As I sit in my pew, the same spot, down front
staring at my hands, knitted in prayer
waiting, for the usher to call, for my row’s turn
wondering, praying, as I walk to the rail
kneeling at your altar, I pray
even me Lord? You offer your table
even to me, your life for my own
your grace, your suffering, your death
that I may live, crying as I take the bread,
smiling as I take the cup, the words
his life poured out for you, for me
my sharing in the holy communion
that same meal, shared by the first twelve
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
Saturday, January 31, 2009
For Eternal Riches
His sacrifice, his life given
so that we would have eternal riches
life with our father, our God
walking as Adam walked
face to face with our creator
God’s offering, the sin sacrifice
the pure unblemished lamb
offered on the altar of the cross
forgiving all our wrongs
trading death for eternal riches
January 31, 2009
so that we would have eternal riches
life with our father, our God
walking as Adam walked
face to face with our creator
God’s offering, the sin sacrifice
the pure unblemished lamb
offered on the altar of the cross
forgiving all our wrongs
trading death for eternal riches
January 31, 2009
Abundance - haiku - 2
Not earthly riches
abundance of the spirit
walking with our God
January 31, 2009
John 10:10
abundance of the spirit
walking with our God
January 31, 2009
John 10:10
Abundance - haiku - 1
sublime abundance
beyond imagination
eternal life, peace
January 31, 2009
John 10:10
beyond imagination
eternal life, peace
January 31, 2009
John 10:10
Equally Needing This Grace
No one special, none meriting
a place at the table for all
all, all humankind,
from the first disciple,
the living saints among us
equally needing this grace
this gift, this offering
his body, this bread
his blood, this cup
an awful price
paid so we could be free
so that we could go home
to see our father’s face
once more, for the first time
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
a place at the table for all
all, all humankind,
from the first disciple,
the living saints among us
equally needing this grace
this gift, this offering
his body, this bread
his blood, this cup
an awful price
paid so we could be free
so that we could go home
to see our father’s face
once more, for the first time
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
On My Knees
Coming to your table
on my knees at the rail
taking the bread
into my cupped hands
drinking of the cup,
pausing, thanking you
sharing together
that which is beyond reason
the enormity of your act
your grace, your love
the healing of the world
by his body, his blood
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
on my knees at the rail
taking the bread
into my cupped hands
drinking of the cup,
pausing, thanking you
sharing together
that which is beyond reason
the enormity of your act
your grace, your love
the healing of the world
by his body, his blood
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
Come to His Table
We are called, together,
each one of us, individually
an invitation, open to all
to come to his table
and to eat, to drink,
to share in the holy mystery
in communion together,
individually with God
Sharing in his offering
accepting his sacrifice,
his gift, freely given
to take of the load,
to drink of the vine
Come to his table
He has prepared it for all.
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
each one of us, individually
an invitation, open to all
to come to his table
and to eat, to drink,
to share in the holy mystery
in communion together,
individually with God
Sharing in his offering
accepting his sacrifice,
his gift, freely given
to take of the load,
to drink of the vine
Come to his table
He has prepared it for all.
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
An Open Table
Hearing Christ’s own words,
his humble example
the lamb, the priest
the sacrifice, the master
offering himself
to all, to those who would believe
to those who would doubt,
even to those who would deny,
who would betray,
to those who would reject him
an open table, arms open wide
one cup, one bread
one Lord, one sacrifice
for all time
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
his humble example
the lamb, the priest
the sacrifice, the master
offering himself
to all, to those who would believe
to those who would doubt,
even to those who would deny,
who would betray,
to those who would reject him
an open table, arms open wide
one cup, one bread
one Lord, one sacrifice
for all time
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
All Welcome
Christ’s own example
sharing his body, his blood,
with all of them at the table
with those who would rage,
those who ran, denying him
even with him who would betray
the bread, the cup, his new covenant
open to all, all welcome at his table
this table, this holy mystery
offered by our Lord
mere remembrance
in our ritual, our faith
remembering your mighty acts
your ultimate sacrifice
your living grace
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
sharing his body, his blood,
with all of them at the table
with those who would rage,
those who ran, denying him
even with him who would betray
the bread, the cup, his new covenant
open to all, all welcome at his table
this table, this holy mystery
offered by our Lord
mere remembrance
in our ritual, our faith
remembering your mighty acts
your ultimate sacrifice
your living grace
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
Equally Sinful
Humbly, gratefully
approaching the table
the table prepared by the Lord
the bread, the cup, reminders
his sacrifice, in words,
symbols we can understand
coming, each one of us,
unworthy, by our acts
worthy by God’s gift
by his grace alone
coming forward to your altar rail
on my knees to accept your offering
all of us equally sinful
equally needing your love, your grace
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
approaching the table
the table prepared by the Lord
the bread, the cup, reminders
his sacrifice, in words,
symbols we can understand
coming, each one of us,
unworthy, by our acts
worthy by God’s gift
by his grace alone
coming forward to your altar rail
on my knees to accept your offering
all of us equally sinful
equally needing your love, your grace
January 31, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-23
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:21-30
John 13:27-30
and sermon, “Even Me Lord?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2009
In the Fire, in the Stillness
God is there, throughout life,
for all eternity
there in the fire, the clouds
going before the people
in the winds, the stormy blast, the thunder
in the times of struggle, of change
the Lord is there in the darkest night,
the light of a new dawn, a new day come
There in the singing, the praises of angels
the prayers of the faithful, in the heart of each believer
God, Christ there too in the silence, the stillness
in times we quiet ourselves
when we open our hearts to your call, whispers
There when we serve others,
in the light of Christ, when we are that light
God is there.
January 31, 2009
for all eternity
there in the fire, the clouds
going before the people
in the winds, the stormy blast, the thunder
in the times of struggle, of change
the Lord is there in the darkest night,
the light of a new dawn, a new day come
There in the singing, the praises of angels
the prayers of the faithful, in the heart of each believer
God, Christ there too in the silence, the stillness
in times we quiet ourselves
when we open our hearts to your call, whispers
There when we serve others,
in the light of Christ, when we are that light
God is there.
