at the signpost up ahead, next stop-the Comfort Zone

"What are you hungry for? Pizza?"

"Ah, maybe, but not Costco. I want some real pizza."

"How about Luigi's? We can cruise by Seaport Village after."

"I don't know. I'm not up for fighting traffic today."

"Let's see, Sammy's, Pizza Nova, Felippe's...."

"Nah, none of them sound good. Just call Costco, at least it's cheap..."

"Where do you want to ride to today?"

"Not sure, are we taking one or two bikes?"

"Two. Anywhere but Orange County, I was just there last week, and I need to do a bike swap next week."

"How about the Candy Store? Or riding out to Oak Glen?"

"Too much wind this weekend. You know we could always eat at El Cholo. come back on the Ortega..."

"Or down the coast. El Cholo sounds good, OK, Orange County it is..."

"We got invited to church again by Mike and Theresa. Said Evan Wickham is playing, supposed to be good."

"I don't know, that's such short notice. Maybe next week, unless you have anything else planned."

"No, but we keep putting him off. What do you have planned for tomorrow?"

"Nothing, but I don't wanna commit in case something else comes up. It's only church. No big deal. There is always something better to do."

"OK, let's just sleep in tomorrow, maybe go to a late breakfast. I just don't feel like doing something different anyway. Just more people making me feel bad. After work all week, I just don't need God messing with my life."

"OK-hey, I heard of a beer bash going on downtown. Let's try it."

"Now that sounds like fun. Let's ride down, party all day, then ride home."

"Sounds like a plan, much better than boring old church. Someday when I'm old and need God...nah, let's go have fun!"

And the more things don't change, the more things stay the same, to paraphrase "Engine" Charles Wilson. We all love to dream, to eat the best meals, travel the best roads, and some even have a desire for God. But when it comes down to it, it takes change. It takes a decision to do something different. To make something out of your life...but only a few do. We are told to "get out of our comfort zones," when really we are stuck in an "uncomfortable zone." It is just familiar to us, and we become like it, rather than dealing with a change in us. So I take exception to any pastor, teacher, or motivational guru who says we need to get out of our comfort zone. Hey man, it took me years to get there. And here's why...

The Holy Spirit is also known as the comforter. And for years, the old question would come up, "how do you know God's will for your life?" Great theological and philosophical discourses followed, and still do today. Until I got to know the Holy Spirit-1/3 of the Trinity. He is a person, and He is fully God. And I asked Him to guide and comfort me, and a funny thing happened-He did! I got to know God, and the more I do, the more I trust Him. And the more I trusted, the more I allowed Him to comfort me. I finally had the peace that Jesus promises surpasses all understanding. I was in a comfort zone with God, of God, and because of God. And I don't wish to be uncomfortable again. You can have your worry, your fears, and your doubts. I want the comfort that a loving God provides. And grace is the only way-and joy is the result. A fruit of the Spirit, and available to all. So when someone tells me to get out of my "comfort zone," you may not want to talk to me. You'll get it straight, and in love. You need the Spirit in your life! Submit to Him, and enjoy the things of God! Now that's comforting!

So if sometimes I appear to be careless, not worrying, and aloof, I'm not. I am really carefree. I am in God's comfort zone. I am sheltered from fear, worry, and all the other fun things that His comfort rescues me from. Yes, I still have problems, but knowing God is for me, that all things work out for my good, and that He loves me no matter what-yes, I have that peace. And it helps me make decisions. He knows my name! And I know His voice! Do you? If so, why do you live like you do?

And because God loves me, he has become the desire of my heart. And He fulfills the passions He has given me to ride, eat, and spend time with my wife. He has taken me from a dying church, to one that is alive, without asking, and without me knowing what was going on, and added life to my style. He reminds me even as I write, that where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. To do what I choose, and I choose GOD! And He lets the blessings flow, because I want them, and because He lets them. He calls it grace-a gift!

