When Fear Is Not A Factor

When Fear Is Not A Factor

”There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life—fear of death, fear of judgment—is one not yet fully formed in love.” 1 John 4:18

With the 2014 Winter Olympics at full speed, so begins the challenge of keeping America’s interest in these “Frostbitten Festivities.”  You see, for the most part, the people of Sochi, Austria, Iceland, and the Antarctica have anticipated these toe-numbing and spine tingling spectaculars since the 2010 Games went off the air.

However, that’s not necessarily so with parts of America and especially from SoCal.  We are cut out of a different swath.  Our idea of cold weather is clouds and a Santa Ana wind.  With all the Winter “Citius, Altius, Fortius” (Higher, Stronger, Faster)…we’d just as soon have Summer “Surfus, Sunnus, and Shinus” (no translation necessary).

But one thing is for sure…whether you are a fan of the Games or not, these athletes are fearless.  The Winter Olympics are Fear Factor meets the circus trapeze and that has often been enough to overcome the apathy barrier.  While the Summer Olympics always has it share of hamstring pulls and pummel horse falls, at the Winter Olympics, we’re talking bullet train rides, high flying stunts, and crashes that make your head spin.

The Winter Olympics is about three main things…speed, speed, and speed.  When you consider events such as downhill skiing, these racers are moving at a clip of up to 90 miles per hour.  Many people are afraid to do that in their cars on an open highway, let alone a hard-packed sheet of ice that can instantaneously put them in the E.R. (and not the old George Clooney kind).

To boot, Sports Illustrated revealed that from 1975 to date, every American skier who medaled at the Olympics (with one exception) has torn the critical ACL (anterior cruciate ligament).  Fear strikes in many ways.  Sometimes they pertain to a “phobia” (New Testament word for “fear”) such as heights (acrophobia), close places (claustrophobia), and water (hydrophobia).  Other times they might involved giants that we face in a relationship, a physical challenge, financial difficulty, or a child that is walking through a hard season.  Whatever the cases, they can be handled with courage because we know we never handle them alone. 

I can’t help but believe that all God’s people in the Hebrews Hall of Faith had a little bit of “Thrill Seeker” in them.

-Joshua and Caleb were not concerned about their giants because they knew that God was great.  (Numbers 13:36-14:9)

-David entered his own brand of games when he took on Goliath, experiencing a “Gold Medal” round in slinging and sword-wielding. (1 Samuel 17:32-58)

-An aging Apostle John wrote in 1 John 4:18, “There is no room in love for fear. Well-formed love banishes fear. Since fear is crippling, a fearful life—fear of death, fear of judgment—is one not yet fully formed in love.”

Did you catch that?  Fear is crippling (and might even cause an ACL tear), but a love for God banishes it.  There are no greater fears than death and judgment, but in Christ, it turns a mountain into a molehill.  Now I can sure get into that.

Terry Risser

Reflections:

1)   What is your greatest fear and anxiety as of today?

2)   Take time to turn your focus on a love for Christ and see if He doesn’t build your faith over fear.

 Consider reading the Word today:

Copyright 2015 - Terry Risser

Showboating and Snowboarding

Showboating and Snowboarding

”First pride, then the crash—the bigger the ego, the harder the fall.” Proverbs 16:18

Well, sports fans…the Ice Age has begun!  While some are anticipating the triple-digit temperatures (110-118 F- degrees) of Soccer’s World Cup this Summer, others are going to watch the good ol’ thermostats drop to single-digit for the Winter Olympics this weekend.  Talk about “Extreme Games.” With last night’s 2014 Winter Olympic’s Opening Ceremonies, it seems best to watch them on television with a hot chocolate and marshmallows as you take in the Winter Wonderland of Sochi.  As you do, the broadcasts will cause complete sports strangers become best friends and familiar household names. 

