scars and stripes forever

Every morning before I shower I have gotten in the habit of looking at my scar in the mirror. I don't need my glasses for this one, as it is 12" long, and being keloid looks like Dr. Frankenstein himself sewed me up. And at first it was tough to look, being as it was a life or death surgery performed on me. But as I watch in the mirror, I am filled with joy of the reminder that God has chosen to bless me with. You see He performed a miracle in me this summer, and when people see me it is hard for them to comprehend what I went through. I hardly can comprehend, so don't try-just give God ALL the glory. But to prove, and remind, and also serve as a testimony, He has given me this scar. And I consider it a badge of honor, a personal remembrance of how He never left me, forsook me, and how He healed me. One description of me was "you were the sickest person we ever saw who wasn't dead." And from being life flighted, to the surgery, to the amazing recovery, when Dr. Walinsky called me yesterday, and reminded me I was a miracle, it was special. He performed the surgery, telling PJ it was the hardest one he ever performed. I had four unique complications, any one of them could have been deadly, together they place me as unique in medical history, no one else recorded has ever had them. And I am here to testify of God's greatness-and you wonder why I love my scar?

On my last visit to my San Diego cardiologist, he remembered me as "the disaster." He told me I was lucky I wasn't dead. Yet luck played no part in any of this, and Dr. W when told of his statement, was emphatic I am a miracle! Living proof of the healing power of Jesus Christ! It is hard for even the hard core atheist to doubt my story, so personal are our testimonies.

So this year I am alive for Christmas, and having a great Christmas season. I came close to death, but the peace that surpasses all understanding wants me here. Grace, He calls it. Not so much for me, because death meant heaven, all the hospital staff knew I wasn't afraid to die. Had the DNR and all to prove it. Which Dr. W tore up, telling me "after all the work I put into you, I'm not ever giving up on you!" God also had the right surgeon in mind, too. But the grace God has shown me is for my family-this Christmas my wife is not a widow-I'm alive! My sons have their father with them-I'm alive! And the testimony I had told Theresa I would only share once, I have been able to tell over and over, and encouraged people to seek God!

I even got to visit with a man close to death, his heart was wasted and on dialysis. After visiting and praying with him I got an e-mail that his signs became normal-not because of my prayer, but because of Jesus Christ, who isn't done with me yet, and wanted to bless me even more-and the families and people associated with this man. So I wear my scar with great affection, a reminder that God is a God of mercy and love. And now I better get it why Jesus will wear His scars in heaven. Not so we can recognize Him, but always to remember what He did, so we can be there in heaven with Him. His stripes will remind us of what He took in our place. And suddenly the ugliness of what He endured become beauty marks-what an expression of love. Greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another-He's alive and so am I!

So Merry Christmas-it is for my family. May it be for yours. This will be the last story I send this year, number 203. I will be taking some time to spend with my family, my first ministry, and to relax and rest. And put miles on the 2013 Street Triple I have to ride. Only God knows what lies ahead, and I want to be ready. And if you note the date, sorry Mayans, our God is in complete control. And He has a first name-Jesus. All yours scars were in vain, His brought life, abundantly. And today I have my own personal scar to remind me, and encourage others. Truly ALL things work out for those who love the Lord, and are called to Him. My prayer is that you hear the call....and someday see His scars and stripes...forever.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot

the firsts of Noels

Christmastime in New Mexico is a wonderful and festive time of year. The smell of green Chile dishes arise from many kitchens, and luminarias-paper bags with lit candles and sand line the streets and driveways of many neighborhoods-greeting the new born savior. And in 1975, my first Christmas knowing Jesus, I was a new New Mexico resident for all of three weeks. With big plans for Christmas, going to California and spending it with friends from high school and my room mate John. It was also to be my first Christmas away from family-a lot of firsts for a 21 year old. But a few days before Christmas the rules changed. Mr. Hansch, Eddie's dad and who we were going to stay with in Costa Mesa died unexpectedly. Brennan was ok in Santa Monica, and John was able to get a flight to Memphis at the last minute and go back to be with his family. And I was left in Albuquerque all alone as I knew no one yet. A time that appeared sad but ended up being joyous. For my new friend and family member Jesus spent it with me-just us alone. A special time I will never forget, nor try to put into words, it was that special. A lot of firsts all at once, and I would do it all again.

My second New Mexico Christmas was two years later, with more firsts. It was the first Christmas with my new best friend and wife to be Theresa. Again without family, a first for her, but we would start a new tradition, us together which now is celebrating the birth of Jesus for the 35th year! Two Christmases both with special gifts from a loving savior, truly it is the most wonderful time of the year.

