"Skydiving Without a Parachute" 02/16/2012
I cannot believe how often I hear about people taking such a great risk with their lives. Do you realize that there are literally millions of people, every day, who go “skydiving without a parachute?” For those of you who know me, you may already get the feeling that my sarcasm is coming out so get ready, buckle up, hang on tight, and all that, because this is a crazy ride. Picture this. Someone you know (it may even be you) has made plans to board a plane and take a flight to a certain destination. You pick one, most any will do for the sake of our story. So this person is riding along and all of a sudden the pilot announces there’s not enough fuel to make it to the appointed destination and have enough fuel to make it to his next stop so he’s going to have a flight attendant open a side door and any passengers who have to, may jump out. Well, the subject of our story has been simply been enjoying the ride and had not made any plans to jump from a plane because they never planned for any type of emergency like this. They had never been to a seminar on what to do in case there was a need to jump from a plane in mid-flight. They had never joined a support group of those people who flew to make plans in case there was ever a need to jump. The support group would have been those who could provide good advice about planning for such an instance, even planning on having a parachute, JUST IN CASE OF EMERGENCY. Skydiving in this case is life. I would have to say that anyone who would go skydiving without the benefit of a parachute is simply crazy and looking for trouble. You would agree with me (I hope). The Word of God teaches us that planning is very important for living. Are you with me? Jeremiah 29.11-13: 11For I know the plans that I think toward you, says the Lord, plans of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope. 12Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. 13And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart. The Lord, God in Heaven who created you, wants you to consult Him in everything you do. That means all of your planning. Do not wait for an emergency situation to call out to God. Do not wait until you have absolutely nothing to call upon Him or His people because it is almost certainly too late to get some help. Look at this next verse: Proverbs 15.22: Without counsel, plans go awry, But in the multitude of counselors they are established. Unfortunately, people do not take heed to the counsel of God’s Word. Sadly, many of the people who really need good counsel will not read this blog so they might recognize themselves as being the foolish one to go “skydiving without a parachute”. There are many people, right now, who will have too much month and too little money to pay for their needs. Most often its because of unwise lifestyle choices: i.e. - spending more than they make on things that are not necessary such as smoking cigarettes, paying for a cell phone contract, cable or satellite TV, pet care and food (Don’t get me wrong - I understand you might enjoy having a dog, but it is not necessary), etc . . . My counsel is to become wise with what you make while you make it so that in tough times you have an emergency plan. Proverbs 21.5: The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, But those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty. If you are a believer and do not have a home church: FIND ONE, period. Hebrews 19.24.25: 24And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching. It will be your church family who knows you and will be best able to address your specific needs. It will be your church family who has watched you to know if you have been diligent in your prayer life, in your walk with Christ, so that they can help with a temporary setback. On the other had, it will be your church family who will also know if you have been frivolous with your money and have not been a good steward of your finances and it would then be best for you if you sat down with someone who could offer you good advice on how to stay out of debt. I do not know of a church that would turn you away on Sunday when you came to worship with them. If there is then its not really representing the will of God. If you are an unbeliever, I would like you to know that Christ died for all the sins of all the world, that includes you. It may be that you are in a situation that requires immediate help but know this: you have a way to make plans so that you do not have to experience such emergencies that are out of your control. The Word of God teaches that you can make good decisions so that you might not have to panic. Going through life without a relationship with the Lord, without a relationship with His people, is like skydiving without a parachute. Everyone has a type of faith but often misplaced. Isn't it time to take the step to make the right plans? Add Comment The Real Meaning . . . 01/14/2012
You know, I find it interesting that people send me things that proclaim the real meaning of something. I get so many things like this by snail-mail or e-mail that it boggles the mind at just how many people actually believe they have a lock on what is the truth. In fact, just the other day I received a strange "manifesto" of sorts by a religious fringe group out of Texas whose leader was imprisoned for "marrying" young teenage brides for some of his many wives. My question is: When someone writes or proclaims the "Real Meaning of . . ." why is it they rarely, if ever, rely on the Word of God to define such things? Makes you wonder? I hope so. When you are faced with someone who states a belief that they are offering some modicum of truth, always ask yourself if they use Scripture to define their belief. Hebrews 11:3 By faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that the things