Over the Labor Day 2013 weekend an estimated 500,000 Harley Davidson enthusiasts are set to attend Harley Davidson’s 110th Anniversary Party in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This unique gathering of bikers from all over the world is Harley Davidson's highlight of the year. This festival consists of concerts, rides, exhibits, vendors, and great food. But this is more than just a biker rally, Harley Davidson’s 110th Reunion provides three key lessons for the Church.
But first, a quick anecdote of how I nearly died because of a pickle...
In High School I briefly worked at the local Hardees. During one of these massive Harley Anniversary Rallies a group of bikers strode up to the counter. ‘I want six hamburgers with no pickles, or I will kill you,’ the leader growled. I quickly turned to the line-cook and in my high-pitched voice relayed the order. When I delivered the pickle-less hamburgers (after double checking them), he gave me an extra $20, and thanked me with a crooked smile. The money was timely as I needed to order a new pair of uniform pants, to replace my newly stained ones...
Here is what Harley Davidson can Teach the Church
-People Want to Belong to Something Greater than Themselves
We are wired to connect with someone or something greater than ourselves. Even the most fiercely independent bikers share their love of Harley’s with other Harley owners. The popularity of Harley Owner Groups, or HOG Chapters speaks to the innate desire to belong. Over 1,400 HOG Chapters exist all over the world.
Christians affirm that we are created in God’s image, which means that we are hardwired to want to connect with others and to Christ. The British writer G.K. Chesterton once commented that, 'The man knocking on the door of the brothel is actually looking for God.' His point: people want to connect to something that will provide them with meaning.
-We Enjoy Diversity within Unity
Harley owners live in paradoxical reality. On the one hand they long for freedom and the lure of the open road. They relish the ability to uniquely customize their bikes to be as individualistic as themselves. But on the other hand everyone owns the exact same brand of motorcycle and these rallies are always well attended. Where else do over 500,000 nonconformists gather at the same location and at the same time for the same reason!
God’s Church is just as varied- from High to Low, formal to informal, liturgical to Holy Spirit driven; yet within this massive diversity, a unity exists. Our unity is centered upon Jesus, his life, his death and his victory over the grave. Maybe instead of trying to ensure uniformity the Church should embrace its diversity.
-We Will Gladly Sacrifice for What We Believe In
I once rode on the rear saddle of a large Harley. The guy driving was a friend and he fit the stereotypical image: skull tattoo’s on both arms, an untamed beard, and always jeans and flannel shirts. His love of all things Harley drove him to permanently alter his body, to pour thousands of dollars into his bike, and to join several biker clubs. When the cause is one that evokes strong passions and actions, people will gladly make significant sacrifices!
I often hear pastors lament the commitment level of their congregations. Sometimes churches try canned approaches to getting people to ‘buy in’ to their preferred ideal. I wonder if instead of trying to motivate people to be more involved, Churches should instead focus their efforts at creating an externally focused culture -one that is truly worth sacrificing for...
As always your thoughts and comments are welcomed...
