an offer you shouldn't refuse

His real name was Vito Corleone. But he was known in the neighborhood, and professionally as Don Vito Corleone. Yet he was referred to by his friends and associates as Godfather, a term of endearment. Yet to his children he was Pop. “That’s Pop talking,” Sonny argued with Michael when he joined the Marines. Michael once said "my Father once taught me, keep your friends close, but your enemies closer.” And then there’s Fredo, poor, weak Fredo, who when his father is shot in the streets, sits and cries out to him “PAPA!” One man, known by so many, by so many names, yet the same person. Some a term of respect, some professional, some personal, some very personal, intimate, and loving. But how could they all be talking about the same guy?

In the biking world it is popular to have a nickname. Take my friend Ray for instance, who goes by Chief. People who know him or introduce him call him Chief, but when I got to know him, I called him Ray, more intimate. Not everyone knows Ray, but mention Chief and their ears perk up. Same guy, just a different relationship. But to his kids he is still Dad. And so it goes with nicknames. Take Ivan Stewart for instance, aka the Ironman. Everyone I know calls him Ivan, never the Ironman, yet I have heard kids and fans call out “Hey Ironman” at t-shirt signings. Yet I know all three of his sons, who refer to him as Dad. Again, the same man, yet a different man to each one. I know friends who wish to be introduced as Dr., and I have friends who are pastors who just want to be introduced by their first name. Some wish you to know what they are, yet some are confident in who they are.

It seems we all have terms of endearment that we call the special ones in our lives, and that those names are reserved for only us to use. They show a certain intimacy, and in our family we each have one, reserved only for our family to use. Sorry inquiring minds who want to know, not for public consumption. And that is how it should be. Names that have either been earned honestly, by default, or by a specific instance. For instance, the first son in Texas is always referred to as Bubba. In Italy, he is Sonny. And yet many variations on a theme exist. And even how the names are used in public have a preference. “He’s my father,” to strangers, “that’s my Dad,” to those who are friends, and my older son calls me Mike. Always has-yes I am his real father. And when upset with me, I’m Michael. Go figure. And to my parents I have always been Michael, Mike to everyone else. Mikeyboy to some. I was Crazy in college. Yet I knew when my Dad was failing last year when I called, and he called me Mike. The first and only time he did. So names do mean something, depending on who you are talking about, or to.

It is not unusual to be in a group of Christians when praying, and someone will start “Oh precious Heavenly Father God, Lord Jesus.” Now over the years I have come to tell about who was praying by their intro into prayer. Not judging, just observing. Would you introduce your Father as “Daddy, husband, son of his parents, teacher, father, wage earner, dog walker, and disciplinarian-or wielder of the belt.” He may be all those things, but at that moment, he may be “this is my Dad.” When introduced to friends. Yet when we pray we feel we must address God as all the above, just in case we miss one. Yet Jesus told us to refer to Him as ABBA, or Daddy. Tells us much about His relationship with His Father just in that one word. Yet He tells us also when praying, to say “our Father, who art in heaven..” maybe not use the same intro, make it personal, but He is referring to the Almighty. You see sometimes my Father was the final authority on things, and when authority was needed, he was my father. But most of the time he was Daddy, a closer, more intimate relationship. And to some their father is just a dad, but to many he is more-he is Daddy. You can choose your own-Pop, Dad, Daddy-they all work. It is whatever works for the both of you-since it is a relationship. Yet Jesus calls Him ABBA, the first and last letters in Hebrew. The first and the last-the ultimate, and He is everything in between. So how personal is your walk, or your talk, your prayer life with God? Do you address Him as sir, reverently, yet impersonal, or do you call Him Abba, Daddy? There are times He will be either , or both, make it that personal. Are you still in awe of Him, living in fear and reverence, or has it become that personal yet, where you can climb on His lap and talk to your Daddy? Do you, or would you refer to Him in public as Dad, or would you fear retribution from those who are so religious? I would encourage you to get to know Him better. No not more about Him, as some students do, but spend some time visiting with Him, hanging out, He calls it meditating on Him. Get to know your Heavenly Father as Dad, and learn to respect and revere the relationship with God. Have a more intimate, and closer relationship with Him. Fathers and sons are a precious thing, does He call you son, or by your name? He refers to Jesus as His son, Job as His servant, and King David as a man after His own heart. Each the same God, but different to each one. So who is He to you?

