Follow His star
all year long, the light marking
his life, come into the darkness,
this struggling earth
Let his light guide
protect you on your walk,
on your journey
all your life
December 24, 2008
Welcome by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Christmas Eve service, 11:00pm,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Sunday, December 28, 2008
voices in the crowd
God’s message, the singular good news
told simultaneously, a cacophony,
a symphony of voices, as if
birds singing on a spring morn’
all raising praises,
sharing God’s grace
His power over Babel,
bringing Christ, His grace
His life, his sacrifice
to each, in their own tongue
December 28, 2008 (sermon printed 5/14/08)
Acts 2:1-21 [and Genesis 11:1-9]
and sermon, “Birds of Pentecost,
by the Reverend Canon Steven C. Bonsey,
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul,
Tremont Street,
Boston, MA
on radio 5/11/08 7:30AM, WBUR
www.stpaulboston.org/images/sermons/08-05-11%20Birds%20of%20Pentecost.doc
told simultaneously, a cacophony,
a symphony of voices, as if
birds singing on a spring morn’
all raising praises,
sharing God’s grace
His power over Babel,
bringing Christ, His grace
His life, his sacrifice
to each, in their own tongue
December 28, 2008 (sermon printed 5/14/08)
Acts 2:1-21 [and Genesis 11:1-9]
and sermon, “Birds of Pentecost,
by the Reverend Canon Steven C. Bonsey,
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul,
Tremont Street,
Boston, MA
on radio 5/11/08 7:30AM, WBUR
www.stpaulboston.org/images/sermons/08-05-11%20Birds%20of%20Pentecost.doc
The Symphony of Pentecost
The symphony of Pentecost
many voices singing, playing,
proclaiming the same melody
each playing a special part
the different voices, the same music
the glorious power, fire from heaven
completing the story of Babel,
the scattering of tongues,
brought together as one,
a symphony, enabled by the Spirit
giving to each tongues to speak
to reach all, to the ends of the earth
December 28, 2008 (sermon printed 5/14/08)
written while watching Fantasia
Acts 2:1-21 [and Genesis 11:1-9]
and sermon, “Birds of Pentecost,
by the Reverend Canon Steven C. Bonsey,
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul,
Tremont Street,
Boston, MA
on radio 5/11/08 7:30AM, WBUR
www.stpaulboston.org/images/sermons/08-05-11%20Birds%20of%20Pentecost.doc
many voices singing, playing,
proclaiming the same melody
each playing a special part
the different voices, the same music
the glorious power, fire from heaven
completing the story of Babel,
the scattering of tongues,
brought together as one,
a symphony, enabled by the Spirit
giving to each tongues to speak
to reach all, to the ends of the earth
December 28, 2008 (sermon printed 5/14/08)
written while watching Fantasia
Acts 2:1-21 [and Genesis 11:1-9]
and sermon, “Birds of Pentecost,
by the Reverend Canon Steven C. Bonsey,
The Cathedral Church of St. Paul,
Tremont Street,
Boston, MA
on radio 5/11/08 7:30AM, WBUR
www.stpaulboston.org/images/sermons/08-05-11%20Birds%20of%20Pentecost.doc
My Purpose
Lord, I pray you would guide me
as part of your plan
guide me to my purpose
the call you have specifically for my life
for my time on this earth
beginning now, for the rest of my days
Turning to you, to your call, let me hear
let me know, deep within me, the stirrings
the role, the part I am to play
to be your hands, your feet, your voice
to spread your message, your hope, your love
the salvation brought by your son, my brother, Jesus
to fight for justice, to raise awareness, to help
Lord, teach me what you would have me do
Give me the courage, the faith, to do just that
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
as part of your plan
guide me to my purpose
the call you have specifically for my life
for my time on this earth
beginning now, for the rest of my days
Turning to you, to your call, let me hear
let me know, deep within me, the stirrings
the role, the part I am to play
to be your hands, your feet, your voice
to spread your message, your hope, your love
the salvation brought by your son, my brother, Jesus
to fight for justice, to raise awareness, to help
Lord, teach me what you would have me do
Give me the courage, the faith, to do just that
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
God’s Plan
Our creator, our savior,
our sustainer, all together
a plan for the world
for each one of us
from the very beginning
from before the forming
of the world, His good creation
revealed in covenant,
by the law,
in the coming
of our savior,
the babe in the manger,
al made known
in God’s time
God’s plan
working itself out
from the very beginning
even now
in the lives of believers
living out God’s plan, His purpose
for each of our days
called by God
to fulfill his promise
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
our sustainer, all together
a plan for the world
for each one of us
from the very beginning
from before the forming
of the world, His good creation
revealed in covenant,
by the law,
in the coming
of our savior,
the babe in the manger,
al made known
in God’s time
God’s plan
working itself out
from the very beginning
even now
in the lives of believers
living out God’s plan, His purpose
for each of our days
called by God
to fulfill his promise
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Living Out His Plan
Trying, all of our days,
living out God’s plan
walking in his ways
crying out in this wilderness
sharing the truth,
the mystery, the love
of the risen Christ,
our father in heaven
readying our place
Living out His plan,
calling from deep within us
His Spirit speaking
revealed if we but listen
for that voice
calling to each of us
a divine plan
of righteousness, of salvation
worked out, day by day,
a journey of hope,
of love, of faith
walking, living out
His holy plan
for our world and
for our lives
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
living out God’s plan
walking in his ways
crying out in this wilderness
sharing the truth,
the mystery, the love
of the risen Christ,
our father in heaven
readying our place
Living out His plan,
calling from deep within us
His Spirit speaking
revealed if we but listen
for that voice
calling to each of us
a divine plan
of righteousness, of salvation
worked out, day by day,
a journey of hope,
of love, of faith
walking, living out
His holy plan
for our world and
for our lives
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
A Plan for the World
A plan, for our teaching, for our instruction
for the learning of the law, of the history, the place we play
the part each is given, in God’s time
to join the patriarchs, the saints, our savior, our God
A plan for our salvation, our redeeming
our reconciliation to the father,
the blood of the son, our brother
shed for us, for our saving
a gift beyond measure, of love
a servant king, sacrificed on the altar of wood
A plan for our toil, for our joining the work
the labor of the carpenter, the fishermen
spreading the story, the message
to the ends of the earth, the end of the age
A plan for a future, beside our brother
before the altar, the throne of our father
a place prepared for us, in that new city
light shimmering, light revealed
all in God’s time, a part of His plan
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
for the learning of the law, of the history, the place we play
the part each is given, in God’s time
to join the patriarchs, the saints, our savior, our God
A plan for our salvation, our redeeming
our reconciliation to the father,
the blood of the son, our brother
shed for us, for our saving
a gift beyond measure, of love
a servant king, sacrificed on the altar of wood
A plan for our toil, for our joining the work
the labor of the carpenter, the fishermen
spreading the story, the message
to the ends of the earth, the end of the age
A plan for a future, beside our brother
before the altar, the throne of our father
a place prepared for us, in that new city
light shimmering, light revealed
all in God’s time, a part of His plan
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
From the Very Beginning
From the very beginning,
God has been working out
His plan, His will,
for the world, for His people
moving beyond the law,
salvation by His word, by
His love, spilled out,
poured out, over all of creation
from the very beginning,
our Savior, our God, His Spirit
all working His one plan
a saving for all, light in the darkness
out of God’s grace, living
with us, walking among us
changing our lives, our future
redeemed, for all time
The law, weak as we are,
salvation, worked out, planned
from the beginning of time
revealed in Him, the Word
made flesh, made human,
At the right time
made real for all
love poured out, by His blood
a sacrifice, restoring all to God
as part of His perfect plan
from the very beginning
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
God has been working out
His plan, His will,
for the world, for His people
moving beyond the law,
salvation by His word, by
His love, spilled out,
poured out, over all of creation
from the very beginning,
our Savior, our God, His Spirit
all working His one plan
a saving for all, light in the darkness
out of God’s grace, living
with us, walking among us
changing our lives, our future
redeemed, for all time
The law, weak as we are,
salvation, worked out, planned
from the beginning of time
revealed in Him, the Word
made flesh, made human,
At the right time
made real for all
love poured out, by His blood
a sacrifice, restoring all to God
as part of His perfect plan
from the very beginning
December 28, 2008
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Galatians 4:4-7
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
and sermon, “What a Great Plan!”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Saturday, December 27, 2008
A Working Pier
a dock, a working pier
out into the estuary
the pull of the tides, swaying seaweed
barnacles, algae, the smell of rot
oil, diesel, rope, netting
lobster traps shining in the filtered sun,
boards of the dock, stories they could tell
a cloud of gulls, lapping the boats
heading out for game
out on the Bay,
the lee of the Shoals
even to the Grand Banks
a working pier, bearing witness
the steel of the fishermen
who have labored here
written December 27, 2008
titled 12/12/07
out into the estuary
the pull of the tides, swaying seaweed
barnacles, algae, the smell of rot
oil, diesel, rope, netting
lobster traps shining in the filtered sun,
boards of the dock, stories they could tell
a cloud of gulls, lapping the boats
heading out for game
out on the Bay,
the lee of the Shoals
even to the Grand Banks
a working pier, bearing witness
the steel of the fishermen
who have labored here
written December 27, 2008
titled 12/12/07
Magnificat
Joining Mary, her song
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 39,780+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Friday, December 26, 2008
Speak Zechariah
Speak Zechariah, what shall be his name
Who will this son be, your baby boy
what is his call, even now, speak Zechariah
What did the angel tell you, what have you discerned,
what can you reveal, after your silence?
He is to be the one, the one who was foretold
crying in the wilderness, making straight the way
making the way of the Lord straight,
telling the people the good news
The Messiah comes!
His is to be a prophet, bringing our people
those willing, back to God, to welcome him
who is coming, even now, coming to save
God, incarnate, blessing the world
offering us, even now, salvation
Who will this son be, your baby boy
what is his call, even now, speak Zechariah
What did the angel tell you, what have you discerned,
what can you reveal, after your silence?
He is to be the one, the one who was foretold
crying in the wilderness, making straight the way
making the way of the Lord straight,
telling the people the good news
The Messiah comes!
