the task ahead is never as great as the God behind you

It was 9-11 that brought the title "first responders" into our daily lexicon. Men and women, who when faced with a situation, responded first. And we learned how they face danger, and how in some cases it may even cost them their lives. And we learned with sadness mixed with gladness of how we love and respect them for it.

Although it is said that actions speak louder than words, it is reactions that speak the loudest. And just like a first responders reaction is based on actions learned, then taken to heart, our reactions are based on our heart, too, and what we have in it. And our reactions will tell the world more about Jesus than many of our actions.

I have never met a Christian who has not been called a hypocrite at least once. And sadly, the accusation is right. Maybe not in that particular situation, but somewhere along the line, we reacted not with the heart of Jesus, but out of our own selfishness. And to those who accuse me, I wish to apologize. Forgive me. And I pray you never fall victim to your own accusations in your life. Now that certainly would be hypocrisy, wouldn't it? But as Christians, God calls us to a higher standard. We are to love as Jesus loves us-without reservation or qualification. That may explain while many of our reactions take so long. But even worse is when we react in love, but harbor bitterness or hatred in our hearts. To our audience we may have reacted correctly and been spared the title of hypocrite, but God sees our heart, and we are just as guilty. Add lying into it, for we add that in when we mislead our audience about our altruistic actions, and we fall short of God's love. Fortunately He is gracious to show mercy and forgive. May we do the same?

I have been in two Saturday night services where a medical situation arose. Both being recorded for TV or radio. Both speakers, at the time, engrossed on what they were saying. In the first instance, first responders, aka paramedics came in and attended to the man during the service. Not one word, not one indication of any problem was mentioned from the pulpit. No call to prayer, no what can we do, in short-NO love shown. How would you have felt if the man was your dad, your son? What if it was you? Sadly this pulpit filler showed no love, and I felt sick-for both men. I almost stood up and rebuked him, but instead prayed for the sick man, only God can change a hard heart like that pastor's. But I carried bitterness about the pastor. Hypocrisy. I hope I have been forgiven, but am saddened that a man who preaches Jesus, who is love, failed when put in a situation where it needed to be shown. When confronted with an opportunity for a live demonstration of God's love-he blew it! Now that's hypocrisy.

The second event happened while a lady walked up the aisle and collapsed. Two people rushed to her aid, and took care of her. They appeared to be medically trained. At first the speaker didn't see it, but when he did, after a few seconds had passed, had us all stop and pray. The proper first aid, as God had sent two people to attend to her physically. Maybe, like in the first scenario, the rest of us were on trial, to show how we would react. Hopefully we reacted in love, putting this woman ahead of any taping schedule, and making her situation paramount to any other preplanned sermon. A live demonstration, of where our hearts were, in both situations. My question is, how would you have reacted?

Today God will place a Lazarus or two in your path for you to demonstrate God's love. How you react will tell your audience more about Jesus and who He is in your life than a lifetime of sermons. Keeping in mind, that Jesus told His disciples, whoever does this for the least of them, is doing it to me, what will be your first response? The Bible tells us that obedience is better than sacrifice. I can attest to that one. But our first reaction, which should be based on love, will show who Jesus is in our lives.

Someone is always watching. And we are all hypocrites. Please, if called one, don't feel led to give them a live demonstration. Mark Twain once said, "if you have a reputation for being a fool, don't open your mouth to prove it." Jesus tells us, "these things shall follow them that believe." Love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, kindness, long suffering, and self control. What is in your heart will proceed from your mouth. God already knows. Now, what gospel do you want to share to a lost and dying world? God leaves that up to you.

And your first response is.....Don't wait until a 911 call to show love. Let your actions speak louder than words, and your reactions be covered in love. Love is always the best action, and may keep you from having to react later. And as always, the proper answer is... Jesus!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

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and on the fifth day we rested

Years ago when I lived in Farmington, jokingly I suggested riding to San Diego on Memorial Day weekend for lunch. If we left after work on Friday, it would give us four days on the road, an easy schedule to ride the 1600 mile round trip. And so after discussing it, Brett, Bill, George, David, and myself decided to do it. And we had more fun. Even got to stick our feet in a cold Pacific Ocean, and George got his first sight of the Saguaro cactus-he "didn't realize that Arizona looked like this," having never been out of New Mexico. And the trip went pretty smooth, and this fun group of guys made it memorable.

