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Saturday, February 27, 2010

Fixing the Words

Fixing the words
every word of God
upon their hearts,
their lips, their tongues
sharing, over and over
remembered by the people
as if each one
had heard the words
directly from the voice of God


February 27, 2010
Deuteronomy 11:1-21
Deuteronomy 11:16-21


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Sharing the Law

Each member of the people
in ritual and in their day to day
down to the present age
called to remember
fixing the words,
writing them on their hearts
upon their minds, their hands
door frames and gates
in their comings and goings
to all generations
sharing their story
the law from the creator
a people chosen
living under the law
under this command


February 27, 2010
Deuteronomy 11:1-21
Deuteronomy 11:16-21


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Their Story

The leader, the prophet
telling their story
as if to their elders
remembering a shared memory
telling their story
in the present tense
how they were to remember
the might deeds
the commands
the history, the rebellion
the law, the decrees
all of what God told the people
as if to each one
to each new generation
as if speaking out of the clouds
from within the fire
as if speaking
for the very first time


February 27, 2010
Deuteronomy 11:1-21
Deuteronomy 11:16-21



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

By Blood and By Fire

The covenant sealed, honoring his faith
by the blood of the sacrifice
animals given, offered to God
consummated by the creator
by fire, passing between the halves
God and man in covenant
by blood and by fire

Promises of land,
of an inheritance in the future
of heirs to great to number
more than the stars in the night sky
theirs forever, if they are faithful
following his example
trusting in God
in the signs before our eyes.


February 27, 2010
Genesis 15:7-12, 17-18
and Genesis 15:1-6
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010,
“Be Careful What You Hope For”,
by Brent Waters
for 2/23/2010, read 2/27/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

In His Tents

In his temple, in the presence of
wanting only to live in his tents
to linger in his courts,
all of my life to dwell in the Lord

In his tabernacle, in his creation
ever singing praises to our God
mindful of his provision,
his part of the covenant
gifts of grace he has given

To us, merely tenants,
his servants, if we are willing
living, ever grateful, faithful
under the canopy of his love


February 27, 2010
Psalm 27:1-6
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010,
“Be Careful What You Hope For”,
by Brent Waters
for 2/24/2010, read 2/27/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Friday, February 26, 2010

A Promise of A Future

Like Abraham, like Isaac,
like Jacob, even like Moses
God’s gift to us
our hope like theirs
a promise of a future
a reward, a legacy
yet to come to fruition

Humble children
as we all are
wanting to see it now
needing to touch
lacking patience
saved by grace
faith in God

Toiling on in our lifetimes
not knowing the master’s plan
believing he will guide and protect us
leading us, ever
in that future
to that holy promised land


February 26, 2010
Genesis 15:1-6
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010,
“Be Careful What You Hope For”,
by Brent Waters
for February 22, 2010, read 2/26/2010




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

A Reward, An Inheritance, A Son

By his faith in God
doing as he had commanded
a reward, an inheritance
a son given
to the father of us all

Out of his faith
an inheritance, a relationship
a covenant with God
children more than the grains on the beach
more than the stars in the sky

Through faith alone
each of us in our own time
reconciled by Christ’s blood
but saved through his grace
our faith in the almighty God


February 26, 2010
Genesis 15:1-6
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010,
“Be Careful What You Hope For”,
by Brent Waters
for February 22, 2010, read 2/26/2010




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Turn to Him

When we turn to him
trusting in the Lord
no reason to fear
he is our protection
he is our reward.

Peace with us
though we tremble and quake
the quiet of the Lord
in his mighty embrace

Called to his side
into the presence of God
my teacher, my guide
my savior, by his grace
all praise to him on high.


February 26, 2010
Psalm 27:4
Psalm 27:1-14
Psalm 62:8
and Dad’s Bible, Walking in Authority segment,
on Psalm 27:1, entitled “No Fear”
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=25&year=2010
for February 26, 2010,
“Heart to Heart”,
by Dennis King
read 2/26/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Living in the Lord’s House

Any room would do
my wish, my prayer
living in the Lord’s house
walking with him
coming home to him
sharing my path, my way
spending my life with the Lord
My rock, my fortress
my home in the Lord
walking with the lamb of God
calling his temple my home


February 26, 2010
Psalm 27:4
Psalm 27:1-14
Psalm 62:8
and Dad’s Bible, Walking in Authority segment,
on Psalm 27:1, entitled “No Fear”
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=25&year=2010
for February 26, 2010,
“Heart to Heart”,
by Dennis King
read 2/26/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Comforted in My Exile

My work, my life here worthy
comforted in my exile
in the words of the prophet
trusting in the plan of God
all I do may be in his service
if given to the Lord

Each of us a missionary
all witnesses to his power
each with a story to share
of his abiding love
the mercy of his grace
the story of us all


February 26, 2010
Jeremiah 29:4-7
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=25&year=2010
for February 25, 2010,
“In the Present”,
by Chuck Hudspath
read 2/26/2010
&
Jeremiah 29:11
Jeremiah 29:1-14




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Speaking to the Captives

In the land of Babylon
away from their homes
a message for the people
God speaking to the captives

Living well in the land
growing as a people
sons and daughters to raise
gardens, food to grow

So we in the present,
refugees, strangers
believers in an alien land
maintaining fidelity with God

Trusting in his goodness
faithful in our days
believing in his steadfast love
following in his servant ways


February 26, 2010
Jeremiah 29:4-7
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=25&year=2010
for February 25, 2010,
“In the Present”,
by Chuck Hudspath
read 2/26/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Time with God

