws, but we are told to love our neighbor as ourselves, and to love God with all our heart.

And while riding, spend some time with God. He is the original good hands person-and He has the whole world in them. Today place your life there also, and enjoy the ride. On the ride of your choice. Amen.

And that is how I got my FJ. Simple-just like the gospel.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com