Imagining a different world,
less war than we know
less hate for those different from us
more love, for all peoples
each man, woman, each child
following the example
of our brother, the Son
Love as our guide,
the nature of God
bringing all to him
all that we can
Walking as he walked
humbly on the earth
telling our neighbors
of the wonders of his birth
Bringing his message
of redemption from our sin
loving our neighbors
as he told us to
his mark upon our sin
Turning our lives
from our wills
to the voice of God
the Spirit dwelling deep
within our loving hearts
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Monday, July 06, 2009
Less Greed
Changing our focus, the nature of our ways
less greed, more compassion, more sharing
for all whom we meet, for all in the world
caring for our brothers, our sisters
as our savior showed us
turning our lives
over to God
Walking with our brother
who gave his life for us
serving in His name
so all would be free
A message of hope
of freedom from our sin
life eternal if we but follow him
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
less greed, more compassion, more sharing
for all whom we meet, for all in the world
caring for our brothers, our sisters
as our savior showed us
turning our lives
over to God
Walking with our brother
who gave his life for us
serving in His name
so all would be free
A message of hope
of freedom from our sin
life eternal if we but follow him
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
A Free Life
What we are offered
a free life, a gift of grace
given by our creator
the price paid by the savior
ours for the taking
in an act of faith
A free life, free from sin
free from the judgment of death
to live and walk humbly
in love with our neighbors
sharing the grace, the good news
the redemption of God
Following the example
of our savior, our brother
seeking to aid and to comfort
to walk in the light
Guided by the Spirit
our path not our own
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
a free life, a gift of grace
given by our creator
the price paid by the savior
ours for the taking
in an act of faith
A free life, free from sin
free from the judgment of death
to live and walk humbly
in love with our neighbors
sharing the grace, the good news
the redemption of God
Following the example
of our savior, our brother
seeking to aid and to comfort
to walk in the light
Guided by the Spirit
our path not our own
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Animated by God’s Spirit
Our lives changes, forever
turning from ourselves, from our choosing
moving, animated by God’s Spirit
to see God’s plan, our path turning
from the world to our savior
to his loving example
giving his life over
to the will of God
walking as a servant
sacrificing himself
that we may live
A loving response,
in our offering in return
for the grace heaped upon us
the rising from the waters with him
up into the light of God
living, moving through our days
animated by God’s Spirit
living within us
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
turning from ourselves, from our choosing
moving, animated by God’s Spirit
to see God’s plan, our path turning
from the world to our savior
to his loving example
giving his life over
to the will of God
walking as a servant
sacrificing himself
that we may live
A loving response,
in our offering in return
for the grace heaped upon us
the rising from the waters with him
up into the light of God
living, moving through our days
animated by God’s Spirit
living within us
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Fighting for Freedom
In the words of the weekend
the scripture, the words so long ago
the reminders of our friends as a nation
as a people of faith
granted freedom by the choices
by the giving of grace
Fighting for freedoms
that freedom may grow
inalienable, a God-given right
still to this day
around the globe
people yearning to be free
Part of our choices,
to fight with them
so that one day,
all will enjoy
that which we hold dear
freedoms from oppression
freedoms of the Spirit
free indeed
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
the scripture, the words so long ago
the reminders of our friends as a nation
as a people of faith
granted freedom by the choices
by the giving of grace
Fighting for freedoms
that freedom may grow
inalienable, a God-given right
still to this day
around the globe
people yearning to be free
Part of our choices,
to fight with them
so that one day,
all will enjoy
that which we hold dear
freedoms from oppression
freedoms of the Spirit
free indeed
July 5, 2009 and July 6, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Sunday, July 05, 2009
How Freedom Grows
By loving one another
following in his footsteps
guided by His example,
by the indwelling Spirit
this is how freedom grows
In the hearts of the faithful
acting out in love
touching the hearts of another
planting seeds from above
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
following in his footsteps
guided by His example,
by the indwelling Spirit
this is how freedom grows
In the hearts of the faithful
acting out in love
touching the hearts of another
planting seeds from above
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Living by the Spirit
Our choice, to live by our wills
the world’s ways, or
to live by the Spirit
guiding our path
Teaching us to walk,
as the Lord showed
as he lived, loving all
caring for the least, the last, the lost
making the way easier
for all who believed
We may walk in the light
beside our savior
showing love to our neighbors
as he has commanded
Living by his example
his model for our journey
all the days of our lives
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
the world’s ways, or
to live by the Spirit
guiding our path
Teaching us to walk,
as the Lord showed
as he lived, loving all
caring for the least, the last, the lost
making the way easier
for all who believed
We may walk in the light
beside our savior
showing love to our neighbors
as he has commanded
Living by his example
his model for our journey
all the days of our lives
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
A Battle of Living
Ways of living, at odds
opposed to one another
no compromise, no living together
We are free; but we must choose
One way to the cross,
one way to the grave
One way to love
one way to greed and hate
One way to grace
one way to condemnation of the law
One way of hope
one way of despair.
Free to choose, one and all
to follow the master
or our own will
no compromise,
no living together.
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
opposed to one another
no compromise, no living together
We are free; but we must choose
One way to the cross,
one way to the grave
One way to love
one way to greed and hate
One way to grace
one way to condemnation of the law
One way of hope
one way of despair.
