hey man, unless you're passing, get out of the fast lane

Fakes, shams, charlatans, wanna-bes, and pretenders. We all know them, those who pretend to be something that they aren't, trying to achieve a status so as to be accepted. In the biking community we call them posers. And to those of us who really are, they are easily spotted. Which is where the saying $20,000 and 20 miles don't make you a biker comes from. It shows. You just can't see it because you don't know what to look for. And the world of the biking community is filled with them. Where have all the custom, chopper buyers gone? I've never been a chopper fan, just don't get the look, although I do like bobbers. And I never found pleasure in riding something that was uncomfortable, took four lanes to turn around in, and was vastly overpriced. And it seems all these $50,000 plus social expressions are now for sale-cheap. Get one while you can, before they're gone-and a new group of posers show up.

I find the same thing in sport bike riders, go up any popular hangout on Sunday morning, and you can tell the ones who ride, vs. those who are pretty boys. One look at the sides of the tread on their tires tells you if they ride fast or not. If the sides are worn more than the middle, they are the real thing. New leathers don't make you Kenny Roberts. Or a new Yamaha either. It seems everyone who rides is looking for an individuality by belonging to a certain group. To me, the true outlaws, outside of the 1%'ers, are the ones who ride because they love too. An intensity that shows past their worn leathers and standard ride. Who have done things to their bikes to make them individual, the custom word would never be used here. Guys and girls who ride because they have the spirit of the open road in them, and can't describe the freedom in riding, because they don't understand it. It goes much deeper than words, but take one ride with them and you get it. For some things are only lessened when trying to use words. The ones who know don't try to explain-it's that personal. It is called passion.

Being out and about in the biker community I spend time with people who ride. Talking with two guys on custom bikes-they were young guys who had put together their bikes from parts from others-function before form, but knew the canyons in Malibu, and their tires proved it, they rode no matter what their ride looked like. And it takes all types, some who are in the way, and some who you wish would get out of your way. We know who you are. If you don't know, ask us-we'll set you straight. And we all ride at different levels, with different people, at different speeds, on different roads. But we all ride, the difference is in our hearts.

Not much different than people who go to church, and even call themselves Christians. I was told recently that I was intense about Jesus. At first I wasn't sure what that meant, but Theresa explained to me it was a compliment. For what was seen as intense, is really a passion. A passion for Jesus Christ. A passion that as I get closer to Him, cannot help but show in all aspects of my life. A passion that cannot help but come out of me, because it is me! So I ask you, if you call yourself a Christian, are you ever accused of it? Is it your words or your actions that might get you accused? Is it a vest, a membership in a club, knowing a pastor, attending a church, or knowing someone who does all the above? Guilty by association, but never present. Do you quote Oprah more than Paul? Are you known in the Christian community by your attendance or by your fruit? Stop and self examine yourself, an exhortation from the Apostle Paul. If your list consists of a Bible cover, membership card, bumper sticker and a choir robe-go to the back of the line. Reread what it takes from the pretty Bible inside of the plastic cover. For many have gone out from the church, who have the appearance of Christians, but are really posers. They speak the words, know the right songs on K-LOVE, and even carry a Bible. I even had a so-called brother pointed out to me who had put a Daily Bread cover on a cheap novel, trying to impress me. Are you in the word, or is the word in you? Poser!

So to all who truly believe, and live the life for Jesus, I will keep you in prayer. Beware of the wolves in sheep clothing, for they are not of Jesus. And He knows, and a sad ending awaits them if they don't repent. Don't buy into their words, beliefs, or lifestyle. Stay true to God, and trust only Him. No new revelations-or dates of Jesus return. Or those who study it. NEVER exchange what you know for something you don't know. Stay in the spirit! And a note to all who are posers-we can tell! And if we can, do you think you are fooling God? And if you think you can fool God, how stupid are you to follow a God who can be deceived?