which are seen were not made of things which are visible. John 14:6 Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. The Word of God is how we must define what we believe and proclaim. I am writing in response to all of the talk about those who do not say "Merry Christmas" today. Please realize I do not speak for all believers when I share my position on the term "Merry Christmas". I simply wish to share my concerns as I see the meaning and importance of Jesus arrival erode into a very commercial and secular observance. It is no surprise that those in professional politics can no longer say Merry Christmas in their correspondence. It is also no great loss . . . You see Christmas is no longer the religious observance it ought to be. In fact, the holiday is marred by images and false belief in Santa Clause, his flying reindeer, as well as hundreds of other things that have stripped bare the celebration of Christ's birth. 1 The term Christmas, when originated, was never used in remembrance of the birth of Christ but simply a term describing the worship service of the Catholic Church of around AD1038. It holds no value or meaning today in a society where people have no relationship with the Christ who came, not just to be born and laid in a manger, but to grow up, share the message of eternal life, suffer and die on the cross of Calvary. He shed His blood on that cross for the sake of all the world and those who trust in Him for salvation will be saved from eternal damnation. I no longer care if a store does not use the word Christmas in its advertisement, nor do I even care if a politician says Merry Christmas in their letters because many have no idea of what a relationship with Jesus really is. It is, however, my prayer, that all men accept the precious gift of God's grace, through faith in Jesus Christ who suffered, died and was buried and rose from the grave to accomplish what no man ever could - the payment for the sin of all the world. 1 Timothy 2.3-6: 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, 4 who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. 5 For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men, the Man Christ Jesus, 6 who gave Himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time . . . I pray we can share this message with as many as possible. Blessings to you, your family, and friends; And I pray you have a Joyful celebration of Christ's Birth: "Cara Christogeno"!* IN His Service, Pstr. Richard J. Rizzi Farmington, NH *Greek for Joyful Christ's Birth (1. In fact, as I wrote this a home burned down, killing 5 people, because they mishandled hot fireplace embers so that "Santa" could come down the chimney.) The Great Deception - Part 2 11/18/2011
My last installment discussed the fallacy that a person could do whatever they want to. That is what the world would have you believe. There are some people, even Christians, who will tell you: “You can worship anywhere”. Yes and no. While it is true the Lord will receive worship from any place in the world, the Bible is quite specific that people must worship the Lord in “spirit and truth.”John 4.23. We find in the Word: Matthew 18.20: "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them." For a person to be able to worship the Lord would mean that spiritually they are walking in the truth of the Lord. If for any reason, a person is at enmity (hostility, in opposition) with the Lord, then it is impossible to offer worship to the Lord until what has caused the issue is put to rest. When there is an issue between believers, the Lord teaches that it must be addressed in a manner befitting those who proclaim Christ as Savior. In Matthew 18.15 - 17 we are taught that if there is an issue that has caused division, if someone has hurt another believer, the injured party is to attempt to make it right between the injuring party. Should either of the two parties ignore this command of the Lord, no matter where they go, they have missed the “spirit and truth” of God’s Word. I will always try to do my best in working toward spiritual reconciliation with others of the body. My prayer is that others will also do the same. So, while it is possible to worship the Lord “anywhere” we must consider whether we are at peace with our Lord. This is a matter of spiritual maturity and so I share this from the Word: Romans 12:10 Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another. The Great Deception 10/05/2011
“You can do whatever you want to . . .” This just happens to be the biggest lie being perpetrated upon people of every generation. 1 Corinthians 10.23,24: 23All things are lawful for me, but not all things are helpful; all things are lawful for me, but not all things edify. 24Let no one seek his own, but each one the other’s well-being. God recognizes that people can do a number of things and that society may even legitimize any number of activities that are not pleasing to Him. So, for some people, they can do whatever they want to do . . .within reason. But reason is not truth but can be shaped by truth. The truth is that God created all things to reflect a relationship with Him. Colossians 1.16b: All things were created through Him and for Him. This truth must be the guiding factor for all of God’s creation - you included. You were created for God. Created to honor and glorify Him with your existence. When you get up each day are you willing to let go of that addiction so that you can pay your other bills? Are you willing to set aside some time to come together with other believers for corporate worship, fellowship and discipleship? May I suggest that you take this next verse, clip it out and keep it someplace where it will remind you that even though you have the freedom to make any number of choices that reflect your own personal desires, it is better for you to choose to follow what God teaches from His Word. Colossians 1:18 And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. In God We Trust; One Nation Under God! 06/29/2011