January 31, 2009
Friday, January 30, 2009
In the Heart – haiku – 1
God within each one
living, each believer’s heart
guide our steps we pray
January 30, 2009
living, each believer’s heart
guide our steps we pray
January 30, 2009
In the Wind – haiku – 1
his voice whispering
calling the faithful each day
from stillness, the wind
January 30, 2009
calling the faithful each day
from stillness, the wind
January 30, 2009
In the Light – haiku – 1
light of Christ alive
shine into my heart today
burn brightly within
January 30, 2009
shine into my heart today
burn brightly within
January 30, 2009
In the Darkness – haiku – 1
God shines in darkness
a beacon of hope for us
a way through all trials
January 30, 2009
a beacon of hope for us
a way through all trials
January 30, 2009
In the Tempest – haiku – 1
In shattering storms
the chaos of human life
God is by our side
January 30, 2009
the chaos of human life
God is by our side
January 30, 2009
In the Fire – haiku – 1
in the fire, flames
burning on Pentecost, tongues
speaking God’s word there
burning on Pentecost, tongues
speaking God’s word there
edited January 31, 2015
In the Fire – haiku – 1 – v3
(merging edits to version 2 and original)
edited June 12, 2014
In the Fire – haiku – 1 – v2
Acts 2:1-21
Pentecost
January 30, 2009
In the Fire – haiku – 1
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 35,590+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
In Thunder – haiku – 1
In roaring thunder
the crash of ocean waves
God speaks in volumes
January 30, 2009
the crash of ocean waves
God speaks in volumes
January 30, 2009
In Their Praise – haiku – 1
closer to God, sing
join in their praise, offered
joy of the angels
January 30, 2009
join in their praise, offered
joy of the angels
January 30, 2009
In Stillness – haiku – 1
in the quiet, night
in the stillness, listen, hear
the voice of God there
January 30, 2009
in the stillness, listen, hear
the voice of God there
January 30, 2009
Disciples – haiku – 2
The twelve who came first
apostles, messengers, saints
all who follow Christ
January 30, 2009
apostles, messengers, saints
all who follow Christ
January 30, 2009
Bread for the Hungry
bread for the hungry,
the cup for the thirsty
knowing those who would be a stranger
healing for those hurting, in need
light into the darkest dungeon
saving for those in the prison of sin
warmth within his loving arms
for those who are cold, lost
so was our savior,
so must we be
January 30, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
the cup for the thirsty
knowing those who would be a stranger
healing for those hurting, in need
light into the darkest dungeon
saving for those in the prison of sin
warmth within his loving arms
for those who are cold, lost
so was our savior,
so must we be
January 30, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
The Cup – haiku – 1
The one cup, the bread
one body, broken for all
his life for all of ours
January 30, 2009
one body, broken for all
his life for all of ours
January 30, 2009
Salvation
For the world, for each of us
he brought salvation, the offer of grace
sealing the rift
the chasm between God and man
the willfulness, the consequences
choosing the other way
Filling the gap with his body, his blood
bearing the weight alone
carrying that which we cannot
his sacrifice, holy and pure
worthy, sufficient
for all time
January 30, 2009
he brought salvation, the offer of grace
sealing the rift
the chasm between God and man
the willfulness, the consequences
choosing the other way
Filling the gap with his body, his blood
bearing the weight alone
carrying that which we cannot
his sacrifice, holy and pure
worthy, sufficient
for all time
January 30, 2009
His Birth – haiku – 1
Forever changing
the world saved by his birth
breach sealed once more
January 30, 2009
the world saved by his birth
breach sealed once more
January 30, 2009
One Life – haiku – 1
The ransom, one life
An enormous price to pay
healing the whole world
January 30, 2009
An enormous price to pay
healing the whole world
January 30, 2009
A Prayer of Thanks, by the National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT), received 1/29/09
God of all time and this time, God of all nations and our nation, God of all people, each blessed and created in your divine image, we join our hearts, “full of the hope that the present has brought us,” and lift our voices in thanksgiving to you.
We give praise to you, O God, for the leadership of the President of the United States and the swiftness with which he signed executive orders to restore the rule of law and end U.S.-sponsored torture. We are grateful for the witness of the religious community and those of other communities in the call for an end to U.S.-sponsored torture.
May it be your will, O God, that the prayers, passion, and hard work of an amazing diversity of faith communities, across this country, joined in common purpose, continue to bring about the repair of the world.
We pray for the strength to continue our work -- to make sure that U.S.-sponsored torture never happens again.
Help us to continue to be vigilant and faithful and to commit ourselves anew to be a people who “do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with you.” O God, guide us always with your wisdom, and in all ways and all times, may we seek peace and pursue it. And let us say, Amen.
------------------------------
www.tortoreisamoralissue.org
------------------------------
They went on to say...
President Obama Halts U.S.-Sponsored Torture!
On January 22nd, 2009, President Obama signed an Executive Order that ends the CIA abuse of detainees, closes U.S. secret prisons, ends rendition for torture, and provides the International Committee of the Red Cross with access to U.S.-held detainees.
Now We Must Ensure It NEVER Happens Again
President Obama has ended U.S.-sponsored torture – but he cannot by himself prevent it from occurring again in the future. To ensure that our country never again tortures anyone, Congress must:
• Understand Our Mistakes: Congress should fund and provide subpoena power to an independent, nonpartisan commission that is tasked solely with investigating our torture policies and practices since Sept. 11, 2001.
• Give the “Golden Rule” the Force of Law: Congress should require the President to affirm that any interrogation technique that is authorized for use upon a detainee would also be legal if used upon a captured American.
• ICRC Access: Congress should write the Red Cross provision of President Obama’s Executive Order into law.
• Rendition for Torture and Secret Prisons: both need to
be prohibited.
What You Can Do
1.) Go to www.tortureisamoralissue.org.
2.) Sign NRCAT’s Statement of Conscience.
3.) Send an email to President Obama, thanking him for his actions (a sample email can be found on our website).
4.) Call your Congressman and your Senators and ask them to support the items listed above.
www.tortureisamoralissue.org
We give praise to you, O God, for the leadership of the President of the United States and the swiftness with which he signed executive orders to restore the rule of law and end U.S.-sponsored torture. We are grateful for the witness of the religious community and those of other communities in the call for an end to U.S.-sponsored torture.
May it be your will, O God, that the prayers, passion, and hard work of an amazing diversity of faith communities, across this country, joined in common purpose, continue to bring about the repair of the world.
We pray for the strength to continue our work -- to make sure that U.S.-sponsored torture never happens again.
Help us to continue to be vigilant and faithful and to commit ourselves anew to be a people who “do justice, love kindness and walk humbly with you.” O God, guide us always with your wisdom, and in all ways and all times, may we seek peace and pursue it. And let us say, Amen.
------------------------------
www.tortoreisamoralissue.org
------------------------------
They went on to say...
President Obama Halts U.S.-Sponsored Torture!
On January 22nd, 2009, President Obama signed an Executive Order that ends the CIA abuse of detainees, closes U.S. secret prisons, ends rendition for torture, and provides the International Committee of the Red Cross with access to U.S.-held detainees.
Now We Must Ensure It NEVER Happens Again
President Obama has ended U.S.-sponsored torture – but he cannot by himself prevent it from occurring again in the future. To ensure that our country never again tortures anyone, Congress must:
• Understand Our Mistakes: Congress should fund and provide subpoena power to an independent, nonpartisan commission that is tasked solely with investigating our torture policies and practices since Sept. 11, 2001.
• Give the “Golden Rule” the Force of Law: Congress should require the President to affirm that any interrogation technique that is authorized for use upon a detainee would also be legal if used upon a captured American.
• ICRC Access: Congress should write the Red Cross provision of President Obama’s Executive Order into law.
• Rendition for Torture and Secret Prisons: both need to
be prohibited.
What You Can Do
1.) Go to www.tortureisamoralissue.org.
2.) Sign NRCAT’s Statement of Conscience.
3.) Send an email to President Obama, thanking him for his actions (a sample email can be found on our website).
4.) Call your Congressman and your Senators and ask them to support the items listed above.
www.tortureisamoralissue.org
Vine – haiku – 1
branches on the vine
so we should live, connected
drawing strength from God
January 30, 2009
so we should live, connected
drawing strength from God
January 30, 2009
Sanctuary - haiku - 2
find sanctuary
safe place from the troubled world
in your loving arms
January 30, 2009
safe place from the troubled world
in your loving arms
January 30, 2009
Shepherd - haiku - 2
His law, His good life,
his presence within me now
guide me my shepherd
January 30, 2009
his presence within me now
guide me my shepherd
January 30, 2009
Manger - haiku - 3
lay down your head, Lord
in your humble manger bed
thank you for coming
January 30, 2009
in your humble manger bed
thank you for coming
January 30, 2009
Potter - haiku - 1
Clay on his table
inert until his breath, life
mold me to your will
January 30, 2009
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 21,130+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
inert until his breath, life
mold me to your will
January 30, 2009
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 21,130+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Father - haiku - 2
heavens declare praise
benevolent father, king
our creator, God
January 30, 2009
benevolent father, king
our creator, God
January 30, 2009
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 27,390+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Holy Spirit - haiku - 2
moving within us
spirit of our savior
speaking within us
January 30, 2009
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 21,130+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
spirit of our savior
speaking within us
January 30, 2009
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 21,130+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Thursday, January 29, 2009
Light of Christ
We are to be, to bring
the light of Christ,
of our God, our savior
A beacon shining
into the dungeons, into the darkness
bringing his mercy, his wisdom,
his justice, godly virtues
living today, carrying on
his ministry, his teachings
crying out in the wilderness
making ready, making his way straight
bringing others to his altar, to his throne
a lamp high on the lampstand
light to the world
January 29, 2009
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2009/01/light-of-christ.html
the light of Christ,
of our God, our savior
A beacon shining
into the dungeons, into the darkness
bringing his mercy, his wisdom,
his justice, godly virtues
living today, carrying on
his ministry, his teachings
crying out in the wilderness
making ready, making his way straight
bringing others to his altar, to his throne
a lamp high on the lampstand
light to the world
January 29, 2009
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2009/01/light-of-christ.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.