Free to choose, one and all
to follow the master
or our own will
no compromise,
no living together.
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Less Suffering
We may choose, lift up others
go where there is need
bring hope, less suffering
around the world, our nation
the freedom we have
able, abundance,
riches heaped upon us
able to give
able to provide
to love as Christ showed us
to reach to those who are in need
to lift up one another
to provide hope
to a world desperate for healing
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
go where there is need
bring hope, less suffering
around the world, our nation
the freedom we have
able, abundance,
riches heaped upon us
able to give
able to provide
to love as Christ showed us
to reach to those who are in need
to lift up one another
to provide hope
to a world desperate for healing
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
A Different Way to Live
A calling of the apostle
in the words to the church
a different way of living
not conformed to this earth
Guided by the Spirit
away from the sins of man
walking with our savior
on this journey, hand in hand
Following a different direction
love of our neighbor our call
serving one another
giving to them our all
Leading us to services
our hands to help them all
healing, caring, loving our brothers
our sisters, so is the master’s call
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
in the words to the church
a different way of living
not conformed to this earth
Guided by the Spirit
away from the sins of man
walking with our savior
on this journey, hand in hand
Following a different direction
love of our neighbor our call
serving one another
giving to them our all
Leading us to services
our hands to help them all
healing, caring, loving our brothers
our sisters, so is the master’s call
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
As Joshua Said
The scripture, the message to the church
to each disciple, then and now,
the words of the apostle,
calling each of us
making a choice
A choice to follow the world
to find fulfillment in its standards
Or to say as Joshua said,
aligning our lives
to the service of God
to the will of the father
over the desires of his self
To love our neighbors
selfless service as our guide
to share the good news
our brother at our side
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
Joshua 24:15
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
to each disciple, then and now,
the words of the apostle,
calling each of us
making a choice
A choice to follow the world
to find fulfillment in its standards
Or to say as Joshua said,
aligning our lives
to the service of God
to the will of the father
over the desires of his self
To love our neighbors
selfless service as our guide
to share the good news
our brother at our side
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
Joshua 24:15
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Radical Living
Not subtle changes,
we are not able
to move back and forth
radical living, choosing one path or the other
the way of the world
to the victor the spoils;
or the way of the servant
the way of love,
of humbly walking with our neighbor,
yoked to our brother;
to walk in darkness,
or to walk in the light;
By our own will
or the will of God.
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
we are not able
to move back and forth
radical living, choosing one path or the other
the way of the world
to the victor the spoils;
or the way of the servant
the way of love,
of humbly walking with our neighbor,
yoked to our brother;
to walk in darkness,
or to walk in the light;
By our own will
or the will of God.
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Advantages like Me
Before the chancel, the pulpit,
in the front of the nave,
preaching a message of love
of the freedom to love
the choice we enjoy
as children of God
as citizens of this land
a different way of living
calling to us
not worldly goals; but freedoms
of the Spirit, of the claim
the will of God for our lives
She offered her witness,
the reading of his letter
on the choices we safe
in the freedom of Christ
as a people, as individuals
to follow the world
or to follow the Spirit
the choice is ours
mutually exclusive,
one way or the other.
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
Matthew 5:3-12
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
in the front of the nave,
preaching a message of love
of the freedom to love
the choice we enjoy
as children of God
as citizens of this land
a different way of living
calling to us
not worldly goals; but freedoms
of the Spirit, of the claim
the will of God for our lives
She offered her witness,
the reading of his letter
on the choices we safe
in the freedom of Christ
as a people, as individuals
to follow the world
or to follow the Spirit
the choice is ours
mutually exclusive,
one way or the other.
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
Matthew 5:3-12
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Choices of Living
One way or another
choices of living
of which master we will follow
of what we will hold dear
To follow the earth, our worldly desires
or to follow our king, who offered his all.
To love as he commanded, to walk in the Spirit
or to walk in the darkness of our own sin
Such are the choices,
the freedom we’re given
by the sacrifice of our Savior
by the grace of our God
Our for the choosing
the path of our futures
his for the judging
at the end of the age
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
choices of living
of which master we will follow
of what we will hold dear
To follow the earth, our worldly desires
or to follow our king, who offered his all.
To love as he commanded, to walk in the Spirit
or to walk in the darkness of our own sin
Such are the choices,
the freedom we’re given
by the sacrifice of our Savior
by the grace of our God
Our for the choosing
the path of our futures
his for the judging
at the end of the age
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
A Voice of Truth
In the message, the letter
A mirror raised up
the reality before us
our choices of life
the way of the freedoms we share
the choices we are able to make
A prophet, a gadfly
telling the truth
of the left and the right
of the way of the world
of death and destruction
of the way of the Christ
love and light enduring
But either our choice
ours to the end
freedom is power
awesome and real
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
A mirror raised up
the reality before us
our choices of life
the way of the freedoms we share
the choices we are able to make
A prophet, a gadfly
telling the truth
of the left and the right
of the way of the world
of death and destruction
of the way of the Christ
love and light enduring
But either our choice
ours to the end
freedom is power
awesome and real
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Unlike Other Places
The difference of America
freedoms we enjoy,
the freedom to worship,
the freedom from want
so different from others
around this troubled world
A responsibility, a meaning
in the freedoms we enjoy
whether to follow Christ’s example
of follow the worlds’.
