you light up my life

I find there are two types of people in the world. Those that brighten a room when they enter, and those that brighten a room when they leave. It is up to you to decide which one you are. And trust me, the clues are there. And certain types scare me. If you are the kind who always wears clean socks and underwear, in case you have to go to the hospital, or if you actually read the instructions, then follow them before starting a project, or if you have never written your first name where it says last name first-you scare me. But if you are the type who is fascinated by the fact that the ruby slippers were the same size as Dorothy's feet, who actually ride by tachometer, then translate rpm to speed, because you know the speedo is inaccurate, or don't trust a politician when he says "trust me," you people are my kind. You brighten my room, both ways-just remember you have to enter before you can leave.

The following is a test, based on the Bernard P. Fife School of Law Enforcement. He tells us that there are two rules in the jail-the first rule is obey all rules. Thanks to Mr. Clean Socks and Underwear here. But the second rule is no writing on the walls-it is hard to clean off. And here's to you who do, then are able to erase it, or better yet leave the solution to the problem written on the wall-hoping that it won't get erased before it is rewritten. The law versus the spirit-doing daily battle in a life near you-yours!

I have a problem with people just believing what is taught in church. Ask questions-the pastor will love it-it shows you are paying attention, and you might learn more. For instance, I don't like the moniker that Thomas has unfairly been given, Doubting Thomas. This dude had faith, read your Bible. And when not present in the upper room when Jesus returned after His crucifixion, He wanted the same evidence that the others had. He is just like us when the spirit comes upon us-HE WANTS TO SEE JESUS! And Jesus answered his prayer, giving him a private showing-but also leaving him with a lesson in faith. Blessed are those who believe and have not seen-it is called faith. By faith Thomas demanded-in faith Jesus answered, and by faith we will see Him someday soon. As for now, our hearts confirm His presence, just like the ones Jesus met on the road, again they were amazed how their hearts were touched when in His presence.

Nobody talks about the whale-it's all about Jonah. I figure here is a great chance for good liberals to club us about being cruel to the whale. Here is Mr. Blue Whale being cool, when one day while eating he swallows Jonah. And incurs this incredible stomach ache for three days. While swimming away from home, not feeling well, can't pass this meal from either end, and all we do is talk about Jonah. What was the whale thinking? Was he a good Christian whale wondering why God didn't answer his prayer? Maybe he believed in healing and lost faith when he wasn't? Or-maybe in three days, he became like the tomb, and couldn't hold his catch anymore-no matter how good it tasted and wanted to feast on it more. But when he finally vomits Jonah on shore, he is never mentioned again. All the trials and tribulation-then after yakking Jonah on shore-he is never mentioned. Ever feel like the whale, that something touches you and then it is gone, because no faith made you try to understand it? Your brief time to meet Jesus passes because you think he is just another meal? Or wrestle with God over something and all you come away with is a bad hip? Or after you do what God asks just bask in his glory, remembering that the book of Jonah is about God, not Jonah? Let's hear it for the whale. And if someone asks, point them to Jesus-they already read the book, now quiz them on it-or better yet, enlighten them.

Or are you still ditzing on Mrs. Job? One statement by her and "we sing we got the rope, we got the tree, all we need is Mrs. J!" Where is our compassion? This poor woman not only lost all her riches, but her children, her home, and was reduced to watching her husband suffering before her very eyes, and could do nothing. How many because God didn't jump to attention when you barked a request have given bad advice, maybe from a broken heart like hers, out of frustration? Or maybe her message was flawed, but the intent was honorable. You see I have instructions not to be CPRed back to life-I want heaven! How about if I curse you because you keep me alive? You see Mrs. Job was just like us-but didn't give up hope. She got the same rewards as Job did, but maybe not the full blessings. I will ask her when I see her in heaven. Don't make a judgment based on a single conversation! Aren't you glad God doesn't? Why not show the same mercy to others that He shows us? Just be glad she didn't take her advice into her own hands and did it for Job! I am so glad that none of us have ever done that-yeah.

