can't find what you're looking for...

As a kid it seemed everybody's dad had some kind of work bench. Whether just hammer and nails, or a full blown lathe with tools, as a kid you wanted to work with it. But had to deal with the fact you weren't old enough, but someday you could. Soon, Mike, you're still young, late fifties,...It was a time when dads fixed things from garden hoses to screens. Nothing got thrown away, but saved, as it may become needed and valuable some day. And many of us carry on the tradition still, for when looking around my garage I find motorcycle parts I know I will never use. What is the demand for luggage racks for a 2000 Sprint RS? Mirrors for a 2006 Tiger? And I even have a space for parts from my 1990 Crown Vic, parts that should be thrown away, yet I can't seem to part with them. Is it me-or the parts? Or both?

Thanks to China and other nations who don't pay their employees a fair wage, we have numerous replacement parts available. Replace the part-cheaper and faster than fixing the old. But not as satisfying. We spend more time in line at Home Cheepo than replacing the part. What did you do Saturday morning, fix the faucet or wait in line?

Remember changing your own oil? Replacing your spark plugs? How about washing your own car? In many cases memories, now we have quick lube who can do it faster and cheaper-but not necessarily better. Spark plugs-every 100,000 miles-if you get them out! See you at the car wash-not as good as you used to do, but it gives you more time to wait in line to have these things done.

And what about the work bench? It still may be there, but the tools are long gone. Now it has beach chairs, dog leashes, and at my house add motorcycle parts. Somewhere under there is a work bench-just waiting for you. But today many are just a depository for junk we don't have room for anywhere else. Too many things, just not enough things to do. Add that to the list.

I have always found that maintenance is cheaper than repairs. Not that maintenance is cheap, but you can save time and effort, and money by being smart now. A form of maintenance. We all know the Jiffy Lube mantra about every 3000 mile oil changes, but what about our walk with God? Many approach it as a penalty for knowing Him, and an hour a week seems like eternity to them. Not realizing the decision you make for Jesus today will dictate where you spend eternity. We rather wait until our kids are in trouble, rather than instruct them now. Teach them morals-then you won't need as many rules. Put down the cell phone and talk with your kids. You might learn something. And you all may avoid problems later. Lead by example-you may find out you already are, and the example is not one you want your kids to emulate.

Use life to be a workbench. Jesus is all the tools you need. Many precious times are spent with Him just visiting. Or hanging out, with no particular plan in mind, just hanging with Jesus. And maybe your kids-or spouse. Let go of things from the past-so much is just clutter, pass it on to someone who needs it-maybe just give it away for free. And watch as your life becomes less cluttered and you are free from the burden of things. The freedom found in Christ now becomes part of your family. And everyday life.

But like the proper use of a work bench, it takes work. Effort, and a commitment. Anything done well does. Check out Jesus today. Start clearing off the work bench-you may find things you couldn't find and thought you had lost. Kids and family included. Along with self respect-which you will transfer to others in love.

Every tool has a purpose, and a place. Find your place in Jesus, and find your true purpose. The time spent today will have an impact on tomorrow. Maintenance is still cheaper than repairs-pay me now or pay me later.

Jesus already paid the price. Take full advantage of it now, before today becomes yesterday, and the bench of life cluttered with junk. Jesus Christ-the right tool at the right time-for all times!

And enjoy the day spending it with your dad.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

job-lessness

Let's start off with a multiple choice question, just to prove a point. The book of Job is about a-Job, b-the devil, or c-God? Times up. The answer in a minute. But first...

I get many prayer requests from well meaning people. From how can I afford a new prom dress, to how can I afford my next operation. With most somewhere in between, after they have tried to figure out the problem themselves, blamed someone else, and then finally turned to God. Often with advice, or giving Him a choice of which solution to choose for them. Note-our solutions generally involve no pain or sacrifice, and usually resemble more of the genie in the lamp approach. Love doesn't demand of itself. For instance I recently got a request for help with a ministry, I get a lot of those. We need this, we need that...if you are truly following God, it is His ministry and He will and already has provided all you need. Usually not the answer we want. With the request drawing attention to us, and away from God. If you cannot trust God, do you think He will put His precious children in your hands? So instead of trusting God, we appeal to our Christian family, who usually is so wrapped up in our own problems. And despite the situation, the request many times ends asking for money. Why not just ask God, isn't it His riches that He draws from, don't expect much if you are looking at my bank accounts. But in this request I saw two common misconceptions about God-taught by churches, but not found in the Bible. One-blame the devil. Was it not you who used poor business sense? If it is the devil's fault, why are you listening to him? Will he bail you out? Do you doubt God has everything under control? The other is money will solve all things-spiritual and physical. Wrong again-although many sent us money to help with my recent open heart surgery, no amount of money would solve the problem, it took God's hand on the proper surgeon. No attacks from the devil, but a time to trust God, and turn to Him, not from Him. And so I offer this advice-Godly advice, which works if taken.

First go to God, and only God. Job's friends ended up being more of a burden than a blessing. God is in full control, blaming the devil for your own stupidity won't solve anything. Too many talk to the devil, when they should be talking with God. And then listening. What would Jesus do? You have to ask? Many don't have a clue. How can you trust someone you don't know?

Throughout our summer ordeal we never doubted God, or that this was all about Him, although we were important players in it. Never blamed the devil, doctors, elevation, or ourselves-we trusted. We went beyond faith, we were obedient. Which leads to blessings. For although grace is all about God, it is still our choice to accept what He provides-or deny it, and wimp and cry, and blame others. We found great strength in our weakness, I was among the "least of them" and could only look to God and to no one else. I am glad I didn't. So we come back to the opening question, who is the book of Job about?

If you answered c-God you are correct. For the Bible, all of it is about God. Not Moses, not Joseph, and certainly not me. It is about God, who sent Jesus so we could be reunited with Him. He never left us-can we say the same? So next time you pray, or send a request, pray first. Knowing that a loving god has already begun the process, and He will put you on whose heart He wants to pray for you. To show is love and grace. He knows the answers, we obviously don't. So listen to God-a key component in prayer. And then obey. Without faith it is impossible to please God, without obedience you will never see the blessings He has in store. When He offered you salvation, did you accept it? Or blame someone else?

Look to the one who can control life and death, when Job finally did He was so much closer to God. It's that personal. He had riches restored, but the true richness came from His relationship with God. Why blame the devil when you can praise the Lord?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

just an old car with faded paint

While cruising through the auto park, I noticed lots of signs announcing the 2013's, and huge discounts on the 2012's. Amazing how just a few weeks ago they were worth so much more, but now must be cleared to make room for the same cars in different shades of gray at higher prices. But with so many used, excuse me pre-owned cars filling lots, you wonder why buy new. While the sales force is telling you what a deal you are getting on the latest new car, suddenly it is old and a liability when you go to trade it in. And there is no intrinsic trade value to sentiment, so you are left to either go with the higher payments, along with the new car, or endure another year with your old car, which looks much like the new ones. More times than not you will end up with the higher payments, after all new looks so much better showing off to your friends. And after you have shown all who care, and many who don't, you make the first payment and all the new is gone. Cycle to be repeated again in 4-5 years.