We are free to choose
more than most other people
not fighting for our daily bread,
our place in the world.
We more than most,
unlike other places by far
can help, can love
make a difference
changing lives
as people, individuals,
as a nation,
as a community of faith
to offer God’s love
in all that we do
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
Matthew 5:3-12
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
freedoms we enjoy,
the freedom to worship,
the freedom from want
so different from others
around this troubled world
A responsibility, a meaning
in the freedoms we enjoy
whether to follow Christ’s example
of follow the worlds’.
We are free to choose
more than most other people
not fighting for our daily bread,
our place in the world.
We more than most,
unlike other places by far
can help, can love
make a difference
changing lives
as people, individuals,
as a nation,
as a community of faith
to offer God’s love
in all that we do
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
Matthew 5:3-12
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
A Warning
In the instructions for the disciplines
the ones he sent out
words on the consequence
to those who would doubt
dust kicked off, shaken in their parting
a condemnation, a judgment
the price of rejection
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
the ones he sent out
words on the consequence
to those who would doubt
dust kicked off, shaken in their parting
a condemnation, a judgment
the price of rejection
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
Reckless Faith
As much as walking on the water,
leaving home unprepared, out into the world
wholly dependent, trusting in strangers
relying on God
So were the disciples, timid, untrained
sent by the shepherd, out of the flock
out to perform miracles, to heal in his name
Sent into the world, purposely
without necessities, vulnerable
to walk in their midst,
living off hospitality, faith alone
A warning, a command
in the words of the King
to shake off the dust of their sandals
to any who would doubt
Only one chance, to answer the call
how lucky we are, to the offering for all
a God of many chances,
for repentance to the end
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
leaving home unprepared, out into the world
wholly dependent, trusting in strangers
relying on God
So were the disciples, timid, untrained
sent by the shepherd, out of the flock
out to perform miracles, to heal in his name
Sent into the world, purposely
without necessities, vulnerable
to walk in their midst,
living off hospitality, faith alone
A warning, a command
in the words of the King
to shake off the dust of their sandals
to any who would doubt
Only one chance, to answer the call
how lucky we are, to the offering for all
a God of many chances,
for repentance to the end
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
Dust in the Sandals
Dust in their sandals
under their feet
the dust of the road
gathering in their journey
bring his word, his healing
to the people, in faith
Dust for the warning
for those who would doubt
who reject and refuse
these messengers of God
the faithful servants
on the roads of the land
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
under their feet
the dust of the road
gathering in their journey
bring his word, his healing
to the people, in faith
Dust for the warning
for those who would doubt
who reject and refuse
these messengers of God
the faithful servants
on the roads of the land
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
Gathering Dust
Sandals, for the traveling they would do
the only thing mentioned, allowed by Christ
sandals that would gather the dust
the grit as they journeyed
in ministry, in mission
bringing his message of love.
to the people of the word.
Dust they would cast off,
as the master told
if the people rejected their offering
their teaching of old
to a people in doubt
refusing to turn
their lives around
for the messiah foretold.
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
the only thing mentioned, allowed by Christ
sandals that would gather the dust
the grit as they journeyed
in ministry, in mission
bringing his message of love.
to the people of the word.
Dust they would cast off,
as the master told
if the people rejected their offering
their teaching of old
to a people in doubt
refusing to turn
their lives around
for the messiah foretold.
July 5, 2009
Mark 6:6b-13
Mark 6:1-13
Upper Room Disciplines 2009
for July 5, 2009
Creation – haiku – 1 – V2
From nothingness, void
His breath across waters, life!
it was very good
July 5, 2009
February 3, 2009
His breath across waters, life!
it was very good
July 5, 2009
February 3, 2009
Creation
From nothingness, the void
from emptiness, life
His breath moving across waters,
In the end, his voice
it was very good
July 5, 2009
February 3, 2009
from emptiness, life
His breath moving across waters,
In the end, his voice
it was very good
July 5, 2009
February 3, 2009
We are Yours
A murmur, the muted notes
whispering into the silent sanctuary
The refrain of the song, hushed breathing
more than filler, more than by his choice
Wordlessly, save for my memory,
committing ourselves
in communion with God
More than the ritual, the words intoned
the soft tones of the organ
bringing us closer
together with God
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
and the hymn, “Take Our Bread We Ask You”,
by Joseph Wise
softly played by the organist after communion
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
whispering into the silent sanctuary
The refrain of the song, hushed breathing
more than filler, more than by his choice
Wordlessly, save for my memory,
committing ourselves
in communion with God
More than the ritual, the words intoned
the soft tones of the organ
bringing us closer
together with God
July 5, 2009
Declaration of Independence
and
Psalm 48:1-3
John 8:31-36
Galatians 5:13-26
and sermon by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
“Love As You Are Loved”,
and the hymn, “Take Our Bread We Ask You”,
by Joseph Wise
softly played by the organist after communion
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Pieces of Bread
small pieces of bread
broken and shared
piece of the one loaf
given to each, a reminder
a taste of the banquet
prepared already.
