best of all...

"Best of all...it's a Cadillac" their ads used to say. And as the ultimate in automotive luxury for over 75 years, they were also known as the Standard of the World. So in an age after WWII when luxury meant longer, lower, and wider-they also added high performance V-8 engines, tail fins, and every option you could think of to make their car the ultimate in luxury, and a car that all up and coming businessmen aspired to. Your final destination in your evolution of car ownership had to be a Cadillac. For it was like the ads said, plus it allowed the world to know you were someone and had arrived in life.

And into the 70's, Cadillac had no peer, its closest competition coming from Lincoln, and sometimes Imperial. But it was always a Cadillac that you longed for. And up until the 1977 model year they were the longest-some over 21' long, compare that to your 20' garage, with engines up to 472 cubic inches-compare that to a wimpy 4.1 litre, and with over 400 horsepower and a torque rating exceeding 500-more than some of the heavy duty diesel pickups of today. If excessive meant luxury, these were the most luxurious in any category. Bench seats, no buckets eats here. You could be seen with your wife/girlfriend/mistress riding together, right next to you. Remember how romantic that was? And with over a 100,000 Coupe De Villes sold then, you didn't need to ride in a stodgy old four door-they could even make a 2 door, 5000 pound car look sexy and fast.

My friend, mentor, and chiropractor-Gerald had a 1976 Coupe de Ville. A root beer color, with tan leather and a tan leather top, it took up most of the space in front of their house. And couldn't be parked in the garage, as the dip in the driveway was too much, and the rear bumper would drag-remember those times. With a Mafia rated four body trunk, it was just as long in the back, as it was in the front. And the fact it was a 1976 was critical, as GM had decided to downsize their cars for the 1977 model year. Factors such as fuel economy, and availability contributed, but also smaller luxury makes from Europe were invading the market, and a demand was there. But Gerald and his generation still believed in the bigger is better, and clung to the old style cars. Much talk, and courage was needed to buy the new downsized version-it was some 13-19 inches shorter, weighed 1000 pounds less, and had a smaller motor-it was the size of a large Ford at the time-and don't think Ford with its LTD missed reminding you of that in their ads. An era of automotive design, and excessive opulence had come to an end, and for many it meant hanging on to their older car rather than trading every other year-or every year as the styles used to change yearly, and who wanted to get caught in last years model. That was so-middle class. But suddenly, with the tables turned on them-it was the cool thing to keep your larger Cadillac. At least for a couple of years until the public either accepted the smaller version, or rejected them and big came back. Like the Bible says, to he who is given much, much is expected-and Cadillac gave them all they needed in a car, and more.

Paul also says in his letter to the Philippians, "I have been poor, and I have been rich, I know how to get through both situations-I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." And truly we can, too. For even as the world draws us into the web of lust and luxury-it provides no way out, and little consolation for the not as well endowed, aka the poor. Whereas the world looks to the government, or monthly payments, Paul advises us to look to Christ. And not look at the situation.

But many do not take this advice. As in the past year, when the world economy sank, I have seen my own home lose 50% of its value. Wiped out my 401k, all while I sat helplessly. I know men who were millionaires, and lost their businesses and homes, reduced to employee status again, instead of employer. Sometimes taking a toll on family and health. Knowing both luxury, and then being glad just to have the basics. A life change that can be disastrous, without Christ. Fortunately I chose Jesus, the right decision. You see happiness is based on situations-ask the Charger fans. Before the game jubilant-after disappointed and bummed. Same team-just different circumstances. That is why Paul counts it all joy to know Christ, and why we should turn only to Him in all situations. He never changes-no money shortage in heaven, or payments missed. No overpaid bankers, or government lies and involvement-just Jesus.
And He doesn't change, which is why we look to Him in all situations. He has taken us, and many like us, through tough times, with a smile on our face, and also in our hearts. No matter what the need, He is adequate in seeing that it is met. And after asking, is faithful to complete the good work He has started in us. Recently I was reminded of this, when I received an e-mail from a woman in Theresa's Bible study. She had miscarried, and the baby was still in her womb. Her husband had lost his job, they had no insurance, and no money-$5000 needed for the operation to complete her stillborn pregnancy. But she is a woman of faith, and gave the situation to Jesus. And waited, while He waited with her. Finally after a few days a call came from church-someone had stepped up when hearing of the need, and given the money-all of it needed, for the surgery! Blessing both the giver and the receiver. And we stand in awe of what Jesus will do in your situation, if you only seek Him and let Him. You see more important than the luxury afforded by the world, is the luxury of knowing Jesus, and letting Him into your life.

