No room for them in the inn
a simple stable
a manger for a bed
Joseph, Mary and the baby
strangers in their homeland
The king coming,
born under the starlight
watched by the animals
the shepherds falling to their knees
a heavenly chorus
greeting the royal birth
Strangers, wise men with gifts for a king
only they knew of his worth
Strangers in the city of David
their ancestral home
the king born in the night
the family shivering in the cold
December 19, 2009
Luke 2:6-7
& Advent Christmas offering letter
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Saturday, December 19, 2009
The Christ, a Stranger
The Christ, coming into the world
a stranger in his homeland
unseen, unheralded
by the people of God
a stranger, homeless
wandering from his home
going where the world commands
but not the stuff of man
The Christ, come into the world
to heal our brokenness
to save the lives of man
December 19, 2009
Luke 2:6-7
& Advent Christmas offering letter
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
a stranger in his homeland
unseen, unheralded
by the people of God
a stranger, homeless
wandering from his home
going where the world commands
but not the stuff of man
The Christ, come into the world
to heal our brokenness
to save the lives of man
December 19, 2009
Luke 2:6-7
& Advent Christmas offering letter
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
The Christ, Descendent of David
Coming to Bethlehem
Joseph and Mary
pregnant, expecting
the birth of the son
The Christ, descendent of David
the son of Joseph
a stranger on the earth
No room for the king
no place in the inn
a humble stable
a simple manger bed
the prophecy fulfilled
God, Emmanuel
to earth, to serve
in sacrifice, to save
December 19, 2009
Luke 2:6-7
& Advent Christmas offering letter
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Joseph and Mary
pregnant, expecting
the birth of the son
The Christ, descendent of David
the son of Joseph
a stranger on the earth
No room for the king
no place in the inn
a humble stable
a simple manger bed
the prophecy fulfilled
God, Emmanuel
to earth, to serve
in sacrifice, to save
December 19, 2009
Luke 2:6-7
& Advent Christmas offering letter
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
The Potter
Imagining
the hands of the potter
what delicate mastery
his artistry to reveal
the eyes of the potter
if we could only but see
the world, the creation
through his eyes
no more mystery
the mind of the potter
symmetry, balance
perfect creation
all for a purpose
all part of his plan
the love of the potter
holding us, shaping us
picking up the broken pieces
lovingly making us worthy
by his loving hands
December 19, 2009
Genesis 1:1-2:4a
Genesis 2:4b-25
the tension between the two traditions
giving us two creation stories
Ecclesiastes 12:7
Jeremiah 18:1-4
&
via email conversation 12/4/09
with artist and teacher
Carol Childress,
author of blog, “Choosing Joy”,
http://carolchil.blogspot.com/
and see: http://carolchil.blogspot.com/2009/12/for-everything-there-is-season.html
the hands of the potter
what delicate mastery
his artistry to reveal
the eyes of the potter
if we could only but see
the world, the creation
through his eyes
no more mystery
the mind of the potter
symmetry, balance
perfect creation
all for a purpose
all part of his plan
the love of the potter
holding us, shaping us
picking up the broken pieces
lovingly making us worthy
by his loving hands
December 19, 2009
Genesis 1:1-2:4a
Genesis 2:4b-25
the tension between the two traditions
giving us two creation stories
Ecclesiastes 12:7
Jeremiah 18:1-4
&
via email conversation 12/4/09
with artist and teacher
Carol Childress,
author of blog, “Choosing Joy”,
http://carolchil.blogspot.com/
and see: http://carolchil.blogspot.com/2009/12/for-everything-there-is-season.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. All rights reserved. Contact me
at Ray Foss
for usage. See all 25,810+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Friday, December 18, 2009
before Mary’s Song
The angels, the travel
from her home to Elizabeth
to see her cousin
to share in the wonder of God
each a part to play
in the story,
the coming of the king
the herald and the savior
in their wombs before her song
December 18, 2009
scripture before the Magnificat
Luke 1:1-45
Luke 1:1-80
&
December 7, 2009
Luke 1:26-49
Luke 2:36-38
Acts 2:17-21
Worship Theme: The Inclusiveness of God
sermon, “The Advent Conspiracy: "Three Wise Women"”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 6, 2009
Second Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Singing the Song of Mary
Our mother, of our brother
our savior, the Christ
so we sing, joining her
singing the song of Mary
its melody alive
shining in the night
the darkness lit
by his bright star
Claiming our faith like Mary
a servant of God to be
walking humbly with our creator
welcoming our king
November 27, 2009
Isaiah 2:1-4
Jeremiah 33:14-15
Luke 1:46-50 and
sermon, “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 29, 2009
First Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
& poem from last year:
------------
Magnificat
Joining Mary, her song
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
from her home to Elizabeth
to see her cousin
to share in the wonder of God
each a part to play
in the story,
the coming of the king
the herald and the savior
in their wombs before her song
December 18, 2009
scripture before the Magnificat
Luke 1:1-45
Luke 1:1-80
&
December 7, 2009
Luke 1:26-49
Luke 2:36-38
Acts 2:17-21
Worship Theme: The Inclusiveness of God
sermon, “The Advent Conspiracy: "Three Wise Women"”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 6, 2009
Second Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Singing the Song of Mary
Our mother, of our brother
our savior, the Christ
so we sing, joining her
singing the song of Mary
its melody alive
shining in the night
the darkness lit
by his bright star
Claiming our faith like Mary
a servant of God to be
walking humbly with our creator
welcoming our king
November 27, 2009
Isaiah 2:1-4
Jeremiah 33:14-15
Luke 1:46-50 and
sermon, “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 29, 2009
First Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
& poem from last year:
------------
Magnificat
Joining Mary, her song
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Wicking the Heat
wind of the day
chilling the body
whole of this place
wicking the heat
taking it away
cold settling in
planning to stay
December 16, 2009
Twitter version
chilling the body
whole of this place
wicking the heat
taking it away
cold settling in
planning to stay
December 16, 2009
Twitter version
Wicking the Heat
The wind of the day
chilling the body
the whole of this place
wicking the heat
taking it away
cold settling in
planning to stay
December 16, 2009
chilling the body
the whole of this place
wicking the heat
taking it away
cold settling in
planning to stay
December 16, 2009
Singing a Song of Advent
Singing a song of Advent
of the coming of the king
born a humble child
of him we sing
Raised to lead and preach the word
to die upon the cross
Saving all of the world
at what a terrible cost
the mighty king, a humble lamb
our savior whipped and scorned
laid in a borrowed manger
and then a borrowed tomb
Rising on the third day
on Easter morn revealed
God had saved us from death
in his rising from the grave