As we consider the freedoms we enjoy do you ever stop to think about why some people have a problem with certain expressions of faith in the Lord? Our currency has the expression “In God We Trust” printed on it simply because, as a nation, we were founded on biblical principles and most of the founders believed in God. The Pledge of Allegiance, an oath of loyalty to the flag and republic of the United States of America, have the words “Under God” added because the Gettysburg Address contained that phrase. My point is that God, to us as a nation, has always been important. I do understand that there are people who do not believe in God as I do and that is their freedom to do so. On the other hand, my question for people who do not believe in God, why does it matter if we still have money printed with those words, or why are you bothered by the words under God in the pledge, if you do not believe in a God? 2 Timothy 2:7 Consider what I say, and may the Lord give you understanding in all things. Understanding comes from the Lord for spiritual things so I cannot fault those who do not believe as I do but we do know that there is enough evidence of God that no one has an excuse not to believe. Romans 1:20 For since the creation of the world His invisible attributes are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they are without excuse. So to the people who are offended by public displays of the Ten Commandments I ask why? If there is no God and no meaning derived from such wonderful lessons taught through the Ten Commandments, why would you oppose then being displayed? The answer may be as simple as this: Ecclesiastes 3:11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end. My faith in the Lord allows me to discern that all people have an understanding that there is a God and that He desires for them to come to Him for salvation. But people being people resist the Lord and miss out on the blessing of peace through knowing the Savior. My prayer is that more people know the Savior and accept His gift of salvation. COEXIST 05/07/2011
 Alright, we have all seen the bumper sticker on cars that read “Coexist”. I, quite frankly, am a bit baffled by the message because since we all live on the planet earth and breath the same air, we simply coexist. But the discerning citizen realizes that there is an interesting agenda behind the “coexist” movement. The idea is for people to live with the philosophy of “to promote understanding and respect between Jews, Christians and Muslims through education, dialogue and research”. It might seem reasonable, except that when we delve deep into what we believe and why, at the very core is that convert others to our way of thinking. The very basic principle of having faith, say for instance, in Christ as Lord and Savior, is that He is the way, the truth, and the life and the no one can have eternal life by any other faith (John 14.6). That is my belief. But what of the many other sources that teach they are the way? All I can say is that you must examine your faith, what you believe in and that it produces godly results (1 Corinthians 2.5). When you take the time to examine the basic principles and philosophy of a given belief system it will either stand the test of God or it will not. To know Him you must call out to Him. It is my prayer that more people find the peace of Christ that passes all understanding. My Grandpa's Coat 02/14/2011
The other day, as I went out to move some of what our New England winter gave us, I was thinking about something that most people would not find any value in. I have, in an old armoire, a coat that was once my grandpa’s. Its made of wool and it has kept me warm whenever I have worn it out in the cold to shovel snow. Now most people would look at that old coat and simply see an “old man’s coat”, but I see something different. To me it represents tradition. No, not a tradition of wearing the coat, but it represents old fashioned values. I have quite a few coats and some of them were somewhat expensive and are in nearly new condition. But the coat given to me by my grandpa is “broken in”. It is tried and true and has endured the test of time. You know, it makes me think of all of the “new things” people want to try instead of trusting in what the Lord has given in the Bible. (Yeah, that old Book) The Bible tells us: As for God, His way is perfect; The word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. (2 Samuel 22.31) What the Lord has, for every person, is better than something like a coat that has been handed down from one generation to the next. He offers, to each individual, a personal relationship with Him and the result is eternal life. If you have questions concerning this relationship, I would be glad to discuss this with you. Come for a visit this Sunday. The Main Thing 12/02/2010