Well, it's time to leave the room. If the room gets brighter, enjoy the law. If it gets darker when you leave, enjoy the spirit. For where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty-evidenced by the light! For Jesus is beauty and light, no darkness at all. Same room, same door. And he's knocking. Either let Him in, or leave the room. Either way never leave Him, He never leaves you.

And you may want to stay away from the beach-some huge fish have been spotted lately-big enough to swallow a man! Don't believe me? Put your hands in my sides-I know that fish, and the man who endured three days in it. Just don't tell my wife. You may not like the advice she gives you. And when she points you to Jesus, how will you answer?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

on the road again-soon

Captain Walter M. Schirra, aka Wally, was a customer of mine at Land Rover. He liked to come in and bench race with us, sometimes hanging out for hours between customers. He was always Wally to me, and I always found it strange he never told any space stories. He always referred to himself as a test pilot. After he would leave we would joke about places we had been, always ending with "ok, all those who have been to the moon, raise your hand," and of course in our joking Wally always won. A neat Guy, perhaps the ultimate USA traveler, as even though he went to the moon, he never left the USA. In all the pictures the flag is prominent. I wished I had asked him how it felt to travel millions of miles, and never leave the country. How many other countries can claim a planet of their own? The British may have bragged the sun never set on their empire, theirs was nothing compared to Wally's!

I love travelling the USA, by motorcycle. And once a trip is planned, the countdown till I leave is started. I actually have started in the 340 day range, and as it gets closer start to annoy people. Only 28 days to go, then 20, then 10. Then next Friday. The anticipation can be almost as much fun as the trip-almost, but nowhere near. In the lunch room one day, a wise guy tired of hearing my countdown, blurts out, "yeah, well it's only 28 days until you return." And I wondered if I hit him, would I be out in time to leave. It upset my anticipation. This different perspective from a guy who never vacates on vacation. Stays home and does "honey do's", a true vacation expert. And it makes me think sometimes that the sucker was right. But I never count the days till it ends, only till it starts. Perspective-don't listen to losers.

My recent accident has really put me down-no riding. And I have between 2-4 months before I will heal-an eternity of riding. It may mean February, and no I am not counting the days. I am praying God will shorten them, I want to heal, better yet I want to ride, and travel. And it can be a dangerous thing to give an active mind like mine too much time, it travels on its own. And thinks about many things-on its own. I am so appreciative of all the cards, calls, visits, and prayers. But like in my visits, after a week or so they taper off. And I find myself alone, where before I was overwhelmed. So I try to enforce a 14 day rule on myself. After births, deaths, accidents, etc. I try to follow up in two weeks. When things have settled down, and all returns to normal, whatever that may be. And I find that they can mean more than the rapid first response. Someone still remembers, and cares! An example set by Jesus, after His death. He came back to the apostles, and 500 others to show He cared-love shown via resurrection. And He never leaves us alone now, as I can attest to. He continues to visit, I find it fascinating the more I need Him, how His schedule changes to meet mine. Now if I could only get it right, and change my schedule to meet His! Just a thought for all us errant brothers and sisters who wonder, because we wandered, from Jesus. But I find He is always right there, and unlike Wally's excursion to the moon, the travel time is much shorter.

While laying in bed sleepless because of the pain in my knees, God took me back to an old album called "It's a Beautiful Day." The name of the group and album. Recorded in 1972, and with only FM play-remember when FM was young and the DJs would play whole songs, and whole albums-this was one. Their hit was White Bird, but he took me to side two, to Time is.... And reminded me that "time is too short for those who laugh." And I find that despite circumstances, I still have plenty to laugh about-even more if being laughed at is included. But the verse He impressed me with was "for those who really love, time is eternal..." And reminded me of my trip to earth.

