the road you're on

I know many friends that keep journals, and then are able to look back and see how God has answered their prayers over the years. I am not that sophisticated, but while riding the other day, God impressed me to remember how He has taken me through the past 32 months, and rejoice. 32 months of unemployment, no income, no insurance benefits, and after losing 40% of my 401k in September, 2008. He has shown me the things of value, and how to depend on Him for everything, the following are just a few.

I am thankful that He called me into ministry full time the same morning I lost my job. I know that when He closes one door He opens another, I didn't realize the doors He was about to open. Good thing, because I might not have gone through-but God, knew and still does, as He opens more doors to me daily.

I never would have the devotion you are reading if not for Laiken. She touched my heart so before she died, and she encouraged by her testimony to share it with others, who encouraged me to write, even wrote a book. I am shocked how God can fill my heart as I write to Him each day, and how through forwards and other sharing, this is read by people on six continents! And in prisons-10 currently, who use them for encouragement, both personal and in sharing the gospel with others. From changed lives on death row, to the guards who read them, people get to hear the gospel. And that God would choose me, and this way to do it-still blows my mind!

God has been faithful to His promise in Psalm 37, and we have never gone hungry, and we have never had to beg. When we got into ministry, well meaning Christians told me to send out support letters, which I didn't and won't. His words to me were simple, "if you ask for it, it is not a gift." And He loves to give gifts, good ones. And we have been blessed by friends, family, and those who don't even know us. The most touching from my friend on death row-$15 for my ministry. The story of the woman with two mites to give, coming alive. Don't ever tell me the scripture returns void! I can give a list of names to prove it doesn't.

While sitting on my porch in May, 2008, wanting to be at work, and willing and able-I have a great work ethic, and was successful at my job, the Lord promised me manna in my refrigerator, in my garage, and for my mortgage. I have never been late on a mortgage payment, this year alone I have ridden over 20 different motorcycles for Triumph-at no cost. How many of you would love to be given the keys to a brand new bike, and told to return in 1500 miles, for another? Such has God blessed me. And our refrigerator is always full, and we are able to feed and minister to others. Truly God honors His word.

He was with me when I got hit twice last year, and keeps me in prayer for the second woman who hit me-Beverly has terminal cancer. I have lived to see both my sons rededicate their lives to Jesus, and get excited as I watch their growth. For over 32 years He has allowed me to be married to my best friend, and we get to minister together-it just doesn't get any better. And through the heartache of so-called friends, who turned against me when I stood for the truth, instead of their laws, I have learned about betrayal, and have seen Jesus in a whole new light. He truly sticks closer than a friend.

Finally I have seen grace and mercy first hand. Mercy, whenever I screw up, sad you have to sin to get it, and grace-better than anything else you can offer. I can walk through that valley with death's shadow's hanging over me, and fear no evil. Truly He is with me.

If I can ever do anything for you, please call. But be patient, I may not be home. In the past three years I have ridden over 100,000 miles, in 46 states. Another dream come true.

So maybe you can understand why I don't keep a journal, it would keep me from doing other things. But I never forget the one who has blessed me, and I hope you let Him bless you, too. For God has written His words on my heart, and I am never far from them.

And to think, it all started with losing my job...and trusting God in the vision He gave me. If He hasn't given you one lately, ask Him. And be prepared for the ride of your life! Journey asked "I want to know what love is.." It is a person called Jesus Christ. Stick with Jesus, and love the one you're with-forever!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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a bit of Goldilocks in each of us

Dick and I were riding up to an early breakfast one January morning and it was cold. The sun had just come up, and as we passed a thermometer we got colder. It said 40 degrees, and just the sight of that temp made us much colder. Funny how 40 doesn't sound that cold to you guys in Pennsylvania in winter, but to us SoCal guys that is cold.

Last July as Theresa and I crossed into Vermont from New York state-I highly recommend SR 22, a beautiful ride, it had been hot. We were stopping often to drink water, and had been in 90 degree weather for a couple of weeks. Greeting us as we crossed the state border was a temp sign saying 101-and suddenly we got very hot. Somehow the nineties was tolerable, triple digits pushed us over the edge. And yes, 101 is hot for Vermont!