Do something again today for the first time. Take the road never ridden, just to see where it comes out. Eat at a diner that you passed by, but never stopped in. And accept an invitation to church. Surely 60 minutes of love can't ruin your precious schedule. Seek God, because it is the Spirit seeking you. It isn't your idea to seek God-it is God and His love calling you.

If you have a better offer than God, I encourage you to take it. But don't expect a comfort zone anywhere else but from God. Jesus Christ is the best offer you will ever have. Eternal life-a comforting thought. Freedom from fear-a comforting thought. And oh, the chimichangas at El Cholo, another comforting thought. All from a God who loves us. Welcome to the real comfort zone...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

to tell THE truth

One of the game shows that was popular in the 50-60's was called To Tell the Truth. Three people would come out, and each would identify themselves as the same person, "I am Jon Doe, I am Jon Doe," and "I am Jon Doe." Then a celebrity panel would ask them questions, trying to figure out who was the real Jon Doe, while the "Jon Does" would try to impress them that they were the real one. For they won money for each celebrity that voted for them, as they appeared to be telling THE truth. And as each was telling a truth, only one could be telling the truth. The others spoke well, knew facts, and would even appear more convincing than the real Jon, but only one was really telling the truth. And of course when we guessed right, we were the smartest ones in the room, they didn't fool us. But truth be told, more often than not, I went for the wrong one, the better dressed, the one who seemed to know more, the one who presented his case the best. The one who sounded like Jon Doe should sound. And I still do today. And I am not alone. How much of our life is based on the truth, not just what sounds right?

Question-why do we bash a news reporter or program when we don't agree with what they say? But then why do we quote them when we do? Because they agree with us have they become more fair and balanced? Or the most respected? Or the most listened to-just because they agree with us? How can they be both-or better yet, how can we? Did you ever realize the smartest people you ever meet agree with you? Do you realize we have become just like them, picking and choosing truth to fit what we want? We rarely say we agree with "them," they always agree with us, because we are sooooo smart. Because we share a truth, which isn't necessarily the truth. For instance...why don't you ever hear an up and coming entrepreneur quoting scripture that says "it's all going to burn anyway?" But why do you hear so many who have lost anything or everything finding solace in the same bit of scripture? Both are true, and both are truth. Only the situations have been changed-not us! It is our attitude and outlook that affects our belief system, and how we express it. It is called life.

So much of what we do is based on outlooks and attitudes. Smart people agree with me, stupid people don't. And we know who you are! Sadly, you know who we are, too. Because so much of our personal belief system is made up of what is convenient for us. Jesus died for our sins-I like that. But what about picking up my own cross? What about sharing Jesus with others? What about doing what I don't want to, even though God tells me it is best for me, and will bless others? Is that fair and balanced? Jesus tells us that there will be tribulation in our lives. For many, that is the only thing in their lives to back up their faith. Do we build a theology based on that? It is the truth, but out of context. We are also told we can do ALL things in Christ Jesus. Not what we want, but in obedience to God's will, we can do all things. Sorry if I just upset your theology. No name and claim here. Get your own Genie in the lamp.

Who do you base your life on? If not Jesus, you are in sin. Never quote your pastor, church,teacher, wife, and please don't quote me! Quote Jesus! Quote the Word, for they are truth. A truth that sets you free, and when done in love, a truth that cannot be argued. You can debate philosophy, politics, fashion, and how far from first place the Padres will finish this year. Even what cycle is the best for you. But you cannot debate love. For God is love, and was willing to send His own son to die for you, while you still hated Him, so that you may live. Is that the basis of your truth? Is He the most respected? What isn't fair about His love? Are you sure you want to be balanced with another truth? Or popularly wrong?

God wishes us to know this, and so it is the basis of Christianity. Who you say Jesus is will influence how you live, how you make decisions, how you worship-and what, and where you spend eternity. Let Jesus be the basis of all truth in your life. Let Him be the guiding force, and who you lean on. Let Him be the reason you are who you are-because He is who He says He is!

