riding in my grandparents' cars

Come along with me for a short ride, a short ride back to a simpler time, when the make of car that you were riding in was more important than just riding in a car.  Where a short trip was like an odyssey, and a long trip seemed like weeks, if only for an afternoon.  My Grandfather was always a GM man, he loved his Pontiacs, but had a Buick or two in between, then two Cadillacs, finally returning to Pontiac fro his last car, a 1970 LeMans, two door with buckets seats, and he used to shift the auto like a manual.  Go Grandpa.  But the car I remember most, was his 1959 Buick Electra, 4 door hardtop, silver grey with red leather interior.  Classy, and long, with a rear seat center arm rest my sister used to ride on.  Without seat belts!  The car by which all other Buicks were measured.  My Pappy had a 1958 Ford Fairlane 500, again a two door hardtop, black with a white top, with plastic covered seats.  Stylin’ for his time, his final car.  Strangely both my grandmothers didn’t drive until later in life, my Grandmother a succession of Ramblers, her 1969 Rambler Rogue being way sporty, and my Nana and her 1967 Buick Skylark.  Purchased after Pappy died, she learned to drive, and we loved to ride her, as she thought you had to pass everyone.  Many emergency trips to the DDB, the Daisy Dairy Bar were taken, radio blaring through the rear speaker in her two door hardtop with the windows down.  White with a black vinyl top, she as the epitome of style in 1967.  At least her grandsons thought so.  So it is the cars remind me of my grandparents, of the good times, and of looking forward to riding with them.  a time with no seat belts, no child restraints, no children’s seats, and of a Nana who loved to speed.  And a sister perched on an armrest!  What will your kids’ kids remember about you and your driving?

Today we have child safety seats, harnesses, and air bag cut off switches.  Kids are terrified of driving away without wearing a seatbelt, feeling safe and secure while mom talks on her cell phone.  Give me a conversation, unbelted with Nana anytime, safer and more memorable.  We talked with our grandparents, focusing on the stories they told us, learning about the landmarks, and looking forward to that large ice cream cone, or having a hamburger, fires, and a Coke with them.  We were all about the ride, and the car you were in mattered.  And today we remember times, places, food, and rides because of them.  People knew your Grandpa had made it in the Buick, that Nana was a young widow in her Skylark, and their cars were their identification in the public eye.  And when they came to visit, their cars parked in our driveway were a sign to the neighbors that even though my Dad had a Rambler, his father and in laws were still cool.  Makes me wonder, what will my grandkids think of our cars?

Being grandchildless so far, Riley and Landon hang with us, going to Cruisin’ Grand in Theresa’s Mustang, with the top down.  Their mother drives an SUV, guess which car they rather ride in?  It seems with the exception of Uncle Buck, our old 1990 Ford Crown Vic, we have had convertibles, and sporty cars.  T birds, Mustangs, and a Probe-two doors for two kids.  Which also kept us out of the car pool society, let other kids tear up other peoples cars, not mine.  Which makes my mind wander, and wonder what will the memories be of cars when they get their license?  When they go to buy a car?  An SUV?  A Honda Civic sedan?  A car with a more powerful sound system than the car has horsepower?  How will we be remembered, as those who drove cool cars?  And motorcycles?  Have we lost cool and the coolness of riding in cool cars forever?  Where and what will they cruise in 20 years?  A Tesla?  A Prius?  I am wary of kids who brag their parents drive a Prius.  Wouldn’t you really rather have a Buick, from 1959 or 1967?  Generations come and go...but it is how they go that we remember.

It has been said, and wisely so, “I didn’t quit riding because I got old,  I got old because I quit riding.”  Old age being as much a state of mind as it is a state of body.  With fun being a factor in the equation.  And although my grandparents were much older than me, I never thought of them as old, they got out and did things.  They talked with us and to us.  We rode with them, an early reminder of the trip being the destination.  We interacted, and listened, as we were their main audience, and a captive one at that.  And many values and life lessons were taught to us at an early age, that later we would pass on to our kids.  Lessons learned from sitting unbelted in a car with the windows down, and sometimes the radio blaring.  “Go fast Nana,” and she did.  “Drive slow past my friend’s house again Grandpa,” showing off his car.  Identified by what they drove, and wanting to be identified with them.  Impressing our friends.  And sometimes stopping and inviting them along.  And Grandpa always bought, no matter how many cones for each kid.  They were respected, and looked up to, as were the cars they drove.