By grace alone we are one
with our brother and our king
of him we sing
December 16, 2009
-----------------
Singing the Song of Mary
Our mother, of our brother
our savior, the Christ
so we sing, joining her
singing the song of Mary
its melody alive
shining in the night
the darkness lit
by his bright star
Claiming our faith like Mary
a servant of God to be
walking humbly with our creator
welcoming our king
November 27, 2009
Isaiah 2:1-4
Jeremiah 33:14-15
Luke 1:46-50 and
sermon, “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 29, 2009
First Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
& poem from last year:
------------
Magnificat
Joining Mary, her song
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
of the coming of the king
born a humble child
of him we sing
Raised to lead and preach the word
to die upon the cross
Saving all of the world
at what a terrible cost
the mighty king, a humble lamb
our savior whipped and scorned
laid in a borrowed manger
and then a borrowed tomb
Rising on the third day
on Easter morn revealed
God had saved us from death
in his rising from the grave
By grace alone we are one
with our brother and our king
of him we sing
December 16, 2009
-----------------
Singing the Song of Mary
Our mother, of our brother
our savior, the Christ
so we sing, joining her
singing the song of Mary
its melody alive
shining in the night
the darkness lit
by his bright star
Claiming our faith like Mary
a servant of God to be
walking humbly with our creator
welcoming our king
November 27, 2009
Isaiah 2:1-4
Jeremiah 33:14-15
Luke 1:46-50 and
sermon, “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 29, 2009
First Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
& poem from last year:
------------
Magnificat
Joining Mary, her song
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Singing Our Advent Song
Waiting for Advent
the coming of the Lord
believing, hoping
the love of God come down
calling for the Christ-child
in all our waking prayers
hoping for his presence
to lift our earthly cares
singing our Advent song
as Mary long ago
Waiting for the Christ-child
and what his coming means
the salvation of the world
the hope for all who believe
fulfillment of the promises of God
bringing us gladly to our knees
Lifting the cares of the world
letting go of the rush and race
stilling ourselves in waiting
singing our Advent song
December 16, 2009
-----------------
Singing the Song of Mary
Our mother, of our brother
our savior, the Christ
so we sing, joining her
singing the song of Mary
its melody alive
shining in the night
the darkness lit
by his bright star
Claiming our faith like Mary
a servant of God to be
walking humbly with our creator
welcoming our king
November 27, 2009
Isaiah 2:1-4
Jeremiah 33:14-15
Luke 1:46-50 and
sermon, “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 29, 2009
First Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
& poem from last year:
------------
Magnificat
Joining Mary, her song
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
the coming of the Lord
believing, hoping
the love of God come down
calling for the Christ-child
in all our waking prayers
hoping for his presence
to lift our earthly cares
singing our Advent song
as Mary long ago
Waiting for the Christ-child
and what his coming means
the salvation of the world
the hope for all who believe
fulfillment of the promises of God
bringing us gladly to our knees
Lifting the cares of the world
letting go of the rush and race
stilling ourselves in waiting
singing our Advent song
December 16, 2009
-----------------
Singing the Song of Mary
Our mother, of our brother
our savior, the Christ
so we sing, joining her
singing the song of Mary
its melody alive
shining in the night
the darkness lit
by his bright star
Claiming our faith like Mary
a servant of God to be
walking humbly with our creator
welcoming our king
November 27, 2009
Isaiah 2:1-4
Jeremiah 33:14-15
Luke 1:46-50 and
sermon, “It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 29, 2009
First Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
& poem from last year:
------------
Magnificat
Joining Mary, her song
sung to God, for all generations -
blessings we share, each of us
with her, all creation, blessed by the creator
humble servants are we, walking with our brother
sharing this wondrous message, with her, the angels,
those who have gone before us
A choir, singing her song, our song
of praise, of grace, of God’s great works
rejoicing with our mother, our sister
at all the almighty has done for us,
for the people, the descendants of Abraham
by faith, by his love, all of us saved
Share the good news
December 21 and 27, 2008
Micah 4:1-7
Luke 1:46-55
and sermon, “An Upside Down Christmas”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Preparing Our Hearts
Coming to Advent
after our waiting
the coming of the Lord
Preparing our hearts
in the words of the one
crying in the wilderness
repenting of our evil ways
following God more nearly
seeing our neighbors
as our brothers, our sisters
humbling ourselves
before the coming
the Advent of the Christ-child
washed in the waters
changing our ways
December 15, 2009
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
“Joy Anchored in God’s Love”
Luke 3:7-18
for December 12, 2009
and for December 13, 2009
by Reverend Jonette Gay
after our waiting
the coming of the Lord
Preparing our hearts
in the words of the one
crying in the wilderness
repenting of our evil ways
following God more nearly
seeing our neighbors
as our brothers, our sisters
humbling ourselves
before the coming
the Advent of the Christ-child
washed in the waters
changing our ways
December 15, 2009
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
“Joy Anchored in God’s Love”
Luke 3:7-18
for December 12, 2009
and for December 13, 2009
by Reverend Jonette Gay
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Email 12/15/09 from the National Religious Campaign Against Torture
Dear NRCAT Supporters,
Working alongside people like you, we've had great success in 2009 in halting the use of torture in detainee interrogations and closing secret prisons. Now we need to ensure that U.S.-sponsored torture never happens again.
We need to advocate for key elements of the Executive Order to become law; we need a Commission of Inquiry on U.S.-sponsored torture since 9/11, so that we understand what we did, learn what safeguards are needed and develop a moral consensus to never let it happen again. We also need accountability. You can help us accomplish those goals.
Please make a tax-deductible gift to NRCAT today.
Our capacity to continue our work in 2010 depends on the generous contributions we receive from you and fellow supporters across the country. If each of NRCAT's supporters gave a gift of just $25 or more, we would be able to implement our plans for 2010 fully.
You can contribute online or send a check to the National Religious Campaign Against Torture, 110 Maryland Ave. NE, Suite 502, Washington, DC 20002.
A donation to NRCAT is tax-deductible.
Thank you!
Linda Gustitus, President
Rev. Richard L. Killmer, Executive Director
Working alongside people like you, we've had great success in 2009 in halting the use of torture in detainee interrogations and closing secret prisons. Now we need to ensure that U.S.-sponsored torture never happens again.