Entering in
time with God
finding messages for me
in the loving words of God
the scriptures revealing
speaking to me
offering me hope
insights into his love
stories of the people
lessons for my life
in the inspired words
on the holy pages
calling me once again
spending time with God


February 26, 2010
Philippians 4:4-9
2 Timothy 2:15
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=24&year=2010
for February 24, 2010,
“TV or the Bible”,
by Robin R. Priestley
read 2/26/2010
&
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Talk #6, Grow through Study



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Speaking in the Circle

Around the cross of Christ
glowing, illumined in candlelight
tired from our work
but joy in our hearts
Speaking in the circle
sharing our love for one another
lessons of the day
of God’s amazing grace


February 26, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-22-28/
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/26/2010, “Gift”, by Roberta Porter, and photo on pages 10-11 by Bill Wittman
read 2/26/2010
&
Our mission trip,
August 2007
from Wesley United Methodist Church,
http://www.concordwumc.org
Concord, NH and from First United Methodist Church,
Hudson, MA to Jacksonville and Machias, ME
to the Down East Maine Mission,
Jacksonville United Methodist Campground,
East Machias, ME




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Climbing the Stairs

They gather every week
some of our neighbors
to eat at our table;
but how many more
would come to our door
if they didn’t have to face
climbing the stairs

Money in the bank
sitting in our investments; yet
those we cannot reach
who never come to the table
too much to handle
with bodies old, feeble,
no room for them
those unable to climb the stairs


February 26, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-22-28/
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/25/2010, “The Sting”, by Brenda S. McKinney, page 34,
read 2/26/2010




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Focused on the Ground

Focused on the ground
on this mortal coil
forgetting God’s grace
thinking of our toil
Living in the moment
not thinking about the future
a place in heaven
when our work here is done

Eyes on the ground
on the work of our hands
not seeing the love of God
his holding us in his hands
Going through our day to day
thinking this is all there is
not focused on our place
looking toward our heavenly bliss


February 26, 2010
Philippians 3:17-4:1
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-22-28/
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/24/2010, read 2/26/2010




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Focused on Earth

Forgetting our place in creation
heaven our natural home
focused on the ground
thinking about earthly things

Too often stumbling
watching only our feet
concentrating on this life
forgetting our heavenly home


February 26, 2010
Philippians 3:17-4:1
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-22-28/
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/24/2010, read 2/26/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Robed for Heaven

Robed for heaven
bodies of light
transformed from the earth
to our heavenly delight

Rising like the Christ
at the end of our days
returning to heaven
to our celestial home



February 26, 2010
Philippians 3:17-4:1
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-22-28/
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/24/2010, read 2/26/2010



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 19,910+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Bodies of Light

New bodies, not of clay, of dust
bodies of light, like our savior, the Christ
Going to our homeland
when our work here is done
home to our heavenly father
and our brother, his son
No longer bound by
our skin, our bone,
the frailty of our bodies
rising to heaven
clothed for eternity


February 26, 2010
Philippians 3:17-4:1
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-22-28/
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/24/2010, read 2/26/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

By His Faith (2)

Not by his deeds
anything he had done
by his faith alone,
Abram made right with God

So it is, down to this age,
at the heart of our salvation
faith in the love of God
guiding us on our way

Hope fulfilled in his promises
the father and the son
the spirit speaking his love for us
all the days of our lives


February 26, 2010
Genesis 15:1-12, 17-18
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-22-28/
for February 22, 2010 to February 28, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for February 22, 2010, read 2/26/2010




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

The Words Comforting

In Christ’s use of the words
scripture to fight scripture
answering the devil
with the power of the Word

For us these words comforting
proof of his trust
his fulfillment of the prophecy
the Messiah come to life


February 26, 2010
Psalm 91:1-2, 9-16
Matthew 4:6
Matthew 4:1-11
Luke 4:1-13
Mark 1:12-13
Deuteronomy 8:2-3
Deuteronomy 8:3
Deuteronomy 6:10
Deuteronomy 6:13
Deuteronomy 6:16
Psalm 91:11-12
Psalm 91:12
&
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-15-21/
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/21/2010, read 2/22/2010




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Thursday, February 25, 2010

Big News - New Website for Poetry Where You Live

Big News – New Website - Please check out my brand new Poetry Where You Live homepage, with poetry, contact information, and portals to my blog, facebook, pictures, etc. You can find it at http://www.raymondfoss.com.

It was developed and is being hosted by Can 9 Software (http://www.can9software.com). Please give them a call at (508)-258-9002 if you need a site created. They did a great job for me; Reasonable price for hosting too.

Please share with others if you like these words. If you are on Facebook, please add me as a friend, and please consider joining the Poetry Where You Live fan page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Poetry-Where-You-Live/272274348550?ref=ts) and group page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=269400594402&ref=ts).



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Received via email 2/25/09 - "Because of Love"; with a prayer at the end, that I ask you to share: "Dear God, I pray for the cure of cancer."

Because of Love


A brother and sister had made their usual hurried, obligatory pre-Christmas visit to the little farm where dwelt their elderly parents with their small herd of horses. The farm was where they had grown up and had been named Lone Pine Farm because of the huge pine, which topped the hill behind the farm. Through the years the tree had become a talisman to the old man and his wife and a landmark in the countryside. The young siblings had fond memories of their childhood here, but the city hustle and bustle added more excitement to their lives and called them away to a different life.