So next time you feel thankful refer to Him as Father. When hurt and needy, cry out your Daddy. When alone and hanging, maybe He is Dad. But in all things give Him the preeminence, let Him be known. Who He is to you is that personal. He is Lord, Master, Savior to me, yet I prefer to call Him Jesus, His first name. The name above all names, at which every knee shall bow, in heaven and under the earth. And I know Him that well we are on a first name basis. And He calls me Mike, or friend. Can’t get much better than that. Yet many called Him master, savior, rabbi, teacher, or Lord. And yes He is all of them, too. So what’s in a name? Maybe more than we think. Get to know Him better, you can work out the details later. Just think, you can be on a first name basis with the creator of the universe! His parents called Him Jesus, God His Father calls Him Jesus. He has many titles, yet only one name. What you call might just affect your whole relationship with Him. “Can I introduce you to my friend Jesus of Nazareth...” 

meekness and a steady throttle hand

For me, like many of us, it started at a young age. First it was Bill Moore’s mini-bike with a 5hp Tecumseh motor, riding all the back streets of Scotch Plains to visit girls, impress boys, and upset the cops. Then it was Ricky’s Honda 50, with a shifter, but no clutch. Almost a motorcycle. Then riding BH’s CL77, with all the 305cc’s propelling us out of town, and riding at breakneck speeds. Then my first, a CB350, and many more to follow. BMW’s of 600-750-900, then 1000cc’s, and finally the FJ1100-wow! If a Sportster had once been described as putting hair on your chest, I must have been covered when riding Bouke’s Z-1 with the Yoshimura kit. But as I got older, and the cc’s increased, so did the speed, and the need to go faster. And soon motorcycles were hitting the famed 100hp per litre, 62 cubic inches for you Harley types. And today even 600cc sport bikes have well over 125hp, the latest Daytona 675 I rode had 128! Where will it all end? I have even ridden several 2300cc Rockets! Is there no substitute for cubic inches? Is there no replacement for displacement? And as we see things changing, I look at my wife’s first bike, and her second. No 50cc learning here, she took the MSF course of 250 Rebels, then her first bike, a 790cc Bonneville. Today she is like so many others, starting at sizes that we once dreamed of. So where do you go to get your speed fix?

No one wakes up one morning and sets out to fail, or even be mediocre. Yet failure is more common than success anymore. Just listen to the headlines, daily police shootings, crime out of control, schools not safe, and gas prices going up, and up, and up...And with the Federal government following the world’s lead and rushing to fiscal oblivion, some wonder why it happened? And so quickly. But it didn’t, like those of us who started small and ended up on bigger cc’s, the signs have been there. So either they were ignored, laws changed so that crimes aren’t felonies anymore, but only misdemeanors. Have a car accident in Escondido? Don’t call 911 unless you are hurt, they will not respond, or even write a report. So I know the answer, more laws. Makes sense, except when the current ones cannot be enforced, what will more laws do? John Lennon’s murderer broke over 70 existing, would 71 have prevented it? Maybe 72, 82, or 102? So we write more laws, and things only get worse. Do we see a correlation here? Is more law the answer to crime? More cc’s may have made us faster for awhile, but the engineers got smarter. So did the crooks. Did you know in California you can commit manslaughter and be out of jail in less than seven years? More laws, more crime, more confusion, and it goes on and on...And so as we look to the government and politicians to rescue us, the answer seems to escape them. Nothing new, so what is the replacement for displacement? Are more cc’s the answer, if you can’t ride a 250? The question of the ages, as things have been the same for some time-maybe the beginning.

And then along comes Jesus. More laws, like more cc’s weren’t the answer. If people couldn’t keep ten commandments, how could they possibly know the over 600 Mosaic laws? Quick, what are the Ten Commandments? See? And with laws out of control today, the Department of Justice states there are so many laws that it is impossible to know them all, but be assured you are breaking some everyday! Comforting isn’t it? And so along comes Jesus, making it easy for us. Two laws-one about God, one about you. First-love God first and with all your heart. In other words, God first! Then love others as yourself. Feel good about yourself? Notice how it affects how you treat others? Loving God first will change the attitude to one of love. Simple enough to enact, ask for forgiveness. Believe in your heart, confess Jesus with your mouth and you are saved. But...religion is now upset. We need more ways, maybe Jesus isn’t enough. And if you obey our rules, you will be a better person. So they enact Jesus and... fill in the blank, and soon you have more laws, less Jesus, more sin, and less grace. More cc’s but no more power. Forgetting that the key to power lies in the twist of the wrist. For without control, little power is too much, and too much is never enough. Why not trust Jesus and have it all when needed? Quick, a show of hands, who among you wants more laws? More grace? Laws come with a penalty, grace comes with...more grace. Which shows up in love, peace, and patience. Followed by self control, how is your throttle hand? Is it attached to your heart?