Reputations can be easily earned, and sometimes misplaced.  Or come from the strangest source.  We find in Antioch the first time believers are called Christians.  They talked about Jesus, lived like Him, showed the fruits of the spirit in their daily lives, so they were referred to as Christians, or “Little Christs.”  By the Gentiles of all people, it was a name they didn’t invent for themselves.  But soon they liked the name, and as the gospel spread, so did the name.  At first it was a name that was used mockingly, sadly today it is also.  But to these so-called, who didn’t worship idols, who lived clean lives, who actually liked being different, they liked the name, and so today we are still called Christians.  And so the gospel spread, many times one on one, like the conversations while driving with my Grandpa, or listening to Nana talk about her late husband, my Pappy.  We learned things first hand,  and found it was OK to ride with them, to be associated with them.  That older people were cool too, just on a different level.  Just like Christians. 

As Christians we are the coolest, just on a different level.  We have eternal life, and if anyone should have fun it is us.  And how we share the gospel will influence those who listen.  The times talking while driving, not on your cell phone, kids not glued to some screen, can be the best times ever.  Memories in the making, and a time of sharing Jesus.  Not just Christian music, but in conversation, answering questions from them, and making them think and consider Christ in their lives.  Building testimonies, and stories to be repeated to the next generation.  And some will remember the car, some the person.  Blessed are those who have both.  And find out how cool it is to know Jesus.  To be called a Christian, even if made fun of.  My friend Peter tells people to “burn rubber, not your soul,”  good advice from someone who knows.  So I ask, is your life an SUV with the windows up, no fun, or a convertible, top down going places?  What ride best describes your life in Christ?  Bored and confused, or alive and exciting?  What Jesus do you prefer?  Life is for the living, so get out and live.  Wear the name Christian with great joy, and live life with the windows down, wind in your hair.  Let your ride reflect your Bible, if it is worn out, it reflects a life that isn’t.  Experience Jesus first hand, looking back the rides with my grandparents were times of fun, stories, and precious memories.  Just like Christians should have.  A new generation is waiting, what you drive and the places you take them will forever influence them.  They were called Christians at Antioch, the world saw something different in them.  What does the world see in you?  What will your kids remember about riding in their grandparents’ car?  Do we dare call you Christian?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

 

put a tiger in your tank... for that extra kick

Growing up in the sixties, I can remember going to get gas with my parents, they always bought $2 worth when the gauge showed half full.  Usually filling the tank, and while being filled, having their windshield washed, oil checked, and tires checked.  All by Willie or his brother, our neighbor.  You knew the man who pumped your gas, and he knew you.  You were a customer, and after giving you your S&H Green Stamps, thanked you,and wished you a good day.  Just like so many other stations across the US of A did everyday.  And with gas prices competitive at 25 cents a gallon, they worked hard for your business.  And so the gas companies came up with promos.  Double stamp Tuesdays, maybe a deal on a lube job on Thursdays, or a special on one of their branded products.  But the most popular way to get you in, was giveaways.  Incentives to come in, anything from furry Tiger tails from Esso, to hang off your fuel door, to a pair of orange horseshoes to stick on your trunk for Gulf No Nox.  Many stations gave away free glasses, big tumblers with Disney or Looney Tunes characters, the station logo on the glass to remind you where to get next week’s glass-got to have the complete set.  I even had a Sunoco “I can be very friendly” t-shirt, paid $2 for that one.  But the ones I remember the best, the most functional ones, were the trucks.  A red 1950’s Texaco tanker with a sort nose GMC cab pulling it.  Getting to us kids at a young age, where else would we turn for fuel after the  many miles spent driving that truck around our den.  And at Christmas, all kinds of cool toys, again a Texaco gas station, perfectly sized for my Matchbox cars a favorite.  They were toys, meant to be played with, and usually played with until they wore out, or passed down to the next in line.  Or until they wouldn’t hold air anymore like my Sinclair Dino the dinosaur inflatable.

Not many of those promo tools/toys are around today, and fetch big bucks when they do, such is the cost of memories.  And always wondered how some made it, and mine never did.  Toys were for playing, glasses for drinking, and Tiger tials and horseshoes for decorating your dad’s car-until he pulled them off, warning you to not do it again, until the next time.  But somehow these items were saved, preserved, and today bring big bucks at auction.  The trucks in particular my favorite.  Hess this year is applying to have its line of toy trucks admitted to the National Toy Hall of Fame.  For 50 years they have been a Christmas staple, selling out quickly to many who remember them as a kid, and collecting them even today.  Sometimes the only visit that year to Hess is to buy one!  And now this popular piece of petroliana is seeking Hall of Fame status.  Disregarding the fact that for many years it was already in the hall of fame of many childhood memories.