His is to be a prophet, bringing our people
those willing, back to God, to welcome him
who is coming, even now, coming to save
God, incarnate, blessing the world
offering us, even now, salvation
December 21 and 26, 2008
Speak Zechariah
Luke 1:5-25, 57-80
Luke 1:5-25
Luke 1:57-66
Luke 1:57-80
Luke 1:67-80
All of my poems and photographs are copyrighted
by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009,
2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for
usage. See all 40,350+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
A Prayer for Micah
A prayer for Micah
in the words, the power of his story
His words coming true
the promise of God
Christmas night, fulfilling his words
that remnant, the city, the people of David
from them has come, the word of God
alive, on the earth, from the virgin, a baby
to rule, to judge, to winnow and to save
The words of the prophets,
moving among the people
embodied in the humble babe,
the servant king,
who will return in victory,
just as the scripture foretells
December 21 and 26, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
in the words, the power of his story
His words coming true
the promise of God
Christmas night, fulfilling his words
that remnant, the city, the people of David
from them has come, the word of God
alive, on the earth, from the virgin, a baby
to rule, to judge, to winnow and to save
The words of the prophets,
moving among the people
embodied in the humble babe,
the servant king,
who will return in victory,
just as the scripture foretells
December 21 and 26, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Journeying to Bethlehem
Traveling, to that city, traveling far
guided by your light, by your nativity star
finding you in the manger bed
no room for them in the inn
to Bethlehem, to the stable
humble birth, royal child
We go to Bethlehem
each year, to reclaim the wonder
of that magical joyous night
when God came to be one
among us, to walk our earthly road
to give us salvation
always starting on the road to Bethlehem
the journey of our year
December 24, 2008
guided by your light, by your nativity star
finding you in the manger bed
no room for them in the inn
to Bethlehem, to the stable
humble birth, royal child
We go to Bethlehem
each year, to reclaim the wonder
of that magical joyous night
when God came to be one
among us, to walk our earthly road
to give us salvation
always starting on the road to Bethlehem
the journey of our year
December 24, 2008
Right Side Up
The story of Christmas
trying to turn the world
right side up, to turn from the power of might
to a world where sacrifice, where servanthood
were the meek, the forgotten
the least, the last, the lost
outsiders equal with the select
all are worthy, all brought inside
a king a babe
a throne a manger
women, shepherds, foreigners
all can be vessels for God’s message
A babe in swaddling clothes
will change the world
December 21 and 24, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
trying to turn the world
right side up, to turn from the power of might
to a world where sacrifice, where servanthood
were the meek, the forgotten
the least, the last, the lost
outsiders equal with the select
all are worthy, all brought inside
a king a babe
a throne a manger
women, shepherds, foreigners
all can be vessels for God’s message
A babe in swaddling clothes
will change the world
December 21 and 24, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Testify Elizabeth
Testify Elizabeth
to the Son of God
in the womb of the virgin
your cousin before you
Testify to the light, coming into the world
the incarnate God, growing within her
his harbinger within you
soon to be born, to be named
his life prophesized
to be the one in the desert
in the wilderness,
Oh, testify Elizabeth
to the coming of Christ
December 24, 2008
Luke 1:39-45
to the Son of God
in the womb of the virgin
your cousin before you
Testify to the light, coming into the world
the incarnate God, growing within her
his harbinger within you
soon to be born, to be named
his life prophesized
to be the one in the desert
in the wilderness,
Oh, testify Elizabeth
to the coming of Christ
December 24, 2008
Luke 1:39-45
A Christmas Night
It was the night in a stable
so long, long ago
the cattle were lowing,
the manger below
Mary and Joseph
keeping their watch
over the babe, under the light of a star
wrapped in swaddling clothes,
the shepherds kneeling at his bed
Wise men, journeying still
led by his star
a night like none other
to change the world
December 24, 2008
so long, long ago
the cattle were lowing,
the manger below
Mary and Joseph
keeping their watch
over the babe, under the light of a star
wrapped in swaddling clothes,
the shepherds kneeling at his bed
Wise men, journeying still
led by his star
a night like none other
to change the world
December 24, 2008
What Gifts Will I Bring
What gifts will I bring
to your manger bed,
to your throne, covered in hay
to lay by your feet, before you
All that I have, all that I am
my life, as Mary did
unto you I give me
to be your servant, your vessel
your disciple, in the world
bringing your message
word by word, out into the world
let your word fill my mouth
let me speak your truth, your love
let me be like John, crying in the wilderness
making straight your ways
December 24, 2008
Matthew 2:1-12
Luke 1:38
Luke 1:5-25, 57-80
Luke 1:5-25
Luke 1:57-66
Luke 1:57-80
Luke 1:67-80
to your manger bed,
to your throne, covered in hay
to lay by your feet, before you
All that I have, all that I am
my life, as Mary did
unto you I give me
to be your servant, your vessel
your disciple, in the world
bringing your message
word by word, out into the world
let your word fill my mouth
let me speak your truth, your love
let me be like John, crying in the wilderness
making straight your ways
December 24, 2008
Matthew 2:1-12
Luke 1:38
Luke 1:5-25, 57-80
Luke 1:5-25
Luke 1:57-66
Luke 1:57-80
Luke 1:67-80
What is His Name
What is his name, this son,
born in your old age
this boy in your arms,
ready for the covenant,
the ritual, Abraham’s covenant,
to be one of the people
Is he to share your name, father
to be set apart, as you were
to serve in the Temple
His name is John
a powerful word,
the mute speaking
his silence ended
What is his name,
one we will never forget
making ready for the king
making his way straight
crying out for righteousness
a voice in the wilderness
This is his name
December 24, 2008
Luke 1:5-25, 57-80
Luke 1:5-25
Luke 1:57-66
Luke 1:57-80
Luke 1:67-80
born in your old age
this boy in your arms,
ready for the covenant,
the ritual, Abraham’s covenant,
to be one of the people
Is he to share your name, father
to be set apart, as you were
to serve in the Temple
His name is John
a powerful word,
the mute speaking
his silence ended
What is his name,
one we will never forget
making ready for the king
making his way straight
crying out for righteousness
a voice in the wilderness
This is his name
December 24, 2008
Luke 1:5-25, 57-80
Luke 1:5-25
Luke 1:57-66
Luke 1:57-80
Luke 1:67-80
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
A Servant of the Lord
We, like Mary, servants of the Lord
people of faith, of the covenant
serving, rather than being served
following the example of our brother
our savior, our humble king
giving all, our lives, willingly
by our choice,
being a servant of the Lord
As we face the babe in the manger,
hearing the beating of angels wings
may we boldly sing as she did
of so long ago,
be it unto me
according to thy word
thy word alone, oh God
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
people of faith, of the covenant
serving, rather than being served
following the example of our brother
our savior, our humble king
giving all, our lives, willingly
by our choice,
being a servant of the Lord
As we face the babe in the manger,
hearing the beating of angels wings
may we boldly sing as she did
of so long ago,
be it unto me
according to thy word
thy word alone, oh God
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
Let it be with me
Let it be with me
as unto your word, your will,
your plans for me, Lord.
I submit my will to you
my brother, my savior
my father, my creator
Let your spirit grow within me
guide me where you will
to the work you would have me do
Let it be with me
as you would have it
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
as unto your word, your will,
your plans for me, Lord.
I submit my will to you
my brother, my savior
my father, my creator
Let your spirit grow within me
guide me where you will
to the work you would have me do
Let it be with me
as you would have it
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
By Your Will
By your will, oh God
I will go where you would lead me
that voice, the spirit, speaking
deep down within me
your voice, your word
this I will follow
I am your servant,
the clay of your wheel
mold me as you will
use me as you want
send me where you wish
Do unto me according
to your will
I am yours
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
I will go where you would lead me
that voice, the spirit, speaking
deep down within me
your voice, your word
this I will follow
I am your servant,
the clay of your wheel
mold me as you will
use me as you want
send me where you wish
Do unto me according
to your will
I am yours
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
To Be Like Mary
A prayer, a wish, a choice
to be like Mary, to choose
turn from this world, to the will of God
a grander plan, unseen
to cast my lot, my life
on the wind of the father
the path he alone can see
to trust my way, my journey
his guiding hand
to be his servant, my oil ready,
awake, for his coming
alert, to be worthy grain
to be harvest at the end of the age
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
to be like Mary, to choose
turn from this world, to the will of God
a grander plan, unseen
to cast my lot, my life
on the wind of the father
the path he alone can see
to trust my way, my journey
his guiding hand
to be his servant, my oil ready,
awake, for his coming
alert, to be worthy grain
to be harvest at the end of the age
December 23, 2008
Luke 1:38
By Your Word
Be unto me
according to, by your word
my life, charted by your will
my days turned over
submitted to you
Such was her response
the servant, the handmaiden
the mother of Christ, our savior
Without hesitation, no delay
Accepting the miraculous news
the visit of the angel
the virgin,
finding the favor of God
December 22, 2008
Luke 1:38
according to, by your word
my life, charted by your will
my days turned over
submitted to you
Such was her response
the servant, the handmaiden
the mother of Christ, our savior
Without hesitation, no delay
Accepting the miraculous news
the visit of the angel
the virgin,
finding the favor of God
December 22, 2008
Luke 1:38
A Mother’s Prayer - edited
A mother’s prayer
for her child, for her children
for healing, for grace
for the pain she carries
to be lifted from her weary shoulders
her tired feet, pacing the late night floor,
longing for sleep that will not come
hoping, always for a brighter future
to breath free, without weight
hanging, pulling her down
to see a change, a renewal
a mending of the tears,
the frayed edges of existence
of the interrupted aspects,
the missing pieces of her life
after disruptions and displacement
rebuke, and distance
A change of course, in the offing
in the near future, hopeful still
in the God who has listened,
heeded her call before
July 30, 2006
February 3, 2007 22:07
edited 12/22/08
for her child, for her children
for healing, for grace
for the pain she carries
to be lifted from her weary shoulders
her tired feet, pacing the late night floor,
longing for sleep that will not come
hoping, always for a brighter future
to breath free, without weight
hanging, pulling her down
to see a change, a renewal
a mending of the tears,
the frayed edges of existence
of the interrupted aspects,
the missing pieces of her life