I don't know how long Gerald hung onto that '76 Coupe de Ville, but I know this woman will hang onto Jesus forever. You see love, never goes out of style. Has no yearly model changes, doesn't respond to public outcry, and never goes on vacation. God and His love are always present-a Standard of the World, but really a Standard from Heaven. Styles change-He doesn't. So in your next or current situation-look to the cross, instead of your problem/situation. The answer is there-a someone instead of a something. And doesn't that make it that much more personal. Gerald loved his car, but his car could never love Him. A stark contrast to why we love God-because He loved us first.

Best of all-He's Jesus!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the battle for men's soles

You may not realize it, but your shoes started defining you early in life. As a kid it was sneakers-or sneaks, and then as you got into first grade it was the first big decision-P.F. Flyers or U.S. Keds. Then the next pair increased the choices-black or white, and high or low tops? And then you got to junior high school-and encountered the most hallowed ground in it-the gym floor. Where no street shoes were allowed, so you trashed your white socks or wore sneakers. And if you played sports it was Converse All Stars, we never called them Cons then. And the choice of the cool players was high top white, where you could write your name in marker down the back, and show off the cool All Star label on the inside of your ankle. Still sneakers-only purpose built. And as my friend Larry, who works for Converse says, he can get you any color as long as it isn't black or white-he jokes. As you can get them in plaid, pink, blue, as sandals, and with skulls. And you can still wear them on that hallowed ground at school.

Now I don't think of myself as sophisticated, but last week at California Speedway for the WERA races, I noted the racers wearing their expensive race boots. Custom tailored and obviously engineered for speed and comfort-take a trip in sneakers and see how your arches hurt-you need support for putting your feet on the pegs-they were plastic, leather, in bright colors and some even were tapered aerodynamically at the heel. I am not sure how far we have come, but I cannot picture Dick Mann and Gary Nixon in them. I never saw Cal Rayborn wearing designer boots, and you didn't see them in On Any Sunday. But this Sunday, and other Sundays, if style and matching boots wins races, more power to them.

Seems we live in a specialty world, influenced by design. Just looking in my wife's closet she has warm up shoes, running shoes, walking shoes, crossovers-whatever that means, and tennis shoes-sneakers to those raised back east-each with a purpose, and all looking the same to me. And it reminds me of another battle for men's souls. And how confusing it can be.

Tell me how I get to heaven, please. Simply put, believe in your heart, and confess with your mouth, Jesus died for your sins, and was raised again, and you are saved. That's it-even says so in the Bible. But yet when talking with other Christians, questions like where do you go to church, how do you baptize, and do you believe in works for salvation come up. Designer gospel-not in the Bible, but designed by man to make himself look better. Or you worse. If I believe, but you have a list of good works-you must be better. And if your church has more services, a pastor called reverend, and a paid organist-well you must really be spiritual. I can tell by the way you talk-it's all about you!

Stop and think. None of that makes you more spiritual-in fact it takes away from Jesus, who in everything He did pointed to God. Does your church point to Jesus, or to works? Or to the pastor? Or to the fact of how great a job they are doing in the community? You may be surprised to find God looks dimly on such things. If it's not all about Jesus, He tells you that you are in sin. You cannot serve two masters, and your double mindedness will cause you to stumble. And who wants to stumble, particularly in your new sneakers?

Take a look around, and if your fellowship has more style than scripture, ask God what to do. Then when He answers, do it. Seek Him first, then all things will be added. And consider this, if we are supposed to be of one spirit, and one accord-how do we look to the non-saved when we bicker over petty differences? We are supposed to stand out from the world by our love, not our denominational feuds. Maybe we all need to take off our street shoes, and stand on holy ground, together. Take the hand next to you and pray for that person. And then the one on the other side. And show love to all within the place. And then take it outside. And maybe, you will find we are all the same in Christ, yet individual enough to be different.