The old folks no longer showed their horses, for the years had taken their toll and getting out to the barn on those frosty mornings was getting harder, but it gave them a reason to get up in the mornings and a reason to live. They sold a few foals each year and the horses were their reason for joy in the morning and contentment at day's end.

Angry, as they prepared to leave, the young couple confronted the old folks "Why do you not at least dispose of 'The Old One'. She is no longer of use to you. It's been years since you've had foals from her. You should cut corners and save so you can have more for yourselves. How can this old worn out horse bring you anything but expense and work? Why do you keep her anyway?"

The old man looked down at his worn boots, holes in the toes, scuffed at the barn floor and replied, "Yes, I could use a pair of new boots. His arm slid defensively about the Old One's neck as he drew her near with gentle caressing he rubbed her softly behind her ears. He replied softly, "We keep her because of love. Nothing else, just love."

Baffled and irritated, the young folks wished the old man and his wife a Merry Christmas and headed back toward the city as darkness stole through the valley. The old couple shook their heads in sorrow that it had not been a happy visit. A tear fell upon their cheeks. How is it that these young folks do not understand the peace of the love that filled their hearts?

So it was, that because of the unhappy leave-taking, no one noticed the insulation smoldering on the frayed wires in the old barn. None saw the first spark fall. None but the "Old One".

In a matter of minutes, the whole barn was ablaze and the hungry flames were licking at the loft full of hay. With a cry of horror and despair, the old man shouted to his wife to call for help as he raced to the barn to save their beloved horses. But the flames were roaring now and the blazing heat drove him back. He sank sobbing to the ground, helpless before the fire's fury. His wife back from calling for help cradled him in her arms, clinging to each other, they wept at their loss.

By the time the fire department arrived, only smoking, glowing ruins were left and the old man and his wife, exhausted from their grief, huddled together before the barn. They were speechless as they rose from the cold snow covered ground. They nodded thanks to the firemen as there was nothing anyone could do now. The old man turned to his wife, resting her white head upon his shoulders as his shaking old hands clumsily dried her tears with a frayed red bandana. Brokenly he whispered, "We have lost much, but God has spared our home on this eve of Christmas. Let us gather strength and climb the hill to the old pine where we have sought comfort in times of despair. We will look down upon our home and give thanks to God that it has been spared and pray for our beloved most precious gifts that have been taken from us."

And so, he took her by the hand and slowly helped her up the snowy hill as he brushed aside his own tears with the back of his old and withered hand.

The journey up the hill was hard for their old bodies in the steep snow. As they stepped over the little knoll at the crest of the hill, they paused to rest. Looking up to the top of the hill the old couple gasped and fell to their knees in amazement at the incredible beauty before them.

Seemingly, every glorious, brilliant star in the heavens was caught up in the glittering, snow-frosted branches of their beloved pine and it was aglow with heavenly candles. And poised on its top most bough, a crystal crescent moon glistened like spun glass. Never had a mere mortal created a Christmas tree such as this. They were breathless as the old man held his wife tighter in his arms.

Suddenly, the old man gave a cry of wonder and incredible joy. Amazed and mystified, he took his wife by the hand and pulled her forward. There, beneath the tree, in resplendent glory, a mist hovering over and glowing in the darkness was their Christmas gift. Shadows glistening in the night light.

Bedded down about the "Old One" close to the trunk of the tree, was the entire herd, safe.

At the first hint of smoke, she had pushed the door ajar with her muzzle and had led the horses through it. Slowly and with great dignity, never looking back, she had led them up the hill, stepping cautiously through the snow. The foals were frightened and dashed about. The skittish yearlings looked back at the crackling, hungry flames and tucked their tails under them as they licked their lips and hopped like rabbits. The mares that were in foal with a new year's crop of babies, pressed uneasily against the "Old One" as she moved calmly up the hill and to safety beneath the pine. And now, she lay among them and gazed at the faces of the old man and his wife. Those she loved she had not disappointed. Her body was brittle with years, tired from the climb but the golden eyes were filled with devotion as she offered her gift---

Because of love. Only Because of love. Tears flowed as the old couple shouted their praise and joy... And again the peace of love filled their hearts.

Making Christ Sin

The pure light of transfiguration
brighter than the sun
washed cleaner
than human hands can wash
Christ on the mountain,
shimmering with light

God fulfilling the scriptures
the cup of our salvation
the bitter cup in the garden
taken to his lips
God making Christ sin
though he was unblemished

Only in this offering
our sins transferred to the lamb
God able to seal the break
since the fall of Man.
Christ alone, the risen Lord
able to make us all
right once more with God


February 25, 2010
2 Corinthians 5:21
Luke 22:39-46
Matthew 26:35-45
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face,
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible,
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will,
but as thou wilt”. (KJV)



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Drinking Our Sin

The bitter cup of our shame
Christ drinking our sin
becoming our sacrifice
our offering for our stain

The pure unblemished lamb
without defect or stain
going to the altar of the cross
that we may live again


February 25, 2010
2 Corinthians 5:21
Luke 22:39-46
Matthew 26:35-45
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face,
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible,
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will,
but as thou wilt”. (KJV)




Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Alone with the Devil

Out of the waters
back from the Jordan
into solitude
a time of testing

Alone with the devil
no food for his body
Tempted for forty days
remaining righteous before God

Christ before his ministry
through the fire of temptation
withstanding all he offered
trusting in the word


February 25, 2010
Luke 4:1-13



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Holding On in His Spirit

The words of scripture
not for a repartee
not a battle of wills;
but a balm for his soul