Funny how at 25 cents per gallon stations couldn’t afford not to give these items away, and at $4 per gallon they can’t afford to.  Somehow Hess ahs carried on the tradition, with some concerned now over how or if Hess wil continue, they just sold to Marathon Oil.  I hope this is one tradition Marathon keeps.  But as today gas stations are no longer service stations, you pay by credit card at the pumps, you pump yourself, and the only time you talk to someone is when the receipt won’t print, and you are forced to go to the window, the 2” thick glass window, where you are grunted at, and given a receipt, no thank you, no tiger tails, no I can be very friendly. NO personal contact at all, almost like you were doing them a favor.  No wonder they aren’t call service stations any more.

And brand loyalty is only where your credit card takes you.  Shopping for the best prices the key, no other incentives.  Causing us to no longer have a one to one relationship to the man filling our car-we filled our own motorcycles, then and now, and dealing with nameless faces, with names we cannot pronounce behind the bullet proof glass, when forced to.  Times are changing, but maybe it is the people changing the times.  But when change comes, we have trouble adjusting to it.  And the wise seek to investigate it.  Just like the apostles did in Antioch.  Word had reached them that Gentiles, those that the Jews thought were meant to fire the fires of hell, were being saved.  The church was growing, changing, and they need to make sure if its true-and real.  So they sent Barnabas to find out.  And so Barney went, not to control it, but to check it out.  To see if it was real.  And they sent Barney for three reasons-he was a good man, full of the spirit, and full of faith.  Three great characteristics even today, who wouldn’t welcome a man like this.  He was a good man, could be trusted, was kind and friendly.  Not unlike Willie filling my Mother’s Rambler, while washing her windows.  He was cheerful and grateful, a man of manners.  So different from the whatever attitude of today, he would have answered “you’re welcome” when thanked.  Giving you one final reason to return.  Making it personal.

He was in the spirit.  The fruit of the spirit being evident in his life.  Love, joy, peace, patience he had.  He was good and kind, long suffering and had self control.  He was this way because of drawing on the power of the spirit, instead of trying to do it himself.  Like Jesus, he was led by the spirit, and the evidence was there to prove it.  He was the man who gave away the promo goodies, and maybe gave extra stamps to the poor when needed.  Always a smile, and could be trusted.  When he said you were a quart low, you were.  The spirit always knows these things, and Barney was in the spirit.

And as a man of faith, he didn’t question what God showed him, he acted on it.  Men of faith hear and then act because they believe.  It wasn’t and isn’t about us, or how we feel, it is about Jesus.  When we trust God and recognize He will do something, we act on it.  Faith that can move mountains, or fill gas tanks.  A type of faith mentioned in Hebrews, Faith Hall of Fame, but you can have the same faith without being famous.  Barnabas got things done, acting in faith as the spirit moved him.  What moves us?  Are we even movable?

Recently when I saw a Texaco toy station, the memories of good times came rushing back.  I was the kid asking “fill’er up?” or the driver of the tanker dropping fuel.  I was the guy saving my Green Stamps in hope of a prize.  I was a good man,  had faith, but until I was Born Again didn’t have the spirit.  Many nice guys out there have faith, but without the spirit to guide them, it is useless.  We need to be a servant like Barnabas, to go when and where ordered to, and to accept change, when God does it.  To collect the collectibles of love and peace, showing them by being kind and friendly.  We need to be the man asking the lost if we can “fill ‘er up?” with some love from Jesus.  We need to share our collection with others, and not hoard it.  for love is like a toy, unless played with and enjoyed, it is only an emotion, like a toy still in its box.  Only valuable until it opened, but never enjoyed for what it truly was designed for.  Show love and courtesy before it needed.  Set a the pattern of joy to be returned, and watch as the spirit moves you, and faith becomes an action, not a belief.  The fruit of the spirit is best enjoyed when in evidence, just like our old toys were.  Trust Jesus today, he’s still full service, and the blessings are plentiful.  To be shared and not collected for later, share some today.  If only I had the $250 dollars for that Texaco station....

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

period of adjustment-but wait there's more!

Page 2: "This manual is not intended to help you understand the operation and maintenance of your motor vehicle. Rather, it is meant to provide you with invaluable information that would, under normal driving conditions, take most car owners months to discover for themselves. Information that has been painstakingly gleaned from many hours of vehicle operation." 

"Refill the fuel tank before the gauge registers E (Empty)."