We aren't from here, our home is heaven. And where we take 2-3 week vacations here, He has given us a sabbatical on earth of 70 years on average. And how much I miss home. And even though I love being on the road, heaven still calls. And like the call of the highway, someday it will be answered. I don't know when, or I'd start my countdown. God is not a fortune teller, but He knows. All I can be sure of is I am closer to heaven today than I was yesterday, but farther away than I will be tomorrow. So until I go home, I will continue to enjoy life, in Christ. Plan my trips, and also my recovery. I already have been sitting on motorcycles, and can ride if I have too. Riding is right up there with breathing, eating, and morning constitutionals. Knowing that someday I will go home. And even though my USA if not quite as big as Wally's, there is still much I want to see. Pray that Theresa and I continue to travel until our final trip home.

And just to remind me I will someday get to heaven, God reminded me of the old Marshall Tucker song, "Heard it in a Love Song." And the words "heard it in love song, can't be wrong..." Jesus, God's love song to us. A promise from God. Until it is your time to go, enjoy life in Christ. Read His book, don't wait for the movie. Bet you didn't know Jesus was into rock and roll! Simply put, He is the rock, and my name is on the role!

Everyone going to heaven-raise your hand! Good, show it even if you take it off the handlebars for a second or two. Bikers-wave to all your fellow riders-a wave to remind them that you are going to heaven, and when bench racing, don't forget to share about your upcoming trip. Someday soon, going with Him, someday soon. Sorry Miss Collins, just had to throw that in.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

if I have to explain, you wouldn't understand

Science tells us that your personality is directly related to the dominant side of your brain that you use. No comments please. The left tends to make you orderly and reality based, things must be black or white and practical. Analytical, cold and factual. Things must be seen. The right side is more romantic, has boundless imagination, and therefore sees more possibilities than just meet the eye. It hears the background vocals, feels the pulse of your engine, and sees things in romantic terms-terms of the heart. You may want an engineer to be left brained, but you would want a right brained person to do the design of the car. Such right side brain examples are Triumph Bonnevilles, the original Z-1, the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray, and a beautiful woman. The song Amazing Grace. Form that outweighs function. Not graded on a chart, but on how it effects you and your actions. While left brain advocates can point to the 265/283/327/350 small block Chevy. Logical improvements on a tried and true formula. Don't fix what ain't broke!

A romantic person plays music, while a logical person plays notes. Both make up songs, but the right sided person will hear all the orchestra, and can jam in his head with the the other musicians, he hears it before it happens. Years ago when I went to concerts I always liked the jam sessions, when the songs didn't sound like on the albums. Why pay good money to hear an album, even if it is live. But alas many would leave disappointed because they didn't sound like on the album. They paid for something familiar, and that is what they want. For that I pity you left brainers, you can be like a slow car in the left lane. Obeying the speed limit, but causing others to stumble. Safe in the assumption you are legally correct, no matter how it effects others. Some years ago the Beach Boys did their music with country western greats, and the arrangements were incredible. Willie Nelson sang "Warmth of the Sun," after being chided by Mike Love of the Beach Boys on how to sing it. He insisted he was Willie Nelson, and without ever hearing the song before, turned it into a beautiful ballad on the first take, even had the Willie "lilt" in it. You can't teach heart, or harmony-you either have it or you don't. And Willie understands both. Just like Karen Carpenter singing Superstar from a napkin, and the first take was all it took. No need to tell the others, they knew. You know when something special is happening, even if it breaks all the rules. Being in harmony, or in tune, puts you into a different spirit. From the heart...

Moses was in a different spirit when he went to get the 10 Commandments from God. Moses was in the spirit, but the tablets God gave him were stone, not representing God, but the audience for whom they were written. Like many today. God writes His love on our hearts, as He did to Moses, but legalism writes it on tablets, cold and hard. Isn't that loving? That is why Moses wore a mask, he didn't want God's glory to fade from him, the spirit. He never wanted to lose that experience, that oneness with God.