Holding on in his spirit
the assurance of scripture
the law of God
steeling him, body and soul

Christ able,
though the devil tempting
looking inward
strength in the spirit within


February 25, 2010
Luke 4:1-13
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010,
“Lent’s Stark Realities”,
by Beverly J. Jones
for February 19, 2010
read 2/25/2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Letting Go of Righteousness

Open to the truth of our sin
our need for God’s saving grace
the log in my eye my focus
not the speck in my neighbor’s instead

Letting go of righteousness
all of us children of God
each a child of his grace
all worthy of his love


February 25, 2010
2 Corinthians 5:20b-6:10
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010,
“Lent’s Stark Realities”,
by Beverly J. Jones
for February 20, 2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Wednesday, February 24, 2010

Eyes on Jerusalem

No longer wandering,
going about the land
preaching, healing
spreading the message of love
the time coming
growing near,
his purpose
about to be revealed

That moment, pivotal
Christ’s eyes turned
his path changed, purposeful
his face set on Jerusalem
resolutely, determined
to go to the center
to fulfill the prophecy
living out God’s holy plan
that we may see eternity


February 24, 2010
Luke 9:51
&
Luke 18:9-14,
The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector,
Joel 2:12-17a
and Ash Wednesday Meditation
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 17, 2010
&
Joel 2:12-17a
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Ephesians 3:14-21
and Ash Wednesday Meditation
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 25, 2009


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Wearing Our Cross

Not for credit, not to show off
not to be seen as pious
She said it simply,
in response to my remarking
she was wearing her cross
outside her clothes
so everyone would know
she was a Christian,
claimed by the Christ
a child of the king

Matter of fact,
but with a sweet smile
growing across her face
her faith displayed, her life marked
opening conversations
as the one we enjoyed
Sharing her faith, wearing her cross
the symbol of his sacrifice
his love, his grace offered
on the outside for all to see


February 24, 2010
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Matthew 6:1-21
&
talking with a lady at
Coco Beauty Salon,
Elm Street, Manchester, NH
2/23/2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

In the Modeling of Prayer

Christ, in community
answering the disciples’ question
in the garden, the disciples asleep
pouring out his thoughts
tears falling heavy, like blood
in the anguish, knowing
the road to Jerusalem
to the cross, to the grave
in the modeling of prayer
hope for all of us
in coming to God in prayer
the love, the presence
the one on one relationship
coming joyful, thankful
even in our greatest trials
in our day to day struggles,
following the example of Christ
falling to our knees
praying to almighty God


February 24, 2010
Matthew 6:1-21
&
Adam Hamilton’s Facebook question,
February 23, 2010
“When you think of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane –
Matthew says he was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death –
and that he threw himself on the ground as he began to pray –
how has this passage brought help or comfort to you?”
Matthew 26:17-30;
Mark 14:12-25;
Luke 22:7-20.
&
Luke 22:39-46
Matthew 26:35-45
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face,
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible,
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will,
but as thou wilt”. (KJV)


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

To Be Gifted

Not in having the gift
the ability to write
intelligence, words
not a craft, a skill

Instead, I am thankful
to be gifted, to be given
given by the creator
his words to share

Feeling in this, fidelity,
a responsibility, a calling
to be voice of God
to offer his hope, his love


February 24, 2010
Luke 12:48b


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Inherent Dignity

Made in the image of the creator
inherent dignity for each person
loved into creation
each made by the hand of God

All of us, by grace and mercy
endowed with basic rights
common, inherent dignity
never to be breached


February 23, 2010
video “Ending U.S.-Sponsored Torture Forever”
http://www.nrcat.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=343&Itemid=259
National Religious Campaign Against Torture
110 Maryland Ave, NE, Suite 502
Washington, DC 20002
Phone: 202-547-1920
Fax: 202-547-1921
http://www.nrcat.org


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

6,000th poem –

With the last posting, I have now posted 6,000 poems to my blog, Poetry Where You Live, http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com. They have been written since 2000, most since 2004.

Please share with others if you like these words. If you are on Facebook, please add me as a friend, and please consider joining the Poetry Where You Live fan page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Poetry-Where-You-Live/272274348550?ref=ts) and group page (http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/group.php?gid=269400594402&ref=ts).



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

His Love

Christ’s love lived out, prophecy fulfilled
in his coming to earth as a man
In his ministry, healing the sick, the lame
making them clean, caring for them all
showing the true nature of God

But there in the garden
on his knees, in his pain
his love overcoming his fear
the stain, the shame of our sin
not enough to turn him from God

Christ’s love, sustaining him to the cross
descending to the grave
rising on the third day
making us clean with his blood
made whole, redeemed by grace
by the depth of his love for us


February 23, 2010
Adam Hamilton’s Facebook question,
February 23, 2010
“When you think of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane –
Matthew says he was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death –
and that he threw himself on the ground as he began to pray –
how has this passage brought help or comfort to you?”
Matthew 26:17-30;
Mark 14:12-25;
Luke 22:7-20.
&
Luke 22:39-46
Matthew 26:35-45
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face,
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible,
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will,
but as thou wilt”. (KJV)


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

On the ground as we pray

Fitting, in this moment of anguish
Christ falling to his knees
throwing himself to the ground
as he began to pray

On the ground as we pray
humbly, bowing before God
at the rail, at the foot of the cross
aware of some of the price
the cost of our salvation

