the new F word, F-U-N!

It starts when we are young in the neighborhood. We play kickball, and watch as the bigger kids are better than us. "I can do that when I'm bigger," we think, and they are our heroes. Then it's Little League, with tryouts, and although you barely make it in, you think "my time is coming, in a couple of years I'll be bigger, too." Then it's high school-I may be just a freshman, but next year I can try out for varsity. College calls, and as we get older, the competition is tougher, and our view of our heroes changes. Where once the older kickball player was our hero, now we admire the varsity QB, and the hero worship goes on. Until we find that what we have been desiring will only change once we get there, or have attained it. And that the trip there was more fun than the destination.

I couldn't wait for a bigger bike, and when I went from 350cc to 600cc, my friend had a 750. So my next bikes were 900's, and the race went on. Each bike demanding as much from me as I demanded from it-both coming with a price. Big surprise when you discover the police don't care you can go 136mph-and send you to jail, impounding your bike. Or they don't care how fast you get to 60-you just are displaying speed, not racing-the ticket reads. And as the cost of ownership gets higher, we start to look back at how it was more fun on the 350-and with the new bikes I have to go faster to get the same thrill. It was once said of MG's, the iconic English sports car, that it was so much fun to drive because it always felt like you were going faster than you really were. Maybe that is why they aren't around anymore, and why when I see kids playing kickball I wish to join them. Not to be the hero, just to play-and have fun again!

So I wish to declare a campaign to bring back the F word. F-U-.....N-FUN! That we start to enjoy what we have, and enjoy those friends and family God has blessed us with. Rather than waiting for that next promotion, next trip, next faster ride-let's enjoy what we have now. And smile-one of the key ingredients to fun is revealed in a smile. It is just like Gomer said when riding in Barney's new car, "I'm sick as a dog, but having the time of my life." Let's have fun-for today is the time of your life! Without getting sick in your new car.

God tells us to be happy with what we have. Enjoy today-even with all the problems, for each one reminds us of the need for Jesus in our life. Let Him be your hero-try to top Him in anything! I'll take Him anytime for my kickball team. Or baseball. What a cleanup hitter. But yet in life we treat Him like the freckled, red hair kid who can't catch, when choosing sides. "You take Him, I have a good team today," and then put Him in right field. Where somehow all the balls go, and He catches them all. And you find out, "He isn't so bad after all," just give Him the chance.

He works in real life, too. Trust Him in small things, and soon the big things become small when He is in charge. He knows your needs, so who better to meet them? So don't put Him in right field, where you think He won't do any harm-you mean He isn't a set of rules and thou shalt nots? Put Him where the action is-build a team around Him. In life we call it church, and with so many churches failing or changing names and leaving Him out, why not build your life around the one who is the rock? The solid foundation? The one of whom God says if He doesn't build the house, they labor in vein? And start to enjoy life with Jesus. Enjoy church, enjoy the things God has blessed you with, and have FUN!

So that's my campaign speech. Elect Jesus. Bypass all the politics, and the broken promises and dreams of life. Trust God and watch as this thing called enjoyment enters your life, and vocabulary. Where you enjoy life at the speed you are going, no matter how fast it feels. Look forward to tomorrow, because there is so much joy in today. Put Jesus first. Just like the Bible says-and He'll add everything else. And at prices you can afford...

Remember when full throttle was fun? Here's your chance... trust God. And enjoy life. What a teammate. Why wait? Hey, what good is fun if you don't enjoy it?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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there is always a better way

I love riding in California's central coast area. Great roads, no people, and so many ways to choose. I even like Hiway 101, if I need to make time. Yet so many have missed this area when going from LA to San Francisco, thinking boring I-5 is the best way to make time. Or even just going to Monterrey, there are better roads than the 101-or to me even the 1. But you need to get out and try them-the road you are taking may be OK, but there are better ways to go. Are you making time, taking your time, or out for a good time?