At one point we switched bikes riding across the Arizona desert on I-8. I ended up on a Virago, which had four way flashers on it. Earlier George and Dave had mooned someone, and I figured this was a good time to get them. Falling back, far enough so that I lost sight of them, I turned on the flashers, and flipped the hi beam on and off, appearing to be a cop in pursuit to them. All four instinctively pulled over when they saw the flashing lights, and I went by waving. But George and Dave thought the moonee had called the cops and they were under going to be arrested, in Arizona where George had never been before. They laugh now, but they didn't then. I did both times.

All in all it was a fun trip, with only minor problems,that we overcame easily. And it was the first long trip for any of them except me. And our loose schedule had allowed us fun, without stress of where to be, or when. But that was to change. They decided to do it the next year, with Bill in the lead. He planned a similar trip, but had it down to 15 minute intervals, including sleep on rest area tables for 15 minutes. Four days broken down in 15 minute intervals, and they were surprised when I declined to ride with them. And at first, their feelings were hurt. They had with me accomplished a long weekend of 1700 miles, had a great ride, eaten well, but didn't quite understand the freedom of the road. I am not sure of details of their trip, but rest assured it didn't go according to schedule. At least once they got on the road!

It has been said into each life a little rain must fall. And being an outside person, I am not a big fan of rain. At night, fine but let all the roads be dry by morning. But this spring in So Cal, we have had more than an average spring rainfall, so I haven't had time to ride. And we have been forced to be inside, which means more reading, more trip planning, and more time in front of the TV. All things which in themselves are not bad, but when you rather be somewhere else, each carry their own penalties. Not a complaint so much, as a suggestion to God-send sun! Please! But God knows how much we need rain, how pretty it makes everything after it, and how we need to trust Him, even when it rains. For our lives are not Bill's planned trip. He left no room for flexibility, therefore never being able to be guided by God. They missed taking detours, or different roads, because they were on a schedule. They made four days of freedom into four days of exhaustion, by trying to keep to a rigid schedule, that no one imposed on themselves, except for themselves. A choice to be under bondage, rather than freedom.

Now I can't do much about the rain, but I can about my plans. And I have found that flexibility is a key to a successful trip, and can be to a successful life. When things don't go our way, like rain, we should seek God for His plans, His will to be done, just like Jesus said. And find out that He has blessings for us we didn't know about. Safer roads, with better places to eat. And new roads, which at times can feel like they were made just for us.

Being bitter about God's decisions reflects more on us than Him. He knows all-He's God. His love is perfect, and without bounds, conditions, or weather encouragement. When He allows time for rest, we need to rest. When we need to go faster, He will make the way. Slower, I think we all have been stuck in traffic, but only God can see how He may have saved us from what was ahead.

Apply your life's plans to your next vacation. Vacate the things of the world, the schedules, the trials, and ask God for what you should do today. And better yet, make every day a vacation, by starting it with Jesus. Yes, it may rain, but He is with you. Sunny days, he is with you too. But only, if you ask Him along. For His presence in your life is like godly advice, it only works if taken. Take some Godly advice today, seek God. Listen to Him, even if it makes no sense. And follow it. Enjoy the ride of life God has given you. Take in the sights, eat good food, and rest in body, soul, and spirit. Take the time you have to take the time.

Sleep soundly every night. It sure beats 15 minutes on a picnic table! And enjoy the ride of your life!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the benefits of never growing up

Although it was only 30 years ago, I have trouble thinking of the seventies as the good old days. Yes, I guess they were good, at least ok, but old, that would make me old, and although it's raining and my joints hurt, I don't think of myself as old. For me there are certain lines of demarcation. Old can be before I got my license, and was unable to ride places. Old can be before I got out of high school, and discovered the freedom of not having to go to school, but still having trouble with the responsibility of going, because you should. Old can be remembering things of my childhood, but not remembering what I had for dinner last night. But old is one of those relative words, not like old relatives, but it has to be compared to something. And so old really become older. Older than the Mets in '69. Older than Viet Nam. Older than the Mets again in '86. And older than Desert Storm. Hope this doesn't make you feel old, and not even older, too.

Brett gave me a sticker years ago, "I REFUSE TO GROW UP!" And I still feel that way. Seems that my age has added years, but somehow avoided maturity. I watch kids playing catch, and I want to, until I remember my rotator cuffs. I watch as my sons are early in their careers, and I think I am too, except my original career is over, and my new one in full time ministry keeps me young. I listen as many young people wonder how they are going to get by, and even though I know how, and why, I still wonder sometimes, how did I make it this far, and what lies ahead? It is the kid in me, always being excited, and still not grown up enough to think I know it all. In fact, the more I learn, the less I find I know. Maybe that is a sign of growing up. I hope not old!