Coming before God
in praise, in thanksgiving
in supplication
away coming before God
on the ground as we pray

Fervently needing
the grace, the presence
the loving hand of God
all the days of our life
each of us unworthy
all with feet of clay


February 23, 2010
Adam Hamilton’s Facebook question,
February 23, 2010
“When you think of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane –
Matthew says he was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death –
and that he threw himself on the ground as he began to pray –
how has this passage brought help or comfort to you?”
Matthew 26:17-30;
Mark 14:12-25;
Luke 22:7-20.
&
Luke 22:39-46
Matthew 26:35-45
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face,
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible,
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will,
but as thou wilt”. (KJV)


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

The Stillness of the Garden

The stillness of the garden
the disciples asleep
unaware of what was about to begin
quiet, in their sleep

The Lord, a little way off
carrying the cup of our sin
anguish, to his knees
the bitterness too much

By himself unable,
only in turning to God
able to drink, to believe
to follow the plan of God

Taking on our sin
as a servant to the Lord
this man, the savior,
the son of the living God

His grace, his choice to sacrifice
to fulfill the promise of old
more than I can comprehend
my life, myself, my all

Staring at eternity,
the words of his passion, his pain
focusing in these weeks of Lent
joy in the love of God


February 23, 2010
Adam Hamilton’s Facebook question,
February 23, 2010
“When you think of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane –
Matthew says he was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death –
and that he threw himself on the ground as he began to pray –
how has this passage brought help or comfort to you?”
Matthew 26:17-30;
Mark 14:12-25;
Luke 22:7-20.
&
Luke 22:39-46
Matthew 26:35-45
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face,
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible,
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will,
but as thou wilt”. (KJV)



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Our Hands on the Head of the Lamb

Oh I thank God,
for this little bit of grace
that in the Garden,
we didn’t place our hands
on the head of the lamb
(at least not directly)

Christ taking on my sin
drinking the blood of my shame
the bitter cup of the suffering
the cross, death in my name

That I may live
have new life
offering me a path
restored, made whole
repenting, believing,
returning back to God


February 23, 2010
Adam Hamilton’s Facebook question,
February 23, 2010
“When you think of Jesus' agony in the Garden of Gethsemane –
Matthew says he was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death –
and that he threw himself on the ground as he began to pray –
how has this passage brought help or comfort to you?”
Matthew 26:17-30;
Mark 14:12-25;
Luke 22:7-20.
&
Luke 22:39-46
Matthew 26:35-45
Matthew 26:39
“And he went a little further, and fell on his face,
and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible,
let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will,
but as thou wilt”. (KJV)



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

The Thong of His Sandal

Oh, I know, so well
the words of John
I am so unworthy
not even to touch
the thong of his sandal

The dust of the road
the dirt of the path
his eyes set on Jerusalem
going before me
leading me
climbing the cross
in my place

Oh yes, I am aware
painful in my guilt
of my lowly state
utterly unworthy
of his amazing grace.


February 23, 2010
Mark 1:1-8
John 1:19-28
John the Baptist and Christ


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

The Seeds Growing

The seeds growing
in the good soil
the roots deep
in the living waters
the word
the love of God

Bursting the clay pots
needing to go out
to spread the seeds we are given
offering his grace
the love of God
to the ends of the earth


=================
edited February 22, 2016
The Seeds Growing – v4
(editing original)
edited August 29, 2015
The Seeds Growing – v3
(editing original)
edited May 14, 2015
The Seeds Growing – v2
February 22, 2010
The Seeds Growing
Mark 4:1-20 The Parable of the Sower
Mark 4:21-25 A Lamp on a Stand
Mark 4:26-29 The Parable of the Growing Seed
Mark 4:30-34 The Parable of the Mustard Seed
Mark 4:1-34
&
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and bible study 2/21/2010
Suncook United Methodist Church
led by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
&
Alive Now Daily Reflections
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/16/2010, read 2/22/2010

All of my poems and photographs and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com ) for usage. See all 41,120+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com  Poetry Where You Live.

In the Good Soil

The seeds growing, alive, vital
bearing fruit, beyond our comprehension
touching lives in ways we do not know

In the good soil, hearts open
the roots deep, strong
finding the word

Hope in the scripture
in the community of saints
all of us together
children of God


February 22, 2010
Mark 4:1-20 The Parable of the Sower
Mark 4:21-25 A Lamp on a Stand
Mark 4:26-29 The Parable of the Growing Seed
Mark 4:30-34 The Parable of the Mustard Seed
Mark 4:1-34
&
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and bible study 2/21/2010
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
&
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-15-21/
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/16/2010, read 2/22/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Bits of My Words

So many times
the search finding results
bits of my words
spread across the ether
some of the hope
the joy, my faith
in places so far from home
little stones, into the ocean of the world
ripples washing on distant shores
finding their way
the urgency of God’s message
His love, for you, for me
reflected, radiating,
a light growing within me
the Spirit speaking
when I cannot find the words
God’s words, my words
sharing Christ with the world



February 23, 2010
Google searches finding my poetry
all over the web



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 20,650+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Bursting the Pots – Twitter version

The roots of the seeds planted
bursting the clay pots
unable to contain the joy
God within their hearts


February 22, 2010 – twitter version
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-15-21/
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/16/2010, read 2/22/2010



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 20,650+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Bursting the Pots

The roots of the seeds planted
bursting the clay pots
unable to contain the joy
God within their hearts

Each of us going
scattering our own seeds
using the gifts given by God
his love, out into the unknown


February 22, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-15-21/
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/16/2010, read 2/22/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Offering Seeds

Within society,
the community
transforming lives
offering seeds

The joy of the good news
the message of love from God
thrown onto the different soil
watered, fed, nurtured
hoping for a harvest untold.