And so along comes Jesus, who is love, peace, and patience. Try that one out on the law. Goodness and kindness. Meekness, mercy, and self control-He leaves it up to you. Your choice. So do we need more laws, or more Jesus? Would you rather be hand cuffed or hugged? Hard to ride in cuffs. Where is the love in that one? No amount of horsepower can overcome that. No matter the skill level or engine size. And then along comes Jesus...

Meekness is power under control, a steady throttle hand. And it works in life too, and with others. Can even keep you from breaking the law, and add grace to your life. Style to your life. More power per cc. Without all the extra size or extra laws. Makes sense. So why not trust Jesus? Will more laws get you to heaven? Jesus will. Only a fool would continue to argue that.

Breaking news...Las Vegas, gunfire on the strip, a drive by shooting. Three dead. Gunmen get away. Now, isn’t shooting people already against the law? Isn’t murder still illegal? Under grace or under the law? Give me more grace, I can handle that. If not, I’m willing to try...If not today, then when? Just like there is no substitute for cubic inches, there is no substitute for Jesus. No replacement for His displacement. And then along comes Jesus...

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

only the names have been changed

I was just thinking of all the people I come in contact with, and its a unique group of people. Rich, poor, homeless, home under renovation, renting, buying, some ride, some refuse to, some work, some retired, some won’t or can’t-yet somehow I am friends, or at least acquaintances with all of them. It makes me shudder to think I am the common thread among all my friends, but I find that that makes us all that much more common to each other. For instance, we had dinner Friday night with my old 10th grade girlfriend, still living in Jersey. Her version of our first date is more romantic, my memory fails me there. But their older daughter joined us for dinner, and I found her most pleasant. She had four years ago left home, and travelled west to make her new life, against her parent’s best wishes. Which put me in an interesting position, when asked how I felt about it. Being a parent I want the best for my sons, yet want them to go out on their own. To go after their dreams, not after mine. And so this daughter was faced with seeing her parents for the first time in her new life out here. So what did I think? And does it really matter?

I side with the daughter, who when her mother said with some indignation, “she’ll move back to Jersey,” said daughter said “never.” And I agree, with the younger. Having been in the same situation almost 38 years ago, I was told that “you’ll be back, it’s the same everywhere.” Or “you have friends here, how can you start over?” And many-almost all don’t have any contact with me today, as I didn’t, it isn’t, and I did.” So sitting there I smiled to myself, and chose not to answer. But I side with the daughter, and applaud her for her bravery, even in the sense of it causing family disharmony. This evening took another twist when she, the daughter asked if I would help her look for a car. Right in front of her father. Either he wouldn’t, couldn’t, or she didn’t want him too-in all cases sad to me. I am waiting for her call. But the bomb of the evening was when the girls, minus the daughter went to the lady’s room, and Theresa was told they were splitting up, and hadn’t told their daughter-for over a year! They had rehearsed it, and would tell her that night. Which bummed us out, for many reasons.

As Christians we see very few reasons to divorce, which God has said He hates. Good enough for me, work it out. But as I listened to the daughter talk about her live in boy friend, I wondered what she would think. Her parents had taken vows, probably in a church, and before God, “till death do us part.” How would this look to one living with another, outside of marriage? Why would she want to get married, to make a commitment, when her own parents wouldn’t honor theirs? And they were telling her what to do? What lessons of life were they teaching her? And how would she react?

We were told via Facebook, that the daughter took it well, and it didn’t upset her. I haven’t talked to her yet. Maybe it doesn’t, as she left home on bad terms. Maybe it will, as we all need our parents, and as my father once told me, “you will always be my son, no matter what.” And we had many no matter whats. And so I pray for them, all of them. Some things I don’t get, and this is one of them. By the way, we were out celebrating our 35th anniversary, which they congratulated us on. They never made it to theirs, by choice. We have, by choice. So the question is, “what lessons are we teaching our children?” If the old saying is true,”them that can’t, teach,” I shudder to think of what I have taught my kids. Perhaps more accurate is the older saying “the true measure of success is how your kids describe you to their friends.” And I am comfortable with that.