Jesus Christ-always in style, and always the right thing at the right time. Try Him out today, and find that the battle for your soul has been won, in fact we have been celebrating it for 2000 years. Grab onto Him, and stand on holy ground, no matter the soles of your shoes, and enjoy freedom-with mercy and grace mixed in. Love with a heavenly design, and not soon to go out of style.

See you in church-sneakers welcome. No fancy style needed here-be yourself in Jesus. High tops optional.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the invaders

"David Vincent has seen them, for him it started on a deserted road, looking for a shortcut he never found. It began with a deserted diner, and a man too long without sleep to continue. Now he must try to convince an unbelieving world that these aliens exist..."

And so begins The Invaders, a Quinn Martin Production. And for 43 weekly episodes in the late 60's, we watched as David Vincent tried to show a non-believing world that an alien invasion was already taking place. An alien, who we never see in its true form, but that electronically has taken on human characteristics, with the following abnormalities. Their pinkies are kinked, although some may not be. They have no pulse, and when cut don't bleed. And when they are injured, they disintegrate,taking along any evidence of whatever they have touched, disintegrating with them. And of course there were some rebel aliens, who were against the invasion, but who could tell the good from the bad? Disappearing-leaving no evidence-but David knows, but how do you tell an unbelieving world the truth?

While channel surfing yesterday while watching the Chargers fold, I stopped where a well known, but scandalous TV evangelist was asking for $1000 donations-of seed faith. And I thought of the Haitians, with nothing, and was reminded why this lie doesn't play there. Money-these people need food. They are hungry-not greedy. Where are you in Matthew 25? I know. I thought of Oral Roberts, who died last month, and how he once came out and said if he didn't get $X millions of dollars, God would take him home. And I was reminded how the love of money is the ROOT of all evil. For those of us who are Christians, if you take heaven out of the equation-you have no equation. For that is where God is, and where we want to go. My word to Oral would have been-"do you really believe? Or are you so mired in your own worldly system that you don't want to?" Maybe His scripture read "greater is me who is in the world, than broke without it." And for this other guy, why not send the money to Haiti via Samaritans Purse, a well respected Christian ministry, that is already on the ground there? Or is your gospel one of money and greed? You are not from us-but an aberration. And God will deal with you and those like you severely-His words, not mine!

You see the aliens are here-Mike Mohn has seen them. And encountered them, one on one. Once during a church visit, as eight of us left in shock, at the cultic practices that took place, perverting the gospel of the God of the Bible-while others stayed behind. And how one assistant pastor now hates me, because I took a stand against this heresy. Had he been in the word, instead of weekly sermons based on current events, he would be able to see the lies and deception-but as it is doesn't want to upset anyone. And is selling out his soul. Are you able to see through the deception of a cult that even uses the name of Jesus Christ in its name, but denies His deity, saying He is the half brother of Satan? Do you let them in your home? Or how about another cult, who claims that you do not need Jesus, because you haven't sinned and there is no heaven?

Do not be deceived, the aliens-those who look like but are not Christians are out there. They even know all the buzz words, and may even hang out with believers. But Jesus says BE GONE-I NEVER KNEW YOU! And don't be afraid to confront them-in love. And after they expose themselves-flee from them and their evil-staying close to God. And as John says-DO NOT EVEN LET THEM IN YOUR HOUSE-OR WISH THEM GOD SPEED! That's pretty harsh, but as I learned a few years ago, they don't have to win an argument to win, just start one. Cause discord, confusion, and turn people to rules instead of Jesus. The spirit of anti-christ is here. And they know exactly what they are doing. Yes David Vincent is correct-the aliens are here. And we must let an unbelieving world know. But what we must let them know is Jesus is the answer, the way to heaven. And follow Him, and the aliens, or cultists will have to go elsewhere for recruits. It is a tough world, the price to be paid is your soul. And this is not science fiction-but truth. Who do you say Jesus is? He is the true son of God, who died and was resurrected for our sins. Believe and receive.