Many imposters will try, some even just to gain a prize. Others are after your very soul. Only Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. No opinions, polls, or "I think" involved. No whatever works for me in this situation. Someone you can believe in, someone who loves you enough to tell you the truth. Do you believe Him? Or has He become your enemy by telling you the truth?

Real Christians don't have to stand up-they already do in their lives for Christ. They stand out by their love. In love, from a loving God via His only Son. Good news-the gospel. Renew your mind and life today in Jesus. And let the truth set you free! And then go out "to tell the truth" to others! Will the real Jesus Christ please stand up!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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been there, done that? just where is there, and what is that?

About 20 years ago when 6 innings of softball took seven days to recover from, I decided I was more cut out to be a spectator then a participator. Between the pain in my knees, not being able to reach fly balls any more, and I dare you to prove they didn't move the bases another 5' apart just for me, I retired to the stands. With all the old people, kids too young to play, and where all the experts who never played but knew more than those of us who did resided. I was a stranger in a strange land for awhile, so I had to fit into their world, since I was the new kid in town. And even though I spoke the language, the interpretation was to come out different sometimes. But now looking back over the last 20 years, there are some advantages to spectating, that even when I was just warming a bench I couldn't take advantage of.

Football was once described as 11 men on the field in need of rest, while being watched by 40,000 people in need of exercise. So as I rested, I became one who needed exercise. Which I only got when it was my turn to go to the snack bar. If enough of your in need of exercise friends showed up, you may have to only make the trip once a game. While the rest of your new friends would each make an every inning run. Who says we didn't know all about teamwork? And as the ladies discussed such valuable items such as where to buy shoes and dresses, how to cheat another mother out of a better parking place when picking up their kids, and in-between "you're still eating!" comments, usually greeted by a grunt, if acknowledged at all, somehow the 70 minutes went fast. And you really weren't enjoying yourself, but for some reason couldn't get wait to get back, if only for more ammo to talk about your new peer group during the week. And to this day, I am still an avid spectator, which when added to my great skill of waiting in line, puts me into an elite group of men and women participating in the greatest of American sports. Ageless, color blind, and non-sex discriminating. I just hope that fat guy with his loud wife isn't there next week. Hey buddy, leave the oxygen tank and walker at home! "Honey, that man is sitting in my spot." Yup, watching is harder than I ever anticipated.

As in most things, I have also found in life some choose to only spectate, while others participate. A choice they make, and a choice sometimes they wish they hadn't. I marvel as I see the same folks in church each service, but never see them at any other church events. As spectators, they fill the pew, but eventually sit in their own PU. "I gave my 90 minutes to God," they think as they check off their attendance sheet, and bring their check. But sadly they never get out and get involved, and they never get to see where they tithe money goes. And inherent with this, they are always the first to complain about how it is spent. I prefer to participate. I want to be involved. I not only want to see where my money is going, I want to be part of it. When they talk about miracles that have happened, I am glad to say I was there. I am blessed to let God take me to nursing homes, hospitals, and rehab centers. I get to see people walk, learn to speak again, and so many times give their life to Christ. In church I get fed, on the street I feed others. I find I need both, but prefer to feed rather than be fed. But how do I get involved?

For years we attended the same church, and when God led us to another, we knew no one. And they didn't know us either, heh heh. So we signed up for a small group, and for discipling. But we actually met more people at the Harvest Festival. We took our bikes down, and while others just gave out candy, you got to sit on a motorcycle and then get candy. The line backed up at us, and soon moms, dads, and their kids left smiling. And encouraged to come to church. To learn about God. To see Jesus was not all rules and regulations to curtail your fun, but was there to encourage it and be part of it! And yes, motorcycles and those that ride them are welcome too! All in one busy afternoon, many were encouraged to go from spectator to participating. And enjoying the benefits that come with it. And soon spreading it to others-it is contagious!

