Tuesday, February 1, 2011

postcards over the edge




My friend Dave's e-mail reminded us that it is only seven weeks until spring in Pennsylvania. And while they suffer with record snow and single digit temperatures, I am spending the days riding, and nights planning next summer's ride. And with the brochures coming in daily that I ordered during last month's rain, I am ready now. But a continuing phenomena bothers me. And that is the places I have been, when they are displayed in the brochures, seem much different than the places I remember. Was I really there, or am i in a dream? For instance, riding through Kayenta on the Navajo Reservation, the world's largest ghetto, is described as a breathtaking road, with the Burger King being the restaurant of choice due to its historic artifacts. And I don't think they mean their burgers. Due to Photoshop, and the ability to stretch the truth-propaganda, it almost sounds attractive, until you get there, and wish you hadn't.
Same goes for Atlantic City and views of the Boardwalk. Sadly two blocks away it is drugs and prostitution, and crime. Pictures of serene beaches in So Cal fail to show the sewage that Tijuana dumps into the ocean only miles away. Custer sounded good until you get there, and find his last stand more appealing. And with the advent of Scenic Routes, you are open to your own interpretation. And it seems the state boards of tourism propaganda machine is working overtime, as until you get there, you are blindly operating on blind faith. Fortunately web sites like Tripadvisor.com let some real life experiences influence, but usually they are only reported by the best and the vengeful. So bring lots of money, riding gear, and a map of back roads and let's ride.
My sadness even extends to the Flight 93 Memorial in Shanksville. Once a very serene and private memorial, if you have been there you feel as though you are on holy ground, today is turning into a mega million dollar project, that doesn't reflect the truth or the heroes who died on the plane that morning. See it now, while dodging D-8 Cats before it is really too late. But life goes on, and there are still many places that tell the truth, and don't need to be exploited for visitors to come.
The book of Jude, written by Jesus's half brother, appropriately named Jude, warns of such wolves who lie to get their point across. Taking the truth of Jesus, and rewriting it to meet their own warped criteria, they lead people astray, if even by not much. If you miss the last ferry by one minute, you still missed it, and the liars that seek to keep people from the truth are out there. "It sounds good, or Jesus wouldn't want you to be unhappy, He wants you all to be rich," type lies come out of them. And while mainstream denominations roles are deteriorating, they look for trendy and inventive ways to get people in-when the answer is in the Bible they misquote. God builds the church, and if He doesn't they labor in vain. But they try, like the Chamber of Commerce using a Photoshop type of religion, making it Jesus appear as something He isn't. Beware!
A few years ago the Dragon was the ride to make back east. Over 300 curves in 11 miles, it was sportbike Nirvana. But today, photographers even line the route, willing to sell pictures of you when you crashed, or making the overcrowded road more dangerous than it is. I will not tell you where the Snake is for I do not wish to be a part of it turning into the sideshow the Dragon has become. There are still so many roads, and so little time. Don't let your relationship with Jesus become a statistic, or a destination with a t-shirt to show for it. Know Him personally, and He will make the road you are on the most interesting one, and lined with truth.
And somehow He can even make the winter months of not riding attractive. I told you He could do miracles-I hope my friend Dave can wait the seven weeks!
Not sure about Jesus? Ask someone who knows Him. Get some first hand experience. There is even a book written about Him-a best seller! But no matter what-make the trip with Him! For even the toughest road with Him will get you there-without Him, well you just might end up missing the ferry at Lake Powell and dining al fresco at Burger King in Kayenta. Have it your way-I hope it is His way!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Monday, January 31, 2011