Remember a few years ago when we watched slalom skier “Picabo” (Pee-Ka-Boo) Street.  While some claimed she had a hospital wing named after her during a stint in the Intensive Care Unit, there was no merit to speculation about a place called “Picabo…I.C.U.”   Now, of course, a newcomer on the scene, Ted Ligety, will see how fast his split times (the split time is the time taken to complete an initial distance in a longer event) which makes it the first time in Olympic history a racer will come by “Ligety Split.”  Many years of discipline, training, and perseverance have brought them to this stage of life.  But beware of the dangers that lurk.  Complete focus is the only sure-fire antidote to the most savvy veteran.

One of the more memorable moments of the 2006 Winter Olympic Games came in the Gold Medal race of a brand new event called “Snowboard Cross.” It’s like a motocross event with multiple racers going at one time over a treacherous course filled with obstacles – only the racers are on snowboards. In the Gold Medal race, American Lindsey Jacobellis started out with 3 other racers. By the midpoint of the race, Jacobellis was alone, far in front, having escaped a crash that took out 2 of the 4 racers and delayed a third. As she had the finish line in sight, she reached the second to last jump. She was so far in front you couldn’t even see the 2nd place racer. So, she did something she’ll regret for a long time. She decided to do a little showboating, and grabbed her board in mid air and did a little squiggle in midair. Unfortunately, this little act of showmanship caused her to lose her balance. She crashed on her landing, and as she was struggling to get back up, Switzerland’s Tanja Frieden raced past her to claim to the Gold Medal. Jacobellis later gave this simple explanation for her behavior saying, "I was caught up in the moment." That is the problem, isn’t it? When we get caught up in the moment and quit focusing on the task ahead.

Lindsey Jacobellis had one temporary lapse that led to a giant “collapse.” For just a moment, the enticement of a “showboating move” caused her a missed Gold Medal. The crash would be a lifetime lesson for her and for all who would watch, that you can never let overconfidence rule your life…or you too can crash in the final moment.

Proverbs 16:18 famously states, “Pride comes before the fall.” We must be on our guard not to capitulate to self-confidence, but lean on humility.  In the race of life, there are moments where we can let down our guard. Temptations, pride, attitudes, and diverting paths can all lead to a fall.  Whether short-term Christian or long-timer, we all can fall prey to the “pride monster.”  Concentrate on keeping your focus throughout your “game” and take a humble approach even when the deal is sealed. Failure can happen at the most inopportune time…it can happen in a “Lickety-Split.”

Terry Risser

Reflections:

1)   Can you recall a time that you fell to temptation because you let your guard down?

2)   Ask the Lord to point out where you are most susceptible to pride (marriage, parenting, work, etc.) and request His strength to be ready when it comes?

Consider reading the Word today:

Copyright 2015 - Terry Risser

What We’re All About

What We’re All About

“I’m not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation…” Romans 1:16

Recently, in an ever desirous attempt to improve my eating habits, I decided to make a change.  Nothing drastic, mind you, but an upgrade, nonetheless. Instead of eating an ever-satisfying Big Mac, I went the In - N - Out route. Now before you congratulate me too much, listen further.  Since crash diets often plummet faster than a lead-suited skydiver, I decided to ease into it.  In other words, start slow.  Simply by dropping from the 4,000-calorie burger to the 3,000-calorie burger would allow me to ease into it gradually.  Man, that burger was tasty…and 1,000 calories lighter.  I could feel the weight dropping off with every bite.  I’m tellin’ you, that’s what a hamburger is all about!

Now, In - N - Out is one great place if not a bit confusing.  I always feel like I’m on candid camera when I’m in that place. Have you ever:

1)    Ordered in the Drive Thru? They ask the ever-brainteasing query, “Are you eating it in your car or do you want it to go?”  That question is harder than the English section of my high school SAT’s.  I usually say, “Yes!”  Because I’m eating in my car and I will be on the “go.”

2)    Experienced the Straw Slide?  They love leaving the top half of the straw wrapper on until seconds before (sometimes at the moment) that you begin to comprehend it as your own.  At that split second, notice how they pull the wrapper off the top as if “no air” was allowed to penetrate the drink under their watch. Watch the sleight of hand next time you’re there. Like David Blaine at the Mirage!

