By Beth Mathison

The Midwestern sky is clear and bright, the autumn air a crisp fifty degrees. The colors are at peak, proclaiming the beauty of God’s creation. To some, this day means a trip to the pumpkin farm or a ride through a state park. To others, this is a perfect day for a motorcycle ride.

Ralph Sorenson dons his cold-weather riding gear -- leather chaps, leather gloves, sturdy riding boots, leather jacket. Fifty degrees is comfortable for those admiring the view, but at fifty miles an hour, it’s a bit nippy. The last thing he puts on is his vest, emblazoned with a bright CMA patch on the back. “Christian Motorcycle Association� is stitched along the edges of the logo. Boldly displaying the colors of this group of Christians, Sorenson represents a growing number of motorcyclists who are taking Jesus’ message out on the road.

The open road is calling to a mounting segment of the population, many of them seeking the thrill of motorcycling without the stereotypical bad-boy behavior. Fortunately, in today’s motorcycling communities, you’re more likely to find an off-duty white collar worker than a Hell’s Angel. The gangs still exists, however, along with the violence and hedonistic lifestyles. Many opportunities to bring Jesus’ message of life and hope exist in the motorcycling community.

The Christian Motorcycle Association is a non-denominational, international organization, with members serving in more than fourteen countries. Ministry teams are committed to serve others, no matter what colors they wear on their backs or what kind of bike they ride.

CMA’s stated vision is “changing the world, one heart at a time.� Members are as diverse as the motorcycling population itself, which makes ministry particularly effective.
CMAers, as they are sometimes called, can be seen ladling soup at a local rally, washing bikes for free, or assisting a stranded biker on the side of the road. They volunteer at events around the country, from the annual Sturgis rally to local Harley Owner’s Group rides. Rolling up their sleeves, they set up chairs, assemble tents, and offer a hand wherever needed. Thousands of Christians and non-Christians show up for annual “biker blessings� at the beginning of the riding season. This attitude of service has earned them respect throughout the biking community. They embrace the idea of spreading the gospel through Godly action.

CMA has not forgotten to support their own community. Members organize rides, trips, and rallies, offering a Christian alternative to traditional “poker runs� and bar-hopping.

Coming together to encourage one another, they live out Biblical principles, providing a world once dominated with violence and anger with the hope of Jesus’s continuing love.

You can find more information at www.cmausa.org.

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