rip my friend, the babe magnet has passed away



It's Monday morning, and after being kept up for hours by the 20% chance of rain, the ground is still wet. Which still amazes me, despite the computer telling us only 20%, we still have to look out and see it was 100%. Have we come so far we can't just look out the window to see if it's raining, or not?
And I wonder where were the psychics, prognosticators, politicians, and those whose job it is to cover foreign countries when Tunisia, then Egypt, and now Jordan and others are protesting and their leaders falling. Egypt caught them all by surprise, no one saw that one coming, and from the look on Mrs. Clinton's face, this is more serious than we were initially led to believe. Just another reminder that only God knows what is going on, and that He has things under control. And no one knows the day.
This was also the weekend that my friend Lee went to be with the Lord. We knew it would be coming, but you never know when. He had been sick for quite awhile with liver cancer, believed to be tied in from exposure to Agent Orange, from his tour in Viet Nam, during his 20 years with the Marines. When diagnosed over a year ago, and told it may would be fatal, Lee and I would talk. He was a gentle, kind man, and I asked him, after being given six months to live, if he was afraid to die? He wasn't afraid to die, he knew Jesus, but the other love of his life was his concern. His answer, "who was going to take care of Sue." His wife, aka Ballerini to me, was his best friend, and true to Lee, his main concern before himself. When I asked him, "who was taking care of her now?" a peace came over him, and his smile let me know that He knew Jesus was, and is taking care of her. Even today. And all the other Ballerini's too. We had a joke, as Ballerini would always hug me good bye, then tell me she wanted to adopt me. And I would turn to Lee, and ask "can I call you DAD?" "NO!" was the answer, and we would all smile.
But Lee had a style all his own, he was a babe magnet. First he hooked Ballerini, and then her three daughters she brought with her when they married. Which Lee always loved as his own. Vicki, whom I've yet to meet, but loved Lee very much, Joni, who has so much of her mother in her, and Margaret, who lovingly caressed Lee's feet the morning of his death. She is ten pounds of sugar in a five pound bag. They all were loved, and loved Lee. And to the end, he was still the babe magnet.
We had stopped on our way to a car show in Orange county Saturday morning. And as Margaret massaged his feet, and Ballerini held him, Theresa and I prayed. His breathing was irregular, and once again I reminded him that Jesus was going to take care of all the Ballerini's, including his precious Sue. Hearing is the last thing to go, and the words comforted him. When we left, he was at peace. And within another 25 minutes, present with the Lord.
I miss my friend, Lee. We talked often of his recent motorcycle trip cross country, and his favorite riding place, the Black Hills. With all the Ballerini's always fussing over him, I was the male voice, when I could get my turn. For this babe magnet, was constantly cared for by all the girls in the family. Like I said, I miss my friend, and it was Joni's words that give me comfort. "Lee loved you very much," she said. And I loved him, too.
It has been said that the true measure of success is how your kids describe you to their friends. If so, Lee was a very successful man. Father, husband, friend, Marine, motorcyclist, and babe magnet. And the perfect example of a husband God tells us to be. As head of the house, he took his responsibility serious, and didn't abuse it. As the head of the house, he loved Sue as Jesus loves His church. And was willing to die for her. Knowing what lied ahead, and convinced that Sue was taken care of.
Ballerini is a richer woman today, as she also trusts in the Lord. My prayer is that all you husbands out there love your wives as much as Ballerini was loved by Lee. It is probably safe to say she never saw Lee as a babe magnet, but to the end, all the Ballerini women were attracted to him. He was hers, and she was his. And that is the way it should be-the two becoming one, in Christ. Till death do them part.
And I never got to call him dad. But something better-friend. Love you Ballerini!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogpsot.com