We need to advocate for key elements of the Executive Order to become law; we need a Commission of Inquiry on U.S.-sponsored torture since 9/11, so that we understand what we did, learn what safeguards are needed and develop a moral consensus to never let it happen again. We also need accountability. You can help us accomplish those goals.
Please make a tax-deductible gift to NRCAT today.
Our capacity to continue our work in 2010 depends on the generous contributions we receive from you and fellow supporters across the country. If each of NRCAT's supporters gave a gift of just $25 or more, we would be able to implement our plans for 2010 fully.
You can contribute online or send a check to the National Religious Campaign Against Torture, 110 Maryland Ave. NE, Suite 502, Washington, DC 20002.
A donation to NRCAT is tax-deductible.
Thank you!
Linda Gustitus, President
Rev. Richard L. Killmer, Executive Director
Email 12/14/09 from the National Religious Campaign Against Torture
Dear Friends:
Please email Attorney General Holder today to ask him to release the Department of Justice Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) report. The OPR report is believed to detail instances of professional misconduct by lawyers in the previous Administration's Office of Legal Counsel (OLC). Specifically, it is reported to demonstrate how lawyers in the OLC purposely misinterpreted the law in order to sanction torture and other abusive acts.
On Wednesday, Nov. 18th, Attorney General Holder told the Senate Judiciary Committee that a career prosecutor was going to review the report but that he expected that that review would be completed and the report released by Nov. 30. As of December 14, the OPR report has not been released.
Please email the Attorney General's office to ask him to release the OPR report. A model email can be found here:
Thank you,
Linda Gustitus, President
Rev. Richard L. Killmer, Executive Director
Please email Attorney General Holder today to ask him to release the Department of Justice Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR) report. The OPR report is believed to detail instances of professional misconduct by lawyers in the previous Administration's Office of Legal Counsel (OLC). Specifically, it is reported to demonstrate how lawyers in the OLC purposely misinterpreted the law in order to sanction torture and other abusive acts.
On Wednesday, Nov. 18th, Attorney General Holder told the Senate Judiciary Committee that a career prosecutor was going to review the report but that he expected that that review would be completed and the report released by Nov. 30. As of December 14, the OPR report has not been released.
Please email the Attorney General's office to ask him to release the OPR report. A model email can be found here:
Thank you,
Linda Gustitus, President
Rev. Richard L. Killmer, Executive Director
A Vigil for Health Care Reform: Thursday (17th) 11:45 am in Concord
From the NH District Office of New England Conference of the United Methodist Church
December 17 is a National Day of Action for Health Care Reform, which United Methodist Church strongly supports.
There will be an interfaith vigil in front of Senator Gregg's office in Concord, 125 North Main St. Concord.
All are invited.
December 17 is a National Day of Action for Health Care Reform, which United Methodist Church strongly supports.
There will be an interfaith vigil in front of Senator Gregg's office in Concord, 125 North Main St. Concord.
All are invited.
The Unblemished Lamb
Born to die, the lamb of God
born in a stable, a manger bed
humble servant, child of God
First born son, sacrifice
living as a man
Feet of clay, but heart for God
going where the master called
Tempted as we are
in the world, but set apart
following the plan of God
loving spirit within his heart
Going to the cross for me
hanging on the tree
Rising from the grave
in mighty victory
December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
born in a stable, a manger bed
humble servant, child of God
First born son, sacrifice
living as a man
Feet of clay, but heart for God
going where the master called
Tempted as we are
in the world, but set apart
following the plan of God
loving spirit within his heart
Going to the cross for me
hanging on the tree
Rising from the grave
in mighty victory
December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
The Coming of the Christ Child
Hard to put into words
the coming of the Christ child
an infant, our savior
nestled in a manger
Not noticed by the people
the prophecy fulfilled
the child from Jesse’s stem
the root of David, the king
Born to save us all
let us prepare, dance, and sing
For we are so unworthy
the gift of grace alone
God come down as man
to walk this lowly earth
a servant, whipped and mocked
hung on a cross to die
Saving us by taking our sin
coming to earth for this
rising on the third day
oh what utter bliss
Seated at the right side of God
the father and the son
the holy spirit within us
until our time here is done
Rising on wings like eagles
running without growing faint
spreading the good news of Christ
Our loving savior lives!
December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
the coming of the Christ child
an infant, our savior
nestled in a manger
Not noticed by the people
the prophecy fulfilled
the child from Jesse’s stem
the root of David, the king
Born to save us all
let us prepare, dance, and sing
For we are so unworthy
the gift of grace alone
God come down as man
to walk this lowly earth
a servant, whipped and mocked
hung on a cross to die
Saving us by taking our sin
coming to earth for this
rising on the third day
oh what utter bliss
Seated at the right side of God
the father and the son
the holy spirit within us
until our time here is done
Rising on wings like eagles
running without growing faint
spreading the good news of Christ
Our loving savior lives!
December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
An Announcing Angel
In the season of waiting
to be an announcing angel
a voice crying out in the wilderness
trumpets resounding with joy
singing a song of the Good News
Christ has come here to earth
every disciple,
all around the world
in our time and place
sharing the good news
the coming of the Christ
December 14, 2009 and December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
to be an announcing angel
a voice crying out in the wilderness
trumpets resounding with joy
singing a song of the Good News
Christ has come here to earth
every disciple,
all around the world
in our time and place
sharing the good news
the coming of the Christ
December 14, 2009 and December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
Our Savior was Born
In that little town, Bethlehem
as the shepherds watched by night
the angels sang their heavenly song
on earth, delight
Our savior, our king was born
So we, the messengers now
to the ends of the earth to share
our voices raised in joy
Joining their unending song
Christ was born in Bethlehem
so we may live
more than these days
December 14, 2009 and December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
as the shepherds watched by night
the angels sang their heavenly song
on earth, delight
Our savior, our king was born
So we, the messengers now
to the ends of the earth to share
our voices raised in joy
Joining their unending song
Christ was born in Bethlehem
so we may live
more than these days
December 14, 2009 and December 15, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
The Joyful Message
The joyful message
ringing, singing
through the dark night
our savior born
on that day
heavenly delight
Placed in a manger
on a bed of hay
fulfilling scripture
saving us all
so we, like the angels
sing!
December 14, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
ringing, singing
through the dark night
our savior born
on that day
heavenly delight
Placed in a manger
on a bed of hay
fulfilling scripture
saving us all
so we, like the angels
sing!