We also spent that night with Christopher and Reagan. Who both love to have us, we catch up on their careers, watch old movies, listen to music, and eat at NIchols, not bad for 12 hours when you consider six of them spent asleep. I We have tried to teach our sons the right things, brought them up in Jesus, and encouraged them. And it is great to see them growing, and successful. We differ on some viewpoints, but love more than disagree. Different doesn’t mean wrong, just different. But we agree on the main thing-Jesus. And that makes the difference. We have encouraged them to be who they are in Christ. Just like we want to be. And as I see many traits we have shown them over the years bearing fruit, we smile and thank God, for His patience with us, as we find we have changed along with them. Grown is a better word. From my LA loving son, now a world traveller, to my other son, soon moving out, his new career blossoming, we are excited for them. Sadly the other family previously mentioned doesn’t share the same joy as us. They don’t understand, we don’t either, but love covers a multitude of sins, misunderstanding one of them.

Talking with Fu after church one night, I told him how we used to play “why the dinosaurs died?” with my older son. He would mess up, become the dinosaur, and I was the reason they died. AKA punishment. And we would laugh. But a game we only played a few times, was I would be my son, and he would be me. And I was hurt and embarrassed how he talked to me, was I that bad? And it helped me to mellow, to love more. To see things through his eyes, much different.

So how does God see us? And why can’t we see us as He does? First, forgiveness is for past, present , and futures sins. ALL of them. And each time we ask forgiveness, He looks at it as the first time-we are already forgiven. But we remember, while He forgets. And we have a longer memory for other’s sins than our own. So why not try it God’s way. When Jesus told the woman to “go and sin no more,” He had forgiven her. But He knew she would, but He loved her still. He never left her, no matter where or when, and He extends the same to us. Remember that-no one else may be watching, but God always is, not to spy , but to protect. And it works for kids who go astray and their parents who do too. So start today anew with Jesus. Hold no grudges, encourage others including your kids in the Lord. And the best advice may be from scripture, but with a twist from St. Francis Assissi. “Speak the gospel daily, and only use words when needed.” Long after they forget your words, they will remember your actions. We all remember Jesus on the cross, do you remember His words their? See what I mean?

And I’m never going back, I’m sticking with Jesus.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

the road to Exeter

We just got back from celebrating our 35th wedding anniversary, by taking a trip in the truck. No not senile, or fading, but with a purpose behind it all. We were going to Exeter, and visiting the foothills around Sequoia National Park. For all you trendy types who go where your friends go, we chose the Central Valley, and are the better for it. With Exeter, our destination, for a reason. Years ago, on an earlier anniversary trip, again in a car, we discovered Exeter when following a road when the road we were on ended. And again God blessed us, as we fell in love with Exeter. Picture Mayberry 40 years after it went off the air, and welcome to Exeter. Where the mercantile is also home to the International dealer, selling and repairing farm implements since 1916. Where we were greeted by a farmer in overalls, “welcome to Mayberry.” And after browsing the mercantile, went antique shopping, the reason we went by pick-up. And filled it, with the arrangement we would stop by on the way out of town to get the items. Which we did on Monday morning, even after the owner gave us her home phone on the back of her card in case we needed to leave early to get on the road. And with prices half of what they are here, we filled the truck. And were on our way. And we will be back...

But Sunday was the day to retrace our original ride, and we did it backwards, arriving in Springville some 48 miles later. On roads some would call paths, passing ranches, cattle, farms, but no people, except for the occasional bicyclist, or hiker. My kind of road, I will return on the Tiger! Then off across the valley to Hanford, to show Theresa where they have the annual vintage bike meet each May-a must see. But really we wanted to go to the Superior Dairy Products Company malt shop. Where we were in for a real treat. Where large is the new small, and the new large is shared by a table of six. I thought the prices were high, until we saw the servings from our place at the counter-always the best place to sit anyway. One scoop of ice cream-all made on the premises in the factory in back, was almost a quart of ice cream. See the pictures of the sundaes, @$6.05 each a deal! Our milkshake was a quart of strawberry ice cream, turned into soft serve that no straw had a chance with. And with grins as wide as our faces, it was easy to shovel it in, which makes you wonder, why have a meal when the desert will fill you up just fine? Bring a friend! A great destination for any club ride, skip lunch-we’re having ice cream!

But how do we just stumble upon places like this? Why Exeter, even with its beautiful morals depicting valley history, why go there? The picture is the one on the side of the Police Station depicting life in the 40’s, a motor cop and a farmer. Just visiting, neighbors, no tickets involved. Remember when we all waved to each other? Maybe we all just wish to get back to the Garden, to where it all began. To seek a simpler time, where handshakes sealed deals, strangers were greeted as friends, prices were fair, and no one left the counter hungry. And wanting to do it all over again. When God says He knows the plans for us, we so often wish to know ahead of time, missing out on the suspense and pleasant surprises He has for us. Yet He knows, and so many chance meetings aren’t to Him. Taking a new road, wondering where it goes? He knows, and may be guiding you, for your benefit. Hungry, ask Him. The little kid in Him might just guide you past the meal to the desert. Or take you to a low rider show, and eat some local hand made adobada tacos. Or take you to a farm stand filling up on goodies, leaving room for the ice cream, of course. It may take you to places with your best friend, in my case my wife, to spend them with. But God has so many places to take us, that we would never go to unless He took us. But why do we resist Him?