Passion-more than an emotion, it is a person called Jesus. From the heart, that shows in your life. So to those who wish to impress others with their knowledge, and lifestyle, who need a shirt, vest, or sticker on their truck to tell us all about Jesus, I offer this request from all of us who are worn out with your posing. Don't brag to us about what a great Christian you are, SHOW US!

Preach the word daily, and when needed use words. The emperor in this community doesn't need new clothes, these old leathers fit just fine. Custom made just for you, by Jesus. Who never goes out of style either. Pretty bike, looks new, must have cost a lot, now you were saying....

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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the poverty of a rich man

While waiting for the doctor I read an article that told how Phillip Rivers, sometimes winning quarterback for the Chargers makes $15.3 million per year. Fifth highest paid player in the NFL. And at first I will admit I was a bit jealous. The $105 doctor visit bill staring me in the face seemed insurmountable when compared to my income, and thought how nice it would be to have insurance. But after my brief pity party-amazing how you don't always have to go to the party, it will come to you, I thought of all the things he would be missing because of his high income. And suddenly I felt like the richer man, I only wish I could spend the richness I felt at the grocery store!

I remember a rich businessman telling me once how you either had the time or the money-but rarely both. He explained how we would work 50 weeks a year, just to take a two week vacation, which most times would be spent with relatives. Which could make the drudgery of the job seem like a real vacation after a couple of days. How so many make the money, but never have time to spend it. Or have the time, but no resources to enjoy it. And like it says in Ecclesiastes, "the rich man never has enough money and stays up nights worrying about it." How many have that promise of God in their prayer box?

Rich has been described as anyone who makes more than me. And to many I used to be rich. I had a six figure income, a prestigious title, but little time to enjoy it. Ten to five comes early in the morning, and having dinner after six every night leaves little time to yourself when you are in bed by nine! I spent more time at work than I did with my family. And I even realized the extra 3 hours I got on Saturday and Sunday equated an extra nights sleep. But no rest. And yes the money was great, I felt cool cashing my paycheck, but something was missing. An intangible, that appeared more tangible than not.

I used to admire guys who always had money on them when a deal came along. and I now did, and after taking advantage of many deals, had more than I could have desired. But as you acquire more, the dreams get more expensive, and I soon learned value-for it is not what you make, but how you spend it. And I learned that trusting God had more value than the $125,000 credit line I had to go shopping with. Soon my desire for things waned, just before they started owning me. For the things I couldn't buy-time and peace, were so valuable they were free. And given as gifts. Only found in a relationship with God. And how God's economy is far different-read better, than anything the world has to offer.

When a church I used to attend brought in a "Perspectives" series, at about $250 a pop, and discontinued Bible studies, I questioned it. After being told how great it was, I asked if it was better than the gospel. "No," they admitted, "but you get college credits or a certificate at the end." When I reminded them the gospel was free, the conversation ended. Sadly some chose a different perspective than the gospel, and missed the true value of it. When something is so valuable no one could afford it, then it has to be free. And since the gospel is free, its value in inestimable in God's economy, and the only way to see its true value is to make it free-which is how it will make those who accept it.

Which brings us to God. And Phillip, and others like him. And us. You see, tribulation can have its own rewards. If I was never sick, I would never have known Jesus as the great physician. If I had all the wealth, you can take me and ten friends and we will never see $15 million in our lifetimes, then I wouldn't know Jesus as Jehovah Jireh, my provider. If I didn't have to trust God for all my needs, I wouldn't know Him as Lord. But most important, if I hadn't realized my sin, I would never have know Jesus as my savior. In the battle of things seen vs. not seen, we are told the things not seen are eternal. Those are truly the valuables in life, and after.

Now I don't begrudge Phillip the income-he'd be nuts to turn it down. As would we. But sadly he will never see the sides of Jesus that the poor, needy, and trusting in God see every day. For these type of riches come with a curse. A high price tag. And an adjustment of values. Or even loss of values. So pray for him, and those like him. They too need Jesus, for although money can buy a lot of things, it won't get you to heaven. Only Jesus will. Like the doxology says, "praise God from whom all blessings flow..." And I like how Pete Maravich said it, who had both money and fame-but no glory until he met Jesus. "Money will buy a fine dog, but only love will make it wag its tail."