For the past few minutes I hope God has had hold of your heart. And I hope He continues for the rest of the day. For some day you will be held accountable, but for now we live on earth-maybe the sick and dying planet that the aliens are from. For we truly are aliens here whose citizenship is in heaven. And I can't wait to get home. I don't need your seed faith money either, my ticket is bought and paid for-in full. Hope to see you there soon.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

a road test for relationships

A popular saying back in the 70's was "opinions are like Honda's, everybody has one." It also referred to the human part of our anatomy where we sit, but I think you get the idea. We all have opinions about things, which sometimes will out weigh the facts-distorting the truth. For instance, I am doing another bike swap this morning-picking up yet another 2010 Triumph Thunderbird. And having put over 5200 miles on them, feel relatively qualified to give my two cents, er opinion. And just to confirm my viewpoint, read some recent road tests on it from the popular cycle magazines. And I was surprised to see we agree on most things-except for personal preferences.

Many magazines only ride the bike for a few hundred miles-riding it like they stole it-I've seen how they have come back-if they ask, don't lend them yours. And those miles are split between many riders, and some may never get it out of the city, basing their opinion on that short ride. In fairness though, this is SOP for all bikes, so they do have a basis for comparison, albeit a limited one.

That is why I miss Road Rider magazine. They would actually ride the bikes-cross country, and tell you all about its pluses and minuses. While telling you about all the great roads to ride and places to eat. But unfortunately, as the market grew, their niche didn't, and after a noble effort, lives on as Motorcycle Consumer News today. Not the same-my opinion. But a magazine that just celebrated its tenth anniversary, of all places, it's from North Carolina-Road Runner, seems to have filled the gap lost by Road Rider. They actually ride, add maps of places they ride, recommend places to eat and stay-but mostly they put miles on the bikes. And can give you a fair appraisal of the machine-somehow the around the block test drive, if you even manage one from the dealer, just doesn't cut it.

And whereas sport bike guys may tour, and cruisers carve the canyon, it is nice to read about someone who loves motorcycles-as opposed to writing an editorial just for his own peer group. I've toured on Daytonas, and also on Thunderbirds. Guess what, both evoke strong emotions-and both can make or break a trip. No fun lane splitting on a Daytona-but is much better on Tiger. The Tiger handles exceptionally-but is no match for a race bike with license plates. Are you beginning to get it? A motorcycle is a personal thing. A relationship. One my wife didn't understand until she started riding her own, then it was "my bike" and she set it up as she wanted it. And by the way, rides 10,000 miles per year on a Bonneville. More than many tourer types I know, maybe she doesn't know it isn't a touring bike.

Life is about relationships-with people as well as motorcycles. How many have you sold wishing you had it back again? Or dreamt about-the Bible calls it lust, only to be disappointed and couldn't wait to sell it for something else? Good relationships take time, so give your relationship with God some. Just like a new bike, there is a get acquainted period, until you have confidence in the bike. Then you find yourself just riding, without thinking about each decision you have to make. Just like with God. But yet, some never get familiar with Him, they must obey some law, ritual, or denominational rule-and give up freedom for religion. God doesn't want religious people, read about Jesus-He didn't care for them, and in fact they hated Him. He told them love was the only commandment, how would you feel if the other 613 laws were rendered useless by Him? And you had always lived like that!

Today try something different-trust God. Put your hope in Him, and not a law or denominational rule. Let Him lead, let Him be the road test-and use His advice by getting to know Him. It is easier to trust someone you know, so spend time with Him. Pray-listen too, it is a dialogue, not a monologue. Meditate-no not in a trance, start bringing Him into the thought process, and admire things as He reveals Himself more to you. Watch a hummingbird feed, and wonder about the God that created it. Then praise Him, it's called thanks-and a thankful heart can only come from a repentant heart. Ditch the put down of laws, and show love-you may find you are starting to act like Him, and not bound by statutes. You can argue any law-we all do when we break them-but how do you argue love?
So stop arguing, and start loving. Stay away from opinions, and seek truth. My steak medium well and yours rare both bring us happiness. But only true joy is found in Jesus Christ. No brag, just fact. No opinions, truth you can trust. No matter what you ride. Spend time with Him today, and conduct your own road test. You will find He outperforms anything else the world has to offer.