After a brief hiatus to Colorado, we were back in New Mexico six years later, and now with a family of our own. I believe that kids truly bring out a special part of the holidays, and this year my two sons did. Christopher was 5 this year, and was known as the dinosaur kid. In kindergarten he knew them all, and aided by shirts made by my mother, wore one everyday. And that year we found a 6' tall inflatable Godzilla, his hero, and on Christmas Eve took almost an hour to blow it up-by mouth. Never thinking as we sat in our bedroom that it wouldn't fit out the door, or down the hall. So...while most of you were hanging the stocking by the fire with care, we had to deflate most of it, drag it down the hall, and then blow it up again. But all was worth it as he loved it and again Christmas was very special, with another new friend spending it with us-Godzilla. It seems our family embraces all of Christmas from God to Godzilla, two kings, one of the monsters and one the King of Kings!

The Christmases we celebrate today were strongly influenced by the story "Twas the night before Christmas" written about 100 years ago. Before then it didn't have quite the structure it has today. Add a dose of Hollywood interpretation via some classic films. and an ad campaign by Coca Cola in the thirties giving Santa a face, a suit of red, and a personality, and we arrive at today, aided or hindered by pre-Christmas sales, ads proclaiming us unloving if we don't over indulge our spending, and cities afraid of Jesus, passing laws to prohibit singing of carols and nativity scenes, not even mentioning the name God. Strange how they are afraid to say God, but in the same public setting will use His name in vain. That isn't illegal. I pray they soon come to know Him, and find the true meaning and message of Christmas.

Many families have Christmas traditions, and new families are just starting their own. Keep Christ in your Christmas, for without Him it is just a mess, like most other days of the year without Him. Let it be personal, give gifts in love, it isn't giving if you feel you need to, and gather when you can with friends and family. But most important, spend time with that special one, Jesus. After all it is His birthday, and what kind of party would it be without the birthday boy? So give gifts to others in His love, as He has given to us. Remember those in jail, or in hospitals, or homeless. Take time to share His love with all you see....and if in New Mexico, have some green Chile chicken enchiladas on
Theresa and I.

For "although it's been said, many times, and many ways...Merry Christmas to you!" And Happy Birthday Jesus...." What firsts will you celebrate this year? Start a new tradition with Jesus today, the best friend, best gift you will ever receive. Merry Christmas to all who read this and to all those you hold most dear!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

and may all your Christmases be white...

I have had the pleasure of celebrating Christmas in five different states. New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Colorado, and California have each given me a different perspective to the holiday where we celebrate birth of Jesus. Each with its precious memories and each one letting us look back with thanks and look ahead with fondness of next year. For the first 20 years of my life, most were spent in New Jersey, with an occasional one spent in Pennsylvania with my grandparents. Christmas was always a happy and special time at our house, lots of decorations, and on Christmas Eve presents to open, from the family. Followed by piling into the car and driving around and looking at the Christmas lights and the decorations. It was always cold, and it is hard to remember a time when it hadn't snowed, giving us a truly white Christmas. It was so much fun to watch it snow on that Eve, watching as the snow piled up, and feeling safe and secure inside, with only the walls and windows keeping the 60 degree temperature difference from invading the warmth we felt. And then on Christmas Day more presents, and lots of food. Happy times I look back on, and sometimes wish I could go back to. Times as a kid when your only worry was if Santa had peaked, or someone had ratted you out, you had tried, but sometimes it was hard to nicer than naughtier. And then up to Pennsylvania, where more presents awaited, from my Nana and Pappy, and it seemed every toy from the Sears Christmas catalog was ours for the keeping-with a whole week off to enjoy them before having to go back to school. But it was the white of the holiday that made it special, and the decorating, the smell of the tree, and cookies. I will always remember my Nana and her obsession with stencils on her windows that looked like snow-mine never came out like that. Her silver tree with the revolving light of blue, yellow, and red. It was the 60's and the only green trees were real, but fake green was coming. At my Grandma's house she had two trees, one green and the other silver-with only blue balls on it. Both homes I wish I could duplicate, but there is always something special about going to Grandma's, in the snow.

Jesus became the reason for the season to me in 1975, and after moving to Albuquerque and my first non-white Charismas, drove back to Jersey with Garcia and his sister Geralyn. My first time home after being saved, and it was all different-going home always is after you have moved out and moved on. But that first time back I shared Jesus with Richard and he accepted the Lord in his car. That night I went to a Catholic service at midnight with Richard, not knowing what to expect, but having my heart filled when the priest's opening line was "Happy Birthday Jesus!" And with it white and cold outside, all was well inside, both the service and me.