Listening to some old songs tonight, yes they were secular, reminded me of being in the spirit. I love singers who can scream in harmony, like Grace Slick on Nothings Gonna Stop Us, or Lindsay Buckingham on Go Your Own Way. Paul McCartney also has the gift, no matter the volume, they can wail. They don't compete with the instruments, but they all compliment each other. They know when to lead, and when to assist. And without each other in harmony, each playing their part, it wouldn't make a song, but just notes without feeling. Just like the Holy Spirit. He can fit any mood, and brings all the harmonies in your life together perfectly. He takes bad things and turns them to good, allowing you to endure the circumstances, even if you don't care for the situation. Nothing that a set of instructions could ever do. No rules, you know the tune, live with a studio audience in heaven. He brings life, allows you to get it right on the first take, and takes over your whole heart-not just the right or left.

It is like riding on a pretty day. The law says it is 85 degrees, humidity 30%, and the speed limit 70. The spirit sees the warmth from the sun, hears the music of the exhaust note, smells the air he is in, and is at peace. The ride being the destination. Maybe that is why so many quit riding, it is just a set of mechanical actions. They never leave the yard they were taught in. And maybe that is why so many Christians don't have full joy. They fall into legalism. They only see the visible. Where the spirit opens up the eyes of your heart, and you experience things that your body has no sensory organs for. It comes from the heart, a oneness. A harmony of hearts, that voices could never make up.

If you are in the spirit, you know of what I write. If not, you may accuse us of being careless, when really we are carefree. Safe in the knowledge of Jesus Christ, a relationship far beyond any words ever devised or written can explain. The perfect date, on the perfect ride, with the perfect God. You see the spirit believes all things, and doesn't need constant reminding. It trusts, and where the sunset ends, realizes its road is just beginning. A true right brained experience, with a God who loves you just as you are.

Maybe that is why God says make a joyful noise. It isn't the words, the tone, or tune that He hears, it the spirit you sing it with. And His spirit makes it a harmony, a message that compliments both the singer and the hearer, making them one.

Your life may just be tuned to a certain set of specs, like a fine tuned engine. But without a relationship with that engine it will never sing the song it is designed to sing. Jesus is that song-a tune for every day and every event. Loud or soft, He fits the mood. You see there is a lot to be said for being in touch with the spirit.

The rest of you, well, like ELO sings you will Turn to Stone, because of your hard heartedness. God is a spirit, and must be worshipped as such. Getting it more and enjoying less-let the spirit of God loose in your life. Ride roads never explored, sings songs never heard, and see things through the eyes of the one who created it. Romance never felt so good.

And you left brainers thought it was just a pump...and its creator just a....where the spirit of the Lord is there is liberty. Turn up the volume, twist the throttle, and sing aloud with joy! Gets my motor running!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

and you said at their church they did what? and had fun!

Mischief night we used to call it. The night before Halloween when we would go out and be-mischievous! And when and where I was growing up that meant taking a bar of soap and soaping car windows. Only certain ones though, depending on coolness of car or threat potential from owner if you got caught. The real mischievous ones would collect dog turds, then put them in a paper bag, light it on fire on someone's porch-ring the bell and run. I never did this but I heard about the laughter when someone would step on it to put it out. Nothing dangerous-it was mischief! And no one I knew, or had even heard of, had hurt anyone or been hurt themselves. Or thought about the devil or demons or anything occult having to do with Halloween. It was mischief night-and so long as you got back by 800pm curfew, your parents didn't know, and if they did never said anything.

But when I was in high school, things changed in Newark. Untamed people used this as a night to vandalize and destroy-and that brought Mischief Night to an end. And to me it was also the beginning of seeing the tie in with Halloween and the devil. You see he can only operate in the dark for so long, at some point he just has to come out and show himself-such is his pride. In the 80's, living in Durango, they turned Halloween night into a huge downtown party. All the bars would stay open late, and people would cover the streets in costumes-again much different from when we were kids. Candy was dandy, I guess liquor was quicker!

