I love riding in California's central coast area. Great roads, no people,
and so many ways to choose. I even like Hiway 101, if I need to make time. Yet
so many have missed this area when going from LA to San Francisco, thinking
boring I-5 is the best way to make time. Or even just going to Monterrey, there
are better roads than the 101-or to me even the 1. But you need to get out and
try them-the road you are taking may be OK, but there are better ways to go.
Are you making time, taking your time, or out for a good time?
A few years back we started taking Hwy, 25 into Hollister. A beautiful
2-laner, with 15mph curves and 100mph straights. But a bit desolate-no towns,
gas stations, and sometimes others for over 60 miles. Then we started taking
Indian Valley Road to it, out of San Miguel, and by-passed most of the 101 all
together. Adding 40 miles, and over an hour to the trip, but avoiding
traffic-unless you don't consider cattle and farmers traffic. And still made
good time-even better when you consider the road as the destination. But
although I have told many about these roads, and places to eat, they never try t
hem-in fact it seems they avoid them, and then complain about their ride. Same
old freeway, eat at Denny's, and follow the other riders. When the decision to
make one right hand turn can change their ride, their attitude, and take them
places they only read about-or at least look at the pictures of. Or really
trust the advice, and detour to Parkfield, pop. 37, for a great rancher's
lunch. Meat, potatoes, and lots of them. You will not find any clean boots
here. And yes, bikers are welcome.
These are roads that the locals use, and sadly guys in bike shops don't
know of them-sometimes they are too local. But when you ride, there are always
so many roads, so little time, and you need to decide which road you are going
to take. A decision that will set the tone for your day, and maybe days to
follow.
But who do you trust when asking directions? I have found touring riders
are the best source for good roads-older and experienced riders the best. I
don't mean guys riding full dressers, but the guy with a backpack bungeed on his
high mileage bike, who rides the road for enjoyment, rather than just the
quickest way between two points. For awhile, my walk with God was like that.
Show me the quickest way to heaven. One service a week, and then leave me
alone. I'm OK, and so is the road I was on. Then I started listening to
Jesus, and instead of just reading the word, I asked the spirit to guide me.
And I started going places with God I had never been. Even old roads, familiar
roads became interesting again. And although my destination was still the
same, God gave style to my life, rode with me on the trip, and I began to see
more blessings. To see the miracles that so many pray for, but won't open the
door to their heart when they come knocking.
For many their Christian walk is all about church. That's OK. That is
where Jesus taught. But out on the street, out where life was, He ministered.
We find Him on the road, most of His life, and at places from the lakes, to the
beach. Meeting fisherman as He went, and sitting with sinners at public
places-diners to us. He stopped by parks, and met the people where they were-He
didn't tell them to wait for Him-He went to them, and then said "follow me!"
Sound familiar? And your answer is?
The best roads, best places to eat, and the best blessings are out there.
Missing them? It just may be the road you're on. Try an alternative route
today-start with asking God-it's called prayer. And then follow His directions,
and maybe get involved in a Bible study. Pray with others at lunch. Visit a
hospital, or just meet others as you go. The ministry of just being there is
always looking for new people, you just have to be there-wherever there may be.
But it starts with taking another road, a new way. It starts by trusting God.
And how will you know? It takes your obedience, or you will never know. it
takes following Jesus. So pick up your cross-and follow Him!
How long did it take for you to get saved? See how important obedience
is. Listen now-the road awaits. Start local, and soon the city is local, then
the county, then the state, and finally the US of A. A deeper walk with God
awaits all those who get out and onto the road He shows you. It may be
scary-but hey, I've seen you ride. No fear in riding with Christ. So ask Him
today for direction, then follow it. Back roads await. Less traveled, but more
rewarding. Sit at the counter and listen-get to know people-then comment. Try
the daily special, and the larger portions it comes with. If the cook's name is
on the door, expect the best. You may arrive at your destination a little
later, but it sure beats the hurry up and wait in the motel watching TV trip.
Good food, good times, and a great destination. With the ultimate travel
partner-Jesus. There is always a better way-but His ways will always be the
best. There's this road I know....so take it!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com