Seems there is a certain thermostat built into us, more of mind than of matter. In summer we set our AC on 76 when it gets into the nineties. And it feels cool and comfortable. But yet if I set the heat in winter to 76, it seems warm! Is this just me, or do you do the same? Or is it possible we are impossible to please? Or do we really know when we are comfortable? I know for sure when I am uncomfortable!

I grow tired of hearing teachers tell me "to get out of my comfort zone." This popular, worldly cliché has invaded the church, and is used to encourage, or indict, or persuade the flock for whatever the pastor's reason. And I take exception to it, because unless we walk in the spirit, aka the Comforter, we are at odds with God, and should be uncomfortable. And the last time this was brought up, I challenged the teacher, telling him "I've worked a long time to get where I am in my relationship with God. I am finally in His comfort zone, and I don't want to leave it." Particularly when using legalistic tactics are used.

Are you sure you are where God wants you to be? Has He put something on your heart, and you wrestle with it, no peace? Maybe that is the Holy spirit urging you-so give in to Him. And watch as the peace that surpasses understanding envelopes you. Inside, outside, and all around. And watch as your viewpoints change. What was once difficult, is now fun. What was impossible, now happens as a daily occurrence. Pray, and ask for God to bless you, and watch as He sends His spirit-but it is up to you to trust Him, and let Him guide you. And when you are truly in God's comfort zone-you don't want to leave it! so don't do anything to screw it up! Trust and obey!

God loves to bless, and He blesses me often. Because I choose to let Him. I have learned that rather than freeze at 40, I dress for it. Rather than die in 100 degree heat, and humidity, I drink more liquids. In each case, I adapt to the situation-and no, whining and crying don't count. Try doing things God's way, and watch as you enter into His comfort zone. Trusting Him to guide you, as He provides for you. God knows exactly what you need, He calls it daily bread. And it is new every morning.

The three bears each slept good in their own beds. And even Goldilocks would be uncomfortable in Papa's or Mama's bed-they weren't hers. So trust God, your bed is custom made just for you, and let His spirit guide you. Get into His comfort zone, and enjoy true peace and joy. Where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty!

Just another benefit of knowing Jesus Christ. Now if the factory could only produce a better seat, I could ride longer! Heated grips-not in summer! But never be more comfortable than riding in the spirit! No matter the temperature, God is always cool!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

never forget 9-11

It is an old traveling proverb that if you want to lose a friend, take a trip with him. And sad to say, riding with some in group rides, this old adage is true. It seems some lesser riders feel the burden to make everyone as bad a rider as them, and go out of their way to prove it. But I am thankful that this proverb, like many others has a bright side. Let me explain.

Theresa and I rode our first Torches Across America in 2005. With Don as road captain, and his brother Link as tail gunner, we rode in a group of from 10-12 people from Oceanside to Stroudsburg, PA, over 3200 miles in a week. With minimal problems. Which set us up for the grand finale, riding into Ground Zero. And as the core group, we had travelled the greatest distance, we were put near the front of the pack, an honor indeed. Along with 3200 other bikers-patriots who had come to honor those killed on 9-11. Bikers from many states, who had travelled many miles, to end up at Brooklyn Harley-Davidson, and a final ceremony and lunch. More than we had ever anticipated.

We rode the 30 miles from Stroudsburg to Tramontin Harley, in Hope, NJ that morning, and were greeted by thousands of bikes, and bikers. No club differences, brand competition, or ethnic or social divisions here-we are all Americans, and rode as such that day. Staging in the parking lot, and also across the street, 3200 bikes take up a lot of space, we took off at around 11am for Brooklyn, via Ground Zero. We would go through the Holland Tunnel, then the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, then to our meeting point. Did I mention the ride was over 80 miles of freeway? And to put it in perspective, I needed gas, and when I got back on I-80, I passed 13 miles of motorcycles to resume my position! Their road crew had done such a great job, that we had no accidents, didn't lose anyone, and they kept traffic moving-from 60-80 mph. Overpasses were filled with Americans waving flags, hook and ladder units extended with 50" flags, and everywhere you looked-American flags. Riding somewhere between tears and a huge smile, our hearts pounding with pride and joy of being an American, we came to a split in the highway, and wouldn't you know it, the leader went the wrong way-the sign said Brooklyn, we should have taken the one to the tunnel, which led to a 45 minute delay outside the Holland Tunnel. Seems the Port Authority had shut it down for us, and when we didn't arrive, opened it up again. Then had to close it, while 13 miles of bikes and bikers parked on the road leading into it. Which turned into a party of its own, as cars entering from another direction had to wait too. Soon we were talking with them, singing Frank Sinatra songs with a cabbie, and meeting people we might not have met. I think everyone was happy except for the police, we thought this was part of the plan, they knew it wasn't.