Other visits back would bring more memories, the first time Andrew had seen snow, and cried-he didn't know it was cold! And one time showing up unexpectedly at my parents the night of the 23rd! My mother standing there mouthing words with no sound she was so excited. And both my parents telling me later it was the nicest gift they had ever been given-a Christmas to remember. And many still were to come-some white, some not-but all centered around Jesus. Who loves to give-not just on holidays. So this year will be very special to my family, for Jesus has given us the gift of life. I should be dead, but have been shown mercy, and this Christmas will be different. Although my dad passed away, I know where he is-celebrating. And the best gift I can give is being here for my family-God's grace. This Christmas my wife is not a widow, and my sons have their father here to celebrate with. One more year...and many more memories.

So to you I wish a very Merry Christmas to you and all those you hold dear. Treat it like it may be your last, and look back on the old ones and look forward to the new ones. Each year in Christ brings new hope and new reasons to celebrate. Whether in wintry Jersey, or balmy So Cal, remember wise men still seek Him. I have been to Bethlehem and Nazareth, both in Pennsylvania, and let me tell you, Jesus is there too. So God bless us each and every one-and if possible, and may all your Christmases be white!

You know, I think there is a song, or maybe a movie in there somewhere. Truly with Jesus, It's a Wonderful Life!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

personal preference

To me a motorcycle with a duffle bag bungeed to the rear seat is one of the most beautiful sights. I don't care what brand, what style, or even origin of manufacture, any bike ready to go out and ride for a trip is my kind of ride. Short trips-maybe a few days, or a real ride, 3-4 weeks, and when loaded just have a special appeal to me. The call of the road, the quest for adventure, and the freedom it represents get all my senses going into overload. Nothing else compares, except maybe my dog's affection to walking. Mention the word, and she is awake and ready. And all walks are good to her...just as getting on the road is good for me. Maybe that is why dog is man's best friend.

Simple is good when travelling, and we have over the years learned to pack light. We don't need to carry extra parts-today's bikes don't break, and the 2013 Tiger Explorer I am currently riding has shaft drive-no chain to worry about, tubeless tires-no tubes to go bad, a tire can be plugged with less hassle, and even has a ride by wire throttle-no cable to break or bind. So why aren't we out riding more? Less time packing means more time riding.

I marvel at what many riders take on a trip. Bags, trunks, and more bags bungeed to the top trunk. Even little accessory bags tied to forks, or any place else they can be fit. Using the idiom that there is no place like home, they take as much home with them as they can. I travelled to Canada with a guy once who took all the Harley parts he could stuff in his bags, including oil, just in case they didn't have any there. Guess what things he never needed to unpack? But I guess it gave him a sense of security...all the way down to a tool kit, and first aid kit! His only problem on the trip, a muffler style hose clamp, a $1 item bought along the way. He never thought to pack one, I guess. But yet we go out everyday, with a preset list for our daily journey, or routine, taking along what we think we will need to get by. Be prepared the Boy Scout motto says, but can we be over prepared, or wrongly prepared? Bruce had all the essentials, he thought, but still had to visit a dealer. And borrow a nut driver. I carried no tools, and had no problems. Go figure....

Today many packing lists consist of a cell phone, credit card, and AAA card. No dimes needed for phone calls, no tool kits. Nothing left to fix-and if it does, you need to be towed to a dealer. So why worry...enjoy the ride. And we pack for 4 day intervals, no matter the distance or time frame. And what you don't carry can be readily bought at a Wal-Mart, more accessible than many McDonald's along the road any more. And so we set out, hoping we are prepared, but never quite knowing until a situation arises...if only I had brought such and such. Or maybe if you had just stayed home...perish the thought!

Where God guides He provides we have heard over the years. And despite all the fund raisers, telethons, book sales, special offerings and the like, we find a false hope in God. "If I get the finances, I can go on that missions trip," we hear. And send out letters to those who have less money, when they should go directly to God. If He wants you to go, no amount of fund raising will help. If He gave you the vision, He will fulfill it. Or don't we remember Jesus telling His disciples to take no money, just what you have on you. God will provide a place to stay, food to eat, and all your needs along the way. Better than AAA! But yet we go out on our own, and fail. Blaming God, if only He had known. When really it is if only we had trusted, then obeyed. And if it works with touring, just imagine how it can work with such mundane events as daily life?

So trust God. If you aren't you are trusting someone or something else. Years ago a couple lost everything in a fire, including money hidden in their home. "We planned for a rainy day, but not a fiery night," he explained. We buy insurance, hoping we never get sick and have to use it. We buy extended warrantees, hoping to never use them. Yet we turn from God, hoping we never have to use Him. And when we do, then advising Him on how to handle the situation. Presenting out case to Him, bragging on why He should help out, and the time frame. Forgetting He already knows, and knew what was going to happen, and has the solution worked out. ALL things work to good for those who love Him...not just the pleasant things. ALL!

