Poetry Where You Live: 12/27/2009

Thursday, January 07, 2010

True Darkness

No lights at all
no electricity, no flames
no stars in the sky
true darkness

Christ coming into world
just as at creation
Light piercing the darkness
the world made new

January 7, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12
Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
Pastor’s Message
by Rev. Huntley Halvorson
Christmas Eve December 24, 2009, 11:00pm service
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
reprised, worship service after
Our Family’s Table
January 6, 2010
Epiphany Day
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
&
bulletin for worship
January 10, 2010,
which uses Genesis 1.1-2.4
and Psalm 19:1-6
sermon “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH

The Light, the Word

The light, the word
a new creation
just as at the beginning
the light from above
God in his creation
parting the waters
piercing the darkness
with his holy light
Christ, the word
the love of God
entering the world
to reclaim all below
Light from the darkness
guiding our way
as at the beginning
the new day

January 7, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12
Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
Pastor’s Message
by Rev. Huntley Halvorson
Christmas Eve December 24, 2009, 11:00pm service
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
&
reprised, worship service after
Our Family’s Table
January 6, 2010
Epiphany Day
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
&
bulletin for worship
January 10, 2010,
which uses Genesis 1.1-2.4
and Psalm 19:1-6
sermon “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH

Following the Light

To be like the Magi,
the wise men of Matthew
following the light
to find its source
the Christ, the babe
born king of the Jews

Seeking him in the manger
in his lowly bed
the way of his ministry
the path of the cross
The joy of his resurrection
saving the world

The love, the grace of God
into the world, walking as a man
to set us free from our sin
Going, like the disciples
my nets at the shore
spreading his message
to the ends of the earth

January 7, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12
Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
Pastor’s Message
by Rev. Huntley Halvorson
Christmas Eve December 24, 2009, 11:00pm service
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
reprised, worship service after
Our Family’s Table
January 6, 2010
Epiphany Day
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH

A light Guiding Me

Through the darkness
the sin of this world
a light guiding me
burning within

The Christ, my savior
God, Emmanuel
guiding my walk
his spirit within

Leading me out
into the world
teaching me to believe
the calling within

Going in faith
out onto the waters
whatever the winds
giving me peace within

January 7, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12
Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
Pastor’s Message
by Rev. Huntley Halvorson
Christmas Eve December 24, 2009, 11:00pm service
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
reprised, worship service after
Our Family’s Table
January 6, 2010
Epiphany Day
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH

A Clear Point of Light

Christ, the star of Bethlehem
the light come into the world
just as his star guided the Magi
so he guides us now
Beside us, even when
we are not ready
there when
we call out to him
Our star, our compass
the focus and passion
light guiding us through
the darkness, the long night
Leading us to places
we do not know

January 7, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12
Isaiah 9:2, 6-7
Pastor’s Message
by Rev. Huntley Halvorson
Christmas Eve December 24, 2009, 11:00pm service
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
reprised, worship service after
Our Family’s Table
January 6, 2010
Epiphany Day
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH

Wednesday, January 06, 2010

New and Exciting Places

Led by the spirit
listening to the voice within
new and exciting places
in service to the Lord

Finding our savior, our brother
out in the world
our journey, our faith
taking us on our way

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Falling to Our Knees

Falling to our knees
venerating our king
like the Magi
bringing our offering
Presenting our gifts
laid before our king
our hearts, our lives
offered to the lord
Our days, our path
left upon his altar
Guided by his love
by his spirit dwelling within
Our hearts changed forever
in epiphany of his grace
Love, Emmanuel
Christ walking close to me

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Overwhelmed by Joy

A prayer, a wish,
at the start of the year
that we would be overwhelmed
with joy, love,
the assurance of God
Like the Magi,
falling to our knees

Feeling, sensing,
the presence of the Lord
awareness of our place,
our part in his holy plan
Spreading the good news,
the grace of God for all
to the ends of the earth,
as we are all called to share

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

An Offering to You

Offering to you
the gifts of our lives
like the wise men
coming to your side
kneeling before you, Lord
our offering, our lives
given to your will

Help us to serve you
to care for our fellow man
to go where we are led
doing all we can
To spread the love of God
the good news to the earth
all of us worthy
through his gift, second birth

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Into the Unknown

Each of us
into the unknown
when we lay down our will
and follow the master
wherever he may call