I still spectate more than I should, but when out I am always looking for an opportunity to share the love of Christ. We let kids sit on our bikes, we wave to them in cars, and will talk to them when they ask questions. Kids get it, while parents hang back-must be something about leather and speed. But soon after the kids have warmed us up, the moms join in-why dads, are you always the last ones? For without talking to them, you will never have a conversation. With no conversation, no relationship. And with no relationship, no Jesus. All started because you got out and talked to others. You participated! And who doesn't want someone to compliment them on their ride?

Jesus only taught in the church. He spent His life on the road. Not a bad place to be. Both good places to be. And as He saw opportunities to minister, He did. So get off the bench today, and into the game of life. Get involved, and find out what you are missing! Exercise your faith in your daily life, and find yourself strengthened unlike no other exercise can do. Exercise your heart, which will wake up your mind, and then set your feet to walking. Or riding.

You tell me, which sounds better to you? "There goes Mike again on his motorcycle, wonder where he is off to now?" Or my view from the saddle, "poor Bill, still taking up space in the stands." If it works on the street, imagine how well it will work in church. You will never know until you try. Where you take up space is your choice. Keep that in mind when consider how it influences others. That seat you give up may not be the best one you ever had, you may just be getting the best seat in the house when you stop spectating-and get out and do it!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

at the top, the only way is down

So often in life we miss the big picture. We have become a society that starts at the top, and then works its way down. No one wants to go through the stages of learning that only experience can teach, let's start as a Master Tech by passing the test, then learn how to fix cars. Let's specialize in a certain aspect of the body, then learn how it works with the others. Or I'm a born manager, I'll learn the business from my subordinates as I go. Sound familiar? And then all too often we create more problems than we solve, and still have to find someone to turn on the lights so we can find our desk. Or our tools. So specialized or compartmentalized that unless there is someone there to help us, or follow us around with a mop and squeegee we will fail. And of course, it is never our fault. Lousy squeegee.

Sports has taught us to be a society of stats. ERA, RBI, and BA. People get paid big bucks for these. To perform. But the question that should be asked is-did you win? Did you know that some racers have won championships and never won a race that year? I have had techs who were great on one brand of car, but when switched luxury brands, had to relearn them all over again. What works on a Mercedes Benz may not work on a Land Rover. And I found out that Land Rovers are so weird who knows what it takes-just bring money and lots of it. But we don't wish to learn, just earn, so once we achieve a comfortable income level, we stay as we are. I had a tech once who wouldn't work on any newer cars, so his income dropped substantially. He was a whiz on the old ones, except no one ever brought them in. He eventually retired early, way off his retirement pace of money and time.

Talking with Ned and Missy yesterday, they had just added horsepower to their Harley. We talked of how dealers won't work on EVO motors anymore-they're more than 10 years old. And how when I hear about a HD mechanic being around for 40 years I wince, no way he could be current on new stuff. But worse is the new guy, who isn't taught to diagnose, but swap parts. And he can't work on anything older than him. So where do you turn for help? If you have one of the three people you never mess with-those that cut your hair, cook your food, or fix your ride-if you have one you can trust, they are better than gold. Just hope the price for their service doesn't go up accordingly.

Pride is a subtle thing sometimes. You can't brag about being humble, but you can have others do it for you. Same thing. I watch sadly as a new believer rises to the top, maybe based on being a celebrity, or his income value to the church. He excites some, incites others. And then in six months is gone. He found out the gospel isn't all about him, so he left. It wasn't a way to fame and fortune-so he went on to something that was. He needed physical and monetary gratification-not Jesus. And when he ran out of parishioners to prey on, instead of pray with-he left. Right before he was exposed, confronted and run out!

They never got past the "milk" part of being a Christian. Never got to taste the solid food of the spirit. And will continue to blame God for his failure, while others thank God for removing him. He was never part of the body. As Christians, at all and any level, we need to seek Jesus first. Without Him we are on a path, maybe not the path. And like a talented tech, we may have the education, but don't have the experience. We may have the tools, but not know how to use them. Or which part goes where. It takes the body to get us by! It takes Jesus.