Then finally through the tunnel, past Ground Zero, with a salute, then into the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel, and onto Brooklyn HD. Where for miles bikes were parked, and fire engines and other first responder units lined the road. The food-incredible. Whereas we had been fed a steady diet of hamburgers and hot dogs on the trip-Theresa was reminded that God provided her this manna, this food was Italian, subs, pizza, and of course hamburgers and tube steaks. All free and delicious! Meeting and talking with numerous firemen, some who had lost friends and brothers, exchanging, pictures, hugs, and tears-a time no words can adequately define. Thanks to all who donated, participated, helped, and were there. A truly memorable ending to a great trip. And it was bittersweet leaving our friends, who we grew to love and respect. Riding together had bonded us into a family of sorts, and from Michelle, who took her first motorcycle trip to honor her brother David Weiss-killed from Rescue One, to Joe, Rudy, Kip, and all the others-we still keep in touch. Long distance friends in more than one sense of the word.

They say God is a God of miracles, and even the hardest hard core doubter had his heart changed. Just looking at the numbers helped put it in perspective. 3200 bikes travelling over 80 miles equaled over 250,000 miles-without an accident! In one afternoon! People rallying together for a common cause-with no mishaps-amazing! And how about feeding 3200 people for free! Volunteers donating time, money, and goods-all for a common goal. And all the bike groups riding in from Ohio, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and California-amazing! To honor innocent victims, many of us who never met them-but Americans just the same. A unity of the heart-which continues on this weekend, from Tramontin Harley in Hope. If you are anywhere close-join it! At least pray for it, and them, as they go to honor and love on those killed and their surviving family members.

And for me it will always be special. I had contacted a state coordinator for CMA, who now distributes Bibles, and they have a biker blessing and prayer time before the ride. All from a vision God put on my heart-3200 miles and 3200 bikers ago. God can overcome any distance, can you let Him overcome the distance between you and Him? Don't let it take a disaster, just an open heart to meet Him. And realize that as we celebrate the heroes of 9-11, our still greater hero, Jesus Christ is alive, and there with you. Providing manna, gas, friends, and a personal guidance along the way.

If only Moses had bikers with Him, makes you wonder how the Israelites would have done? Don't wander like them-Jesus does group rides, and individual rides too. Join Him in one today-an honor I hope you enjoy today!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

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skidding sucks

In my over 40 years of riding one thing remains constant-riders have no trouble adapting to the power controlled by their right wrist, but have never quite learned how to control that power when stopping by using that right lever. A simple thing you would think, but obviously not. When I started riding, BMW's had a double leading shoe front brake, neat except when stopped on a hill, for when applied the bike would roll backwards-not so neat. Then Honda showed the world in the early 70's how everyone could and should have a front disc brake, and then we all learned to stop faster-we had to with those 70hp superbikes. And then the double front disc appeared, and today we have radial disc brakes, allowing even the nerdiest rider to do stoppies, or to stop when needed in an emergency much better, quicker, and safer.

But they haven't improved the rider, as I still see too many cruiser types only using the rear brake. And having stopped for accidents, and having them admit "yes I was ok until I overreacted and hit the rear brake, then I skidded," only proves my point. And the last Harley rider I told this got upset, and even more upset as a guy almost went down in front of us, you guessed it, sliding sideways, rear brake locked.

Engineering wise, cars have 70% of their brakes proportioned to the front, so should motorcycles. And if rear brakes are so important, why don't we see dual rear disc brakes? Maybe some do, obscured by all those bags, lights, and chrome goodies. But the point is, to stop, and stop correctly take some changing in your riding style, a change that might just save your life, and your buddy seat sitter!