It is trendy today that when you buy a new car, that a salesperson, usually a specially designated one, goes over all the features of your new vehicle at delivery.  After the hassle of the F and I guy trying to sell you insurance for your undercoating, and more useless trim for your fenders, you are ready to go drive.  But wait, there’s more, you spend another half hour not paying attention to how all the buttons and gadgets work, just so you can work the radio, or adjust the air conditioning, or turn on the lights, or.....Many cars don’t come with owners manuals any more, they are online, but you can access them while driving, from your i-phone, while driving a car designed for safety, pioneered by Mercedes Benz, also the leader in electronic devices.  CRASH!  I just used to tell the new owners to find a teenager, they know how it all works, dump the phone, and drive.  And I can see how older drivers are intimidated by new cars, on one 2003 S Class there were 39 buttons on the dashboard, but still no on/off button for the radio.  It adjusted by speed.  So many would just hang on to their older cars, and feel safe and secure living in the past, the future had become today, and arrived too soon.  And even on new motorcycles, like the Tiger Explorer I recently toured on, it has cruise control, programmable ABS, traction control, and a multi function computer, along with an electronic throttle.  Twist and go has become twist and shout-AAHHHHH!!

Talking with a man on the street, Tim he was homeless, he had just gotten out of prison after 34 years.  Not sure of his crime, but the world of today was much different than when he went in.  He and some others like him were having trouble being homeless, as they didn’t fit in with the homeless.  He told us he had never paid rent, written a check, or filled out paperwork, and felt disadvantaged.  He had more than paid for his debt to society, now society, the outside world, turned on him.  He said his friends and he weren’t bitter, but needed assistance.  But no one was there to help, and they were frustrated. When asked if there was one thing we could do to help, he said “we need some adjustment classes, so we can get work, get places to live, and get assistance.”  When we returned, “would you go if they were available,” his answer was a resounding “yes!”  No hesitation, YES!  Just like the new car, they needed to be oriented with society, and many can’t, don’t, or won’t, and go back to jail.  In some places it is so bad, there are homeless camps of ex-cons in front of parole offices.  Where are the well meaning politicians now?  These ex-cons like many others, have become NIMBY’s, Not In My Back Yard.  Out of sight, out of mind, just not sure who is out of their mind.  Is anyone listening?

When Jesus gave the great commission, to preach the gospel, we think of only evangelism.  But He really was keying in on discipleship.  We give the great commission precedence over what really is God’s purpose for all, to be conformed to Christ Jesus, to be transformed to His likeness-Romans 8:29.  Salvation is just the first step, and many stop there.  We are so concerned with salvation-yes it is the most important, that we forget about those after they are saved, much like the cons hitting the streets.  OK, they’re saved, now what?  As Christians we talk different, our language is different, and we sing songs, pray, and have different views than from when we were lost.  But without discipleship after salvation, many go back.  Some don’t grow at all, or some get bad doctrine, and if not for God seeing their salvation, we would never know it.  Lost and saved, all at the same time.  We forget that each one has a purpose from God, and is valuable, yet we don’t encourage new believers classes, or if we do, after few weeks give them a certificate and tell them they are matured.  The truth is we will always be going through a maturing process until death.  The word mature means death.  Only when we die physically and ascend to heaven will we be perfect.  When Jesus said “greater things you will do than I,” He meant that as the church, we all have a part to play, and when empowered by the holy spirit, we can do all the things He could and did.   Using the spiritual given to us via the spirit, we can see the lame walk, miracles occur, raise up helpers, those who welcome, and those who teach.  No one is more important than the other, but without discipling, how will they know?  How do we know?  How do we know how much we are missing?  Read the great commission again, as you go, making disciples.  Hmmm?

Older Christians, take in those who are younger or weaker, disciple them as Jesus took you in and discipled you.  Younger ones, less mature, find one who you can follow, who follows Jesus, and have him teach you.  In fellowship, worship, teaching, and discussing the word, you will find growth you never knew was available.  How many times I hear “I didn’t know that was in the Bible,”  from older saints.  So we all need to be involved, I know I do, and am.  A new life in Christ is much more than a new car, and we too comes with an owners manual.  The Bible.  And the more you read it, the more you know, the closer you get to God.  And the more you see Jesus for who He is, a friend, counselor, healer, master, and savior.  And you get to know yourself in His terms, and see sin differently.  You change to become more like Jesus because you want to, not have to.  And unlike those who are new to the street, you have a family who welcomes you, and wants to love you.  But without discipleship, it is hard.