So today I am thankful again for being part of a strong believing body of believers. I find I need them more than ever, and you do too. Brothers and sisters to encourage, to point you in the right direction. Consistent strong teaching to show us how to live, and show others. But mostly we need the Holy Spirit in our life-and a contrite heart to let Him lead us. It takes the Trinity of God to get us through. The Spirit to tell us we need Jesus, and to guide us. Jesus who is the way to His Father, and finally our Father who art in heaven-God! Please don't ask me to explain it-if I could it wouldn't be God! And you wouldn't understand.

Grow in grace and in Christ. Become part of a good fellowship that leans on Him, that depends on God, not their wealth, size, or celebrity. Make it personal-Jesus first. Then church. Don't confuse the two-that is why many blame God for their errors, when a church that has strayed from God is usually the cause.
Stay close to Jesus, stay in the word, and pray-all the time. Converse with God, and stay up to date with Him. And spend time in fellowship with others-you can never discount the power of the body when in the spirit.

Three things in life are for sure. You cannot have patience RIGHT NOW! You cannot brag how HUMBLE you are. And you didn't die on the cross for man's sins. Let the only one who did, and can, guide you. Grow in grace and in truth. You can't right click your way to heaven-it takes Jesus!

Why start at the end of the trip, when the ride can be the destination itself? It can be a long way to the bottom of the canyon. Trust God. Let's ride.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

if you think riding is dangerous, consider going to sleep tonight

It has been said that "I didn't quit riding because I got old, but I got old because I quit riding." Maybe that is why I always feel so young, the freedom of riding will do that to you. And yesterday I met two men who reminded me of that. I was crossing through an intersection, when I spotted a black motorcycle stopped for the red light. As I started pumping gas, I noticed the same guy next to me. "Hey, man, can I ask you some questions about your bike?" Nodding yes, he pulled over and waited. He was serious, but so was the Speed Triple R I was on. He went on to explain he had just gotten back into riding after being out for many years. And had no desire for cars anymore. He felt younger, had more energy, but needed more power than his CBR250 could provide on the highway. I let him sit on the S3R, and his smile was contagious. He had read about the bike, and wanted one-but had never seen one. After about 20 minutes of severe questioning-I've had lesser interrogations by a date's father, we parted, and he will call me. He can't wait to get a Street Triple, same weight as his, twice the power. But he kept emphasizing how he enjoyed riding again, felt younger, and how his attitude was much better. He was taking the long way home, and getting there in less time than the short way in his car. And wasn't tired when he arrived. The one complaint he had was his non-riding friends told him it was dangerous, trying to rob his fun. I told him we know that to be an unpleasant part of our lifestyle, but would rather die doing something we enjoyed than sitting on a sofa vegetating. Like his friends. Another huge smile showed agreement.

The other man was in front of me ordering his tube steak combo at Costco. When he saw my Triumph sweatshirt, he asked about the S3R. he just bought a new Tiger XC, and retired. And was enjoying riding, with all the time to do it. He and a friend were riding to Alaska this summer for 4 weeks, and then he was going to ride to Sturgis. He couldn't believe all the fun he was having, and places he had only read or dreamed about were on his itinerary of places to ride. He knew all the specs, had read the magazines, and knew all about riding. Now he was going to experience it first hand-and as he went on like a kid, I just listened. And enjoyed. And thought, "this guy is me!" He gets it! All the while his lunch partner listened, looking forward to his retirement of staying home with his wife. Guess which guy has life? And was looking forward to retiring more? No boredom or honey do's here-the road called, and there are so many roads, and only so little time. Let's ride!

