the story of reindeer nose

It seems every year as fewer people want to recognize Christmas, as schools and towns now have Winter Holidays, that people seem to be decorating more and earlier for Christmas every year.  Go figure that one out, I can’t.  But even though it is still two weeks away from Thanksgiving, and I am already sick of seeing Black Friday ads, where millions of self absorbed will go and buy things early for Christmas gifts, maybe it isn’t too early to share a Christmas story.  One that warms my heart, and won’t cost you a thing.  So sit back and enjoy.

My Grandpa was a great man, to me the stereotypical grandfather.  He knew all about the trees and animals in the woods when we hiked.  He could fix anything, and had patience to do it when no else had.  He also loved trains, as the basement was filled with a track set up, and many Friday nights after dinner were spent there until it was time for bed...and way beyond, such are the fond memories of Grandpa.  But being born in 1905, he was of a generation that was pre car,pre world wars, and pre going to Walmart to replace things that had broken.  Grandpa fixed things, and much of his basement work shop, the old coal cellar, was a treasure trove of works in progress, of things waiting to be fixed.  And intermixed with the parts from other things to do it.  Things didn’t get thrown out, or even recycled as they are today.  They were repaired, and reused until literally they fell apart, postponing the inevitable as long as possible.  Which brings us to today’s Christmas story.  Grandpa had created Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer from a concrete deer, much like you saw in many yards back east.  Remember the black men holding the lantern that graced many homes, those type.  But he had turned the baby deer into Rudolph by attaching a red lite bulb from some old Christmas lights, and when turned on, you had Rudolph with his nose so bright.  A holiday tradition for all who passed by their from porch, and many kids came to believe reindeer could actually fly by this example-it made Rudolph come alive.  Which he had for many years to us...and so when my older son Christopher was born, we told him the story, and he wanted to see Rudolph, or Reindeer Nose as he called him.  And his first Christmas there at age 2 was to be exciting, except for one thing, Rudolph had gotten old and fallen apart, and had to be put away.  Only my Grandpa knew he wasn’t thrown away.  And it was sad when we asked Grandpa if Rudolph was fixed and he told us no, but held back the news from Christopher.  All the talk was of Reindeer Nose, and going to Great Grandpa’s house to see him.  Why burst his bubble?  But true to form, Grandpa and his workshop were at work, unbeknownst to us.  He had rebuilt Rudolph, filling in the cracks and recementing him so he could stand again.  His nose had long since vanished, but another set of tree lights gave his nose life.  It had taken months for him to repair Rudolph, all without saying a word.  And so as we went to their house that Christmas, Reindeer Nose was still the focal point, but still hadn’t told Christopher he wasn’t there anymore.  So as we got out of the car, and he ran to see his great grandparents, all he wanted was to see Rudolph-and to all our surprise, there was Rudolph-red nose and all, just like he had been for years passed.  As Christopher hugged him, Grandpa beamed at his first great grandson, he had put hours of work into Rudolph, and even though Rudy was a bit wobbly, it was Christmas and Reindeer Nose made it complete.  He later explained how this would be Rudy’s last Christmas, he was literally falling apart, and we explained the next year how Rudy went to visit other kids, and Christopher thought it a good idea.  But he had met Reindeer Nose, red nose and all lighting up the night, all because a loving Grandpa was in no way going to disappoint Christopher.  Oh to be that 2 year old again, or to spend another day Christmas with Grandpa, or another Friday night playing with the trains.  And so that is my early Christmas story for you...a better gift than any Black Friday deal, and made with the love that Jesus would have for the season.

But as my Grandpa was a quiet man, when I got saved, we talked once about baptism.  His simple statement told me more about his life in Christ, than many sermons could have.  “Something happens when you are under the water, you come out different than you went in.”  A simple statement that sermons could be preached on, but one sentence saying it all.  And maybe that is why Rudolph was so important to him that year, he was able to show the love for his family in a way no big presents could, and yes, we got lots of them too.  But it is the things made from the heart we remember, and even though Rudolph is just a children’s story, to these children that Christmas it showed the love of Jesus. And knowing I will see Grandpa in heaven again just adds to the  excitement of going.  So I will leave you with some good advice he once ended a letter to me with, when I had first moved to New Mexico.  His advice was a simple and loving as the man himself, “be good to yourself and others.”  Maybe the gospel in 5 easy words, love God and your neighbor, as he did. 