after disruptions and displacement
rebuke, and distance
A change of course, in the offing
in the near future, hopeful still
in the God who has listened,
heeded her call before
July 30, 2006
February 3, 2007 22:07
edited 12/22/08
Sunday, December 21, 2008
By God’s Standards
Teaching a lesson, the same lesson
throughout the bible, his holy word
that the strong are not better, the rich, the powerful
the same in the creator’s eyes
by God’s standards, we are all equal
all are his children, all need his grace
all are our brothers, our neighbors,
fellow sinners, journeying this earth
Telling his wisdom, his law, his love
with unlikely people, the world upside down
bringing us to his standards, not the world’s
improbably messengers, heroes, characters on the stage
role reversals, changes of fortune, teaching
bringing us to his will, to his righteousness
to him, to a relationship with him
if we would but live not by the world’s standards
by not who the winners and losers are
but by God’s loving standards
December 21, 2008
Cain and Abel, Genesis 4:9-16
The Good Samaritan, Luke 10:25–37
Matthew 25:31-46
&
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
throughout the bible, his holy word
that the strong are not better, the rich, the powerful
the same in the creator’s eyes
by God’s standards, we are all equal
all are his children, all need his grace
all are our brothers, our neighbors,
fellow sinners, journeying this earth
Telling his wisdom, his law, his love
with unlikely people, the world upside down
bringing us to his standards, not the world’s
improbably messengers, heroes, characters on the stage
role reversals, changes of fortune, teaching
bringing us to his will, to his righteousness
to him, to a relationship with him
if we would but live not by the world’s standards
by not who the winners and losers are
but by God’s loving standards
December 21, 2008
Cain and Abel, Genesis 4:9-16
The Good Samaritan, Luke 10:25–37
Matthew 25:31-46
&
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Four Candles Burning
Shining together
around the still-dark candle
Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy
not yet fulfilled, revealed
the Christ candle still unlit
waiting, expectantly
for the moment his light
shines more fully
illumining our lives
the sanctuary aglow
with his royal light
waiting for Christmas night
December 21, 2008
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
around the still-dark candle
Hope, Peace, Love, and Joy
not yet fulfilled, revealed
the Christ candle still unlit
waiting, expectantly
for the moment his light
shines more fully
illumining our lives
the sanctuary aglow
with his royal light
waiting for Christmas night
December 21, 2008
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
A Plate Before the Crèche
Like the wise men, the cows,
the shepherds, the mother, the father
their praise, their prayer, their gifts
our offering plate
tithes and gifts
gathered in, from the congregation,
the faithful this Advent morn’,
brought onto your altar
placed before the crèche,
before your manger throne
Bless these gifts, Lord Jesus
help us to be your hands, your feet
living out your ministry in this place
on this our journey, from the stable
to the cross, to resurrection morn’
to our mansion in the sky
December 21, 2008
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
the shepherds, the mother, the father
their praise, their prayer, their gifts
our offering plate
tithes and gifts
gathered in, from the congregation,
the faithful this Advent morn’,
brought onto your altar
placed before the crèche,
before your manger throne
Bless these gifts, Lord Jesus
help us to be your hands, your feet
living out your ministry in this place
on this our journey, from the stable
to the cross, to resurrection morn’
to our mansion in the sky
December 21, 2008
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Friday, December 19, 2008
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Rest from Our Burdens
He offered them, He offers us still
rest from our burdens, our trials
our struggles in life
bring them, we who are weary
and lay them at his feet
He will give you rest,
all you who are tired
carrying your load alone
come to the Lord
take his yoke upon you
walk with him
through your days, your journey
with his yoke upon you
the burden is light
the load is shared
with our creator, our brother
our savior, our king
December 16, 2008
Matthew 11:28 and Matthew 11:29
rest from our burdens, our trials
our struggles in life
bring them, we who are weary
and lay them at his feet
He will give you rest,
all you who are tired
carrying your load alone
come to the Lord
take his yoke upon you
walk with him
through your days, your journey
with his yoke upon you
the burden is light
the load is shared
with our creator, our brother
our savior, our king
December 16, 2008
Matthew 11:28 and Matthew 11:29
Lay Down Your Burden
Take Up My Yoke
Choices, not thrust upon us
to let go of our troubles,
to turn to Christ, to lay our cares at his feet
to take the yoke of his servanthood
to be yoked with Christ
to walk with Christ
all the days of our lives
December 16, 2008
Matthew 11:28 and Matthew 11:29
Choices, not thrust upon us
to let go of our troubles,
to turn to Christ, to lay our cares at his feet
to take the yoke of his servanthood
to be yoked with Christ
to walk with Christ
all the days of our lives
December 16, 2008
Matthew 11:28 and Matthew 11:29
Monday, December 15, 2008
Returning to the Manger, to the Cross
Continually,
without ceasing,
prayerfully
returning to the manger, to the cross
returning to Bethlehem, to Calvary
to hold Advent, the manger,
to hold the cross, Good Friday
to return to the empty tomb, to Easter morning
to go into the upper room
to live as he lived, servant
to walk as he walked,
in your ways, Oh God
continually holding Him
in our hearts
walking with him
along the way
December 15, 2008
without ceasing,
prayerfully
returning to the manger, to the cross
returning to Bethlehem, to Calvary
to hold Advent, the manger,
to hold the cross, Good Friday
to return to the empty tomb, to Easter morning
to go into the upper room
to live as he lived, servant
to walk as he walked,
in your ways, Oh God
continually holding Him
in our hearts
walking with him
along the way
December 15, 2008
Antlers of Ice
The water formed antlers of ice
fingers maybe, layered, tallowed,
hand-dipped candles,
bits of frozen magic, in the mist
the splash above the torrent
velveteen antlers, ready for molting
rounded antlers, newborn
growing in the wintry air
December 14, 2008
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2008/12/antlers-of-ice.html
fingers maybe, layered, tallowed,
hand-dipped candles,
bits of frozen magic, in the mist
the splash above the torrent
velveteen antlers, ready for molting
rounded antlers, newborn
growing in the wintry air
December 14, 2008
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2008/12/antlers-of-ice.html
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved.
Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 30,830+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Colored Lights
Colored lights, of the season
no, not the Christmas tree lights,
the lights on the bushes out front,
though we have both
The colored lights of the sanctuary
stained glass windows aglow, active
a living church, busy, doing, being Christ
the work of ministry, of action
Rich, royal colors, projecting light outward
colored lights of the season
burning bright into the darkness
December 15, 2008
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
no, not the Christmas tree lights,
the lights on the bushes out front,
though we have both
The colored lights of the sanctuary
stained glass windows aglow, active
a living church, busy, doing, being Christ
the work of ministry, of action
Rich, royal colors, projecting light outward
colored lights of the season
burning bright into the darkness
December 15, 2008
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Testifying
Speaking, witnessing, testifying to the light
sharing its power, its glow
testifying to the light, bringing light
the love of God, into the darkness
calling out, in the wilderness
proclaim the coming, the light
dwelling, living among us
growing within us, people of faith
seeing the light and sharing its glow
December 14, 2008
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
sharing its power, its glow
testifying to the light, bringing light
the love of God, into the darkness
calling out, in the wilderness
proclaim the coming, the light
dwelling, living among us
growing within us, people of faith
seeing the light and sharing its glow
December 14, 2008
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Minding the Light
Seeing the Light,
minding the light itself
the flickering flame,
the light growing, coming
the light, the word, coming
returning, entering the world
waiting, expectantly, lovingly
the light itself,
not what the light illuminates
seeing the light, for itself
December 14, 2008
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
minding the light itself
the flickering flame,
the light growing, coming
the light, the word, coming
returning, entering the world
waiting, expectantly, lovingly
the light itself,
not what the light illuminates
seeing the light, for itself
December 14, 2008
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Witnessing
Witness, testify,
preach, proclaim
shout out, call out
into the world, the wilderness
speaking the truth
testifying to the light
to the coming Christ
the one, who was there
at the beginning, to save
to bring us redemption
all who repent, who accept
to witness to the light
make straight the way
the voice calling
make straight the way of the Lord
December 14, 2008
John 1:1-5
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
preach, proclaim
shout out, call out
into the world, the wilderness
speaking the truth
testifying to the light
to the coming Christ
the one, who was there
at the beginning, to save
to bring us redemption
all who repent, who accept
to witness to the light
make straight the way
the voice calling
make straight the way of the Lord
December 14, 2008
John 1:1-5
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Being a Stump
To be a stump, living
waiting, open, aware
underground, yearning
for God’s grace
depending on God, His time
new life, a new purpose
the promise of Isaiah
nascent within us,
when we, like Christ
submit our will
for God’s holy work
growing from out of the stump
December 14, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
and sermon, “What Good is a Stump?”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
December 7, 2008
waiting, open, aware
underground, yearning
for God’s grace
depending on God, His time
new life, a new purpose
the promise of Isaiah
nascent within us,
when we, like Christ
submit our will
for God’s holy work
growing from out of the stump
December 14, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
and sermon, “What Good is a Stump?”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
December 7, 2008
Called to Witness
Like John, at the banks of the Jordan
like Isaiah, the people in exile
anointed, to be witnesses, to testify
to bring the word, the light
focus on that one light, center
called to witness, carrying
seeing the light, minding the light
out into the darkness
witness to the love of God,
to the birth of the Christ child
to the meaning of this life
for us all, from the beginning
to the end of time.
December 14, 2008
John 1:1-5
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
like Isaiah, the people in exile
anointed, to be witnesses, to testify
to bring the word, the light
focus on that one light, center
called to witness, carrying
seeing the light, minding the light
out into the darkness
witness to the love of God,
to the birth of the Christ child
to the meaning of this life
for us all, from the beginning
to the end of time.