A key component of grace is obedience. Yes, grace is all about Jesus, but how long did it take for you to accept Him and His grace? See, it takes obedience, so follow where He leads. Go boldly where you have never been before, and let God bless you. Sunday morning church services are not the only place God blesses, so take Him along with you. See the beauty of your surroundings through His eyes, and watch as the blessings unfold. Trust Him, as a so-called chance meeting for us turned into 35 years of marriage, how a closed road took us to Exeter, and a bike meet took us to to Superior Dairy Products. We aren’t always sure of what lies on the road ahead, but with God leading I can assure you it will be exciting and fun. And you may even get to bless others.

Our four day/three night trip seemed to last for weeks. Fun will do that. We ate good, albeit too much, spent too much, what vacation don’t you, and spent time with God making new memories. So, what are your weekend plans? Do they include God? Or are you just following the trendy, and not knowing why. Trendy will never be cool, it comes from the heart. And Jesus is cool-the coolest. Better than a huge sundae at Superior, and able to make a trip in the truck worthwhile. Imagine what He can do on a motorcycle? So ask Him to help you plan your next trip, don’t wait for any special event, today is special enough. And then let Him guide you-forego the calories for the blessing, the ride for the truck, and get back to where He wants you. It all started in the Garden, with two people who wanted to go their own way, and disobeyed God. Despite that, look at all the blessing you have. Now imagine how incredible it will be when obeying, the Garden awaits. And you don’t have to finish your meal to have it. For God’s blessings like a great ice cream begin with Him-and a friend to share it with. Happy Anniversary to my wonderful wife-many more milkshakes, and chocolate rides lie ahead. You never know where the road to Exeter may lead you...and it is always better to have someone to share that sundae with. God’s grace like the best ice cream is always Superior!

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

sweethearts and softballs

I read once where those of us who ride in So Cal are the most fickle, even trading bikes year after year for 1/10th of a second improvement in its 1/4 mile time. Rides we could never duplicate ourselves, yet we were taken in by the glowing prose of the road test editor. And some years ago even Motor Trend admitted about tying their Car of the Year winner to those who advertise heavily, it is not at all wrong for us to be suspicious of the media-written or visual. So many of us, especially when younger, were attracted by pretty faces-remember the Norton girl, but where are the bikes now, lost heavily in depreciation, to gain what only a trained rider would notice, and only if they went from old bike to new. So coming across an article in Cycle Guide-RIP, from 30 years ago, I was reminded how gullible we can be. The editor had addressed the issue of accusations made about writing sweetheart articles about bikes for the manufacturers, just to get or maintain ad revenue. Doesn’t seem too far fetched, does it? But he addressed the issue professionally, realistically, but also truthfully. At least the issues he mentioned.

I know from first hand that bikes sent to magazines are set to proper settings, I ride many of them. But in the hands of some editors, I have seen the bike treated worse than a work truck, with as much respect shown as a low end rental car. Abused is the key word, but never admitted to. If it survives them, it should survive anything. It’s just like a NASCAR motor designed to go only 500 miles, be careful after that. Just in case the new prospective new owner rides 10/10ths. I know few who do, 6/10ths would be pushing it for most of us. Bikes that gain praise when tested on the track, can fail miserably on the street. Suspensions can be too harsh, riding position for everyday, and only fools ride all the time at red line on their daily commute. But that same bike when tested under street conditions, can fail in a racer’s hands. Too soft, no midrange power, seat too hard. The same bike under different conditions can be a best buy, or a nightmare. Not the editor’s fault, read the article on how it was tested. It’s all there.

But yet many complain about the bike, especially when it is under warranty still. Specious complaints abound, and in California, with its liberal consumer protection laws, it can be eligible for buyback if in the shop for more than 30 days-no matter the problems. Don’t you think Joe Consumer knows this? And I know it happens with cars, and I now see it with motorcycles. Can’t afford it, too fast, only gets 40mpg instead of 45, too expensive to afford, my wife won’t ride on it, and pick your excuse. And of course, the magazine wrote the article to sell bikes for the manufacturer, so they are at fault too. No personal liability involved, we all read the same stories, the same ads, and in some cases bought at the same store. So how can one be so wrong, and another so right?