Somewhere out there among the crowds waiting to get a good deal, is the best deal ever-Jesus Christ.  No Christmas without him, no reason to give gifts, but using His example of the greatest gift, should cause us to tell others.  A gift from the heart, a promise made and fulfilled, just like my Grandpa and Rudy.  The best gift ever...a story worth telling over again and again.  The story of Jesus.  And the story of a loving man fixing something that was broken and should have been thrown away.  Maybe that Rudolph represented us before Christ, something broken and unfixable, but with a little love made whole again.  The gospel of Jesus Christ, and we were all Rudy.

“Olive the other Reindeer,” could be the rest of us, a play on words, all of the other reindeer.  They used to laugh and call Him names, but Rudolph saved the night and that Christmas for my son.  Let Jesus do the same for you.  And to all a good night...oh how the others loved Him.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

the $20 solution or getting your 80 cents worth

We were about 10 years old when Barry and I were walking back from a morning spent in the EJ Korvettes toy department.  It was huge, but we knew every aisle, and had spent precious time making wish lists if we ever had money.  But with only 25 cents between us, and hungry, we decided to stop at Snuffy, Jr.’s and get some of their killer glazed donuts.  Called killer because it was rumored they had actually killed someone.  Now at 5 cents each, or 25 cents for a half dozen, we were prepared to spend all our money, when standing in line we noticed a 20 dollar bill on the ground.  We had never seen one before, but was pretty sure this was what they looked like, and quickly picked it up, but felt guilty because it wasn’t ours.  So we walked to the cashier and told her what we had found.  It turned out to belong to the woman ahead of us in line, who was so grateful she bought us a dozen donuts, and we left feeling pretty good-until we ate the dozen, and still had our 25 cents.  Which we quickly bought two Cokes out of the machine at the Esso station next door with, and still had a nickel left after all the excitement.  Our first real lesson in economics, and also in honesty.  We had heard that crime doesn’t pay, but learned that day that honesty does.  A lesson we would have repeated to us over the years.

The other day a strange thing happened to me when I checked out, the cashier actually counted out the change, and handed me the coins first so they wouldn’t slide out of my hand.  I was further in shock when I thanked her, and she said, “you’re welcome.”  And other memories were stirred of values, and money, courtesy, and doing the right thing.  Now my career at Sears taught me many things, and my first real lesson was on a hot Saturday afternoon.  Security was holding a man who had walked out of the store with a portable air conditioner without paying.  He claimed the salesman had told them they were truly portable, and if he could carry it out of the store, he would give it to him free.  So he did, and when the salesman was questioned confessed he had, and the store gave the man the AC unit-no charge, and apologized for the inconvenience.  We soon wanted to go and get our own.... a mistake I am sure they would never repeat.

Customer service was always manned by a junior manager, and a new one, Al was on call that night.  As we walked through on our 15 minute break that always lasted 45 minutes, a man and his son were explaining to Al how their toboggan was defective.  It took both father and son to hold all the pieces, as it had hit a tree, and they wanted their money back.  Al took one look at it, smiled and gave them their money back-we were shocked as trees now were a reason for defects, but again Sears stepped up, and the man left with his son, sure to return again...

The catalog department was all a buzz because a woman had tried to return 80 cents she was given too much in change.  She had told the cashier about it, and wanted to return it, to be honest, yet was refused.  Too much paperwork involved, they already had to account or the missing 80 cents, and didn’t want to account for being 80 cents over, so she was told to keep it and she did.  Only when I got home that night, did my mother wonder how Sears could make any money giving away 80 cents so carelessly, and then I knew my mother was the source of the story.  Another lesson learned in honesty, and values.  A lesson in the value of the dollar, even if it was only 80 cents.

So when I rode home from eating 99 cents fish tacos, and not sure if I had given the cashier a 20 or a 10, she had given me $10 change, I wrestled with it.  And the next Friday rode to Bird Rock again and ordering my usual three, told the same girl that I think they had given me too much change last Friday, and I wanted to return the $10.  To my surprise she took it, explaining how they had come up $10 short that night, and wondered if someone was stealing, and they were grateful I was so honest.  And I felt good having done the right thing, even though $10 to an unemployed man was a fortune.  I had learned a more valuable lesson, and done the right thing.  I could have used that money, but realized I didn’t want to sell my soul, my reputation, and couldn’t live with myself for keeping $10 I knew wasn’t mine.  Only $10 you say, who would notice that today?  I ‘m glad I did, and so were they, what price would you sell your soul for?