For truly it is easier for a rich man to get through the eye of a needle than to get to heaven. And joy is not the absence of suffering, but the presence of God. And a high salary is no guarantee of a Super Bowl ring. Take the time today to get right with God. May be the best investment you make this year. Like always, His grace is sufficient for you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the same, only different-and why size matters

This oughta cheer you up-we are more alike than we like to admit. There...now that you are basking in that truth, one of the ways we are alike, is our self inflicted wounds. Wounds that we don't have to go out of the body for-literally. But that can drive us out of our minds. Wounds that we see coming, know what to do, but choose the wrong way instead, and endure the wound, a literal shooting of ourselves in the foot. Been there, done that. Wish I had paid better attention.

My latest escapade was on New Years Eve afternoon. Dan was putting a rear tire on the

Street Triple, aka S3, and told me I needed a new chain. Not a surprise, at 20k it was worn, and the last time it was adjusted was when the old rear tire was installed, over 15,000 miles ago. I think I did pretty good. He also mentioned the sprockets were worn, but not enough to change, just a chain at this time. So off I went, the chain still loose, but only in spots, and started to check out chains on the internet. Simple, huh?

Well, what size chain does an S3 have? Not listed in the owners manual. No S3 forum told of the size, and even chain manufacturers' web sites from DID to Tsubaki didn't mention it. In fact, some only sold it with sprockets, and they weren't cheap! So after wasting too much time on something I didn't need right now, and wouldn't be getting for a couple months, I was hooked on finding out what size chain it had. And then, who would sell it the cheapest. Just when frustration was about to turn maniacal, I decided to wait. What did it matter today anyway? But what was that size?

So Tuesday I was exiled from the house while my ceilings were being painted from the fire. And stopping at the Triumph shop, figured Grinny would know. We have been friends for over 24 years, and he is a Yamaha legend, and with Triumph for 10 years should know. His books didn't say either, but had the price of chain only at a lot more than I was willing to spend. He even got out and under an S3 and looked on the chain-the size used to be imprinted on the link. Nothing. So...it being Tuesday, and fed up with something this simple, I called Mickey. Which I should have done in the first place. "525," he said. "Comes in a kit, that is cheap." And again reminded me why people from all over the US with Triumph problems call him. And also reminded me of why to replace the sprockets too. Where I was trying to cheap out, he wanted to do it right. And for about only $30 more than just the chain. So next time I do a bike swap, the S3 gets a new chain and sprockets. By the guy who has been the only one since 1996 to work on my bikes. I trust no one else. So why, did I go off on this three day tear into frustration? Once again stupid hurts.

One of the saddest things I hear in hospitals is "the doctors have done all they can, I guess we have to pray now." Pray now? Why aren't you praying first? How do you know what to do unless you ask? Then obey! How many lives are lost or healings delayed because we try to lean on our own understanding? Just the opposite that God tells us to do. He says trust! He knows what to do, all we need to do is listen and obey.

And it always works, when you are in the spirit. Don't use man's solutions for a spiritual issue-they will not work! But God, can use the things of man, to solve a problem. But you must first ask. Ever want to read the Bible but don't get it? Have you prayed first, asking the spirit to guide you? Remember the spirit is our helper, who guides us in all things. He is the one who lovingly pointed us to Jesus for salvation, and comforts us when we go astray. Who shows us what scriptures to read, and explains them to us like no one else can. Could this be why we should pray first?

Are you seeking God first, or the internet? Are you asking opinions until you find one that agrees with your opinion? Are you following His direction, knowing what He tells is the right advice? Are facts more important than opinions? You have trusted Him with salvation, don't you think He can deal with your other problems as well?

Then all these things will be added unto you. Wisdom not found on any web site, parts catalog, seasoned parts man, or on the side of the chain. Go to God first! A lesson well remembered! For that person riding past you when you are still fretting about your bike, could be you if you only trust God.