December 14, 2008
John 1:1-5
John 1:6-8, 19-28
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Isaiah 61:1-4
And Sermon, “Can I Get A Witness”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Saturday, December 13, 2008
A Prophetic Voice
A prophetic voice
a witness, to the light, to the coming
known before he was born
the coming of the Messiah
a voice, crying out, at the top of his lungs
repent, turn from your ways,
prepare the way of the Lord
his time is come, he is here already
the prophesy to be fulfilled
while we yet live
Christ is here, he is come
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
a witness, to the light, to the coming
known before he was born
the coming of the Messiah
a voice, crying out, at the top of his lungs
repent, turn from your ways,
prepare the way of the Lord
his time is come, he is here already
the prophesy to be fulfilled
while we yet live
Christ is here, he is come
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
He is Already Here
His answer, the prophetic, the voice
calling out in the wilderness
He is already here, among you,
living, the one who is to come,
already here, in this place
living with us, in this generation
growing, a man, God with us
already here, to bring his message
in a time known to God
already here, to bring us salvation
Repent, for the days of the Lord
are coming soon
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
calling out in the wilderness
He is already here, among you,
living, the one who is to come,
already here, in this place
living with us, in this generation
growing, a man, God with us
already here, to bring his message
in a time known to God
already here, to bring us salvation
Repent, for the days of the Lord
are coming soon
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
He is Among You
Already here, among them,
living, growing, becoming a man, ready
ready to begin his ministry, he coming
foretold, heralded, one crying in the wilderness
coming to save his people, to save the whole world
living then, an infant, the babe, a child, the man
the son, growing, soon
the word, the light,
come into the world
Here among you
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
living, growing, becoming a man, ready
ready to begin his ministry, he coming
foretold, heralded, one crying in the wilderness
coming to save his people, to save the whole world
living then, an infant, the babe, a child, the man
the son, growing, soon
the word, the light,
come into the world
Here among you
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Omnipotent, Vulnerable
The omnipotent, vulnerable
divine, incarnate
creator, clay
eternal, infant
the father, a son
Prince of Peace, the humble lamb
the king, a servant
Come to earth, heaven bound
the babe in the manger
He will return, oh so differently
December 12 and 13, 2008
John 1:1-5
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2008/12/omnipotent-vulnerable.html
divine, incarnate
creator, clay
eternal, infant
the father, a son
Prince of Peace, the humble lamb
the king, a servant
Come to earth, heaven bound
the babe in the manger
He will return, oh so differently
December 12 and 13, 2008
John 1:1-5
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2008/12/omnipotent-vulnerable.html
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved.
Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 30,890+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Return to Bethlehem
We must return, to Nazareth, to Bethlehem
to the river, the Jordan
to the time of the Christ, with us
before his birth, hopeful, waiting
wondering when the Messiah will come
when the prophecy of old will be fulfilled
Each year, Adventide
journeying with Mary, with Joseph
following His star, traveling far
leaving our fields, listening to the angels
Returning to Bethlehem
to fall to our knees
at his manger bed
December 12 and 13, 2008
to the river, the Jordan
to the time of the Christ, with us
before his birth, hopeful, waiting
wondering when the Messiah will come
when the prophecy of old will be fulfilled
Each year, Adventide
journeying with Mary, with Joseph
following His star, traveling far
leaving our fields, listening to the angels
Returning to Bethlehem
to fall to our knees
at his manger bed
December 12 and 13, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Testify to the Light
Testify to the light, the light of God
the father, the light of Christ
the son, the light of the Spirit
holy, living, growing,
within each believer
Testify to its warmth,
to its healing, to the love
glowing within the light
testify to the repentance
being ready, awake
for the coming of the light
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
the father, the light of Christ
the son, the light of the Spirit
holy, living, growing,
within each believer
Testify to its warmth,
to its healing, to the love
glowing within the light
testify to the repentance
being ready, awake
for the coming of the light
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
Witness to Light
We, like John,
standing in the wilderness
up to our waist in water
weighed down with the world
Like him, witness to Light
to the light of Christ, that wondrous gift
the saving grace of our risen Lord
be like him,
witness to the unseen light
the living light,
dancing in the hearts of the saints
a light to change the world
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
standing in the wilderness
up to our waist in water
weighed down with the world
Like him, witness to Light
to the light of Christ, that wondrous gift
the saving grace of our risen Lord
be like him,
witness to the unseen light
the living light,
dancing in the hearts of the saints
a light to change the world
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
Witness of unseen light
He was a witness, to the light,
coming into the world, crying out
a witness, testifying, preaching, exhorting,
calling all to repent, to turn from their sin
to prepare the way, for the Messiah
a witness of unseen light
heralding a day soon to come
his ministry begun
wading into the wilderness
falling into the water
raised to anointing
descended on by the dove
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
coming into the world, crying out
a witness, testifying, preaching, exhorting,
calling all to repent, to turn from their sin
to prepare the way, for the Messiah
a witness of unseen light
heralding a day soon to come
his ministry begun
wading into the wilderness
falling into the water
raised to anointing
descended on by the dove
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
10,000 poems
With the postings today, there are now 10,000 copies of my 3,350+ poems on the four sites I post to, almost daily. I thank God for this gift and for those who have come to my sites.
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Illumined in the womb
Before he was born,
before the Messiah
illumined in the womb,
filled by the Holy Spirit
a prophet born
Proclaim the Savior
into the world
baptizing in his name
with water to purify
repentance to offer
making the way straight
humbling the people
washing away they sins
opening their hearts
bringing his light
into the darkness
into the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
before the Messiah
illumined in the womb,
filled by the Holy Spirit
a prophet born
Proclaim the Savior
into the world
baptizing in his name
with water to purify
repentance to offer
making the way straight
humbling the people
washing away they sins
opening their hearts
bringing his light
into the darkness
into the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
His voice shining
His voice, rising, calling in the wilderness
preparing the way, of the coming Lord
his voice shining, bringing the light
into the world
in the river, in the outskirts
the people coming to him
Witnessing to Christ
before he was touched by dove
His voice, up on the lamp stand
shining light into the world
into the darkness
in the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
preparing the way, of the coming Lord
his voice shining, bringing the light
into the world
in the river, in the outskirts
the people coming to him
Witnessing to Christ
before he was touched by dove
His voice, up on the lamp stand
shining light into the world
into the darkness
in the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
Shining in wilderness
He was shining in the wilderness
his voice, his message, bringing, heralding
calling forth, calling, testifying to the light
announcing the way, of the coming Lord
the Messiah, the one told of old
the Christ, coming into the world
repent, change your ways
He is coming soon
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
his voice, his message, bringing, heralding
calling forth, calling, testifying to the light
announcing the way, of the coming Lord
the Messiah, the one told of old
the Christ, coming into the world
repent, change your ways
He is coming soon
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
A Community Prayer
The words, our father, forgive us,
give us, our daily bread
the words of a community
a communion, a loving family
praying, in unison, together,
kneeling, in faith
at the rail, in the pews
in the holy space
standing on holy ground
a prayer to our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
give us, our daily bread
the words of a community
a communion, a loving family
praying, in unison, together,
kneeling, in faith
at the rail, in the pews
in the holy space
standing on holy ground
a prayer to our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
Our Prayer
The prayer, which he taught
his words, for us to share,
for our prayer
The prayer he told us to pray
For the words connect us
join us, with him,
Our Father, humbly, reverently
falling on our knees
our hearts focused on the creator
the Father who loved us
who loves us still
who wants us home
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
his words, for us to share,
for our prayer
The prayer he told us to pray
For the words connect us
join us, with him,
Our Father, humbly, reverently
falling on our knees
our hearts focused on the creator
the Father who loved us
who loves us still
who wants us home
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
Our Father - 2
The words are “Our Father”
praying to God, claiming the divine
our Father, as Christ is our brother
co-heirs of his inheritance
to be welcomed home
into the room, the mansions
set aside for us, for us, his children
beloved, as is the Son
Our Father, close, intimate
familial connection
Like the father in the story,
the Prodigal Son
All of us welcomed, watched
cared for, loved
by Our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
praying to God, claiming the divine
our Father, as Christ is our brother
co-heirs of his inheritance
to be welcomed home
into the room, the mansions
set aside for us, for us, his children
beloved, as is the Son
Our Father, close, intimate
familial connection
Like the father in the story,
the Prodigal Son
All of us welcomed, watched
cared for, loved
by Our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
A Neighbor
Looking for definition
term of art, the bounds
the legal jargon
“Who is my neighbor?”
The plain meaning, legislative intent
looking for limits
An expansive response, a case study
a fact-based scenario
judging from the circumstances,
the details deciding the issue
the spirit of the law
in the definition of neighbor.
December 10, 2008
Luke 10:25-37
The lawyer’s question and
the story of the Good Samaritan
term of art, the bounds
the legal jargon
“Who is my neighbor?”
The plain meaning, legislative intent
looking for limits
An expansive response, a case study
a fact-based scenario
judging from the circumstances,
the details deciding the issue
the spirit of the law
in the definition of neighbor.
December 10, 2008
Luke 10:25-37
The lawyer’s question and
the story of the Good Samaritan
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Light, into the World
His light, living, growing,
becoming part of us,
his reflected light,
becoming our own
growing within us,
we are in the world
living in time and space
spiritual beings, human bodies
like him of God created
like him heaven-bound
being Christ, his life, his light
his light, out into the World
for all to see, up high,
on the lamp stand
projecting
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
becoming part of us,
his reflected light,
becoming our own
growing within us,
we are in the world
living in time and space
spiritual beings, human bodies
like him of God created
like him heaven-bound
being Christ, his life, his light
his light, out into the World
for all to see, up high,
on the lamp stand
projecting
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
Shining through us
His light, for the world
radiating, shining through us
out of our very skin, our pores
shining into the darkness
bringing light, real hope
to a world in darkness
living without faith,
without love, grounding
Shining through us, our word,
our action, telling his story
his sacrifice, his love
his saving grace
His light, shining through us
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
radiating, shining through us
out of our very skin, our pores
shining into the darkness
bringing light, real hope
to a world in darkness
living without faith,
without love, grounding
Shining through us, our word,
our action, telling his story
his sacrifice, his love
his saving grace
His light, shining through us
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
Reflected Light
Light to the world
his light, reflected in us,
through us, living within us
we the bushel, the lamp stand
depending on our choice
Reflect the light, his holy light
out into the darkness
helping others to see, hope
to find their way
back to the Father
their way home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
his light, reflected in us,
through us, living within us
we the bushel, the lamp stand
depending on our choice
Reflect the light, his holy light
out into the darkness
helping others to see, hope
to find their way
back to the Father
their way home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
Monday, December 08, 2008
Led to the cross
Each of us, if we are open, ready, prepared
led to the cross, the cross of Christ, his sacrifice
his blood shed; his body pierced
submitting himself for all of us
Led to the cross, the cross of salvation
the empty cross, the Christ raised, risen
from the dead, from Sheol,
conquering death, the grave, the cross
living now, eternal, at the right hand, the Father
Led to the cross, facing our cross, our yoke
submitting our will, just as he did
taking up our cross, our yoke
Led to the cross, to pick up where he left off
December 8, 2008
led to the cross, the cross of Christ, his sacrifice
his blood shed; his body pierced
submitting himself for all of us
Led to the cross, the cross of salvation
the empty cross, the Christ raised, risen
from the dead, from Sheol,
conquering death, the grave, the cross
living now, eternal, at the right hand, the Father
Led to the cross, facing our cross, our yoke
submitting our will, just as he did
taking up our cross, our yoke
Led to the cross, to pick up where he left off
December 8, 2008
Lead me to the cross
“Lead me to the cross”, his profile said
his statement to the world, written on the ether,
the ephemeral, the web
permanent as the bits, the bytes, the history,
Lead me to the cross, let me know your paths,
Oh my risen Lord
walk with me, beside me,
guide my wayward ways
correct me, coax me;
lead me in the yoke, your ways
Lead me to the cross, humble, servant king
let me be you, your fragrance, your hands
the feet of the savior, walking toward
walking into danger, into where there is need
give me the strength, the will,
to conform to your holy will
heeding the spirit, growing, within me
Teach me your ways,
Lead me to the cross
December 8, 2008
his statement to the world, written on the ether,
the ephemeral, the web
permanent as the bits, the bytes, the history,
Lead me to the cross, let me know your paths,
Oh my risen Lord
walk with me, beside me,
guide my wayward ways
correct me, coax me;
lead me in the yoke, your ways
Lead me to the cross, humble, servant king
let me be you, your fragrance, your hands
the feet of the savior, walking toward
walking into danger, into where there is need
give me the strength, the will,
to conform to your holy will
heeding the spirit, growing, within me
Teach me your ways,
Lead me to the cross
December 8, 2008
Sunday, December 07, 2008
The Shoot, the Root, the Vine
The stump, the remnant, the root of Jesse
eternal, the connection, the living vine
one with Him, with them, abiding
the shoot, long buried in the stump
fruits of the vine, each of us
bringing hope, fulfillment,
greater than he,
being light to the world
December 7, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
John 15:1-8
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
eternal, the connection, the living vine
one with Him, with them, abiding
the shoot, long buried in the stump
fruits of the vine, each of us
bringing hope, fulfillment,
greater than he,
being light to the world
December 7, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
John 15:1-8
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
You are the light of the world
“You are the light of the world.”