December 14, 2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
December 13, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=13&year=2009
Romans 10:4-17
Luke 2:10-11
“The Best News”,
by Christine Kalmbach
Monday, December 14, 2009
Winter – haiku
Cold, intruding, snow
unwelcome presence, coming
all too soon, chill, deep
December 14, 2009
unwelcome presence, coming
all too soon, chill, deep
December 14, 2009
All Equal
In the story in Luke
all equal, in the coming of the Lord
none better, none left out
his ministry, his coming
to set all of us free
men and women
slave and free
all races and all creeds
he had come to save
The story, centered on the women
changing the focus
down to the little baby
December 14, 2009
Galatians 3:25-29
Luke 1:26-49
Luke 2:36-38
Acts 2:17-21
Worship Theme: The Inclusiveness of God
sermon, “The Advent Conspiracy: "Three Wise Women"”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 6, 2009
Second Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
all equal, in the coming of the Lord
none better, none left out
his ministry, his coming
to set all of us free
men and women
slave and free
all races and all creeds
he had come to save
The story, centered on the women
changing the focus
down to the little baby
December 14, 2009
Galatians 3:25-29
Luke 1:26-49
Luke 2:36-38
Acts 2:17-21
Worship Theme: The Inclusiveness of God
sermon, “The Advent Conspiracy: "Three Wise Women"”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 6, 2009
Second Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
The Wells of Salvation
Waiting to drink
to feel the quenching waters
living waters from the wells of salvation
such a day, waiting for the Lord
for his coming into the world
to save and to bring us home
December 14, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
to feel the quenching waters
living waters from the wells of salvation
such a day, waiting for the Lord
for his coming into the world
to save and to bring us home
December 14, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
Waiting in Sabbath
A change to our path
remembering we are not of this place
merely refugees, travelers
trying to find our way home
Waiting in Sabbath
reverently, expectantly
for the king, the babe
the savior on the cross
coming into the world again
in our consciousness
Yet God is here
living within our hearts
indwelling spirit
sharing our walk
all the days of our lives
waiting in sabbath
Share sabbath, rest
with our land,
with our neighbors,
with the world
December 14, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
&
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
Zephaniah 3:14-20,
for December 8, 2009;
“A Place”, by Roberta Porter,
for December 9, 2009;
Luke 3:7-18 (John the Baptist),
for December 10, 2009
remembering we are not of this place
merely refugees, travelers
trying to find our way home
Waiting in Sabbath
reverently, expectantly
for the king, the babe
the savior on the cross
coming into the world again
in our consciousness
Yet God is here
living within our hearts
indwelling spirit
sharing our walk
all the days of our lives
waiting in sabbath
Share sabbath, rest
with our land,
with our neighbors,
with the world
December 14, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
&
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
Zephaniah 3:14-20,
for December 8, 2009;
“A Place”, by Roberta Porter,
for December 9, 2009;
Luke 3:7-18 (John the Baptist),
for December 10, 2009
Made of Heaven
While made of the earth
our bodies of simple clay
made of heaven
the spirit, live from away
part of God,
a seed planted
within our hearts
the stuff of heaven
with us along the way
leading us on our walk
steering us when we relent
turn our lives over to the Lord
following the master’s call
listening the voice, stirring inside of us
going when we are called, a path, a plan
bringing us home
December 13, 2009 and December 14, 2009
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
Zephaniah 3:14-20,
for December 8, 2009;
“A Place”, by Roberta Porter,
for December 9, 2009;
Luke 3:7-18 (John the Baptist),
for December 10, 2009
our bodies of simple clay
made of heaven
the spirit, live from away
part of God,
a seed planted
within our hearts
the stuff of heaven
with us along the way
leading us on our walk
steering us when we relent
turn our lives over to the Lord
following the master’s call
listening the voice, stirring inside of us
going when we are called, a path, a plan
bringing us home
December 13, 2009 and December 14, 2009
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
Zephaniah 3:14-20,
for December 8, 2009;
“A Place”, by Roberta Porter,
for December 9, 2009;
Luke 3:7-18 (John the Baptist),
for December 10, 2009
Made for Heaven
Made human,
our lives here on earth
while made for heaven
at the end of these days
refugees, foreigners
each of us on a journey
leading home
lessons to learn
making our way straight
walking ever closer to God
repenting and turning
from the ways of the world
leading us home to heaven
our brother preparing the way
December 13, 2009 and December 14, 2009
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
Zephaniah 3:14-20,
for December 8, 2009;
“A Place”, by Roberta Porter,
for December 9, 2009;
Luke 3:7-18 (John the Baptist),
for December 10, 2009
our lives here on earth
while made for heaven
at the end of these days
refugees, foreigners
each of us on a journey
leading home
lessons to learn
making our way straight
walking ever closer to God
repenting and turning
from the ways of the world
leading us home to heaven
our brother preparing the way
December 13, 2009 and December 14, 2009
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
Zephaniah 3:14-20,
for December 8, 2009;
“A Place”, by Roberta Porter,
for December 9, 2009;
Luke 3:7-18 (John the Baptist),
for December 10, 2009
The faith that I profess
Walking, living
the faith that I profess
acting as if I believe
the words that I hold dear
The loving father,
the son who came to save,
the indwelling spirit
guiding me now
Hope for eternal life
God’s wondrous saving grace
Trusting the creator
with all that I am
Trying to do the master’s will
all the days of my life
December 14, 2009
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
“Along the Way” by Sudha Khristmukti,
for December 11, 2009
the faith that I profess
acting as if I believe
the words that I hold dear
The loving father,
the son who came to save,
the indwelling spirit
guiding me now
Hope for eternal life
God’s wondrous saving grace
Trusting the creator
with all that I am
Trying to do the master’s will
all the days of my life
December 14, 2009
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 7, 2009 to December 13, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-7-13/
“Along the Way” by Sudha Khristmukti,
for December 11, 2009
Singing Boldly
We come singing
joy in our hearts
rejoicing at his birth
singing boldly
as Mary before us
offering ourselves
as servants of God
Waiting expectantly
for the coming
of the Christ-child
the love of God
coming down
into the world.
December 13, 2009 and December 14, 2009
Luke 1:46-49
and Third Advent Candle lighting
by Amy C. Wake
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
joy in our hearts
rejoicing at his birth
singing boldly
as Mary before us
offering ourselves
as servants of God
Waiting expectantly
for the coming
of the Christ-child
the love of God
coming down
into the world.
