“If Satan rode into town he’d be on a Harley. But so would Jesus.” – billboard ad for Harley-Davidson
Pastor Marty Edwards’ Heritage Softail had a flat tire, so he called his local Harley-Davidson dealership to come and pick it up for repair.
The dealership sent young Michael Butters with a truck to pick up the bike. As the two men rode back to the dealership, Marty felt led to speak to Michael about Jesus. However, he shied away and didn’t bring it up.
One week later, Michael was killed on his way in to work when his motorcycle was hit by a truck.
News of Michael’s untimely death shook Marty, and caused him to consider the importance of that missed conversation. He went to the dealership and asked if there was anything he could do.
Owner Rich Quaid opened up the dealership to Marty, who spoke and prayed with the employees. Those conversations marked the birth of a ministry.
Pastor Marty (aka ‘Slow Dog’) and some of his friends from church (The Lamb’s Fellowship) started riding together. Since they were often teased about being the “black sheep” of The Lamb’s Fellowship, the name stuck.
While there are many Christian motorcyle ministries out there, Black Sheep is unique in that it is focused on H.O.G. (Harley Owners Group) members. After all, Harley riders are a unique breed who tend to keep to themselves. Who better to speak into their lives than fellow riders?
In the words of Slow Dog himself, “After 30 years of ministry in the local church, Christ has called me to rally the tens of thousands of Harley riders whose lives have been committed to Christ, to organize and strategically reach out to other riders with the Good News and compassion of Jesus Christ.”
From its humble beginnings in Southern California in 1999, Black Sheep: Harley-Davidsons for Christ has grown to include chapters in 27 states and five countries.
Black Sheep HDFC’s mission – “To introduce Jesus Christ to the world of motorcycle riders, for the purpose of making more and better disciples through the ministry of the local church.” – is (you guessed it!) excellent.
And to think that it all started with a flat tire…
I don’t own a Harley. Yet. But when I do, I want to be a Black Sheep.
If you could choose any Harley, which would you ride? (my pick is the Night Rod Special!)
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{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
Isn’t this something? That God. He’s so sneaky and wise. I don’t know how these things find you, Larry, but I’m so happy that they do. Thanks for sharing them.
As for the Harley, I don’t know one from the other really, but am as giddy as my sons when we see a bunch parked together. Once,in a Tim Hortons in Madoc, a man lifted Matthew onto his bike – a shiny, low one with handlebars so wide, Matthew could barely reach them. The grin that split Matthew’s face was beautiful, but the real pleasure was seeing the man’s face when Matthew made “Vroom, vroom” noises.
Liz McLennan recently posted..On Social Media and Cyber-Meanies
A Kodak moment for sure! Scenes like that stick with you for a lifetime, and warm your heart. Thanks for sharing, Liz!
Larry, I once had one of those missed opportunities, that until today, and as I write this comment, brings tears to my eyes. The dad of one of my daughter’s boyfriend would drop him off often at our home to spend time. I would always wave to the dad, but would never really say anything else. On one of the drop off days, I decided to at at least invite him to our church. That was first and last time I ever spoke to him. He died the very next morning of a heart attack while he slept. I want to share the gospel with others, especially when God directs me to. I don’t want anymore missed opportunities. Great post. God bless.
Juan Cruz Jr recently posted..Running for my Life by Lopez Lomong, with Mark Tabb (Book Review)
One of the older gentlemen at our church shared a similar story with us last Sunday. I must admit that I do not share the Gospel like I should. I think God is trying to tell me something here. Thank you, Juan!
This is most excellent Larry. The Gen. Mgr of H-D in Bloomington goes to the church I pastor so I have forwarded this on to him.
bill (cycleguy) recently posted..Traffic
Very cool, Bill. Thanks for doing that!
Hey Larry,
Thanks for the article. I am a Black Sheep from the Lake Elsinore, CA chapter. It is awesome to be able to combine my love for motorcycles with my faith. I was greatly impacted by my (now) Black Sheep brothers who came along side me through a very difficult time in my life. A better group of guys and gals there never was.
I can’t wait till you get your bike and come ride with us!
The hearts and compassion that people in this ministry have are amazing. From the perspective of iron sharpening iron, I am a better Christ follwer because of my brothers and sisters in Black Sheep.
If anyone is in need, please do not hesitate to email. If you are not in my area, I will point you to the closest chapter, if I can’t help. Lean on us as we lean on Him!
It’s a pleasure to meet you, Donnie. I’m looking forward to riding with you one day!