Going out into the world
stepping out in faith
yoked with our master
doing the savior’s work

Entering into relationship
finding our gifts revealed
the plan of the creator of the earth
guiding our steps, our way
all of our days for your glory
this is our prayer

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Who We Are to Him

The journey of these bits of clay
the vessels of our days
seeking our place in the world
how we can serve and obey

Who we are to God
to our savior, our king
the journey of our lives
this, our offering

Longing to see the Christ
to enter in with him
to feel the touch of his hand
to sense his loving care

Understanding the price he paid
taking on my sin
trying to fathom the depth of his love
his grace reconciling me to him

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

who Christ is to us

A new year, opportunity
for epiphany, awareness
to overtake us
God pursuing us
all the days of our lives

That we would find anew
deeper, more meaningful
who Christ is to us
a personal, living savior
walking beside us
all the days of our lives

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

In New Ways

In the epiphanies of life
encountering our redeemer
hearing his still small voice
the path he has for us
changed for his glory
finding the Christ in new ways
if we step out in faith

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Encounter Our Redeemer

In the unexpected lands
the places we do not know
on the path, if we follow
Encountering our redeemer
on the way of the cross
the journey laid out for us

Plans for our future
our lives of abundance
yoked with our brother
leading us to heaven
home with our savior
his love in our hearts

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Step Out in Faith

The calling to each of us
in our own unique way
to step out in faith
every single day

The prayer we raise
before our feet of clay
that we would trust enough
to step out in faith
following you
wherever you may call

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Falling to Our Knees

Falling to our knees
venerating our king
at the stable bed
at the cross
at the altar of your church
Guide us Lord
to the place where you abide
that we may come to you
falling to our knees

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Gifts of Our Lives

More valuable, precious
than the gold, frankincense, the myrrh
carried by the Magi
offered for the king

Gifts of our lives
choosing to follow
like the fishermen
leaving our comfort
at the calling of the king

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Embark

In the testimony
the story of the wise men
and the fishermen on the shore
going when they are called
The stirrings of my heart
on this, Epiphany
leading me on
to embark
on a new road,
a new path for me

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

New Journeys

At epiphany, the Christ
come down to earth
meeting our brother
our savior, like them
on our knees

Offering for Christ
the gifts we have to share
the gift of our lives
all that we are his

New Journeys, out into the unknown
going under the star
guided by his light

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Take Risks

The price, the gifts
epiphany, to take risks
to believe enough
like Mary, Joseph
like the wise men
the apostles, the saints
stepping out in faith
Finding our savior
our God, our brother
in the walk of our life
Each of us under your star
your pillar of light
guiding us through this world
this darkness, this night

January 6, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Tuesday, January 05, 2010

To Share His Word

In epiphany, in journeying
coming to see my calling
how to use my gifts for God
To share his word
in the verses that I write

Stepping out, in faith
trusting the callings of my heart
cleaving to my master
doing the savior’s work

Sharing the message
love come down to earth
through our discipleship
given eternal birth

Guided by the spirit
led into the unknown
strengthened by the hand of Christ
marked by the nails, my sin

Going as I am called
writing the words I am given
putting pen to page
to share his loving word

January 5, 2010
Faithwriters Daily Devotional,
for January 5, 2010,
Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)
“Rethinking Your Ministry”
&
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday
&
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

In an Unusual Way

Needing to stay open
to the leadings,
the guidance of God

Our gifts to be used
in unusual ways

Not by the plans we make
by his will, for his purposes
when we turn over
our gifts to God

January 5, 2010
Faithwriters Daily Devotional,
for January 5, 2010,
Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)
“Rethinking Your Ministry”
&
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday
&
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

Keep Writing

More than the medium
the calling from God
to keep writing
to trust in him alone

The gift I have been given
to share his good news
in the words on the page, the screen
in the way he will choose

January 5, 2010
Faithwriters Daily Devotional,
for January 5, 2010,
Proverbs 3:5-6 (KJV)
“Rethinking Your Ministry”
&
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday
&
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

Rock us to our core

Rock us to our core
that we may truly live
epiphany of your love
pouring down on us

The Christ, the king
God come down as man
walking the way of the world
leading us home again

Showing the love of God
in the way he lived his life
calling us to leave the world
to go and follow him

Shout from the hilltops
speak from deep within
rock us from our cores
arise and follow him

