not my first choice, but always the right choice

We started the day in the rain in Tulsa. After a short ride on old Route 66, the four of us were cold, wet, and hungry. This was the last Torches to be, and four of us-Joe, Steve, Barr, and Myself had broken from the pack, which we would hook up with again in Branson that night. Joe was a local, and this was our third Torches together, and the guy who Theresa had left in charge of me. A great guy to travel with, and we had each other's backs. Steve I knew from CMA, and Barr had just come back from Iraq, where he had spent the last 18 months trying to build a police department in the Bath province. Needless to say his stories never were shown on network news, the war may have turned out better, and after being with him, the war was somehow closer and realer than CNN led us to believe. Note-we were winning. Joe was leading, despite the fact he had cut off the mufflers on his Shadow, and we made him ride in the back the rest of the way. The noise was unbearable. So through the steady downpour, we followed him onto a gravel parking lot, uneven with lots of puddles, outnumbering the gravel areas, and somehow found ground level enough, and secure enough to park our bikes on. He had mentioned he had never been here, but being a trucker noticed it had a great lot to park in. So the four of us, rain suits, helmets, and all entered into the Hiway Cafe, in Vinita. A small, cinder block building, in the same shape as the parking lot, it was warm inside, and we were greeted by Beverly, who had a coffee pot in each hand, telling us to sit just like we parked, wherever we could. A great sign as my co-riders run a 50-50 blend of caffeine in their veins, and her smiling face, or was it the coffee pots, brightened their day. We took a corner booth, and laid our wet clothes out on two tables nearby, the four of us equivalent to 40 pounds of sand in a five pound back in that booth. Being watched by two even bigger locals, 100 pounds in a five pound bag, in a booth nearby. Now I can't say this was a meal that I would go out of my way to return for, but it was memorable none the less, as it was just what, where, and when it was needed. And even the locals opened up to us, some vets, who thanked us for what we were doing. Even showing pictures of grandkids, and telling us stories about them. We entered empty and cold-but we left full and warm. The timing was even perfect, we were leaving as the local lunch crowd was pouring in, each one saying hello to Beverly, and sitting at their regular station-somehow not giving orders, but somehow Beverly taking them. "My regular" or "the special" being the rule of the day. In a town where Clanton's was only two miles down the road, with much better food, God had given us what we needed, and blessed us with it. The meal we needed. At a place not my first choice, but the perfect place. Goldilocks and friends would have missed it, as it was "too" something for them, not realizing God is always right, and right on time.

Today your storm may not be as wet and wild as ours, but a storm none the less to you. And just like the disciples on the rough sea in the midst of a storm, Jesus is on the way. But you must first recognize Him, then invite Him into your boat-your life, or situation. And you will find He has the same calming effect He did to the waves that day. Or that morning. You see He walked on the waves, and into the boat-didn't rush, or push His way on board. And when He does, the storm ceases, as He takes you through it. The fifth rider in our group that day. The perfect answer, we sometimes forget to ask.

That morning, the food wasn't the best. The ambiance was old newspapers, and wet floors. Beverly-just say she wasn't Florence Jean Castleberry from Alice. But the Hiway Cafe was the perfect place God wanted us, as we were blessed, and also a blessing. Manna in the form of bacon and eggs, with lots of coffee. Hospitality that overcame any uneven table or dirty fork. Where good morning wasn't a description, but a blessing waiting to be bestowed on you. And what you left with.

As you are getting ready to go out today, don't neglect the blessings before you. The cat you shoo away so she won't get fur on your sweater, or the dog who wants to sit and wag her tail by you. They are signs from God of His love, a simpler type, a friendlier world, where disposition is more important than position. Where a waging tail is better than a wagging tongue. And a smile with greasy eggs, potatoes, and bacon beats no smile with gourmet quality food.