But for me, the line of demarcation in my life was in August of 1975. That is when I became Born Again, and gave my life to Jesus. I can't remember the exact date, but I remember the change in my heart, and its attitude. I remember looking at things differently, and not really knowing why. I remember feeling fresh and new, but didn't know enough about God to even tell anyone. But my heart had changed, and I was excited. An excitement I still enjoy today.

Today I have many friends who study the Bible, prophecy, dates, feasts, festivals, laws, and customs of Jesus. Good for them, because I am not that sophisticated. And I don't want to be. I still enjoy being a child. And to my detractors, I ask they just do what they are commanded to do-love God and then me. Don't ask more of me than God has given. For in my immaturity, I also have this peace, that surpasses their knowledge and understanding. Which can be wrapped up simply in the story of the blind man.

A certain blind man, from birth, was given sight by Jesus. And he went out declaring "I can see, I can see!" And he was known to have been blind from birth, so this was a miracle, to all who saw him. But I like his answer, when asked whether Jesus was good or bad. He simple reply, "all I know is that once I was blind, and now I can see." A simple statement, and that is why I prefer to stay childlike. I just know Jesus. I just trust Jesus. And while I was once blind to Him, now I see Him as the Son of God, who died for my sins. The perfect healer, my savior, and my provider. My best friend. So what kind of question is that, is He good or evil?

My old days proceed Jesus, the good old days in them started the day I let Him into my life. And being able to live in the security that I am already on my eternal road, and soon will enter into heaven with Him. My pain and suffering will be gone, and I will be in the house of the Lord forever.

Is that good or bad? Only if you don't know Jesus would you ask. Let God open the eyes of your heart, and enjoy an infinite amount of good old days that lie ahead. Forever a child of God, coming to Him in a childlike way. I like that.

And still old enough to have my license, to ride, and sit up to take my meals. Yes, these are the good old days.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

timing lights don't tell time

It is not unusual for motorcycle shops to not work on bikes that are over ten years old. It is not so much that parts aren't available, but usually because techs aren't, or at least ones who are willing to take the time to do it right. So when it comes to a real old timer like my 1978 Suzuki, the techs are few and far between. Up until the advent of electronic ignitions, you had points and condenser to change at every tune up, and throw in a set of plugs. Set the timing, adjust the carbs, and test ride. It may have taken a little time, but you could always tell the difference after the tune up. Today even on my oldest bike, a 2002, you just change the plugs every 12,000 miles-that's it and at twice the mileage interval of before. Adjust the idle, if you ask, and that's it-go riding! For bikes at this point are truly self tuning, the job of a computer, which is constantly making adjustments, over 100 per second, and the plugs are the only part to wear out. And if the computer fails, replace it. Nothing to diagnose, unless you have a check engine light, which will point to a sensor failing, usually not a system, and you have the reason no one can diagnose, and why no one works on bikes over 10 years old. They don't know how!

It's the fundamentals. We watched a show the other night where they pulled out a fuse panel, then had AC repairman come to the house to diagnose. Only two of many found the problem, and one still charged-for diagnosis! The others never looked, and some claim they did, but the tape proved them wrong. The truth being-no one knows how to or take the time for the fundamentals. No one asks, is it plugged in? Does it have gas in it? And we have not only a larcenous repairman, but an ignorant consumer too. Not sure which one came first.

And when Triumph on their new 2011 bikes had to go 12 miles before the computer starts gathering data, one test rider ran out. The bike showed full, but was empty. So it was towed to the shop, where two guys ran full diagnostics, and couldn't fix it. When the service manager was confronted with the fact it was only out of gas, both techs claimed they checked it, and was full. The only thing full was their story, and it was full of, well you get it. They never looked. Magically when fuel was added, it fired right off. But again, no one takes the time to check the basics. So where do you find the time to do it over when you don't have the time to do it right in the first place?

Some so-called Bible teachers are no different. Many are taught, and even quote things supposedly in the Bible, but not found there.

1-Spare the rod and spoil the child. The idea is found, but never the words.

2-God helps them that help themselves. An Aesop fable. If you could save yourself, you wouldn't need God.

3-Money is not the root of all evil-the love of it is. Quote it correctly. There is a difference.

4-The Bible never mentions three wise men, only three gifts. There could have been 100's.

5-The lion may lie down with the lamb, but it is never mentioned. The lion is always paired with another animal.