And that is not an opinion, brag yes, but fact!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

out of the ashes

Having been at a few accident scenes lately, unfortunately mine, I can tell you that you can treat the body's symptoms, but it is harder to treat the minds. It seems we can deal with blood-the only true sign that you are hurt, ask any little kid, but dealing with anxiety and the depression that we deny afterwards-well it's different. It's like fighting an invisible foe, and our pride doesn't allow any person to fully diagnose it. And although physical wounds heal, it's the emotional ones that leave scars too deep to see.

The first time Theresa rode by herself, she got hit-not her fault. And after some encouragement-no wimpy riders at our house, she was off and fine. When Christopher got hit, it took a few miles to get his confidence back. And I can even say after being hit by the wretched woman making an illegal left turn, I am very wary of intersections. But strangely, getting hit in the rear, I was able to ride again with no problems-go figure. Proof that no one can figure out the mind-at least at a primitive level like mine is.

And as I watch the victims in Haiti, I can see that the needs physically will be met soon, but what about the emotional scars? In two weeks when order has been established, notice I didn't say restored, we will all pat ourselves on the back for a job well done. But what about the victims-who will tend to them once their physical needs are met? What about their souls?
General Mac Arthur, after defeating the Japanese is WWII, when asked what the Japanese people needed, said "send them Bibles and missionaries." They needed to be emotionally and spiritually healed. We didn't, and missed a great opportunity to evangelize. Let's not miss it again. Not to take advantage of a situation, but to make something out a tragedy-to see lives changed eternally-not just for the moment. There are some problems that cannot be corrected with a check-or a check up. They are spiritual, and only God can minister to the situation.

So I ask-no I insist, we continue to be sensitive to God and watch how He makes this situation a victory, and heals the victims. That we continue to pray, ask God what He will have us do. Maybe pray, maybe go, maybe donate. A lot of maybes-but He will demand something of those who call themselves His. Keep your heart open, watch as you receive blessings also.

To put this in perspective, you have a population the size of the San Diego metro area, driven by voodoo, and without hope, or a future. Why not give them the only real thing they need, Jesus-he will add all the other things. And along the way, maybe note the neighbor, or coworker, or person in church who is hurting too. Be open to the spirit, and watch as "as you go, you will be spreading the gospel."

Just an earthquake. Those who follow false teachings, are now quick to say they predicted it. But to those who are called, we know it is a sign of things to come. And we better be ready! For the true mark of a Christian is not predicting, but reacting with an open heart to the tragedy, something no false teacher ever does. Jesus said they will know we are Christians by our love. Don't waste your time telling me how great a lover you are-SHOW ME! Haiti yesterday-overwhelmed by voodoo. Today, in physical despair. Tomorrow-maybe, the richest and fastest growing Christian nation in the world. If He can save me...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

haven't you had enough religion?

While watching Jeopardy last night, I learned that January 17th is a holiday. No, nobody's birthday, it is National Break Your New Year's Resolution Day. A day that by name sounds pessimistic, the fact that it is 17 days into the new year, gives hope-at least for two weeks. For to those of you who make these resolutions that you cannot fulfill, they only bring more stress for that time period, with so many not making it until the 17th. And they seem like altruistic goals-lose weight, stop smoking, watch less Jeopardy, but they all end in an appointment with disappointment. AKA-failure. Like I don't have enough problems already.

And a popular theme this year among the church is to read through the Bible in a year. Spend 30 minutes each day reading, and then check off what you read. Theresa even brought home a book so you can follow it. And although this seems like a Godly thing to do, it is cloaked in a false spirituality-one it is all about you, not God, one that puts you in control-not God, and ends with an appointment with disappointment. And it brings more laws into your life-and a potential quenching of the spirit. For instance-

The first three days you are hot, then the weekend comes. Life interferes with your plans. And the excuses fly, so you try again on Monday-two days behind. Soon this task to know God better takes on the burden of a late homework assignment, and pretty soon it is forgotten. And the memory is only made worse by someone holding out longer than you. They may have gotten to the Mount of Transfiguration, but you're still stuck in the valley of the shadow of death. And ask yourself, what does this have to do with Jesus being in control of my life, like I pray?

