The Back Patch

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Well, it looks as though the Brethren will be taking the next step. This step we feel has been ordered by the Lord. After much prayer and consideration the Brethren have decided to become a group that will wear a patch on our backs. This patch represents our decision to follow God.

It does not mean that we live sinless lives or that we have attained perfection. The patch is an outward sign of an inward change. I will still stumble and fall in my life. But I know that Christ Jesus loves me. I know God will use my Brothers to help me stand on my feet. Together we Brethren travel the path that God leads us down, and with His help we can make our path a little brighter for those who may follow or cross it. Please pray with us as we walk this new path.

With a backpack full of failures and a heart that’s made of stone
I stand before my future feeling weary and alone.
Not knowing what awaits me and burdened on the way
You asked if you would carry my backpack for today.
You smiled and took it from me like it had no weight at all
We walked and talked of battles fought while answering life's call.
“Why would you want to carry all these failures everyday
I don't even remember them,” I heard you softly say.
Then slowly you began to drop my failures from the pack
my heart became much lighter as each one fell from the sack.
“Walk on without these failures walk on until you're home
Your load is now much lighter and you’ll never be alone”.

If by wearing the Brethren patch on my back I can help someone turn to Christ and give up their heavy burdens, then I am willing to wear it. Whether that person is a fellow Brethren or someone outside the group I will obey God's leading.

None are perfect only FORGIVEN.
70X7

Larry

The Brethren Covenant

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The Brethren is based on honesty, accountability and responsibility. This is a group of men taking responsibility for the people around them (brother's keeper). Most motorcycle groups are about pride and "what power can the patch bring me?" The Brethren takes the brother's keeper stand to support each other as they battle daily struggles. Whether it is in the habitual arena, personal struggles or family needs. This includes all facets of the Brethren life.

Honesty- The willingness to reveal one's struggles in life. Exposing your weaknesses and allowing your Brethren to support you in working on it, so it doesn't ruin your life. NEVER IS A BRETHREN ALLOWED TO SHARE ANOTHER'S STRUGGLES WITH ANYONE OUTSIDE THE GROUP. GOSSIP AND CHARACTER ASSASSINATIONS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. What happens here stays here. If this bond is broken, you will be reprimanded or asked to leave the group.

Accountability- Taking responsibility to help a fellow Brother deal with and work through struggles. Making yourself available anytime a fellow Brother needs support. This would have no limits. Accountability is double edged. Not only are you available to support a Brother, but you will be challenged by a Brother to move forward in bettering yourself.

Responsibility- Taking responsibility for your neighbor in life. If you see a need, you are expected and required to do something positive to better that person's life. The easiest response may be to ignore the situation because "the person gets what they deserve". Fortunately, God doesn't give us what we deserve, but chooses to show us love and a way through the situation. As a Brethren, you are expected to assist in finding and assisting families and individuals in need. This includes people outside the Brethren group whenever possible.

The group is about being your Brother's Keeper. This way of living is taken from the Biblical passage in Matthew chapter 25, verses 35-40.

A Thought to Keep

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We would rather be good employees, helpful volunteers, and even generous givers before we give up our secret sins. But the Lord will not be satisfied with any sacrifice except our hearts. When we humble ourselves before him, he is always ready to accept us.

Stay Strong Brother
Danno