Friday, January 28, 2011

of thee we sang



9-11. Without even mentioning anything else, we know exactly what it means. The day that Muslim terrorists, carried out a brilliant, yet cowardly plan against the US of A. Two planes fly into the Twin Towers, another into the Pentagon, and if not for the heroes of flight 93, who knows where our country would be today. It seems wars are now carried out under different terms, although sadly some still die in combat on the battlefield. But, when a group of men, representing their countries formed the United Nations after WWII, all bets were off, and unknowingly to us, the terms of war were changed. And the next step in Satan's war against Israel had begun. We know about the Cold War, but how many know the other wars going on, that are leading to the planned destruction of Israel, and its allies? When the US of A flag, is topped only by the UN flag, the only place in our own country that our flag is not prominent, our sovereignty was forfeited, and the new world order won a major victory. Bet you didn't know that about our flag! You didn't know we are a UN member first, then a US citizen!
October 17, 1973. Does anyone remember the date? Or the day and its significance? To those who choose to forget history, it is the day that OPEC doubled the cost of petroleum to nations who were allies of Israel. And overnight, without going to war, or firing a shot, the US way of life was altered forever. From the cars we drove, to all the things manufactured with oil, we lost our sovereignty again, as now we were a debtor nation for oil. Our entire country's way of life altered forever. 55mph speed limits. Odd/even gas days, or sometimes no gas at all. OPEC, and the Arab nations, mostly Muslim, had declared war on Israel, and Israel's allies still pay the price. Suddenly our cars were obsolete, and foreign cars, touted by US journalists, and the government, began to sell it great numbers. Soon we were exporting our jobs all over the world, so others could build our cars, while decreasing the income of those who could afford them. A subtle war, and as long as gas was available, we would gripe, but live on. And as we continued to lose our sovereignty, the greatest nation in history, whom God had shed His grace, is the only nation standing in the way of a one world government . We are Israel's last ally, and on the day, which is coming when we turn our backs on her, we are doomed. Fact is, we already are, but due to our size and credit rating, and the grace of God, we still exist. Did you know 40 cents of each dollar spent is borrowed from China? Did you realize they built more Buicks last year than we did? GM-Government Motors! Can't happen to us? It has and is. We are as a nation no longer an important exportin' man. And who we buy from dictates the prices we pay. Along with Congress of course. Did I mention we are a debtor nation?
And while others partake in the spirit of anti-Christ, many unknowingly, that which takes the place of Christ, we need to center on Jesus, our only hope. Those who wonder who the Anti-Christ will be? You may get to find out, for who you are looking for, you will find. Those who try to figure out the date of His return, which God promises to no man? And those who focus on festivals, and numerology, genealogies, and cults-you have all come under the spirit of anti-Christ. Pastors, tell your people. It's all about Jesus. Not OPEC, not our enemies, or church teachings. Policies and politicians offer no hope. It is all about Jesus. And without Him you are lost. A lost and dying world holds no hope-remember that. So choose your weapons wisely. Stand with God, and even though times are and will be tough, He will protect and guide you through. The rest, well you continue trying to understand, which you never will, while others of us, live in the comfort of a peace that surpasses understanding.
Don't let your headstone read "We never did it this way before." Trust God, not politicians or policies. Resist the devil, and draw close to God. Recognize Appolyon, the destroyer, aka Satan, and avoid his tactics. The spirit of anti-Christ is alive and well. Sadly in many churches, who may not even know it. Avoid politics, embrace Jesus. Kings and their kingdoms shall all pass away, but Jesus is for now and forever.
Perhaps what Joshua said, says it best. And it is still good advice. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD! We are that much closer to what all Christians hope for, the rapture. Don't get caught up in anything but that!
And for those who seek the identity of the Anti-Christ, hope you aren't disappointed. You may be spending a long time with him. You don't have to miss Jesus by much, just miss Him. Take heed, today may be the day!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot


Thursday, January 27, 2011

The All Day Song





Sorry I sold it, wish I hadn't, and wish I had it back. Ever say that about any car or motorcycle you sold? Well, if you answer yes, you are not alone. And whether for reasons of style, finance, or it just don't run right, there are some I wish I had back, and some I have now that once I sell, will regret. Here are some in no particular order, your own list will differ, but these may bring back similar memories.
My first bike, 1972 CB350. I rode it for 6000 miles the five months I owned it. And every time I see one, the last time was three years ago, I remember how new I was, the bike fast and forgiving, and how when I sold it to buy a 1972 R60/5, I thought I was styling. And although the BMW took me more places, you can only have a first bike once. If you have one, can I borrow for the afternoon, I have some memories I need to set straight.
I had one of the first year Suzuki GS750's. And it never ran right. Got horrible gas mileage, and not quite the power it should. Traded it again, this time on a R100S, and the tech who bought it, sorted out the carb problem. And I heard that after 10 years, it still ran great, like it should have for me! For all I know, Al still has it.
I bought a used Sprint ST, and it was the one that took me coast to coast in under 70 hours. It ran great, was far superior to the new bike that replaced it, but traded it with my Sprint RS for my Tiger. I miss that ST, and riding the new Sprint GT, brought back precious memories. And even though the Tiger that replaced it has gone more miles, more places, and is more comfortable, a bike I can't see ever trading, when I see one I wish I had it back. Preferably red. If you dream, dream big.
One that I was glad to see go was my 650 Nighthawk. Rode it back east, and had horrible mileage. Low 30's, when all the magazines got close to 50. I even rode it once for 75 miles at 40 miles an hour, belly on the tank, because of no gas stations. Coasted into a Horn station in Clayton. Cars may pass you, but when old pickups pass, and wave, and ask if they can help-it's embarrassing! And I was able to trade up to my FJ1100, seems the dealer couldn't sell it, so he gave me what I paid for the Honda on trade. A happy ending to a sad story.
And the list goes on. And I find the bikes that just ran great, and never gave me problems, I don't remember as well. It seems the highs or lows of ownership are the ones that stand out. The ones you wish you could have back, or had never bought in the first place. Similar to our testimonies. We remember the times where God bailed us out of trouble, and promise to serve Him forever, or the times of great blessing, where we pledge the same thing to Him. But we forget the day to day living-life we call it, where we just lived. We worked, played on weekends, and life went on with no excitement. Then-POW! Trouble, and we are back to seeking God, and asking Him to forgive us for not honoring our desire to follow Him. And then repeat this over and over again, throughout our lives. Sadly some think this is Christianity, but it is not. It takes a relationship with Jesus to get us through everyday. We need Him. I like John Fisher's song, appropriately called "The All Day Song."
Love Him in the morning when you see the sun arisin',
love Him in the evening 'cause He helped you through the day.
and in the in between times when you feel the pressure coming,
remember that He loves you and He promises to stay... with you!
Motorcycles will come and go in your life. Times change. But Jesus never does. If you accepted Him years ago, He is still the same, and hopefully you have grown. Don't trade Him for any trend, thought, code, denominational dogma, or anything else. Stick with Him, and watch as the miles get better as you ride more with Him. As you change to be more like Him, and you know in your heart-He will stay with you. No new revelations, or new gospels. He is the truth, and not a road test.
So take some time, soon, maybe even today, and go for a ride. Let Him take you through the curves, and remember all He has done in your life. Make it an all day ride, loving Him in the morning, and remembering Him in the evening. But remember that most of our lives are spent in the "in between times," and enjoy that part of the day the most. You may find that is where the best memories are. When it was just you and Jesus. Nothing special, just you and Him. And you just may find, that's what made it special after all.
"Remember He ain't in a hurry, He always has time for you"...can you make some time for Him?
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Wednesday, January 26, 2011