A few years back we started taking Hwy, 25 into Hollister. A beautiful 2-laner, with 15mph curves and 100mph straights. But a bit desolate-no towns, gas stations, and sometimes others for over 60 miles. Then we started taking Indian Valley Road to it, out of San Miguel, and by-passed most of the 101 all together. Adding 40 miles, and over an hour to the trip, but avoiding traffic-unless you don't consider cattle and farmers traffic. And still made good time-even better when you consider the road as the destination. But although I have told many about these roads, and places to eat, they never try t hem-in fact it seems they avoid them, and then complain about their ride. Same old freeway, eat at Denny's, and follow the other riders. When the decision to make one right hand turn can change their ride, their attitude, and take them places they only read about-or at least look at the pictures of. Or really trust the advice, and detour to Parkfield, pop. 37, for a great rancher's lunch. Meat, potatoes, and lots of them. You will not find any clean boots here. And yes, bikers are welcome.

These are roads that the locals use, and sadly guys in bike shops don't know of them-sometimes they are too local. But when you ride, there are always so many roads, so little time, and you need to decide which road you are going to take. A decision that will set the tone for your day, and maybe days to follow.

But who do you trust when asking directions? I have found touring riders are the best source for good roads-older and experienced riders the best. I don't mean guys riding full dressers, but the guy with a backpack bungeed on his high mileage bike, who rides the road for enjoyment, rather than just the quickest way between two points. For awhile, my walk with God was like that. Show me the quickest way to heaven. One service a week, and then leave me alone. I'm OK, and so is the road I was on. Then I started listening to Jesus, and instead of just reading the word, I asked the spirit to guide me. And I started going places with God I had never been. Even old roads, familiar roads became interesting again. And although my destination was still the same, God gave style to my life, rode with me on the trip, and I began to see more blessings. To see the miracles that so many pray for, but won't open the door to their heart when they come knocking.

For many their Christian walk is all about church. That's OK. That is where Jesus taught. But out on the street, out where life was, He ministered. We find Him on the road, most of His life, and at places from the lakes, to the beach. Meeting fisherman as He went, and sitting with sinners at public places-diners to us. He stopped by parks, and met the people where they were-He didn't tell them to wait for Him-He went to them, and then said "follow me!" Sound familiar? And your answer is?

The best roads, best places to eat, and the best blessings are out there. Missing them? It just may be the road you're on. Try an alternative route today-start with asking God-it's called prayer. And then follow His directions, and maybe get involved in a Bible study. Pray with others at lunch. Visit a hospital, or just meet others as you go. The ministry of just being there is always looking for new people, you just have to be there-wherever there may be. But it starts with taking another road, a new way. It starts by trusting God. And how will you know? It takes your obedience, or you will never know. it takes following Jesus. So pick up your cross-and follow Him!

How long did it take for you to get saved? See how important obedience is. Listen now-the road awaits. Start local, and soon the city is local, then the county, then the state, and finally the US of A. A deeper walk with God awaits all those who get out and onto the road He shows you. It may be scary-but hey, I've seen you ride. No fear in riding with Christ. So ask Him today for direction, then follow it. Back roads await. Less traveled, but more rewarding. Sit at the counter and listen-get to know people-then comment. Try the daily special, and the larger portions it comes with. If the cook's name is on the door, expect the best. You may arrive at your destination a little later, but it sure beats the hurry up and wait in the motel watching TV trip. Good food, good times, and a great destination. With the ultimate travel partner-Jesus. There is always a better way-but His ways will always be the best. There's this road I know....so take it!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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characters with character

I have observed over the years how people react to stressful situations, and know that their reactions tell more about their character than their actions. In other words, how do they handle the situation they were placed in-and under stress their true character shows. I offer three examples of character under fire-

We all remember the dates November 22, 1963, and September 11, 2001. The question is often asked, "where were you on those dates?" But while watching a show about the Secret Service men who were assigned to Kennedy in Dallas that day, I gained an important insight into the event, and the men involved. First, they loved the President and his family, with each member assigned an agent. And how when he was shot, they jumped into action. Training played a big part in it, but just as you cannot legislate morality, you cannot mandate heart. I watched as the man assigned to Caroline had to tell her she couldn't go to a party. Not able to tell her about her dad. How the man assigned to Jackie showed compassion as she climbed over the trunk to retrieve part of her husbands skull. How he stayed with her, and listened, and showed care. And how when she wouldn't let go of her husband, he realized she didn't want anyone to see him like he was, so put his own coat over the President's head. Then she let him go. You don't teach things like that-they come from inside-it is called character. Which only shows when needed, but is always there at the ready. No one planned for this to happen-again their reactions outweighed the actions of Lee Harvey Oswald. Or as God puts it, "where sin abounds, does grace abound even more." Grace is not an emotion, it is deeper-it has to be experienced. It only comes from God.