But greater still, the famous franchise has an undisclosed menu that is more covert than the Pentagon’s secret chambers.  You don’t find it…you simply stumble upon it.  Along with the modified menu on display, is another menu that is kept so quiet that it makes the Mason’s look like gossips and Coca-Cola’s recipe front page news. Please “Tell My Story” if I disappear for talking (never to be heard from again).  Foods such as Protein Style (burger with a lettuce wrap) and Animal Style (artery-clogging french fries) are but a few of the items they don’t advertise, but are more than happy to oblige. Talk to the locals and they will spill like a collapsing Dr. Pepper.  If you like, you could tell them you think a “Protein Animal” would be great with “lettuce wrapped in cheese” for any attempting a “Gluttonous Diet.” 

However, in this clandestine chain, not everything is so secretive.  In fact, it’s everything but “under the radar” as to what is important to them.   From Day One back in 1948, In - N - Out founding family, Harry and Esther Snyder, and now, their grandchild Lynsi Torres, tout it, a restaurant that serves quality food and honors the Lord in all they do.  In the words of Paul, they are “not ashamed” to tell you. Years ago, they decided to make it known as well…though most eventually find out.  

Turn over the cups (Warning: Don’t try this while cups still contain a beverage) and you will see a Bible verse printed on the bottom rim of every cup. One from the Old Testament and one from the New.   

1)    The Milk Shake (OT) Cups:  At the bottom rim, you find Proverbs 3:5,6 which points us to the verse, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”

2)    The Soda (NT) Cups:  Printed below is John 3:16 which is ever so famous, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.”

You can see why I, when able, support California’s most famous secret society of burgers and fries and will even go on a “diet” to get one.  They inspire me to spread the most wonderful message ever given. You could say, “Unashamedly, giving the gospel…one person at a time.” 

Now that’s what a Christian is all about!

Terry Risser

Reflections:

1)   Who was the last person you shared something God did for you?

2)   Think of a way today you might slip Him into a conversation.

Copyright 2015 - Terry Risser

What We’re All About

What We’re All About

“I’m not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ for it is the power of God unto salvation…” Romans 1:16

Recently, in an ever desirous attempt to improve my eating habits, I decided to make a change.  Nothing drastic, mind you, but an upgrade, nonetheless. Instead of eating an ever-satisfying Big Mac, I went the In - N - Out route. Now before you congratulate me too much, listen further.  Since crash diets often plummet faster than a lead-suited skydiver, I decided to ease into it.  In other words, start slow.  Simply by dropping from the 4,000-calorie burger to the 3,000-calorie burger would allow me to ease into it gradually.  Man, that burger was tasty…and 1,000 calories lighter.  I could feel the weight dropping off with every bite.  I’m tellin’ you, that’s what a hamburger is all about!

Now, In - N - Out is one great place if not a bit confusing.  I always feel like I’m on candid camera when I’m in that place. Have you ever:

1)    Ordered in the Drive Thru? They ask the ever-brainteasing query, “Are you eating it in your car or do you want it to go?”  That question is harder than the English section of my high school SAT’s.  I usually say, “Yes!”  Because I’m eating in my car and I will be on the “go.”

2)    Experienced the Straw Slide?  They love leaving the top half of the straw wrapper on until seconds before (sometimes at the moment) that you begin to comprehend it as your own.  At that split second, notice how they pull the wrapper off the top as if “no air” was allowed to penetrate the drink under their watch. Watch the sleight of hand next time you’re there. Like David Blaine at the Mirage! 

But greater still, the famous franchise has an undisclosed menu that is more covert than the Pentagon’s secret chambers.  You don’t find it…you simply stumble upon it.  Along with the modified menu on display, is another menu that is kept so quiet that it makes the Mason’s look like gossips and Coca-Cola’s recipe front page news. Please “Tell My Story” if I disappear for talking (never to be heard from again).  Foods such as Protein Style (burger with a lettuce wrap) and Animal Style (artery-clogging french fries) are but a few of the items they don’t advertise, but are more than happy to oblige. Talk to the locals and they will spill like a collapsing Dr. Pepper.  If you like, you could tell them you think a “Protein Animal” would be great with “lettuce wrapped in cheese” for any attempting a “Gluttonous Diet.” 