classic Christians still hold their values



When we think of a cruiser style motorcycle, we inevitably think of Harley Davidson. And for the most part I do too, as they own the cruiser style market, and have for many years. And of course you would think that they originated it, which they did. But do you know which major manufacturer, known for its sport bikes helped create the class, and made the style what it is today? Tick...tick...tick... Here's a hint, it starts with a K, and they also created a model that sport bikes are referred to as...as in Ninja style bikes. If you guessed Kawasaki, you guessed right, go riding. And in early 1977, when they marketed the KZ900 LTD, based on the legendary Z-1, the market took off, and has never looked back. So once again, it was the Japanese bikes, that had rescued the market with their little, dependable bikes, changing history again in the seventies. The first power cruiser, the LTD had a semi-custom look about it, but still retained all the Z-1 muscle, plus fuel injection! Style and performance, who could wish for anything more!
And in other news, Harley also sought government relief, they were accusing the Japanese of dumping bikes in the US of A, they were, and would finally gain help when anything made offshore over 700cc would have a 25% tax added to it. And it was also the year Suzuki discontinued selling two strokes in the States. Its first four stroke, the GS750, starting a legendary line, that turned into the GSX-R's of today. And sad for all, the last year of no motorcycle emissions. In 1978, the carbs were sealed, and only outlaws would alter them to make the bikes run better. And for those who could afford $0.65 cent a gallon gas, it was a great time to be alive, and ride.
And even though gas was high, at least it was available, and interest rates higher, remember 25% interest rates, and only 24 months to pay, bike sales were hot. But it leaves an interesting question today, some 34 years later. With so many, historic bikes sold during that year, and era, where are they all today? I bought a 1978 GS1000E last year, in showroom condition. When is the last time you saw one of those? And how many even know what it is? Note-this is the bike Wes Cooley won on, Superbike and others! But whenever I look to find others, nationwide there aren't any. Were they all hot rodded and chopped up, or just used up? And it isn't just my model, where have they all gone?
Sadly, the era of throw away bikes was upon us. Last years bike was old, compared to the new ones, and they got used up, or sold to new racers, who cut them up. The aftermarket grew also, and everyone had a Yoshimura, or Kerker pipe. And still, some were left to just rot away in barns, their owners too afraid of them, for all that power meant all that performance. And it scared them. Ask yourself, when is the last time you saw an LTD, a CB750F, a GS1000, or a three cylinder Yamaha? Good bikes, but most have disappeared from history, only to be found in books of the period, or old bike meets. At highly inflated prices. Sad.
The late seventies was also the end of the so-called Jesus Revolution, and fortunately I was saved during it. And I had many saved friends then, and every once in a while, hear from one. And many times they too are like the old bikes, pictures from another time. Not walking with God as they once did, life taking over and interfering with their walk with Christ. Many good memories of a time they thought would never end, but for some decades since they were even to church-a place it seemed we all lived for and in back then. They are referred to as the good old days, but somehow I made it through. And to me, these are the good old days. They are just as exciting as those first days of knowing Jesus, of Bible studies, of praying for others, and for greeting each other with a hug. Don't see many "One Way" expressions any more. Sad again. And bikes are even more exciting than we could have ever expected. Faster, lighter, handle better, and still one of the best ways to have fun with your clothes on. And I am told, bang for the buck, cheaper than they were when compared in 1977 dollars. And to those of us still excited by Jesus, and still excited by the passions He has given us, today is the best day we have ever had. For a simple promise found in scripture keeps me going. Actually a lot of them do, but Ephesians 3:20, God's promise to give us far beyond all we could ask for, and anything we could imagine.
Do you still pray limiting God? Don't. Give it all to God, ask to have your relationship with Him boundless, and without limits! And watch, when you let Him guide you, you will go farther, faster, and be more blessed than you ever imagined. Don't lean on your own understanding, or limit your blessings. Trust God, and watch. And enjoy life, maybe as never before.
When I ride the 1978 Suzuki today, it is fun, and I laugh at how far we have come. New bikes are faster, handle better, and have much better brakes. Better than we could have ever imagined. Is your life better than you ask for? Ask God, who has made the offer. And let Him, exceed your wildest dreams. He is more than a nostalgia trip. He is alive and well. Sometimes, the old things are still the best.
Hey, when you start with perfection, where else would you go?
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

with just a little help from my friends



For many, they read born, died, survivors, and maybe a short work history. Short, impersonal, and just the facts, mam. They are an obituary, and for many, the last thing that we are remembered by. But not all have the endearing qualities of an entry in some almanac, some are personal, and you feel like you knew the person, even though you may have never met. When Jerry Titus, race car driver and journalist died, Bob Kovacik wrote a very touching eulogy to him. Almost 40 years later, I can still remember it, and one point still stands out in my mind. He wrote, "I know many people, but have very few friends."
And over the years it has become clearer to me how true that statement is. I have many accquatainces, but few friends. And as I get older, my friendship list grows shorter, and more valuable. That doesn't take away from the acquaintances I have, it only adds to the friendship I have with my friends. Years ago God told me that as I get closer to Him, that my peer group would get smaller. And it has, as when you grow in the Lord, there are many things you can't share with others-they just wouldn't get it. Not that you are smarter, or they are not as smart, we are all at different levels of maturity, and some just won't get it, at least for now. Look back ten years at your riding, and look at it now. You have ridden more, gone more places, and seen more things. You have grown more intimate with your riding, and it shows. Long trips are more interesting, while short ones hold no interest. Bikes that once were only dreamed of have come and gone, and you find the ad hype was better than the times you rode them. And to your friends, the ride was just as important as the destination. Even if they weren't along. Friends will defend you publicly, but discipline you in private. They are closer than words can define them, even when farther than a day's ride to see them. Details don't matter as much to them as does the fact of the relationship. And that is why I have few friends, but I am thankful for all the acquaintances I have, too.
The best example of friendship is written about three friends, one who is paralyzed, and have been friends for a long time. When they hear of this man Jesus who heals, they carry their friend on a cot to see Him. But sadly, the house is overrun with others. Where others would turn away, they decided not to let anything stand between them and Jesus, and the healing of their friend. Without regard for their own outcome, they cut a hole in the roof, and lower their friend to Jesus. With no regard for the consequences, their love for their friend is more important than any penalties they may incur. Sadly, little is said about these two men when the story is told, but to me they show the love of Christ personified. Jesus told us to keep His commandments to be his friends. Not the laws, or the 10 Commandments, His two simple laws-love God with all you have, and love your neighbor as you love yourself. And these men show that love. Two men walked in, one just dropped in, and three walked out. Friends.
You see they couldn't do everything, but they could do something. And what they were available to do, they did. They did what they could. And I would like to believe that the same Jesus who healed the lame, also restored the hole in the roof. Or better yet, left it as a testimony for others. Don't let anything stand between you and God!
I will continue to stand by my statement of having very few friends. And leave you with this thought. As great as it is to have friends, it is better to be one. As with all things, Jesus reminds us it better to give than receive.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogpsot.com