September 11 was a beautiful summer day. And then the terrorists tried to carry out their plans-and almost did. Two planes into the Twin Towers, and one into the Pentagon. But the heroes of Flight 93 prevented the final disaster-which was meant for either the White House or Capitol. The passengers, 40 people who were strangers when they boarded the plane, showed their real character when the hijackers tried to take it over. Todd Beamer's words "Let's roll!" have become immortal in our memory of how they united and gave their own lives to save the nation. No one knew they would affected history that morning, but today we show honor and respect to and for them-and their families. True heroes-again scripture coming to life as we saw "greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another." If you want a witness of Jesus Christ's character, look no further than these brave men and women. They didn't panic in a panic situation-now that's character!

For me June 25, 2012 is also an important date. It is the date of my open heart surgery, to repair an aneurism on my aorta. But when Dr. Walinsky got into the chest, and went to solve the problem, he found my heart filled with pus from the infection. And when he touched my aorta, it exploded. Yet he didn't panic, in a panic situation. He kept his cool, and in a situation where you bleed to death in less than 30 seconds, today I am alive and well-with my Dacron aorta. He showed character under pressure, true his training and experience helped, but in all three of these cases, God's grace was there. He had the right men there for the Kennedy's, the right people on Flight 93, and the right doctor for my surgery. Although they caught us all by surprise, they were no surprise to God, who had the right people in the right place, at the right time.

But the greatest show of character came on a yet to be called Good Friday some 2000 years ago. When Jesus went willingly to the cross, giving up everything, knowing that what He did had to be done, and that a loving God-His Father, would restore Him and resurrect Him. The same promise He offers us-if we believe and let Him. Today you will undoubtedly be challenged, maybe something small, which can be harder to deal with than a big tragedy. Remember Jesus and His character. Remember how it played out on November 22, September 11, and June 25. Remember how it is played out everyday in your life. And give it all up to Jesus.

You are never alone in any situation, for He never left you, and nothing surprises Him-He knows and is the future. Now the question is-what is the character you show to others? Your witness is more important than going out witnessing. Witnessing is all about our actions, being a witness of Jesus Christ is all about His actions in us, so we can portray Him and His love-and encourage and strengthen others. For God so loved the world....I call that character.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Thunder on the Mountain by Fr. Al-founder of Flight 93 Memorial Chapel, and my friend

Tread gently on our hills, be aware of where you are. You are welcome here among us. We were quiet once, secluded and alone. These mountains and our checkered fields are not much changed. Their appearance endures in much the same way as it has been for a very long time. Something is different now. It cannot be explained or defined. Our world is shattered and we have been touched even as the entire world has been shaken. From the terrible events of that September morning have emerged Giants who are specially honored here. Strangers to us all, they have become the Heroes of our towns, our people, of our nation and the world. In the final moments of their lives, they demonstrated courage, strength, purpose and commitment. Their message is clear: to be free, completely free, let no one, let no thing take control. We are Captains of our Destiny, Masters of our soul. We can make a difference in our own lives, we can make a difference in the destiny of the world.
These Heroes of Flight 93 have hallowed our land. We honor them and hold in our hearts a special gratitude for what they have done for us all. Their relatives and friends have walked among us, and for awhile we shared their grief. Our lingering grief is the sadness of the Nation and it will make us stronger and more determined to adhere to the principles that have made our Nation great. These are the very principles guiding the Heroic Passengers of Flight 93. Theirs is the Spirit of America, the spirit of human nature to be free.
There is a sanctity here. Be aware of the silence in your heart. Remember what they have done. Treasure the gift they have given, together with so many others who have demonstrated bravery, so many of whom will never be known to us. Honor the sacrifice they have made, and take from here the memories of your life. Honor this land and this place. It is sacred to us now. We see our sky in a different way, we travel our countryside in awe. There are tears in our hearts. We will remember the Thunder that has shaken our mountains. They traveled our sky for a moment, they have touched our land forever.
Tread gently on our hills, Welcome Visitor, tread gently. You are on hallowed ground.