The Corinthians 2000 years ago were much like the contemporary church of today, sad to say. Yes they were saved, but still fought the old problems from their past. They still engaged in the same old sexual sins, drinking, and other life styles that aren't part of a Christians life. So Paul, in 2 Corinthians, actually his fourth letter to them, the middle two aren't in the Bible, tells them to stop! Not stop or you'll die, just stop! For what they didn't realize, the joys that they were missing, as these sins kept them from enjoying all God's blessings. But more importantly, as we are all called to be a witness of Jesus-ambassadors he calls us, if we say we are saved, and act no different, you friend at work may think he is too. They do the same things you do, drink, smoke, tell dirty jokes, even attend church on holidays. But because of your example, they think that if they do the things you do it is ok, but they are not saved. You have given your life to the Lord, and are-they haven't and are fooled into thinking they will go to heaven when they die-and don't! Do you love your neighbor as yourself? The main love command Jesus gave. If you love God, love your neighbor. And get right with God. When he sees the change in you, he may stop too! Hopefully. And get saved!

Stopping a motorcycle takes a firm grip just like stopping in sin. But you must know what you are doing, and then apply it. You may be living on borrowed time if you don't, isn't it a good thing God is patient? The Buick driver coming from the bar at the next intersection may not be!

Work out your salvation daily, the Lord instructs. And when we practice what we preach, in an emergency situation we will do what is practiced-those things in our heart.

I can't find any stats of accidents caused by going over the handlebars, but rear skid accidents happen all the time. Complete your riding skills by stopping correctly, it is even fun! And walk with Jesus-the life He saves may be your own family's! Put all your power in His hands, and just stop!

Now, did you know revving your bike at a light may sound cool, but racers hold that throttle open and steady...... a good way to go through life! In Jesus!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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the last man out

Last Man Out. To miners, it means that the crew is accounted for and the day is over. To a soldier it means the mission is accomplished and all are accounted for, safely we hope. But to first responders, it takes on a special meaning. It means the crew is accounted for, but also all the victims have been rescued safely. And to all the above, if one is missing, the whole team suffers. To the last man out.

On 9-11-2001, when cowardly terrorists flew our planes into the World Trade Center, thousands of first responders did exactly as they were trained. Only to find that no training had prepared them for the scale of this emergency. After realizing that anyone above the fire line could not be rescued, about the 86th and 93rd floors respectively, they set about to clear the remaining lower floors, even as people jumped to their death in the fireball on the floors they were on. The sound of bodies hitting the ground indescribable, those who chose death by jumping as opposed to the inferno.

And heading up the stairs and passing thousands escaping, they rushed upward valiantly, not realizing what they were facing, not realizing what the people on the upper floors were fleeing from, not knowing the enemy's attack was so devastating that in minutes the twin towers would be collapsing-know one could have predicted that. And when suddenly the south tower fell, then the north, thousands of people lost their lives, among them hundreds of first responders, losing their lives while trying to save others.

For blocks the devastation was something no FX expert could dream up. The debris covered blocks, and left anyone in its path a victim. But along with the devastation, brought an eerie silence, for where once life had been, now there was death-and lots of it. With the silence only broken by chirping-and lots of it. And sadly the firemen knew exactly what it was, and knew who it might be. The chirping sound came from a locator they all wear, so that no one be left behind, if injured, he could be found and they could rescue him, even if he was the last man out. And today many of their brother firemen, called out to them, chirping, except it was too late. For although the chirping continued, their bodies were totally destroyed in the holocaust, some never recognized by dental records even, as when the buildings fell, it pulverized them. And to the last man out, the enormous loss was felt.

As you look out among the debris that is in your life today, you may be calling out, and wondering does anyone hear me? Who is there when the doctor tells me it is cancer? Who is there when my marriage falls apart? Who will feed me, and make my mortgage, I lost my job? Does anyone hear me? Doesn't anyone care?

Jesus cares, and even shows us in the example of the 99 sheep. He goes back to get the lost one, and will not leave until the last man is out. He is with you when you are alone, and among the debris He hears your call for help. And He is patient that none should perish, such is His patience. Let Him guide you today, so the next door doesn't lead to more danger. So He can feed and clothe you. So He can rescue you from loneliness, and go through every situation with you. He hears your call, will you hear His answer?