Zacheus was a tax collector in the times of Jesus.  Tax collectors were at best dishonest, and never would have given back, but would have certainly overcharged.  Until one day, when he was in a tree, as Jesus was approaching, was called to and told he was to have Jesus for dinner that night...by Jesus.  Now this really upset the crowd, “look this man eats with sinners.”  And Zacheus was certainly recognized as one.  But in response Zac replied I am a sinner, and will give back two times what I have taken from the poor, and to those I overcharged-4 times!  All over one invite to dinner, by Jesus. His heart had been changed by a simple confrontation, more of a conversation.  And Jesus tells the crowd “today salvation has come tot this man, for the Son of Man has come to seek and save the lost.”  No altar call, no four spiritual laws, no Romans Road, no catechism.  Just Jesus.  And His appearance changed the man’s heart, giving him a whole new value system.  For if the love of money is the root of all evil, this man found salvation from sin in Jesus, something no amount of money could purchase.  He learned true value that afternoon, while stuck in a tree.  Even willing to repay.  He had heard about Jesus, and wanted to see what it was all about...and got more than he bargained for.  He had finally done the right thing...and his reward was salvation.

So many times I have been tempted, and tried to do the right thing.  But greed or the fact that no one is watching will further tempt.  Zac had a great view from up in the tree, he could see what was going on.  And we sometimes forget God can see all that is going on from above.  But as he met Jesus, his heart was changed, and he repented.  He was Barry and I at Snuffy’s, he was my mother taking back the change, and he was Al giving back money on a damaged tobaggan.  But in each case a decision was made of to do the right thing, even if it cost something.  And it cost Jesus everything...eventually being sold out for 30 pieces of silver, the price of a slave.  What is your breaking point?  What amount tempts you so much you will deny Christ and do the wrong thing?  We were all once Zacheus looking for something, but like Zac found out that something was really a someone.  And He has changed our lives.  As the old saying goes dollar to donuts, can we say we will be found innocent on judgment day?  There is an audience waiting to testify against us, but only in Christ will we be found innocent-as there is no evidence available.  For two little kids it was donuts, an overheated man an air conditioner, and a father and son a sled.  To my mother it was 80 cents-only 80 cents?  What price is your salvation worth?  What do you hold valuable and hold onto?  Come down from your tree and meet Jesus today.  Let the change in you be counted to everyone who is looking, and those who are listening.  Today you will tested, tried in the court of public opinion...what truth will you stand on?  Is it worth fish tacos, donuts, or 80 cents to let your witness deny Jesus?  Or will you let your light shine?  What is valuable to you will rise up when tested.  Jim Elliot once said “he is no fool who gives away what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.”  Zac found that out that day from a tree.  Where you learn it is up to you.  Right now is a great time...and I’ll bring the donuts.  And no, you can’t borrow my sled.  Call it getting your 80 cents worth.  What are you holding onto that you can’t afford to lose?  Come for dinner stay for life.  Fish tacos anyone?

love with compassion,

MIke

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

money can't buy happiness, but it can buy chocolate which is the same thing

Although money cannot buy happiness, it has been said that it can buy chocolate, which is the same thing, and that is just as good.  So maybe we really just need more chocolate and that would make our world a better place.  Anyone with me?  Good.  but then I wonder what happens when the chocolate runs out, does the happiness go with it?  You see for some it is chocolate, for some drugs and alcohol, and for some it is motorcycles.  Anything that can take us out of a present misery and deliver us from it-but sadly happiness is based upon emotions, and many times mine let me down, or only make things worse.  Ever said something you wished you hadn’t in the heat of an argument, winning the battle, but losing the war?  You are not alone, and if you haven’t, you will-so be warned.  It seems that although the Constitution promises us the pursuit of happiness, it doesn’t guarantee it-only the chase.  And for some the chase is the happiness, I know men who only love to build things, to initiate them, but never see them through to completion.  They thrive on in process, and the promise of another project, never fully enjoying to see the project complete.  Which leaves it open to others who thrive on completing or correcting other’s mistakes.....and the world continues to go round and round.  As I watched in meetings, there were some who had good ideas, but had no application experience.  And there were others who were taskmasters, give them a list and it would be done, never straying from it, thank you sir, can I have another?  And then there are those who had to manage all those involved and make it all come together-each with a special talent, each happy in their situation, but who would be miserable if called to switch positions.