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the kingdom of dry

The story goes of a tadpole floating in a pond, when he looks up and sees a frog sitting on dry land. At first he wonders what the frog is, but seems more amazed that the frog is not in the water. So the two start talking, where the tadpole is told by the frog that he used to be like him. That he too was once restricted to water because of his tadpole condition, but one day a change came over him, and today he is a frog. And he can go on dry land, because of this change. And dry feels good-you can bask in the sun and get warm, and a whole new world he never knew about existed.

But then it was the tadpole's turn. "Tell me about this change," and what do I have to do to be able to get out of the water, and into the kingdom of dry?" The frog paused for a moment, not sure of how to explain it, but then the words came to him. "You must go through a change, one that I cannot explain-it is very personal. Your appearance will change, like mine, but it is an inner change. You lose some of you, like your tail, but you gain a new freedom. You can get out of the water, and onto dry land. But you cannot do it until you are changed. You must be born again to inherit the kingdom of dry."

Many of us were once like the tadpole, stuck in a pond. But then we came to Jesus, our hearts were born again, and we began to experience the freedom in Christ. Before where we thought our world was it, we found there was something new and exciting in Christ. We could go wherever we desired, not restricted by laws, or sin. A freedom we could not explain, a dry land where we could expand our horizons, where we could experience all God has for us, not just our environment. But without the inner change, that only God can provide, when the spirit dwells in us, can we experience this freedom.

I was talking with a friend, whose wife is having severe emotional problems. And it is taking a toll on their marriage. He is just as guilty as he has become passive. She rules the home, a lesson here for all. Both have been born again, but behave like the tadpole, stuck in their situation. God offers ways out, but they are his ways, not ours. They are getting transferred, and they think a change of environment will be the answer. She is happy now, so he is happy. Based on emotions and situations, not on God. Yet they remain the same, unwilling to change. Ever notice in the doctor's office all the sick people, it is not the office that cures you. If so, we would have one in our homes.

When Jesus tells us to pick up our cross, and follow Him, we have to put down something before we pick up our cross. We have to lay down our burdens, trust Him, then follow Him. His love is not dependent on environment, and loved us while we were still sinners. Just like the tadpole theta changes, God loves us where we are, and wants to change us. We just need to let Him-one of the key ingredients of grace. We are saved by grace, but how many us didn't want to change and rejected it. Only when we let Jesus into our hearts were we born again.

And to those who don't see miracles, God hasn't stopped. You stopped obeying. They happen out there small and large all the time-put down whatever you are carrying and again-pick up your cross. It is at the cross the victory was won-never lose sight of it.

The choice is yours-stay a tadpole, or become a frog. Jesus puts it simpler-you must be born again to inherit the kingdom of God. Will you pray with me now-"thy kingdom come, thy will be done," as Jesus directs, and watch as the miracles begin, or better yet as you begin to notice them. Jesus' love is the first miracle, the second is your becoming born again. Find that old cross you laid down, and pick it up and follow Jesus today. Wherever He leads-follow. The pond or problem you are stuck in will require a new direction to escape it. He tells us He is the way, the truth, and the life. Nothing else you follow will get you to heaven.