Given for us, a sacrifice of love
His body broken for us
giving us life, evermore
July 5, 2009
Communion
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
broken and shared
piece of the one loaf
given to each, a reminder
a taste of the banquet
prepared already.
Given for us, a sacrifice of love
His body broken for us
giving us life, evermore
July 5, 2009
Communion
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 5, 2009
Freedom
On this day, in our land
one type of freedom
proclaimed from their words
their names written on the page
claiming for our people
a new nation
founded upon freedom
upon God-given, inalienable rights
won by sacrifices of men and women
down through the ages.
An earlier day, a wondrous, awesome day
true freedom, given by grace
offered not merely by words;
but by the sacrifice, the resurrection
of our Lord, the risen Christ
won not on the battlefield;
but upon a wooden cross.
Freedom to be the good neighbor
to love one another
to carry on His work
and to heal in His name.
Freedom to spread the good news
to the ends of the earth
to share our gifts
and the joys He brings;
to walk humbly with God
and with our neighbors,
all whom we meet.
July 4, 2009
Declaration of Independence
Galatians 5:13-26
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
one type of freedom
proclaimed from their words
their names written on the page
claiming for our people
a new nation
founded upon freedom
upon God-given, inalienable rights
won by sacrifices of men and women
down through the ages.
An earlier day, a wondrous, awesome day
true freedom, given by grace
offered not merely by words;
but by the sacrifice, the resurrection
of our Lord, the risen Christ
won not on the battlefield;
but upon a wooden cross.
Freedom to be the good neighbor
to love one another
to carry on His work
and to heal in His name.
Freedom to spread the good news
to the ends of the earth
to share our gifts
and the joys He brings;
to walk humbly with God
and with our neighbors,
all whom we meet.
July 4, 2009
Declaration of Independence
Galatians 5:13-26
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
Free to Love
No longer slave, no longer captive
free from the judgment
of sin and death.
No longer under the law;
by grace alone redeemed
a sacrifice of love, our debts forever paid.
Free to love, so we should be
our lives for one another,
not for worldly gain alone.
Free to care, for our brother, for our sister,
making their way easier, their loads lighter;
we are following His example,
our servant king, our Savior, our Lord.
July 4, 2009
Declaration of Independence
Galatians 5:13-26
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
free from the judgment
of sin and death.
No longer under the law;
by grace alone redeemed
a sacrifice of love, our debts forever paid.
Free to love, so we should be
our lives for one another,
not for worldly gain alone.
Free to care, for our brother, for our sister,
making their way easier, their loads lighter;
we are following His example,
our servant king, our Savior, our Lord.
July 4, 2009
Declaration of Independence
Galatians 5:13-26
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
Liberty
Liberty, from tyranny
from oppression,
for a sovereign across the sea
So we began, so we claimed our right
in Philadelphia that summer
so long ago, on this day.
Throwing off the shackles
the weight of the crown
charting a new course
a new nation, free and equal
an aspiration, a hope
written in those words of mettle.
May we ever strive, onward
working together, to achieve this dream
a country at peace
and with liberty and justice for all;
None knowing want, none living in fear
to this prayer, this day especially
we hold them dear.
July 4, 2009
Declaration of Independence
Galatians 5:13-26
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
from oppression,
for a sovereign across the sea
So we began, so we claimed our right
in Philadelphia that summer
so long ago, on this day.
Throwing off the shackles
the weight of the crown
charting a new course
a new nation, free and equal
an aspiration, a hope
written in those words of mettle.
May we ever strive, onward
working together, to achieve this dream
a country at peace
and with liberty and justice for all;
None knowing want, none living in fear
to this prayer, this day especially
we hold them dear.