However, in this clandestine chain, not everything is so secretive.  In fact, it’s everything but “under the radar” as to what is important to them.   From Day One back in 1948, In - N - Out founding family, Harry and Esther Snyder, and now, their grandchild Lynsi Torres, tout it, a restaurant that serves quality food and honors the Lord in all they do.  In the words of Paul, they are “not ashamed” to tell you. Years ago, they decided to make it known as well…though most eventually find out.  

Turn over the cups (Warning: Don’t try this while cups still contain a beverage) and you will see a Bible verse printed on the bottom rim of every cup. One from the Old Testament and one from the New.   

1)    The Milk Shake (OT) Cups:  At the bottom rim, you find Proverbs 3:5,6 which points us to the verse, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.”

2)    The Soda (NT) Cups:  Printed below is John 3:16 which is ever so famous, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.”

You can see why I, when able, support California’s most famous secret society of burgers and fries and will even go on a “diet” to get one.  They inspire me to spread the most wonderful message ever given. You could say, “Unashamedly, giving the gospel…one person at a time.” 

Now that’s what a Christian is all about!

Terry Risser

Reflections:

1)   Who was the last person you shared something God did for you?

2)   Think of a way today you might slip Him into a conversation.

Consider reading the Word today:

Copyright 2015 - Terry Risser

Famous Last Words

Famous Last Words

“And when the Holy Spirit comes on you, you will be able to be my witnesses in Jerusalem, all over Judea and Samaria, even to the ends of the world.”  These were his last words. As they watched, he was taken up and disappeared in a cloud. Acts 1:8,9 

Most people tend to die pretty much like they lived.  In other words, what has become most important at the end of their lives will reveal what we thought and believed during it.  The unrehearsed recorded last words of some of history’s most famous people, in many cases, tend to remind us that we are always being shaped and formed; not only for this life, but for the life to come.  See if that doesn’t hold true.

1)    Louis B. Mayer (Film Producer), “Nothing matters. Nothing matters.”

2)    Oscar Wilde (Writer), “My wallpaper and I are fighting a dual to the death. One or the other of us has got to go.”

3)    Sigmund Freud (Psychiatrist), “My dear Schur, you remember our first talk? You promised to help me when I could no longer carry on. It is only torture now, and it has no longer any sense.”

4)    George Gipp (Notre Dame Football Player), “Win one for the Gipper!”

5)    Ludwig van Beethoven (Composer), “Friends applaud, the comedy is over.”

6)    Queen Elizabeth I, “All my possessions for a moment of time.”

7)    Thomas Jefferson (President and Author of the Declaration of Independence), “Is it the Fourth?” (Jefferson died on July 4^th, 1826, the 50^th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.)

8)    Babe Ruth (Baseball Player), “I’m going over the valley.”

9)    Al Jolson (Actor), “This is it! I’m going. I’m going.”

10) Nathan Hale (Patriot), “I only regret that I have but one life to lose for my country.”

11) Alexander Graham Bell (Telephone Inventor), “So little done, so much to do.”

12) Vincent Van Gogh (Painter), “Sadness shall last forever.”

13) Leonardo da Vinci (Inventor), “I have offended God and mankind because my work did not reach the quality it should have.”

14) Edgar Allen Poe (Poet), “Lord, help my poor soul.”

15) Pope John Paul II, “Amen.”

When you look at Jesus’ life, you will find two places where He gave last words.  The first was just before His death when He said, “It is finished.” (John 19:30) The second was just before His ascension into heaven when He said, “Be my witnesses…to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8) In essence, Jesus reminds us that since His work has been completed, ours has just begun.  Someone said, “His last words are our first priority.”  To that, I would have to agree with the late Pope and say, “Amen!”

Terry Risser

Reflections:

1)   What is important today that is consistent or different from what you want to leave for others?

2)   Ask the Lord to put His “famous last words” as a high priority today.

Consider reading the word today:

Copyright 2015 - Terry Risser