Dear Fellow ABATE Members,

A few times, over the past years, it has been asked of us, "What does Christianity have to do with motorcycling?"

You must admit, that all of us (at least, most of us) as bikers, are very passionate about things and issues, in which we are involved, believe in, think about, and have had experiences with.  There are very few bikers that we have ever talked with that are "gray" on any issue and, most are ready to defend what they believe (this is one of the reasons we like associating with other bikers). Our preferences are reflected in the types of motorcycling organizations we belong to. They are reflected in the paint schemes on our bikes.  They are reflected in the logos and design of the clothing we wear. They are reflected in our tattoos. They are reflected in the types of events that we participate in and help with. Some of these passions are love of Country, veteran’s issues, law enforcement, lifestyles, political issues, and with whom we associate.  We are very passionate about our bikes and riding.  As such, it is very difficult to separate riding bikes and what we are all about. Motorcycling is not just motorcycling. It is a part of our lives.

Christian bikers are no exception. Most of us really love motorcycling. Many of us see everything we have as belonging to God, including the bikes.  We look at the bike as a blessing that we need to be good stewards of. What we see, when we ride, is God's creation. For a Christian biker, there is no better way to experience God's creation than from the seat of a motorcycle!  And, even better is the fact that we live in Southwest Florida! There may be only a few days a year that we cannot ride! Bikers will listen to other bikers.  We have our language when it comes to motorcycles.  And, we just can't help sharing the love of motorcycling, our love of God and, His creation with YOU!

A Christian biker that attends many of the fund raising events, sees other bikers giving very generously without reservation and, from the bottom of their hearts (this is another reason we like associating with other bikers).  This easily reminds Christian bikers of God's giving of His Son, without reservation, to bring us to salvation. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."  John 3:16

Perhaps you have seen some of the t-shirts about Jesus…. that if motorcycles existed at the time He was a man on earth, He probably would have been a biker and could easily relate to us because (this is taken from my t-shirt), "….the government did not like Him; His friends were few; and He hung around people like you and me, not the goody-two-shoes. If Jesus were on this earth in the flesh, He would be next to you on His bike telling you He loves you…enough to die for you."

Blessings!

Tom and Kathy Provenzano

PS.  If we can be of spiritual help, please email us with your phone number: tprovenz@comcast.net or call: 239-267-8641