Such a statement, a calling
God speaking to man
we are the light of the world,
us, these clay vessels,
to illumine the darkness
to make straight the crooked paths
to push back the dark
to lead the world home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
Such a statement, a calling
God speaking to man
we are the light of the world,
us, these clay vessels,
to illumine the darkness
to make straight the crooked paths
to push back the dark
to lead the world home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
All
of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004,
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 31,490+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Our Wilderness
Our voices, our wilderness
like John, in the river
proclaiming the coming
of our Lord, the son of God
mightier than all
baptizer with God’s spirit
that the Holy Spirit
may live within us
The need to call to repentance
as strong now as then
in this our wilderness
in this our time
December 7, 2008
Mark 1:1-8
like John, in the river
proclaiming the coming
of our Lord, the son of God
mightier than all
baptizer with God’s spirit
that the Holy Spirit
may live within us
The need to call to repentance
as strong now as then
in this our wilderness
in this our time
December 7, 2008
Mark 1:1-8
Saturday, December 06, 2008
whispered in their dreams
the history of the world, the very future of life
changed in that moment, when their faith prevailed
when they were comforted, when they agreed
their lives forever altered when
the angels whispered in their dreams
a savior given life, given parents
the prophesy fulfilled
from the stump
will come God.
the peaceable kingdom will come.
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
changed in that moment, when their faith prevailed
when they were comforted, when they agreed
their lives forever altered when
the angels whispered in their dreams
a savior given life, given parents
the prophesy fulfilled
from the stump
will come God.
the peaceable kingdom will come.
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
By Angels Manifested
In dreams, by angels manifested
the fulfillment of prophesies of old
the line bringing forth, the savior of the world
a blessing in faith made real, given life
the faith of the couple, each taking risk,
believing, living in trust
bringing Christ to the world
through the words of the angels
whispered in their dreams
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
the fulfillment of prophesies of old
the line bringing forth, the savior of the world
a blessing in faith made real, given life
the faith of the couple, each taking risk,
believing, living in trust
bringing Christ to the world
through the words of the angels
whispered in their dreams
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
Mary and Joseph's Journey
Mary and Joseph’s journey,
so much more, much more
than traveling from Nazareth
to Bethlehem, the Temple
the holy city of David; Jesse’s shoot,
the root of Jesse, long buried
So much more, the distance
their journey, each one,
heavenly blessed, touched by angels
by the voice of angels blessed
called to be the agents, the servants
the means by the savior, coming to save
into the world, human, incarnate
living God, the babe she carried,
his first son, so far their journeys
together they traveled to
David’s city, the fulfillment to come
their journey, holy and right
leading us, in the Advent-tide
all of us pilgrims now with them
journeying to that stable, that manger bed
so much more, much more
than traveling from Nazareth
to Bethlehem, the Temple
the holy city of David; Jesse’s shoot,
the root of Jesse, long buried
So much more, the distance
their journey, each one,
heavenly blessed, touched by angels
by the voice of angels blessed
called to be the agents, the servants
the means by the savior, coming to save
into the world, human, incarnate
living God, the babe she carried,
his first son, so far their journeys
together they traveled to
David’s city, the fulfillment to come
their journey, holy and right
leading us, in the Advent-tide
all of us pilgrims now with them
journeying to that stable, that manger bed
edited
December 9, 2014
Mary
and Joseph’s Journey – v2
December
6, 2008
Mary
and Joseph’s Journey
Isaiah
11:1-9
Matthew
1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke
1:26-38 (Mary)
&
Matthew
1:18-25
3rd
Sunday of Advent
Advent
Sermon Series: The Voices of Advent, “I was there…”
Luke
1:26-38 (KJV)
Voices
of Advent – “I was there…”
dramas
by Ross Olson
sermon/message
– “Joseph”
(as
performed by Raymond A. Foss who, like Joseph,
is
an step-father and adoptive father)
children’s
message
–
mystery box –
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
Advent
wreath lighting
Prayer
of Thanksgiving –
by Raymond A. Foss
communion
worship
led by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon
blog
meditation
blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Stetson
Memorial United Methodist Church
2nd
Sunday of Advent
December
14, 2014
&
2nd
Sunday of Advent
Advent
Sermon Series: The Voices of Advent, “I was there…”
Luke
1:26-38 (KJV)
Voices
of Advent – “I was there…”
dramas
by Ross Olson
sermon/message
– “Mary”
(as
performed by Shyanne Foss,
who,
like Mary, is 14 years old)
children’s
message
–
mystery box – spool of thread and cloth
and needles
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
Advent
wreath lighting
Prayer
of Thanksgiving –
we
thank you Lord – v2
by Raymond A. Foss
communion
worship
led by Pastor Ruth Foss
Stetson
Memorial United Methodist Church
2nd
Sunday of Advent
December
7, 2014
&
1st
Sunday of Advent
Advent
Sermon Series: The Voices of Advent, “I was there…”
Sacred
Dance Introit
Michael
W. Smith’s
“Intro
and Prepare Ye the Way”
from
his New Hallelujah album
Advent
wreath lighting
Prayer
of Thanksgiving –
by
Jeanie Goode
Luke
1:19-20a
children’s
message
–
mystery box –
envelope
with note
Voices
of Advent – “I was there…”
dramas
by Ross Olson
sermon/message
– “Angel Gabriel”
(as
performed by Terry Pettengill)
worship
led by Pastor Ruth Foss
Stetson
Memorial United Methodist Church
1st
Sunday of Advent
November
30, 2014
All of my
poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002,
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.