When our economy was booming, in the pre-Obama days, new cars were purchased every 2-3 years. Now the average age of the cars on the road is over ten years, and I am finally average in something, driving a 2001 and a 2003. And a 1995, and Uncle Buck-a 1990. So I am actually above average. Wonder how that will effect my trade-in negotiations? And so the games continue.....

Back to Uncle Buck. Most guys that ride have an older car for going to get parts, and for the monsoon season. Uncle Buck fills the bill. Big, comfortable, and with lousy gas mileage, he reminds me of why I ride. Paint fading, but a super clean interior, tires fair-do I sound like I am selling a used car, most look at him as just an old car with bad paint, but everyone seems to think he is cool. The same car your parents, or heaven forbid your grandparents would own, despite your urging for the red convertible, is now cool. I just don't get this generation and their affinity for sedans. Unless it is for easier access to the back seat. For kids, of course. But Uncle Buck seems to defy even the rudest Wal-Mart shopper when confronted in the parking lot, easily filling any space, allowing room for over $300 of Costco to fit in his trunk, and ride in luxury, set apart from the world outside. Such a deal. And he is paid for.

Sure the patina is faded, what is patina anyway? So rather than put money into him, I just drive him when needed. No payments, basic insurance, and a coolness not found in any other sedan. You drive a Toynismazhon? Sadly he is gray, a concession to style even 22 years ago. Get over it.

From time to time someone famous gets saved and explodes on the market. Stations brag about how he will bring more into the kingdom-neglecting God who got all of us there to start with. Taking a new convert, exposing him to the pressures of fame-aka pride, and then wondering why in a few months he is back to where he came from. Like the new car, once he has been seen by many, the new wears off, and he is just the same person. God warns of this, even telling us old friends are better than new ones. How the older should take care of the young. The best example I have seen is among mechanics-you still can't teach experience! But yet we give up the security of Jesus for a few fleeting moments of fame. Hey, I got to meet so and so. Pardon me while we all yawn together.

Uncle Buck is a survivor. Old enough to vote, and old enough to have his own place, yet he lives home with us. So stick with what you know, or who you know-Jesus, and don't stray to anything else. Somewhere in your walk, you will find you have matured, and can begin to share with others. Maybe it is the patina test-old enough to know better, but still young enough to enjoy it. So continue to ride, maybe keep the car a year longer, and don't fall into the traps society sets. Stay with God-He is staying with you, and watch as the memories and testimonies grow. And when shared with a younger one, they too look forward to the days you are sharing about. To some you may just be an old sucker with bad teeth, but to those of us who believe you are precious.

And if you are driving an old car with faded paint, remember the best view is over the hood-where you are going. And just like the best view is over the handlebars, the best is yet to come. With memories to prove it. You can either feed the payment book, or your memory book. Only one is an investment-let your own heart decide.

Stick with Jesus-after 2000 years a style that only gets better with age...such a deal He has for you!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

gas wars

Before OPEC became a guiding force in our daily lives, $2 would buy a lot of gas, and a lot of good times. I can remember my Dad commenting while filling his '63 VW at a Sunoco station across from a new Corvette, "how can he afford to drive that?" The year was 1968. The Vette was filling up with Sunoco 260, racing gas at the pump for 32 cents/gallon, while the VW was taking 23 cent/gallon 190, the lowest grade. And his fill-up would last more then two weeks, no comment on the Corvette. One measured in mpg, the other fun per mile. You choose.

When filling our motorcycles, it was hard to put in a dollar. And in a state where the law was full serve, it was always rumored the mob owned the gas pump jockey's union, they would come out and stand there while you filled up. The young guys in awe of your bike, the old guys not as impressed, as their memories of Vincents and Indians were faster. And the legend continued.

But these were pre-OPEC days, and no one thought much of foreign oil. Either it came from Pennsylvania crude, or Texas-a foreign country to those of us living in Jersey. And then one day when gas jumped to 35 cents, we all went into a panic. 35 cents! That's only 6 gallons for two bucks? It's gonna cost us another dollar a night to cruise! And at four guys in a car, come across with the quarter each of you! Which impacted our McDonald's intake, "just one fry this time please." And for the first time I filled up for over a buck on my Honda. And it really hurt when filling my R90S with 260, with its 6.3 gallon tank at 50 cents/gallon, that was-robbery. A meal at Mickey D's cost less. Never before in our lives had we seen such robbery-it had to be the politicians!

So we did the proper thing, and moved to Ft. Lauderdale. Where the seniors didn't get up till late, or at least off the golf course till noon, and the lines were shorter. Except on odd/even days, or at one station who passed out matchbooks-no matches, no match, or gas. And with great weather that January, we used a lot of 260!

But few remember or even know that the Arab response with higher prices was due to Israel. After the US of A support of our ally Israel in the Yom Kippur War, they turned against us. And have been bleeding us dry ever since. Such can be the cost of defending a friend. Something we fail to recognize today, and may quite possibly be the epitaph of the US. The Bible tells us that God will bless all who honor Israel, and curse her enemies. After some 4000 years you might think we get it, but we don't. Again-politicians. But God know, and continues to shed His grace on us, not holding the many responsible for the few. And so normalcy bias has set in-the since I never have seen it, it won't happen belief. Read history-it will.

So what do we do, despite our political lack of ethics? Drive less? Drive smaller cars? Or do we take a stand for right-Jesus? For God also says if we repent and turn to Him, He will heal our land. Anyone upset about healing? Again the politicians. Why is it that politics and virtue, especially Christian ethics are at odds with each other? And with so many Christians so wrapped up in politics, and worrying about who will be elected, it is no wonder. How about this, trust God. In Romans it tells us to pray for our leaders, that God has appointed, whether we agree with them or not. Good times, thank Him. Bad times, rejoice, His day of return is that much closer. And yet He continues to take care of us and bless us. Can we truly be a Christian nation if we don't bless God?

Turn to Jesus today. Stand with Him-He's already standing for you. Look to Him, not the situation. Don't go to man, go to Him, and watch as He meets your needs. But you need to trust Him, and the more you know Him, the more you trust Him. Not knowledge, not religion, a relationship with Him. A friendship. A covenant-a contract with no expiration date.

Gone are the days of trusting your car to the man who wears the star. It is time to trust the one who is the bright morning star. Who meets all your needs, and who is a friend of Israel. Will you back politicians, or Jesus? Many of us already have made the decision, and live worry free in Christ. Today is the day to take your life off empty and be filled with the Holy Spirit. The fill-up is on Jesus, and will refill you every day. All you need to do is trust. Maybe the easiest, yet hardest thing you will ever do.