For some 2000 years He has been the last man out. And remains behind long after you are safe and secure. Stay safe and secure in Him. Closer than a friend, he never sleeps or slumbers.

And on this 9-11 remember the heroes, and the ones who didn't get out. Get out for them, and remember their heroism, on a day that too many don't remember. And remember a person, Jesus who you can't afford to forget. Always, the last man out.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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love at first bite

When travelling, we always try to eat at local eateries. They can be a Mom and Pop diner, to a local chain. And throughout the US of A there are many local hamburger chains. With each one delivering a different take on a very basic food, the hamburger. Add fries, and a Coke, and you have a balanced meal. With a milkshake added, a very well balanced meal, of course. And I am amazed at how such a simple premise-ground beef, can take on so many flavors and personalities.

When in the Midwest, we start looking for a Steak and Shake. Sirloin burgers, with shoestring fries and the best milkshakes-period. Just ask our Torches guys, we're the ones in the paper hats. My friends in Clark, NJ with their White Diamond, nothing fancy, just good meat on a fresh bun, cooked on a grill with over 60 years of memories on it. Excuse me, may I have another? And sit at the counter and watch them being cooked-no secrets here-just a real honest burger.

When you happen to be in Pierre, SD, happens all the time, right? stop at Tom's, another local. Great food, and $1 off on baskets, otherwise referred to as combos, or in California as a number, fresh and hot. And you find in the Midwest they call them "smashers," as they take they patty, not premade, and smash it onto the grill, just like White Diamond. No perfectly shaped burgers here. Worth the ride to Pierre. When in NM Blake's Lota Burger is the way to go. Theresa even worked in their office when she moved to Albuquerque. I always have the Lota Burger combo, but Theresa prefers their BBQ. Each meal made to order.

And of course California has its own special spin on burgers. In So Cal it is In and Out. Double Double with onions please. But lately I have been drawn to Tommy's, out of LA. Great fries, and the chili served on everything is the best. For me, extra chili and onions, at no extra charge, of course, please. Good stuff. Bakers in San Berdoo county, is worth the hour ride for lunch. And if you can, try a Five Guys, just new in Orange. Worth the wait in line-be prepared, it's noisy and loud, and almost out of control, but great burgers. Messy, too.

But a noticeable demographic almost always appears when these burger joints are placed next to a national chain like Mickey D's or Wendy's. They are always busy, while the national chain has lots of empty spaces to park. And for the past decade I have noticed the same in churches. The old denominations still are serving the same traditional religion, while many so-called contemporary churches are springing up. Based on a Calvary Chapel approach to the gospel, they teach through the Bible, verse by verse and sermons are not topical. Music is great, mixed with worship songs and old hymns. And the old main line denominations are losing attendance, while the others grow. Serving the same gospel, but in a more personal way, and led by the spirit, Calvary Chapels continue to grow, in both numbers attending and also personal growth. And just like all hamburgers are all the same to start with, the gospel is still the same. Yet some feel the need to add to it, and it loses its flavor. Some water it down, and it loses its message. It is those churches that share the gospel, straight up with no added trimmings that are growing. No designer Jesus here, just the truth, shared in love. And maybe that is why these local stands are growing. They go back to the basics-good food, good service, and a good atmosphere. Gimmicks may be good for a quickie lunch rush, but to keep 'em coming back, consistent quality must be maintained. Pastors and church boards take note. If you are running out of themes, here is one to try-Jesus. Present the gospel, in love. And watch as a local stand, grows to many locations. A growth led by God, not some promotional campaign. Nothing tastes as good as the truth. You actually think you can have better message than the gospel?

Dave Thomas, of Wendy's fame, made a fortune using a very simple premise. The two most important bites of the burger are-the first. Fulfill every desire that you had when you ordered it, fulfilling the need to eat. Can't wait to take the next bite. And the last, makes you want another after you are done. A simple premise, but not unique. And it works in life, too.