January 5, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Inside Our Hearts

Speak to us Lord
from that place where you abide
calling us from inside our hearts
Guide us, by our faith
our into the unknown
Stepping out, to do your will
Following your light,
trusting in you
risking all,
in your holy name

January 5, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

In Their Gifts His Journey

Knowing the meaning of the star
the prophecy, the Messiah
the king come into the world
But, more words,
that which was foretold

Prophecy on the role, the life of Christ
before he was even born
words, long before, of his ministry
his death, for our sin

In their gifts his journey
the steps of his holy life
the gold, frankincense and myrrh
three faces of the Christ
king and priest and sacrifice
all of this foretold

January 4, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Venerating Our King

The attitude of prayer
humbly, falling to our knees
venerating our king
as we must too
Offering gifts worthy
ourselves, our lives
ever, for our king

January 4, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Monday, January 04, 2010

Because Christ Forgave Me

By his example, we may do the same
forgiving others
because Christ forgave me
his expression, “forgive them,
for they know not what they do”,
a prayer for all of us
not just those at the base of the cross
His love, even in death
a way to grace
in complete humbleness

January 2, 2010
Colossians 3:12-17
Ecclesiastes 3:13
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=31&year=2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for December 31, 2009
(read January 2, 2010)
“The Daily Gift”,
by Brenda E. Shreve

Changing the Labels

Changing the labels
how I see myself
a new creation, a new thing
turning toward Christ
dropping the old
holding onto the new
stepping out in faith
what I have to do

January 2, 2010
Isaiah 43:14-21
Isaiah 43:18-19 (NRSV)
Romans 5:5
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=12&day=30&year=2009
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for December 30, 2009
(read January 2, 2010)
“A New Identity”,
by Patricia Mohney

Falling to My Knees

Epiphany, awareness
Falling to my knees,
at the manger, at his bed,
the cross, the altar
in front of the Christ

Offering the gifts I have
offering gifts worthy
my savior, my king
in humble submission
offering myself
Falling to my knees
before the Christ

January 3, 2010
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for January and February 2010
Cover Art Interpretation,
“Wise Men from the East”,
painting by Agha Behzad,
interpretation by Mona Bagasao-Cave
&
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Epiphany at the Cross

The Centurion, standing guard
symbol of the execution,
the empire in their midst
the stranger, gentile
at his post
at the foot of the cross

Realization, epiphany
naming the Christ
the man dying before him
the Son of God
awareness at the moment of death
the enormity of what we had done

January 3, 2010
Mark 15:33-41
Mark 15:39
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=1&day=3&year=2010
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for January 3, 2010
“Unexpected Conversion”,
by Joanna Ronalds
&
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

A Newborn Baby

A newborn baby, the king of the Jews
fulfilling the prophecy
the promise of God
The Messiah in Bethlehem
from the root of David
the shoot of Jesse
a king come to life.

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

The Meaning of His Life

In the gifts of the Magi
the foreigners from afar
his nature, the story
of his life, all of the meaning
in their offerings to him

His kingship, priesthood
his suffering and sacrifice
all of these revealed
in the gifts they bestowed
to the babe, the Christ
at his humble bed, behold

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

On Hearing His Name

The reaction, the realization
the response of Herod
on hearing his name

The question of the Magi
terror in the hearts of the powerful
the true king come into the world

Fawning piety, urging
an awful scheme unfolding
Herod planning to murder the Lord

Love come down,
the Messiah now living
the world yearning
waiting to be set aright.

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Before They Left the East

Epiphany first, in seeing the star
knowing in that moment
the prophecy fulfilled
The journey, the travel
in reverence, to pay homage
a pilgrimage to his bed
to see the living proof

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Journey of Epiphany

Epiphany, the realization
seeing the star
as had been foretold
The light coming,
into this darkness
Hope come down
in the form of a child
The journey to Jerusalem,
on to Bethlehem
bringing the epiphany
alive before their eyes

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Epiphanies

A sudden comprehension
that moment of realization
understanding, awareness
changing our lives
Seeing the meaning
in the signs around us
courage to follow
where our hearts would lead
Such is the challenge
within the story
the journey of the wise men
and the response of Jerusalem
Both saw the star
understanding its meaning
the prophecy of old
the Messiah come to life
Hope for those who seek him
fear for those in power
Christ come into the world
to offer true life
to set the world aright.