Remember this life is about relationships, starting with our one with God. Consider the following, and see my point. You buy a new bike, and call some friends to ride with you. You're excited, and you want to ride. And here are the rules. For the first ten miles we ride no faster than 40mph. Then rest. Then we ride 50mph for an hour, then rest. Then 60 mph, but not for long-and we are still home by noon. Can't wear out that new engine. Are you the only one disappointed when after you announce this find you are riding alone? And get no return calls for next week?

When dating, you tell your new date, I need to be in by 9pm. But our next date we can stay out until 10. Still looking for that elusive second date?

Imagine life with your spouse. Tonight you can talk 20 minutes, then it is my turn. Then you can have ten, then I'll finish up with ten. Then it's back to watching Jeopardy-alone! Won't that be fun? NO-for you see relationships take time to develop, and if they are to be intimate, take one on one personal contact. So why do we bring a set of rules to our relationship with God-when this foolish set of rules doesn't work in any other relationship?

When you first met your spouse to be, you thought of her constantly. Would call many times a day, and look forward to spending time together. Without time frames-spontaneity showed love. Same with your new bike-I bought my R90S in the morning and took it back that afternoon for the 600 mile service. For a relationship to work, it must be intimate-time must be invested, and it can only be done one on one. You have to spend time with that person. Just like with God.

So it is OK to think of Him during the day, and not wait until your 30 minute appointment is here. And hey, what if 30 minutes isn't enough, can I get extra? Will it cut into tomorrow's time? Sad, but true, beneath the veneer of spirituality, lies legalism, just ready to ruin the spirit. But it doesn't have to be that way.

We say we trust God with our lives. We tell Him we have given them over to Him, and we call Him Lord. Then let's let Him be Lord, and let Him lead. No co-pilot, but full charge. He knows what's best, knows and orders our footsteps, and promises joy to those who are obedient-rather than sacrificial of their time, or money. He wants a personal relationship with you, and good times or bad, knows what you can handle, so schedules accordingly. No-everyday isn't 85 degrees with low humidity and a tailwind, but He is with you in the storm-or the valley of the shadow of death. And then is with you on the mount, and all steps in between. And as you go-remember those words He gave to His disciples-as you go preach the word by showing your relationship with God. And instead of a religion, have a relation. A friend who knows your name, and you can get to know His. No laws, just His spirit leading. And enjoy the true freedom you can only find in Jesus Christ.

For joy doesn't come from learning about God, memorizing scripture, or opening your wallet to give your 10%. It comes from a personal relationship with God via His son, Jesus Christ. No booklets, no lists, no appointments with disappointment. Time with a friend, who just happens to be the one who created the universe. Spend time with Him today-what will your answer be when He asks why do you call me Lord, but don't do the things I say? But, God-sorry He seeks a relationship, not an adherence to laws. He wants you!

Have I made you my enemy by telling you the truth? Seek Jesus, and find the way, the truth, and the life. At the cross. No more appointments of disappointment-He even let's you make the choice. So get to know Him-you can only trust someone you know-not know about! Know the one who never left you during your appoints with disappointment-truly there is joy in the morning with Jesus! And all the other times of the day, too!

Reading it more and enjoying it less? Walk in the spirit-and all other things will be added.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

and you thought it was just a car

Theresa and I went to what might be the perfect old car show last Saturday. In Vista at the Peppertree Drive In, over 585 cars showed up and jammed the streets and surrounding parking lots. Restricted to nothing newer than a 1972, my year of high school graduation, this made it perfect for my trip down memory lane, as anything newer has much different memories than anything older. You tend to have hallmarks in your life, and one is getting your license-June of 1971 for me. And being able to drive made me look at cars in a different light-unfortunately.