Over the years, and miles, I have found Him better than any insurance policy. He even prevents things from happening-remember Him next time you stop just in time. He has provided shops to open when closed, free meals, help when needed, and held things together until we noticed the problem. He keeps His word, do you keep His? Today ask Him what to take with you, He already knows what you need. Travel light, without the clutter of worry or sin. And don't go alone, take Him with you. You may find Jesus loves to ride, He spent most of His ministry on the road, and never had a worry about packing, money, or food to eat. Turn to Jesus and keep your eyes on the road, and all around you, without fear or worry.

If Adam had never sinned, imagine how different the ride would be today. In Jesus, you don't have to wonder. My personal preference for travelling is Jesus. What's yours?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

.

how will you know when you get there if you don't know where you're going

The few times while riding with someone who had a GPS and they led, we got lost. At least as far as they were concerned, but I was OK, I still had gas, and a few times just decided to change destinations. Avoiding the "I'm lost" cliff. There is a reason they tell you to arrive with a full tank. Years ago when we were younger and moved to Durango, we were invited to a Jaycee picnic. We decided to go to meet new people, and followed the directions given. When we came to a fork in the road, we took it, just not the right fork. And we ended up 27 miles out of or way at Vallecito Lake. A road and also a destination we might not have taken, based on time, gas in tank, other plans, or just not in the mood to go there. But it turned out to be a blessing, as months later we moved there. A beautiful area, 8300' altitude in the middle of a national forest, with only 72 residents on 22 miles of shoreline. Whether you blame it on poor directions, poor following, or lack of a GPS in those pre-GPS days, we were blessed to just follow the road. Discovering we really didn't want to go to that picnic after all. And that God had something better for us.

We have taken many trips like that over the years. Following roads just to see where they go, all without the benefit of GPS, or a map. It upsets me when I hear the stereotype that men don't ask for directions-I don't because I like to go new places, and I'm not afraid to. What's your excuse? And what is your result? Where you end up is based on where you were going, or where you go. Or who you go with, or better yet follow. We don't do group rides either, I call them crowd rides. You quickly find out most do not know how to ride, and can hide that fact when riding with their unskilled peer group. The best example we were ever part of was a group ride with Torches Across America, joining up with 3200 others on 9-11 to go into NYC, past ground zero, the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, then a feed and ceremony in Brooklyn. A great ride, exceptionally safe and well organized until the leader took a sign that said "Brooklyn." Our destination was Brooklyn, but we were going via the Holland Tunnel, the other fork in the road, that the Port Authority police had shut down for us. Wrong turn, and for an hour while the police tried to shut down the tunnel again, over 18 miles of motorcycles sat and waited. We did eventually make it to Brooklyn. All without the help of a GPS!

"Ride your own ride," we tell people. It is safer, and can be more exciting at the same time. Be yourself was the old 60-70's cry, a today many of us still try to be ourselves. But too many do not allow Christ in their lives the same luxury. While we are busy trying to find ourselves, we put Jesus in a box, or on a GPS. Not allowing Him to ride His own ride, which is much better than any we may be on. Restricting Him and not allowing Him to fully bless us. Too many have become entombed in religion-which means bound by, and know when to sit or stand based on denominational tradition, but don't know Jesus. Ever been told no when inviting someone to church? Wonder why? And in this season of many CEO's-Christmas and Easter only Christians, no wonder they feel uncomfortable. I gotta dress up-OK by the girls, ties are a burden to me. We have to act pious-what church do you go to? And we feel guilty if we don't put money in the offering-others are watching and we want to appear Christian. What stupid teaching did you adhere to? Rather than going to church, be reminded we are the church. Look at your life-why would I want to be like you? Let alone spend my free time with you and others like you? Where is the freedom Jesus speaks of, yet all your church does is tell me all the rules-spoken or worse yet, implied. They try to exercise being themselves, but yet do not allow Jesus the same freedom-the same one who died so they could be free! And you still wonder....which makes me wonder, and why I don't do many church visits anymore. How many of you would sign up to spend a weekend in jail-voluntarily, yet sign up to be bound up by religion? I love the freedom of knowing Jesus, of setting off knowing He is with me. He guides, and leads, and prepares a way, and if I get off of it or miss a turn, He is still there. He never left me, but often I leave Him. He know s not only the way, but the way back. It takes a commitment to follow, not just when it is convenient, but when it isn't. Faith is great, but only when it leads to evidence-remember faith is evidence of things not seen. Obedience is the sum total of faith...so why don't many allow Jesus to lead? They trust a GPS, poor directions, religious dogma, and Oprah rather than Jesus. Nostradamus was a great prophet, but not one of God. If alive in Biblical times he would have been stoned-either you were 100% or dead. Only those of God made the short list.

