secret millionaires-with God it is no secret

I once watched a show called Secret Millionaire while channel surfing. Not a show I would normally watch, or stay up for, but it caught my attention. The premise is a millionaire goes undercover in a poverty stricken neighborhood. They don't tell who or what they are, but grow into the situation. And they find many people doing so much with so little, and find out that although they are rich in money, or valuables, they are poor in values. Something we all can relate to, only pride keeps us from a full disclosure. But at the end, they come clean, and admit who they are, and give these "good Samaritans" money to carry on with their works. To aid in their cause, and many times it is a blessing. I tend to look between the lines, and see the real problem, or how money doesn't always solve problems-just look at our Federal Government. It takes a heart, and a vision, that these people may or may not know they have to minister, and a reliance upon God-who just like the rains, His grace falls on the just and the unjust.

I have known people over the years who have had rich relatives, the proverbial rich uncle. Who in times of need has always been there. Benevolent, caring, and loving-checkbook in hand. I have had the benefit of being given when needed, and blessed abundantly by family, friends, and others. Really blessed when I came to know that all blessings come from God-sometimes they just take different routes, and different messengers. But the source is always the same-God! So why do we look for the proverbial rich uncle, or to the benevolence of suffering friends, when we have a rich father we can go to at any time?

When God gave me a vision for ministry years ago, He promised to meet all my needs. When advised by others in ministry to send out support letters, God told me no. He said "if you ask for it, it is not a gift. And I like to give good gifts." And so He has, we do more with less than ever before, and continue to do so to this day. When I was sick and had open heart surgery, God provided even before we could ask-or pray. Although this caught us by surprise, it was no surprise to God, and He still meets all our needs. When Theresa mentioned we would need a place to stay, a friend told her of another friend with a house we could use-free! Pat called it"God's House" and was blessed we could take advantage of it. Not knowing she was a secret millionaire. When Tina put us on a prayer list, we know her in Escondido, but was living in Phoenix, a friend in Tennessee saw it, called her friend in Albuquerque, and they brought us meals. And then another friend of hers did also. More secret millionaires-and blessed servants of God. From the man who rented us a car, and waived the $250 drop off fee to the pharmacist who gave us the New Mexico resident discount-saving us over $200, these secret millionaires were put in the right place at the right time by God. In some cases when our needs were known, we had to use discretion on which offer to take-such is our loving God.

So to all you secret millionaires out there, a huge thanks. Our prayer-that you were as blessed giving as we were receiving. So take heart-which now has a much deeper meaning to me, and allow God to meet your needs. He wants to, and through Jesus all things will be met according to His riches and glory. Let Him decide how to meet the need-but be willing to accept the way He shows you. As we learned His resources are boundless, and came from many people we never had met or would not have expected. Sadly some we had expected to help, never answered the call. We also learned that "call me if you need anything" took the person to answer the phone when we called. Not so with God. From Dal driving Theresa to Albuquerque-only 250 miles that night, to Pastor Pat giving great counsel, and having his ministry offer us a car, to the hospital and the free motel rooms, PJ of PJ's Triumph, and so many other little things we saw from God's hand, we not only renewed our faith, but stepped into obedience-and the blessings continue.

But you must let them. Like salvation, which is by grace, to fully experience God's grace you must trust Him. Then you must obey-no matter what your past experiences tell you-don't lean on your own understanding of a situation. Look to the cross-where the victory was won, and rejoice in it! And watch as the story of Jesus Christ becomes real in your life, and a part of your life. Don't ever say no to God, or to a secret millionaire He has sent to bless you. You not only rob yourself of the blessing, but rob those also who choose to bless you-in obedience to God!

So to all of you who love God-thanks for being a secret millionaire. Bet you didn't know you were. And remember, it doesn't always mean money-letters from inmates who missed my letters when I was sick were a priceless blessing. Phone calls, e-mails, and messages from some who I haven't seen in 25-40 years meant more than a big bank account. So let your richness shine through in love, just like Jesus does. Who by the way owned nothing-remember He had to borrow food, to bless others, rode on a borrowed donkey into Jerusalem, and even was laid in a borrowed tomb. But what He gave could not be measured in dollars. So don't you either-the riches of Jesus in you are just waiting to pay a dividend-let them! Maybe today is the day that we see you as that "secret millionaire" that God so lovingly provides to meet someone else's need. According to His riches and glory....