All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray
Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)
for usage. See all 40,380+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Oak, Pine, and Grasses
Shades of browns, driving by
mile on mile, below the greens of the pines
oak, pine, and grasses,
leaves, needles, blades
all creating a single color,
brown below the green
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , NH
mile on mile, below the greens of the pines
oak, pine, and grasses,
leaves, needles, blades
all creating a single color,
brown below the green
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , NH
Granite Hay Bales
The field, positioned, placed
granite hay bales, as if harvested
grown from the soil, the crop of the farmer
bundled and situated
waiting to be hauled and stored
in the barn, for winter feed
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
granite hay bales, as if harvested
grown from the soil, the crop of the farmer
bundled and situated
waiting to be hauled and stored
in the barn, for winter feed
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
Blank Space
Blank space, stripped
up to about my shoulder
all bare, up to where they can reach
once the winter snow falls
blank below, brown
green above
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
the line where deer reach
up to about my shoulder
all bare, up to where they can reach
once the winter snow falls
blank below, brown
green above
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
the line where deer reach
Reaching Out
A birch, fallen, extending
reaching out, over the still-running water
the bank starting to freeze, the water moving
down below the highway
bright white, yearning
reaching out over the water
catching the cooling light
December sun,
before wintertime
December 5, 2008
Contoocook River
near Hatfield Road,
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
reaching out, over the still-running water
the bank starting to freeze, the water moving
down below the highway
bright white, yearning
reaching out over the water
catching the cooling light
December sun,
before wintertime
December 5, 2008
Contoocook River
near Hatfield Road,
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
Tails
a small patch, a cluster
cattails in the median
glowing, glistening
December sun, midday
Ready to burst open
like milkweed pods
to spread the seeds
to the four winds
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Hopkinton, NH
cattails in the median
glowing, glistening
December sun, midday
Ready to burst open
like milkweed pods
to spread the seeds
to the four winds
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Hopkinton, NH
Footprints in the Snow
The wind, waves, in the frozen surface
dark and light, sculptured, textured
like footprints in the snow
a herd of steps, of feet
An ocean of footfalls, a stampede
wave on wave, across
the new-frozen surface
of the still lake below
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Concord, NH
dark and light, sculptured, textured
like footprints in the snow
a herd of steps, of feet
An ocean of footfalls, a stampede
wave on wave, across
the new-frozen surface
of the still lake below
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Concord, NH
Snow between the rows
Snow, a melting dusting
layered, in the December sun
mud, ruts, the stubble
snow between the rows, the stalks
the dirt changing, darkening
becoming wet, mud
straw stalks, cut by the reaping
long grey, gone to market
snow, for the moment frozen
between the fallow rows
December 5, 2008
corn field, Clinton Street,
Rte 13, Concord, NH
layered, in the December sun
mud, ruts, the stubble
snow between the rows, the stalks
the dirt changing, darkening
becoming wet, mud
straw stalks, cut by the reaping
long grey, gone to market
snow, for the moment frozen
between the fallow rows
December 5, 2008
corn field, Clinton Street,
Rte 13, Concord, NH
The Purr of a Cat
Sitting there, the office
petting, stroking his orange fur
she spoke of a longing, a desire
the purr of a cat, remembering
wishing for its return
that memory, that quality
comfort at home, of belonging
speaking lovingly to her
through, in, by
the purr of a cat
December 5, 2008
Moe
petting, stroking his orange fur
she spoke of a longing, a desire
the purr of a cat, remembering
wishing for its return
that memory, that quality
comfort at home, of belonging
speaking lovingly to her
through, in, by
the purr of a cat
December 5, 2008
Moe
Thursday, December 04, 2008
A Seam in the Sky
Looking upward, memories
looking down, below my feet
outward, beyond my vision
a seam in the cold December sky
cut, white, ivory, in the darkening clouds
an echo, a memory
fissured cracks in a Minnesota lake
thirty-seven years ago
Tendrils to the seam, like fingers of frost
feathering the edges, the light seeping
coming through the moving line
reaching beyond my vision
driving north under glowering skies
December 4, 2008
looking down, below my feet
outward, beyond my vision
a seam in the cold December sky
cut, white, ivory, in the darkening clouds
an echo, a memory
fissured cracks in a Minnesota lake
thirty-seven years ago
Tendrils to the seam, like fingers of frost
feathering the edges, the light seeping
coming through the moving line
reaching beyond my vision
driving north under glowering skies
December 4, 2008
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Mary’s Face in the Dark
Her face, the virgin Mary
glowing in the night,
shining in the kitchen window
illuminating the room,
after midnight
The artistry of the painter
captured in the palette,
the simple figure
in the darkened night
Her faith shining
December 2, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
above the breezeway
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
glowing in the night,
shining in the kitchen window
illuminating the room,
after midnight
The artistry of the painter
captured in the palette,
the simple figure
in the darkened night
Her faith shining
December 2, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
above the breezeway
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
The Cold
I feel the cold
closing in, seeping, oozing
slowly coming in
through the walls, the floor,
the panes of tempered glass
the cold, the damp, the tongues of winter
relentlessly striving, seeking
coming into the house
through the open doorways,
the seams, the cracks, the thin edges,
through the metal, the wood, the glass
seeking to come in,
where it is warm
December 2, 2008
closing in, seeping, oozing
slowly coming in
through the walls, the floor,
the panes of tempered glass
the cold, the damp, the tongues of winter
relentlessly striving, seeking
coming into the house
through the open doorways,
the seams, the cracks, the thin edges,
through the metal, the wood, the glass
seeking to come in,
where it is warm
December 2, 2008
In Nature
in the touch of my daughters’ fingers
in the brush of our cats’ fur
in the swirl of leaves falling to the ground
the dance of snowflakes, driven by a hidden hand
in the flickering stars in the night sky
the fading warmth of the sun at twilight
in nature, in memory, in the senses
I feel the closeness, the direction, the precision
of the creator, the master, the potter,
shaping, conjuring, bringing into being
out of nothingness a world, a universe
order out of chaos, harmonious
in nature revealed, the grace of God
December 2, 2008
in the brush of our cats’ fur
in the swirl of leaves falling to the ground
the dance of snowflakes, driven by a hidden hand
in the flickering stars in the night sky
the fading warmth of the sun at twilight
in nature, in memory, in the senses
I feel the closeness, the direction, the precision
of the creator, the master, the potter,
shaping, conjuring, bringing into being
out of nothingness a world, a universe
order out of chaos, harmonious
in nature revealed, the grace of God
December 2, 2008
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Happiness Inside
Happiness grows within us
a sense of being, of sharing, of true blessing,
no matter our circumstances
Happiness dies within us
when we linger, ponder, on injustices, slights,
on the problems of life
Happiness soars within us
when we look to the positive
when we center on Christ
when we remember
Happiness is a choice
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
a sense of being, of sharing, of true blessing,
no matter our circumstances
Happiness dies within us
when we linger, ponder, on injustices, slights,
on the problems of life
Happiness soars within us
when we look to the positive
when we center on Christ
when we remember
Happiness is a choice
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
She Cannot Make You Mad
Wisdom in the scripture, of the nature of blessing
an internal feeling, something within
not something we have done to us
yes we are blessed, the past tense of the word to bless
but we are blessed, a state of being blessed,
by the workings of our hearts
And, just as is true of happiness, the same is true
of anger, of being mad.
“She cannot make you mad;
it is your choice to be mad.”
So is one of the conversations in our house
If only the wisdom of the scriptures
could be bottled. Far harder to read,
and to internalize its truths.
For me too.
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
an internal feeling, something within
not something we have done to us
yes we are blessed, the past tense of the word to bless
but we are blessed, a state of being blessed,
by the workings of our hearts
And, just as is true of happiness, the same is true
of anger, of being mad.
“She cannot make you mad;
it is your choice to be mad.”
So is one of the conversations in our house
If only the wisdom of the scriptures
could be bottled. Far harder to read,
and to internalize its truths.
For me too.
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
Happiness Within
Happiness, not something external
a state of being, deep within, within ourselves
living with us, walking with us, our hearts
blessed are the… ones who can accept blessing
who can find happiness within
a state of being, deep within, within ourselves
living with us, walking with us, our hearts
blessed are the… ones who can accept blessing
who can find happiness within
November 30, 2008
Happiness Within
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the
Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the
Sermon on the Mount
All of my
poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002,
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.
All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for
usage. See all 40,290+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Blessed Within
We are blessed, no so much from the external signs
blessed within, within our hearts, our spirits
the gifts manifested, visible, when we are aware, conscious
feel blessed within. Blessed are the present, the awake,
those able to see the blessings heaped, given
joyful in their moment, in their present
enjoying the presence of God
walking with them through life
blessed within, within our hearts, our spirits
the gifts manifested, visible, when we are aware, conscious
feel blessed within. Blessed are the present, the awake,
those able to see the blessings heaped, given
joyful in their moment, in their present
enjoying the presence of God
walking with them through life
edited December 4, 2015
Blessed Within – v2
November 30, 2008
Blessed Within
edited December 4, 2015
Happiness Within – v2
November 30, 2008
Happiness Within
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the
Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the
Sermon on the Mount
All of my
poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002,
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.
All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for
usage. See all 40,290+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
The Waiting Season
The season of Advent
the waiting season, out in the winter cold
spending time in community, in fellowship
in your adorned sanctuary, remembering
the star, the couple, called by the angels,
the stable, the manger, his lowly bed,
shepherds in the pasture, wise men studying the stars
all parts of the story, the beginning
the word become flesh
But the story of waiting is for another day
another moment yet to come
when the skies will darken and thunder roars
when the trumpets will sound heralding
the return of the king
to judge and to bring into the garner
the faithful, those on watch, those awake
prepared in this waiting season
for the reaping time
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the waiting season, out in the winter cold
spending time in community, in fellowship
in your adorned sanctuary, remembering
the star, the couple, called by the angels,
the stable, the manger, his lowly bed,
shepherds in the pasture, wise men studying the stars
all parts of the story, the beginning
the word become flesh
But the story of waiting is for another day
another moment yet to come
when the skies will darken and thunder roars
when the trumpets will sound heralding
the return of the king
to judge and to bring into the garner
the faithful, those on watch, those awake
prepared in this waiting season
for the reaping time
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Waiting - 2
Waiting, in our hearts, for our king
born in the manger, living in heaven
at the right hand of God
Waiting, in our lives, for our brother
the servant, the sacrifice
dying on the cross, rising to glory
Waiting, in our faith, for our savior
to return in triumph, at the trumpet’s call
to be ready, awake, on watch,
being Christ to the world
in the waiting, doing his work
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
born in the manger, living in heaven
at the right hand of God
Waiting, in our lives, for our brother
the servant, the sacrifice
dying on the cross, rising to glory
Waiting, in our faith, for our savior
to return in triumph, at the trumpet’s call
to be ready, awake, on watch,
being Christ to the world
in the waiting, doing his work
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Anticipation
Anticipation, this Advent season
waiting, wondering, when will that time come
watching the calendar, for the coming of the babe
the gift of Christ’s birth, relived each year
waiting wonder, when will that time come
watching the signs, the changing of the days,
the coming of the King, in victory
at that time unknown, known only to God
waiting, expectantly, urgent, awake, doing his work,
on guard for that coming day, anticipation for the hour
when Christ comes in glory, to bring his people home
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
waiting, wondering, when will that time come
watching the calendar, for the coming of the babe
the gift of Christ’s birth, relived each year
waiting wonder, when will that time come
watching the signs, the changing of the days,
the coming of the King, in victory
at that time unknown, known only to God
waiting, expectantly, urgent, awake, doing his work,
on guard for that coming day, anticipation for the hour
when Christ comes in glory, to bring his people home
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Waiting Expectantly
Waiting expectantly, for the Christ child
the babe of Bethlehem, grown and risen
his first life on earth complete
Risen and living at the right hand
with the father in heaven
Waiting expectantly for this coming
not knowing the time of his return
Waiting, awake, watching for the signs
that which has been foretold
just as we watch for the signs in nature
so must we be mindful, watching