And I will continue to ride, at 45mpg, smiling in their face. Living well used to be the best revenge. Living for Jesus is the best. Even for those who still ride just for fun of it. Do you think maybe we're onto something?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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what has two wheels and flies?

In the beginning, God created motorcycles. And He saw it was good, so He went riding. But soon man saw it was good also, and soon we after motorcycles we had scooters. Not quite a motorcycle, but by definition two wheels and a motor. Take that one if you believe in evolution-a much lesser type of motorcycle. Some people thought they were cute, real bikers found them annoying. Then soon as we got older, trikes came along. Add a third wheel, in the rear, make the handling unstable, remember the Honda ATC controversy a few years back, and soon they thought they were riding a motorcycle too. Then along came a Spyder, and sat down beside us-from Bombardier. And soon a whole generation of people were riding what they thought were motorcycles-but they weren't. Purchased in bike shops, but so were watercraft. You needed a motorcycle endorsement to ride one-but they weren't a motorcycle. But don't tell those that think they are-it is dangerous to wake up a sleepwalker, imagine one who is riding-at least they won't fall over if on three wheels!

But let's go back a few years, to when bikes had to be kick started. Men were men and Honda never called their little bikes motorcycles-they were developing the Honda philosophy! And the creative decided to put VW motors in trikes. Never my favorites. Creative, yes, but still not a motorcycle. And the even more creative or performance oriented used Corvair motors, more power! One ride would scare you back into your Chevy. But it still had three wheels. It took one Kenny Howard, aka Von Dutch, to put a VW motor in a motorcycle frame, restrict it to two wheels, and ride. Even Munch, with their Mammoth, had an NSU motor. At 1600cc, was as fast as a Z-1 at the time, but no one wanted it parked outside of their house. Defining the uncool motorcycle. If you want a car, buy one-if you want to ride, buy a motorcycle!

Yet the revolution goes on, where Honda remarked at their last Wing Ding 40% of the bikes registered were trikes. Is senility taking over this older crowd, or will we go to any length to keep their throttle hand from withering? I hope to never have to answer that one. I have no problem with those who trike-but please-do not try to convince me you are riding a motorcycle! Safety as you get older, tell that to an old friend of mine who used to kick start his old Bonneville-and he only had one leg! Balance-learn to ride. Running boards went out in the 40's!

Maybe we should blame it on the toy company who brought us the Big Wheel, showing kids at a young age that it is harder to fall off a trike. Robbing them of the joy of heading down the hill on their first two wheel excursion. These may be subtle, but not motorcycles! The truth is still the truth.

Contrary to popular belief, God did not create denominations, or religion. Man did it himself. Calling it truth, encouraging those not saved to think they are. See above for trikers who think they ride. Setting up their own set of rules, they brought God to their level, and just like on the Aqualung cover, believe in the beginning, man created God. For their own benefit. Just the opposite of the truth. And continue today with denominational doctrines, many times in conflict with scripture, rules made up to gain salvation-it is a gift and cannot be earned, and leading many astray. Nice people-just not Christians. Christian ethics, just not saved.

Some even use the name of Jesus, and are cultic, some deny His deity, yet quote from His word. Misquoting actually, never acknowledging He is the Word. You may know some like these, or be stuck in one yourself. Now is the time to trust God. Stand up for truth, and rebuke the lies. For many have fallen to these clever liars, but only have a type of Godliness, not the truth. Only one can claim He is the truth-is that who you follow? Or have you succumbed to denominational rhetoric?

An old joke asks what has four wheels and flies? A garbage truck. What has two wheels and flies? A motorcycle. Different style of flies. How do you fly? This is not meant to insult those who trike, but to remind them they are trikers, not bikers. And not meant to insult those who go to church, but to be encouraged in the truth-Jesus Christ. Don't fall into any convenient lies, and go along with the crowd. Seek the truth on your own. The first time you lean into a curve on two wheels it will take faith-don't stop there. Lean on Jesus! You won't fall. Enjoy the ride, with Him along. Many don't realize He rides. So think about it. After six long days of hard work, what would you do to rest and relax? Jesus and motorcycles-it just don't get any better. Trust Him today and find out.

Whether on two or three wheels, trust Jesus. Now if we could only get church folks to wave at each other like we do....

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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the high cost of free advice

Since my open heart surgery I am amazed at the amount of free medical advice I have been given. With all this free advice readily available, why do we have an insurance crisis? Particularly when it is free, no appointment needed, and most times unsolicited. It seems everyone is an authority. From not knowing what open heart surgery is-it is not stints, to being told that I should have had a pig's valve installed-my valves were OK, to never hearing of an aorta, the old theory of open mouth, insert foot is given in many illustrations. Which leads me to one question for them, would you take your own advice? To which they reply, "I'm just trying to help..."rather indignantly. We may not have found the cure, but maybe the cause.

When I was a service advisor I would get occasional people who have researched their symptom on the Internet, and then proceed to tell me the problem, and how to solve it. My reply was always the same-"right click and have the Internet fix it." Without proper diagnosis, which can be extensive, how do you know if you have found the cause. The common theme being they didn't want to spend any money. Then why buy a Land Rover? Have at least another car because it will live in the shop. Your garage is for the loaner while you still make the payments. Lee Iacocca said it best, "you never put two #2's together to make a #1!" Or to quote Rodney Dangerfield, "look out for #1, and don't step in #2!"

I know a guy, well meaning whose name is Vince. He was hired as a crew chief of a race team, but thought he knew it all. And rather than doing his job which was running the team, tried to reinvent the wheel-and ended up with a flat tire. Which we already had plenty of, wonder whatever happened to him?

Lately I have watched as churches take worldly advice for spiritual problems. Giving God advice. I know one thing, you cannot solve spiritual problems with physical advice. But you can cure worldly problems with spiritual advice. I hear of one church "teaching" its flock how to witness. Use buzzwords, the four spiritual laws, and the Roman's road approach. Anything but the spirit, which changes lives, not you. Wonder whatever happened to that pastor, and his flock? We are to love-try being my friend and I'll listen long before you start preaching at me. I'm gone when you do. I even had one well meaning, but zealous man visit me in CCC, talking to me as if I was in sin, I finally had him banned from visiting. Jesus put it simple-if thirsty, give drink. Naked, clothe them. Hungry, share your lunch. And if stuck in a hospital bed or jail cell, visit. Which I was, fighting to survive. care about his religion, I was saved, and in the spirit. If only he would have listened. To which many have, and still do. Let the spirit guide, for not only was this man incorrect in much of his theology, but also in his approach. Pray for those who are like him-particularly those in pulpits. As I was reminded by a friend who has backslidden, hypocrisy is the most dangerous and destroying thing the world hates, from Christians. It's ok for them to be duplicit-just not us.