As kids we would wear these cheesy costumes that barely fit over our winter coats and gloves. It is cold in New Jersey in late October, so you dressed warm. Sweating underneath, as you ran from door to door-parents close behind, not for protection but to visit the neighbors and say thanks. And to secretly take their favorite candy when it was given out. All the time grinning and sweating under a cheap plastic mask, the thin elastic strap that held it on cutting into your head-truly one size didn't fit all. Then when in Junior high, we would dress as bums, carrying our pillowcases until they drug on the ground from the weight. We would take our old clothes, rub dirt on them, and cut holes in them to look poor-much like the designer jeans of today. But the special effect was burning cork and rubbing it all over faces. It would make any preteen look like he had a beard, and was unwashed-needing little help with the latter. And when we arrived home by 10pm, throw the pillowcase open and separate the candy-good that you liked, and the bad you would trade. Collect the pennies, and give the apples to your mother. Then try to sleep after 2000 calories of candy bars and a night's adventure. It was all about the candy-or so we thought.

Today Halloween is recognized by many for what it is-All Hallows Eve, the devil's night. And many dress like ghouls, witches, or ghosts tempting fate-not realizing who they represent. For many years now churches all over the USA have been having Harvest Festivals, and providing a safe place for kids to trick or treat. Based on the original day after Halloween, it brings many out from the community. An alternative to what the world offers-safe, fun, and a great place for parents to enjoy the time with others. Did I say it was fun?

At Calvary Chapel Escondido, our CMA chapter has been part of the night for some years now. We let kids and adults sit on our bikes, rev the motors, then run off getting their parents, or their kids to return again. And we even get to dress up-like bikers. And you know how so many like to dress like bikers-just look at the huge number of posers on weekends. But it is a time for showing Jesus Christ in a different light, one of fellowship and love. No preaching-words would not bring the smile to a face that the sound of open pipes do. And they remember who let them do it, and it creates a relationship-we now have earned the right to share Jesus with them-in words. Giving them tracts, and candy, hugs and even offering prayer, we have more more fun than anyone else. You see bikes are cool, but combining them with Jesus is the ultimate cool. And many see that hey if Jesus loves bikers, then He must be cool, too. And you thought it took four spiritual laws or a Roman's Road tract-when all it may take is 750cc of horsepower on two wheels. Maybe like mischief night, Halloween, Christmas, and a never ending weekend all wrapped up in one glorious night.

So I invite you to Calvary Chapel Escondido this Halloween night, and then back again for church. You won't be a stranger, you will have a friend saving a seat for you. And hear about a God who sent His son to die for you-so you may live. Times change, Jesus doesn't. And although the devil has his day, Jesus can have your life. Come for the candy and fun, and return as a friend. Not many places you can have dessert first, then the main meal. Hope to see you there. Encourage others to go to events at their church. Maybe if no one shows up at Satan's party, he'll go home early. Enough mischief for one day.

Friends, we are taking back what is ours. Jesus is winning. I sneaked and read the end of the book-WE WIN!Be part of the celebration. Every Sunday, everyday, or every motorcycle.

And save the soap for washing up after-you get awfully hot and sweaty playing the games and revving the throttles. Jesus Christ-He's not just for Easter and Christmas anymore!

love with compassion, and a bit of mischief,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

an open letter from the heart

On October 17, 2009 I was hit from behind by a woman driving a car who lost concentration when dealing with her young grand daughter. We found out at the scene she has terminal cancer. She is already on many of your prayer lists, if not please add her. The following is a letter to her. Although personal, we all may have people like this in our lives we need to pray for. I join with you in a hearty amen to them, with you. Let God be greater than any problems you have.

Dear Beverly,

I am the man who you ran into with your car on Saturday. That is my motorcycle stuck in your grill. This is not how I would have chosen to meet you, but obviously God has allowed this arrangement. It is a day that has changed my life, I probably will need knee surgery, and my wife still bears the burden of seeing me hit right in front of you. But we bear no anger towards you, or your family. In fact, I may be the best friend you have.