Looking for Jesus-we weren't, but found Him that morning in a cafe in the rain. Doing what He does best-feeding His children. We got hungry again later, but the meal He fed our souls lasted all day, in fact three years later I still recall it. Looking for love in all the wrong places? Try Jesus-in the midst of your storm, the perfect meal for stomach and soul.

Don't forget to leave the tip.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

learning to apply yourself

Years ago at the Durango Tour Rally I met two corporate people from Harley Davidson. Buzz and Barbara-sounds like the captain of the football team and the head cheerleader. Not. The Motor Company had just been bought and they were going to revamp it, and its image. Get riders involved with each other, centered around Harleys. One idea was to start a riders/owners group, which became HOG-Harley Owners Group. Looking back it was interesting how a non-HD rider was asked for input, and despite some of my ideas, HOG flourishes today.

Inspired by HOG, other manufacturers have started similar groups, Triumph's being called RAT-Riders Association of Triumph. Rats and Hogs, some of my best friends, when all we want to do is ride. And in the early years, Triumph had some difficulties. With each new bike purchased, you automatically were a member. As I accumulated bikes, I also accumulated memberships. But not per the RAT president. And finally I called one day, and he confirmed I had owned five Triumphs up until that time. So as a favor, would set me up on a five year subscription-for free, they only gave the first year free at the time. Sounded good to me, until I started receiving five issues of their magazine each month. Instead of five years, I had gotten five memberships. I almost called, but figured, be happy you get the magazine at all. If only they knew me-one Mike can be enough in most cases, here they have five of me, maybe what they don't know won't hurt them.

We love to join things. And when we do, fill out an application. And even churches, with memberships, have you fill one out. Last time I wrote about Calvary Chapel not having membership, an assistant pastor from another denomination called me nasty names-maybe he thought I would join his church by being insulted. Wouldn't you like to see their application. But the application process for membership bothers me, and I can see why some don't join. The last church I joined, once I became a member, wasn't as nice to me as when they were recruiting me. And now I had a financial responsibility-truly membership has its rewards, this just wasn't one of them. And now since they knew about me from the application, the inner circle kept their distance-can't have any of them ex-sinners here, might give us a bad name. They never thought what they were doing to my name, oh well.

Imagine if you would, Jesus trying to join a church. First part, last name first, he could handle, but what about when they asked about his parents. Father-Yahweh. Huh, who does this guy think he is, the son of God? A good Pentecostal church would ask "have you been baptized in the holy spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues." No, not according to scripture, Jesus never spoke in tongues. Sorry, then you aren't saved. How would that make you feel, or Him?

Education background for ministry-no seminary background. Sorry again, we need trained people to teach our children. Other ministries to consider-greeter, no has appearance problem. Can't teach, preach, or greet-no qualifications. How about church cleaning? He emptied the church of thieves and scoundrels one day. Response-we can't have this guy doing this to our membership. These brothers give money tot he church. Hey Jesus, do you have any qualifications that would allow us to let you join our church? Only love, and a perfect record of no sin. Nothing we can use, huh? Thanks, we'll get back to you. And you wonder why so many churches are hurting today, Jesus can't meet their standards-religious standards. Good thing they didn't ask for references. Fisherman, anarchists, taxman, and at least here's one good reference-this guy Judas is a trained money handler. Poor Jesus, trying to be a Christian in a church world. Ever have that problem? And you wonder why some people say no when invited to church?

God's church is much easier. To join you must be saved. Believe in your heart and confess with your mouth that Jesus is the son of God, and you're in. No initiation ceremonies, no questionnaires-just you as you are. Jesus will do the rest. Finances-give with a happy heart, laughing as you do. God doesn't need your money-note I once quit a national position in an international ministry because now that I had a title, I was told I would have to give financially. For many years I had voluntarily, I quit under that command. Next time someone tells you that you can write your own paycheck, remember this.

What if I don't believe like you do? You will, as we leave opinions out-and try to be like God, instead of making Him like us. He changes hearts, and it is a relationship-not a religion. Saved, you're part of the family. No dues, no envelopes, no prying questions. Just an encouragement to get involved, and grow in Jesus.