The vision God has given me is to equip others to equip others, to equip others with the gospel.  Pass these devotions on, share them with others.  Use them to be encouraged in Christ, and get into the Bible more.  Jesus chose 12, who spread throughout the world, adding many every day.  And each one had the ability, just as we do , to do the same.  The same Jesus of 2000 years ago is still at work, He never left or denied you, and has given you gifts to use for the kingdom.  Along with the blessings that come with them.  If you truly wish to be transformed to the likeness of Jesus, pray and ask God to direct you to someone, and then let Him.  Be ready and involved for your new life in Christ, and get every blessing available.  Get involved.  Hang on for the ride of your life.  No need to just hang on, or hang out like Tim, the ex con, he too was looking, and hopefully we can help him.  Too many Tims like him out there, seeking, and not finding.  Being given a new gift, freedom, but still in bondage to the old life.  You who believe have a new life in Christ.  Start your period of adjustment today, get closer to God.  The family welcomes you and we need you.  Tim needs you, and Jesus needs you.  You are that special He gave His life for you, now can you give your life over to Him?

We are the church, welcome.  We are the first family of Jesus.  And it only gets better.  But wait, there’s more to Jesus....be conformed to Jesus today.  Do I hear a resounding YES!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

nothing personal

I knew a guy once, who had a brother in law, who worked with a guy, whose sister baby sat for the guy who used to walk the dog of the neighbor of a guy who once went to an Elton John concert.  Online.  Talk about a connection-wow!  I’d really like to meet that guy someday, but what could I ever say to someone so connected like that?  Or which one.  When I moved to Albuquerque in 1975 Fleetwood Mac was big, or just becoming big-again.  N one remembers the original group before Stevie Nicks joined.  But the ads on KRST, the hot FM station advertised Stevie Nicks return to Albuquerque, how exciting.  I didn’t now she lived here, and she really had. Seems for a few months in the third grade, her father was stationed at Kirtland Air Force Base, in the late 50’s.  Welcome home Stevie-I’m sure the memories are precious.  And even before that, I worked with a guy named Wes Watson at Sears.  Wes was a cool black guy, who tended bar at night.  So in my BC days, Before Christ, he invited us down one night for free beer, who could say no to that.  So Jack and I went, and it was in a bad area of Plainfield-so bad some blacks didn’t even go there.  Half afraid, the other half was too stupid to know better, we approached the door, where a huge, like the size of an SUV sized bouncer greeted us. “What you boys want?” he barked.  I mean he really barked. Half heartedly we mumbled “Wes invited us down to hang out,” even more afraid to mention free beer to the guy.  “This bar ain’t for CAW-casians,” was all he had to say, and we were outta there.  Later talking to Wes, asking him if he was trying to get us killed, he told us the guy was really nice, just having a rough night.  “Nothing personal, guys, let’s try again next week.”  Huh?  Maybe if we said we were related to Wes, except for Elton John substitute Marvin Gaye....

But things like that happen, and most people are impressed when you know someone who is a celebrity.  Even my dad, when we played Midget League, Carl’s sister was married to the son of Jimmy Durante, and Carl was on my team, and lived right next to the park.  And every time we went by his house, my dad reminded me of the Durante connection, and looked to see if Jimmy was there.  What was he going to do if he was?  Years after I still looked when I went by.  On my paper route was Al Derogotis, who played for the New York Giants.  A huge man, I didn’t know who he was, he was always nice to me, and one day my dad found out he was on my route.  “You know DeRo?”  And after an explanation of who he was, admitted it.  My dad was impressed, I knew DeRo.  And you could say that you knew the father of the man who delivered the Star Ledger to the man who used to play for the Giants.  Still not impressed?

And so over the years I have come to know many celebrities while working for Mercedes Benz and Land Rover.  Most are cool, some would talk motorcycles, but couldn’t ride, like Mark Kotsay.  Who used to stop by and we’d talk bikes, but he couldn’t even sit on one, it was in his contract.  Kevin Mitchell used to stop by and we’d talk motorcycles, and family.  “Hey, Mike,this is Mitch, you busy?”  “No Kevin, I’m at  work.”  And you knew that for an hour later that day you would be.  I even met Bobby Jones once, when he was traded to the Mets, and we talked about the Mets, and asked if he knew Bill Del Nero?  “Willie, yeah, I rent a house in spring training from him,” and suddenly it was personal.  Willie was our neighbor growing up.  So over the years, I have made contacts, friends, acquaintances, and those who knew somebody who knew somebody.  I have been offered free drinks, tickets, signed posters, and free meals out.  All because I knew someone, who knew me, and we became friends.  Some famous, some infamous, some just folk, and some just plain embarrassing.  You all know who you are. 