Have you asked the Holy Spirit to guide your day? Or are you still leaning on your own understanding? You can't do both. The tire may only be flat on the bottom, but it is still flat. Trust God. He will give the words, and preach the gospel daily, only using words when needed. A hug can tell more about Jesus than how much you gave to missions. Keep the agenda simple-only Jesus. And watch as God will work in your life.

For the rest of you, right click, and join the others who have gone astray. Remember-nowhere does Jesus say to go out witnessing-you can turn Him on or off. He tells you to be a witness, something no class, not preaching, and no doctrine can teach. Leave the switch on at all times. It takes the spirit. Without the spirit you will only have a form of godliness, but never fully know God. And if you are not for Him, you are against Him.

As for free medical advice, I have been released from all restrictions by my doctors, and as of Tuesday I am riding again. With only one doctor to go-my wife. But her love has helped me get to where I am, never neglect the influence of a loving nurse. Or wife.

And to all that ask, thanks, yes I am fine. In the spirit...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

so many plans, so little time

Adopting the mantra of size matters to motorcycles, whatever happened to the small bikes? When I started riding 250cc was the norm, and my first CB350 Honda was used for touring-take that Gold Wingers! The British believed 650cc was the biggest any engine should be, and the Americans quoted theirs in cubic inches-all the way to 74! That was big. Also proving bigger isn't necessarily better. But then Honda dropped the bomb-reluctantly at first, with their 750, when they were afraid no one would want a big bike, having made history with 50cc rides, not even calling them motorcycles, but Hondas. Then the 903cc Z-1, and today it takes 1800cc with six cylinders to haul all the bike and junk we think we need to ride. But the one thing that didn't increase with size was the fun, for fun cannot be measured in cc's, but in the ride.

I have two friends who are border line insane when it comes to scheduling. They can tell you what time and with who lunch is with in six months. How much time they have with their wives-after checking her schedule, and every day is planned. A major event can be waiting an extra ten minutes to be seated, but usually they have called ahead. Not a hair out of place, nor appointment, and heaven help the fool who messes with their i-phone. Time rules them, they just don't know it. And they go through life shaking their heads in amazement at people like me, who have learned flexibility. And the ability to adjust. No fun, no freedom. How can they enjoy the ride? Do they ever wonder where that road goes? Or do they just never wander?

I blame it on riding, or more precisely the weather. Gonna rain to the north, go south. High heat in the desert, mountains here I come. We deal with the conditions, rather than let them deal with us. But sometimes you have to endure the heat, or rain, or health risk, and you adjust. Not just that time, but all the following events. The rainbows always appear after the storm.

When I was Life Flighted from Durango this summer, it was not part of our plans. And Theresa had to cancel three weeks of reservations between Wisconsin and California. We had to yield to the situation, but really we were yielding to God. Who, as usual was right on when He said "I know the plans I have for you." So we followed His lead, never questioning why, or how come us, but let Him lead. And even while in the events while they were unfolding, we found peace. I finally came to the point while rehabbing that I couldn't look ahead, I was totally consumed with right now. And if I can't handle right now, how can I handle tomorrow? Or next week? It took trusting God, and letting the Holy Spirit guide us. And I see a time when the church, and other organized institutions will be shaken, and even follow God or be wiped out. We will all be given the opportunity to trust God. So heed the words of Jesus now-pick up your cross and follow Him. You may have to give something up, but the rewards are life changing, and life saving. And it is your choice, as an individual, not a church, club, family, or i-phone appointment. It is between you and God.

So learn from Honda, enjoy the small things, but anticipate even bigger things. God tells us if we fail the small things, there are no bigger blessings. Don't be too big for a 500, enjoy the ride. Bigger means more weight, more money, more responsibility. Enjoy what God is giving you. Don't let your best rides be memories, enjoy the ride today. And if your schedule is dictating your life, toss it. Gain a freedom in Christ that allows for errors. Yours. All time doesn't need to be accounted for. God isn't your boss who demands an accounting of your day. Did the disciples carry Daytimers? Did Jesus? He was never late, but always on time. Would a bigger ride have gotten Him there sooner?

Trust God today. What is change and flexibility to us in His plan for us. NO plan b as some ascribe too, He knows, so doesn't have to have a back-up plan. Trust Him and watch You wouldn't need a suspension if there were no bumps in the road. Let God plan your ride in life, ditch the calendar, and go with Him. Open heart surgery was not in our vacation plans, but God knew, and had it all worked out. Better than AAA let Him plan your route. Your job is to follow it and enjoy the ride. Just for the fun of it. My heart and schedule literally are open to Jesus-is yours?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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do you remember no shoes on the gym floor?

Because the future seems so bleak anymore, we tend to look back to the "good old days." And although I have heard the term used by many people, it seems to mean another time or something different to each of us. To those starting a career, it is the college days, to those starting a family being single, and to those nearing retirement it means when they were just starting out, before life and reality had shattered all their hopes and dreams. But to me it means something different, which may be the embodiment of it all-looking back to a time when things were simpler, before life had interfered with our plans. Before we knew it all, but thought we did. And now feel threatened by those who think they do now. And the cycle goes on...and on... and on...

To me much of it is reflected in old cars and motorcycles. It is hard for me to watch as some young guy gets excited about a car from the seventies-I was there, couldn't afford them then either. And they were not the cars I lusted for in the sixties. Or watching as TV shows try to tell me what the styles were then-I was there. To me, the perfect outfit for girls is still a skirt, sweater, knee socks, and saddle shoes. Notice I said girls not women, not important why this outfit-those were the good old days. When you kept your cootie shots handy, just in case you were caught talking to one. Did girls ever have shots against boys? It was a general understanding you only got cooties from girls. Still not sure what a cootie is. But going to Hanford back in May to a vintage bike show reminded me the good old days were not that far away, and as I looked at vintage motorcycles from the seventies, I was on one myself, I didn't feel old, nor did the memories. But all the guys my age seemed to age-I wonder how I looked to them? How many of us were there searching for the good old days, or were still caught in their time warp? Time and technology have moved on-with old memories filling the gap left by the refusal to participate in progress.

I'll never know, it is one of those esoteric thoughts for a rainy night, when listening to the thunder takes you back to being a kid, enjoying the show of noise and light, but secretly scared it might strike too close to home. But reliving old memories, meeting old guys, and making new friends and memories keeps me going. So many conversations start with "remember when..." and although your audience appears to be listening, he is remembering when in his own memory. Mention the first Z-1, and five guys will give you five memories. And that is how it should be-personal. With each story the ride getting faster, the road narrower, and the thrills scarier. With the ones ending with "I'll never do that again," leaving you wishing for just one more chance at youth now that you can handle the fear. It has been said youth is wasted on the young, which has to be better than old age wasted on the old. Now as I approach older-but not grown up, I look back differently. Same memories, but from an older and not necessarily wiser perspective. Safe in a place where reality comes in second to bench racing. We were all older, faster, wiser, and more fearless back then. Where truth is mixed with perception, truth coming in second. A distant second for some.