December 13, 2009 and December 14, 2009
Luke 1:46-49
and Third Advent Candle lighting
by Amy C. Wake
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 27,410+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Sermon - "And I Will Give You Rest”, by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, December 13, 2009, Suncook United Methodist Church, Suncook, NH
Pastor Ruth Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
December 13, 2009
Exodus 23:10-12 (New Century Bible)
Philippians 4: 4-7 (The Message Bible)
“And I Will Give You Rest”
The Lord be with you
And also with you
Let us pray…
Loving and Gracious God, we come today to gather in your name. We thank you for this day that you have given us. We thank you for this Advent Season that we celebrate the birth of you Son and our Savior, Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to be ever mindful of the reason for the season, the season of waiting with expectation. We ask that you would be with us, that we would hear the word that you have for us this day. Speak Lord…your children are listening…
Boy…I don’t know about you but I am so tired these days. With getting ready for Christmas and school and getting the house ready not to mention school and such) I am running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Is there no rest for the weary? I mean tis the season to be busy but I really need a break. We are told that if we are not busy we are lazy by the society we live in but I just can’t keep up. Is this all there is in life…busyness and being tired all the time?
In the scripture from Exodus this morning, it tells us that we are to take a day of rest…that we need this day to be refreshed and renewed. I don’t know about you…but I have a hard time doing that. With all the things that need to be done in life it is hard to have that day of rest. I even feel guilty sometimes if I am not doing something. What was God thinking when He said this? If I am not busy with family and friends I am busy with ministry. So how can this be? Besides, what am I supposed to be doing on those “days off” anyway?
We have been preaching a sermon series these past few weeks about the Advent Conspiracy…about how what society says about the Advent Season is not exactly what God would be thinking. Society is so busy during this Christmas time with all its sales and bargains that some have forgotten the real reason for the season. But one of the real reasons for the season is found in Philippians Chapter 4 verses 4-7. It is a piece of scripture that I pray that I can really take to heart…a piece of scripture that I think can help us all as we go through this season of Advent and not just this season but life in general. It reads (and I’m reading from the Message Bible):
Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you're on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute! Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.
It is wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life! There are other versions of the bible that state it in a way that I find most comforting. They read, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”, that peace…that feeling of contentment…I think that is something that we all need and look for in life.
But not only do we need rest…but we should be giving our land and others rest. Remember in the Exodus passage it talks about rest? Well…it also tells us to give our land and foreigners among us rest as well. But unfortunately...not only do we not give ourselves rest…we also don’t give that what is around us rest. It’s a no wonder that we are experiencing climate change…the world around us is crying out for rest. We sometimes forget that we are all related in some way. God created all that we see as well as humankind. We are all created by the same Creator and that Artisan that created everything meant for all to have rest not just the creation that He put here to tend and care for it. What we do really does affect all that is around us.
The General Conference of the United Methodist Church in 2004, called for the Council of Bishops to publish some new documents about the destruction of creation. In a Pastoral letter from November 3, 2009…they address this very issue. They state that God’s creation is in crisis…they see God’s people and planet suffering and they couldn’t just remain quiet about it. In the letter they talk about how peoples neglect, selfishness and pride have caused:
1. Pandemic poverty and disease
2. Environmental degradation
And
3. The proliferation of weapons and violence
It is all connected…that cause and effect thing going on here. But even though these things are happening God’s creative work still continues, God still invites each of us to participate in the work of renewal. God still cares and wants us to get back to one of the basic reasons while we are here…to tend the garden.
One of the statements in this letter that really made me stop and think about my own life is “We cannot help the world until we change our own way of being in it.” We need a renewing of our mind about the world around us and our consecutiveness within it…we need to begin to see our own part in the destruction of the Garden in which we live. One way to begin is to take that day of rest…to spend time as “creation with Creator”…to be celebrating God and God’s gift to us not just on that day of communing with the Creator but every day that has been gifted to us…by helping others to see the natural order that God has put forth…to spend time in prayer for all that we survey.
We have a choice here…we can either remain silent or we can get back to the basics of why we are here and to help others to see that which God has created is good and needs to be cherished above all else that is here on this planet which we call earth. We can teach the world to sing a new song instead of singing the broken record in which it seems to be stuck on. A song of love…a song of rest…a song of peace and hope. I don’t know about you but I would “Like to teach the world to sing, in perfect harmony.”
AMEN
Suncook United Methodist Church
December 13, 2009
Exodus 23:10-12 (New Century Bible)
Philippians 4: 4-7 (The Message Bible)
“And I Will Give You Rest”
The Lord be with you
And also with you
Let us pray…
Loving and Gracious God, we come today to gather in your name. We thank you for this day that you have given us. We thank you for this Advent Season that we celebrate the birth of you Son and our Savior, Lord Jesus Christ. Help us to be ever mindful of the reason for the season, the season of waiting with expectation. We ask that you would be with us, that we would hear the word that you have for us this day. Speak Lord…your children are listening…
Boy…I don’t know about you but I am so tired these days. With getting ready for Christmas and school and getting the house ready not to mention school and such) I am running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Is there no rest for the weary? I mean tis the season to be busy but I really need a break. We are told that if we are not busy we are lazy by the society we live in but I just can’t keep up. Is this all there is in life…busyness and being tired all the time?
In the scripture from Exodus this morning, it tells us that we are to take a day of rest…that we need this day to be refreshed and renewed. I don’t know about you…but I have a hard time doing that. With all the things that need to be done in life it is hard to have that day of rest. I even feel guilty sometimes if I am not doing something. What was God thinking when He said this? If I am not busy with family and friends I am busy with ministry. So how can this be? Besides, what am I supposed to be doing on those “days off” anyway?
We have been preaching a sermon series these past few weeks about the Advent Conspiracy…about how what society says about the Advent Season is not exactly what God would be thinking. Society is so busy during this Christmas time with all its sales and bargains that some have forgotten the real reason for the season. But one of the real reasons for the season is found in Philippians Chapter 4 verses 4-7. It is a piece of scripture that I pray that I can really take to heart…a piece of scripture that I think can help us all as we go through this season of Advent and not just this season but life in general. It reads (and I’m reading from the Message Bible):
Celebrate God all day, every day. I mean, revel in him! Make it as clear as you can to all you meet that you're on their side, working with them and not against them. Help them see that the Master is about to arrive. He could show up any minute! Don't fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God's wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It's wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.
It is wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life! There are other versions of the bible that state it in a way that I find most comforting. They read, “And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”, that peace…that feeling of contentment…I think that is something that we all need and look for in life.