When I was as service advisor, I then became a service manager, and hated it.  The title was nice, but I was out of place, and given responsibility, but little authority.  Been there, done that.  So I went back to service advisor and thrived, and enjoyed it, and was able to buy Theresa more chocolate than ever before.  And we were very happy, but the job took a toll, the more the pay, the more hours required, and the higher the stress level.  Cracks began to show that weren’t evident at first, and soon I was relieved to go to another job.  Same thing, but less stress, less money, but more happiness-aka more chocolate.  It seems we all have a certain area we prosper in, some find it early, some never do.  Some listen to God, some go out on their own.  Some see the promise, some still wonder what it is.  And so it has always been...just ask Abram and Sarai.  The Father of the Jewish people, a champion of faith.  Did he ever have enough chocolate?

We all know the story of how God told them they would have a son and that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars.  A promise from God, and they believed it. But when it didn’t happen, and Sarai advised him to help out God, by sleeping with Hagar, he did and had a son Ismael.  To some a promise complete, but in reality a curse, for the same God who gives you a promise, should be the only one to fulfill it-not you and your devices.  Yet we often run off with the promise, and try to fulfill it ourselves, and like Abe and Sara, suffer the consequences.  For God promised it would be in His line, and from Him, not without Him.  He didn’t ask for their help, and they got a curse instead.  And a home divided when Isaac couldn’t live with Ismael anymore, and Ismael was forced out, and the battle continues today.  Mostly because of Sarai’s impatience, and of Abe’s decision to go along with it.  If only they had waited, after all it was only about another 13 years, what would you have done?

Philippians tells us that He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it.  When Jesus came into your life, that good work began, even though it had been being prepared for years.  But many use it to better themselves, Jesus as the new way to grow  business, make more money, and buy more chocolate.  And often times it will work, for awhile, until the promise comes along like Isaac did.  And then we wish we had waited, but fortunately our God forgives-and we can have chocolate again.  Except this time it has a different flavor, it has a different consistency, and we look at the chocolate differently.  It isn’t our first desire anymore, but pleasing God is, and we find when we seek Him first, then all other things, including chocolate are added.  And the chocolate takes on a new flavor, it tastes fresh, and we are thankful for it, not lusting after it. When chocolate is our only desire, we cannot get enough, when God is our desire, we will always have an abundance.

Do not let you testimony be one of “if only I had waited.”  Abram had two sons, but had to choose one over another, one was promised, the other was a consequence of trying to do it himself.  We are all guilty of it, so let me ask you, just how much chocolate do you want?  Do you need?  It comes in more than Hershey bars, and until God delivers it, you never know how good it tastes in other things.  Life is also like that, until we let God guide us, we never know how much joy and happiness we can have, but we sure can find out all about the suffering.  So let go, and let God...as the saying goes.

Today He knows the path you need to be on, and also the one you will choose.  And no matter the choice, sticks with you. The chocolate never runs out.  It is everywhere, and when you have eaten your fill, He still promises more.  Overflowing mercies, happiness, and joy.  His presence-but only if you let Him.  And His promises extend far beyond chocolate-imagine what He can do for your family, finances, career, and motorcycle?  Imagine a chocolate vacation, and then trust God.  I have been to Hershey, Pa. many times, the place reeks of chocolate.  I have taken the tour, but until I taste the chocolate, the trip isn’t complete.  Complete the tour today, trust Jesus in whatever you need, wait and see, you’ll know when to move, and watch as chocolate turns to happiness, which turns to joy in ways you never imagined.  Just think, if Sara hadn’t advised Abe where we would all be today?  They were only a Hershey bar away-how close are you?  You will visit the land of Hershey many times, but only in Christ will you have sweet day.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

 

the poor will always be among us

The minute it rains here in So Cal, which is about how long the average rainfall lasts, the number of those that come out and declare how much they love rain is overwhelming.  Or really underwhelming, so I suggest “why don’t you move to Portland, it rains all the time?” Which usually is returned by a facial expression, which  after 24 hours of said love of precipitation, is turned to “when is the sun coming back?”  Which readily identifies them as a native of So Cal.  Same thing with the cooler fall weather, “I love the cold,” read as 55-60 degrees, so “why don’t you move to Alaska?”  Which by the time it hits the 70’s by noon, all vestiges of love of the cold are gone....welcome to the hard life of So Cal weather.