It seems I am on many prayer lists of people who call me for prayer.  Not a bad thing, but I am anything but a prayer warrior.  I know some who are, I’m not.  But lately it bothers me when I get put on the spot by some to add this person to my prayer list, which I don’t have.  Like if I don’t pray it’s my fault.  My prayer needs change everyday, many times a day.  So to those who only tell someone “I’ll pray for you,” or “I’ll add you to Mike’s prayer list,” listen up.  Even though it is encouraging to tell someone you are praying for them, why not stop and pray for them then.  Right now.  Show you really care.  Not later, if you remember.  The need is now, and if you can’t deal with now, how can you deal with later?  You have the same connection to Jesus I do, the same spirit listens to me, do you listen to the same spirit I do?  Why call me when you can do it yourself?  Did you ever think that this was a divine appointment God has given you, to pray for this person?  So why bring me into it, bring Jesus instead.  Nothing personal, but that’s just what it sounds like.  Why not encourage the person that God already knows, before they ask, and is dealing with it right now.  Isaiah 65:24 reassures us of that.  You tell them Jesus is personal, then pass on bringing Him into the conversation.  I guess I just don’t get it.

Section 8 housing in San Diego is a 3-5 year wait.  Praying for a home in 3-5 years is OK, but where are you living tonight?  Shouldn’t you focus on today’s problems?  It is written to not worry about tomorrow, today has enough problems of its own.  Do I hear an amen?  But yet these same people moan that it will be 5 years, and don’t take account of today.  And some are on prayer lists forwarded to me....So I find that the one quality of good advice that applies to everyone is  that it only works if taken.  Yet many turn from it, and only yesterday we prayed for a man on the street.  He was telling how God has been talking to him, and guiding him through changes he is going through.  Would we pray for him?  But before we prayed, I asked him if he was willing to obey God?  Was he going to listen to God’s answer, even if it wasn’t what he wanted?  He paused, and admitted, it would be tough. He’s not alone.  He was more honest than most.  And I prayed, struggling at times, I felt disconnected, couldn’t find the words.  Maybe I was afraid he wouldn’t listen for God’s answer, was I wasting my time.  But when we were done, through tears he told me “you prayed for everything I was asking for.”  And was encouraged, maybe my prayer was just to encourage, to show I cared.  To show God’s love right then.  Imagine if I had told him “I’ll add you to my prayer list?”  And you think God isn’t listening?  He doesn’t know?

Don’t put yourself in the position to ever say I wish I had prayed for that person.  Pray for them then.  And now.  Prayer lists are good thing, just don’t substitute them for a time God has appointed for you.  When asked how to pray, Jesus responded “they will be done...” can we pray the same?  If you don’t know Jesus, how will you know the Father?  And not all prayer needs to be publicized.  I have some real winners that are none of your business.  And God isn’t waiting for the 500th person to ask before He acts.  Quantity doesn’t matter, when He is the majority.  Sometimes just say amen Lord to whatever you want to do is enough.  Then let Him.  Be that person who hears directly from God, rather than through another person, no matter how related they aren’t to you.  Nothing personal was our life before Christ, you don’t have to live that way any more.  His line is open, is yours?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Lois and Clark part 2, the story of Martha and Mary

When we last saw our intrepid hero, he was debating about asking his love of his life, Lois, if he should ask her to marry him.  Being a resident alien, they were both afraid of the interracial thing, she from the US of A, him from Krypton, and without papers.  So he did what any super man would do, and consulted his parents.  Who were quick to jump to his aid, helping and hoping they would make the right decision.  And so off the Kents went to Metropolis, and Ma made a visit to Lois.  And in one brief visit, we get an insight to both Clark and Superman through his mom, and as most of us know , you can fool most people, but you can’t fool mom.

Not aware if Lois knew of Clark’s identity, she made an S with her hand at the door, and breathed a sigh of relief when Lois nodded yes.  And her opening line said more than any other words, “you’re the first person in 30 years I can talk to about my boy.”  Stop and think on that one, for 30 years they had to keep Clark’s origin and strengths hidden.  He couldn’t play sports, couldn’t bowl, and never fit in with the other kids.  Hide and seek-yeah right.  His super powers made him more of a freak than anyone knew.  So he had some loneliness built into him, wanting to use his power for good, but not knowing how.  So he kept to himself, and kept his super side, the side with a cape hidden.  Until Lois, and now Ma Kent, Martha had talked with someone she could confide in, to share her family’s grief, and hopefully Lois would understand, and love Clark for who he is, not what he is.  For he was pretty super just as Clark, the qualities his parents raised him with make him an outstanding catch for any woman.  But when Ma shared, now Lois knew, but still couldn’t quite understand the real Clark.  All she knew was she loved him....and was not sure of her answer when he asked.  A great guy, from a great family, plus he is Superman wants to marry you, you’re in love with him,and you still doubt?  Sound familiar?