Which made me think about another man I met at church. He has an old Meriden Triumph, and his wife will only let him ride it occasionally. Meeting her, I asked if she rode, and told me how dangerous they were. Where was Theresa when I needed her? So I asked what she did, and she told me she was in the medical field. "Great, so am I!" and as her attention piqued, I told her I was a patient. And watched as that same attention waned. But piqued again when I said I was glad to meet her, because I had a medical question.

"Is it safe for me to go to bed tonight?" I asked. "I have had four friends in 2 months die in their sleep, and didn't realize sleep was so dangerous." The husband smiled, as she grabbed his arm, and without answering walked off. He seemed like such a nice guy-just lousy taste in women. I'm glad I ride, that my wife rides, and that I will sleep soundly tonight-knowing I am not married to her! I could see this guy riding off and sending her a postcard from the road with no return address-for he wasn't going to return. I'd even buy the first stamp!

Fun is perhaps the common theme in riding. You enjoy a freedom of sights and sounds, of smells and feelings you don't in a car. Or can't. For cars isolate you from the world. And many have become like this in their walk with Christ. Just living out their days until heaven calls. Church, church, church, then repeat. But Jesus promises life more abundantly. Life worth the living. Life that when lived in the spirit is exciting! Yet when offered this, act like the woman in the medical field-she only sees the casualties. Not knowing she is one herself. My choice is to be as close to God as possible, to see all the action. To be part of as many blessings as possible, and walk with God-in His spirit! And to the "only go to church type," it appears too dangerous, too much adventure. Leave the fun to someone younger-I'm too old. But really the only safe place to be is where God wants you. So get out your pew, and leave your PU behind. Ask God to lead you, then let Him. So many blessings await those who choose to FOLLOW God, not just put in time. Like the man who was retired, or just got back into riding, they both looked forward to tomorrow. They had a reason to live, and a life to live. A hope and a future. Do you? Did you know that is one of God's promises for you?

Trust God today. Ask Him to allow you to do something for the first time-again. Then repeat. I was able to share the Lord with two men because I listened, we talked, and became friends. And as we agreed on riding, I was able to share how exciting Jesus is-just like riding. Left them thinking, now it is up to God to change their hearts.

Just two men who ride. Two men who enjoy life more because of it. Two men who when asked will tell you that riding is keeping them young. And will agree, that they wouldn't get old if they kept riding, but would get old if they quit. So get everything out of life God has for you. And ask yourself one question-why would anyone want to be like me? Jesus brings life and joy, and if you don't have it, are you enjoying being you? Get out and ride, at least get out! Spread the gospel through your life. And as God adds life to your style, remember no one has a testimony about sitting on a couch. Just two men, who get more out of life than some Christians, just because they ride-and won't ever get old.

Is it possible that the road to the fountain of youth begins on two wheels? I do know the way to life is Jesus. What good is fun if you don't enjoy it?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

it is well (Willa) with my soul

An old co-worker gave me a paperweight that said "Autograph your work with excellence." A trendy line to say the least, but I have used it many times in my professional career. I would tell my techs when a service advisor or manager, do the job so well that whoever works on the car next will be impressed by who worked on it last-you. Double check your work, I rather delay having the job completed by a day correctly, than have the customer return with a problem associated with the repair. At that point it is on us, and no one makes money on comebacks! Take the time to check your work! To me it makes sense, am I alone with this?

We recently had our RMZ450 engine rebuilt. They gave us a fair price, actually a very good price, and we were told how good the tech was that was rebuilding it. But yet when we got it back, it was leaking. And because we got such a great deal, they wanted to charge us for fixing the leak, or take the bike. We took the bike! Why? Because like I told them, your tech might be great, but my bike is leaking, you didn't fix the bike. And no matter the discount, I paid too much, because the bike isn't fixed to my expectations. I rather have paid full price and had it done right. And this "great tech," can't say anything good about him, sad to say. We will probably never go back to this dealer, which is sad, because they were our friends before they worked on our bike. All I wanted was my bike repaired-was that too much to ask?