Whether you are stuck in a pond, or stuck in a situation, look to the cross-pick up your cross and follow Jesus. Out of obedience, and fully enjoy the love He offers. It may not be easy, the road may be rough. But isn't that why you have a suspension on your motorcycle-to smooth out the bumps? Follow Jesus no matter the route, and experience the kingdom of God. Firsthand. Good advice from someone who was changed, just ask the frog. You have now been told the truth. Now, what's your excuse?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

earning the right

Biker Jim and I were discussing the quality of doctors during one of his hospital stays. We were joking that whether #1 of 312 graduates, or #312 of 312, they were both doctors. When in walked his nephrologist while we were laughing. So we asked him where was his class ranking, after he inquired of our smiles. We must have been suspicious-no one smiles at Palomar. Then he smiled, back at us, and said he didn't have a class ranking-his college was pass/fail. We only hoped he had passed-courage left us at that moment and we didn't have the nerve to ask.

But listening to him talk about his years of his years of interning, and his various degrees, and continuing schooling, it was obvious he had earned the right to be a doctor. So we felt better. He had some 20 years and hundreds of hour of surgery experience, something that cannot be taught, but only acquired through experience. I still have never heard of a course being taught on experience-although many try to by-pass this valuable teaching tool. Start at the top and work your way down, seems to be their mantra, and sadly it shows. Money will buy an education, it just doesn't guarantee you'll learn anything.

When Moses came down with the two tablets containing the Ten Commandments, his face shone like an angel-he had been in the presence of God. But with time it faded, and to hang onto the former glory of it, he chose to wear a mask. If anyone asked, it was to protect the people, but the truth was it was to hide the faded glory. A mask that too many wear today. Moses had earned the right to represent God, but on God's terms not his own. A characteristic I see today, and have been guilty of myself. I see groups of people being taught how to witness, and then go out, thinking this education gives them the right. Some think because my parents are saved, or I went to church religiously, or I graduated from seminary, I can do it. But first it takes being born again, a right given as a gift by Jesus, then you have the right to be called a child of God. It takes a submission to the holy spirit. Would you trust an old biker just because his nickname was Doc? So why would you believe someone with good credentials? Or a title? Why not trust God, what about His credentials?

Yet many walk today based on experience, knowledge, or pride. Faded glory, not the jeans. Where once God worked through them, when they trusted God, now they know it all, and are unreachable. This is particularly sad when the person is called a pastor. Sooner or later, his failings will be your fault. When all this time you should be trusting God. I get annoyed when some well meaning Christian comes up and preaches to me. I guess I don't fit the profile of what they think a Christian should be, and I get offended when confronted. As do many other non-Christians, who feel persecuted by this type, and another reason they would never go to church. Why not trust God, and let the spirit guide you? Remember when you were a young Christian and you had all this faith, so you were obedient? Remember when you didn't try to please God, but found God pleasing? Remember before religion entered your life, when it was all about Jesus, and your life was a witness-you didn't have to go out witnessing? Before you were the main topic? Before you became aware that a walk with God wasn't a class ranking, but a pass/fail. And you passed!

Because we have earned the right according to Jesus to be called sons of God, extend the same courtesy to others. Earn the right to share the gospel-listen to them, don't preach. The second you start preaching to me, I'm outta here-I don't want to hear it. I rather have my needs met, by God, and be shown His love-not your zealousness. Which can run contrary to what the spirit wishes to do through you.

So take the time to get to know God. "I don't know," is a good answer when you don't know. Remember it is all about Jesus. He'll give you the words-if you listen. Which is what you want your audience to do for you. Leave the mask for Halloween, and be yourself in Christ-a full time job for most of us. And let the spirit work through us, and watch as God uses us for the kingdom. You cannot teach experience, but you can build a relationship with Jesus. Get to know Him, or better yet, let Him let you get to know Him. As long as it is all about Jesus, you have the right agenda. And the only agenda to have.

If your idea of evangelism is wearing Christian t-shirt, or having a bumper sticker on your car, a backwards collar, a title, or a patch on your back, get to know Jesus first. He cares more about what is inside of you than what you think you show. And like any good surgeon will remind you, all healing works from the inside out. Which also happens to be how God works on us. Just ask Moses, the mask you hide behind is evident to all but yourself. I prefer to hide behind Jesus. I want to know Him, and others to know Him too. Earn the right to share Him. "Who was that masked man?" was popular long before the Lone Ranger. So don't be a lone Christian, and never have to say about Jesus, "and we never got a chance to thank Him."