waiting expectantly for the king to come
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the babe of Bethlehem, grown and risen
his first life on earth complete
Risen and living at the right hand
with the father in heaven
Waiting expectantly for this coming
not knowing the time of his return
Waiting, awake, watching for the signs
that which has been foretold
just as we watch for the signs in nature
so must we be mindful, watching
waiting expectantly for the king to come
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Expectantly Waiting
Expectantly waiting, for Christmas
for the Christ child, the songs, the hymns,
the pageant, the story, shepherds, angels,
wise men three, joining, coming together
around the lowly manger bed
Sharing these moments in family, in community
expectantly waiting in advent
remembering the story of our king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
for the Christ child, the songs, the hymns,
the pageant, the story, shepherds, angels,
wise men three, joining, coming together
around the lowly manger bed
Sharing these moments in family, in community
expectantly waiting in advent
remembering the story of our king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Anticipation – acrostic
Angels sang of your coming
None can stand before you my king
Teach me to wait expectantly for your second coming
Immanuel, God with us, resting in a manger
Come let us behold him, Christ the King
I fall to my knees, preparing, watching, awake to the appointed hour
Prophets foretold of your holy birth
All of creation will sing praises to the king
Trumpets and thunder will herald your coming on the clouds
I Am returning to claim his children
Outer darkness for those who deny his majesty
Now is the time to prepare, to be ready for our God
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
None can stand before you my king
Teach me to wait expectantly for your second coming
Immanuel, God with us, resting in a manger
Come let us behold him, Christ the King
I fall to my knees, preparing, watching, awake to the appointed hour
Prophets foretold of your holy birth
All of creation will sing praises to the king
Trumpets and thunder will herald your coming on the clouds
I Am returning to claim his children
Outer darkness for those who deny his majesty
Now is the time to prepare, to be ready for our God
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Journey of Waiting
Walking, reading, pondering, waiting
a journey of waiting, expectant, hopeful
of his miraculous birth, the story of his life
for his coming, to rescue the faithful
to bring us to our heavenly home
expectantly waiting for Christmas
waiting expectantly for his second coming
so is the journey of waiting
this advent and all year long
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
a journey of waiting, expectant, hopeful
of his miraculous birth, the story of his life
for his coming, to rescue the faithful
to bring us to our heavenly home
expectantly waiting for Christmas
waiting expectantly for his second coming
so is the journey of waiting
this advent and all year long
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
The Nativity Evolving
Over the days, the journey of Advent
the nativity evolving,
the scene coming into focus
beginning with the couple, expectant
alone, in the rented stable
away from family, from home
waiting, under his star, for a son,
foretold by angels, by prophets
Shepherds watching their sheep, expectant
on guard for predators, for robbers
awake for trouble, called by herald angels
to the babe newborn in the manger
Wise men, long before his birthing,
following a star, in the west,
leading them and their gifts
to his lowly bed
All of us, through the ages
drawn to the bed of the newborn king
our savior come into the world
to set us free
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the nativity evolving,
the scene coming into focus
beginning with the couple, expectant
alone, in the rented stable
away from family, from home
waiting, under his star, for a son,
foretold by angels, by prophets
Shepherds watching their sheep, expectant
on guard for predators, for robbers
awake for trouble, called by herald angels
to the babe newborn in the manger
Wise men, long before his birthing,
following a star, in the west,
leading them and their gifts
to his lowly bed
All of us, through the ages
drawn to the bed of the newborn king
our savior come into the world
to set us free
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Crispness
A crispness to the air, the sky
the sounds of leaves underfoot
of the wheels running on the pavement
the snap of the flag by the bank
the feel of the air in my lungs
the smell of a wood fire
warming a house nearby
a day before the first snow,
a crispness to the world
November 30, 2008
the sounds of leaves underfoot
of the wheels running on the pavement
the snap of the flag by the bank
the feel of the air in my lungs
the smell of a wood fire
warming a house nearby
a day before the first snow,
a crispness to the world
November 30, 2008
The Advent Journey
Following the star,
we all, like them, following the star
the light, the Word
coming into the world
living with us, to be among us
a journey of waiting, with wonder
experiencing anew
that which they beheld
the star of his rising,
his bright birth star
Bringing that light
into the sanctuary, into our hearts
preparing ourselves, awake, on watch
for the babe in the manger
the king on the clouds
that is our Advent journey
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
we all, like them, following the star
the light, the Word
coming into the world
living with us, to be among us
a journey of waiting, with wonder
experiencing anew
that which they beheld
the star of his rising,
his bright birth star
Bringing that light
into the sanctuary, into our hearts
preparing ourselves, awake, on watch
for the babe in the manger
the king on the clouds
that is our Advent journey
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Mary and Joseph
The chosen pair, to be the parents
alone, in his ancestral home
journeying to Bethlehem
coming to this place, to the manger bed
the stable, all that was available
alone in that place, man and woman
Waiting, as we wait, them for his birth
we for his return, waiting expectantly
for the unknown future, prophesized
but as yet unknown, mysterious,
by faith alone prepared
on watch, awake, on guard
for the coming of the king
his parents, his disciples
all the people of the earth
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
alone, in his ancestral home
journeying to Bethlehem
coming to this place, to the manger bed
the stable, all that was available
alone in that place, man and woman
Waiting, as we wait, them for his birth
we for his return, waiting expectantly
for the unknown future, prophesized
but as yet unknown, mysterious,
by faith alone prepared
on watch, awake, on guard
for the coming of the king
his parents, his disciples
all the people of the earth
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Be Strong in the Lord
Be Strong in the Lord
so said the church’s sign
by the roadside, many weeks gone by
What did the drivers think
as they raced by, busy in their lives
Did they think about the scripture
the admonition, the urging
to be resolute, not in ourselves;
not self-made men, women
Be strong in the Lord alone
for he is worthy of our praise
November 30, 2008
Ephesians 6:10
Hillside Baptist Church sign
Pembroke, NH
so said the church’s sign
by the roadside, many weeks gone by
What did the drivers think
as they raced by, busy in their lives
Did they think about the scripture
the admonition, the urging
to be resolute, not in ourselves;
not self-made men, women
Be strong in the Lord alone
for he is worthy of our praise
November 30, 2008
Ephesians 6:10
Hillside Baptist Church sign
Pembroke, NH
A Light Burning in the Window
Shining down on them
expectantly waiting, the coming
the birth of their child,
a son foretold,
by prophets, by angels
A light burning in the window
falling on the expectant couple
the father, the mother
those called by the angels
Appointed by God
to birth our Savior
reminding us all
of his birth star
November 30, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
expectantly waiting, the coming
the birth of their child,
a son foretold,
by prophets, by angels
A light burning in the window
falling on the expectant couple
the father, the mother
those called by the angels
Appointed by God
to birth our Savior
reminding us all
of his birth star
November 30, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
Coming to this place
Coming to this place
to the sanctuary, the manger bed
a journey of Mary, of Joseph,
of the shepherds, the Magi,
of you, of me, all coming to this place
to see the king in the manger bed
written on November 30, 2008
on the November 29, 2008 Greening of the Church service,
on the November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
to the sanctuary, the manger bed
a journey of Mary, of Joseph,
of the shepherds, the Magi,
of you, of me, all coming to this place
to see the king in the manger bed
written on November 30, 2008
on the November 29, 2008 Greening of the Church service,
on the November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
The Advent Wreath
A circle of wire, of wood, of metal
garland of ivy, of fir, of holly, of poinsettias
unending love, stages of our journey
leading to the Christ child
the center, the hub, the circle
around which our journey revolves
leading us to the center,
to his bright holy light
his candle to share
the light with the world
written November 30, 2008
November 29 Greening the Church service
November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
garland of ivy, of fir, of holly, of poinsettias
unending love, stages of our journey
leading to the Christ child
the center, the hub, the circle
around which our journey revolves
leading us to the center,
to his bright holy light
his candle to share
the light with the world
written November 30, 2008
November 29 Greening the Church service
November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Advent Season
The season, Advent season
the season of waiting, of hope,
expectancy, longing, remembering
the babe in the manger,
the King, riding on the clouds
The song of angels, the bleat of the lamb
the feet of the Magi, journeying there
The sound of trumpets blast, cymbals and thunder
all a part of the season, Advent season
preparing, expectant, waiting, longing
both the babe and the King
our savior, our brother, our Lord
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the season of waiting, of hope,
expectancy, longing, remembering
the babe in the manger,
the King, riding on the clouds
The song of angels, the bleat of the lamb
the feet of the Magi, journeying there
The sound of trumpets blast, cymbals and thunder
all a part of the season, Advent season
preparing, expectant, waiting, longing
both the babe and the King
our savior, our brother, our Lord
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Keep Awake
Keep awake, your oil ready
watch, for the coming of the Lord
for we know not the time or place
when he will return, to judge, to save
anticipation, expectant, watching, waiting
for that wondrous day, in glory, in praise
with the sounds of thunder, of trumpets
Shouting across the sky
Keep awake, active, working, serving
ready for the coming of that day
the return of the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
Mark 13:32-37
and Disciplines for November 30, 2008
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
watch, for the coming of the Lord
for we know not the time or place
when he will return, to judge, to save
anticipation, expectant, watching, waiting
for that wondrous day, in glory, in praise
with the sounds of thunder, of trumpets
Shouting across the sky
Keep awake, active, working, serving
ready for the coming of that day
the return of the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
Mark 13:32-37
and Disciplines for November 30, 2008
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A City Prepared
A city prepared, a foreign land
made ready for us
unseen by the saints
waiting, prepared for them
the reward of faith
that which is hoped for
that which is unseen
made ready and waiting
for you and for me
if we are ready at His coming
humble and true
November 30, 2008
Hebrews 11:1-16
Upper Room devotional November 30, 2008
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=30&year=2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
made ready for us
unseen by the saints
waiting, prepared for them
the reward of faith
that which is hoped for
that which is unseen
made ready and waiting
for you and for me
if we are ready at His coming
humble and true
November 30, 2008
Hebrews 11:1-16
Upper Room devotional November 30, 2008
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=30&year=2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Passing His Cup
Each time, each of us,
passing His cup, drinking
from that one cup, His offering
His singular sacrifice
shedding His blood, giving His body
We share His cup
Passed down from apostle to disciple
from sinner to sinner
down through the ages, the generations
passing His cup of salvation
that all may drink, to all,
to the ends of the earth
November 30, 2008
Communion, first Sunday of Advent
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
passing His cup, drinking
from that one cup, His offering
His singular sacrifice
shedding His blood, giving His body
We share His cup
Passed down from apostle to disciple
from sinner to sinner
down through the ages, the generations
passing His cup of salvation
that all may drink, to all,
to the ends of the earth
November 30, 2008
Communion, first Sunday of Advent
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Red and Green
The red of His blood, the green of hope, for us
of the promise of the sheltered valley
our future foretold
by the prophets of old
Red and green coloring your church
the sanctuary alive
ready for your birth
the coming of our King.
written November 30, 2008
November 29, 2008
Greening of the Church service
and November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
of the promise of the sheltered valley
our future foretold
by the prophets of old
Red and green coloring your church
the sanctuary alive
ready for your birth
the coming of our King.
written November 30, 2008
November 29, 2008
Greening of the Church service
and November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Candle of Peace
A first candle lit,
a candle of peace
beginning our journey
a light burning in that circle
never ending, glowing
committing ourselves
to be a light, that light
in this world,
not just this sanctuary,
this community, anticipating too
remembering his life, his promise
of eternal peace
November 30, 2008
Lighting of the first Advent candle,
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
a candle of peace
beginning our journey
a light burning in that circle
never ending, glowing
committing ourselves
to be a light, that light
in this world,
not just this sanctuary,
this community, anticipating too
remembering his life, his promise
of eternal peace
November 30, 2008
Lighting of the first Advent candle,
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A New Year Begun
This day, a new year begun
Advent, the season of waiting
slowing our pace, even amid the holiday bustle
starting anew, centering us
on the light, coming into the world
waiting with anticipation, reminding us
the birth of our savior, his promise to come
to return, at a time of the father’s choosing
to set us free.
