Messages From Pastor Bill

[David] said to his men, “The Lord forbid that I should do this thing to my lord, the Lord’s anointed, to raise my hand against him; for he is the Lord’s anointed.” – 1 Samuel 24:6

Summer, 2020

Dear friends, 

It is time for summer, and I am not sure what to write.  What source of inspiration is valid for this unique and challenging situation in which we find ourselves? Nevertheless, I contend there is always cause for hope.  Throughout the Bible, people of faith have been pushed to their limits, and often, they have responded in ways which others may have not.  For example, David and his men once hid in a series of caves in a remote portion of Israel while on the run from King Saul, his father-in-law who wanted to hunt him down and kill him out of jealousy.  Saul’s army came close to catching David when Saul, alone at the time, just happened to enter the very same cave where David was hiding (read all about it in 1 Samuel 24!).  David’s advisors urged their captain to take advantage of this gift of Saul’s undefended presence, but David refused. Instead, David snuck up and cut off a piece of Saul’s robe.  Soon after, David confronted his pursuer and made it clear how he could have taken Saul’s life but did not, for he knew it was not right in the eyes of God. This was a turning point for Saul, who now realized the folly of his endeavor and recognized that God was with David. Saul then promised David he would no longer seek to harm him.  From that time on, the standing of David increased while the reign of Saul diminished.  Thus as it was for David and for us still today, it can be the little decisions of faithfulness that can make a big difference.

During this summer unlike any other, may we continue to seek to make good decisions, both large and small, that honor God.  Also in the midst of our schedules and obligations, may we still find times of rest and renewal as summers are intended to provide.  Please join us on-line at ramaporeformedchurch.org for worship and updates on how we, as a family of faith at the Ramapo Reformed Church, may continue to stay connected even during these times when we are finding ourselves to be apart. 

Blessings, 

Pastor Bill

Anchored in the past - Sharing Christ’s message today - Growing in     faith into the future!

March 19, 2020

Dear Friends:

We hope you are doing well during this time of uncertainty.  Accordingly, it is the upmost priority of the Ramapo Reformed Church to protect the safety and well-being of our parishioners and friends.  Therefore, Sunday services and all upcoming church events will be halted for the time being.

During this time of important social distancing, we are working to bring worship to you in the comfort and safety of your home.  The Ramapo Reformed Church has created a YouTube channel to assist you in doing so.  Weekly services will be recorded and available to view each Sunday.  These videos can be viewed via The Ramapo Reformed Church YouTube channel or by visiting our website (www.ramaporeformedchurch.org).  Information and links for the videos, our channel, and much more can be found on the "RRC From Home" page of our website.  We encourage those who are interested to spend some time checking out the page in the coming days.  You can access it from the navigation bar at the top of the website, or use the link on the home page.  Please let us know if you have any trouble accessing it.  We will continue to post pertinent updates on our website and FaceBook page. 

As we find ourselves in an unprecedented time, please know that although we may not be meeting together each week, we are still here for each other as a community of faith.  If you need to talk, or if there is anything that we may be able to assist you with, please do not hesitate to reach out.  You can leave a message at the church office (201-529-3075) or send us an email (ramaporeformedchurch@gmail.com). 

Blessings,

Pastor Bill