I write a daily devotion via my blog, Matthew25biker.blogspot.com. It is a Christian based devotions, based upon events in my life, mostly with motorcycles. It is read on six continents, I couldn't tell you how many thousands read it and pass it along. But this group of readers also compromises my prayer list, and I have sent out prayer for you and your cancer. I think it is safe to say that there are over a million people praying for someone they don't know, and love, who just happened to hit me. As you have been added to their prayer lists also. Our family is big and loving. And I have been praying, even at the accident scene. I began praying for you as soon as I heard of your cancer, and have spent more time in prayer over you there, and at the hospital than for myself. That is the heart of God He has given me.

I don't know where you are in a relationship with Jesus Christ, but I believe you pray. And God's answer is always the same-LOVE! And He points to His son, Jesus. My question to you is , where are you with Jesus Christ? He understands all the emotions of anger, pain, doubt, fear, and all the others than can cloud our minds. He is the way, the truth, and the life. And He forgives, so that all our sin is washed clean. Heaven awaits, and I can think of no better place that I rather be. But because God is love, He gives us a choice whether to love Him or not. And the only way to Him is through Jesus-simple, huh. That is my first prayer, salvation, for if you aren't saved no pain medicine or healing processes will keep you from hell. And it is by grace, a gift, with no attachments.

We are also praying for complete healing of your cancer. God promises this world will give us tribulations, just look around. And you don't have to look very far. But He promises to take us through it, with our trip to heaven in death the final and perfect healing. He also promises a peace on earth that surpasses understanding. Along with that we pray for complete healing.

When Joseph was kidnapped by his brothers, and sold into slavery, he could have been vindictive. But he chose God in his situation, just as I have. I have no vindictiveness, no hate towards you. My prayer is God's will be done, just like it was for Joseph. Who when called upon, was able to save his entire family from famine. His words, "what the devil meant for evil, God meant for good." And our meeting is the opportunity for God to prove this again. God will make something great out of this, I am sure. I expect nothing less from Him.

Rest in Jesus, make Him your fortress right now. Let the bitterness of sin and strife be gone. He has already begun the therapy, it is up to you how you respond. Our insurance companies will handle our accident, let Jesus handle your life. Our prayers will continue until we hear from God to stop. Love covers a multitude of sins, and today is that day of salvation. Hopefully next time we meet I can embrace you as a sister in Christ. Until then never doubt what God can do!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

warm if by land, cool if by sea, part II

There are many roads, but there is only one "the ride." There are also many destinations, but only one special place at the end of that ride. For many bikers it is the Pacific Coast Highway-1200 miles of coastline in three states-mostly US 101, but also CA 1 in California. But there is a special 120 mile section that bikers refer to as Highway 1, and this ultimate piece of road is what they mean by the PCH when talking of special roads. Secluded, and once you start it no turning back. This is the stretch of road always in the top 10 rides in the US, called by many the ultimate one. A destination dreamed of by many, with the sentence ending in some day.... Running north from San Luis Obispo, to Carmel, it is some of the most breath taking views of mountains and sea ever created. Weather will be anything from fog to sun to high winds, and always chilly, but never the same for the entire ride. But it is the road that calls you, the legends of the curves, and drops in elevation-the cliffs on one side and the ocean sometimes 1000' below on the other-with no guard rails to spoil the beauty. It is every bikers dream destination, and with that in mind, my friend Rex and I set out to ride it in March of 1982.

Rex had moved from Durango to Prescott, and I would leave Durango and meet him on the way. I was riding my 1981 KZ750, an underestimated ride, as at that time anything not saying Honda on the tank was an other. Rex was on his XS850 Yamaha, a strange 3 cylinder bike with shaft drive-unusual then, and even now. And as we rode up the coast anticipating Highway 1, we were acting like this was our first ride anywhere. We had heard the stories, and knew the legacy, but didn't realize what God had planned for us that trip. Hey, we lived in Durango, we had the Loop, through Silverton and over Red Mountain Pass-we knew good roads. But God knew better. And still does.