So rather than follow a computer-GPS, when you should or could be looking at the road, follow the ultimate GPS, God's Perfect Son! Let Him out of the box, and into your heart. Enjoy the freedom in the spirit, instead of the futility and burden of religion. Allow Jesus to be who He is in your life, and go down roads otherwise passed by. Take the fork in the road, sit at the counter and eat. Stand up and sing at church, and tell others about Him. Let the fruit of the spirit shine from within you, and maybe rather than asking, others will be asking to go with you...to church! You can keep your rules, I will keep my freedom. You can have your religion, I'll stick with Jesus. For whether in a group or alone, you are never alone with Him. Come to think of it, maybe I have been group riding with Him and never fully enjoyed it...just think, even more freedom of the road in Christ. Now what real biker would say no to that?

Quick, answer me, what has the law or legalism or religion added to your freedom? And you wonder why I rather follow Jesus? What GPS are you following? If you weren't ever lost, you never would have to be found...So this Christmas, when opening boxes, open one and let Jesus out. Enjoy a gift that keeps on giving. You see, there's this road I know...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

and some day when I settle down, all my friends will be around

The Eagles sang "I might live my life upon the road, just trying to add to what I know.." and over the years we have added many miles, meals, friendships, and experiences to what we know. Some friends we only see once a year, planning our journey around them, and some we see once every few years. But as change is a constant in every life, so many changes have happened this year, and the past few that so will our travel plans. From places to eat closing, old roads being replaced or rerouted, and old friends moving on, or moving out, many places will have a different persona when revisited again.

In a year of surprises, our next visit with some will be much different. We miss Mary FNY this Christmas season, as for the past few years she has been our companion. And the perfect hostess when we visited her in Long Beach, NY, two summers ago. But all has changed in her life-first a grand daughter who will keep her closer to home. But she is now without a home to go to, as Sandy has wiped her out among many others. Her Suzuki and Mustang towed away, victims. And as we think of her, we are reminded of thousands like her...and we will miss her, and hope to be guests in her home again soon.

Scotch Plains will be different on the next visit. My Dad died in May, and after years of it not being my house anymore, it was referred to as my parents. now we call it my Mother's, and this Christmas will be her first without her husband. Somehow it will be different without him there, her best friend of over 61 years gone. And one less reason for me to go to Scotch Plains...mostly memories now...and the new neighbors wouldn't know who I am anyway.

Andrew has lost friends again this year, at way too young an age. And I think of his best friend Cole many times, almost 5 years now. He was a tough, crazy kid who loved to ride. But who always gave me a hug, and was not ever embarrassed to tell me he loved me in public. He used to call me "Prayer Man" and once told me I was the only one besides his aunt who could make him cry. His tears with me were always from the heart, a bigger man than any of his friends could imagine.

Durango will never be the same to me after this summer. After being life flighted, Dal took Theresa to Albuquerque, a short 250 mile drive, and came down to see her, reminding me "I'm only here for her," and it was the right thing to do. Love will do that. At 76 he has been without his love, Ann for over 8 years now, and talked of girl friends-now he is remarried and living in Texas, where he is from. Only Dean remains in Durango, and he is more than enough reason to return. So Texas will be on our next long trip, to see Dal and the new Mrs., and Dana and her family, and Warren and his. Friends for over 30 years, when we go years between visits, we just pick up where we left off. Friends can do that-just be themselves. And all of these were, are, and continue to be my friends. I will also add Don Wurth, Sr. to that list. Jacob's grandpa, and Donnie's Dad. Although I knew him very little, I still have a great affection and respect for him. I know Donnie misses him, but will carry on and assist his mom as needed. Families do that for each other-they can be friends too!

A lesson Job would learn. After being verbally accosted and accused by his friends, Job fired back at them. All they could see was his sin, not God at all. But Job knew God, so could ask them "have you ever questioned those who travel, have you paid no attention to their accounts?" Job 21:29. Trying to help, but not helping at all. Causing more pain, and pushing the limits of friendship. Men coming to see him from afar, but who should have stayed home. But recorded here for our benefit, so we don't follow them in their footsteps.

The Eagles also sang "and some day when I settle down, all my friends will be around... "And I hope you are, for the greatest lesson I learned this summer was you have no choice in when or where, or even how you will die. I should have, but didn't, that's God's grace. I was with Jesus while alive in the spirit, and can't wait until I am again. I want to go back to that time and be with Him. But until I do, when He says so, I have many more miles, and many more friends to make. And places to go that I would never expect. Me, life flighted? I never would have even imagined that! So when God talks of heaven, "eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor mind imagined the things of God," it means here on earth for us too. We can enjoy all that he has for us while alive. Some will die, refusing Him, and hell awaits them. The sad thing is they didn't have to, their is no rescue from salvation, only from sin. Jesus came to rescue us from it, to be redeemed. God sends no one to hell-it is their choice. And if you choose to deny Him here, He will honor your request in heaven-He doesn't push Himself on anyone.