But not only do we need rest…but we should be giving our land and others rest. Remember in the Exodus passage it talks about rest? Well…it also tells us to give our land and foreigners among us rest as well. But unfortunately...not only do we not give ourselves rest…we also don’t give that what is around us rest. It’s a no wonder that we are experiencing climate change…the world around us is crying out for rest. We sometimes forget that we are all related in some way. God created all that we see as well as humankind. We are all created by the same Creator and that Artisan that created everything meant for all to have rest not just the creation that He put here to tend and care for it. What we do really does affect all that is around us.
The General Conference of the United Methodist Church in 2004, called for the Council of Bishops to publish some new documents about the destruction of creation. In a Pastoral letter from November 3, 2009…they address this very issue. They state that God’s creation is in crisis…they see God’s people and planet suffering and they couldn’t just remain quiet about it. In the letter they talk about how peoples neglect, selfishness and pride have caused:
1. Pandemic poverty and disease
2. Environmental degradation
And
3. The proliferation of weapons and violence
It is all connected…that cause and effect thing going on here. But even though these things are happening God’s creative work still continues, God still invites each of us to participate in the work of renewal. God still cares and wants us to get back to one of the basic reasons while we are here…to tend the garden.
One of the statements in this letter that really made me stop and think about my own life is “We cannot help the world until we change our own way of being in it.” We need a renewing of our mind about the world around us and our consecutiveness within it…we need to begin to see our own part in the destruction of the Garden in which we live. One way to begin is to take that day of rest…to spend time as “creation with Creator”…to be celebrating God and God’s gift to us not just on that day of communing with the Creator but every day that has been gifted to us…by helping others to see the natural order that God has put forth…to spend time in prayer for all that we survey.
We have a choice here…we can either remain silent or we can get back to the basics of why we are here and to help others to see that which God has created is good and needs to be cherished above all else that is here on this planet which we call earth. We can teach the world to sing a new song instead of singing the broken record in which it seems to be stuck on. A song of love…a song of rest…a song of peace and hope. I don’t know about you but I would “Like to teach the world to sing, in perfect harmony.”
AMEN
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 36,860+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
A love song to the earth
In the story of creation
if we truly listen
if we see the world
all that is in it
with our ears as well as our eyes
We are missing,
a love song to the earth
the creator created balance
of work, and toil, and rest
Take the time to listen
to pick up the melody for your life
join the chorus, the ones
singing with the creator
a love song to the earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
if we truly listen
if we see the world
all that is in it
with our ears as well as our eyes
We are missing,
a love song to the earth
the creator created balance
of work, and toil, and rest
Take the time to listen
to pick up the melody for your life
join the chorus, the ones
singing with the creator
a love song to the earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Sabbath in all our days
A sense of sabbath in all of our days
remembering the gift of the creator’s hands
all of the world part of the master’s plan
given to us to care for and share
The world, the garden made by God
a place for our walk, on the earth
given to cherish, to nurture, to leave
to those who follow us in turn
part of the plan, rest and renewal
handing the world down through the ages
our care, servants of the Lord
a balance of work and rest
commanded by the creator
the cycles of life,
from beginning to end
sabbath in all our days
in connection with God and the land
our brothers, our neighbors, the whole world
all part of the creator’s master plan
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
remembering the gift of the creator’s hands
all of the world part of the master’s plan
given to us to care for and share
The world, the garden made by God
a place for our walk, on the earth
given to cherish, to nurture, to leave
to those who follow us in turn
part of the plan, rest and renewal
handing the world down through the ages
our care, servants of the Lord
a balance of work and rest
commanded by the creator
the cycles of life,
from beginning to end
sabbath in all our days
in connection with God and the land
our brothers, our neighbors, the whole world
all part of the creator’s master plan
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Sabbath in our daily lives
If only we could find a way
to enjoy sabbath in our daily lives
how our walk would be different
as we travel this fragile earth
caring for our neighbors
the ones around the world
the land, the sea, the skies
all of creation’s worth
If we stopped and rested
remembering the creator’s design
we to be stewards
to preserve what is left behind
Not consumers, to rape,
pillage, and war
loving the strangers
all who came before
Striving to care for the world
for all who follow our time
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
to enjoy sabbath in our daily lives
how our walk would be different
as we travel this fragile earth
caring for our neighbors
the ones around the world
the land, the sea, the skies
all of creation’s worth
If we stopped and rested
remembering the creator’s design
we to be stewards
to preserve what is left behind
Not consumers, to rape,
pillage, and war
loving the strangers
all who came before
Striving to care for the world
for all who follow our time
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Cherishing Creation
From the beginning
when we walked
in the garden with God
we were called to cherish creation
mindful of our place in his plan
Stewards, not consumers, in his design
to care, to nurture the earth
instructed to give land time to rest
just as we need sabbath rest
remembering we are servants
masters under the eye of God
given the earth in dominion
while we walk as man
Needing to remember
to linger, to see the world as God
the wonder of creation
to treasure, to cherish
to leave better behind
when our days are done
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
when we walked
in the garden with God
we were called to cherish creation
mindful of our place in his plan
Stewards, not consumers, in his design
to care, to nurture the earth
instructed to give land time to rest
just as we need sabbath rest
remembering we are servants
masters under the eye of God
given the earth in dominion
while we walk as man
Needing to remember
to linger, to see the world as God
the wonder of creation
to treasure, to cherish
to leave better behind
when our days are done
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Changing how we live in the world
In the climate crisis
just one of the problems on earth
a call to change how we live
how we treat our planet, our world
part of the Advent season
this waiting time of the year
mindful of the love of the creator
the grace of God
sending a son to save us
even when we sinned
our God, our savior
calling us to follow his will
from the beginning, as servants
called to be stewards of the earth
to give comfort to our neighbors
to love the planet, this earth
now in this season
to think beyond ourselves
to remember the creator,
the savior, our fellow man as well
changing how we live in the world
one person at a time
walking more humbly
in the world
leaving more behind
when we are gone
as stewards should
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
just one of the problems on earth
a call to change how we live
how we treat our planet, our world
part of the Advent season
this waiting time of the year
mindful of the love of the creator
the grace of God
sending a son to save us
even when we sinned
our God, our savior
calling us to follow his will
from the beginning, as servants
called to be stewards of the earth
to give comfort to our neighbors
to love the planet, this earth
now in this season
to think beyond ourselves
to remember the creator,
the savior, our fellow man as well
changing how we live in the world
one person at a time
walking more humbly
in the world
leaving more behind
when we are gone
as stewards should
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Renewing the Earth