All my dreams of SS396 Chevelles, and Boss Mustangs faded to black as the stone cold reality of a 1966 Rambler Classic sedan was my first set of wheels. And things like filling the tank took on a new meaning. We never thought gas would ever go over 30 cents/gallon, and when we got to 1/4 tank, drove in and told the attendant two dollars worth. Or in the case of many of our first cars, fill the oil, and check the gas. But this car show was different than many I attend, and that made the memories flow. Judging based on the car, and the emotions it raised, not the restoration, or how much money you spent to make it perfect. Talking with owners, and listening to their stories, and reminding Theresa in 15 years we can take her Mustang, as it will be 25 years old then. That is if we ever stop riding. But it is the unrestored, but daily driven, or often driven cars I am attracted to. The ones with wear on the seats, and thin paint from years of waxing. The ones that tell a story of their lives, and places they've been and who they were with. These are the ones that I stop and look at.

I found myself stopping and looking at the AMX line-almost a dozen of them-and a 1971 with a 360, much like my friend Barry Adams' 1972 with a 401. I spent time looking at the 1950 Buick Super, the same color as my Special sedan-the one Debbie Gallagher wanted to go to the drive in in, so we could neck. Just so she could see what it was like for her parents in the 50's. Ah, some romances never die. Stopping to laugh at the Pinto, with a sign that read FLAMMABLE in front of it, reminded me of the car that replaced the Rambler, a 1971 Pinto. And my first job as an assistant service manager and the recall for the fuel tank repair that kept them from exploding.

Even stopping and explaining how the 55-56-57 Chevies were different, yet so similar to Theresa, who commented she knew because she had been going to car shows with me for 30 years. My favorite, the 56, but I was always enamored by the dash on the 55's, the ones with the Chevy bowtie emblems cut out of the metal. I was too young to get one new, and too broke to get one when I was older. Which only makes some dreams seem farther away as you get closer.

But I found myself in thought as I considered where I was when these cars were new, and where I am now. And how far both cars and I have come. For over 70% of my life I have been a Christian, and I thought of how that influenced my decisions. And how those decisions influenced my life. From my first car when moving to Albuquerque, a Rabbit that was totaled, and replaced with a 1973 El Camino, and then replaced by a 1972 MG Midget, I could follow my story of my walk in Christ. When I traded my El Camino for the MG, and later a friend of Eric Villanueva bought it, it had a rattle. So I put a Christian magazine between the spare and jack to stop the rattle. Which Eric thought was cool, because his friend became a Christian. I never told him it was not a witness tool, the noise was making me crazy-but God had a better idea. And Eric used to tell anyone who would listen the story.

Watching TV one night with Theresa, and Crime stoppers re-enacted a crime-on the trunk of our 1967 Sedan De Ville! She used to run over curbs while driving it-her last car being a VW Bug. And it always got 6 miles per gallon, no matter how you drove it-so we drove it fast, a Trans Am killer, when they gave up all their horsepower in lieu of graphics in the late 70's. I remember our next MG, I bought a 1980 B model and surprised Theresa when I picked her up at the hospital after a miscarriage. And how Christopher used to sit in his car seat with the top down when he was three years old. How cool was that? All memories courtesy of a car show.

And I thought of two friends who went home to the Lord too soon for me-Brett and his little Honda, which his pastor and friends set up on a curb at his wedding, so they couldn't get to the motel, and Terry Garcia and his 1978 Saab. Both guys who liked road trips, and loved Jesus. Brothers who were there for me when I needed them. And then my memories took me back to the Tuesday night Bible studies and how my life was centered around Jesus. And then realized how blessed I have been for the past 35 years. Remembering all the times with brothers and sisters in the Lord-just from looking at some old cars.

So next time I get blurry eyed while looking inside an old car, use caution-and courtesy, for I am going back and remembering special times. Times spent with Jesus, and the friends I shared them with. Just one of the things I remember during communion when He says do this in remembrance of me.

And don't let the religious people take anything away from you for doing that-for any time spent with Jesus is the best time. For I remember Him even without taking communion, as He is always part of my life, riding or driving. Just remember-don't spill anything on the seats, and make sure the oil and gas are full. And take off into the sunset with new memories to come-and enjoy the ones in the past. A scrapbook from Jesus- a journey not found in the Twilight Zone.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogpsot.com