If you are reading this, and have said yes to Jesus, heaven awaits. If not, choose Him today. He is merciful, loving, and forgiving-and patient that none should perish. I want all my friends to be around.

Don't wait until an helicopter ride interrupts your ride, or your vacation. I tell people Jesus rides with me, and I am glad He was with me this summer. At home or on the road-don't leave earth without Him! All my friends, and that includes you-Jesus hopes you are around. And so do I...forever.

Puts a whole new perspective on my travel accounts doesn't it? Now do I have your attention? Does Jesus? Let's ride!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

no rainbow without the rain

The novelty of rain has once again embraced So Cal, changing, altering, and cancelling our plans. Despite the fact that the weatherman told us it would rain, I am still always taken by surprise when it really does. And as the rain beats down on our roof, and the under watered vegetation gets a good soaking, I will have to review my plans, and go in the car. Unlike many of you who ride when the weather is perfect, but still take the car anyway, we ride. And until it doesn't make sense to ride locally for errands, we will seek alternative transportation, aka the car. In it I will be treated to such luxuries as a climate controlled cabin, wipers, a stereo, and somehow stay dry and disconnected from the same roads I ride daily. I will have to go slower, cannot use the commuter lane alone, and no lane splitting in the car. It will take over $40 of gas to get me where $15 would on any of my motorcycles, and no helmet head to boast of later. No packages bungeed to the seat, no convenient up front parking, and no one to wave back to-I'm in a car. No one waves in cars. Maybe now you can get it when we call them a cage. No wind in my face, no great smells past the bakery, no thrills in the corners. Tucked into the security of 4-doors and a windshield I will go about my business today. Or as far as $40 of gas will get me.

When planning a trip I always figure the cost of gas. At 40-45 mpg on the Tiger, I can travel almost 600 miles a day on the same costs of gas that will take me 150 today. Over a period of a couple of weeks, that's real money. The difference between an over priced Happy Meal and supersizing it. More money, more food, less nutrition. More fast food, and less sit down mad being waited on. Less of "let's go back and check that out," and more of how far to the nearest gas station. But today will be errands, mostly for Christmas, so maybe the rain will help buffer the fact I would need to drive instead of ride anyway. After all it is the Christmas season, some concessions can be made. And my rides will be safe and warm in the garage when I get home. Sad faced, like the dog when she gets left behind for a walk, but ready for the nice weather tomorrow.

And then there is the guy selling umbrellas and raincoats. The car detailers whose business will also boom a few days after the rain stops, so all is not as gloomy as the weather looks. But also those who live in the desert welcome the rain, as do most farmers. They will tell you that nothing beats rain for irrigation, there are nutrients and elements to rainwater that our tap water cannot duplicate. So today while riding in a cage, I will be thankful for the cage, and for the blessings the rain will bring. I only wish it would only happen while I'm asleep at night. For the sun also has its benefits.

God tells us that the rain falls on the just and the unjust. You figure out which you are. Either way you get wet, and dry out after it is over. And I reflect on Mary and those I know back in Long Island and Jersey, who have suffered through, and continue to suffer after Sandy. So many good people, who lost everything, and so many who will never fully recover. But the same God that allowed the rain is also the same God who sends the sun. And who sent His only son, Jesus, to make the way back to Him. I'm not sure why, but it takes a storm to bring us closer, or back to God. The bigger the storm, the more to lose-but also the most to gain. And He knows that, so allows them, even sometimes sends them into our lives. And just how He allows and provides cars and rain suits for those of us who ride, He provides shelter to those who need it. But you must listen to Him. And as a society we feel the need to reach out, name a topic, there is a ride, fund raiser, or some sort of concert going on for the victims. But as we saw first hand in Joplin, one-to-one ministry is most effective. And God knows that in all of our situations, which is why in love He reaches out to us. He is the rain to the farmer, and the sun to the flood victims. He is calm in the storm, keeping us safe. A strong tower, He is called. His grace is sufficient-not too much, not too little, not early, not late. But you must take His offer, or suffer. Which is why so many suffer more than they have too, He has provided a way out via Jesus-when it is so simple, why do so many still say no? Or worse yet, accuse Him and turn against Him?

In the midst of your storm today turn to Jesus. He is there to help, in a way you can't imagine. Just ask Peter, one morning at 4 am He sees Jesus walking on a stormy lake. And after falling in, calls on Him to help, and reaching out His hand Jesus pulls Him out, and immediately they are at their destination. He not only saves, but delivers us, too.