Some only hear, and only hear what they want. But some take it to heart. We have become a group of those who only read headlines, text messages in cryptic codes, or sound bytes. We don’t listen, and I am not sure we want to. We watch as reporters lob softball questions to dishonest politicians, and then accept less than truthful answers. We only hear what we want to hear, but take very little to heart. So it was 2000 years ago, with the 7 sons of Sceva. Brothers who heard about the miracles of Jesus, the healings, demon possessions, and others things He healed. Wishing to be part of the trend, but not knowing Jesus or anything about Him, they did know of a man who was demon possessed. And approached him, using what they had heard. But when trying to cast the demons out, the demons attacked them, but not before insulting them even more. “We know Jesus,” they screamed, “and we have heard of the apostle Paul. But who are you nothings? We have never heard of you!” And sent them away bleeding, beaten, and naked-running for their lives. All based on what they thought they had heard, never taking it heart. Never knowing the saving grace of Jesus. They suffered physical, emotional, social, and spiritual pain needlessly. Their focus was on themselves, and what it could do for them. They thought themselves to be righteous, in their own eyes, because of their actions. But it takes a commitment to Jesus, a changing of the heart, not just an attitude adjustment of what is good for me. They trusted their own limited understanding, and didn’t trust God. So close, yet so far. And so needlessly wrong.

Get to know God. Read His word. Pray, which is a conversation, a dialogue not a monologue, where both speak, then both listen. If only the Sceva boys had listened. They found fame, but were infamous, and their story is so important that God includes it in the Bible, Acts 19. So before you sign on the bottom line for your new ride, ask questions. Take a test ride. Read the articles, not just for what you want them to say. And most of all pray before you make the decision. It may be true that a bad day riding is better than a good day at work, but the right decision can make each ride the best-only wanting you to ride more and farther. A good day at the track can be painful to your buns riding home.

It is like that with Jesus. Testimonies are important, but get to know the man who wrote the Bible, not just about Him. Spend time with Him and get to know of His love, mercy, and grace firsthand. It is a lifelong marathon we race, but at a 1/4 mile at a time. And if some guys named Sceva advertise a bike for sale, just say no thanks. And go on to the next one. What you read may not be what you get. Or want. Just like the same bike is great on the track and lousy on the street, don’t base your relationship with Jesus based on a bad church experience. Jesus had them too. Get out and feel the wind in your face, and get to know Jesus personally. Ask the tough questions, no sweetheart reviews here. On the track, the street, church, home, or work, ask Jesus. If only the Scevas had been smart enough to ask. You see, inquiring minds still want to know. Inquiring minds find out.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

t-shirt theology

To those of us who have chosen to rebel against suits, ties, and shirts with collars, we have found solace in t-shirts. The very same clothing item we used to wear under our collared shirts, white of course, at least at first, has now become a daily item for most of us. When God called me into ministry, and I got rid of all my suits and ties, I kept one shirt with a collar, which in almost five years have never found the right scenario to wear it. Church-no. Weddings-uh uh. Funerals, black t-shirt is fine, under leather, of course. And when so many feel the need-pressured, to dress up, I stay comfortable, like many of my friends in the proper t-shirt. I marvel at those who try to be cool via a trend, but trendy will never be confused with cool, just under a delusion. But we can tell... So I have a wardrobe of t-shirts. Some from our various travels, some from cool places we have eaten. Some represent motorcycles, and some have the vintage look, mainly because they are. Like their owner. Not old school ,just school. Still not sure at what age my t-shirt becomes vintage, but somehow we know. So when I heard the Hollister Rally is back on for 2013, I looked through my collection of Hollister Rally shirts, some never having been worn. And looked forward to this years, and hopefully next. But I also came across some shirts I had forgotten about, and some good rides, and memories came from them. But just as there are my favorites, some have become worn out from wear. And at some point will get elected to the T-shirt Hall of Fame, aka the garage. For old t-shirts make great polishing cloths. Cotton absorbs oil and brake fluid. And unlike the trendy nitrocellulose polishing rags, they don’t melt when rubbed against a hot exhaust header, or when you touch a warm head. Nope, t-shirts, the good old cotton ones go one until they are shredded. And it is with regret that we finally have to throw our old friend away. Finally worn out, not functional, but the memories remain.