And unlike a RAT, no duplicate subscriptions. And I don't have to ride-although I can't see why you wouldn't want to. And unlike HOG, everything HD doesn't cost a Hundred Dollars. Freedom to be yourself, ride what you want, to grow in God, and go to heaven.

And you mean you haven't given your life to Jesus? Why? His club has no bounds-only love. You see while others were doing paperwork, He was with the woman at the well. Just imagine if she had to apply for her healing? Are you making others you meet apply for God's love? Show it free. Dues are already paid up in full. Be a great example of God's church, and you will never have to have a membership drive. Remember, just like in Acts-He will add to your numbers daily. Which leave more time to love-and ride. Now that's a club I'm glad I belong to. Membership does have its benefits.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

reconstructive surgery

HEADLINE-Automotive News, week of 11-09-09. "Ford and GM Idle Plants Due to Transmission Plant Strike in India." Now reread it again, just to get the impact. India, a third world country, the country that worships cows, and believes in reincarnation, a nation that except for North Korea hates and persecutes Christians more than any other nation in the world, is effectively shutting down our US car factories, we are waiting on parts. From them, because of a cost savings in having them built over there. And you notice I didn't say American car plants, as any vehicle manufactured from Canada to Mexico is considered to be American built. All those Chrysler mini vans-Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The new Camaro, same thing. Chevy and Ford trucks and cars-Mexico. And here is a pop quiz. What car made in the US has the most US made parts in it? If you answered the Nissan Altima you are correct. A Japanese car, made in Tennessee. Just slightly, 600 miles south of Detroit, once known as the Motor City, aka Motown, aka the auto capital of the world. Detroit, where unemployment is now over 30%, and the average house selling there this year is $7000! Not a misprint. And we all stand by and shake our heads and wonder, that this couldn't be happening to us, as GM announces that they built more Buicks in China than the US last year, and that they are thinking of shutting down our US factory and importing Buicks from China. Wouldn't you really rather have a Buick-built in the USA?

You see there are many places in the US where the bus doesn't stop anymore. We have exported our strengths, our heritage, and become a slave, both monetarily and emotionally to others. We have lost who we are. And we wonder, how did we get there from here? And how do we get back?

Recently I have run into two friends who have had knee reconstruction for the second time. The replacement parts wore out, and to save the knees, have to be rebuilt. Inconvenience, sure-but when done, better than new-until they wear out again. Promised that they will be as good as new-again.

Many Christians live their lives like that. They have the attitude that "that will never happen to me." You see it's only a glass of wine, I quit before I get a buzz. How do you know? Or it's only a friendly flirt, then a latte at Starbucks, then a kiss, and you get the picture. It's only an R rating-I can handle all the sex and violence. Yeah, but how about your wife and kids? And it's only the F word-every body says it. No, everyone doesn't! And soon you become a slave to a sin that you thought you could handle, and now it handles you. Hey, it was just a transmission from India. And just like Detroit, you become bankrupt and valueless-lonely and alone. For your shame-which is really pride, keeps you from church and fellowship with other Christians-just the place you need to be. The one place you should be you avoid, and the spiral continues. You go offshore what you should be getting at home.

The Bible tells us to work out our salvation daily, with fear and trembling. It is not advocating works for salvation, or that you must be born again, again and again. It is like an athlete, working out. Staying spiritually in shape by being in the word, going to church, and fellowshipping with other believers. Like Kelly told me last week, he hadn't lifted in a while and was sore when he did again. He hadn't lost his strength, just some muscles needed to be exercised that hadn't been. And it hurt, but he will be ok. God knows we will stumble, and fall. He is there to pick us up and get us going in the right direction. But it takes the first step on our part, and soon, like old knees, or unused muscles, we can function like we should-a new creation in Christ. A healthy creation-one that enjoys all that God has to offer. Anyone not want or need more blessings?