Son
In the beginning, creation
the Godhead together,
triune and one, together
after the fall, covenants
to save the people, the law;
But beyond human ability.
A Messiah, a savior.
The son, God incarnate
moving, walking among us
living light, flowing water,
bread of life, agent of grace
the pure, the divine, the lamb
sacrificing for all, in utter humility
Submitting to the jeers, to
the whip, the thorns,
the cross, the grave.
All for you, for me.
Our brother, Easter morn’
rising, once more
to his holy throne.
Until he comes once more.
January 29, 2009
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 21,130+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the Godhead together,
triune and one, together
after the fall, covenants
to save the people, the law;
But beyond human ability.
A Messiah, a savior.
The son, God incarnate
moving, walking among us
living light, flowing water,
bread of life, agent of grace
the pure, the divine, the lamb
sacrificing for all, in utter humility
Submitting to the jeers, to
the whip, the thorns,
the cross, the grave.
All for you, for me.
Our brother, Easter morn’
rising, once more
to his holy throne.
Until he comes once more.
January 29, 2009
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 21,130+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Father
The father, the creator
your ways, your grace
beyond my comprehension
the precision, the order
oh to see your creation
through your eyes,
even for a moment, to feel your joy,
your pain, your plan
humbly to see your world
our place in your garden
to serve you, to fear you
following your commands
listening to your voice,
wherever you speak,
in the stillness, in the thunder,
the crash of the waves,
the rising of the sun
Father, our heavenly father
we cleave to you
walk with us, we pray
living within us
to the end of time
and in the eternity to come
January 29, 2009
your ways, your grace
beyond my comprehension
the precision, the order
oh to see your creation
through your eyes,
even for a moment, to feel your joy,
your pain, your plan
humbly to see your world
our place in your garden
to serve you, to fear you
following your commands
listening to your voice,
wherever you speak,
in the stillness, in the thunder,
the crash of the waves,
the rising of the sun
Father, our heavenly father
we cleave to you
walk with us, we pray
living within us
to the end of time
and in the eternity to come
January 29, 2009
Lord
A name, with bounds
understandable for human ears
through the ages
a way to grasp the infinite
that which we cannot know
Lord, our Master, that keeper of all
the owner of all that was,
all that is in this time,
all that will be forevermore
conjured from nothingness
set into an ordered, wondrous whole
such is our Lord
January 29, 2009
understandable for human ears
through the ages
a way to grasp the infinite
that which we cannot know
Lord, our Master, that keeper of all
the owner of all that was,
all that is in this time,
all that will be forevermore
conjured from nothingness
set into an ordered, wondrous whole
such is our Lord
January 29, 2009
Manger
At the beginning of his life
a humble couple, young, unsure
travelers, following the law
going to his town, their ancient home
unexpected vessels, agents of God
coming unheralded, unwelcome, no place for them
a humble stable would be theirs
this is where He would appear
the prophesized Messiah, born, witnessed
by the animals, by his parents
wrapped and placed
a humble manger
would welcome the king
January 29, 2009
a humble couple, young, unsure
travelers, following the law
going to his town, their ancient home
unexpected vessels, agents of God
coming unheralded, unwelcome, no place for them
a humble stable would be theirs
this is where He would appear
the prophesized Messiah, born, witnessed
by the animals, by his parents
wrapped and placed
a humble manger
would welcome the king
January 29, 2009
Sanctuary
In sanctuary we gather
a people set apart, coming together
into the house of God,
within the community of faith
finding solace, finding peace
finding God in the quiet,
in the safety of sanctuary
January 29, 2009
a people set apart, coming together
into the house of God,
within the community of faith
finding solace, finding peace
finding God in the quiet,
in the safety of sanctuary
January 29, 2009
Waiting – haiku – 1
Waiting for the judge
sitting in the courtroom, buzz
the sound of lights, stress
January 29, 2009
sitting in the courtroom, buzz
the sound of lights, stress
January 29, 2009
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 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
In Court – haiku – 1
Before the judge comes
time slowing to a mere crawl
waiting for his call
January 29, 2009
time slowing to a mere crawl
waiting for his call
January 29, 2009
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 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Savior – haiku – 2
Dying, Rising, Lord
incarnate, Messiah, God
our brother, by Grace
January 29, 2009
incarnate, Messiah, God
our brother, by Grace
January 29, 2009
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 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Holy Spirit – haiku – 1
Mysterious, God
the voice within us, our guide
the power in us
January 29, 2009
the voice within us, our guide
the power in us
January 29, 2009
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 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Brightly – haiku – 1
The light of Christ, God
Bear witness, all believers
shine into darkness
January 29, 2009
Bear witness, all believers
shine into darkness
January 29, 2009
Sheep – haiku – 6
The sheep of his fields
following the master’s call
going where he leads
January 29, 2009
following the master’s call
going where he leads
January 29, 2009
Sanctuary – haiku – 1
The house of our Lord
refuge from the outside world
His light shining bright
January 29, 2009
refuge from the outside world
His light shining bright
January 29, 2009
Father – haiku – 1
Creator, Lord, God
we are all his children, clay
works of the potter
January 29, 2009
we are all his children, clay
works of the potter
January 29, 2009
Shepherds – haiku – 4
Shepherds on the hills
watching over their flocks, night
angels hail his birth
January 29, 2009
watching over their flocks, night
angels hail his birth
January 29, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Commissioned as He was
We are commissioned as he was
sent by God, by the empowering of the spirit
to continue his service, his servanthood,
taking up our cross, joining Christ’s yoke
walking with our creator, with our savior
tilling the fields, planting the seeds,
watering, nurturing, pruning,
the work in the garden never ending
working, toiling in the fields, in the vineyard
commissioned as he was to bring the good news
to help others become disciples as we are
to bring Christ to the ends of the earth
January 28, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
sent by God, by the empowering of the spirit
to continue his service, his servanthood,
taking up our cross, joining Christ’s yoke
walking with our creator, with our savior
tilling the fields, planting the seeds,
watering, nurturing, pruning,
the work in the garden never ending
working, toiling in the fields, in the vineyard
commissioned as he was to bring the good news
to help others become disciples as we are
to bring Christ to the ends of the earth
January 28, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
Sent by God
He who was sent by God,
sends us, out into the world,
to continue his work, to be the messenger
the light cast, shining, a beacon,
into the darkness, beyond the sanctuary
out into the world, to where there is hurt,
to where there is loss, to where there is despair
There is hope, there is salvation, in him,
in relationship with God, restored
by his sacrifice, we have grace,
we are made whole, brought to the father
by our accepting this commission
we can know the savior and can look forward
to that day when we will see God face to face
January 28, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
sends us, out into the world,
to continue his work, to be the messenger
the light cast, shining, a beacon,
into the darkness, beyond the sanctuary
out into the world, to where there is hurt,
to where there is loss, to where there is despair
There is hope, there is salvation, in him,
in relationship with God, restored
by his sacrifice, we have grace,
we are made whole, brought to the father
by our accepting this commission
we can know the savior and can look forward
to that day when we will see God face to face
January 28, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
Sent by Christ
As he was commissioned, as he was sent by God
so we are sent by our savior, the Messiah, by Christ
as he was sent to bring hope, to bring redemption