So a ride in the rain will not alter me too much. Might even do me good, as I can get my errands done. And after the rain, there is a rainbow. A sign from God of His love, and how He will never flood the earth again with rain. But it takes clouds and rain to bring the rainbow. Let all the promises of God be yours today through His promises, and bask in the light of His son, Jesus. As for me, wow-I get to ride in the car today! Safe in the ark that God has provided-only Noah will ever appreciate seeing the sun more again. Whether you see His son is up to you. Sonshine with showers-God has our scenery set.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

lights 4 Laiken-chapter 2012

Our afternoon started out heading for the Mission Inn in Riverside. An historic hotel, they decorate like no other for Christmas, and seeing it at night was wonderful. Far from the self seeking mall crowds, we sat and ate dinner on the outside mall, and as it got darker, the lights came on. A Festival of Lights they call it, and it was. On this Tuesday night two weeks before Christmas, it was not over run with people yet, but soon would be. Every window, nook, cranny, or whatever was decorated, from 6' nutcrackers to dancing penguins to Santa on a 4th floor chimney. It was neat, and on this 70 degree afternoon, we watched as they unloaded reindeer, and even in the warmth of the day, it would not have been a surprise if it had started to snow. A wonderful time and place, one I was blessed to be part of. And traditional Christmas music filled the air...it's the most wonderful time of the year.

But our real festival of lights was later, as we were going to the annual Lights 4 Laiken party that her mom, Stacy, and dad Jim throw every year. A very special time to remember a very special girl. Every year I marvel as Stacy somehow outdoes herself, and this year was no disappointment. Over 200 people of all ages were there, and as always the street was blocked off. Tables filled with cookies and hot chocolate. Chino city police cars with flashing lights, and even a police truck pulling a sleigh with Santa, loaded with kids. Playing Christmas songs, the way it oughta be. Led by a motor cop-ahh, Christmas in So Cal is so different. We had our picture taken in the picture booth and visited friends we only see once a year. A special time, Christmas time. But as my heart reminds me, it's really Jesustime!

But this year was even more special for me. I will be here to spend it with my family. I almost wasn't. And as I watched Theresa and Stacy visit and talk, I was touched at how they both had much in common. Stacy had endured years with Laiken's sickness, and spent so much time in hospitals. She had endured a private agony that only God could relieve, and my wife had endured the same with me this summer. I thought of Laiken in ICU, alone with the doctors and nurses, and I thought of my 20 days in Cardiac Critical Care. I thought of times with Stacy and crying together with her. Touched by a little girl I hardly knew, but knew wonderfully. Finally God told Laiken, "from now on you can call my house home," and she went to be with him almost five years ago. And I could see the pain and love of Stacy for Laiken, how she misses her, and reflects on the good times. Knowing someday she will see her again. And how much my wife loved me. How I am still here to hug and hold, and to comfort her. And in love annoy...Truly there is no better feeling than being loved...only a mom or a wife can fully know. Somehow they know without words even being exchanged. God has given them that special insight, that only comes from knowing Jesus. I watched blessed. And so we rejoice that we know Jesus, but it is even more special that He knows us-He even knows our name! How cool is that?

And so as I made my way to the table to get my latest Laiken Christmas ornament, her photo graced the table. And as I thought of past L4L, I thought of the first year, and helping those getting hot chocolate by filling their mouths with whipped cream, and soon we had emptied many cans in fun. Not much ever made it into the chocolate. Fun like Laiken had. I thought of the young girl last year who wouldn't sit on Santa's lap, not knowing it was her own dad. And crying and screaming not knowing his voice. And as I looked around, those who were 4 or 5 then, are 10 now. Laiken's classmates are now 18, almost out school, driving and have girlfriends and boyfriends. I could see Laiken among them. I also noted so many younger ones, Abigail's age, who was born in August after Laiken went home. The little sister she had always wanted-I can see here in her shirt saying I am the big sister. And the many who come out of love for Jim and Stacy. Knowing about Laiken, but never getting the chance to meet her. And I felt special, fighting tears as I looked at Laiken's photo. Such a pretty little girl, and I knew her. She was my friend. But the smile, the joy I left with was because Laiken knew me. Ask yourself-now how cool is that?

Merry Christmas to all-and a most joyous Jesustime!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

In God we trust, all others use bank cards

As kid I was excited at the back of the magazines. This is where the advertisements would be for all the neat things you would want to put on your first car or motorcycle-provided you could wait until the teen years to attain one. These ads would promise a free catalog and a decal-in these pre-sticker days, and all you had to do was send in a quarter, carefully taped over the round quarter sized image on the form, put it in an envelope, put on a 4 cent stamp, and then wait the weeks for your prize to arrive. But what to put your sticker on? Dad's Rambler? One time I ended up putting a Cheerful Charlie Speed Shop sticker on his VW-the only thing cool about any VW as far as I could tell, and which elevated my 12 year old status among my friends, wow, your Dad is cool. Oh, the good old days.