Man self inflicts pain, Jesus shows mercy and grace. Your choice. I rather be riding. And enjoying the blessings of God. A lesson to remember the next time a situation develops.

Hey, while you're here, does anyone know which tire is better, the Q2 or the Pirelli? I'm gonna need tires in a few months...sorry, old habits die hard. Seek God first, and all will be added unto you. Pray in the spirit, ask the spirit to guide, then obey the spirit. If you don't know, ask the one who knows!

And to those of you with shaft or belt drive, thank you for your patience. If it has wheels someday it'll get ya. Just remember, the rules are still the same no matter what you ride-it's all about Jesus!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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girls ride too, get over it

For the first 27 years of our marriage, Theresa was my buddy seat sitter. Then one day, she and Christopher decided to take riding lessons, at the suggestion of a friend, to see if they really wanted to ride. When I received a phone call on their first break advising me to "get me a bike of my own," I knew it was serious. And so I did, a used 2003 red Bonneville. Which they shared, with Christopher riding it 95% of the time. But one day she was able to pry it from his hands, and took her first solo ride. The next phone call I got was not as encouraging. While sitting at a light, someone had run into the truck in back of her, and then the truck hit her-sending her up in the air, and the bike traveling over 60' without her on it. Totaled! But she was OK. A hit and run no less, but they caught the loser, and he did more jail time! But would she ever ride again?

After being told that she didn't do anything wrong, and encouraged by the other three riders in the family, we took the money from the settlement and bought me a new bike-she wanted my blue Bonneville. Funny how God works things out. And she decided to ride again, despite bad advice, and any personal fears she might have had. She had to trust God. And a wise decision it was, as she has now ridden over 45,000 miles herself, and almost 100,000 addition miles as my buddy seat sitter since then. Her commitment was displayed when Pastor Fred offered to trailer her bike to the Hollister Rally that year with his, a 1000 mile round trip ride. "No, I'm riding," she said, and did, and has more than once. But the change came when she had to deal with her fears of riding. Or more precisely, of being hit again. A decision not made easily, as it would have affected our lives, lifestyle, ministry, and our marriage. But her fear of God-aka respect, far outweighed her fear of danger, and her trusting God has led to countless trips, in over 48 states, and ministry opportunities beyond description. A lesson for all who fear injury, but not God.

Ezekiel 47 tells of a man who is walking by a river with God. A river flowing from a holy mountain, and then into a sea that is alive. A sea alive with the Lord. At first the man walks on the shore, ankle deep, and is blessed. But as God leads, he is soon waist deep. More blessings, but still he can touch bottom. Still walking on his own. God is just along for the walk at this time. Finally he is tested when he is told to go where he must swim, where he cannot touch bottom, and to trust God. And when he does, the best blessings are there. The water being a symbol of the Holy Spirit, it is only when fully immersed you see the greater things of God. It is when you trust Him, and not your situation, so you see the love poured out. And multiple blessings unfold, blessings not found when your feet are secure. Ask Peter, for when he walked on the water to Jesus, he could have bragged how "he" walked on the water, when really it was just an act of obedience. But when he fell in, and the water was deep, over his head, with a storm raging, that Jesus reached out and grabbed him to safety. Then, it became personal.

Today you will have the chance to join those who quit under adversity. I hear too many "real bikers" who never will ride again after a small fall. And let a passion that God has given them be taken away. When really, if they trusted God, the results would be much different. Too many blessings missed by giving up. Fearing situations rather than revering and trusting God. So fear God, just like the gospel says. Not out of fear, like falling, but out of respect for who He is. Trust Jesus. If He can save your soul, don't you think He can ride with you?

Ask my wife. For her decision that day, like yours, will impact others. A decision I am glad she made. For ministry is one thing, but like riding, it is much better when you do it with the one you love. Together we do both together. But came that close to losing it all. Just ask the man who walked on the water, which event changed his life more. And trust Jesus in all you do.