July 4, 2009
Declaration of Independence
Galatians 5:13-26
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
Arms Raised, Around the Center
Each of them, arms raised
around the center, the connected circle
individual petals of the coneflower
clothed in pastel, muted purple,
the sacred dancers
of the silent ballet
Rising from their dormancy
up, up, into the light
an opening coil, the dancers stretching
to the ends of their fingertips
in their movement singing in praise
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
around the center, the connected circle
individual petals of the coneflower
clothed in pastel, muted purple,
the sacred dancers
of the silent ballet
Rising from their dormancy
up, up, into the light
an opening coil, the dancers stretching
to the ends of their fingertips
in their movement singing in praise
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
Saturday, July 04, 2009
With Pen to the Page
With pen to the page
they spoke across the ages
to the cause we keep
to the things we believe
of a freedom to be
When all men are free
Words worth fighting for
four score and more,
remembering all
who sacrificed and died
so that this land could be
as the founders prayed we may be
united and free
June 30, 2009
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
they spoke across the ages
to the cause we keep
to the things we believe
of a freedom to be
When all men are free
Words worth fighting for
four score and more,
remembering all
who sacrificed and died
so that this land could be
as the founders prayed we may be
united and free
June 30, 2009
written for July 4th celebration
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
Yearning for the Son
As the flower to the sun,
so may we ever be
yearning for the Son
July 4, 2009
the flowers this morning,
after weeks of rain
so may we ever be
yearning for the Son
July 4, 2009
the flowers this morning,
after weeks of rain
The Movement of Their Arms
As if in the breeze,
stopping even momentarily
able to see the movement of their arms
swaying in the morning
the sun coaxing them
the petals from their slumber
the yearning, drawn to the light
the flowers joining the chorus of the day
praising the creator, the warming of the sun
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
stopping even momentarily
able to see the movement of their arms
swaying in the morning
the sun coaxing them
the petals from their slumber
the yearning, drawn to the light
the flowers joining the chorus of the day
praising the creator, the warming of the sun
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
With Hands Raised
With their hands raised
like sacred dancers,
moving to silent music
the dance of the breath of God
invisible breezes
the petal of the coneflowers
each like the arms of the dancers
swaying in unison
in time to the rhythm
the dance of creation
in the bright morning sun
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
like sacred dancers,
moving to silent music
the dance of the breath of God
invisible breezes
the petal of the coneflowers
each like the arms of the dancers
swaying in unison
in time to the rhythm
the dance of creation
in the bright morning sun
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
Raised in Praise
Their arms raised in praise
singing a song of worship
hands raised to the creator
the wonder of God
Oh the plants, the birds this morning
all of creation singing to the Lord
A splash of sunlight, the warming spirits
an awakening, in love
to the majesty of God
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
singing a song of worship
hands raised to the creator
the wonder of God
Oh the plants, the birds this morning
all of creation singing to the Lord
A splash of sunlight, the warming spirits
an awakening, in love
to the majesty of God
July 4, 2009
this morning,
after weeks of rain
Moms - by Shyanne L. Foss, Mother's Day, May 10, 2009
Moms
Moms are the comforting ones,
Nice, pretty, loving, friendly,
Caring for me and you.
We love our mom,
She loves us.
Whether you are one or eleven,
You will always get a hug.
May 10, 2009
written by Shyanne L. Foss
Published in booklet
by Mrs. Forest’s Third Grade Class
Mother’s Day
“Dedicated to Our Moms,
With Love”
Moms are the comforting ones,
Nice, pretty, loving, friendly,
Caring for me and you.
We love our mom,
She loves us.
Whether you are one or eleven,
You will always get a hug.
May 10, 2009
written by Shyanne L. Foss
Published in booklet
by Mrs. Forest’s Third Grade Class
Mother’s Day
“Dedicated to Our Moms,
With Love”
Pentecost
Oh to have felt the flames
all together that Pentecost
to see the tongues of fire
descending upon each one
July 4, 2009 – Twitter version
February 3, 2009
all together that Pentecost
to see the tongues of fire
descending upon each one
July 4, 2009 – Twitter version
February 3, 2009
Friday, July 03, 2009
Down to the River
A ribbon of faith,
a living stream,
like the water
we walked, singing
down to the river
A community, happy
new members joining
being baptized in the waters
into the faith
into the family
Spirit washing over them
made new, brothers and sisters
with us, with Christ
changed forever
Beloved of God
July 3, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
a living stream,
like the water
we walked, singing
down to the river
A community, happy
new members joining
being baptized in the waters
into the faith
into the family
Spirit washing over them
made new, brothers and sisters
with us, with Christ
changed forever
Beloved of God
July 3, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Running to the River
Excitement, singing, running to the water
to the river, to be washed clean
joining in the faith, by water, into the river
the Spirit filling them, filling the air
excitement of the moment, of this joy
Dying into the depths,
jumping from the water
able to walk free, up from the river bank
into the arms of family, of the congregation
laughing, singing, a community
Joining our savior, in the baptism
becoming the beloved of God
the Spirit indwelling within us
forever changed, life anew
up out of the waters
Sent forth, each of us a messenger
connected by the waters
the living waters, flowing
from the Jordan to our hearts
singing praise to our God
July 3, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
to the river, to be washed clean
joining in the faith, by water, into the river
the Spirit filling them, filling the air
excitement of the moment, of this joy
Dying into the depths,
jumping from the water
able to walk free, up from the river bank
into the arms of family, of the congregation
laughing, singing, a community
Joining our savior, in the baptism
becoming the beloved of God
the Spirit indwelling within us
forever changed, life anew
up out of the waters
Sent forth, each of us a messenger
connected by the waters
the living waters, flowing
from the Jordan to our hearts
singing praise to our God
July 3, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Front Page Article in Concord Monitor about Baptism at the Contoocook United Methodist Church
The Concord Monitor ran a wonderful article on the Congolese refugees and the baptism service in Contoocook of which I have written 17 poems (so far).