so are we sent, filled with the spirit,
to bring the good news to those in need
to offer hope to those who have lost their way
sharing the message of Christ, the love of God
as he was sent by the father,
we are sent by Christ
out into the world
to the ends of the earth
and to the end of the age
January 28, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
so we are sent by our savior, the Messiah, by Christ
as he was sent to bring hope, to bring redemption
so are we sent, filled with the spirit,
to bring the good news to those in need
to offer hope to those who have lost their way
sharing the message of Christ, the love of God
as he was sent by the father,
we are sent by Christ
out into the world
to the ends of the earth
and to the end of the age
January 28, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
His Feet Washed
Christ knelt down,
a servant to them all
washing the feet of the twelve
all of them, knowing what he knew
what he knew alone, Emmanuel
bowing down before then
the Betrayer, those who would run
he who would deny him
foretelling all of this
Breaking bread, sharing the loaf,
pouring the wine, sharing the cup,
symbols of his sacrifice,
his life about to be given for them
for us, for all mankind,
forgiving all who sin,
all who would come to him
all who share in the one meal
his body, his blood,
poured out for you,
for me, for many
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
a servant to them all
washing the feet of the twelve
all of them, knowing what he knew
what he knew alone, Emmanuel
bowing down before then
the Betrayer, those who would run
he who would deny him
foretelling all of this
Breaking bread, sharing the loaf,
pouring the wine, sharing the cup,
symbols of his sacrifice,
his life about to be given for them
for us, for all mankind,
forgiving all who sin,
all who would come to him
all who share in the one meal
his body, his blood,
poured out for you,
for me, for many
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
Judas Ate
Even as they knew, they each knew
what was to come,
what had already been set into motion
the betrayal already begun, the contract, the price
about to be paid, the exchange made
for a purse of coins promised
his sacrifice, his death
The prophesies about to be fulfilled
as Christ alone knew
Even as they knew, they each knew
Judas ate, sitting at the one table
the sharing of the teacher’s words
his feet washed by the lamb,
sharing in the new rite
Christ offering himself,
his sacrifice, his blood, his body for us all;
Judas ate took from the loaf, from the cup
sharing in the first communion
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
what was to come,
what had already been set into motion
the betrayal already begun, the contract, the price
about to be paid, the exchange made
for a purse of coins promised
his sacrifice, his death
The prophesies about to be fulfilled
as Christ alone knew
Even as they knew, they each knew
Judas ate, sitting at the one table
the sharing of the teacher’s words
his feet washed by the lamb,
sharing in the new rite
Christ offering himself,
his sacrifice, his blood, his body for us all;
Judas ate took from the loaf, from the cup
sharing in the first communion
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
All at the Table
they were all at the table
sharing the Passover dinner
all set apart, sitting with the Master
sharing the ancient words
the remembrance of the deliverance
the saving by the creator
the people being passed over
by the blood of the lambs
all sitting at the table
the disciples, the betrayer too
all sharing the grace of Christ
in the foot washing,
his servanthood, his lessons
and in the meal,
the recasting of the ancient words
a new covenant with a new people
his body, his blood,
to be rent, to be poured out
sharing, all of them at the table
in the supper we share
the meal sanctified at your altar
the table you have prepared
all of us at the table
just as we are
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
sharing the Passover dinner
all set apart, sitting with the Master
sharing the ancient words
the remembrance of the deliverance
the saving by the creator
the people being passed over
by the blood of the lambs
all sitting at the table
the disciples, the betrayer too
all sharing the grace of Christ
in the foot washing,
his servanthood, his lessons
and in the meal,
the recasting of the ancient words
a new covenant with a new people
his body, his blood,
to be rent, to be poured out
sharing, all of them at the table
in the supper we share
the meal sanctified at your altar
the table you have prepared
all of us at the table
just as we are
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
Judas too
There was Peter, John
sitting at the table, with Christ
sitting there on the night
the Passover meal to share
Judas too, sharing in the meal,
the new covenant made by Christ
his body, his blood,
even before, Judas too
at the table, with them
his feet washed by Christ
a servant at his feet,
in that moment,
in the upper room
sharing the meal,
the body, the blood
the meal we all share
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
sitting at the table, with Christ
sitting there on the night
the Passover meal to share
Judas too, sharing in the meal,
the new covenant made by Christ
his body, his blood,
even before, Judas too
at the table, with them
his feet washed by Christ
a servant at his feet,
in that moment,
in the upper room
sharing the meal,
the body, the blood
the meal we all share
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
Even for Him
Read carefully the words of our savior
watch his actions, that which he does
the opening of the table, to all of them
even for him, he who would betray
even for him there was a seat at the table
even for him, his feet were washed
even for him the body, the blood
given, the new covenant open for him,
open for us all
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
watch his actions, that which he does
the opening of the table, to all of them
even for him, he who would betray
even for him there was a seat at the table
even for him, his feet were washed
even for him the body, the blood
given, the new covenant open for him,
open for us all
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
Offered to Him
His blood, his body
offered to him
a seat at the table
an offering of his life
drinking from the cup,
sharing the one loaf
offered to him,
knowing already who he was
knowing of his betrayal
the pain that was to come
the suffering brought
by the choices he would make
offered to him,
the same cup, the same loaf
that which we share
offered to him
a sinner, just like me
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
offered to him
a seat at the table
an offering of his life
drinking from the cup,
sharing the one loaf
offered to him,
knowing already who he was
knowing of his betrayal
the pain that was to come
the suffering brought
by the choices he would make
offered to him,
the same cup, the same loaf
that which we share
offered to him
a sinner, just like me
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
If for Him
The blood, the wine,
the body, the bread
the loaf, the cup
offered for him
If for him, for all,
no matter the station,
no matter the sin,
all are welcome at the table
all are worthy of the feast
all eating of the body, of the blood
a sharing in the holy meal
each one gaining communion
a sharing with our Lord
in the act of coming together
one bread, one cup, for all
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
the body, the bread
the loaf, the cup
offered for him
If for him, for all,
no matter the station,
no matter the sin,
all are welcome at the table
all are worthy of the feast
all eating of the body, of the blood
a sharing in the holy meal
each one gaining communion
a sharing with our Lord
in the act of coming together
one bread, one cup, for all
January 28, 2009
Matthew 26:14-30
Matthew 26:26-28
Mark 14:12-26
Mark 14:24-26
Luke 22:1-30
Luke 22:14-20
John 6:53-59
John 13:1-30
John 13:27-30
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
The Touch of the Spirit
Have you felt the touch of the Spirit?
The murmur of the breath of God?
the change within you as Christ grows
as you are blessed, sent, as he was touched
as he was sent by the father
this journey of life, his ministry of hope,
his walking on this earth,
his anointing by the Spirit,
rising from the waters,
baptismal, new birth, that new creation
born of God, not of man,
sent by Christ, as we are,
as were the first disciples
the spirit breathing life, into us, our hearts
transformed by that indwelling voice of God
moving through us, guiding us
being sent into the world
as the father sent him
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
The murmur of the breath of God?