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the 200 pound toddler

This is a story more about my wife than me, but really about my friend Jesus Christ. Although I, and we were central players, it is about God's love that took us through. I seem to be sharing a lot about my open heart surgery, but it has made a bigger impact on my life, and those around me, than I anticipated. In church last night, I wondered if I had become a drama queen, thinking about what we had been through, but God reminded me that I have putting Him first, giving Him the preeminence. That what seemed emotionally was drama, to Him was worship. Here are just a few of the scenarios to back Him up. Never once did we doubt God had everything under control. And yes, that is me in the photos. You have been warned.

Jesus tells us that when we are weakest, that God's strength is made perfect. And also whoever takes care of the least of them, is doing it to Him. From the time I went to urgent care in Durango, to the two days in Mercy Hospital-which I thought was two hours, to my being life flighted, to my surgery, and then recovery, I was the weakest. Unable to function, yet totally dependent on those around me. Yet I had this peace-way beyond an emotion, or that words can describe. I had to be kept on life support, as my body could not sustain itself. And it took the special care of nurses, surgeons, and specialists to keep me going-all provided by God's grace.

At first I had to be taught to swallow-it seems you can lose the ability, and all food goes into the lungs instead of the stomach. I was allowed 2 small, ice chips per hour, which my son had to feed me. I was so weak I couldn't pick up a spoon-what had happened to the hands that used to grip the throttle? I couldn't control my body functions, and when finally allowed to get up and walk, it seemed my legs didn't hear the order. The simplest of things I used to do without thinking, were now huge tasks. I was the 200 pound toddler, who had to be changed, fed, and taught to do basic functions all over again.

When released, I had to ride in the back seat only-if an air bag went off it could kill me-the impact on my sternum, which was broken during surgery, would not take the impact. Next time you get in or out of a car so effortlessly, for me it took time. The same getting in and out of bed. I was not allowed to push, pull, hug, or extend my arms-try functioning without doing that!

And here is where my wife was the ultimate nurse. She had to shower me, and wash my hair-while I could only sit on a chair. We both got excited the first time I stood in the shower, or washed my hair by myself. I couldn't shave, or even comb my hair. I had to rest both elbows on the table to eat, and couldn't cut any meat I ate. And when feeding myself, so much food would never make it from the spoon into my mouth. No the food on my shirt wasn't lunch, it could have been breakfast-from yesterday. Think of a two year old-and that was what I was reduced to. Unable to do anything for myself, I was totally dependent on those around me. And thank God for my wife, who went way beyond the call of duty. Even administering my antibiotics through my piccs for a month. I place the blame for her care directly on God-for without the love He had for me, and the love He gave my wife for me, I would have been reduced to just another patient in rehab. Today I have a greater appreciation of grace, mercy, and having been humbled, a stronger dependence on God. Who never left me-or forsook me. From ER to helicopter to surgery to rehab, I was never alone. Nor was my wife.

Today this 200 pound toddler can feed himself. I can shave, shower, and shampoo again. I can put my arms around my wife, and hug her. And I still spend precious time with God. But I can never find the words to thank her for being there. Wives take note-the vow says for better or worse, through sickness and health, till death do us part. My wife has seen the worse, the sickness, and was faced with death. Only Jesus was her strength-make Him yours. Husbands-give your marriage over to Jesus-and love your wife as He loved the church-giving His life for it. I didn't have much to give, but I gave it all-and today my vows are still honored.

You may not always be in love with your spouse, but always honor your vows. Just like God honors His word, and His promises, not because of who you are-but because of who He is. I love my wife because I loved Jesus first, who loved me first. I have seen His strength made perfect in me, and seen my wife grow in the love of Christ. From child to adult, to husband, then to 200 pound toddler-I need Jesus in every aspect of my life.