During my recent open heart surgery we heard from many people. some I haven't seen in 40 years, but can remember the same good times. And when I meet fellow Christians from 35 years ago, we share testimonies of God working in our lives. But too few only have the good old days, as life interfered and God was put on hold. There were careers, families, and life in general. And neglecting the very one who had given them life seemed to be the first thing to go. It hurts, me and them, as they missed out on life with God, and it can be lonely since they are so out of fellowship. Even worse when it is a friend you looked up to, and has back slidden. It all comes down to a choice to follow Jesus or your own ambitions-how thankful I am I have stuck with Jesus. Celebrating my 38th summer with Him, every day is the good old days. And not because only of looking back on great memories-not necessarily good ones, but how He took us through, and giving us a hope and a future because of Him. Which is sorely missing from those who chose to go their own way. But it's not too late.

You see Jesus never left us, we left Him. He is still right there, the key word is repent. Turn from the world, and return to God. For some the turn is a U-turn, for others just getting both feet on the path. But God knows, and provides the way. Jesus. Just call out to Him, tell Him you want the good old days to be today. Then trust and obey. Watch as your career gets jump started, your family comes to life, and the blessings flow. Where instead of "good Lord it's morning," it's "good morning Lord!" And watch as the memories grow, and each day gives you hope for tomorrow. When you meet an old friend you don't have to travel back years to share God, but it is fresh and new. Each day having new memories awaiting you-don't miss them!

The good old days are here now. Don't let them pass you by. Your new bike may be faster, but never as fast as your first 900. Or 650, or 750. The brands don't matter, or even the size. My 350 was fast enough, until.... And even though skirts and sweaters are out, your wife still looks good as ever, your love has never gone out of style. Remind her-don't go back to high school to remember how good she looked. Enjoy now. And Jesus-the same as always. Loving, kind, and patient. Waiting for you-make Him Lord again today. If you have waited at all, that's way too long. These are the good old days.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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I miss America-the trains

I still love trains, in fact during rest time during rehab I read a great magazine about the classic trains from the 30-50's, which all finally went away in the 60's. Lots of vintage photos, stirring the memory. Great engines, lots of American made freight being moved, and millions of commuters, and travelers enjoying the dining car with the crisp white table cloths. A time when rail travel ruled, planes were still to expensive, and you still need a way to and from the airport. A day when REA-Railway Express Agency ruled in these pre-UPS/FEDEX competition days. Engineers, conductors, and station masters. Stuff we watched as kids, and then played with at home with our Lionels, before HO took over. Great days that sadly are gone.

When coming home on I-40, the interstate version of Route 66, you follow lots of train tracks. Leaving Kingman, a hub, the trains dot the landscape for hundreds of miles. But there is something different about them. One I can't remember any passenger trains, and there are no more cabooses on the freight trains. But even stranger-no box cars, and very few tank cars. Coal cars back east, but no box cars there either. They are all piggyback with shipping containers. And after watching for awhile, it dawned on me, these are not American made goods. They are all imported, mostly from China. Perhaps the last vestige of transportation has been abducted by the Chinese. On the way to Wal-Mart, a leisure activity of the Chinese government. Remember when they too used to brag about all American made products?

Which tells us more about the US of A and ourselves than we care to admit. We have become discount price driven, as opposed to quality driven. Price rules. We no longer lead, we are a colony of foreign made goods. Which explains all the empty factories, and all the unemployed and displaced workers. Leaving lesser goods at a discounted price for those who can still afford to shop at Wal-Mart, and others like them. And a steady and permanent erosion of America-and its values. A lowering of standards, then a plethora of rules, and finally trying to legislate morality-even invading our homes as courts now tell families how to raise their children-or grandchildren, or foster children. What happened to our morals? Did we sell them out too?

Jesus tells us a little leaven goes through the whole loaf, leaven representing sin. And it has permeated our country and society. Even in our churches, pastors have adopted programs and studies based on man's books, rather than teaching scripture. Giving up morals for social morays of the day. Trendy. Coexist-don't make me puke. Compromise ruins all-now that's coexistence. Lower the standard enough, and all will hit it. Trying to teach people to become better people on the outside, rather than a change from the inside. Simply put-without a change of heart, there is no change of actions-or attitudes. So if the churches won't do it, where do we turn?

First there are many churches that do-thankfully they have not succumbed to humanism. But first turn to God. Why turn to man who is broke and weak when you need money and strength? Go directly to God, who is available 24/7, never sleeps, and has only your best interest in mind. No religion, no rules, no club to join-just love. And as you find your heart changing to Him, you find a joy that goes way beyond emotions. A security way beyond riches, and a hope a future. But it takes trusting God. And we don't trust someone we don't know-hey I know lots of people I still don't trust. But God is faithful-give Him a chance.

Think of this next time you see a train. Each container car represents a job lost, a family disrupted, and a life interrupted. Turn to God before you end up like one of the cars, and its cargo. Jesus loves you-in fact scripture tells us His train fills the temple. Pardon my pun.

I miss America. Don't wait until it is too late and miss God. Today could be the day of your salvation. God bless America-but America-LET'S BLESS GOD!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

baby, you can't drive your car

After 54 days outside of So Cal, I had gotten used to different types of driving. True, most of my time was spent in the back seat of a rented Toyota, due to my surgery, but we still experienced a strange phenomena-courtesy! People would wave you to go first. Very few cell phone ingrates-although one is too many, and turn signals used when turning. Which as we got closer to So Cal evaporated-the true line of demarcation was Barstow. Could Barstow really be the edge of civilization? Sadly now that I am back almost two weeks, I have gotten used to California's driving habits, and will probably revert to some myself.

Some of the unique California habits are found on the freeway, where some mindless twit will be going 45-50, while texting. In the fast lane. And if you honk, still has the manual dexterity to show you who is number one. I saw a shirt I would like to wear while riding, just to get their attention, "honk if you have never seen a gun fired from a motorcycle!" Sadly they might not get it, the words are spelled correctly, not txts. Another habit is driving for miles with your turn signal on, impeding traffic is all other lanes who wish to pass, but aren't sure when or if you are going to turn. Almost a guarantee, go to pass, this yuck will cut you off-never looking up. Which goes along with the unwritten law about turn signals-when used they mean look out, I am about to turn without looking. It is like just the signal makes them invincible, but not invisible. Again, honk to be reminded of who is #1!