Now my wife also uses old t-shirts for cleaning and dusting. What is a swifter but old t-shirt material? So why buy one when an old t-shirt will do? But what about using the wrong t-shirt? In the pecking order of t-shirts, some have hallowed status, as they would never go into the rag pile. Torn, shredded, stained, and unwearable, I’ll let you know if it is or isn’t, some just go from closet to drawer, saved but forgotten about, until looking for something else misplaced, and I come upon them, and the cycle of memories start again. But some still get used as rags, and even then some are for oil, some for washing, some for polishing. A true caste system of cotton-and you thought it was just a shirt. Please don’t ever call them rags.

Now if you have ever spent time around cars, shop rags are a good thing to have. But never have the absorbancy to clean up when the oil runs out of the drain plug hole, left empty when you forgot to replace it before you filled the crankcase. They don’t clean up brake fluid very well, and have no absorbancy like a t-shirt. Once again cotton is king. And although they are reusable, when mixed in with ones from machine shops when cleaned, can pick up metal shavings too small for the eye to see, but not too small to scratch the paint. And so again t-shirts to the rescue. And the tale goes on...

Now the Bible has a thing or two to say about filthy rags. Even in this pre-petroleum era, rags were used. I am not sure about t-shirts though, have never seen a Jesus shirt from then, although I have some I have bought here myself.
But the scriptures tell us that our righteousness is as filthy rags. And that they are like our righteousness, they fade away, when overcome by our iniquities. But just as a rag’s purpose is to clean up a mess, when we are done with them we dispose of them, environmentally correct of course, right? But what of our righteousness? It depends on where your source of righteousness comes from. If from yourself, bragging on your good deeds, and bringing praise upon yourself, you have some dirty rags. But if you are walking with God, with His righteousness shining through you, then it is His righteousness you possess. And like your favorite old shirt, you want to cling to it, and wear it whenever possible. Until it is worn out, and goes from closet to drawer, to garage, to pile, to eventually the trash, when it is of no use anymore. Sadly many live their lives like that, starting out strong in the Lord, and ending up in the trash heap. No one ever sets out to fail, but whenever you trust your own righteousness, you are headed that way. How sad it is to see an old friend, once walking with God, but having fallen away. Drifting like leaves in the wind, a soiled t-shirt of a life. Not putting God first, but seeking a righteousness based on self, as if anything outside of Jesus Christ could ever be labeled righteousness. Filthy rags can either become filthy form being used, or being misused. That decision is yours. And like I have heard biker’s say about their colors, “if it isn’t in your heart, don’t wear it on our back.” Jesus wears stripes on His back He took for us, do we wear Him on our hearts?

It is our sin that separates us from God, and His righteousness. No t-shirt, club, colors, church, or religion can restore that. Only Jesus is the way to God, the stepping stone. He became the dirty t-shirt that was once new, and then worn out for our sins. He was thrown into the trash, only to rise again-sin and death couldn’t hold Him. So I ask, what are you holding onto? Is it time to change shirts, to get some new rags? If they are dirty due to sin, replace them now. If from doing God’s will, save them, but keep the clean ones handy,too. We never know when the chance to fall into sin will attack us, so like your mother told you, wear clean underwear. Wear a clean heart with Jesus, but don’t hide it under your outer clothes. Wear Him where He can be seen. Maybe someone will ask where you got that cool shirt? And it doesn’t have to be a religious shirt either. Remember trendy will never be cool, but Jesus always will be.

It is Valentine’s Day today, and my wife has a heart shirt on. The shirt she bought to wear during my open heart surgery. I don’t ever see that one becoming a filthy rag, or being used as a dust cloth. No car waxing for it, for it represents something that reminds her of Jesus. For us it is a sign to remind her of my new aorta, of Jesus changing our lives. Of saving mine against all odds. And it gives her a chance to share a testimony of His righteousness. A shirt that will never become like a filthy rag. Not all rags end up dirty. Used yes, but not dirty. Stay clean with Jesus, be cleansed in His blood. Be reminded of His righteousness, not your own. He saved us from the rag bin, the least we can do is wear a clean shirt to remind others.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com 

take it on the lam Lefty before the chicken potters out

The quickest way to be misquoted is to open your mouth and say anything. Add to that an audience, a few who love to gossip, and those who love to hear it, and you have a recipe for disaster. Then all it takes to push me over the edge is some well meaning person to say “I understand,” and even some rock lyrics make more sense. It is like Neil Young and Joni Mitchell, the king and queen of weird had kids, and taught them to speak. Add a dose of Tom Waits, words from his signature song, “The Piano has been drinking,” and you can feel like he did, “I rather have a bottle in front of me, than a frontal lobotomy.” Get it? If you do, please don’t try to explain...we sure don’t. And maybe we don’t want to know...or are better off not knowing! But for years opinions have been loosely formed on things people said, will say, or never said. It is like all the so-called political pundits explaining what the politicians say-they lie. To each other. Let’s just try and define our economic condition. If my neighbor loses his job, that’s a recession. When you lose yours that’s a depression. When you can pay all your bills, things are doing fine. I just may have to rethink my Neil Young opinion, suddenly he makes more sense than the president!