Remembering creation
the creator and his care
renewing the earth
part of his loving plan
that we as stewards
would cherish the world
not use up its resources
rest for the planet as well
a sense of sabbath
renewing the earth
as he has commanded
taking care to rest
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
the creator and his care
renewing the earth
part of his loving plan
that we as stewards
would cherish the world
not use up its resources
rest for the planet as well
a sense of sabbath
renewing the earth
as he has commanded
taking care to rest
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Our Failed Stewardship
Our failed stewardship
blight upon the earth
scars on the land
pollution in the air, the water
climate on the brink
No time for rest
we claim sovereignty over all
forgetting we servants, stewards
gardeners of the master
the one who created all
We were to tend the land
to nurture one another
to cherish the gift of creation
and remember the creator
Taking our sabbath, our rest
for the people and the land
all to be cared for
leaving the rest to God
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
blight upon the earth
scars on the land
pollution in the air, the water
climate on the brink
No time for rest
we claim sovereignty over all
forgetting we servants, stewards
gardeners of the master
the one who created all
We were to tend the land
to nurture one another
to cherish the gift of creation
and remember the creator
Taking our sabbath, our rest
for the people and the land
all to be cared for
leaving the rest to God
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
The Destruction of Creation
The destruction of creation
when we claim to be God
forgetting we are stewards
called to watch over the earth
to rest, to all to go fallow
the earth from time to time
to care for creation
by following God,
the master’s commands
We must remember
our charge to nurture
to tend the garden, the earth
to take sabbath, rest for ourselves
our animals, the whole world
The creator watching over us
how he must be crying now
as his people warm the planet
and fight around the globe
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
when we claim to be God
forgetting we are stewards
called to watch over the earth
to rest, to all to go fallow
the earth from time to time
to care for creation
by following God,
the master’s commands
We must remember
our charge to nurture
to tend the garden, the earth
to take sabbath, rest for ourselves
our animals, the whole world
The creator watching over us
how he must be crying now
as his people warm the planet
and fight around the globe
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
The Crisis of Our Control
By failing to heed the commandments
the laws of the Lord
our planet crying out
the crisis of our control
Thinking we can do
anything we choose
consequences to our actions
all around the earth
Stewards only of the world
dominion does not mean overuse
leaving nothing in our wake
only scars upon the land
Forgetting our place in creation
servants of the king
caring for the land in our time
while we walk upon the earth
Rest, for ourselves,
all peoples, all animals too
even rest for the land
as the master planned
commanded us to do
Now facing the costs
our arrogance revealed
the crisis of our control
when we set ourselves up as God
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,830+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the laws of the Lord
our planet crying out
the crisis of our control
Thinking we can do
anything we choose
consequences to our actions
all around the earth
Stewards only of the world
dominion does not mean overuse
leaving nothing in our wake
only scars upon the land
Forgetting our place in creation
servants of the king
caring for the land in our time
while we walk upon the earth
Rest, for ourselves,
all peoples, all animals too
even rest for the land
as the master planned
commanded us to do
Now facing the costs
our arrogance revealed
the crisis of our control
when we set ourselves up as God
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,830+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
That Artisan
Seeing the world
as the work of that artisan
God, the creator
bringing the world into existence
out of his mind and his loving hands
ours to watch over
dominion in our human hands
To tend and to care for
while we walk the earth
the garden, his creation
left behind
when we return
to dust once more
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,900+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
as the work of that artisan
God, the creator
bringing the world into existence
out of his mind and his loving hands
ours to watch over
dominion in our human hands
To tend and to care for
while we walk the earth
the garden, his creation
left behind
when we return
to dust once more
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,900+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
The Earth Crying Out for Rest
All part of God’s plan
the sabbath, rest for his people
rest for the land, all of creation
The earth crying out,
for us to heed God’s command
the earth crying out for rest
that we would understand
the design of the creator
from the beginning of time
a balance of use and going fallow
that we would hear his plan
caring for the earth, as stewards
and giving it rest from our toils
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
the sabbath, rest for his people
rest for the land, all of creation
The earth crying out,
for us to heed God’s command
the earth crying out for rest
that we would understand
the design of the creator
from the beginning of time
a balance of use and going fallow
that we would hear his plan
caring for the earth, as stewards
and giving it rest from our toils
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
To care for the garden
To care for the garden
the world that we share
such was our charge from the Lord
dominion over the world
for our time on the earth
the planet in our loving care
Forgetting the wisdom
the plan of the creator
written in the commands of old
resting from our toils
both men and beasts
even the land to go fallow
Now, in our arrogance
the world on the brink
climate, war,
struggle out of control
a need to return
to the plan of the Lord
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
the world that we share
such was our charge from the Lord
dominion over the world
for our time on the earth
the planet in our loving care
Forgetting the wisdom
the plan of the creator
written in the commands of old
resting from our toils
both men and beasts
even the land to go fallow
Now, in our arrogance
the world on the brink
climate, war,
struggle out of control
a need to return
to the plan of the Lord
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Rest for the Land
Within the commandments
the call from God to rest
an understanding more than man
rest for the land as well
our animals, our servants
the land all needing to rest
our duty as stewards
to follow the master’s will
To care for the land and the people
the animals and plants as well
all of creation is waiting
for us to follow his call
to treat the planet with care
in keeping with our charge
masters over creation
not as creators, gardeners
only for our time on the earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
the call from God to rest
an understanding more than man
rest for the land as well
our animals, our servants
the land all needing to rest
our duty as stewards
to follow the master’s will
To care for the land and the people
the animals and plants as well
all of creation is waiting
for us to follow his call
to treat the planet with care
in keeping with our charge
masters over creation
not as creators, gardeners
only for our time on the earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Tending His Garden
Remembering his scripture
his commandments written down
our place in the world
where we as humans stand
below the creator
in his image though we may be
stewards, servants only
tending his garden while we are here
control over the world
dominion over the earth
but we must follow the commands
to rest and remember God
the source of all that is
our daily bread he does provide
we are only on the earth for a time
our days only he knows the number
we are to be faithful and kind
watching out for our neighbor
giving rest to ourselves and the earth
caring for the garden
while we walk here on the earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
his commandments written down
our place in the world
where we as humans stand
below the creator
in his image though we may be
stewards, servants only
tending his garden while we are here
control over the world
dominion over the earth
but we must follow the commands
to rest and remember God