So riding in the mountains around Idyllwild yesterday, we had fall weather, mid 60’s, and it felt great, but the 82 in Banning felt better.  No threat of moving, causing me to be reminded of why I live here-great weather for year around riding. But having lived where it got up to –10 sometimes, and where the car would regularly freeze to the road, I have been in cold temps, an although I miss the mountains sometimes, have no  plans to move back...and as far as the rain, every year on Torches we would look for the perfect small town that doesn’t have winter, and found we already lived there, San Diego.  Where the weatherman should have the easiest job, just look out the window and say sunny and warm.  How could they screw that up, you ask?  Watch tonight and see, then you’ll get it.  But that doesn’t mean that you cannot be cold, even in San Diego, if you live on the streets.

Working with those who help the homeless, this time of year when you put on your flannel sheets, or an extra blanket, some still build fires this early, those on the street get cold.  And right now the biggest demand is for blankets, jackets, and shoes.  Things we take for granted, but that can make a person’s existence, their daily survival that much better.  Imagine not being tucked into your warm bed, but laying under some cardboard, cold, hard ground under you, and maybe a bag of trash as a pillow.  “I’m tough, I camp,” you say, but then add the danger of having your few belongings robbed by another, or hassled by the cops and all your possessions confiscated...different story.  And no smell of bacon and eggs on the campfire, the sun comes up and you try to find a place that give out free meals, or dig through the trash-again, or go begging.  One day the same as the next, the same as the one before...just trying to survive...and repeat every night, anyone willing to change places?

A few years ago we started working with the homeless, and find out many times they are just like us, except for a bad decision.  No family, friends, or job to rescue them, they are out on the street.  And many don’t wish to deal with them, although one gracious woman telling me after coming out of Anthony’s and telling about her great fish dinner, told me of her compassion for the homeless, “ I hugged him and told him ‘God bless you,” what a humanitarian.  But many refuse to get the fact that except for the grace of God, go I.  Safe in the thought that that could never happen to me....until it does.

Jesus made many profound statements, but one that takes no faith to believe is He said “the poor will always be among us.”  Taken on many levels, it can mean the broken hearted, desperate, the broke, or those who have nothing. And they are everywhere.  And are often greeted with crude words like “why don’t you get a job?”  Well why don’t you hire them?  Remember how hard it was for you, and you had an address, phone number, references, clean clothes, and a resume.  What do the homeless use for a return phone number?  Where do they shower and shave?  Hmmm, never thought of it like that.

So Jesus has created the church to help them, to feed them, clothe them, provide shelter, and guidance.  But many times are just overwhelmed, or unprepared, or even don’t want to help-“when they get cleaned up, then they can attend here.”  All in the name of Jesus.  And when they failed, the government moved in with various welfare programs, and today it is out of hand, food stamps are epidemic and misused.  I used to watch them get a $100 check and cash it early at the Safeway in Durango, before they had any other food stamps for change, getting cash.  Then go next store to the liquor store and buy booze.   But I have also seen a mother try to feed her family on that same $100, and come up short.  And I have been there, when one time we received a $20 gift, and went crazy at the grocery store buying potatoes and hot dogs, and having change back-God multiplied it.  So today I am asking you for two things-both based on compassion, and the love of Jesus.  Consider donating clothes and food to the ministries that provide these services.  We have a food bank at Maranatha, and all clothes go to Such as I Have where we give the clothes away free.  We need blankets, backpacks, socks, jackets, and sweaters, and shoes.  Every week, as they get used and thrown away...no laundramats for the homeless either.  Food is stuff that can be eaten without heating, snack type stuff.  And soft foods, as many have few or no teeth, it has to be gummed before it can be swallowed.  And ask your pastor, and if you don’t do these things yet, start a drive to do them.  Feed the poor, clothe them, and show them the love of Jesus in action.  They will listen to what you say, when they see how much you care. 