Obviously, and we have been turned into a buyer beware world. From cars to blenders, and contractors to motorcycles, few people say what they mean, or mean what they say. And last Sunday one of the few who did passed on to heaven. I first met Willa when she was in Sharp Hospital in Chula Vista. Waiting to get well enough for heart surgery, I had been told about her and her condition by someone at church, so rode the 80 mile round trip to see her. When I first saw her, I thought maybe she was dead, or in a coma, but she was resting. After identifying myself, and asking what I could do for her, she she asked me to read Psalms to her. And so our relationship began. And for over four years, I watched as this lady of God cheated death many times, while selflessly being part of a Senior Nursing Home Ministry with Pastor Mark. She made quilts-I still have mine, and little drink and "stuff" holders for draping over the senior's walkers-all on her own money. And would visit 2-3 times a week to see her flock, and minister to them. She was part of our Friday night Bible study, and knew her Bible, and asked some great questions, always trying to get closer to God.

She and I were special friends, when she would be hospitalized, I was the first one she would request, and we shared so many great times in the Lord. Her last time was last month, and Theresa's kids made her a heart with "Jesus loves you!" written on it, and then all the kids put their hand prints on it. It is a ministry to them, and Willa called it her valentine, and it was on the wall in front of her bed for all to see. And when we would see each other, she always was grateful for it, and reminded us. She lived to share God, and to get closer to Him, and last Sunday she got her wish. She finally was with her Jesus!

I got the e-mail, and by the time I got to Palomar, she was in heaven. She had a DNR-do not resuscitate order, and drifted off painlessly to heaven. All the dreams she had were now reality. And when I saw Pastor Mark, I told him how I had prayed with her Friday, and her last words were thanks for her valentine's day card. But when I told him I was praying for God to take her home, he smiled and said "you both got your prayer answered." I must admit I cried a little, maybe for me, but she is home at last, and no more pain.

God has built something into us, a hole if you will, that only He can fill. A personal hole in our spirit, that only Jesus can fill. And when He does, the Bible tells us we are born again, and going to heaven. And we can't wait to get there! But when we do, we also leave another hole, a hole that won't be filled. For we each are given a specific job by God to do while alive. Big or small, it is so important to God only we can do it. And it affects others we may never know about. Mordecai Ham, for instance. Who's he? Only the preacher that led Billy Graham to Christ. For we don't know the impact of our ministries until we get to heaven. For like Paul said, we only see in a mirror dimly. Big words for a time when there were no mirrors. So Willa is home, and has heard the words "well done my good and faithful servant." The rest of us are still waiting, and working. Our job for God is not done. We must carry on, keep loving, and keep sharing the gospel of Jesus Christ with a lost and dying world. And when needed, use words. Or quilts, or whatever God has us to do in the moment. Just love, He tells us.

So autograph your life with excellence. The excellence of Jesus Christ. You will make mistakes, but honor them by making them right. Do the right thing, no matter the cost. Jesus did on the cross. And He still does for us today. Realize that our reactions can be more important than our actions, and honor your response in love. Take the time to be the only Jesus that person may see. Forgive, because Jesus forgave you. Knowing that love covers a multitude of sins-yours too. Willa knew these things, and showed them in her life. She loved God, and you could tell without words. And she was my friend-the only thing we had in common was Jesus. In other words everything.

And you know, that made all the difference. Let Jesus make a difference in your life. Show love today to someone. Do it for you, do it for Willa. But do it for Jesus, and soon you will hear the same well done from Him she did. DNR-it must be in your DNA, to get to Christ. We need to want heaven more than anything else-so much we are willing to die to get there. Just like our Lord and Savior did-Jesus Christ. So do not resuscitate me-I don't want to be here one second more than I have too. Dying in the Lord-it is truly well with my soul. It was for Willa.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

an open letter to my Dad

Dear Dad,

How great to hear your voice and spend some time on the phone with you. I had promised myself not to cry, but joy will do that to you sometimes-I know it did us. And it brought back some precious memories, reminding me that the best ones aren't stored in the mind, but the heart.