I can see a day coming, when some corporate execs overseas will be discussing locations for new plants. Cheap labor, good resources, and a willing work force. An economy that needs rebuilding. And there is already an infrastructure in place, and they once built cars there. A city called Detroit. I just hope it is soon enough that no one says-where's that? Before you go the way of Detroit-repent. Seek God. Before you encounter someone who says " that guy looks familiar, I can't place him. Didn't he used to go to church here? Wasn't he a Christian?" Change your ways. No one sets out to fail, but if you do, God can do reconstructive surgery on your heart. It could happen to you. Let Jesus happen first. The bus may not stop here anymore, but Jesus still does-in fact He never left.

Welcome back. We missed you. God still loves you. Say, what kind of car do you drive....

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the malachi papers

There is a code among organized crime, that you keep silent. Omerta. Set up as organized families by none other than Charlie "Lucky" Luciano in the 1920's, this organization ran crime throughout the USA under the auspices of La Cosa nostra, la Familia, or the Mafia. And its binding strength was in its silence among its members. They kept their mouths shut, and until 1962 had very few defectors, at least none who lived to tell about it. Today you see t-shirts proclaiming "snitches are a dying breed," but yet that year one man broke the silence. Joe Valachi.

Valachi, pronounced Va-la-chee. His book The Valachi Papers named names, and gave the public a look into organized crime that startled and shook the world-both good and evil. But with the finking on his friends, and family, became an outcast. A wanted man, as no one who betrays another can ever be trusted. He was done with the family at that point, and although they had given him asylum, the Feds had no great love for him either, and definitely not respect. He proved he could not be trusted, and stood a man alone. A snitch, and nobody, from the first grader to the adult likes a snitch. Breaking a trust that can never be repaired. The Valachi Papers told it all.

The last book of the old Testament is Malachi, pronounced Mal-a-ki. But today we will have it rhyme with Valachi, for it is another book, revealing truth. Malachi means messenger, and as God's messenger was a prophet who told some startling truths about men, and man. The Jews at this time, bout 440BC, were in a religious malaise. God had not shown up as promised, yet, to give them their kingdom, and they doubted His love for them. They had shunned His justice, and and didn't take the law seriously. Not getting their way, they began to mock Him, where is the God of justice?
The answer, He is coming, but first to judge, then to refine like fire. As Israel had turned their backs on Him, He advised only through repentance would they return to Him. And they better do it before the great day of the Lord comes, to be spared. But mercifully, in His love, God didn't name names. Too much paperwork. So He condemned all that were in sin. Because all are, and have fallen short. He was to the point, He hates divorce. Look what it does to families, churches, societies, and economies. He accused them of not keeping their commitment with their tithes. Paying taxes to the governments, but cheating God. And yet fully expecting God to honor them! And getting madder when He didn't. Telling them not to gossip, and to show love instead of hate, or harshness. Always reminding them of a coming judgment, and also of a messiah to rescue them from it.

God is a God of mercy-not getting what we deserve. And for Him to end this paper with a promise, that if fathers and children do not reunite, as unto Him, He will strike them with a curse. Ending the Old Testament-or the law-some 400 years before Jesus. And after waiting 400 years for their savior, didn't recognize Him when He arrived. They wanted relief from a government, when God sent His son, Jesus, to free them from their sins. How different the New Testament ends with a promise of life-free from the curse.

Joe Valachi's confessions never freed him from his sins. In fact they turned even his closest associates against him. Forced to live in a witness protection system, trusting the men who had cheated on for years to protect him. Living in a fear of what if they ratted him out? Where could he turn? Only to God, whom he should have turned in the first place.

God's protection program is different. He forgives publicly all your sins, and we need to hide from no man. Jesus tells us he who is free is free indeed, and no monies from book tours, or interviews can make you freer. Only His forgiveness. And He also gives grace-getting what we don't deserve, eternal life. All the things promised the Jews, but more personal-coming in the form of a person, instead of a society or government. Today you will be faced with a decision of where to turn in your sin. To God, and be forgiven-the spirit gives life, or the law-which brings death. Should be an easy decision. Don't be hard hearted like the Israelites, seek God. Let Him heal your divorce, repair your finances, and heal your body. Be under God's witness protection program when the judgment comes.