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

A New Revelation of Christ

A prayer on Epiphany
the dawning of the decade
a new revelation of Christ
as we walk each day

Seeking to follow
the path of the Messiah
the plan of God
all along our way

Awareness, comprehension
the callings of God
how to use our gifts, our lives
in the service of God

New eyes, new sight
the world always new
the teachings of Christ
in all we say and do

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

A New Decade

Mindful, thinking
the advent of the decade
more than just
the turning of the year

Taking stock, silently thinking
that which had gone before
and what is yet to come

Praying, listening
for the guiding of the Spirit
what we should do
to be servants for the king

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Herod Knew

Somehow, the words of the Magi
asking where to find
the child, the king of the Jews
Herod knew, aware of the threat
the child they sought
the Messiah, the true king
to reclaim David’s throne
the one he sat upon
Terrified, the hired hands with him
the house of cards
will soon fall from its foundation
the lie revealed, the emperor has no clothes

January 2, 2010 and January 4, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Closing a Door

Slowly, yet purposely
the Lord, closing one door
a path grown cold
that another way
may reveal itself

Taking a step in faith
the stirrings of my heart
Spirit calling, “follow me”
leading me
that other way

January 2, 2010
Alive Now Daily Devotions for December 28, 2009 to January 3, 2010
“Along the Way”,
by Sudha Khristmukti
for December 30, 2009
(read 1/2/2010)
for December 31, 2009
(read 1/2/2010)
&
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

A Journey Unknown

That step of faith
closing one door
opening another
a journey unknown
trusting in Christ
victory will come
in following the king

January 2, 2010
Alive Now Daily Devotions for December 28, 2009 to January 3, 2010
“Along the Way”,
by Sudha Khristmukti
for December 30, 2009
(read 1/2/2010)
for December 31, 2009
(read 1/2/2010)
&
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

Submitting My Will

Turning to God, to the calling within
changing my path
Submitting my will
to the urgings of my soul
All I am given over to you
Guide my steps, oh Lord
this is my humble prayer

January 2, 2010
Alive Now Daily Devotions for December 28, 2009 to January 3, 2010
“Along the Way”,
by Sudha Khristmukti
for December 30, 2009
(read 1/2/2010)
&
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

A Step of Trust

Allowing God’s will, his hand
to guide my life, my steps
a place for the spirit
indwelling, within my heart
giving myself, my all
over to the master’s plan
taking a step of trust
following my master’s call

January 2, 2010
Alive Now Daily Devotions for December 28, 2009 to January 3, 2010
“Along the Way”,
by Sudha Khristmukti
for December 30, 2009
(read 1/2/2010)
&
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

Trust and Believe

Drop your hesitation
shackles of doubt
trust and believe
Christ will make a way
a path through our troubles
strength for the journey
in his name we pray

January 1, 2010
Philippians 4:13 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for January 4, 2010 – What I Can’t Do”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

New Sight, New Eyes

New sight, new eyes
these we long for
in the changing of the decade
in the day of epiphany

To see the Christ
in the face of our neighbors
to fee his presence
right beside us on our way

The love of God
the speaking of the Spirit
stirring within our hearts
to step out in faith

Trusting our lives
our fortunes, our futures
being like the disciples
leaving our nets
and following the Christ

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday
&
Philippians 4:12 (NKJV)
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for November 16, 2009 – Ultimate Faith”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html

The Prophecy Coming to Life

In the new born baby,
the Messiah, the king
the prophecy of old
coming to life before their eyes

Christ, God, love
descended from heaven
entering the world
as a humble child

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Sunday, January 03, 2010

The Magi Discovered

Their journey, their quest
following his natal star
leading them to Jerusalem

The king, the theocracy
unaware, scared
frightened by their news

Meeting them secretly
the king, too coy
sending them on

The star appearing
joy in its light
leading them onward
guiding them to his bed

Kneeling in wonder
the king before them
offering him gifts
worthy of his name

Worshiping the child
the infant before them
the living fulfillment
the prophecy of old

Warned in a dream
the treachery of Herod
secretly going
another way home

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

In Secret

In secret, in darkness
the king, the powerful, plotted
seeking to hide, to extinguish
to blot out the light