We are told that “Mary pondered these things in her heart,” after hearing from the Holy spirit when pregnant with Jesus.  She too had a super man, and she and Joe had to raise a son that was different.  A son that wasn’t normal, a son who at age 30, went into the ministry, the same age priests are called.  And this boy, this man Jesus, was to be not only the ultimate high priest, but our savior too.  And Mary, like Ma Kent, after 30 years of knowing who her son was, but having to keep silent, now was able to talk to others about Him.  Much like Ma must have sighed in relief when Lois knew who her son was, Mary also knew some day that He would suffer death.  We are never told what Mary pondered, nor of the conversations God had with Joe, and her, but for 30 years, they kept their silence.  A silence that at the right time, would lead to His death, and resurrection in just a short three year period.  A period in which He would change the world forever.  In which we find Jesus, the Christ, to be the original Superman.  Doing what no other could or would do, dying to save sinners from death, and to reunite them with His father in heaven.  And from birth in a stable, to His death on a cross, and burial in a borrowed tomb, she never left His side.  A mother’s love to the end, and she never quit pondering, or wondering about the gift God had given her.

Now if love were reduced to just an emotion, it would be pretty sad.  Tina Turner would be right, for it would only be a second hand emotion, hate being the first.  But God is love, and chose to show it through His son Jesus, where we could see that love is a person, and deeper than any feelings.  So deep the spirit groans for us, because there are no words to describe it, for if you could use finite terms He wouldn’t be an infinite God.  But we act like Lois when it comes to Him.  Jesus had a great Father, so we know His lineage.  He as a talented carpenter, personable, funny, kind, and gentle.  He is giving, not demanding, and only wants the best for you.  Even lets you make your own decisions, and mistakes, and then forgives you and doesn’t hold them against you.  So why then, are we like Lois, when we have found the ultimate catch in Jesus, when we say we are in love with God, why don’t we enter into a relationship with Him?  We are promised to be the bride of Christ, He is the groom, the wedding feast is being planned only for us, yet we doubt?  Why can’t our actions follow our words, which should follow what the spirit tells us?  Why do we doubt, when the best offer we will ever have is given, and we question it?  What are we pondering? 

Or have you been saved, but hiding Him inside, and not sharing with others?  Has any time with other Christians felt like 30 years since you have been in fellowship?  What do you hang onto, that is more precious than what Jesus offers?  What is it about your cross that makes you want to drag it through life, rather than picking it up and following Him?  What part of till death do us part do you not get, not realizing that at death you won’t part from Jesus?  Are you still waiting for that one afternoon talk with Him so that you can make it personal?  Or are you hiding in shame and fear every time the door knocks, knowing it might be Jesus, and you’ll have to face Him and make a decision?  Don’t you know that saying nothing is saying no?

We find later in the series that Lois made the right decision, and they married.  Happily ever after, but not without some tests and trials.  Just like it is with Jesus.  That’s life.  But with Superman in her life, she was always protected, and her needs were always met.  Still never told about any children they might have had.  But we do know that in Jesus we are always protected, and can even look back to our before Christ days to see where He protected us.  He still meets every need, and loves you just as you are.  But what if it was His mom at the door, what if she was there to tell you to follow her son?  What would you ponder about the things she would tell you about Him?  How would you feel listening to how she felt at the cross?  At the tomb?  What did she and Joe talk about in these situations?  We can and do say no to Jesus everyday.  But He never leaves us or forsakes us-that’s love.  But what would you say to His mom?  After you have listened to her talk about her son, would you still say no?  You can fool most of the people, you can’t fool mom, and you couldn’t fool Mary.  She pondered these things in her heart.  The secret is out, Jesus is Lord.  Join the family today, and get all your inheritance, and not have to deal with until death do we part.  If Superman asked to marry you, would you?  An even more super man is asking today, we say we love Him, what will your answer be?  What side are you hiding from God?  Lois said yes, will you?  The event of a lifetime, and you’re invited!  Not just another Martha and Mary story.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Lois and Clark, part 1