Malachi or Valachi. Two messengers, two papers, two men. One chose God, the other still hides from Him. Numbers tells us our sin will find us out. Isn't it refreshing to have God forgive and forget it? Now, why can't you? The gospel of Jesus Christ-good news to all who receive it! Read all about it!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

ps-available in paperback too!

old school lessons taught in preschool

This is for all of you who thought one more turn of the wrench will secure the bolt only to find it spinning freely. And then decided to over tighten the next one, and end up with pieces in your hand. And to those of us who marvel at how much faster oil runs out the bottom with no drain plug than you can can pour it in the top, and how no pan under it to catch it only increases that velocity, you are not alone. Long before AC/DC's song Highway to Hell, we were told that the road to hell is paved with good intentions. Congratulations to those of us who are living proof.

We are not a small group, as I have had trained technicians pour 24 quarts of oil in a V-8, not realizing the extra 18 quarts would cause a static lock up condition, bending rods. Physics lesson for the day-gasses and solids will compress, liquids don't. That is why hydraulics work so well. I have also been with guys who back when old school was preschool, not know about metric. 3.5 litres meant gallons to them, their helper even agreed. See story on 24 quart tech. I have also known men who run their bikes with one less quart than recommended. Saves wear and tear on oil pump. Their bike isn't the only thing a quart low. And I have also seen younger riders, looking to save weight-obviously no Harley owner, being told the reason the tire weighs so much is because it has 35 pounds in it. So they release the psi to 25 or 30 to save weight. And then wonder why their bike shakes in the corner. Chico Marx's advice works well here, "why don't you drill a hole in your head and let the sap run out!"

My family has learned that when dad fixes something, hide. Then get ready to visit urgent care. Which makes me wonder when I have finished fixing something, why do I have all these extra parts? But am missing pieces from my fingers? Think of the money and weight saving they could achieve by following my directions!

I have heard some interesting stories from churches, too. My favorite, God helps those who help themselves, well it just ain't in the Bible. Interestingly enough, Psalm 118:8 tells us to trust God and not princes. And it is conveniently the middle verse in the Bible. And more interestingly there are 1188 verses before it, and 1188 after it. And no extra parts left off.

So many people feel the need to advise God in their situation, as if God took a break from them. Aren't you glad He doesn't? Constantly seeking an answer, but never allowing God to get a word in edgewise. Listening, the most important part of prayer. And they wonder why they don't hear from God when their line is always busy. Others get hung up on works, or the law. Ephesians very simply tells us that we are saved by grace. But yet I see so many who have sinned, feel the need to read extra scripture, pray more, or attend more weekly services. Not bad things, but you can't earn grace. And if you could, would you be willing to hang on a cross to earn it? Aren't we trying to get out from under the law, remember Jesus said it brings death, grace brings life. Think about it, don't you ride for the freedom in it, the spirit, or is it to obey all the signs advising you along the way. Do this, don't do that-just obey the signs!

Life in Jesus is just that-free in the spirit. So next time you forget to put the side stand down-rookie, or try to fill your tank with diesel, because it's 10 cents a gallon cheaper, take time to keep your eyes on what's in front of you. Be patient, or you may become one.

And if when you have a problem, someone shows up with a tool kit of vise grips, hammer, and Phillips screw driver-and an adjustable wrench, say no thanks, I'll wait. And if he has adjustable wrenches in both metric and standard, start pushing-NOW! This may be the guy with the light tires, and missing nuts and bolts. Or he just may be a Christian, trying to help. But beware. You see Peter, back when he was Simon, tried to walk on water with Jesus. And he did, until he disobeyed and looked down. And sank. Like a rock. Few believers know that at that point Jesus decided to rename him Peter, the rock. It just wasn't the time to announce it yet. That was love. You see some sink like a rock, and some are standing on the rock. How you handle the situation will tell you all about the tools in your kit. And how you are using them.