I hear it’s going to be cold tonight again, the 50’s, do you have your winter sheets on yet?  Fireplace ready to go?  Good, they are blessings from God, now go bless those as you have been blessed.  It is almost Thanksgiving, show how much you are thankful by how much you can give...and even more.  Greater love has no man than to lay down his life for another, or to clothe, feed, and provide shelter for them.  In giving you will tell us more about Jesus in your life than you may want us to know.  So bring things, but more importantly bring yourself.  Spend some time reading to some homeless kids-they don’t get to go to school.  Provide transportation as needed, serve through the church.  But get out and do something-Jesus also tells the first shall be last, and the last shall be first.  You never know who your heavenly neighbor will be, how would you like to live next to you?  Give until it hurts, then give some more.  The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few..be a worker and reap great benefits from a Father in heaven who is watching.  Oh, and by the way-bikers can become homeless too.  Poverty knows no boundaries, what boundaries are holding you back?  Sleep well-if you can.
love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

stop dreaming, start riding

As I stood watching and listening, this couple whose kids were now out of the house, were looking to start riding.  But either they weren’t asking the right questions, or the salesman, young enough to be their kid, didn’t have the right answers.  They were looking to get involved in motorcycling, he was trying to sell them a bike.  They were interested in going places, he was intent upon telling them the difference between blue and gray was a model year.  I left before I got frustrated for both of them, having seen the scenario before.  Which caused me to reflect on my own life, for it is 38 years ago this week, I was a young 21 year old getting on his motorcycle and heading west to begin a new life.  I was riding to where I had never been, to live with a man I had just met, and serve a God I knew even less about.  And so as I approach Thanksgiving, it reminds me how thankful I am that the decision I made was the right one.  I thought back to my first job in motorcycling, selling BMW, Triumph, and Suzuki.  How the owner, David was into motorcycling, and motorcycles, and one time when a man was looking to travel, had me talk to him.  I was the least experienced salesman, but the most experienced rider at age 21.  I had seen and done things no brochure or sales talk could convey, I had ridden coast to coast, and knew what it was like.  Riding was a passion, and rather than adapt riding to my life, I adapted life to my riding.  Looking back I wish I had intervened with this couple, they were looking for what I have, but I am convinced they will buy a bike, just not there, and go out and enjoy riding together.

I used to marvel at how people can’t understand how Theresa and I ride so much.  But riding and traveling are passions of ours, and we are glad to be part of a brotherhood of those who ride, and of those who ride together.  From our first night, until later this morning, we have done so much together, so much based on riding.  Motorcycling is part of our life, and we have adapted to it, rather than trying to make it fit into our life.  We picked motorcycling as our focal point, include our other activities in it, rather than trying to make our bikes fit into our lives.  We ride from the heart, and many questions are answered by our life experiences, as opposed to others excuses.  We stopped dreaming, and started living-and riding like the ad says.  Instead of still seeking, we have found, and that has made all the difference.

While talking the other night with a man in church, he was telling me about all the various Christian books he is reading, and how he is trying to incorporate Jesus into his daily life more.  More at church, more at Men’s Ministry, more at home, and more at work.  He listens to KWVE, knows all the teachers, takes copious notes at church, and attends Wednesday night services.  But he doesn’t get it.  He hasn’t found it yet.  Yes, He is saved, just not cashing in on all Jesus has for him.  He is going about it all wrong.  True, these things are not bad, in fact they are good additions to walking a Christian walk, but he has missed the point.  He has the wrong answer to the right question, but still goes on looking, not knowing he has already found all he needs in Jesus.  But instead of trying to include Jesus in the things of his life, he needs to include those things of his life in Jesus.  He is going about it backwards, and like the couple wanting to ride together, but being sold a bike, he needs to be involved in Jesus, then all the other things will be added to his life.  Jesus needs to be the head, He adds life, not the other way around.  He is close, but until Jesus becomes his true passion, something will always be lacking.  And no amount of bible lessons, teaching, note taking, or fellowship will make a difference until he builds his life around Jesus.  Then Jesus will become part of work, home, church, and his family.  Until that happens, we are the focal point of life, trying to add Jesus where we can, when we have it all backwards.  Seek ye first, it is written, then all these things will be added unto you.  So where are you in Christ, and better yet, where is Christ in you?