the change within you as Christ grows
as you are blessed, sent, as he was touched
as he was sent by the father
this journey of life, his ministry of hope,
his walking on this earth,
his anointing by the Spirit,
rising from the waters,
baptismal, new birth, that new creation
born of God, not of man,
sent by Christ, as we are,
as were the first disciples
the spirit breathing life, into us, our hearts
transformed by that indwelling voice of God
moving through us, guiding us
being sent into the world
as the father sent him
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
Like Pearls of Light
Like pearls of light,
like drops of rain, falling, as a shower
adding living water, a rushing stream
a waterfall, like water etching rock
so should the believers be, washing over the earth
bringing the spirit, the love, the message of Christ
his ministry continuing in all we do in our lives
living out the teachings of the prophets,
the example of our savior, the judgment prophesized
all we are a reflection, living light, our sinew infused
imbued with that spirit’s power, the anointed ones
as we are, as he was commissioned by the father,
so we are sent forth, to be Christ, to be his witnesses
crying out into the wilderness, making his path straight
preparing the way, for the coming of the Lord
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
like drops of rain, falling, as a shower
adding living water, a rushing stream
a waterfall, like water etching rock
so should the believers be, washing over the earth
bringing the spirit, the love, the message of Christ
his ministry continuing in all we do in our lives
living out the teachings of the prophets,
the example of our savior, the judgment prophesized
all we are a reflection, living light, our sinew infused
imbued with that spirit’s power, the anointed ones
as we are, as he was commissioned by the father,
so we are sent forth, to be Christ, to be his witnesses
crying out into the wilderness, making his path straight
preparing the way, for the coming of the Lord
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
In the Same Way
We are sent, out into the world,
the same ministry, the same mission
bringing a hope, a belief, a joy
unlike any other, incomprehensible
in strictly human terms
in the same way we are blessed,
sent forth, out into the world
as Christ himself was,
with a blessing from the father,
a laying on of hands;
but hands we cannot see
bodily imbued, touched by the holy spirit
that which coursed over the chaotic waters too
at the moment of creation
the same breath of God
giving life, filling us now
in the same ministry as the son
the same message of love
in the same was, filled by the spirit
resting on us, entering into us
in the same way commissioned
to bring the good news of the father’s love
into a broken and hurting world
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
the same ministry, the same mission
bringing a hope, a belief, a joy
unlike any other, incomprehensible
in strictly human terms
in the same way we are blessed,
sent forth, out into the world
as Christ himself was,
with a blessing from the father,
a laying on of hands;
but hands we cannot see
bodily imbued, touched by the holy spirit
that which coursed over the chaotic waters too
at the moment of creation
the same breath of God
giving life, filling us now
in the same ministry as the son
the same message of love
in the same was, filled by the spirit
resting on us, entering into us
in the same way commissioned
to bring the good news of the father’s love
into a broken and hurting world
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
Listen to What He is Saying
In these words, these parting words,
these empowering words of the savior
the mantle of the father,
that which he gave to the son
at the moment of his baptism,
rising from the Jordan,
the dove falling upon him,
the carpenter’s son
commissioned in the river,
the ancient scrolls of the prophets
fulfilled in that instance
But the words of Christ,
in sending forth his children
giving them, giving us, the power he received
the strength to continue his ministry
to boldly bring his message, his love
the saving grace, by grace alone
the gift of the loving father
in the breath of the spirit
given to us in that moment
when he sent us to the ends of the earth
when he commissioned us
to be his messengers
his light, sent into the world
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
these empowering words of the savior
the mantle of the father,
that which he gave to the son
at the moment of his baptism,
rising from the Jordan,
the dove falling upon him,
the carpenter’s son
commissioned in the river,
the ancient scrolls of the prophets
fulfilled in that instance
But the words of Christ,
in sending forth his children
giving them, giving us, the power he received
the strength to continue his ministry
to boldly bring his message, his love
the saving grace, by grace alone
the gift of the loving father
in the breath of the spirit
given to us in that moment
when he sent us to the ends of the earth
when he commissioned us
to be his messengers
his light, sent into the world
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
As the Father
As the father sent the son
the spirit descending on him as a dove
so we are sent by our Master, our brother, our savior
the risen Christ, the Messiah, the lamb,
breathing the spirit, his power, into our lungs,
into our cells, into our very being
empowering us, preparing us, equipped
to take up the yoke with our brother
to work in the field, in the vineyard,
to bring fruits for the harvest,
the reaper who will come again
as the father sent him, so we are sent
to offer Christ to the world
to bear his witness, to be his light
sending this prayer into the world
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
the spirit descending on him as a dove
so we are sent by our Master, our brother, our savior
the risen Christ, the Messiah, the lamb,
breathing the spirit, his power, into our lungs,
into our cells, into our very being
empowering us, preparing us, equipped
to take up the yoke with our brother
to work in the field, in the vineyard,
to bring fruits for the harvest,
the reaper who will come again
as the father sent him, so we are sent
to offer Christ to the world
to bear his witness, to be his light
sending this prayer into the world
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
Prayers Sent
Sent as he was sent by the father,
prayers sent to the world
holy prayers of the king,
to reach the hearts of men
sent lovingly, purposely,
with credentials, portfolio
empowered by the spirit
filled with his breath
armed with the holy
the words of scripture
as prayers sent into the world
we serve our Lord
to bring others to Christ
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
prayers sent to the world
holy prayers of the king,
to reach the hearts of men
sent lovingly, purposely,
with credentials, portfolio
empowered by the spirit
filled with his breath
armed with the holy
the words of scripture
as prayers sent into the world
we serve our Lord
to bring others to Christ
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
Sent
We are all, each of us, sent, a seed sown,
a priesthood commissioned, empowered
sent out into the world, a witness, a sheep
emboldened by the spirit
to bear the light of Christ
to the ends of the earth
to make disciples, other sheep,
into the sheephold,
other grain into the garner,
other fruits, abiding in the vine
sharing the father’s love,
the story of the son’s sacrifice
the amazing grace of God
abundant grace
proclaiming the wonder
the saving of the nations
sent to spread the good news
of his coming and his return
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
a priesthood commissioned, empowered
sent out into the world, a witness, a sheep
emboldened by the spirit
to bear the light of Christ
to the ends of the earth
to make disciples, other sheep,
into the sheephold,
other grain into the garner,
other fruits, abiding in the vine
sharing the father’s love,
the story of the son’s sacrifice
the amazing grace of God
abundant grace
proclaiming the wonder
the saving of the nations
sent to spread the good news
of his coming and his return
January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
Sown
So I Send You, sown
seeds cast, not capriciously,
lovingly, spread into the world
sent into the darkness, bits of his light
on the wind of the Holy Spirit
sent by our brother, our risen savior
empowered, his messengers, his ambassadors
his emissaries into the world
as the father sent him, so he sends us
to find fertile soil, to root, to grow
to shine in the darkness
an ever widening arc, a beacon
illuminating, bearing fruit
preparing a harvest for the reaper
sheep for the shepherd
at the end of the age
January 27, 2009
John 20:21
seeds cast, not capriciously,
lovingly, spread into the world
sent into the darkness, bits of his light
on the wind of the Holy Spirit
sent by our brother, our risen savior
empowered, his messengers, his ambassadors
his emissaries into the world
as the father sent him, so he sends us
to find fertile soil, to root, to grow
to shine in the darkness
an ever widening arc, a beacon
illuminating, bearing fruit
preparing a harvest for the reaper
sheep for the shepherd
at the end of the age
January 27, 2009
John 20:21
Living His Ministry
For he has set down,
written and treasured
the instructions on how we are to live
the words of the prophet, the ancient scrolls
claimed by the teacher as his own
His life a living example
putting the words, the prophecy
into motion, caring for them,
those of which the words spoke
the least, the last, the lost
humbly serving, sharing himself
giving as there was need
guiding us by the days of his life
sacrificing all so we may be sheep
living out his ministry all of our days
January 27, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
written and treasured
the instructions on how we are to live
the words of the prophet, the ancient scrolls
claimed by the teacher as his own
His life a living example
putting the words, the prophecy
into motion, caring for them,
those of which the words spoke
the least, the last, the lost
humbly serving, sharing himself
giving as there was need
guiding us by the days of his life
sacrificing all so we may be sheep
living out his ministry all of our days
January 27, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
Monday, January 26, 2009
Email - author unknown - Cell Phone vs. The Bible, received 1/26/09
WHERE DO WE PUT OUR PRIORITY ?
Cell Phone vs. The Bible
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat
our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several time a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we travelled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing:
Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being
disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities?' And no dropped calls!
Trust in the Lord and ASAP (Always Say A Prayer)
Have a blessed and wonderful day!
Cell Phone vs. The Bible
Ever wonder what would happen if we treated our Bible like we treat
our cell phone?
What if we carried it around in our purses or pockets?
What if we flipped through it several time a day?
What if we turned back to go get it if we forgot it?