Now these things may not affect your salvation, but they may affect others. Words mean something, and God's word is very specific in many areas. You must be born again to enter the kingdom of heaven. A requirement, not a suggestion. The world is not coming to an end, or why would the Bible refer to birth pangs? And when He says no one knows the time and date of His return, He means NO ONE! Yet billboards all over the city state May 21st is the end. And is precisely a scenario that the Bible warns about. Yet, many, some who are wishing well, yet others who only wish to deceive, make these statements. One thing I do know-God doesn't like to be misquoted! And He is truth, and will work on people with decades of sin, just as well as young ones. His love cannot be explained.

Making plans for May 22nd? For all of us who missed this day of judgment, let's pray for those who were misled. And trust God to change their hearts. For Christianity is not a circus, although these people make it so. Sadly, they are the ones Mr. Barnum warned about, and sadly many minutes can be accounted for in their statements. Stick close to God. He will give the words to you when you need them.

The truth is we will all face a day of judgment. And if you haven't given your life to Jesus based His first visit, you probably won't like His return any better. Today is the day of salvation. Look it up! And be ready.

The old saying about the one who cuts your hair, fixes your motorcycle, and cooks your meal being a keeper. Add to that the one, at the top of the list, the one who can rescue your soul from death and hell. Read your Bible, and maybe you won't misquote it so often. A Godly tune up, needed continually, by a God who knows and loves you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Bible quotes from the Blue Letter Bible, sayings not found in scripture.

twisting the habanero throttle of life

When passing through Flagstaff a couple of years ago, Neil and Teri took me to dinner at Salsa Brava. Good food, one of DDD's favorites, and Guido was right on. They even have a salsa bar with their own blends, and one caught my eye-habanero mango. Now I like sweet salsas, so went for the habanero. And it wasn't love at first bite-my mouth instantly caught fire! And after downing two glasses of water, it only got hotter! Seems the habanero chili is one of the hottest on earth, on the heat scale where jalapenos rate 2500, the habanero rate 100-300,000! And this was news to this gringo! But strangely, after returning there on two subsequent trips, I ate the same salsa, and it wasn't as hot. The difference is/was, I was ready for it, knowing what it was. Either that or my sense of hot was completely scorched from the first visit. Still looking for that elusive mango taste.

But I also found out that the salsa was great for clearing the sinuses, no prescription needed. Just lots of water, and ready access to the men's room. Now where do they keep the extra toilet paper?

Riding motorcycles can be like that, as just because it says one thing on the tank, doesn't mean that it isn't fast, or slow. For a guy who doesn't ride Harleys, I rode two of the same model within four days. When I rode Pastor Fred's 2010 Dyna Fat Bob, which he had told me was breathed on, it was fast, and I was ready. Even talking to Spud this weekend, he told me that the Fat Bob would pull right to red line-aren't they all supposed to? So when Chris came by with his brand new 2011 Dyna Fat Bob, and told me to see what it would do, I did. And was disappointed after riding Fred's. Whereas his bike accelerated to 90 mph easily, the new bike was much slower, and I finally got it to top out at 105. And compared to the new Tiger XC 800 I am putting miles on, both are slow. So what does it all mean?

Like life, we are not all in the same state of tune. To some it matters, wanting to get the most out of life, but to others, they just cruise by. Never opening the throttle to see what life has for them. I am not a cruiser, I want the most performance out life I can get-and also my rides. A habanero ride. After being ready, of course. And on the 2011 Fat Bob, I would have been OK-if, I hadn't ridden one that showed its potential. And once again the old question about speed is answered once more, "how fast do you want to go?" "How much do you want to spend?"

God asks you the same question. How close to Him do you want to be? Or other words, how blessed do you want to be? I say, spend it all! For even though we all claim to serve the same God, we are all at different levels. Some walk with God WTO, while others barely open the throttle of blessings. Some acknowledge Him publicly in all they do, and some barely recognize Him at all. And the fruit, or blessings we bear will tell that difference. Jesus tells us that "these things shall follow those that believe." These things being healings, miracles, salvation, peace, and a walk with God that surpasses anything dreamed of or imagined. And although we are all equal, some just don't ever open the throttle enough to find out, and miss the blessings that God wants to give.