I watch as some riders have all the skills, and taken the MSF course, a good thing.  And when others hear of our riding stories, and want to get involved, I tell them take the course first-see if you really want to ride.  Then buy a bike, and get involved.  But with no passion, you will only buy a bike, and miss out on the brotherhood found in the world of motorcycling.  Owning a bike doesn’t make you a rider, just as sitting in church doesn’t make you a pew.  You will find yourself wanting to ride, and making plans around weekend trips, and going places, with the one you love.  Jesus and you can have the same type of relationship.  Check Him out, make the decision by taking the course, being saved.  You will find yourself wanting to go to church, wanting to do Bible studies, and tuning your radio to KWVE.  You will want to do things based on your passion for Him, and soon you will be living a life with the one you love-Jesus.  And then, all other things will be added unto you.  Maybe that is what the couple meant to ask, but instead were being sold a bike.  They were looking for a life in motorcycling, but just being offered a ride.  Where is Jesus in your daily routine?  Still trying to figure out how to take Him to work?  Share Him at home?  Make a impression at men’s study?  Maybe it is as simple as when Pastor Doug and I were talking.  He had just returned from Israel, again, and was telling the stories.   And I was fascinated by them.  Then at Thursday Bible study he brought some pictures, cool.  But when I saw him in the pictures, he had really been there, then the whole story meant something.  He was living it, not just telling about it, he was relating it.  It was personal, He had been there, and had the photos to prove it.  And it answered many questions I had never asked or knew to ask.  And now I have a focal point to Israel....just like I know Jesus, and have a focal point with God.

“Stop dreaming, and start riding...today.” the ad says.  If it works with motorcycles, it can work with God, or vice versa.  Stop seeking, and start finding.  He is there waiting for you, to add life to your day, not trying to find ways to add Him to your life.  38 years ago I stopped dreaming, and started living in Christ.  Doing things not found in any textbook, or on any radio station.  I found it to be very personal with Jesus.  I found that the faith I didn’t know I had at 21, 38 years later has taken me places in Jesus, that if I had tried to incorporate Him would never had happened.  He led, somehow I mange to keep up.  He was, and is the center of my life.  He is why I ride, why I live, and why I look forward to every day.  Start with Jesus, if I hadn’t I still would be riding, but never would have gone the places I have.  Pick up your cross and follow Him today...for me my cross was a throttle hand that sought after life and all it had to offer, only found in Christ. The right answer to all your questions.  How interested in Jesus you are will show how far you will go....some sit on bikes in a showroom, I sit on a bike on the road.  Some seek, I have found.  And Jesus has made the difference.  How about you?  That picture in the brochure could be of you!

love with compassion,

MIke

matthew25biker.blogspot.com

not so famous roads

I can remember when I-78 in New Jersey was started, and the excitement when it was partially completed.  Wow-traveling at speeds of 60mph uninterrupted, and getting to Grandma’s 15 minutes sooner.  No more of my Dad creeping down Jugtown Mountain, now we cruised through the mountain cuts easily.  We were to arrive in Phillipsburg quicker, only to have to take old US 22 the rest of the way, but oh the things we had seen.  It was like a ride in the country, as no roadside business existed, and we saw the backside of farms we had seen from the old road.  And it was 2 or 3 lanes wide in places-you could pass, or as in our case get passed.  And then when we got our licenses, a great place to blow out the carbon as we used to do, hitting high speeds.  But having ridden that same road a few years ago, it now was different.  It was completed, and where once we had to get off and go through towns, now you could even go all the way through to Pennsylvania on the new road.  No more stopping before going up College Hill, no more crossing and eating at Jimmy’ Hot dogs, and now the speed traps had found their way to the Interstates.  A road that once had promised and delivered so much had now just become another old road, just a newer style.  And as much as has been written about Route 22, Jean Shepherd, he of A Christmas Story fame, once did a great documentary on Route 22, and how it once mirrored America.  And for the most part I miss the old road, as I like to see the businesses and life along it, and stop when I want to eat instead of waiting for the next exit filled with franchised food outlets.  Note I didn’t call them restaurants, or even diners-they’re gone too.  But what makes a road memorable?  What is it that makes us want to go back instead of ahead further?  Have you ever heard a song about any Interstate or freeway?  So I  looked, and there aren’t any, just some obscure lyrics leaning more towards the highway then the freeway.  So have we come so far that we have nothing to sing about?  Where is the romance of I-40?  Does anyone get there kicks on I-66?  Did you even know there was one?  Found one in Virginia, that I had bypassed on a previous ride, but still no songs about the Interstate Highway System, or the freeways.  I can be sure that James Taylor didn’t mean the congestion on I-95 when he sang “take to the highway.”