As we arrived in Cambria-last chance for 100 miles to get gas, we were told that the road was closed 30 miles north due to a landslide from heavy rains. It was late in the day, and we decided to at least ride what we could that afternoon. Finding the Piedra Blanca Motel still open, about 20 miles north of Cambria, we became its only guests that night. After eating a dinner back in Cambria, we rode through the thick fog and were in for the night. Except that the crashing waves called us to the beach to walk and observe the cliffs and lights from the motel above. Think of the Hound of the Baskervilles with perfect roads and an ocean-then you get the eerily beautiful effect. Then we settled in for the night-and made each other a pledge, that if something ever happened to the other, they would see that the families were taken care of. Little did I know that in less than three weeks I would be distributing Rex's goods, honoring that agreement, as he was to die of an enlarged heart soon after, never able to put his arm out to break his fall as he walked off the softball field. Dead at age 32. But that night we slept well, or at least as well as any kid on Christmas Eve, the anticipation of the next day's ride dancing in our head. For many the road closure would be a bummer, the end to a trip, but to us it meant over 30 miles of perfect road with no cars-so we rode it all morning at speeds no normal rider would, safe in the fact that this gift from God wouldn't last, and we wanted every minute to count. A day where God said "go have fun and ride," and we did, having more fun than should be legal. An answer to a prayer we never would have asked-who in their right mind would/could expect Highway 1 to be closed for your road racing pleasure?

We so often forget that this is the day that the Lord has made, and to rejoice and be glad in it. That day we remembered. Often life interferes with our plans, and life can be overwhelming. But it is to be enjoyed, for no man is promised tomorrow. And rather than have circumstances dictate our lives, we need to let God be God, and live life to the fullest. Whether on the ultimate road, or on the way there, God is always with us, and that makes everyday special. And just as we could have been bummed over not riding to Carmel on the length of Highway 1, God gave two riders the dream of their lives-every time I tell the story I have never met anyone else who had the privilege we did that day. Christmas came in March that year, and I can still taste the salt air and feel the bitter cold unique along that stretch of coast. And the exhilaration of that ride. And of course, it was all about the road, and the one I rode with.

Although I have ridden Highway 1 numerous times, it has never had the same effect as it did that day. In fact, it is almost boring to me. So, I make it a point to always ride it with someone who never has, and watch as they are overwhelmed by its seductive beauty, only made more so when I tell of the ride Rex and I had. "No way," they'll say, "that isn't fair!" Who said life was?

When we started out to ride Highway 1, we didn't know what laid ahead. And to many the NO answer we got on the road conditions would have ruined many a vacation, and a relationship. But God had something better, and still does. No can also mean I have something better for you when God is involved, and my experience has always been He has. So enjoy today, be blessed as Psalm 1 desires us to be, and if the road is closed, experience the detour that takes you where you would not have gone. And brings you closer to a God that you might not know. There are many roads, but very few special rides. And we aren't usually warned about the best ones. Keep your mind and heart open to God, and watch as He provides more and better than your limited mind can imagine. Every ride may not be Highway 1, but any day can be enjoyed in the Lord. And we as Christians should have more fun than anyone-so go and enjoy today! And if you can, do it with someone, so that you have someone to share the memories with. Sadly I have no film of that day, only the file in my 35mm memory, and no Rex to share it with. But I love to remember the trip, and share it with God many times, for although there were only two bikes, there were three riders that day. Don't know how, but Jesus rides, so I never ride alone.

May today be that special day that you realize that, and build precious memories to share with others. As for me and my family-we will ride with the Lord. On the road with Jesus-now that's the ultimate highway 1!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

warm if by land, cold if by sea-part 1

California's central coast is one of my favorite places to ride, or anything else for that matter. For me the 250 mile stretch of land between Santa Barbara and Hollister is one of beauty, great roads, and great places to eat. Combine that with small towns, that still have charm, ocean vistas, mountains, and the breadbasket of California, the San Joaquin Valley, and you have an incredibly diverse area. Like none other our great USA has to offer. But it is also an area of great contradictions, as we will see.