Today I am alive because of God's miracles. I cling to that. My body continues to heal, but my soul is growing at an alarming rate. Get close to Jesus and stay there-today because of His love, I can truly say "it is well with my soul." And to my wife-I love you-more than words. I see Jesus in you daily-what more can a husband ask for.

love with compassion,

your 200 pound toddler,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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he calls me friend, what do you call him

It was my first real job in the summer of 1970 that I met and made friends outside of my neighborhood or school. You never forget your first real job, not counting cutting yards or having a paper route, especially when you get you first paycheck. Let's see, 40 hoursX $1.50 hour = $60.00. Only taking home $55 was my other intro to real life, as taxes were now a part of my job experience, and would be for the next-well the rest of my life. But it was the friends made that summer, working for the Union County Park Commission that over time would prove more valuable than those first paychecks. From cities and towns throughout Union County, we were from different backgrounds. I had learned I had played basketball against Fred Allen, a tall, black kid from Plainfield, where only 3 summer earlier the tanks filled the streets in a riot torn city. Pete and Rich were the Wally Cleaver type guys from Westfield, richer than all of us. We could tell by the car Pete's mom dropped them off in every morning. I befriended my first American Indian, Fred Moore, in these pre-Native American times, and years later at a dance when we met embraced as long time friends. Kyle Looney, if ever a last name fit a person, just made you laugh by saying hello, with a permanent smile, and looking like a young Bill Cosby. We had to make him work by himself sometimes so we could get work done, he was so funny. And Steve Pruden, who was the first hippie I met, and later when I would meet him again would become close friends. He became an aspiring blue grass musician, and I spent many nights at his place while he practiced, he and his friend Pete finally opening at a college for Vasser Clemmons. There were others, but these guys touched my life, and heart. They were my friends, with only the iris beds of Green Brook park and the Union County Park Commission our common bonds. I still remember the arguments over who was better, Rare Earth or the Carpenters as we listened to old AM radio. I still enjoy both today, with a nod going to the Carpenters. And yes Fred, no one I knew ever danced to them. But while you were dancing, I was holding hands and....

Theresa and I have been black sheep among the Black Sheep, Harley Davidsons for Christ for years. We hang with them, minister with them, and attend their breakfasts. When I was down last summer, and my bike still in Durango, Ken and Ned went up and got it for me, without being asked. I stopped by their meeting last night to thank them, and stayed for their meeting. Where one topic was their Downed Biker Fund. And raising money for it, and the rules set up to dispense it. I fought the tears as the rules stated you must be in HOG or Black Sheep, meaning you are a Harley owner. We're not. The tears came, thankfully in the dark, as they had given me a large check when we needed it while I had open heart surgery. And I do not qualify for it according to the rules. They had stepped outside of the rules, saw a need and filled it. I know they were as blessed giving as we were receiving. When joking about two Harley guys with a Triumph in their trailer, Ned told me "we wore masks to conceal our identity." Sorry guys, no mask will ever conceal the smiles behind them, or the love contained in them. Friends of the highest degree, putting their words into action-it's called love.

I wonder, how many of us share Jesus with others, and would introduce him as our friend? Lord and savior-yes, because He is, but He also calls us His friend. In a fallen world where each person has his own idea about God, how many times do they just need a friend? And while we burden them with our limited knowledge of the Bible, we fail to listen and see the need. Can we just be a friend to them, showing them a side of Jesus they don't hear about? Think of that next time you have a chance to show His love in action. Jesus is our friend, but more importantly we are His. We all need more friends, and some have none at all-be theirs, and show the love of Jesus. For while we were yet strangers, He died for us. I was once a stranger to Him, ask Him to be your friend today. He says he will stick closer than a brother, wow. Remember that next time a brother offends you-Jesus won't and don't!

Over the years I have made many friends, which are ultimately only acquaintances. So it is with a great regard I use the word friend, and get very possessive and protective of them. I often wonder what happened to those friends from that summer of 1970, I don't intend to lose touch with my close friends. And I will never lose my friend Jesus-for He will never leave me, or forsake me. Get to know Him today... If you don't know Him, let me tell you about my best friend-who just happens to be the Son of God...I call Him Lord and Savior, He just calls me friend.

And being a black sheep among Black Sheep will always remind me of the love they showed us...I call them friends.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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