But yet we travel many roads that are forgettable.  Some everyday, some that we get on and off of without a second thought, substituting exit numbers for names of roads.  I call them not so famous roads, and until something eventful happens on them, they remain anonymous in our memories.  Take Stemmons Freeway in Dallas, just a commute for some, but made famous as we all see the sign when JFK is shot.  Maybe infamous in more accurate.  US 550 in Colorado is better known as the Million Dollar Highway, cheap by today’s standards, but what a ride.  A biker’s dream is riding the Dragon, but how many have ridden the Snake, more curves, less people, and more views.  Dylan sang about Highway 61, but having travelled it, the heritage is rich, and beats again any freeway that bypassed it.  Having gotten my kicks, and gotten kicked off of Route 66 I can tell you that before it became folklore, it was just another old road, now famous.  I wonder if the Joad family thought it romantic to travel to California on it?  And if you ever have driven down Santa Monica Blvd., old 66, maybe you can see why it is easier to take the freeway.  Not all areas are as safe as remembered in song. 

And yet some roads just serve their purpose, getting you there without incident, and that is what is memorable about them.  Nothing happened, and that was a good thing.  But take one, a road once referred to 2000 years ago as Bloody Pass.  Could have been a great biker hang out.  But this treacherous road from Jericho to Jerusalem was the basis for a great parable, and for lending its name to many hospitals today-the Good Samaritan.  Much has been written about it, and taught, but how many times do we travel on a road like this, treacherous, but the only way to get there?  Where was the freeway in Jesus’ time to combat this?  And where are these roads today?

Certain characters stand out in this story, but little reference is given to the innkeeper who gave him solace, and took care of this poor victim until the good Samaritan returned.  He was a man of character, but also maybe just an innkeeper, knowing he would get paid when the man returned.  But maybe he was a traveller too, and would want extended to him the same courtesies as the stranger.  Maybe he had been jumped once, or abused, or taken hostage, and had compassion shown to him.  A lot of maybes-which one can you relate to?  Many times I have been shown favor by innkeepers, letting me park my bike under a porch, or even take it into my motel room.  One night in a storm, the motel manager in Verde Valley even called the highway patrol when I was late while riding.   Another time the manager in Zanesville gave me a room for half price because I was on a motorcycle.  So there are still any good Samaritans out there when you need them.  But can you be called a good Samaritan?

The Samaritans were hated by the Jews, which may be why the innkeeper is not mentioned by name.  But even though hated he showed mercy to one who may have hated him.  The man showed grace and mercy, do we do that to our enemies?  Do we take a bad situation and make it worse by our prejudices?  Is the only memories of some roads travelled the yuks we met along the way?  How you answer tells a lot about where Jesus is in your life.  We were all once hated Samaritans at one time, except God loved us, so much He sent Jesus.  As we go with Jesus do we greet any Samaritans?  Or do we even try, or worse yet, cross over as the priest and Levite did?  Do we go into impure situations and remain pure because of who we are in Christ?  Do we welcome the stranger, or just try to pass him off to another.  Probably the saddest statement I ever heard about a church was being told I was the only one there caring about the poor.  Where is that pastor today?  What kind of innkeeper was he to his flock?

When a man asked me about grace, I told him to go and love someone unlovable.  Be nice to them, listen to them, become their friend.  Just like Jesus did for you.  For in your travels it is impossible to stay off certain roads, so take Jesus along.  Suddenly the right road may become the wrong road, but Jesus is still with you.  He is that innkeeper who will give you what you need, and He knows from His first night experience on earth.  We are all innkeepers of a sort, how we welcome others shows the love of Jesus.  Make a reservation in heaven with Him today...rooms are going quick, but still available.  And when the road gets rough, you probably are on the right road.  Making a testimony, and giving the road a new meaning.  Just like Jesus did for you...so many roads, so little time, but just enough Jesus to get you home safely.   There is no freeway to heaven, but it is toll free.  Paid in full at the cross-where all good roads start and end.  No wonder Jesus spent His life on the road, He was looking out for us.  And certain innkeepers to follow in His name.  Any road with Jesus...He is the light that was left on for you.

love with compassion,

Mike

matthew25biker.blogspot.com