“The main thing is to keep the main thing the main thing.” Stephen Covey So what exactly is the “main thing”? We are rapidly approaching Christmas. Many Christians and non-Christians will celebrate Christmas but the focus will be far different for these two groups. For the Christian the focus is on remembering the blessings of Christ’s birth. While the Christian might put up a tree and share presents with others, the focus is not on the commercialism of the “Holiday” but more about the Holiness of that day, nearly 2000 years ago, when Jesus was born in that humble setting and placed in a manger. All too many times people today celebrate Christmas with very little thought to the real meaning of the celebration. Christmas has become big business and highly commercial. I would even go to say (and this is my personal perspective) that when a large corporation "allows" their employees to say "Merry Christmas" it is not to offer Christ centered blessings but to bring up the "bottom line" or raise their revenue. That is why we find banners with Merry Christmas alongside a display with the jolly guy in the red suit. Do a bit of research and you will find the satire behind much of what we see today in the business of Christmas. You will find that Saint Nicolas incrementally became the Santa Clause who was not earth bound but could travel by sleigh because he alone possessed special flying reindeer. He could fly the entire world over in only one night and even before that he could know who was bad or good, who is sleeping, who is awake. Those who brought this tall tale into existence, I imagine, never intended it to take away from Christmas but it can if we lose focus of the truth of God's Word. You know, it all comes back to the authority of Scripture. If we regard Scripture as a mere sidebar to life and not the guiding factor of how we live we will find that we are off track. So keep the main thing, the main thing! If you wish to keep the main thing the main thing this year and celebrate Christmas, it’s great to decorate your home and share gifts with your loved ones. I enjoy giving the gifts as well as being thought of to receive them. But remember that scene offered to us in Scripture: Luke 2.6,7: 6So it was, that while they were there, the days were completed for her to be delivered. 7And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Keeping the focus only on Christ and the gift of His grace that comes through faith in Him is the “Reason for the Season!” Yes, Virginia, there really is a reason for celebrating Christmas, and that is because God so loved the world that He sent His only Son, so that whoever believes in Him would not perish, but have eternal life. I wish to share with all who come to read this installment a very Merry Christ centered Holiday Season! What kind of church is this? 10/30/2010
Last night at T.I.M. (youth group) we had a time of teaching where the kids did some skits. There were five teams that demonstrated various types of churches to the rest of the group. There was the Movie Theater church where people go for entertainment. The people who go to this church for what they can get from the service not for what they can bring. There is an attitude of "I can't wait to see the latest music video on the screen" or "My church is so cool because we sing only the newest songs . . ." The Country Club church was where people go for social reasons - who they can see or to be seen. Those who go to this church tend to have a philosophy that by going to church (the right church) that their social circle will be better and their standing in the community is therefore somehow better. Then we had the Supermarket church. Now this church has it all, a group for everything - the moms with wet babies group, the dads with pink slippers group, the teens who have siblings group, and on and on . . .the list was endless to the special groups formed so that there would something for everyone. The Museum church was interesting. This was a very traditional church. Stuffy and orderly. Everything at MC had to be just right and the children were to seen and not heard. There was no joy in worship and no spontaneity because if it was not in the "Order of Worship" well, it just did not happen. The Holy Spirit was not even allowed permission to move in the MC. Then we find the Hospital church. On any given Sunday at HC you will find people with their many problems and issues. Here at HC people come only when tragedy strikes. When one loses a job, off to HC to pray for God to help them get a job. When a family member faces a life threatening illness, off to HC and pray. You get the picture, the people who go to HC only go when they want something from God and then once the trial is done they might not attend church until the next challenge. Now of course I do want to downplay the hurts and the losses people face on a regular basis but I do want to make a point. That point being, that God is not a genie in a bottle. He is not in the business of offering you entertainment or a place to go to meet people and make friends. He does not find great pleasure in people who seek to control the church or His Holy Spirit. When people go to God only when there is something is wrong - then something is really wrong because God is not there to take care of the temporary problems we all face everyday. No God is so much more than that. Going to church is about worship. John 4:24 "God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." When our lesson was near the end, one young man asked a very important question - "What kind of church is this?" It was the best question to ask. I had to think about it a moment and my response was this: "This is whatever the people who come into it make it." I'm sure we have aspects of each church listed above at various times. The reality is that First Baptist Church is not perfect, nor will it ever be. One thing that we can do though, is strive to honor the Lord while we live in this world. 1 Peter 2.1-8 teaches us that we are the church, the living building blocks, a spiritual house that make up the body of Christ. We are the temple of God (2 Corinthians 6.16) and as such we are the church. In light of all of what we have in God's Word we must ask ourselves . . . What kind of church is this? |  AuthorPastor Rich Rizzi comes from Endicott, NY where he was raised in an Italian, Roman Catholic family who taught him about belief in God. While those basic principles taught him who God is and what He is like, Pastor Rizzi did not have a personal relationship with Christ until age 25 when he received Christ as Lord and Savior. ArchivesFebruary 2012 CategoriesAll |
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