Adequate is how Paul describes Jesus-not too much or too little. Just the right amount. Now if you would, hand me a wrench. Doesn't matter what size, but the bigger the better. I need to use it as a hammer....Sorry AC/DC, there is also another road I prefer to be on.

Grace really is amazing, isn't it?

love with compassion, and extra parts,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

funny, you don't look like the invisible man

You may not realize it, but the Invisible Man may be standing next to you. If you remember the old sitcom SOAP, Burt Campbell thought he was an alien, and would make himself invisible. Only he wasn't, everyone could see him except himself. And one of the skits on Amazon Woman on the Moon, Ed Begley, Jr. plays the invisible man-except again he isn't. And every night he goes into the pub naked, so they won't see him, and makes glasses and drinks move, and the people patronize him by saying "oh look, must be the invisible man! Blimey!"

Much like the emperor's new clothes, his aren't.

There are many out there today that feel invisible. They carry with them a private pain, no one sees them or their burdens. Carrying about a loneliness, they can't even comprehend. And finally when the pain becomes too much, we see the mass shootings like we did last week. Some say a sign of the times, but I realize it is a sign of the heart. God tells us what comes out of our mouth is what is on our hearts, and I shudder when I listen, or worse hear what comes from my own mouth sometimes. So often when people come to the end of their ropes, they over react. They can't tell what or when something will push them over the line. Not expecting to fail, but inevitably doing so. And always taking out others who are not intended targets.

Try that one on those who drink only until they get a buzz, not knowing when to quit because they don't know when it will occur. The result is still sin. Self induced pain is often the worst, but all pain, regardless of the source causes damage. Then repair is necessary, when often maintenance, like we do on our bikes and cars is required. Properly dealing with the causes, and not making excuses for symptoms, can stop many small problems before they become major issues. If only we heed the warnings!

Perhaps that is why we need to show love in all situations. You don't know if the cop who pulled you over just left the scene of a fatal crash. You don't know if the slow person ahead of you in line just left her cancerous husband in the hospital. And we don't know what you are going through either. Only God knows.

Visiting Kelly and Theresa in Yuma yesterday, we visited their church. Although only there for a short time, with Theresa's surgeries and needing help, they have been there with meals, clothes, fellowship, and prayer. And for Joan too, and you can see the results in love. Theresa asked us yesterday did we like her church service. Based on their actions, I did. And based on the teaching, I did. But it was leaving the parking lot where I made my final decision. The sign said simply "you are entering your ministry field." And these people showed it. And by showing love have covered a multitude of sins. And love also can cover a multitude of doctrinal differences.

Let your love become visible today. You may just shine the light of love on someone who has invisible pain, and needs to be loved. But remember to keep your high beams off. It isn't about you, it is about Jesus. Enter your ministry field with Him today.

Starting with those who you share a home with. Like charity, love begins there. Make sure that it isn't invisible. Some are just waiting to get their first look at Jesus-and it may be you!

love with compassion,

Mike

teach your children well

One of the benefits of getting older, and maybe wiser, is that you can say things you were afraid to or knew better not to say when you were younger. And get away with it. And I have been taking advantage of this liberty because I am amazed at the incredibly stupid, but well meaning things people say to me.

We have become a rather insensitive society-knowing that by saying that I have hurt someone's feelings. But we don't communicate well-we talk too much, and don't say anything-some lives becoming a long text message. Says all, knows nothing. Like today's weathermen. In the old days you looked outside, even I could tell when it was cold or raining. Now Doppler Radar is shown-and while this talking head is telling us about tomorrow's weather, shows the weather patterns in the background for the last 24 hours. Does anybody pay attention to the fact you are looking at the past while he is talking about the future?