I was about 4, and we were living on Westfield Road. For some reason a toy had been promised to me, and I remember you and Mom-she wasn't Chick yet, discussing how you were down to your last $2, but wanted to get me a toy. Going down to Drug Fair that night, in the store which later would become Bud's Cycle Center, I remember not wanting you to spend more, even if your heart wanted you to. I didn't understand numbers, but knew 2. You bought me a Tootsie toy rubber jeep, with trailer, and I remember how much fun I had with it, and the love it was bought with. I was careful playing with, and later as I learned the story of the widow giving her two mites, all she had, I recalled the love in a simple plastic toy that night. I would have many more toys growing up, but I never forgot that one, or you taking me to get it. A gift from a loving father to his only son.

I also remember walking with Chick to get your paycheck at school. We would stop by Martin's, and she would get me a stick pretzel for a penny. Then up all those stairs to your classroom, and how all the big kids-7th graders, would watch. You always made me feel like the most important person in the class, as a quick hug would send us off to the bank with it. Maybe the most important time I ever spent in a classroom.

I remember Saturday mornings when we bought the new house, and going to breakfast at the cafe at the Flying A station with you and Henry. While you had coffee, I had a bottle of 7UP, with a straw! A big event for breakfast for a 4 or 5 year old. And then trying to stay out of your way, so you and Henry could work on the upstairs. I didn't help much more than staying out of the way, but it was time well spent, just being with my dad. Somehow 7UP would never taste the same to me ever again, and when I drive by where the cafe was, I always remember those Saturdays. I still can see the before and after of the upstairs in my mind, playing before the walls were there. Maybe just one more trip to Hand Lumber and the smell of freshly cut wood...those were the days.

And I remember being sick and coming home from the hospital. You built me a garage for all my Tonka trucks, stained it red, even putting a roof on it using real shingles from the house. A special place to park special trucks-quietly deciding which ones got special treatment and were parked inside. And not one of my friends had one-just me! Not another one like it in the neighborhood. Built by you. Just for me. Bruce and Barry would have loved to own it!

So when I asked what I could do for you, and you said pray, I know you knew I would, and had been. Because it came from the heart. For relationships between a Father and a Son are special. And we are promised a long, rich life if we honor our Dad-and our Mother. God set the example with Jesus, His beloved son. He gave Him to us, so we could spend time with Him forever-in a religion free relationship. And Jesus honored His Dad in everything He did, including dying for us so we could know our heavenly Father. And that is my prayer-that you let Jesus show you how to spend time with God. No special prayers, services, rules or regulations. No religion-it's that personal. Just a simple crying out of "Jesus help me!" From the heart. Because like you love me, God loves you. Only in a much deeper and more intimate way. I can't describe it-it's that personal!

So let me add an amen to all you ask from God. God wants to have that special relationship with you, and it is available right now. And all you have to do is ask! For the best gifts will always be the ones from the heart of a loving Father. Given in love. In the person of His son, Jesus.

I have been very blessed to receive, now let God give to you the gift of His son. For the love of a Father is best expressed through His son, so all I can say is "thanks Dad, I love you." And enjoy the peace that surpasses all understanding in Jesus. The best gift that anyone can ever give-or receive. For the best things start in the heart-and only grow from there. A place where the memories are richest, where no mind could hold them, and no words can ever fully describe them. A place where the 7UP only comes in bottles with a straw. Where $2 toys are priceless, and all the trucks say Tonka. Where the smell of sawdust in in the air, and running up the stairs in school is fun, because you know who waits for you there. Where everyday is Saturday, and you never have to grow up. A place that when all the so-called important things are gone-the heart will still be full. And we look forward to spending time with our Dad in heaven. The best gift of all. Amen.

love with compassion, you son,

Michael

matthew25biker.blogspot.com