Seven more years of riding together, 48 states, 45,000 miles on her own bike, and the endless times we got blessed-together. With more to come. All based on one decision-trusting God. No excuses-you can either ride or trailer your bike through life. As for me and my family, we choose to ride with the Lord. Make the right decision today-and let the blessings begin. Ride without your feet touching the ground, lean deeper into the curves and see more of Jesus and His blessings than you ever could from behind a windshield. Immersed in the love of the Holy Spirit. Whoever says Jesus doesn't ride never asked Him along. He does and loves to. Your choice....Like her license plate frame says "Girls ride too-get over it!"

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

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what colors is blue?

Sitting at the corner of Sunset Blvd. and the PCH in Malibu is a Von's with a patio overlooking the ocean. And on this afternoon, as we sat drinking our Coke with the latte crowd, our view of the afternoon sun on the Pacific was beautiful. With the sun hitting the blues, it created so many hues that they were difficult to take in. Just tilting your head a bit caused a whole new spectrum to appear, and the light show on the Pacific that afternoon was incredible. But in contrast to what God offered that afternoon, were the cars sitting at the light on PCH waiting for it to turn green. With some 30 cars waiting, they were all black, white, or shades of grey. In a complete contrast to the ocean, these cars were boring. They were almost depressing to look at, so we cast our eyes back upon the ocean. And even to these color blind eyes, I may not know all the colors I see, but give me color anytime.

Before this generation of drab colored vehicles, we had colors. Blues, reds, greens, yellows, and variations on all those themes, colors giving personality and life to what we drove. Colors with names, just to share a few from the 55-57 Chevy color charts. Colors that would liven up any plain sedan, and give it the illusion of the reddest of convertibles. Poetic colors, romantic colors, bright and alive colors. Gypsy red, India ivory, Dusk pearl, Sierra gold, Nassau blue, Crocus yellow, and Laurel green-a color pallet that even the names spoke excitement. And as late as 10 years ago I even had a truck painted Atlantic Bright blue metallic clearcoat. Maybe the prettiest blue ever-definitely way ahead of anything at that Malibu intersection that day. Colors that told about us, that gave us life, and helped us stand out from the crowd. Colors that gave life,and boy do we need more life and color today.

God is light, and that is where color comes from. Reflecting through a glass as in a prism, or reflecting off the ocean, or watching a New Mexico sunset, these all reflect the unending color range that God has available. No blacks or grays-but real color. As shown via Mr. ROY G. BIV. The colors of the rainbow-red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. But with millions of hues in between when God shines His light on them. Which leads me to the question, what color is your God? What light of God's shines out from you? Is it the colors of the rainbow, with all the possibilities in between, or are you shades of gray? Is there color to your life, or just the background of daily life? For what shines in you, reflects what will shine out of you. Do you want more God in your life? Get ready for more color. Do you really want Jesus to be Lord of your life? Get ready for colors you have never seen before-a spectrum of love that no artist could duplicate. Colors with names that reflect who God is, and who you are. The colors of love, joy, peace, and patience. Blues that relieve the blues. Kindness, goodness, and meekness. Greens that reflect a truly green environment, not just an ecological slogan. Reds that glow from the heart, and yellows that give light to the darkest day. Colors-a message from God long ago via a rainbow to Noah, and a reminder that He is beauty and light-no darkness at all!

Today may be the crocus yellow morning you are looking for. Or that Nassau blue afternoon you so much desire. A gypsy red evening may be awaiting you, but only in God will you see all the colors of life He has for you. Only through His eyes will the infinite color spectrum be available, and visible. So trust and try it God's way today. You may be a four door sedan in life, but let the colors of the gospel show you off as the red convertible you long to be. A world with and of color, provided by Jesus Christ.