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25bike.blogspot.com

the same, only different

Believe it or not, we are all more individual than we care to admit. But believe it or not, we are even more alike-and we hide from admitting it. It seems that the more that we desire to not conform with the ways of the world, that we all become the same, just different. Not right or wrong, just different, a concept hard to accept, and even harder to live with.

As I watched people celebrating, yes celebrating via dancing and singing, at the Feast of Trumpets Celebration, so many from other churches were attending. And my heart was happy to see Jew and Gentile, Baptist and Lutheran, and those who just love Jesus together. In the spirit. But I was also saddened, thinking ahead how when they return to their own church, and own religious dogma, they will not be able to share about the Feast. It will fall on deaf ears, or rather a dead spirit, because they are not in it. They are stuck in a fellowship where the pastor, or church board, or denomination sets the tone-not God, yet they are family in Christ. They have the same amount of grace given to them, yet they don't accept it, and miss out on the blessings of God.

I know certain women, Godly women, who love the Lord, but sadly have husbands who are not saved. And go out to church or Bible study against their will, never fully enjoying the fruit of the spirit. Who cannot go home and share what God is doing, for it falls on deaf ears. Even worse is the husband who is saved, yet doesn't encourage his wife. They are one, as God has made them, yet two very individual people. And when I look at them, I wonder how the wife would blossom with just a little encouragement from her husband, and how he doesn't know the love he is missing from his wife.

When Paul wrote to not be unequally yoked, he meant more than just marriage. He meant relationships at church, in business, and friends. We tend to follow what makes us feel good, trusting our feelings. Which for me will let me down, how many bad dates did I endure because of that? Or rides that should have been blessed. but weren't, just because I was not equally yoked with the group. But when I encountered another Christian, I was excited and relieved all at once, someone to share with. Be careful-you may not fit in with your peer group, but trust God to let Him guide you.

Is the ministry you are involved in more of a social club? Ask God to guide you. We minister much more effectively, and joyfully when led by God. Let the spirit guide, not rules. Is your church stuck in doctrine, wanting to reach out more to God, but afraid of what the congregation will think? Trust God. Is your marriage suffering because you go your way instead of God's? Turn to Him, let Jesus be the most important part of your marriage, and watch as you love your wife more, and she loves you more. You can become the husband she needs, and she will become the wife you desire. When you give it to God. Ditch the rules, and obtain morals. Only obtainable from God. They will reflect in you, via the fruit of the spirit-and love, then joy, then peace and patience, goodness, kindness, long suffering, meekness, and self control will dictate your life and decisions. You will experience more of God based on Him, rather than your emotions or feelings. Let God's grace surround you today. You set the example.

You are not going to change anyone's heart-only Jesus can do that. But you can be an encouragement, not a deterrent. You can show God's love freely, not worried what anyone thinks when in the spirit. It is pride that restrains you-worrying about what others may say about you. Maybe we should be more concerned about what God says about us. We may not like what we hear-but God loves us all the same, sinner and saint. His way of love, not ours. See the difference already.

As Jesus told us, pray "thy will be done, thy kingdom come..." let the spirit of the Lord guide you today. And watch the difference it makes. He will send people to bless you, and you to bless others. He will change hearts, and you will see fruit in your life that you only may have heard of. For where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty... Give it up to Jesus, and tell others by your actions and attitudes about Him. Words will be available from Him when needed. You may be the one in your church or club that starts the change, just by being who you are in Jesus. Be the person you can be in the Lord. Independent on Him, accepting His grace, and seeing it reflected in His love for others.

God will send someone your way today who needs His love. Don't step over them like the rich man did to Lazarus. Stop, look, and listen-like we used to do for trains. And watch as blessings appear, and others see them too. As your spouse wants to be with you more, as your fellowship grows, and your ministry blossoms. Not based on rules or laws, but on the spirit.