Gathering, scheming
planning in secret
sending the Magi on
to find the Christ

Trying to deceive
to use the strangers
unwitting spies
to identify the child

In a dream, the plot illumined
going to their own land
led to another way

The same with the Christ-child
in a dream, a warning
the child moving in secret
the light saved for another day

January 2, 2010 and January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Matthew 2:13-15
Matthew 2:19-23
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Moments of Epiphany

In the story, the telling
the coming of the Christ
the coming of the Magi
More too, moments of epiphany
awareness, instant awakening
a realization, amazing things
all happening, as God had planned
as had been foretold

The quickening of life
John leaping inside of Elizabeth
while Christ was yet unborn
understanding the meaning
when Mary approached her kin

Zechariah speaking
in the naming of John
a prophecy of witness
preparing the way of the Lord

Herod, afraid, responding to the Magi
with a question, dripping with epiphany
knowing that the babe, the child born
the son, under the natal star
the Messiah, as had been foretold

Mary gathering in
all that was happening
so much more of the story
yet to unfold

The Magi themselves
epiphany, that moment
gifts for the Christ
gold, frankincense, and myrrh
his life all laid out

January 2, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Luke 1:46-55
Luke 1:57-80
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Through the Eyes of Epiphany

Life, richer, abundant
if we can walk, each day
seeing our world, our lives
through the eyes of epiphany
open to the wonders
the beauty and grace
God’s love revealed

Walking with our brother
our savior, the Christ
joy pouring down, living waters
seeing our lives, our neighbors
through the eyes of epiphany

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

The Richness of the Elements

Simple food, the bread the wine
more today
symbols, of the Passover
the birth, the Lord’s last supper
The giving, sharing
his body, his blood
broken, for each of us
Offered, willingly
love come to earth
offered on the cross
The richness of the elements
the love revealed
in the simple meal we share

January 3, 2010
Communion liturgy
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

New Life, New Challenges

Each year in Advent,
on Christmas, at Epiphany
the revelation of Christ
the babe come to earth
This new life, this child
with new challenges
for us, rocking us to our core

Do we remain comfortable
in our own little world
unchanged by the epiphany
the coming of the Lord

Or do we look anew
into the eyes of the Christ-child
see with eyes of the Magi
on our knees
offering our gifts, our very lives
for our now-risen savior, our king

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Change by Epiphany

Not by the day to day
more, we are changed by epiphany
moments of clarity, of awareness
truth revealed, plans made known
following our guiding star
led into the world
to fulfilling our calling
our destiny

January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible
Worship Theme: “A Sudden Awareness”
Unison Prayer – “Epiphany”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #255
and sermon, “I Should Have Had A V8”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 3, 2010
Epiphany of the Lord Sunday

Sermon - "I Should Have Had A V8", by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, Suncook United Methodist Church, Suncook, NH, January 3, 2010

Pastor Ruth Foss
January 3, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12 Message Bible
Isaiah 60:1-6 NIV Bible

“I Should Have Had A V8…”

A Reading from the book of Matthew…

Good morning…well, here we are at the beginning of a new year, a new decade…Happy New Year to you and yours. It seems like just yesterday we were celebrating Easter and now we are celebrating the Epiphany of the Lord Sunday…when the Magi came to worship the new born king. Where has the time gone?

The word “Epiphany” is a very interesting word to me…so much so that I decided to look up the definition. What does this word mean anyway? Well…to have an epiphany is to have a sudden realization or comprehension of the essence or meaning of something. This definition kind of reminds me of those old V8 commercials… you know what I’m talking about, the ones that the person has just discovered that what they were drinking had no real nutritional value and they could have had a V8 instead that would have given them nutritional value. That sudden realization that there was something more out there than what you are living with or doing.

These Magi…these Wise Men…they had their “epiphany”, their V8 moment before they ever came to visit the babe born in a manger. These Magi…these scholars of the stars…they knew who this child was that they waited for a long time to come into the world. They knew the path that He would travel. Look at the gifts that they presented this new born king.

 Gold →The meaning of this gift represents Kingship on earth. They knew that Jesus was a king. But not just any king…He was the King of King’s and Lord of Lord’s.
 Frankincense →This incense that they offered represented priest ship…priesthood. They knew that Jesus was the High Priest. They knew that He was the one who would lead…would be king of…the Jews.
 Myrrh →This was an anointing oil…an embalming oil and was the symbol of death.