What color is your God? All the above colors and more. Colors that you will never see if you don't know Him. Maybe there is a reason hearses are black. So let your light shine wherever and whenever and whatever you are driving. Or riding. And remember that even on the cloudiest day, just on the other sides of the clouds is the most beautiful blue you can imagine. Let Jesus reign in your life-He is truly the colors of the day!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

RIP 2011

Good morning, this is my last devotion of the year 2011. Number 224! That's right, 224. And I am understandably tired. And you should be too. We have been through a lot together. But 224? If your pastor preached every Sunday last year, and if you attended, you would have heard 52 messages about God, I have written more than FOUR times that this year. To say the least, the Holy Spirit has been busy many mornings this year. If you don't believe in miracles, try that one yourself. There you go, proof of the Holy Spirit, for without Him the number drops to zero. So I am going to rest and spend time with my family. We will be wearing name tags the first few days, until we get familiar with each other again, but we all need a rest. It has been a year where I have seen God do more with less, aka me, and I am amazed. Somewhere between your prayers, my occasional obedience, and His mercy and grace, I made it until today. So much to reflect on and be thankful for.

But He also reminds me to rest, for next year the challenges are going to be greater. Just watching the news shows us how scripture concerning the last days is unfolding. The rapture of the church is imminent-are you ready? So many times this year God has reminded me of the urgency of this, and instructed me to be about HIS business, and He will take care of mine. So I pass that good advice on to you-be about God's business. For all conventional ways of doing business may fade away, or be taken away in the next year. No wonder it is written in 2 Corinthians that the things seen are temporal, but the things not seen are eternal. So I will be resting up, for 2012 will be an exciting year.

Not because of the Mayan calendar, or Hollywood movies, or who is in the White House, or even perverse, satanic uttering's from so-called Christians predicting the end of the world. It is because of Jesus Christ, and the wedding feast with Him. He will soon call for His bride-us, and like a Jewish bridegroom, doesn't know the time or date until His Father tells Him. Then the trumpet will blow, He will call for His bride, and the party begins. In heaven. With us! Beware of anyone who tries to figure or tell you a time. NO ONE but God the Father knows. And He ain't telling! So if Jesus doesn't know, what makes you think He would He tell you?

This past year I have spent time with some incredible people, who have impacted my life. Gavin and Lynsay-wow! Alex who only last week went to heaven. Fr. Al whose friendship I dearly covet, and who God has spared yet another cancer so He can minister to others. The population in Heaven has grown through God's grace by more people I know and loved this year than ever before. From Lee, Don, Tammi, Bill, Alex, Randy, Mena, my Shirl girl, and others, God showed mercy and took them home. At the feast, just waiting for the guests to arrive. My prayer-make sure you are there, it takes Jesus. Make sure you are on the guest list, aka the Book of Life. Trust God.

For 224 times this year I hope that I have been an encouragement to you, and others. From my writings, to John sharing them in prison through air vents, to my bikers friends in Minsk, to all of you who claim Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior-Happy New Year. Keep up the good work. Man may not notice, but God does. And some of us do also.

Keep my family in prayer as this month has brought many challenges.
But it also brings more opportunities for God to be God, and to make new testimonies. Keep both my sons in prayer as they both lost their jobs this month, through no fault of their own. We had a small fire and will have parts of the house redone by insurance. Keep our financial needs in your prayers. When God called me He promised "manna in my garage, my refrigerator, and for my mortgage." And not to ask for money. HE has been faithful, and allowed me to do His work instead of asking for money via letters, e-mails, and support mail. No major donors here, just a benevolent Dad, who wants to be God in my life. Just like the apostles, He sent me out with what I have on, and has met all my needs. A lesson to all, and especially for me-it ain't always easy. But the benefits are incredible!

So trust God this next year. As houses are foreclosed more than ever, as jobs become scarcer, and as world events spell catastrophe, remember that God takes care of His children. So let Him! As things get tougher, His return is closer!

And pray for my wife, who has faithfully, but not always understandably stood by me. Good thing she trusts God more than me. So we're going riding. Not sure where, but alone together. My best friend, my co-minister, and more to me than words can say. My sweet and my love. We all should be so blessed.