At funerals, someone will come up and say "I understand how you feel." So I have been taking to responding "good, then maybe you can explain it to me, because I don't." Great way to end a conversation.

Or next time someone asks what they can do to help, tell them. We need bills paid, food, and an operation for Rosa Sharon, she's having a baby. Separates the well wishers from those who just give lip service. And lately when someone says they have been praying for me, I ask, "what have you been praying? I am broke, miserable, my leg hurts, and my kids are driving me nuts. Have you been praying all those things, because if you have God is answering your prayer!" I have learned to ask "how can I pray for you," then pray with that person now! And I mean it!

When working for Mercedes Benz I was usually given the tougher customers,the ones who couldn't get their problems resolved. One guy had bought his first Mercedes Benz, and had a list of 26 things this new E class had wrong with it. And since he was going to ruin us on a CSI score, it was important to see he was handled correctly. My attitude was fix the customer, and I did. I asked qualifying questions, and found out many things. He bought the car from another dealer, and got a good price, he told me so. But in his hurry to get home that night, the salesman did no predelivery time with him. One of the most advanced cars in the world, and this guy was handed the keys, and told to enjoy. He couldn't even turn on the radio-so the car was defective. Of the 26 complaints, 25 were user issues, found in the owners manual. The other was a trim piece he stepped on and broke-non warranty but I replaced it anyway. I went through the manual-at my speed-and reminded him that this should have been done by the salesman-it is part of his job. And when he tried to defend him, remember that good deal he got, I told him point blank he got ripped off. He paid too much. And it was not the service department's job to instruct him on what is in the owner's manual. He is taking time away from fixing cars that are broken, and to keep that in mind when he does have a real problem. he may have to wait because another guy got a good deal, too. Just like him. And I told him that unless he spent time with the car, not just washing and waxing, he would never learn all the things this car does that make it unique. That when he used the car to all its potential, then he had gotten a good deal. Right now he had paid too much, and the salesman had ripped you off. Shoulda bought a Toyota. And rather than hate me, he thanked me. Someone had told him the truth. He read the manual, then had real questions, that we helped him with. And he told us next time he will deal with us on a new car-we were professionals. Not just order takers. But it took telling him the truth. Sad because I had seen other advisors perpetually with the same customers, same complaints, with a non-fixable issue. Teach your customers well.

Aren't glad God doesn't change? That you don't have to change Him? That you can live life to fullness when you listen to Him? New believers-get into the word. Get to church. Get involved. Attend a Bible study. I have seen Christians get burned out, or burned up because they lost touch. Or went to non-believer friends for Christian advice. And soon took it, and backslid. The popular saying "what goes on here, stays here," can be applied to your relationship with God. He doesn't gossip, and tells you not to shop your problem around until you get an answer you like. Open the Bible and find the truth. Then enact it. Jesus says He forgives your sin. Act like it. You are a new creature, act like it. And don't try to understand it. When I do I get more confused, God calls it leaning on your own understanding-and advises against it. Be a wuss like me-go right for the peace that surpasses understanding. You see every time Mickey explains how something works on my bikes to me, I start hearing noises, or feeling vibrations. He knows they are normal, but I don't. But peace requires trust-and you don't trust someone you don't know. So get to know God-it's easy. Besides He wrote the book. "Oh yeah, I read it, " you say. Really-well I know the author! And I can talk to Him whenever I want. And He knows me! Top that!

And He loves questions. Can't say as you'll like His answers, but you will know the truth, and it will set you free. So read the Word, and find out how life really works, or should really work. Then ask questions. You will find life in Christ is an open book test, and the more you read the more you pass.

Cool Mike, I think I understand. Good, now explain it to me. I still don't get it. Maybe that is why we walk by faith. A faith that if you don't have is impossible to please God. For the things seen are temporal, the invisible things are forever. And trust me-I do know how you can feel. Aren't you glad Jesus does too?

Don't you wish you had said that?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com