What if we used it to receive messages from the text?
What if we treated it like we couldn't live without it?
What if we gave it to kids as gifts?
What if we used it when we travelled?
What if we used it in case of emergency?
This is something to make you go....hmm...where is my Bible?
Oh, and one more thing:
Unlike our cell phone, we don't have to worry about our Bible being
disconnected because Jesus already paid the bill.
Makes you stop and think 'where are my priorities?' And no dropped calls!
Trust in the Lord and ASAP (Always Say A Prayer)
Have a blessed and wonderful day!
Sunday, January 25, 2009
For the Hungry
Those who are hungry,
oh, come to our doors,
for you will be fed
and fed, and fed
food offered for the body, for the soul
a meal each week, offered, free, for all
a place to be filled,
to break bread together
to eat without neighbors
one family, one table,
open to all
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
oh, come to our doors,
for you will be fed
and fed, and fed
food offered for the body, for the soul
a meal each week, offered, free, for all
a place to be filled,
to break bread together
to eat without neighbors
one family, one table,
open to all
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
For those in Prison
She spoke with power
a personal witness
challenging us
serving those in prison
coming to them, in prison
sharing the message of the Christ
his message of love, of forgiveness
of saving for all,
by God’s grace alone
Offering to them her presence
the hope in our faith
for his ministry was for the sinners
for the captives, to set them free
In her words a challenge,
for us to more fully
live out his ministry
to shine light into the dungeons
to set the prisoners free
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
a personal witness
challenging us
serving those in prison
coming to them, in prison
sharing the message of the Christ
his message of love, of forgiveness
of saving for all,
by God’s grace alone
Offering to them her presence
the hope in our faith
for his ministry was for the sinners
for the captives, to set them free
In her words a challenge,
for us to more fully
live out his ministry
to shine light into the dungeons
to set the prisoners free
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
For the Sick
For the sick, in body, in spirit,
joys, celebrations, concerns
cries in the sanctuary,
in prayers spoken,
in the silent prayers we carry
a long list, both joys, aches,
sighs without words.
But more still, visits,
calls, cards, connections
remembering those missing
gone from within our midst
lives touched, caring, healing
with the presence of our members
reaching out to those who are sick
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
joys, celebrations, concerns
cries in the sanctuary,
in prayers spoken,
in the silent prayers we carry
a long list, both joys, aches,
sighs without words.
But more still, visits,
calls, cards, connections
remembering those missing
gone from within our midst
lives touched, caring, healing
with the presence of our members
reaching out to those who are sick
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
For the Homeless, the Unwanted
A place for them,
the unwanted, a place
safe, warm, to gather
welcome, safe, from judgment
a key to enter in
support for those suffering
a meal, a hug,
understanding,
sanctuary.
within these walls,
a regular place to come
and to find acceptance.
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
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 21,020+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the unwanted, a place
safe, warm, to gather
welcome, safe, from judgment
a key to enter in
support for those suffering
a meal, a hug,
understanding,
sanctuary.
within these walls,
a regular place to come
and to find acceptance.
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist ChurchSuncook, 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 21,020+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
For the Thirsty
Drink, for the thirsty
the presence of the Spirit
Feeling a warmth
living water, for them
a drink for the thirsty
never to be thirsty again
But drink for the body
care for the needs
here on earth
Here may the thirsty
find drink, always
here may they be welcome
our doors open to them
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
the presence of the Spirit
Feeling a warmth
living water, for them
a drink for the thirsty
never to be thirsty again
But drink for the body
care for the needs
here on earth
Here may the thirsty
find drink, always
here may they be welcome
our doors open to them
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
From Isaiah to Eternal Life
His life, his ministry, his example
by following, eternity
He lifted the ancient text
taking the prophecy, as his call,
claiming the words of Isaiah
I am, the words fulfilled
Claiming the service, the ministry
the words of the prophet
in claiming him, as our own,
our risen lord, our savior
taking up the scripture, the call
taking on the work of our master
bringing relief, hope,
bringing our father’s love
out into a broken world
where there is still hunger, thirst,
where the poor shiver still in the cold
where the sick, the homeless, the prisoners
still yearn to be free, to be loved
going as he was sent, going in his name
walking from Isaiah,
journeying to eternal life
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
by following, eternity
He lifted the ancient text
taking the prophecy, as his call,
claiming the words of Isaiah
I am, the words fulfilled
Claiming the service, the ministry
the words of the prophet
in claiming him, as our own,
our risen lord, our savior
taking up the scripture, the call
taking on the work of our master
bringing relief, hope,
bringing our father’s love
out into a broken world
where there is still hunger, thirst,
where the poor shiver still in the cold
where the sick, the homeless, the prisoners
still yearn to be free, to be loved
going as he was sent, going in his name
walking from Isaiah,
journeying to eternal life
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
A Coat a Sweater too
In words they could fathom
a word, volunteer, held up
explained by the work,
the life of this church
what do we offer to those
those who are cold?
A coat, one young voice shouted,
nods, affirmations from the congregation
But more still
a sweater too
his voice rose up
yes, a sweater too,
and there are blankets
more still
for those who are without
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
the children’s sermon
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
a word, volunteer, held up
explained by the work,
the life of this church
what do we offer to those
those who are cold?
A coat, one young voice shouted,
nods, affirmations from the congregation
But more still
a sweater too
his voice rose up
yes, a sweater too,
and there are blankets
more still
for those who are without
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
the children’s sermon
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Reading Isaiah
Like Christ, we are to take up the scroll
to take up the ancient words
to take up his ministry
to be the sheep, yes, oh yes;
but to be the Christ, to serve them
loving others, our neighbors
as he commanded
and in that ministry
sharing compassion, hope
offering love, his love
even to the Christ, through them
full circle, being Christ, finding Christ
in the face of each other
serving Christ, through our service
to them, those for whom he came
at the very beginning of his ministry
fulfilling the prophecy
bringing the kingdom near
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
to take up the ancient words
to take up his ministry
to be the sheep, yes, oh yes;
but to be the Christ, to serve them
loving others, our neighbors
as he commanded
and in that ministry
sharing compassion, hope
offering love, his love
even to the Christ, through them
full circle, being Christ, finding Christ
in the face of each other
serving Christ, through our service
to them, those for whom he came
at the very beginning of his ministry
fulfilling the prophecy
bringing the kingdom near
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Sheep – haiku – 5
Stand at Christ’s right hand
All those who answered his call
enter your reward
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
All those who answered his call
enter your reward
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Sheep – haiku – 4
Living out his life
Following our brother’s call
serving all in need
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Following our brother’s call
serving all in need
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Sheep – haiku – 2
Learn from his example
live humbly as he lived
serve all those in need
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
live humbly as he lived
serve all those in need
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Sheep – haiku – 3
Open your hearts
offer them a hand in love
help others as he would
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
offer them a hand in love
help others as he would
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Sheep – haiku – 1
Following his call
doing as he had done there
caring for others
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
doing as he had done there
caring for others
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
Christ – haiku – 9
The way to life, Christ
Truth of the love of God, Son
The life eternal
January 25, 2009
Truth of the love of God, Son
The life eternal
January 25, 2009
Christ – haiku – 8
The word made flesh then
fulfilling all the prophets
dying so we live
January 25, 2009
fulfilling all the prophets
dying so we live
January 25, 2009
Christ – haiku – 6
My life, reborn
walking this path with Christ now
trying to be like him
January 25, 2009
walking this path with Christ now
trying to be like him
January 25, 2009
Favorite things - by Erica Berberena
I have a few Favorite things,
there are very good to,
every time I’m feeling sad,
they make me smile So
big.
11/2/08
by Erica Berberena
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 19,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
there are very good to,
every time I’m feeling sad,
they make me smile So
big.
11/2/08
by Erica Berberena
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 19,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
My Prayer - by Erica Berberena
now I pray,
to my lord
and I say,
dear lord,
be with me
and I want to say more,
but it’s my time to go.