Faith endures in refuge
Faith endures in refuge
Thursday, July 02, 2009
Repeating the Message
Woven threads, back and forth
weaving a story, a rich fabric
strong fibers, bright colors
words repeating the message
the connection of our lives
Our baptism with His
the waters of the Jordan,
of the Congo, of the Contoocook
rivers connecting, living waters
His baptism, changing His life
changing our world evermore
from the inside out
The carpenter no more
through the waters dying
the Messiah rising from the waters
Repeating the good news
the message, hope for all people
in our baptism, one heart at a time
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
weaving a story, a rich fabric
strong fibers, bright colors
words repeating the message
the connection of our lives
Our baptism with His
the waters of the Jordan,
of the Congo, of the Contoocook
rivers connecting, living waters
His baptism, changing His life
changing our world evermore
from the inside out
The carpenter no more
through the waters dying
the Messiah rising from the waters
Repeating the good news
the message, hope for all people
in our baptism, one heart at a time
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
The Cadence of His Words
The current of his words
flowing waters, alive
washing over us, living waters
In remembrance of Him
His baptism in the Jordan
washing over us, living waters
His trials in the wild
protected by angels
washing over us, living waters
Their lives, their history
the pain of the dark night
washing over us, living waters
Needing the waters, the Spirit
cleansing us, healing us
washing over us, living waters
Connecting us with Him
with all believers around the world
washing over us, living waters of love
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
The current of his words
flowing waters, alive
washing over us, living waters
In remembrance of Him
His baptism in the Jordan
washing over us, living waters
His trials in the wild
protected by angels
washing over us, living waters
Their lives, their history
the pain of the dark night
washing over us, living waters
Needing the waters, the Spirit
cleansing us, healing us
washing over us, living waters
Connecting us with Him
with all believers around the world
washing over us, living waters of love
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
In the Way He Preached
Water, flowing, living waters
moving through his message, through his words
a special message of life, life changing
hope, faith, within their struggles
a knowing of their histories
of the pain they have endured
showing us all, connection.
A connection with Christ, with one another
the living waters of each time, each place
joining us in His baptism
life changing waters
washing away the old
giving us power within
to have hope in our trials
strength to spread the good news
light to share in this dark world
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
moving through his message, through his words
a special message of life, life changing
hope, faith, within their struggles
a knowing of their histories
of the pain they have endured
showing us all, connection.
A connection with Christ, with one another
the living waters of each time, each place
joining us in His baptism
life changing waters
washing away the old
giving us power within
to have hope in our trials
strength to spread the good news
light to share in this dark world
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
The Urgency of Faith
Stories of faith, of His day and ours
indwelling of our God
to withstand the evils of this world
the washing in the waters
the Spirit falling down
living within our hearts
The urgency of faith
to endure, hope in the wilderness
knowing our future with Him
A message of hope, the Good News alive
flowing like the living waters
the rivers connecting us
to our savior and to one another
all around the world
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
indwelling of our God
to withstand the evils of this world
the washing in the waters
the Spirit falling down
living within our hearts
The urgency of faith
to endure, hope in the wilderness
knowing our future with Him
A message of hope, the Good News alive
flowing like the living waters
the rivers connecting us
to our savior and to one another
all around the world
July 2, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
African Choir
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
families from the Democratic Republic of Congo,
who suffered through the massacre of August 13, 2004,
at Gatumba, their refugee camp in Burundi
See - http://www.hrw.org/legacy/backgrounder/africa/burundi/2004/0904/1.htm#_Toc81987410,
http://en.wikinews.org/wiki/Activists_remember_Burundi's_Gatumba_massacre
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
Joy in the Heart
Through the remembering
through the awful night
pain which they lived through
the steady reminder, the repeated connection
the baptism of Christ, the living waters of the Jordan
connected to their memories, to their homeland
across the waters, to the shores of the river
to the waters in which they would soon be washed
Joy in our hearts, in the sharing, in the joining
in the remembering of our baptism
of our steps of faith
dying with Christ, that darkness
but the rising, the rising into the light
into the new day, a new creation
beloved of God, each one of us
joining in his death, in his ministry,
joining in his resurrection
His good news to share
all around the world
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
through the awful night
pain which they lived through
the steady reminder, the repeated connection
the baptism of Christ, the living waters of the Jordan
connected to their memories, to their homeland
across the waters, to the shores of the river
to the waters in which they would soon be washed
Joy in our hearts, in the sharing, in the joining
in the remembering of our baptism
of our steps of faith
dying with Christ, that darkness
but the rising, the rising into the light
into the new day, a new creation
beloved of God, each one of us
joining in his death, in his ministry,
joining in his resurrection
His good news to share
all around the world
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Satan in the Wild
Christ met, we meet
Satan in the wild
vivid images, words hard to hear
of the tempting of Christ
of the carnage of massacre
of dark nights,
evil walking the earth
The connection of the story
of Christ’s baptism, of his trials
meeting Satan in the wild;
but watched over by angels
assisting him, to prepare him
his ministry to come
Our baptism, into the waters
dying into the waters
as he did, in the Jordan
rising with him, transformed
ready to face the world
Our lives protected, guided
by angels, by the Spirit living within
a ministry unfinished
left for you and for me
to spread the good news
to bring light, living waters
into the wild, into the darkness