And you don't have to be foolish like me with habaneros. Or spend money to go fast, for built into each of us is a potential that only God can unlock. Just twist your faith throttle. And unless we let Him, we cannot do it ourselves. Trust God, and avoid a habanero experience that may have you avoid all salsas in the future. Trust God when you open the throttle, and get everything out of the ride that the bike can give. But ask God today, "what is your desire for my day?" Jesus told us in the Lord's prayer, to ask "thy will be done." Let us be bold enough to trust God. And though I ride fast through the valley of habaneros, I will fear no evil-for He is with me!

But it takes trust. I trusted the salsa and got burnt. Trust God and don't get burnt. Now that you have tasted of God, don't you want more? Follow Him, and these things shall follow you. Get the most out of each meal, each ride, and your life. And if you don't know how hot a chili is, ask! If you want more of God, just ask. And let the blessings begin!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

ooh baby it's a wild world, it's hard to get by with just a smile...

Freedom of choice. We all scream about it when we don't get our way. "It's our right!" we scream, "it's my right!" And sometimes believe just because we are Americans, and have that freedom, that it is universal. Sorry, another myth exposed. For only in God are you truly free, and only in Christ do you have the freedom to choose, and find real freedom. But your choice will not necessarily set you free.

Yusef Islam sold over 25 million records in the late sixties and into the seventies. A super star of his time. He not only sang, but played guitar and was a great songwriter. But somewhere along the way, he got involved in Islamic beliefs, and became a Moslem in the late seventies. At that point he put down his guitar, and refused to ever sing again, believing that by not using the gifts that God has given him he was glorifying Allah. And for 30 years never sang, and never played guitar. Trying to please a false God, who among his 99 characteristics does not include love. But does include harsh rules, and no promise of heaven when you die. You live your whole life hoping, but never knowing. And you never experience peace. Something, peace, still such a chanting point of liberals who tell us "to do your own thing," except when it comes to Jesus. But after 30 years, he picked up his guitar and now sings again. His voice, as beautiful as ever, but 30 years of joy robbed from him by a false God who inflicts personal pain and suffering to his believers. Where is the freedom in that? 25 million albums, and you still don't remember him?

Sorry, I forgot to tell you his real name. Cat Stevens. Now does it ring a bell? Songs that were so beautiful, and continued to be played and sung for 30 years, despite his self inflicted wounds of denial. With no rewards for his action-it didn't get him closer to God one inch. And watching a documentary on him, which I turned off after a short while, Moslem clerics, and so called experts mostly agreed what he did what not found in the Koran, and only some fringe sects would demand it. Personally, they were glad to hear his music again. And I am too.

Religion, the base word of it, means binding. Like to tie you up and restrict you. Sound familiar? And I don't listen to anyone, any group, or any so-called experts debate Christianity either. Jesus was against religion, for He was the true author of freedom. He promised to set you free, if you followed Him and walked by the spirit. Truth, He calls it. But today too many churches, denominations, or cults demand your allegiance, and invade the freedom of the Holy Spirit. Joining their membership,putting fiscal demands on their congregation, and demanding works to prove their devotion to God. All things not found in the Bible, but taught from pulpits. And sadly followed by people who never get the full benefit of knowing Jesus Christ.

You don't have to be a cult member to deny Jesus, just not follow Him. And those that debate Him only lose, because once you engage in an argument, you both lost. For it is not knowledge, family genealogy, denominational doctrines, or self denial that sets you free-each one of those will have its own kind of binding influence-religion is the name we call it. And will only rob you of joy, and get between you and God. A true God demands a choice, but does not force Himself on you. A loving God is there for you, and sacrificed His son so you can be reunited with Him. For even in our most altruistic moments, we will always fall short. Sadly, so many religions only tell you to listen, only in Christ do you have someone who will listen to you. He is the Way!

In Cat's beautiful song, Father and Son, listen to it on YouTube, and listen to the words. A pre-Harry Chapin, and gentler Cat's Cradle. Sometime in your life, God will make Himself known to you, and you must give an answer to who Jesus Christ is. His song states, "it hard, but it's harder to ignore it." Don't ignore the calling on your heart today to accept Jesus. Don't let God become the same old story and turn away.

For there is a way, His name is Jesus. Don't throw away your life for nothing like Yusef Islam did. Enjoy all the freedom God desires for you, more than you can imagine or ask for yourself. For there is a way-and those who choose Jesus will never regret. Don't be the son who turns away, but be the one who turns to the Son.

And pray for Yusef and those others like him looking for love in all the wrong places. Freedom to choose also allows a wrong decision. Don't throw away your life over trying to please a false God. Choose God and live. True freedom, only found in Jesus.