10/16/08
by Erica Berberena
to my lord
and I say,
dear lord,
be with me
and I want to say more,
but it’s my time to go.
10/16/08
by Erica Berberena
Days - by Erica Berberena
Day by day,
month by year,
I will stay,
right here,
where I will not stray,
away from where I am to stay.
10/16/08
by Erica Berberena
month by year,
I will stay,
right here,
where I will not stray,
away from where I am to stay.
10/16/08
by Erica Berberena
Day of the Dead - by Erica Berberena
listening, hearing, little things,
moaning, groaning, and tee-he-he’s
These are the things we you hear,
on this night when you are here.
so go home and hide your faces,
this would happen to you in every place.
So go home and celebrate it.
It’s the day of the dead.
and it’s time is here.
10/30/08
by Erica Berberena
moaning, groaning, and tee-he-he’s
These are the things we you hear,
on this night when you are here.
so go home and hide your faces,
this would happen to you in every place.
So go home and celebrate it.
It’s the day of the dead.
and it’s time is here.
10/30/08
by Erica Berberena
Christ – haiku
The Way, Truth, the Life
In you the journey, study,
true life, eternal
January 25, 2009
John 14:6
In you the journey, study,
true life, eternal
January 25, 2009
John 14:6
Sermon - "Righteous Say When", by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, Suncook United Methodist Church, January 25, 2009
Matthew 25:31-40
The Message Bible
A reading from the gospel according to Matthew…it is the parable of the Sheep and the Goats: (I am reading from the Message Bible this morning)
The Sheep and the Goats
31-33"When he finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, the Son of Man will take his place on his glorious throne. Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, putting sheep to his right and goats to his left. 34-36"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. And here's why:
I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.'
37-40"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.'
I would ask that you would pray with me…Loving Creator, Almighty God…you who poured out your Spirit on the day of Pentecost. I ask that you would again pour out your Spirit on all of us gathered here today. By the power of your Spirit may we discern what it is that you would have us hear this morning. May your message be heard through me or in-spite of me. May the meditations of my heart and the words of my mouth be pleasing to you oh Lord my Rock and my Redeemer. Amen.
Have you ever noticed (Like Huntley has mentioned before) that Jesus talks in parables so that we ordinary people can understand. These parables make us think of our lives and how these parables are much like what we are going through…are doing…are thinking…or even what we are seeing around us. When I read the Scripture from Matthew this morning…the first thought that came to mind was the Suncook United Methodist Church. It made me think “I am glad that I am shepherding sheep rather than goats!” Don’t get me wrong…we all have those times when we are like the goats…times when we think of self first…times we don’t see the suffering and hurt around us…but for the most part…I see this church more like sheep. (Amen!)
When I read…I was hungry you fed me…it made me think of the Our Families Table. You reach out to those around you with a hot meal…fellowship…and love. When I read…I was thirsty and you gave me a drink…I thought about how you open the doors to all who thirst for Christ in their lives…how you welcome all who enter these doors as if they have been coming here for a life time. They are welcomed with the love of Christ. If I met anyone thirsts for Christ in their lives…I would direct them to 152 Main Street in Suncook, NH where the love of Christ overflows to all who enter there. When I read…I was homeless and you gave me a room…it made me think about how this church opens their doors to people who may not have anyplace else to go. You have NA and AA Meetings each week, there is a Daisy Scout Troop who meets here every other Tuesday, there is a CAPS Meeting every fourth Tuesday of the month…the list goes on. The part about being sick and you stopped to visit me made me think about how much you love and care for each other here. If someone is missing from the flock…you make sure that someone calls or visits them, when they are in the hospital…you visit them…if they are home bound…you make sure they get a bulletin and a copy of the sermon.
The last part….when I was in prison you came to me…made me stop and think. When I was in Prison you came to me… I want you to imagine with me this morning (I know it’s early but I’ll talk you through it). You are sitting in a jail cell…no one seems to care about you. You know that you have done wrong but that doesn’t make you worthless. You want to make the changes you need in life but you just don’t know where to start. You feel lost and alone…maybe even angry about life. You don’t know anything about the power of forgiveness that can be found in our Lord Jesus Christ…heck…you can’t even forgive yourself never mind someone else for giving you. You may be thinking that you are too bad…you have done too much wrong in your life to be forgiven by Jesus. These types of thought and feelings happen every day in the lives of prisoners. They live with guilt and self hatred…hey live with the feeling of being worthless.
You may be asking yourself “What can be done to help change their lives around? How can they hear the Gospel of Grace? How can they see there is a better way?” I am glad that you asked these questions…it shows you are thinking “out of the boat.” Well…I can tell you, from experience that we can reach those who think they are unreachable and help them on the road to recovery. About four years ago, when I was at Wesley UMC, I heard the call to reach out to those who are behind bars in prison. As I began this ministry I learned that they not only were behind physical bars but they were also behind those invisible bars that we put in place ourselves.
I was working with the women at the Shea Farm Half-Way House out on Iron Works Road in Concord. I began by teaching Bible Study to them…I believe it was the Sisters Bible study that teaches how to apply Scripture to the everyday life of women…it started out with only two or three women but quickly grew into a class of ten. What made this study grow? What was it they were getting out of it that made them spread the word about the study I was teaching? Well…I actually asked these questions to these women and the answer I got gave me great joy and also humbled me. The great joy part was that they wanted to hear more about how to apply scripture to their lives so that they could make a change for the better. They were beginning to understand that God has a purpose in their life and it was a lot better than the life that they believed that they were destined to live. The humbling part was that I was the teacher and how they felt about me. They felt that I was there not to judge them but to help them…they knew that I would sit and listen to them as they told their stories and give them some glimmer of hope in my reply to them. They felt as if Christ was speaking to them, through me, and felt His presence each time we met. (Boy…how humbling is that…and a little scary too. I was there as Christ’s Ambassador and they were seeing Christ in me…I thought “boy, I better not mess this one up!” I knew the only way to reach them was to let Christ rule over the study…not me)
At another time, over the last 4 years, I taught a Recovery Bible Study with the women there. As we began to study and share stories of our lives, the Holy Spirit did an extraordinary thing (But then again…I am awe struck…all the time…at how the Spirit works in human beings), they began to see the places in their hearts…in their souls…that needed mending…that needed to touch the garment of Jesus Christ and be healed. They looked forward to our meetings each week and if I was not there for some reason, they began to meet with each other anyway. If I was sick or one of my children were sick, they prayed for me or my children. (Something they didn’t do before. They were beginning to become a congregation of people not just “Lone Rangers”). Jesus met them…right where they were…and began the healing process with them. Some of them even began to come to church and join Wesley when they reached the point that they could go out into the community with a curfew on when they needed to be back at the house. If someone hadn’t gone to visit them while in prison who knows where they would be now? Don’t get me wrong…some turn back to what they were doing before the studies (they had what some call “jailhouse religion.” They are all religious while they are in jail but as soon as they get out they set it aside and forget about it.) But there were some who continued to follow Christ and make the changes they needed to in their life.
I was in prison and you came to me…I have just been recertified for entrance into the prison system. I have been asked to do some one-on-one with the inmates not only at the Shea Farm but also those who are still in the “prison” with the “big walls”, as well as bible study with them (no that doesn’t mean that I am leaving Suncook. This is my “allegiance” lies) you see…this is one of the passions God has given me. It is not easy work but it has its own rewards. Jesus said to His Disciples “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” These men and women need our help, they need our prayers, and without them they may just never hear the Gospel of Christ. My question for you today is this…is there a Spirits prompting for you to go out in the vineyard? Are there gifts and talents that you have that you could share with these men and women…these other sheep that have wandered from the sheepfold? Listen…do you hear a voice on the wind calling you to action? If so…consider spending some time with these “goats” to help then become the sheep that God has intended them to be all along.
Amen.