224 times this year I have written via the Holy Spirit to all who read. I cannot say I love you better than to point you to Jesus via the spirit right now. With compassion that only Christ can offer. So for the 224th time, let me say I love you.

with compassion,

Mike

Happy New year

matthew 25biker.blogspot.com

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speed limits, God doesn't

Triumph just came out with a cool tag line for its retro ad about Bonneville, the Salt Flats, not the bike. "The finish line is wherever your speedometer maxes out." I like that, but sadly too many max out long before the speedo needle pins itself. Death we call it, and as a society we are afraid to use the word. "Arrested," the doctor told me of my friend Bill two weeks ago. The Bible mentions that we will all sleep. Passed away I often hear, or that the person has gone to a better place. Not here any more. He is resting with the angels. And I think you get my point, we are afraid of death. At least as a group. Individually some of look forward to it.

But with a certain caveat, although we are not afraid to die, we are not sure of the procedure. And maybe that is what really scares us. We all wish to die in our sleep, if for some reason we expire before the rapture occurs. But using the analogy of a speedo, how many of us use all of the numbers on it. How many although it says 120, ever hit the 100 mark in life? How many find a safe speed, and no matter the road condition maintain that speed? Just because it makes them feel safe. Like an old slot car, just staying in the groove until the power goes out. With no regard as to what it makes the other traffic feel.

The opposite is the ones who brag about pinning their speedo needle at 120 or above, and think they really went that fast. I hear guys all the time tell me about how their Kawaharleyhondumph went 150mph, and they still had plenty of throttle to go. Then I see their bike, and recognize it is federally governed to 105. And when pointing this out to them, I am amazed at how they will argue-sadly never seeing 150 in real life, only on a wildly exaggerated speedo. Which only upsets those who have been there. A legend in their own minds. Never allowing reality to taint their legacy.

Maybe that is why racers don't have speedos on their bikes, but ride by engine speed. Which can translate to road speed if needed. They ride to use all of the engine they can, with only the redline stopping them. Then upshifting and repeating the same. But even better are those who ride by sound-the engine tells them when to shift, and when it has gone far enough. And for those who have grenaded an engine, it will also advise when you have gone too far.

And on any given street, if you are really curious, open up the throttle and let her go. Sooner or later an officer of the law will be happy to comply with your wish to know your true speed, and will even document it on paper for you. Even make it public record in court for you. Just another service they provide. Is that what those little white numbers on black really mean?

Life is for living. And for all not at the max. Some are content to never know all the blessings God has for them. They never trust, never twist the throttle of life wide open, and are suspicious of those who do. They want a 150 mph God, but never get out on the freeway. They live like they ride, safe and secure in their own little world. They are noticeable by their presence in the fast lanes-holding up everyone else by their slower speeds. They have the same potential as other high performance bikes, yet never use it. They have the cc's, but not the JC's for life. Stick with something you can ride-like a moped. You are missing out on what Jesus has for you.

At the other end of the spectrum I have seen moped riders, use every last bit of their bike's potential. Never looking at the speedo-that would only ruin the illusion. They get every bit out of their ride, and if 25 feels like 100, so much the better. They get everything out of that moped they can, and more than it has to offer. They are the ones who trust God more, and who see His blessings. It is not the potential they are interested in, but what the bike will do on any given day-in any given situation.

Take a look at your odometer. How many miles have you ridden never knowing what your bike will do? And take a look at Jesus. How many years have you lived not knowing what He can do? Maybe today is the day to take both of them out for a ride. Find a stretch of road and see what the bike will really do. It may be scary, but I guarantee it will be exciting. And do the same with God. Today a situation will occur where only He can handle it. Let Him.
Watch the numbers go higher in your faith than they ever have before. Watch as the needle pins itself, and feel the presence of God. Repeat as needed. And watch as 120 feels like 60, not the other way around. It is only when your odometer quits turning that life is over. Until then, find out what life really has to offer. Ride at redline, in faith. And watch as the new normal is represented by your ever increasing faith. And ever increasing blessings.

True joy is best experienced when all its potential is used. Live life with a firm grip on the throttle, and get the most Jesus has to offer in every situation. And start enjoying the ride that Jesus promises. Wheelies optional.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com