February 22, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-february-15-21/
for February 15, 2010 to February 21, 2010
by Nancy Fergusons (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for 2/16/2010, read 2/22/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

The Leaves Crashing

Not softly, lazily
tumbling, a ballet to the earth
The leaves crashing
hurling themselves to the ground
The hot Indian summer
the sudden thunderstorm
heat rising from the hot pavement
a torrent of leaves
seeking the forest floor
Wind catching the thick oaks
mixing with the maple and birch
Crunching under my feet
soon but litter under the skeletal canopy
caught under the pines
Still for a while
bright colors of their dying
a quilt of many colors
nestled and unkempt, on the floor.


February 22, 2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Monday, February 22, 2010

Quieting Myself

Reclaiming a lost discipline
Quieting myself, in the presence of God
letting go of the world
spending time in the word.

Only in quieting myself
able to hear the message for me
calling God to speak
from deep inside of me

Words for our hearts
in each day of our lives
his voice alive in the words
calling to us to hear

Stilling myself
falling into the word
listening for his still small voice
echoing down through time

The words of scripture alive
if only we would see
if only we would hear
their message for our lives
sometimes oh so clear.


February 22, 2010
Psalm 46:10
Psalm 46:1-11
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=19&year=2010
for February 19, 2010,
“Practice Pausing”,
by Ed Ridgley
read 2/22/2010



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Admitting Our Brokenness

Not just our actions
the sins we can quantify
needing to admit our brokenness
the sin in our nature
our utter need
for the grace of God

He alone can heal the breach
the schism, the fall from grace
Only by his grace
are each of us restored
Christ alone, by his gift, his blood
only he is able to make a way
our path back to God at the end of our days


F====
edited February 19, 2015
Admitting Our Brokenness – v2
Psalm 51
February 22, 2010
Admitting Our Brokenness
Romans 3:23
Romans 3:21-26
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 17, 2010,
 “Ash Wednesday”,
by Jim M. Quint
read 2/22/2010
&
Genesis 2:15-3:13
Genesis 2:15-25
Genesis 3:1-13
1 John 4, 7, 9 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer,
Ephesians 5:20-33
and sermon,
 “What is This Thing Called Love?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on book,
Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 14, 2010
Transfiguration Sunday
&
Mark 9:2-9
&
Paragraph 103, Section 3 – Our Doctrinal Standards and General Rules:
The Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church, (generally Articles I to XII
and specifically:
Article II – “Of the Word, or Son of God, Who Was Made Very Man”;
Article VII – “Of Original or Birth Sin”;
Article VIII – “Of Free Will”),
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2008 edition
&
Romans 5:12-21
1 Corinthians 15:22
&
Doctrine of Original Sin
&
John Wesley’s sermon on Original Sin (sermon #44)
&
Worship service after Our Family’s Table
Mediation by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
on the meaning of “being made in the image of God”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 13, 2010
&
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Psalm 19:1-13
Congregational Centering hymn:
“Let All Things Now Living”
Faith We Sing, #2008
Anthem: “The Time Between”,
by R. Frederick Crider, Jr. (Ps. 31:14-15)
and sermon, “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on Chapter One (Genesis 1:1-2:3),
of book, Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 10, 2010
First Sunday in Epiphany
(Baptism of the Lord Sunday)
&
Psalm 8:4-5 (KJV)
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”


All of my poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,660+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

To Repent of Our Sin

Humbly we must fall
on our knees
at the cross
aware of our need
to truly repent of our sin

All have sinned
as Paul said in Romans
none worthy, all fallen
all short of the glory of God

Each of us needing,
no matter our age or circumstance
the grace of our savior
the love of almighty God


February 22, 2010
Romans 3:23
Romans 3:21-26
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=17&year=2010
for February 17, 2010,
“Ash Wednesday”,
by Jim M. Quint
read 2/22/2010
&
Genesis 2:15-3:13
Genesis 2:15-25
Genesis 3:1-13
1 John 4, 7, 9 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer,
Ephesians 5:20-33
and sermon,
“What is This Thing Called Love?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org/MessagePastorHuntley21410.dsp
based in part on book,
Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt (http://www.bnaibrith.org/lbureau/rosenblatt_naomi.cfm) and Joshua Horwitz (http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=42725&view=full_sptlght )
http://www.amazon.com/Wrestling-Angels-Spiritual-Sexuality-Relationships/dp/0385313330
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 14, 2010
Transfiguration Sunday
&
Mark 9:2-9
&
Paragraph 103, Section 3 – Our Doctrinal Standards and General Rules:
The Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church, (generally Articles I to XII
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1817
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1649
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1650
and specifically:
Article II – “Of the Word, or Son of God, Who Was Made Very Man”;
Article VII – “Of Original or Birth Sin”;
Article VIII – “Of Free Will”),
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=679753
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2008 edition
&
Romans 5:12-21
1 Corinthians 15:22
&
Doctrine of Original Sin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_sin
&
John Wesley’s sermon on Original Sin (sermon #44)
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/44/
&
Worship service after Our Family’s Table
Mediation by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
on the meaning of “being made in the image of God”

by Pastor Ruth Foss
A Handmaiden of the Lord
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH

January 13, 2010
&
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Psalm 19:1-13
Congregational Centering hymn:
“Let All Things Now Living”
Faith We Sing, #2008
Anthem: “The Time Between”,
http://www.gbod.org/worship/music/timebetween-crider.pdf
by R. Frederick Crider, Jr. (Ps. 31:14-15)
and sermon, “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on Chapter One (Genesis 1:1-2:3),
of book, Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 10, 2010
First Sunday in Epiphany
(Baptism of the Lord Sunday)
&
Psalm 8:4-5 (KJV)
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”




All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,730+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Right with God

Only in our faith in Christ
made right with God
sealing the breach
the chasm between God and man
eternal peace,
not earthly favor,
washed clean of our sin
anticipating eternity
our heavenly reward
when our work here is done


February 22, 2010
Romans 3:23
Romans 3:21-26
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=17&year=2010
for February 17, 2010,
“Ash Wednesday”,
by Jim M. Quint
read 2/22/2010
&
Genesis 2:15-3:13
Genesis 2:15-25
Genesis 3:1-13
1 John 4, 7, 9 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer,
Ephesians 5:20-33
and sermon,
“What is This Thing Called Love?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org/MessagePastorHuntley21410.dsp
based in part on book,
Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt (http://www.bnaibrith.org/lbureau/rosenblatt_naomi.cfm) and Joshua Horwitz (http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=42725&view=full_sptlght )
http://www.amazon.com/Wrestling-Angels-Spiritual-Sexuality-Relationships/dp/0385313330
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 14, 2010
Transfiguration Sunday
&
Mark 9:2-9
&
Paragraph 103, Section 3 – Our Doctrinal Standards and General Rules:
The Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church, (generally Articles I to XII
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1817
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1649
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1650
and specifically:
Article II – “Of the Word, or Son of God, Who Was Made Very Man”;
Article VII – “Of Original or Birth Sin”;
Article VIII – “Of Free Will”),
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=679753
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2008 edition
&
Romans 5:12-21
1 Corinthians 15:22
&
Doctrine of Original Sin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_sin
&
John Wesley’s sermon on Original Sin (sermon #44)
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/44/
&
Worship service after Our Family’s Table
Mediation by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
on the meaning of “being made in the image of God”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 13, 2010
&
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Psalm 19:1-13
Congregational Centering hymn:
“Let All Things Now Living”
Faith We Sing, #2008
Anthem: “The Time Between”,
http://www.gbod.org/worship/music/timebetween-crider.pdf
by R. Frederick Crider, Jr. (Ps. 31:14-15)
and sermon, “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on Chapter One (Genesis 1:1-2:3),
of book, Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 10, 2010
First Sunday in Epiphany
(Baptism of the Lord Sunday)
&
Psalm 8:4-5 (KJV)
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

By the Spirit’s Choosing

The talents, the gifts
shared in the congregation
out into the world
our unique ministries
all by the Spirit’s choosing

How wondrous
incredible to imagine
the way the gifts are given
to each to use for God’s glory
all part of the heavenly plan


February 22, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
1 Thessalonians 5:11
1 Corinthians 5:5
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=16&year=2010
for February 16, 2010,
“Thank You!”,
by Allan Baker
read 2/22/2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Through Us

God’s purposes,
God’s holy plans
worked out through us
the sheep of his flock
servants of this one master
brothers and sisters
all part of his family
all children of God


February 22, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
1 Thessalonians 5:11
1 Corinthians 5:5
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=16&year=2010
for February 16, 2010,
“Thank You!”,
by Allan Baker
read 2/22/2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

One Lord to Serve

All of us, each called
a member of one family
serving one master
all of us led
using our talents, our gifts
one Lord to serve
one eternal God
giver of these gifts
to his glory forever,
Amen.

February 22, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
1 Thessalonians 5:11
1 Corinthians 5:5
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=16&year=2010
for February 16, 2010,
“Thank You!”,
by Allan Baker
read 2/22/2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Sunday, February 21, 2010

Aware of Their Nakedness

Standing, hiding in the garden
the sound of the creator
fear in their hearts

Aware of their nakedness
the death of their innocence
in eating from the fruit

Forbidden by God
his first commandment
choosing to breach the only law of God

Not merely gaining insights
dying in their disobedience
forever banished from the garden
in the judgment of God


February 21, 2010
Genesis 2:15-3:13
Genesis 2:15-25
Genesis 3:1-13
1 John 4, 7, 9 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer,
Ephesians 5:20-33
and sermon,
“What is This Thing Called Love?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org/MessagePastorHuntley21410.dsp
based in part on book,
Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt (http://www.bnaibrith.org/lbureau/rosenblatt_naomi.cfm) and Joshua Horwitz (http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=42725&view=full_sptlght )
http://www.amazon.com/Wrestling-Angels-Spiritual-Sexuality-Relationships/dp/0385313330
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 14, 2010
Transfiguration Sunday
&
Mark 9:2-9
&
Paragraph 103, Section 3 – Our Doctrinal Standards and General Rules:
The Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church, (generally Articles I to XII
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1817
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1649
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1650
and specifically:
Article II – “Of the Word, or Son of God, Who Was Made Very Man”;
Article VII – “Of Original or Birth Sin”;
Article VIII – “Of Free Will”),
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=679753
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2008 edition
&
Romans 5:12-21
1 Corinthians 15:22
&
Doctrine of Original Sin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_sin
&
John Wesley’s sermon on Original Sin (sermon #44)
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/44/
&
Worship service after Our Family’s Table
Mediation by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
on the meaning of “being made in the image of God”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 13, 2010
&
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Psalm 19:1-13
Congregational Centering hymn:
“Let All Things Now Living”
Faith We Sing, #2008
Anthem: “The Time Between”,
http://www.gbod.org/worship/music/timebetween-crider.pdf
by R. Frederick Crider, Jr. (Ps. 31:14-15)
and sermon, “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on Chapter One (Genesis 1:1-2:3),
of book, Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 10, 2010
First Sunday in Epiphany
(Baptism of the Lord Sunday)
&
Psalm 8:4-5 (KJV)
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Breaking the Command