All three gifts were ordinary offerings and gifts to a king. These gifts are also sometimes described more generally as gold symbolizing virtue, frankincense symbolizing prayer and myrrh symbolizing suffering.

These Magi “fell to their knees” when they entered the house where Jesus was. This falling to the knees represented great respect and was typically used when venerating a king. These Magi had it right…they knew who and what Jesus really was. They knew that this infant born in Bethlehem was the true king that would bring justice to the poor and save the lives of the needy.

But in this story of the Magi, there is another epiphany, so to speak… the epiphany of King Herod himself. Remember what happened when Herod heard of the Magi coming to visit the newborn King? He was terrified. Now I am sure that there were other kings around and Herod was not afraid of them but this one king, this king of the Jews…well this was a different kind of king and Herod knew it. This would be a king that would turn the world that he knew upside down. As a matter of fact, when Herod called his priest and scholars together, he didn’t ask where this new king was supposed to be born. Oh no…he asked where the “Messiah” was suppose to be born. He knew…he had his V8 moment…his epiphany of what was to be. He knew that the prophecy was being fulfilled…the prophecy of the prophet Micah that was told so long ago. And he was afraid…

Epiphanies…I think most of us have them in some shape or form. They may not be as monumentus as the one of the Magi but they still rock us to the core with a sudden realization of something. My prayer for us as individuals and as a church is that we all will have that epiphany that will bring us ever closer to our Lord Jesus Christ this year…That we will have a revelation of who Christ is to us and who we are to Him…That we will embark on new journeys that will lead us to a new and exciting place where we will encounter our Redeemer in new ways.

Let us pray:

We have seen your star, O God, shining brightly over us and all the peoples of the earth. Teach us to trust your light.
Help us take risks, that we might step out in faith into the unknown. Guide us to the place where you abide, that we may be overwhelmed with joy like the magi before us. Guide us to the stable of your love, that we may offer you the gifts of our lives. Give us that Epiphany moment that draws us closer to you. (Abingdon Worship 2010)

Amen.

Saturday, January 02, 2010

In the Potter’s Hands – v2

Like malleable clay
warmed, cradled
lovingly held
in the potter’s hands
Our lives, our all
held, ever in his care
watched, guided
led through our days
if we will wear his yoke
submitting our way
to the potter’s hands

January 2, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
----
In the Potter’s Hands

I am clay in the potter’s hands
Mold me, shape me, make me
What you will of me
Use me for your purposes
Imbue me with the skills, the spirit
To serve where you would have me serve
Performing the services you would intend
Wherever you would send me
However you would will me
To send me forth
From this space, this place
Into the world
As your servant, your son
Your child, in your image,
The image of your son,
Our brother, our example,
Our savior, like us clay
Held in the potter’s hands

September 3, 2007 15:05
Jeremiah 18:1-11

Friday, January 01, 2010

Paths to God

In my faith, my tradition
one path, Christ
the way, the narrow gate
atoning for sin
an offering, the lamb
given on the cross
buried in the tomb
rising, giving us life

An older, deeper path
part of the same flock
all of them, the people
the children of Abraham,
of Isaac, Jacob, of Moses
of David, all the people
under the law, walking
in that light

What of others
where do these paths lead
fealty to the creator,
loving our neighbor
are these enough
without naming one way
how many
are the paths to God

January 1, 2010

the light of Christ

such hope, in the telling
the story of the visitors
the people from away
those from outside the ancient faith
Each of us, brought into the family
following the light of Christ
into the fold, the flock
members now
descendents of Abraham
stars in that heaven
grains of that same sand
following his star
the light of Christ
shining for you and me

January 1, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12

Visitors from the East

In some ways, this is our story
visitors from the east, the west
all points of the compass
coming to the Christ
following his natal star

His light shining
hope, love, God’s grace
piercing the darkness
revealed in the coming
of the babe in the manger
the man growing
choosing the cross
to set us free

Following his light
into relationship
leading us home
to our father, our master,
calling us to heaven above

January 1, 2010
Matthew 2:1-12

The Faithful Son

The Christ, coming to the earth
the faithful son,
following the master’s plan
submitting to the will of God
a servant, humble, even to death
the stain of our sin
the cup, poison
washing over his lips
Loving us, enough
God, Emmanuel
dying for me
faithful to the father
even unto death

December 31, 2009 and January 1, 2010