And soon you will be able to celebrate Jesus in your life, like the Feast of Trumpets, and look forward to that day we hear the trumpet call us home. As for now....give it over to God...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew24biker.blogspot.com

a service with a smile

They were called service stations because at one time that was what you received-service. You would pull into the service drive, your arrival being announced by the bell from driving over the black air hose. Then you would be greeted by someone who asked what did you need, and while pumping your gas, would check the oil, check your tires, and top off the fluids. All included in the price per gallon, and it didn't matter who you were or what you drove, you got the same great service. No matter the weather, even in the rain. You never left the comfort of your car, or had to miss the end of your favorite song. And to top it all off, many stations gave away Green Stamps with your purchase, plus whatever the oil company was using as a promotional tool. It could be anything from glasses, to towels, to extra stamps-all part of the service.

And we learned early from our dads which gas was best. No need for Sunoco 260 in a Rambler, when Good Gulf would do. Or to stay away from Esso, the rumor was it left green deposits in the carburetor. And even when we went up to buy gas for the mower, the attendant would come out for the 25 cents worth the can would hold. Even hearing the bell ring would have them respond, even if it was just us getting air for the Schwinn, Rollfast, or JC Higgins we rode. It was all about the service, and the station owners knew us, and our parents. And even on our motorcycles, when we only took 75 cents to fill up, we got the same great service. With a show of respect, them handing us the hose after making sure it wouldn't drip-no real attendant, or real biker ever let anyone else fill their own ride. Sadly today these are memories.

We don't call them service stations anymore. They are called gas stations, for no service is provided. No bells, no greeting, checking oil or the washing of windows. No free gifts, Green Stamps are no part of American folklore, and the only one greeting you is usually begging for money. While all business is done either by the cashier behind a bulletproof glass cubicle, or you use you credit card at the pump. Where before it was an event, now it is to be endured. Where sometimes before the attendant would go over your $2 request by 15 cents-almost a gallon extra, today the last few drops of prepaid fuel take as long as the first 10 gallons. Service administered accurately, with courtesy being exhibited by the machine asking you if you want a receipt. Another part of what is referred to as progress, and another part of people meeting face to face eliminated.

Churches still have services, and they are referred to as a service rightly so. You get greeted, get to worship, visit, get taught, and then a chance to be prayed for individually if needed. In a loving caring environment, for most churches. And afterwards fellowship with others-making it an experience you look forward to, and one that is rewarding. Time spent with God, and His people.

Last night we had our annual Feast of Trumpets celebration at Maranatha Chapel. From the schofars being blown, to the singing, the dancing, and all being started with a free meal for over 1700 people, it was a true time of celebration. A time of joy in the Lord, and a time to fellowship. Helping me to redefine fellowship. For true fellowship, koininea, the Greek word, means fellowship with God, not the gossip that precedes or follows church. It is about God, and spending time with Him, sharing with others. A true time where you are blessed-and a time when all yours needs in Christ Jesus are met. In Hebrew the celebration is related to the rapture of the church-think of it as a dress rehearsal for heaven, for Jesus will call us home with the sound of a trumpet.

And for those left behind, no service. No joy, and the absence of God's people. No true fellowship, those left will be left alone to serve themselves, choosing not to serve a loving God. And He honors their choice by not taking them to heaven-they didn't want Him here, so He leaves them behind, rather than burden them with His presence.

Some day true believers will here the trumpet, just like the attendant heard the bell, and we will be called home. A service like no other, with the ultimate free gift, Jesus is our presence. Our oil, the Holy spirit will be overflowing, our view clear as a freshly washed windshield, and all our needs will be met. God still meets us today at the pump if you will-He is present and asking what you need, and wants to supply it. He is at the door waiting-what is your answer? If your view of God sees Him behind bulletproof glass, or as a machine waiting to take your card, you don't know Him. Pull up to Him today-you don't need to ask for full service-that is all He provides. Let Him into your life, and celebrate His love. Fellowship with other true believers, and enjoy all the free benefits. He has already provided the reasons to serve Him, let Him serve you also.

Now will that be regular or premium? If you have to ask, you don't know the premium God I do. Fill up with Jesus today, which by the way just may be a rehearsal for heaven. And like any wedding, the rehearsal dinner is fun, the food abundant, and the fellowship rich.

I miss the old time service stations-don't miss the eternal God. Trust Him today. Where all your needs are met. Now that's service with a smile.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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bridges and ferries-to get to the other side

I love riding over bridges. And I enjoy riding an occasional ferry when travelling. which has nothing to do with my aversion to water-I sink rather than swim, but for my love of the open road, and its extension over water. I have ridden miles out of my way just to cross a bridge, or made riding plans just so I could cross a certain bridge. Some of my favorites are the Mackinac Bridge, over 5 miles long. Which between the wind, rain, and the only paved lane being closed-the other is a metal grate so the wind can get through-try riding over it with all three working against you. But still I will return to Michigan's UP via it someday.