The old joke about no one walking in California is personified in parking lots. I watch as cars circle the lots looking for a space closer to the store. Maybe the extra 20 feet of walking will adversely affect those in their $150 walking shoes. And then worse, if they spot someone who may be leaving, will position themselves in the middle of the lane, and block traffic both ways while waiting. Usually while a better space becomes available, which now no one can get to. Which answers the age old question, how do you blind a soccer mom? Put a windshield in front of her! And the true test of determining where you learned to drive-waiting until the last minute to apply the brakes. Both rude, stupid, and hard on the brakes. Did none of these anticipate stopping? Not if a parking space opens up! I guess you have to protect that last part of what is "your" road. Finally, for you brave ones, look in your rear view mirror. Drafting works in NASCAR, no reason anyone should cling to your rear bumper, particularly those under the influence of kids. Who bought the safest mini-van to protect them. We can build better cars-can we improve upon the driver?

Sadly we all drive according to our own rules. I blame the DMV-somebody had to pass these idiots! And to me it has helped society erode whatever evidence of goodness and kindness we have left. Thankfully God hasn't forgotten, who is good and kind, but today it is so rare we seem to only see it via miracles. But that also gives us more time to see God's love. We decided to drive back from Albuquerque, and were OK with the $250 drop off fee-still cheaper than flying, even when figuring gas, food, and motels. But upon arrival, the decided to waive the fee, as a kindness due to our situation-without asking! And we were to see this kindness repeated over and over, from restaurants to bike shops. We were shown to what to us were unusual kindnesses-maybe an example we can learn from. Blessing someone-and remembering that when we do, that we are blessed more. A Biblical principal lost in our "all about world." If you want a blessing, bless someone.

It is OK to hold a door for others. To let someone with a few items in front of you in line. To give up that precious parking space-even cancelling your turn signal would be a blessing. And if these things are too hard for your all important daily routine, just try smiling. It can light up a dark room-and at the least make them wonder what you are up to. Then tell them how God has blessed you-even a smile can show the love of God.

So don't delay. Back in 1955, James Dean, the coolest before Steve McQueen arrived-both Triumph riders, made a Public Service Ad about traffic safety. "Drive safe-the life you safe may be my own," he said. Prophetically he died before it aired, when a car turned in front of him. In where, you guessed it, California.

Trust Jesus today, the life He saves may be your own. Pray for the one who cuts you off, or annoys you. If God can change a heart like yours, imagine what He can do for someone not as fortunate as you! Now that's a miracle!

Kindness and goodness-the fruit of the spirit!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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test results

We were buying some items for a trip a few years back when the cashier told me my license had expired-the state had not notified me. So getting a temp before we left-a permit, upon return from our 7500 mile ride I took the test-and failed! Like many other experienced riders, I had found if you ride like they say-you'll crash. So after explaining my last two weeks ride to the DMV woman, she suggested I sit at her desk and take the test again. She disappeared for a few minutes, conveniently, leaving the answers in plain view for me. And she was pleased when I only got a 100! It seems passing the test was different then real life, and after 35 years she figured I may have some experience. She knew the real test was could I ride-not pass tests.

After my open heart surgery I had an infectious disease doctor, Dr. Ross, and Dr. Walinsky who operated on me. Both got the same lab results, with Dr. Ross's advice different. His was a purely analytical approach, do this to get back within the boundaries, while Dr. Walinsky was more concerned about my reactions after surgery. Both right, but both different, and both concerned for my well being. Sorta like the law vs. the spirit-both right, but one gave me a freedom based on background, while one was based on facts and figures-very impersonal. Life in both cases was the objective.

Jesus tells us the law is death, while the spirit gives life. He also tells us that He fulfilled the law!

And He desires we live in the spirit-which gives freedom! It is like a man I once met, who was trying to get closer to God. He read the Bible more, did more studies, prayed more, and was frustrated after 18 months. If only he would have let the spirit guide him. After we talked, he realized he wasn't trusting God, but doing what he felt would make God like him more. You see you cannot earn God's grace, nor make Him love you more. And it is the spirit that reveals all the mysteries of God. Not study, but spending time with God. Which will include God. You cannot do things to make Him give you favor, but you can let Him guide your life by the Holy Spirit! Grace is truly about God, and His grace does not need us. It is not dependent on our participation-it is a gift that cannot be earned. He loves us the same while still being a sinner, yet we try to impress Him. He calls it pride, and it stands between us and Him. And God wants nothing to get between us!

Give it over to God today. Trust Him. Because He is trustworthy. He sees you as you are, and takes all things into consideration. When He says all things work together, he means all! Not just what we think is convenient for us. He is always there, has the right answers, and it all will work out for us. If we are obedient. So quit arguing with God, and desire to come to a point in your prayer life where it is all thanksgiving. For when you truly trust Him, you will ask no more-only praise Him and worship Him. Talk with Him today, and give Him a chance to answer. You may find that just like the DMV woman, the answers are right in front of you, all you need to do is trust.

I think that deserves a ride, don't you?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the smiling doctor is Dr. Peter Walinsky-the best!

summer vacation, part 4-of motorcycles, memories, and Moses

It looks like I will be back riding next week. And hopefully riding more bikes from Triumph's Press Fleet by Labor Day. After eight long weeks, riding again will be reality. Something that at one time I could never imagine doing again, then told it would take months, I shall be doing in weeks. A passion for riding that God has given me will be fulfilled, all but closing out the emotional and physical healing since my surgery. Another miracle in a long list of them.

Riding so many different bikes, when asked by someone who hasn't ridden that model, I have to try and describe it to them. It handles like, is faster than, has better brakes, and it is all relative to what they may have ridden. And they can only imagine, since they haven't experienced them. They are left up to their own devices of what they must be like, but fall short of the true experience-of really having ridden. How many times have I heard friends describe me riding a bike that is yet unavailable to the public, like they rode it themselves, quickly changing their tune when asked if they rode it. Unless you have ridden it, it is just hearsay. Even courts won't admit that.

Since my open heart surgery, I have heard various heart and arterial procedures described as open heart. I had been warned by a doctor and a nurse that many would do this, and not even realize they were-some who even have only had stints replaced think that they have had open heart. And a man I met last night told me about his open heart surgery, only to have had a pacemaker installed. Still serious, but not open heart. At least to those in the cardiac profession. So when I met a young man yesterday, who was glad to see me, he told me he knew many who had open heart surgery, and knew quite a bit about it. And as he rambled, he sounded foolish. So I stopped him-abruptly, and told him I really did have open heart surgery, and although knew little about it, would he like to see my scar? I had been there-not sure where he had been. And then he left, I guess I'll never know. It's like learning about LA from a news report, or seeing a post card. You have to go there to experience it.