Monday, January 24, 2011

It's a Wonderful Life, or Thank Heaven for Little Girls



Contrary to popular belief, Jesus was not a religious man. Bet you didn't know that. In fact, He wanted very little to do with the religious types, as they were the ones who by their legalism, were always trying to draw attention to themselves. The Pharisees, would actually have a bellringer precede them to the temple, then have the crowd watch as they gave their bag of gold. All to be seen. And since the word religion means bound up, He is against being bound up in a bunch of laws still today. But sadly, legalism and pride, laced with ignorance are in too many churches today.
They teach church tradition, rather than the truth. They gloat as they poke fun at Job's wife, never concerning themselves with the fact she lost everything, too, and watch as this poor woman grieves the loss of her children, and now possibly her husband. They taunt Thomas, calling him Doubting, when the scripture never alludes to that. And the list goes on, along with their lack of grace. But still God has everything under control, as we shall see, down to the last detail, and at the right time.
Scripture tells us that Peter denied Jesus three times , while standing warming himself by the fire in the garden at Gethsemane. A little girl accused him of being a Galilean, by his accent, he said no. Of being with Jesus, he became flustered, and of knowing Jesus-he claimed he didn't know the man, which may have been true, his biggest denial before leaving in tears. And because of this, they took Jesus away by himself, Pilate tried him, and then He was hung on the cross. Between two thieves, one of which He promised to see in Paradise that night, because the thief believed. And finally, He appeared to Peter after His resurrection, and empowered him by the spirit, and the same Peter then on the day of Pentecost, under the Spirit, led 3000 to salvation. Just like it is recorded in Scripture.
But what if Peter had been a bold believer that night in public, like he was when in Jesus' company. Suppose he continued to say "I'll follow you anywhere," and was arrested with Jesus, based on the accurate accusations of a little girl? What if he was sentenced to die with Jesus, and there were only three crosses? Suppose the saved thief was given a stay until Monday, and would enjoy a temporary stay, and not have met Jesus, and therefore missed eternal life? And what if because Peter was crucified with Christ, that the church would embrace him as its savior also, His whole gospel would be laced with untruths? And two saviors! At least in their eyes.
Who would have run with John to the tomb, and seen the grave clothes piled nicely, the body covering and also the head cloth-dispelling the Shroud of Turin myth, which they claim shows Jesus' face-it couldn't, because of a separate head covering. Who would have been there on the Day of Pentecost, if not Peter? And how many accurate prophesies of Jesus would not be true, just because of one man's statement?
Truly God is in control, and all things work to good for Him. You see while some berate Mrs. Job, if you don't read Job's response you miss a touching response to his wife-rather than telling her she is stupid, he consoles her by telling her she is acting out of character-not a rebuke, but a comfort. Thomas was out on the streets while the others were hiding upstairs, and only wanted the same testimony that they had-they saw Him! And when He appeared to Him, he didn't have to touch the wounds-He exclaimed "my God and my King!" Remember that next time you ask God to show or prove himself.
There is a good chance, somehow, sometime you will deny Jesus today. He still loves you, and contrary to some beliefs, He doesn't erase your name from the Book of Life. So keep going, and enjoy the life He has given you. Some little girl may question you, like Peter based on your relationship with Jesus. That's good sign, as she has seen something of Jesus in you. And it's OK to respond like Peter might today, looking back on it all. "Thank heaven for little girls, for without her, it all would have been different." It's a wonderful life in Christ, you would never wish to see your life without Him.
Jesus and religion? You can keep your laws, I'll keep my morals, in Christ, of course.
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com