The Message Bible
A reading from the gospel according to Matthew…it is the parable of the Sheep and the Goats: (I am reading from the Message Bible this morning)
The Sheep and the Goats
31-33"When he finally arrives, blazing in beauty and all his angels with him, the Son of Man will take his place on his glorious throne. Then all the nations will be arranged before him and he will sort the people out, much as a shepherd sorts out sheep and goats, putting sheep to his right and goats to his left. 34-36"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Enter, you who are blessed by my Father! Take what's coming to you in this kingdom. It's been ready for you since the world's foundation. And here's why:
I was hungry and you fed me,
I was thirsty and you gave me a drink,
I was homeless and you gave me a room,
I was shivering and you gave me clothes,
I was sick and you stopped to visit,
I was in prison and you came to me.'
37-40"Then those 'sheep' are going to say, 'Master, what are you talking about? When did we ever see you hungry and feed you, thirsty and give you a drink? And when did we ever see you sick or in prison and come to you?' Then the King will say, 'I'm telling the solemn truth: Whenever you did one of these things to someone overlooked or ignored, that was me—you did it to me.'
I would ask that you would pray with me…Loving Creator, Almighty God…you who poured out your Spirit on the day of Pentecost. I ask that you would again pour out your Spirit on all of us gathered here today. By the power of your Spirit may we discern what it is that you would have us hear this morning. May your message be heard through me or in-spite of me. May the meditations of my heart and the words of my mouth be pleasing to you oh Lord my Rock and my Redeemer. Amen.
Have you ever noticed (Like Huntley has mentioned before) that Jesus talks in parables so that we ordinary people can understand. These parables make us think of our lives and how these parables are much like what we are going through…are doing…are thinking…or even what we are seeing around us. When I read the Scripture from Matthew this morning…the first thought that came to mind was the Suncook United Methodist Church. It made me think “I am glad that I am shepherding sheep rather than goats!” Don’t get me wrong…we all have those times when we are like the goats…times when we think of self first…times we don’t see the suffering and hurt around us…but for the most part…I see this church more like sheep. (Amen!)
When I read…I was hungry you fed me…it made me think of the Our Families Table. You reach out to those around you with a hot meal…fellowship…and love. When I read…I was thirsty and you gave me a drink…I thought about how you open the doors to all who thirst for Christ in their lives…how you welcome all who enter these doors as if they have been coming here for a life time. They are welcomed with the love of Christ. If I met anyone thirsts for Christ in their lives…I would direct them to 152 Main Street in Suncook, NH where the love of Christ overflows to all who enter there. When I read…I was homeless and you gave me a room…it made me think about how this church opens their doors to people who may not have anyplace else to go. You have NA and AA Meetings each week, there is a Daisy Scout Troop who meets here every other Tuesday, there is a CAPS Meeting every fourth Tuesday of the month…the list goes on. The part about being sick and you stopped to visit me made me think about how much you love and care for each other here. If someone is missing from the flock…you make sure that someone calls or visits them, when they are in the hospital…you visit them…if they are home bound…you make sure they get a bulletin and a copy of the sermon.
The last part….when I was in prison you came to me…made me stop and think. When I was in Prison you came to me… I want you to imagine with me this morning (I know it’s early but I’ll talk you through it). You are sitting in a jail cell…no one seems to care about you. You know that you have done wrong but that doesn’t make you worthless. You want to make the changes you need in life but you just don’t know where to start. You feel lost and alone…maybe even angry about life. You don’t know anything about the power of forgiveness that can be found in our Lord Jesus Christ…heck…you can’t even forgive yourself never mind someone else for giving you. You may be thinking that you are too bad…you have done too much wrong in your life to be forgiven by Jesus. These types of thought and feelings happen every day in the lives of prisoners. They live with guilt and self hatred…hey live with the feeling of being worthless.
You may be asking yourself “What can be done to help change their lives around? How can they hear the Gospel of Grace? How can they see there is a better way?” I am glad that you asked these questions…it shows you are thinking “out of the boat.” Well…I can tell you, from experience that we can reach those who think they are unreachable and help them on the road to recovery. About four years ago, when I was at Wesley UMC, I heard the call to reach out to those who are behind bars in prison. As I began this ministry I learned that they not only were behind physical bars but they were also behind those invisible bars that we put in place ourselves.
I was working with the women at the Shea Farm Half-Way House out on Iron Works Road in Concord. I began by teaching Bible Study to them…I believe it was the Sisters Bible study that teaches how to apply Scripture to the everyday life of women…it started out with only two or three women but quickly grew into a class of ten. What made this study grow? What was it they were getting out of it that made them spread the word about the study I was teaching? Well…I actually asked these questions to these women and the answer I got gave me great joy and also humbled me. The great joy part was that they wanted to hear more about how to apply scripture to their lives so that they could make a change for the better. They were beginning to understand that God has a purpose in their life and it was a lot better than the life that they believed that they were destined to live. The humbling part was that I was the teacher and how they felt about me. They felt that I was there not to judge them but to help them…they knew that I would sit and listen to them as they told their stories and give them some glimmer of hope in my reply to them. They felt as if Christ was speaking to them, through me, and felt His presence each time we met. (Boy…how humbling is that…and a little scary too. I was there as Christ’s Ambassador and they were seeing Christ in me…I thought “boy, I better not mess this one up!” I knew the only way to reach them was to let Christ rule over the study…not me)
At another time, over the last 4 years, I taught a Recovery Bible Study with the women there. As we began to study and share stories of our lives, the Holy Spirit did an extraordinary thing (But then again…I am awe struck…all the time…at how the Spirit works in human beings), they began to see the places in their hearts…in their souls…that needed mending…that needed to touch the garment of Jesus Christ and be healed. They looked forward to our meetings each week and if I was not there for some reason, they began to meet with each other anyway. If I was sick or one of my children were sick, they prayed for me or my children. (Something they didn’t do before. They were beginning to become a congregation of people not just “Lone Rangers”). Jesus met them…right where they were…and began the healing process with them. Some of them even began to come to church and join Wesley when they reached the point that they could go out into the community with a curfew on when they needed to be back at the house. If someone hadn’t gone to visit them while in prison who knows where they would be now? Don’t get me wrong…some turn back to what they were doing before the studies (they had what some call “jailhouse religion.” They are all religious while they are in jail but as soon as they get out they set it aside and forget about it.) But there were some who continued to follow Christ and make the changes they needed to in their life.
I was in prison and you came to me…I have just been recertified for entrance into the prison system. I have been asked to do some one-on-one with the inmates not only at the Shea Farm but also those who are still in the “prison” with the “big walls”, as well as bible study with them (no that doesn’t mean that I am leaving Suncook. This is my “allegiance” lies) you see…this is one of the passions God has given me. It is not easy work but it has its own rewards. Jesus said to His Disciples “The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.” These men and women need our help, they need our prayers, and without them they may just never hear the Gospel of Christ. My question for you today is this…is there a Spirits prompting for you to go out in the vineyard? Are there gifts and talents that you have that you could share with these men and women…these other sheep that have wandered from the sheepfold? Listen…do you hear a voice on the wind calling you to action? If so…consider spending some time with these “goats” to help then become the sheep that God has intended them to be all along.
Amen.
Judged, by His Life
Returning, in judgment
separating his own, gathering his flock
judging, by his life
by his example alone,
those who heard the lessons
the message of the Master
and yoked themselves to him
who heard, “Follow me”, and followed
who heard one crying out
and served them, as they had gifts
who could, who believed
those who walked in the shoes
those who donned the lamb’s sandals
and served as he served
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
separating his own, gathering his flock
judging, by his life
by his example alone,
those who heard the lessons
the message of the Master
and yoked themselves to him
who heard, “Follow me”, and followed
who heard one crying out
and served them, as they had gifts
who could, who believed
those who walked in the shoes
those who donned the lamb’s sandals
and served as he served
January 25, 2009
Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
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