Of late I have begun to feel like Moses. When he came off the mountain after time with God, he was faced with trying to describe something infinite in finite terms. No way anyone could know what he had been through, God kept it that way, very personal between the two of them. And while in a coma, and after, God has taken me to very intimate, personal places with Him. Things I cannot describe, like the peace He gave me. Way beyond euphoria, way beyond emotions, I was totally in His love. And this wasn't even heaven, as one time I asked if I was still alive, and when He answered yes, blew my mind of what heaven would be. I have tried to even rethink the thoughts, but I cannot. God gave me this time for me-and doesn't want me to share it with anyone else but Him-so He made it that personal. He even fulfills scripture in this when He says "eye has not seen, no ear heard, nor mind imagined the things of God." And I have lived this scripture, with a jealous God who doesn't want to share me with things of the world. He wants nothing to come between us. And like He took Moses up on the mountain so they could be alone without interference, He took me in the spirit while in a coma and showed me love-in a place where no one would bother us. That's love.

But unlike where He gave Moses His law written on tablets of stone, He wrote on my heart. And left me with a scar if anyone doubts. But also left His unique nail pierced handprint on my heart that no one else can see-our time together was that special. Truly my surgery was open heart-physically and spiritually.

Trust God today. Pick up your cross and follow Him. It takes a sacrifice, but the rewards are indescribable. You see if could describe them, it wouldn't be God. Joy unspeakable and full of glory.

Just you and Jesus. And He offers it to all His children, who have earned the right by accepting Jesus. Don't wait for surgery-His offer is available now-let's pray.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

summer vacation, part 3-hall of fame ministers

In Matthew 25 Jesus confronts church people, who claim they ministered to Him. But in effect they only did things to draw attention to themselves. True ministry is of God, about God, and involves God-sometimes you are just there. And just like Jesus did, it always points to God. For an example, these lying evangelists who desire of you to get blessed-grace is about Jesus, and not you-it is what He did and who He is-not you. You cannot earn or persuade God. It wouldn't be grace. And God, true to His word, tells us ALL things work together for the glory of God-not just good or convenient or even just involving Christians. So here we go, some of those involved, who God allowed to bless us-working independently but together with God's perfect plan. Prepare to be amazed.

First-this is all about Jesus, Theresa and I were just characters. For God's glory and our benefit. And all these people didn't act on their own, but under God's guidance, even though they may not know it or admit it. God truly has things under control, and orders our steps.

Our friend Dal Mize, our first pastor, great friend, and like a dad to us. We were staying with him in Durango, and he kept us calm, and focused in the face of danger. He told me many times, "I am here for Theresa, don't worry," and I didn't. How many 76 year olds do you know who will drive 250 miles at night, to take your wife to meet you after Life flight has landed? God knew-and so do we.

Lucia, Theresa's sister, although they had hadn't talked in years, when her sister called, flew to Albuquerque to assist. And her other sisters paid for the plane flight. Lucia sat with her and consoled, prayed, and loved on her throughout the whole ordeal. Going way beyond anything you could have done on her own. I hope she was as blessed as we were-even more.

My sons, Andrew, who was stuck home in bed, and then had shoulder surgery. He sent out prayer requests and updates, and helped Theresa handle all the business at home. And now is closer to God than ever-I can never say how proud I am of him.

Christopher, who got back from a gig in Spain, and flew to see me. He gave me strength and aided his mom. Debbie, one of my nurses, paid us the ultimate compliment, "your son loves you very much." A special thanks to Jessica, who selflessly paid for his flight.

Walt and Pat, who owned the home we stayed at for a month in Rio Rancho. We never met them, and they were so glad to have us stay there-reminding us it was God's house, and to be blessed. We still are. And Pete and Shirley, their neighbors, who were there when needed. A big thanks!

To PJ who owns PJ's Triumph, and who I have known casually for about six years. When he saw me with my heart pillow, asked who was my surgeon. When I told him, he replied, "Peter is my best friend, and neighbor. He told me all about you-said it was the hardest surgery he ever performed." Then told me to hang out whenever I wanted at the shop, and when cleared to ride, he would loan me a bike. And to Aaron and Dylan who showed great friendship, and compassion to us. Just curious, what are the chance of Peter and PJ being best friends, and coming together under these circumstances in a city of 625,000? A cardiologist and a biker? IN God's plan-100%!

To Peter our cardiologist, head of cardiology at Presbyterian. God had the best surgeon, the best nurses and staff, and had everything under control.

Dalana, our friend who works for Hilton, who got us a room under their Friends and Family deal the last two nights before we got home. To Tina in Phoenix, who put us on a prayer list, that was read in Tennessee, who called her friend in Albuquerque who brought meals-Jan. Whose friend Brandy brought us two other meals, and who we got to minister to about her son. Still doubt in miracles?

To all the folks at Monroe's who fussed over us, and other places we ate who made sure we were fed correctly. To my first co-worker in New Mexico from 1975, who walked by me in Santa Fe Harley-and we got to visit-he is the Sales Manager. Coincidence? After over 30 years?

I have always said if you need something done, ask a biker. But before we could, Ned told Ken they would drive to Durango to pick up my bike and trailer it back. Cool, you say. They are in Black Sheep, Harley Davidsons for Christ, and I ride a Triumph! Talk about Good Samaritans! A true example of true ministry, if you see a need fill it. And they did in love. Good thing God isn't brand specific. How do you ever thank someone for something like that? Thanks guys-you rock.

To all Black Sheep who donated money? Tears of thanks.

To Melissa who acted as our "attorney" in our absence. It's time I rethink my views of attorneys. You and your bosses are one of a kind.

To all those who fed us, Glen and Penny, Cathy and Jim, Nick, Ellen, and so many others-we never ate alone.

I could go on, but like John says, if all the things Jesus did were written, no library could hold them. In our lives, it is time for that new library.

Special thanks to the pastors and staff at Maranatha, and Calvary Chapel Escondido. Way beyond the call-what example you set to the community at large. To the Kollasch family-we can never thank you enough. True ministry and a true witness of Jesus Christ.

Hebrews 13 is the faith hall of fame, this is mine. Take some time to thank God today, and set up your own hall. Worship Jesus like never before. And watch as you become alive in the scriptures-may He find favor in all you do.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

if you weren't mentioned, we still thank you-and more importantly God knows!

summer vacation, part 2-the miracles

We looked forward to August 1st with great excitement, for it was the day that Peter, my cardiologist was to give me my final release. I was feeling great, and must admit I liked hearing how well I looked and was doing, but it was his words that would allow us to come home. So my prayer was simple, that he would have to look at the scars to believe I had had open heart surgery. A big request from a man who only three weeks earlier had to be taught to swallow, and couldn't lift a spoon to feed himself. Who had no regimen for rehab, just keeping me alive was the regimen. Whose wife had stayed by his side every step of the way, and been through more than I had. Who had faced death, but not alone. A lot to ask, but remember who my God is.