For years we have been enamored by rock stars, music, and their lyrics. My friend Bruce thought Paperback Writer was Take a Fast Right Turn, I can still hear him singing. Herb Alpert had a hit with “This Guy’s in Love with You,” yet many heard the sky’s in love with you. Heard it through the grapevine? Marvin Gaye or Creedence Clearwater? Even Steve Urkel was known to say “did I do that?” And as Agent Mulder seeks the truth, “the truth is out there,” Scully rolls her eyes, and we have hit show. Or like the prologue to the hit series SOAP, “confused? You won’t be after watching this episode...” Do inquiring minds really want to know? OK, repeat it back to me. OOPS.

So being misquoted is not a new phenomena. It has been going on for years. Centuries actually, and we find it occurring in the oldest book of the Bible, Job. A story that so many theologians, pastors, teachers, and comedians have misunderstood for years. To start with, God has everything under His control. He saw Satan and asked Him if he would consider His servant Job? Satan tried to twist things, and of course the rest is history. But perhaps the most oft quoted person in the story is Mrs. Job, whose single line has brought much wrath upon her for years. Great teachers lambaste her, but very few have tried to see it from her viewpoint. And then they forget her husband’s response. Misquoting him of course. Here’s the scene, Job has been afflicted with boils, sickness, and has lost all his wealth. He was rumored to be among the richest men at the time. His children have died, and he finds himself hurting, and alone. Then his wife enters the room. Seeing him in distress, she utters her famous quote, “give up your integrity, curse God, and die.” Ever feel like that-don’t. But his answer is often forgotten, or again misquoted. He simply told her you sound “like” a foolish woman,” he never accused her of being foolish. He saw her within her situation, for she had lost everything he did, including her children. Would you talk to a widow that way? But he saw through her condition, and how she was acting out of character in her distress. And loved her through it, despite his own misery. A precursor to the words of Jesus who said “greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another.” He simply put her first, and cared for her despite his condition!

Last year when I was life flighted and had open heart surgery, my wife Theresa had to deal with many things. Among them her own emotions, and the fact her husband was dying, and could be dead. But I find that her greater love for me kept me going. I never knew how much she really loved me until the worse part of our vows revealed itself. We all want the better and healthy part of the vows, she was faced with the worst, and death, with unhealthy included. And in my situation, I love her even more. She was truly the brave one through this, I had a staff of doctors and nurses to attend me. She had to run a household, find transportation, resources, a place to live, and deal with Andrew having shoulder surgery-all from 1000 miles from home. Now what was your problem? Do you think she might have some insight to your situation? But she trusted God, and the end result was miracle after miracle. And just like God restored Job everything twice as much, He has rewarded us as such. I don’t get it, but love doesn’t demand of itself, so either should you. Let god be God, it is hard enough to be me sometimes, even in good situations.

Ragland T. Tiger once gave advice to his friends, “take it on the lam Lefty before the chicken potters out.” Leave before it gets worse, or worse yet, someone tries to help and console you, understanding of course. So take my friend Bruce’s advice, and take a fast right turn, turn to God. This guy Jesus is in love with you. So let Him. And reconsider Mrs. Job next time someone tries to help, or you are misquoted. God knows, and will restore you-or even better. Don’t act foolishly, or even be accused of being a fool. My wife had to make many decisions without me by herself, and did a great job. Love will do that to you. Let all your decisions be based on love, no one misunderstands that. Put others ahead of you, seek Jesus first, and watch as He adds everything else. And to all the Mrs. Jobs out there, you had a great husband, who loved you dearly. Make no mistake about that! Wives, and husbands, we should all be so fortunate. I know I am.

Having a bad day? Like God said, “consider my servant Job.” Now put your name in there. Maybe God is bragging on you, maybe for others to see Him in the situation. What you see depends on who you are looking at. Look to Jesus. For where sin abounds, grace abounds even more. Can I hear an AMEN to that?

And with apologies to the Beach Boys, “she’ll have fun, fun, fun till her daddy takes her t-shirt away, or was it tuba?

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com