It is called prospecting, and to anyone whoever wanted to join a motorcycle club, they know exactly what it means. A probation of sorts, to prove to the club that you are worthy to wear the colors they represent. To be accepted by the members, for membership, sometimes only 75%, but usually 100%. And for that probationary period, you will be little better than a slave, and indebted to the one who nominated you for membership. And depending on the club, those commands can be disgusting and even lecherous. And even illegal, in an attempt to break you, and find how you respond. Will you defend the club? Will you give allegiance to it, even over your family if needed? In 1%er clubs will you do time or even murder for the club? And for that period of from six months to a year, they own you. And you ask yourself, is this really what I want? And when the answer is yes, you endure the humiliation, earning the full patch colors, and are no longer a prospect. You are a full member, with all the rights and respect of the older members. You are in-you made it!
Not all clubs are clubs. Some are MM instead of MC, motorcycle ministries instead of motorcycle clubs. And their rules and requirements to wear their colors may be more relaxed, but the colors still mean the same. It has been said that if it is not in your heart, don't wear it on you back. And among the tougher clubs, it can mean danger, and even your life. It is a commitment made, and honored, and respected. A relationship based on a long term involvement, not just a season to check it out. And some clubs policy toward leaving it are two ways-death or dishonor. Thus insuring a tightly knit brotherhood among its members, and also honoring club business. To put it bluntly, seen on a red and white shirt-"Snitches are a dying breed." Gossips take note-you may be one sentence away from becoming a snitch.
Some social, non-motorcycle clubs, have less strict rules of membership. And as people come and go, so does the flow of the chapter. Leadership comes and goes, and I have seen clubs like the Jaycees, or Rotary, or Knights of Columbus rise and fall based on the quality of its membership. How much commitment will they make? Do they understand the vision of the organization? Some like the Masons even have levels to attain, and have been compared to cults, because of some of their beliefs. Whatever the club, be sure to check them out first, believe they are checking you out!
God's rules for membership-which He refers to as having your name written in the Book of Life are simple. Repent, realize you are a sinner, confess Jesus with your mouth and believe with your heart and you are saved. No prospecting, no club rules, or initiations. Although Baptism is encouraged, it is not necessary for salvation. Jesus paid your dues, and you are a full member of God's family. He makes the gospel so easy, that even people like me can accept it. But when we come to religion, and denominations, man makes it difficult. Religion which means binding, like being tied up or tied down, and denominations, adding your insight or touch to what Jesus has already done, and what God has already said, making them just a little more unique, or at least better in their own eyes. "Won't you join our denomination, you will be better off," they say. Looking to gain numbers, even robbing from other churches, when they should be reaching out to the lost and dying world. If your church is more about numbers than Jesus, maybe you should be prospecting for another. If you are not being fed, look for a place that will feed you-spiritually. Check them out, maybe put them on probation. But never put God on probation. He has already proven Himself, all the way to the cross, and then His resurrection. Competition should be for saved souls, never to satisfy a church role requirement.
Do not buy into the lie we are all God's children. Read John 1:12, to all who received Jesus were given the right to be called the sons of God-not by man's rules but by knowing God-personally in Jesus. Those born of God-born again, of spirit and body.
Groucho Marx once said "I would never join a club that would allow me to be a member." God's membership is open at all times, in fact He tells us today is the day of salvation. If you aren't saved, maybe yours. Ask Him into your heart today. And when He comes into your heart, just don't wear Him on your back-you'll want to wear Him on every part of your body! And you will be part of a group of believers, a church, whose founder gave His life for the club-for while we were yet sinners, Jesus died, for us-at just the right time. The right time is now-will you join us? We'd love to have you. No lines, or waiting period. Prospects welcome.
love with compassion,
Mike
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