A new year begun, in a sanctuary colored in red, in green
in gold, in purple, readied for the coming child
the king come to earth, the son sacrificed
the gift of the father, to return in glory
waiting, watching, ready, we hope
for that day unknown, known to God alone
when our world will end
and his reign is at hand
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Advent, the season of waiting
slowing our pace, even amid the holiday bustle
starting anew, centering us
on the light, coming into the world
waiting with anticipation, reminding us
the birth of our savior, his promise to come
to return, at a time of the father’s choosing
to set us free.
A new year begun, in a sanctuary colored in red, in green
in gold, in purple, readied for the coming child
the king come to earth, the son sacrificed
the gift of the father, to return in glory
waiting, watching, ready, we hope
for that day unknown, known to God alone
when our world will end
and his reign is at hand
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Journey to Find Christ
Like them, a journey, each of us,
in our own time, our own ways
a journey to find Christ
walking as the Magi, the wise men,
following His star, being faithful,
waiting, expectant of the remembrance
the birthing of his life, down in a manger bed
Expectant too, the return of our king
trying, hopeful, to be awake, to be ready
anticipating the annual memory of the babe
the daily living out, our oil ready,
awake, on watch
our journey of life, of faith
preparing for our king
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
in our own time, our own ways
a journey to find Christ
walking as the Magi, the wise men,
following His star, being faithful,
waiting, expectant of the remembrance
the birthing of his life, down in a manger bed
Expectant too, the return of our king
trying, hopeful, to be awake, to be ready
anticipating the annual memory of the babe
the daily living out, our oil ready,
awake, on watch
our journey of life, of faith
preparing for our king
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Advent – haiku
came into the world
God as man, one flesh alive
waiting for the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
God as man, one flesh alive
waiting for the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Advent – v3
Anticipating the coming of the Lord
Divine made flesh
Voices of angels calling
Eternal love in human form
Nativity, humble and mild
Tell the world, the savior comes!
November 29, 2008
Divine made flesh
Voices of angels calling
Eternal love in human form
Nativity, humble and mild
Tell the world, the savior comes!
November 29, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
In Thanksgiving
In thanksgiving, we pause, we slow ourselves
we gather together, family and friends,
reflecting, memories rich with our collective past
our shared times together, washing over us
thinking of our blessings, at harvest, in thanksgiving
Our provision, day by day, our health, our family,
our friends, our nation, this world, troubled as it is
So much for which to be thankful, so many gifts
given by our creator, our savior, our savior,
our sustainer, our God
Like the first Thanksgiving, gathered together
around a table of your bounty, the gifts of the earth
grain and drink, meat and game, a harvest
Bowing our heads, our hearts as one,
joining in prayer, for the gifts we share
Remembering too, those who are not home
thankful for their service, for their sacrifice
those who stand in harm’s way on our behalf
thankful too for those on guard, for all who serve us
whether in foreign fields or in fire houses down the street
For you oh God, for your presence and your love
for your grounding and your grace
we give you thanks
For all we are and all we have are gifts from you
We humbly pause, and give you thanks.
November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving Day
we gather together, family and friends,
reflecting, memories rich with our collective past
our shared times together, washing over us
thinking of our blessings, at harvest, in thanksgiving
Our provision, day by day, our health, our family,
our friends, our nation, this world, troubled as it is
So much for which to be thankful, so many gifts
given by our creator, our savior, our savior,
our sustainer, our God
Like the first Thanksgiving, gathered together
around a table of your bounty, the gifts of the earth
grain and drink, meat and game, a harvest
Bowing our heads, our hearts as one,
joining in prayer, for the gifts we share
Remembering too, those who are not home
thankful for their service, for their sacrifice
those who stand in harm’s way on our behalf
thankful too for those on guard, for all who serve us
whether in foreign fields or in fire houses down the street
For you oh God, for your presence and your love
for your grounding and your grace
we give you thanks
For all we are and all we have are gifts from you
We humbly pause, and give you thanks.
November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving Day
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 37,780+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Little Kindnesses
Helping others
choosing, acting when we can
little kindnesses, things we can do
offering assistance, comfort
a little bit more, to ease their way
these are the things, the tests,
the marks in the book of life,
that on which we will be judged
not on changing the world,
nothing so overwhelming
little kindnesses,
that each of us can do
this is the measure
the manifestations of our faith
November 27, 2008 and November 19, 2008
Matthew 25:31-46
choosing, acting when we can
little kindnesses, things we can do
offering assistance, comfort
a little bit more, to ease their way
these are the things, the tests,
the marks in the book of life,
that on which we will be judged
not on changing the world,
nothing so overwhelming
little kindnesses,
that each of us can do
this is the measure
the manifestations of our faith
November 27, 2008 and November 19, 2008
Matthew 25:31-46
Wholesome Grain - revised
That we would be such,
gathered in, in the garner forever
our chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
word out changed to our in 3rd row
gathered in, in the garner forever
our chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
word out changed to our in 3rd row
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved.
Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 31,520+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Embers, Burning Together
Alone dying, the heat, the light failing
embers, burning together, gathering, sharing
building on the heat, the passion, the belief, the faith
one to another, in community, together
glowing, a beacon, a message of love
sending forth, reaching outward
burning together those who could not alone
November 23, 2008
embers, burning together, gathering, sharing
building on the heat, the passion, the belief, the faith
one to another, in community, together
glowing, a beacon, a message of love
sending forth, reaching outward
burning together those who could not alone
November 23, 2008
Grain Spoiled
Like the manna, enough provided, all he would need
his daily bread, relying on the Lord
Grain spoiled, in the silos, the garners
useless grain, at the end of his days
Gathered in and unshared, more than his daily needs
Spoiled, lost, when he was called home
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
his daily bread, relying on the Lord
Grain spoiled, in the silos, the garners
useless grain, at the end of his days
Gathered in and unshared, more than his daily needs
Spoiled, lost, when he was called home
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Storing Up When We Should Give
A foolish man, so the lectionary calls the rich man
his new silos, full, bursting; but empty
his life for the work, for storing up, preparing only
for the rest of this life, his time on this mortal coil
When the master calls, he is empty, unprepared
for his appointment with destiny
Storing up, when he should give
calling on man when God is there
when God would provide
all he, all we need
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,840+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
his new silos, full, bursting; but empty
his life for the work, for storing up, preparing only
for the rest of this life, his time on this mortal coil
When the master calls, he is empty, unprepared
for his appointment with destiny
Storing up, when he should give
calling on man when God is there
when God would provide
all he, all we need
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,840+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Wholesome Grain
That we would be such,
gathered in, in the garner forever
out chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
gathered in, in the garner forever
out chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Sheep, in His Pasture
Living now, sheep, in His pasture
within easy reach, the living,
tender care, of the shepherd
kept from harm, safe, watching
over us, in our daily struggle
Safe, secure, within His courts, His pasture
living as His sheep, knowing His calling,
His voice, from within us, His spirit
stirring within us, calling on the shepherd
safe in his pasture, evermore
November 23, 2008
Psalm 100 and Displines book for 11/23/08
within easy reach, the living,
tender care, of the shepherd
kept from harm, safe, watching
over us, in our daily struggle
Safe, secure, within His courts, His pasture
living as His sheep, knowing His calling,
His voice, from within us, His spirit
stirring within us, calling on the shepherd
safe in his pasture, evermore
November 23, 2008
Psalm 100 and Displines book for 11/23/08
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Make It Clear
Make it clear, plain
share the vision you are given
speak so they will hear
will understand
God is Love!
Christ is the way!
He rose; He lives!
Now, in heaven, living
God gave his son, his only son
Died for us, our debt to pay
Paid in full; we must just accept
this free gift of the creator.
November 19, 2008
Habakkuk 2:2
share the vision you are given
speak so they will hear
will understand
God is Love!
Christ is the way!
He rose; He lives!
Now, in heaven, living
God gave his son, his only son
Died for us, our debt to pay
Paid in full; we must just accept
this free gift of the creator.
November 19, 2008
Habakkuk 2:2
Monday, November 17, 2008
Fireproof
My wife and I went and saw Fireproof tonight, fireproofthemovie.
It came out 9/26/08. If you want to know where it is playing, go here fireproofthemovieblog
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is strong, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is struggling, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to be a true friend, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to witness to others, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who believes they know what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders that God's love feels like, start by going to Fireproof.
If you want to Fireproof your marriage, start here fireproofmymarriage or somewhere else; but start.
I love you Ruth!
It came out 9/26/08. If you want to know where it is playing, go here fireproofthemovieblog
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is strong, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is struggling, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to be a true friend, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to witness to others, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who believes they know what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders that God's love feels like, start by going to Fireproof.
If you want to Fireproof your marriage, start here fireproofmymarriage or somewhere else; but start.
I love you Ruth!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Out into the Street
Taking God’s message, his love
the fact, the truth of our one true God
out into the street, to the ends of the earth
to bring the good news to all who would listen
even to those who scoff, who doubt
letting them decide, letting them choose
being resolute, steady, with burning zeal
as of the Pentecost fire
bringing the creator, the savior
the judge for the coming end of time
leading all to God, where ever they may be
November 16, 2008
Call to Worship, and
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
along with Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
the fact, the truth of our one true God
out into the street, to the ends of the earth
to bring the good news to all who would listen
even to those who scoff, who doubt
letting them decide, letting them choose
being resolute, steady, with burning zeal
as of the Pentecost fire
bringing the creator, the savior
the judge for the coming end of time
leading all to God, where ever they may be
November 16, 2008
Call to Worship, and
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
along with Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008