I remember decorating my walls with 24x36 prints from Plymouth-full color of their performance cars, Road Runner, Barracuda, etc, with cartoon drawings of the real cartoon road runner on them and the likes. All for that 25 cent handling charge. Why did I ever get rid of them? How about the cut away views of Indy and Formula One race cars I got from Shell, same price. Only a young fool would have thrown them out, no old fools in that department I hope. Hooker Header stickers, Bell Helmet, the wicked woodpecker of Clay Smith Cams, and those Powered by Ford blue decals-all so cool, and all used up, tore off, and thrown away. All for 25 cents plus a stamp-maybe the best 30 cents a kid could spend, better than three Archie comics with Betty and Veronica! Well, each one had its benefits, let's see, how about B and V on in a Road Runner? Wearing a Bell Helmet t-shirt? Help, I fell those teen hormones kicking in!

But the ad I never responded too, never read it either, was the one of urban legend status. It read "last chance to send in your dollar!" then gave a PO box somewhere. The legend goes on to tell that this one act made millions for its author based upon the greed of those who read it and responded. Last chance for what? And a whole dollar? That would come right out of my sticker fund? No way-anyway the legend would be repeated next month, in case you missed it this month. But to me the best deal for my quarter was in Cycle magazine, where for 25 cents I could circle all the ad numbers I wanted and get mucho ads and decals. With only a little fudging of info asked, yes I'm over 21, I own this many and brands of motorcycles, and will be buying a new one within 30 days. Now...get them decals coming! Which explains why so many of my Cycle magazine collection is missing part of that page-oh if I only had something to show for it now.

A quarter used to be a lot of money, and money used to talk. Remember how impressed you were when some guy would pull out a wad of cash? No more, as things, and times have changed. Years ago my friend Ted wanted to buy a Wendy's franchise, so he called them up. When he asked how much, they weren't concerned about how much cash he had in the bank, but were more interested in his credit line. So he referred them to his dad, who was president of the bank they owned. How much credit did he need? When we moved west and wanted to buy a home, we had worked hard to pay off everything, no car payments, all credit card balances zero, and had saved some cash. Which all backfired when we applied, it seems they want you to have outstanding credit, it shows you pay your bills on time, and we were advised to go buy a car or use the credit cards. And you wonder where we went wrong economically? No longer was cash king, your FICA score talked, and soon it wasn't what you had, but what you could borrow that was important. And no one sent in quarters any more for stickers. And Cycle magazine went away, a victim of the times.

God tells us to owe no man nothing. It is not so much the payment He has trouble with, it is the debt that ruins relationships He emphasizes. For whoever you owe money to has power over you, or you have power over them. He tells it is better to give it as a gift and forget about it than to be a lender or borrower. Which I learned when I lent money to my best friend once to buy a house, and soon he missed payment by a few days, and we both knew it. And it created friction, not so much between us, but when his wife's ego was damaged because of it, we soon lost our great relationship. And the two friends went separate ways. And I was out of over $2000! Lesson learned, maybe God does know something about finances.

And so He warns us not to fall prey to those who beg for money on TV and then promise monetary rewards. "Send in a seed faith donation, and God will reward you." If you really wanted the blessing, aka the money they promised, set up such a deal yourself! But just as Jesus warns of these types, so many still fall prey to them. It seems the poor are the worst, and are taken advantage of more often. Why would you trust a man who needs money from you to be rich when you can go to God directly who is? Whose credit line is without limit, who pays in cash, doesn't need a credit card, or debit card, and meets all your needs? He doesn't even have a checking account, based on today's economy, would you lend to Him? Figure in how His son Jesus never even owned property and had no place of His own, would you cash His check?

But yet so many sign up for what He can do monetarily, not what He has done to give us life. He forgives, try that with your bank. "Sorry MasterCard, I need food this month." Credit may get you out of a hole, but it also will get you into a hole. So give the Master Charge of your life. Give instead of loaning, and become a debtor to no man. Always buy the first round as the crowd only gets larger, and give hilariously, wanting to not being forced to. For 25 cents we got a great deal, but as we get older we want more and more expensive things. Start with Jesus, and He'll provide. After the gift of eternal life, notice I said gift, you can't earn it or buy it, everything else loses it value. You cannot buy your way into heaven, but you can send riches ahead-so give!

A sticker in the late 60's at A&P, a grocery chain now bankrupt, said "Optical illusion, 100 cents = $1." What illusion are you living under today? The things that are seen are temporal, the things not seen are eternal. In God I trust, all others use bank cards. What's in your wallet? It may tell us more of what is in your heart than you want us to know.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com