It was five weeks after my surgery, and we were greeted by Dr. Mayberry, whose opening line was, "if it wasn't for the picc lines, I never would have known you had surgery!" Prayer answered, another miracle. And Peter echoed the same thoughts. This from a man who said the three words that best described me were "dead, dead, dead." But it got better, as after my examination, I was released to drive, and to resume a normal life. No restrictions, just an improved diet. What usually takes months, had taken days or weeks. God's healing schedule was far superior. Peter is a great surgeon, but I had the greatest physician-Jesus. Amazing. He even commented to me, how God had brought me this far, keep up the good work. And I only needed to be checked every six months! But I still had to wait to ride, because of being on Coumadin, and he was afraid if I fell I would bleed to death. Another month! I can remember when I thought I would never ride again!

But God's healing was still miraculous to me, on many levels. It was only after we got home and people saw I wasn't in a wheelchair, I could walk, and saw my scar that God showed me one evening His love in a special way. I had picked up my cross and followed Him during this whole event, and He told me to continue following Jesus, never losing sight of the cross. Very few had seen what I had endured, and we neglect to see what Jesus endured for us. As Christians, we like to go straight to the empty tomb, but the victory was won at the cross. And we don't want to visit there, because it was horrible what Jesus endured for us. He reminded me NO Easter without Good Friday. And I still had to carry my cross and follow, which I did going way beyond faith, but had done by obedience. I trusted God with no reservations, and still do. He is my savior and the gospel I live, not my own when the situations fit my plans. One man had told me I had walked through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and was amazed when I told him no, I had been carried through the Valley!

And an aspect of prayer I would like you to consider. WE heard from people all over the world, and from friends we had lost contact with for over 25 years. They all were praying. Amazing. But the neat thing was this had all happened so fast, that even before we could pray, or ask for prayer, God had set everything in motion. He later told me He had people pray for me, so they could be part off my miraculous healing-a chance for Him to show His love and greatness, and them to be blessed. This whole thing was not about us, but about Jesus Christ-never think different.

As you read the New Testament, Jesus healed many people. He dealt with them on a spiritual level, but always gave them something physical to show people the difference. To remind them. I deal with many who have scars that don't show, but never lead them to anyone without the nail scars in His hands. My scar-all 12 inches and 26 staples is there to show how far I have come, or better yet how far Jesus has taken me. The attached image is the day after surgery. I wear my scar with great joy, as it was paid for with a price, and a love that no man can offer. I am a miracle-not an invalid.

Trust God today. Hear His voice and obey. Never put down your cross. Celebrate the Good Friday you may be enduring. Easter is coming, and it is all the more precious when you celebrate with the one who is the reason-Jesus Christ. Let Him show you His hands-then decide.

Tomorrow the people God used to be and bring His miracles. Looks like I will be riding within two weeks!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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our summer vacation-part 1

You might say that Theresa and I were more than ready for vacation this year. We were planning on going up to Lake Superior in Wisconsin, and had planned a great ride. It had been a tough year. In the first six months we had a house fire, a lecherous contractor suing us for non-payment of work he didn't perform, Andrew was in a career ending motorcycle accident and had to have his shoulder screwed together, Christopher was still out of work, and my dad died on Cinco de Mayo. Little did we know of what was ahead-but God did and had prepared the way.

The short answer about our vacation is I tell people I had a helicopter ride from Durango to Albuquerque. The long answer is it was on Flight for Life. Our trip started out by me being stung by a bee-again, but due to meds I was on for a misdiagnosed pinched nerve, no anaphylactic shock and we rode on. But by the end of day two in 100 degree heat, and over 800 miles, I was in horrible pain, so spent the next afternoon in Urgent Care in Durango. The next morning they called saying my kidneys were below 50%, so off to the ER at Mercy Hospital in Durango. Where I was life flighted from. I thought I had only been there 2 hours, it was really two days. They found I had a staph infection throughout my whole body, and my pericardial sac which surrounds the heart filled with pus. And...my aorta had an aneurism on its back side. And things were about to get worse...only God knew and had made all the right arrangements. I have some insight as to what Joseph and Job may have felt.

Dal, who we were staying with, is like a father to us, and he drove Theresa the 250 miles to Presbyterian Hospital in Albuquerque that night. I had already landed, and no one gave me hope of surviving, one nurse saying "she had never seen anyone so sick and still alive." Dr. Peter Walinsky-the best, was assigned to me, the Chief Surgeon, and wanted to research the case before opening me up. And found there was only one other recorded case of what I had...he later explained this was the toughest operation he had ever performed, and the next thing I knew was waking up 3 1/2 days after surgery. And the great staff at Pres was trying to keep me alive. You see during the operation, things had gotten worse, when Peter touched the aorta, it exploded. It was hard as a rock. Only him not panicking is a panic situation, and the hand of God guiding him kept me alive-you can bleed to death in less than 30 seconds! And when I first met him after the surgery, his opening line was "you should be dead!" And all this time God was reassuring me I wasn't-I knew I was alive-and in His hands. I firmly believe if possible, that if you could see handprints on my heart, they would be of hands with nail pierced holes in them-Jesus held my heart in His hands. It has given me a new perspective of Proverbs 3:5, trust in the Lord with ALL your heart!

All this time I had the peace that surpasses understanding that Jesus promises. And can't recall any of the horrible pain Theresa told me I was in. She was the brave one here, who had to deal with maybe becoming a widow, and making arrangements for cars, housing, and other needs-almost 1000 miles from home. But God had everything under control, and had set things in motion even before we could begin to pray-and the prayers were coming in from around the world-and from least expected places-such is the love of God. But I had a long recovery ahead, with no recovery plan since the nurses had no other case to base me on. What good is rehab if the patient had expired? And without fail, I came in contact with 15-20 doctors and nurses on a one to one basis, and the words were the same-no one expected me to live. From the ultrasound tech, to the surgical nurses-it was a miracle I was alive-I was a miracle! But God knew. And Peter, who when he found out I had a DNR, told me he tore it up, "after all the work I put into you, I'm not giving up on you." And he didn't. Nor did God.

When he saw Theresa after surgery, he threw his hands up, telling her my aorta was destroyed,my pericardial sac was filled with pus, arteries were completely blocked, and my heart had been out of my body for 5 1/2 hours. They could keep me functioning, but couldn't guarantee I would live. Or be without brain damage! He was confident in his work, but after what my body went through, they weren't sure my body could handle it. And all the time Jesus never left me-the peace continued, and so did the miracles. And I continued to sing "bless the Lord all my soul...sing like never before..." And I did.

Tomorrow-the miracles God performed, a miraculous recovery, how not to lose 40 pounds, and the time spent with God. Right now I am getting ready to drive myself for the first time in 60 days!

love with compassion,

Mike

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