Every 20 years Godzilla makes a comeback.  And each new generation gets to meet the ultimate monster of all times.  This time he is a little chubbier, he is 58, and kids will soon fall in love with him.  We need more heroes like him, who go from bad to good, from destroying Tokyo to rescuing it, and the beat goes on.  But my favorite superhero, Superman has lasted even longer.  We grew up with George Reeves, to me the real Superman, and still wonder why no one could tell that Clark was really Superman.  I was never into the movies, but in reruns now I am enjoying Lois and Clark.  20 year old reruns, that provide great entertainment, yes some violence, but the good guys always win.  And in true hero form, Superman met his match, really his mate in Lois Lane this time.  Seeing a romantic side to the ultimate crime fighter has made us root for them to get married, and the series is taking its time, getting the most from it.  With Clark, trying to find a way to tell Lois he is Superman, and Lois not sure she is in love with Clark or Superman.  Being a super hero can be tougher than you might think.  But she discovers who Superman really is, one time Clark touched her face, and she knew, and now is really confused.  Hence more shows until they get married.  But she poses a great question to him, and we find out a lot about a young Clark Kent than Smallville ever told us.  And an insight to why some heroes are super, and some just wear capes.  When she asks him “who are you really, are you Clark Kent or Superman?” he gives the right answer.  Of course he would, what were you thinking.  “Clark Kent is who I am, Superman is what I am.”  Give that writer an Oscar, great line.  But to Lois, and the writers, it just prolongs the season ,until she realizes she does love Clark, because of who he is, and Superman because of what he is. 

A song I heard over 20 years ago has always stuck in my mind, and helped to shape my relationship with Jesus.  A simple song that goes “Lord I love you because of who you are, not for all the wondrous things that you have done...”  And I wonder why we don’t?  After all He is God, shouldn’t that be enough?  But for many it isn’t, and they struggle, both Christians and non-Christians.  They try bargain with God, “if you do this, I’ll obey you...” having a more intimate relationship with their golf game than the creator of the universe.  Or finding a place way down on their list of values, right after cars, home, careers, and family.  Did I miss one?  While some just call out to Him like Lois does, in time of needs.  Or when we can’t get ourselves out of the problem, we use God as a last resort.  When really He should be our first and only.  For Jesus is the original Superman, able to do all the things Superman did, plus offer eternal life.  Even Clark ages, remember he was born wrapped in a blanket, Jesus was wrapped in swaddling clothes, he was born supernaturally, and raised by a father who hadn’t bore him, just like Joseph raised Jesus.  And both started their career of helping others at age 30.  Is it possible that Jesus really is Superman, and we have missed it all this time?  Would you love Him more if He was?  Could the Man of Steel really be a subliminal message about Jesus Christ?  Superman saves lives, Jesus saves souls, could it be true?

But we also need to ask ourselves, who are we in Christ?  Are we just caught up in church, in religion, or living out life in a denomination?  Who are we, and what are we?  We are who we are, but we are also part of the family of God.  For no one who tells you we are all one tells the truth.  Only those who received Him did He give the right to be called sons of God.  Born of God, not the will of man.  John 1:13-14.  So to become family, we must know God, and the only way to know God is through Jesus, to be Born Again.  It is simple.  And again in Acts 1:8 tells us how we will be witnesses of God, when the spirit has come upon us.  Just saying it won’t do it, and uniting in anything but the spirit of God will cut you off short.  We need to love God for who He is, then all things will be added unto us.  He loves us first, then we love Him, we are saved and become family.  So who you are in Christ is important, and what you are is also. 

We walk by faith and not by sight, just  like Lois did.  Superman was there the whole time behind Clark’s glasses.  And she couldn’t see it.  But when Clark touched her cheek, like Superman had, she knew.  We see dimly, but we need to trust fully.  To be born again your heart must be touched by the Holy Spirit, no one ever set out to look for God without His urging.  And it is a romantic relationship, with the one who is love showing you the way.  Forgiving you, guiding you, and bringing joy into your life.  Giving you more power than you ever thought imaginable.  And able to do greater things than even the apostles did, that’s His promise.  So what is your excuse?  Still don’t believe a man can fly?  Or that He can be raised from the dead?  Why not try loving God just because He is God?  He loves you just because you are you, still don’t believe in miracles after that? 

And so another generation is introduced to Godzilla, and another generation is introduced to God.  The story of a super man goes on.  And it does have a happy ending for those who receive Him, for those what give their lives to Him.  Not Clark, but Jesus.  The only super man ever born, and who died for our sins-nothing no one else could, or ever would do.  So you see God, the original super hero did have a son, Jesus.  The story is still out on Lois and Clark.  We believe in Superman because we have seen him, yet we struggle with Jesus, because it takes faith.  Try a little faith today...look up in the sky...that’s how He’s coming back.  So be ready, soon is sooner than you think.

And now since you know so much about Superman, maybe you can answer this for me, why do bullets bounce of his chest, but he must duck when a gun is thrown at him?  On Krypton a father gave his son, so he might live, God gave us Jesus so we might live.  Jesus is who He is, our savior is what He is.  To be continued.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com