the source of all that is
our daily bread he does provide
we are only on the earth for a time
our days only he knows the number
we are to be faithful and kind
watching out for our neighbor
giving rest to ourselves and the earth
caring for the garden
while we walk here on the earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Caring for the Garden
Caring for the Garden
not the wanton interests of man
following the commands of the father
doing what we can
to care for the garden
the whole of the world
leaving a smaller footprint
walking gently on the earth
tending the garden
in our time and around the globe
seeking justice for our neighbor
and rest for our tired earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
not the wanton interests of man
following the commands of the father
doing what we can
to care for the garden
the whole of the world
leaving a smaller footprint
walking gently on the earth
tending the garden
in our time and around the globe
seeking justice for our neighbor
and rest for our tired earth
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Masters over the Garden
We were created, mankind
in the image of God
given dominion over the earth
masters over the garden
created by God
Ours to tend and nurture
to care and to keep
not to abuse and to ravage
with no sense of what is to come
stewards, servants only
under the watchful eye of God
consequences for our actions
seen in the changes in the world
Rest he commanded, sabbath
for people and the land
to recover and to renew
to remember the place of man
God created, all we see and know
the earth and all that is in it
in six days, as the story goes
we are here, a brief candle
so our lives are set to be
to walk humbly as stewards
to leave a better world behind
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,820+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
in the image of God
given dominion over the earth
masters over the garden
created by God
Ours to tend and nurture
to care and to keep
not to abuse and to ravage
with no sense of what is to come
stewards, servants only
under the watchful eye of God
consequences for our actions
seen in the changes in the world
Rest he commanded, sabbath
for people and the land
to recover and to renew
to remember the place of man
God created, all we see and know
the earth and all that is in it
in six days, as the story goes
we are here, a brief candle
so our lives are set to be
to walk humbly as stewards
to leave a better world behind
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,820+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Servants in His Garden
The world of His creation
we are the servants in His garden
to care for the land
as he has commanded
to rest and to remember
God created it all
put into our hands
to nurture and to care
over the world he created
for us to use and to cherish
to preserve and to watch over
each generation in its turn
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
we are the servants in His garden
to care for the land
as he has commanded
to rest and to remember
God created it all
put into our hands
to nurture and to care
over the world he created
for us to use and to cherish
to preserve and to watch over
each generation in its turn
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Stewards in the Garden
Our care is our call from the Lord
the creator of all there is
calling us to watch over the land
the animals, the foreigners
all who come in our midst
to worship God alone
and not set ourselves up as king
to nurture and watch over the earth
to walk humbly before our God
to take time to rest
and care for each other
as we know we should
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
the creator of all there is
calling us to watch over the land
the animals, the foreigners
all who come in our midst
to worship God alone
and not set ourselves up as king
to nurture and watch over the earth
to walk humbly before our God
to take time to rest
and care for each other
as we know we should
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
Accepting God’s Love
A free gift
a choice to make
rejecting of accepting God’s love
the stain of sin washed away
salvation ours for the taking
freely given by Christ’s sacrifice
ours when we accept Love
into our hearts
December 13, 2009
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 346, “God is Love”
read 12/13/09
&
Romans 5:8
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 344, “His Generosity and Yours”
read 12/13/09
a choice to make
rejecting of accepting God’s love
the stain of sin washed away
salvation ours for the taking
freely given by Christ’s sacrifice
ours when we accept Love
into our hearts
December 13, 2009
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 346, “God is Love”
read 12/13/09
&
Romans 5:8
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 344, “His Generosity and Yours”
read 12/13/09
Love Reborn
The cross, the grave
could not hold love
Love reborn on the third day
walking again on this earth
our lives at that moment
saved!
December 13, 2009
Romans 5:8
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 344, “His Generosity and Yours”
read 12/13/09
could not hold love
Love reborn on the third day
walking again on this earth
our lives at that moment
saved!
December 13, 2009
Romans 5:8
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 344, “His Generosity and Yours”
read 12/13/09
Love Dying for Us
God is love,
so the scripture attests
all of God, triune
God showed love
sending a son
mortal yet divine
Love walking the ways of earth
a life like yours and mine
Love dying, on the cross
a sacrifice for you and me
unimaginable love
while we are yet in sin
December 13, 2009
Romans 5:8
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 344, “His Generosity and Yours”
read 12/13/09
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 19,900+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
so the scripture attests
all of God, triune
God showed love
sending a son
mortal yet divine
Love walking the ways of earth
a life like yours and mine
Love dying, on the cross
a sacrifice for you and me
unimaginable love
while we are yet in sin
December 13, 2009
Romans 5:8
1 John 4:8 and
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 344, “His Generosity and Yours”
read 12/13/09
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 19,900+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
A Sabbath for the Earth
Under the words of the commandments
a sabbath day of rest
stopping to commune with our creator
to worship God with our neighbors
to remember his holiness
A Sabbath for the earth
to rest from our toils, demands
to recover from the excesses of man
renewing on that day, as the creator planned
a cycle of life in his command
A balance of work and rest
peace in trusting in the creator
our part in the heavenly plan
we and all of creation
held in his loving hands
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
and sermon – “All You Need Is Love. . . ”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,810+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
a sabbath day of rest
stopping to commune with our creator
to worship God with our neighbors
to remember his holiness
A Sabbath for the earth
to rest from our toils, demands
to recover from the excesses of man
renewing on that day, as the creator planned
a cycle of life in his command
A balance of work and rest
peace in trusting in the creator
our part in the heavenly plan
we and all of creation
held in his loving hands
December 13, 2009
Philippians 4:4-7
Exodus 23:10-12
Isaiah 12:2-6 (Call to Worship)
Psalm 150, United Methodist Hymnal #862 (Responsive Prayer)
Genesis 1:26-30
Worship Theme: “Advent Conspiracy: Thou Shalt Rest”
sermon, “And I Will Give You Rest”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
and sermon – “All You Need Is Love. . . ”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
December 13, 2009
Third Sunday of Advent
part of a series of sermons,
using the Advent Conspiracy
http://www.adventconspiracy.org/
&
Pastoral Letter of the Council of Bishops of The United Methodist Church
“God’s Renewed Creation: Call to Hope and Action”, at:
http://www.umc.org/atf/cf/%7BDB6A45E4-C446-4248-82C8-E131B6424741%7D/GRC_Pastoral%20Ltr.pdf
& more worship resources at:
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=48267
&
Bill McKibben,
http://www.billmckibben.com/
December 10, 2009
“The Moral Math of Climate Change”
http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/
Speaking of Faith
&
http://www.350.org/
350.org
&
http://en.cop15.dk/
15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15)
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 19,810+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
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