Leaving Paso Robles on any summer day, you know the temps will hit 100 that afternoon. Driving over the 46 west you can either take the highway, and enjoy the curves, or take Santa Rosa Creek Road, and enjoy the vistas, and farm country-adding another hour to you ride to Cambria. Many times we have set off, packing jackets on 100 degree days, because you don't know what awaits you once you cross over the pass. We have been in Cambria on the fourth of July in 50 degree weather, only to come back where it is over 100 in Paso! And the fog will be so thick that you cannot see the Morro rock, or even the ocean. Within only 30 miles you visit two different seasons, and unsurpassed beauty.

Leaving Santa Barbara with its Mediterranean climate you can go over San Marcos Pass, and there again pick up 30 degrees of heat in 10 miles. Take the old farm roads that have been paved and graded perfectly for motorcycles since wine has become king, and enjoy the rides. Roads that once were for trucks and wagons, now are perfectly paved for the wine testers-and bikers. I am sure we were not included in the planning, but these roads are great biker roads. From Foxen Canyon Road, to Santa Maria-then pick up Corbett Canyon Road in Arroyo Grande, then after San Luis Obispo take the small country roads, some with no other names than the ranches they go to, and enjoy a much slower, yet challenging pace. For those adventurous, take Indian Valley Road out of San Miguel, and then CA 25 to Hollister-over 100 miles with no gas or McDonalds-just you, the road, your ride, and God. Anybody up for a ride?

But riding to the coast reminds me of my relationship with God. The sun/son is always there, no matter the cloud cover, sometimes it takes faith to carry on when you can't see it. You don't know when, if ever it will break through, but you know that just above the clouds is the sun-and warmth. God is like that-sometimes the days are sunny, and you bask in His presence-and others are cloudy-but He is always there. And always shows Himself just when needed-based on His time, not ours. It is a faith ride that keeps us going, knowing that the other side can be clear and warm, even though we are cold and wet. It is the absence of sight, feeling, and presence of God that builds our faith, and gives us great reasons to be thankful even though we can't sense Him-we know He is there.

And from the top of the mountain, you can look west and see the ocean, or east and the golden hills. And the small roads that criss cross the area. Yet while riding we cannot see what's around the corner. Yet we take them leaned over, knee dragging, and exiting building speed-and adrenalin. The faith we have based on making it before, so why not now. And God seeing all the roads, and what is ahead-guiding us by His spirit from above-if we let Him. Truly the best roads are travelled with Him. We ride by faith, not by sight.

Today your day may not be starting out the best. You may have clouds where there once was sun. You have cold, when warmth is needed. You are about to travel a familiar road, yet somehow the old landmarks don't look the same. This is the time to trust God-to ride on no matter the obstacle. For the same God that has allowed them into your life, has also given you the way through them. Some of my best days riding have started cold and wet, yet when ending in the sun you can forget the trip through the rain. God allows us to get through-and when we can't, and sin, allows u-turns to get us back to Him. We ride by faith, not by sight.

So let your walk reflect this also. Things not going your way-remember it is the rain and fog that makes things green. Rough road-slow down and enjoy the beauty you may have missed at higher speeds. And if the road is clear-enjoy the day God has given you. Meditate on Him while riding-wave to other bikes, stop and take a few pictures, and grab a bite to eat. Be brave and breakfast at Cowgirl Cafe-then set off without a map just following the road-and maybe take one you haven't before. Step out in faith with a God who demands faith to be pleased, and watch as a cloudy day can turn into the best day in weeks.

So many roads and so little time. God also sees so many souls, and so little time. Let the evangelist in you take you places you have never been, on roads not yet ridden, on a motorcycle as your companion. Ride by faith, and enjoy the sights not seen other words. See God's handiwork, dress in layers, and spend time with God while being able to ride. What you make of today is how you use the gifts God has given you. Have one that makes you want to send postcards of blessings to all your friends.

And next time, invite them along-it's called fellowship. Better enjoyed with friends who ride-so let's ride, in faith and all day long.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com