One of my favorites is the Astoria Bridge, over the Columbia River. Going straight up while in a non-banked turn, it has a roller coaster effect-then straightens out riding just few feet above the water. Always good for a few trips back and forth while in the area. Even the Coronado Bay Bridge in San Diego is neat, also being free when the bonds were paid off years ago, with only the empty toll booths remaining to remind us of when it cost. And the only public bridge I know of that cancelled the toll when the bonds were paid off. In contrast to the Verrazano Bridge in New York-$14 to cross, only half for a motorcycle-such a deal.

I have ridden over cover bridges, suspension and down, some beautiful like the Bixby Bridge in Big Sur, the Golden Gate Bridge, and have ridden on both George and Martha-the Washington Bridge. I marvel at the Rio Grand Gorge Bridge, and what a bummer it must have been to early pioneers, this 300 foot gorge for 50 miles, and no way around it. I love the thunking noise a car makes when going over the Royal Gorge, it is a plank road, that Theresa got off and walked across-not sure why. Now it is close to traffic, but you can walk across. Maybe she started something.

But some bridges need to be from below, like the New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia. Another must ride-take the 45 minute detour on the old road, over the old bridge-you'll be glad you did. But long before bridges, we had ferries, of which I have ridden on a few. My favorite, and longest is from Anacortes to Victoria-almost 5 hours of peaceful sailing, with stops at Orcas Island and Friday Harbor. People only at Orcas, cars ok at Friday, they even have a Chevy dealer. Wouldn't you like to test drive a new car there? But even the small $2 ferry going to Balboa Island is fun-just plan on waiting, and I even survived a summer squall from Cape May to Lewes, Delaware. I stood by my bike as the waves swayed the boat up and down, while the locals just watched-no big deal to them. Despite the inclement weather, they were riding. Something about the weather being nice that day, they mentioned...

But the king of all bridges, all 17 miles of it, is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge Tunnel. With tunnels between the man made islands, each one 1 mile in length, and a wonderful view when rising out-when you enter it is like going under the ocean. Expensive, but so is a day at Disneyland. I'll take the ride-I've seen Mickey! Figure in the bridges to Key West, Lake Ponchatrain, the old bridge in Easton, the Bridge of the Gods, and the seven bridges I crossed over the Mississippi one day, and they are out there. Just waiting for you to ride them. So plan a trip around bridges, not around them to avoid them. And enjoy the ride.

When Adam sinned, we became separated from God. A chasm of sin stood between us, with nothing to bridge it. And then He sent Jesus to bridge the gap, to atone for our sin, and allow us safe passage to God. A bridge of forgiveness, if you will, not built by human hands, and open to all. It just takes recognizing the bridge master, and then you can cross. But many don't or won't, thinking this toll free way is not enough. They think they have to pay a toll, by doing things to please God, and atone for their sin themselves. When all the time Jesus has paid it all, invites you across, and sees you have a great ride. A bridge of repentance, changing from the wrong direction, to the right direction. Toll free, and the views are incredible. If you haven't crossed this bridge, I encourage you to seek Jesus today, and follow His directions-you'll be glad you did.

No ferry to heaven-only a bridge over the chasm sinned caused. Maybe that is why I love riding over bridges so much, over 35 years ago I rode the bridge to salvation, and that has made all the difference. It is open 24/7, and the lanes are open to all forms of traffic-sinners.

So next time you face a a toll bridge, pay for the guy in back of you. Have the toll collector tell them it is a gift from God. Make someone's day a little brighter by doing them a favor. And when you notice the bridge only goes one way, it is because no one ever wants to return to their sin. So God used the extra lanes to accommodate all the traffic. Traffic you will never get stuck in...

When Brother Willie sings "let's all go down to the river..." I think of Jesus and bridges. And the way home. Enjoy the ride, ferries may be a good thing, but nothing beats riding in heaven. There's this bridge I have read about, it's only 2000 miles away, maybe a three day weekend ride....cross the bridge with Jesus today!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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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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