Christ’s good news for all
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Satan in the wild
vivid images, words hard to hear
of the tempting of Christ
of the carnage of massacre
of dark nights,
evil walking the earth
The connection of the story
of Christ’s baptism, of his trials
meeting Satan in the wild;
but watched over by angels
assisting him, to prepare him
his ministry to come
Our baptism, into the waters
dying into the waters
as he did, in the Jordan
rising with him, transformed
ready to face the world
Our lives protected, guided
by angels, by the Spirit living within
a ministry unfinished
left for you and for me
to spread the good news
to bring light, living waters
into the wild, into the darkness
Christ’s good news for all
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Watched over by Angels
Even in the wilderness
Satan in the wild
we are watched over by angels
as was the Christ
Out of the waters
the Spirit, like a dove
bodily falling on us all
rising with us, new creations
living different, changed lives
Spirit guide me, lead me
beside the still waters
guide me as I walk
through dark valleys
watch over me
angels of God
lead me home
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Satan in the wild
we are watched over by angels
as was the Christ
Out of the waters
the Spirit, like a dove
bodily falling on us all
rising with us, new creations
living different, changed lives
Spirit guide me, lead me
beside the still waters
guide me as I walk
through dark valleys
watch over me
angels of God
lead me home
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Sharing the Good News
In baptism, physically, meaningfully
sharing the good news,
the gospel of the Christ
in our actions, our submission
falling into the waters
dying to that which we were
like Christ being a sacrifice
choosing to join with him
into the waters, the depths
Rising with him, into the light
new creations, touched by the Spirit
made children of God, beloved
blessed with life anew
sharing the good news
the redeeming love of God
joining our lives with our brother
our savior, our King
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
sharing the good news,
the gospel of the Christ
in our actions, our submission
falling into the waters
dying to that which we were
like Christ being a sacrifice
choosing to join with him
into the waters, the depths
Rising with him, into the light
new creations, touched by the Spirit
made children of God, beloved
blessed with life anew
sharing the good news
the redeeming love of God
joining our lives with our brother
our savior, our King
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Through the Waters (2)
streams of water,
ribbons of connection
the molecules alive
flowing through the waters
making us one
around the globe
connected with one another
within the community of faith
into the waters, dying to self
rising with Christ,
with all our brothers and sisters
through the waters
into new life
changed forever
living as children of God
the Spirit indwelling within us
new creations
by water and the Spirit
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
ribbons of connection
the molecules alive
flowing through the waters
making us one
around the globe
connected with one another
within the community of faith
into the waters, dying to self
rising with Christ,
with all our brothers and sisters
through the waters
into new life
changed forever
living as children of God
the Spirit indwelling within us
new creations
by water and the Spirit
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Celebrated in Baptism
A new life, within us,
within Him, dying to the old
to our will, to our sin
rising out of the waters
conformed to Christ
children of God
guided by the Spirit
forever different, set apart
yoke to our brother
sharing in his sacrifice
in the work he left
for us to continue
God’s transforming powers
celebrated, remembered
in the waters of baptism
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
within Him, dying to the old
to our will, to our sin
rising out of the waters
conformed to Christ
children of God
guided by the Spirit
forever different, set apart
yoke to our brother
sharing in his sacrifice
in the work he left
for us to continue
God’s transforming powers
celebrated, remembered
in the waters of baptism
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
From the Inside Out
washed wholly clean
from the inside out
our lives changed forever
into the waters of baptism
connected to Christ, to the Jordan
each of us dying with him
each rising, beloved of God
changed, transformed
by the waters, by the Spirit
now living within
the indwelling of God
walking with us
on our journey
our walk of faith
guiding us on our path
all the days of our lives
changed forever
from the inside out
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
from the inside out
our lives changed forever
into the waters of baptism
connected to Christ, to the Jordan
each of us dying with him
each rising, beloved of God
changed, transformed
by the waters, by the Spirit
now living within
the indwelling of God
walking with us
on our journey
our walk of faith
guiding us on our path
all the days of our lives
changed forever
from the inside out
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Beloved of God
We, the children, baptized like Him
beloved of God, children,
brothers and sisters with Christ, with one another
sharing in the cleansing, in the changing
our lives no longer our own
Becoming one with the church
the Spirit falling upon us
indwelling within our hearts
forever changed, as when David was anointed,
when Paul fell blind on the Damascus Road
when Christ revealed himself to Cleopas and the other
and when the Spirit fell on Pentecost
Bodily, into the waters with Christ
up from the waters in praise
to grow and serve with him
to spread the Good News
to the ends of the earth
June 30, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
beloved of God, children,
brothers and sisters with Christ, with one another
sharing in the cleansing, in the changing
our lives no longer our own
Becoming one with the church
the Spirit falling upon us
indwelling within our hearts
forever changed, as when David was anointed,
when Paul fell blind on the Damascus Road
when Christ revealed himself to Cleopas and the other
and when the Spirit fell on Pentecost
Bodily, into the waters with Christ
up from the waters in praise
to grow and serve with him
to spread the Good News
to the ends of the earth
June 30, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
From the Jordan
From the Sea, Galilee,
From the Jordan
the waters into which Christ fell
dying to his life, to the stain of sin
rising from the waters, he was made clean
From the Jordan, the waters flow
the Rift Valley, a metaphor, a means
sharing the vision of baptism,
the living waters flowing
Africa, Tanganyika, the Congo,