Jesus has been telling the same message for centuries. You are hungry for God, but can't find Him. Jesus made the way, and fulfilled your hunger, in love, when you first meet Him. He fulfills your every need, and when you are done praying,worshipping, or fellowshipping, He leaves you looking forward to coming back for more. If your fellowship isn't doing these things, pray and ask God to direct you to one that is.

And to all you burger stands, be glad Jesus isn't in the hamburger business. You wouldn't stand a chance. His quality is the highest, the flavor the greatest, always fresh, and no one leaves empty. Feed on the word today-that next big bite is just around the corner-in love.

Oh, and the best ones always need extra napkins. Make your day a many napkin day, with Jesus.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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when life interferes with your plans

"The End of the Trail," depicts total loss. In this famous statue is shown complete despair on the part of the American Indian. With his head down, and spear pointed down, the Indian is matched only by his horse in total exhaustion. They have fought the battle and lost. And now where do you go? And what do you do? To whom do you turn when defeat surrounds you?

As I look back on numerous trips I have taken, I feel totally exhausted at the end, and empty. I didn't want them to end. But yet I do, why, I don't know, as I should be filled with joy, as I have just completed a trip, a vacation, a quest, or dream come true. But yet, this emptiness haunts me for days-more than emotions, it cuts deep. And this is just about time off from all the pressures of life, but yet somehow we take our problems with us, and don't rest when we need to. Why is it that after a happy event, or a blessed event we can feel so exhausted and empty? Do our emotions run our lives that much?

I watched on vacation this year as mothers took care of young ones, while the husband read the paper, or watched TV at breakfast. She-frazzled and tired, no rest here for her, the only difference between here and home was a change of scenery. He-no rest for him either, as he brought the office with him via a laptop, cell phone, and text messages. The kids, they get tired of standing in line, missing friends, and being told how much fun they are having. Mom needs a break, and the kids just want their dad to spend time with them, like he promised when they planned the trip. But, they end up rather being at home and playing with their friends. And for two weeks, many miles, and thousands of dollars, they call this a vacation-only finding out in vacating they can't wait to get home-at least it gives them a home field advantage. Sad, and pathetic. And will repeat this family time again next year.

But I have learned in recent years to relax, and not only on vacation. Going through my prayer requests this morning I have cancelled flights, cancer, cancer, broken marriages, liver, unknown illnesses, broken relationships, joblessness, loss of home, and the list goes on. People who are about to give up, whose hope is gone,and whose horse is as worn out as them, the tip of their spear stuck in the ground, feeling the battle is too great, the war is too large, and wishing to just have it all end. And as is so often heard, "I just don't get it. I don't understand how we ever got this way."

Jesus never promised us understanding. Because understanding will not alleviate the problem. He promises us peace in the midst of the storm. A calm, that surpasses understanding, and gives us confidence that while all hell breaks loose around us, that He is in control-and we can find that peace when we submit to Him. No ritual, no words-just a complete turn to Him, and then let Him handle the problem, without us coaching. You see Satan, the destroyer, wants to ruin your life. He cannot inhabit Christians, but he can upset events and others who don't know Jesus. But God is in control, and not a hair of our head can be touched without God allowing it.

We don't have to be like the Indian, we can be like Job, who after losing his kids, friends turning on him, and losing all his wealth, still sought God. And was rewarded at the end, getting a new family and double of everything that he lost. This is perhaps one book that it is OK to read the end first, as it makes the middle easier to take. No coincidence this is the oldest book of the Bible. Suffering is the really the oldest profession.

Today you may be Job. Don't become like his wife. Trust God, it is in the in-between times that God is there, just like the beginning, and will be at the end. You see the end of our trail is heaven, and we endure just to get there. As we cling to God, He takes us through the problems, and shows us love in ways we cannot imagine. And that is my prayer for you today.

Like my friend Jim tells, "when you answer the door and it is Satan, turn to Jesus and say "it's for you!"

Let Jesus be the end of your trail. Go no further without Him. Whether vacation, home, your daily grind, or wherever-He is. Promising a peace that surpasses understanding, and anything else. Be encouraged, for the end of our trail, is the beginning of heaven. And I can't wait to get there. See you soon. Amen to all your prayers, may we find favor with God's answers.

love with compassion,

Mike

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