Yusef, I hope you get the message. It's a wild world, and hard to get by with just a smile.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

spending the day with friends

I get rude comments from certain people when I tell Harley jokes. But never when I tell Triumph jokes, or even Honda jokes. And they don't hurt my feelings when I hear them about my own bike, if it's funny, it's funny! And I have been accused of being jealous of Harley owners, and only being able to afford riding Triumphs. For their knowledge, I am down to four of them. No, not so I always have one that runs. And if you really cared, why not buy we one? I have been accused of not living the lifestyle-hey buddy, I ride mine. when you have ridden 50,000 miles a year for the past four years, tell me about your trailer queen and where it's been. 20 grand and 20 miles still don't make you a biker. OK you win, your FICA score is higher. Get out and ride!

You see I have the same addiction that my friend Spud at Biggs HD has, we both love motorcycles. And I have a standing invite anytime I want, to ride any bike they have on the floor! And I haven't because I feel bad for not going in to buy one. I am not afraid to ride one, another myth exposed, and for some strange reason, these Harley people like us. Maybe they are the ones you should vilify! When we walk in, we are joked about as "Oh no, the Triumph people are here-shut the doors-keep them away from our real bikes." And we all laugh! And when I take Stu on his Wing, he gets it too! Although we all know Gold Wing riders deserve it. For we all love to ride. Hey-we are even the token Triumph owners in Black Sheep-Harley Davidsons for Christ! Don't tell Marty! And are blessed to minister with them, and we love to. You see true love covers a multitude of sins. Even brand prejudice. And yesterday, on an incredible day of blessings from God, He brought a Harley into my life-no I haven't spent any money I don't have, my Triumph signs are still intact, although I can still fit two more bikes in the garage. I rode Pastor Z.'s 2010 Dyna Street Bob. He made me get my helmet, and told me, "this runs like a Harley is supposed to." Not sure what that was to mean, but I got on it, and got on it! And he was right. With just a pipe and air cleaner, and the right download, this thing ran-fast. Not just for a Harley-but for a motorcycle. It had apes-which aren't me, and at 90mph on a side street, they made me feel uncomfortable. And when I got back, nothing had fallen off, it stopped when I put on the brakes, although I had to use the kill button to turn it off-couldn't find the key, dumb rookie. Must have been the Triumph racing jacket I was wearing. So take note, I think sooner than later, Spud may have a new demo rider.

So, before you think I've lost it, or have finally gone over to the other side, I haven't. Your Harley pride of the bar and shield are safe from my throttle twisting hands. You will continue to hear my bad jokes, and I will still tolerate yours.

So there. I even noticed the sun came up in the east again today, so your world is safe! And to prove it, on the traveling Viet Nam wall, Harley riders loved my Bonneville. And we talked riding, and how fast it is, and those who saw me ride Fred's bike were a bit enamored-how fast was it really one guy asked? His friend answered for me before I could-too fast for you! And we all laughed. When one Harley rider asked to borrow an adjustable wrench, I asked standard or metric? For a second he paused, and then laughed with us when he got it. the wrenches adjustable stupid! If I have hurt any wrenchophiles, I apologize. If you know me, in these hands no tools are safe with me. And I felt safe leaving my keys in my bike. No one from that group was going to steal my fast Bonneville! Or was it they didn't want oil to leak on their pretty leathers? Or couldn't find the key?

While doing hospital visitations last night, we took Gavin with us. On March 18th, they told his wife he had 5% chance of living, and would be a vegetable if he did. As we went to visit Conrad, another brain accident victim, with Gavin, the nurses were ecstatic over his healing! Miracle! Tears, hugs, and encouragement to them-from Gavin. And when he went in to see Conrad, reached out his hand with Theresa and prayed. And in the middle of this group, told via hand motions how much he loved his wife, Lynsay. Her tears said it all.

But while waiting for the elevator, we encountered two women in the waiting area. Talking to them, we got to pray for her husband Richard, and when I went in to pray for him, Gavin wanted to go with me. And put his hand out when we did, just like he gripped one lady's arm in the hallway when we prayed there! Voluntarily-because he wanted to!

You never know when God is going to bless you. In hallways, rooms, or even on the street. Step out of your church world today, and step into God's world. Meet some other people that Jesus died for. Ride a Harley-no egos were damaged during the test ride. Offer to pray when you encounter someone hurting in your path. Be patient and let God heal, He just invites me along for the ride. So I go. And take the ride of your life in Jesus.

Oh by the way, Gavin rides a Triumph. Just couldn't let that pass. I guess you really are what you ride!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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