waters connecting, to the Christ
Out into the Atlantic,
crossing time, flowing
ribbons of water, moving,
carrying life, changing connections
Into the Merrimack,
even to us, the Contoocook
life flowing, living waters
connected by the good news
the waters of baptism
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
From the Jordan
the waters into which Christ fell
dying to his life, to the stain of sin
rising from the waters, he was made clean
From the Jordan, the waters flow
the Rift Valley, a metaphor, a means
sharing the vision of baptism,
the living waters flowing
Africa, Tanganyika, the Congo,
waters connecting, to the Christ
Out into the Atlantic,
crossing time, flowing
ribbons of water, moving,
carrying life, changing connections
Into the Merrimack,
even to us, the Contoocook
life flowing, living waters
connected by the good news
the waters of baptism
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
To the Contoocook
The flowing waters, the connection
across time, around the globe
the waters washing onto us
in the Contoocook
the living waters
by grace, touching them
like Christ, like you and me,
all of us washed by the waters
by the Spirit descending upon us
bringing us up from the depths
into the light
able to walk
with our brother
our savior, our Lord
joining him in his ministry
all around the world
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
across time, around the globe
the waters washing onto us
in the Contoocook
the living waters
by grace, touching them
like Christ, like you and me,
all of us washed by the waters
by the Spirit descending upon us
bringing us up from the depths
into the light
able to walk
with our brother
our savior, our Lord
joining him in his ministry
all around the world
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Streams of Water
living streams of water
all around the world
moving, in connection
across the globe
through time and space
flowing, ever in motion
living waters of life
in our baptism, washed by the waters
flowing ever, connecting us
with John in the wilderness
with Christ, dying into the waters
rising into the spirit
washed clean, made holy
our lives forever changed
moving with the waters
living within our hearts
June 30, 2009 and July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
all around the world
moving, in connection
across the globe
through time and space
flowing, ever in motion
living waters of life
in our baptism, washed by the waters
flowing ever, connecting us
with John in the wilderness
with Christ, dying into the waters
rising into the spirit
washed clean, made holy
our lives forever changed
moving with the waters
living within our hearts
June 30, 2009 and July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
In Connection
part of the process
like Christ, into the water
a baptism into the faith
the water of means
affirming the connection
with all who have gone before
into the waters with Christ
dying to the world, our old selves
up from the waters,
beloved of God
living, worshiping together
in connection with our Lord
with our God
calling the indwelling of the Spirit
changing our lives
from the inside out.
June 30, 2009 and July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
like Christ, into the water
a baptism into the faith
the water of means
affirming the connection
with all who have gone before
into the waters with Christ
dying to the world, our old selves
up from the waters,
beloved of God
living, worshiping together
in connection with our Lord
with our God
calling the indwelling of the Spirit
changing our lives
from the inside out.
June 30, 2009 and July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
Baptism of Life Change
Watching them, these refugees
displaced from their homelands
but connected by the water
a baptism of life change
going down to the river
these waters, connected
by the flowing waters
all part of the system
the ribbons of water
flowing, ever flowing
all part of the one river of life
a baptism of life change
before our eyes, our smiling hearts
aware for these moments
the connection we share
in the waters of baptism
around the watery globe
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
displaced from their homelands
but connected by the water
a baptism of life change
going down to the river
these waters, connected
by the flowing waters
all part of the system
the ribbons of water
flowing, ever flowing
all part of the one river of life
a baptism of life change
before our eyes, our smiling hearts
aware for these moments
the connection we share
in the waters of baptism
around the watery globe
July 1, 2009
Reverend Sammie Maxwell
Celebration of Youth
Baptism of the Teens
Psalm 130
Mark 1:1-13
and sermon, “A Baptism of Life Change”
by Bishop Peter Weaver of New England United Methodist Conference
Contoocook United Methodist Church
June 28, 2009
The Book of Mary
She who was there in the beginning
the handmaiden of God
the mother of Christ
She carried the seed of the Spirit
her life forever changed
her child resting in the manger
gifts from kings
shepherds bow at his side
Watching him grow
in the shadow of prophecy
his steps according to God’s plan
A man, reborn, a descending dove
trials in the wilderness
her son wandering, healing
his words, his life
bringing the kingdom near
Her son, a sacrificial lamb
paying for the sins of man
dying on the cross
Our savior, rising from the grave
closing the Book of Mary
May 24, 2009, June 30, 2009, and July 1, 2009
title May 23, 2009
the handmaiden of God
the mother of Christ
She carried the seed of the Spirit
her life forever changed
her child resting in the manger
gifts from kings
shepherds bow at his side
Watching him grow
in the shadow of prophecy
his steps according to God’s plan
A man, reborn, a descending dove
trials in the wilderness
her son wandering, healing
his words, his life
bringing the kingdom near
Her son, a sacrificial lamb
paying for the sins of man
dying on the cross
Our savior, rising from the grave
closing the Book of Mary
May 24, 2009, June 30, 2009, and July 1, 2009
title May 23, 2009
The Book of Joseph
Oh to have in our canon
the Book of Joseph
The story of the son
growing in the world
before the falling of the dove
To see the babe of the manger
the alien in the foreign land
the child, growing in faith
What he must have seen
the one who would raise the son
the holy one of God, into manhood
A special word of grace
in the Book of Joseph
May 24, 2009 and June 30, 2009
title May 23, 2009
the Book of Joseph
The story of the son
growing in the world
before the falling of the dove
To see the babe of the manger
the alien in the foreign land
the child, growing in faith
What he must have seen
the one who would raise the son
the holy one of God, into manhood
A special word of grace
in the Book of Joseph
May 24, 2009 and June 30, 2009
title May 23, 2009
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