The very first man
breaking the command of God
man in the garden
breaking the very first law

Only one thing demanded
to follow his command
not to eat of the one fruit
everything else, he can

But sin entered in
choosing to disobey God
wisdom, good and evil
free will entering the world

By this breach
the stain we all bear
unable to live a righteous life
needing God’s grace alone

And God’s grace here
in the sacrifice of Christ
the man, the God, incarnate
coming to earth

He alone able,
to seal the ancient breach
to take on all our sin
with his blood to wash us clean


February 21, 2010
Genesis 2:15-3:13
Genesis 2:15-25
Genesis 3:1-13
1 John 4, 7, 9 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer,
Ephesians 5:20-33
and sermon,
“What is This Thing Called Love?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org/MessagePastorHuntley21410.dsp
based in part on book,
Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt (http://www.bnaibrith.org/lbureau/rosenblatt_naomi.cfm) and Joshua Horwitz (http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=42725&view=full_sptlght )
http://www.amazon.com/Wrestling-Angels-Spiritual-Sexuality-Relationships/dp/0385313330
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 14, 2010
Transfiguration Sunday
&
Mark 9:2-9
&
Paragraph 103, Section 3 – Our Doctrinal Standards and General Rules:
The Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church, (generally Articles I to XII
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1817
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1649
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1650
and specifically:
Article II – “Of the Word, or Son of God, Who Was Made Very Man”;
Article VII – “Of Original or Birth Sin”;
Article VIII – “Of Free Will”),
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=679753
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2008 edition
&
Romans 5:12-21
1 Corinthians 15:22
&
Doctrine of Original Sin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_sin
&
John Wesley’s sermon on Original Sin (sermon #44)
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/44/
&
Worship service after Our Family’s Table
Mediation by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
on the meaning of “being made in the image of God”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 13, 2010
&
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Psalm 19:1-13
Congregational Centering hymn:
“Let All Things Now Living”
Faith We Sing, #2008
Anthem: “The Time Between”,
http://www.gbod.org/worship/music/timebetween-crider.pdf
by R. Frederick Crider, Jr. (Ps. 31:14-15)
and sermon, “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on Chapter One (Genesis 1:1-2:3),
of book, Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 10, 2010
First Sunday in Epiphany
(Baptism of the Lord Sunday)
&
Psalm 8:4-5 (KJV)
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

And So it had to be

Because through one man
the breach, the break with God
sin entering the world
so it had to be
one man to heal the breach
the fall of man, sin,
once and for all time

The lamb, the son of God
come down to earth
able to seal the break
to bring us back to him
Coming as a servant
letting go of his choosing
submitting to God’s will


February 21, 2010
Genesis 2:15-3:13
Genesis 2:15-25
Genesis 3:1-13
1 John 4, 7, 9 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer,
Ephesians 5:20-33
and sermon,
“What is This Thing Called Love?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org/MessagePastorHuntley21410.dsp
based in part on book,
Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt (http://www.bnaibrith.org/lbureau/rosenblatt_naomi.cfm) and Joshua Horwitz (http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=42725&view=full_sptlght )
http://www.amazon.com/Wrestling-Angels-Spiritual-Sexuality-Relationships/dp/0385313330
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 14, 2010
Transfiguration Sunday
&
Mark 9:2-9
&
Paragraph 103, Section 3 – Our Doctrinal Standards and General Rules:
The Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church, (generally Articles I to XII
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1817
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1649
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1650
and specifically:
Article II – “Of the Word, or Son of God, Who Was Made Very Man”;
Article VII – “Of Original or Birth Sin”;
Article VIII – “Of Free Will”),
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=679753
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2008 edition
&
Romans 5:12-21
1 Corinthians 15:22
&
Doctrine of Original Sin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_sin
&
John Wesley’s sermon on Original Sin (sermon #44)
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/44/
&
Worship service after Our Family’s Table
Mediation by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
on the meaning of “being made in the image of God”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 13, 2010
&
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Psalm 19:1-13
Congregational Centering hymn:
“Let All Things Now Living”
Faith We Sing, #2008
Anthem: “The Time Between”,
http://www.gbod.org/worship/music/timebetween-crider.pdf
by R. Frederick Crider, Jr. (Ps. 31:14-15)
and sermon, “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on Chapter One (Genesis 1:1-2:3),
of book, Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 10, 2010
First Sunday in Epiphany
(Baptism of the Lord Sunday)
&
Psalm 8:4-5 (KJV)
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Out of the Garden

Not growing smarter
gaining an insight
becoming adults
on a par with God

Expelled, out of the garden
the bliss of walking with God
forever breaking the covenant
the command of God

The fall of man
dying to the creator
cast out of the garden
to toil in the land

Naked, animals,
exposed before the Lord
banished to work, to sweat
away from God

Not mere insight
sin, from that fateful day
all of man corrupted
by the stain of that choice

Never able, on our own
to seal this mighty breach
needing the coming of the Lord
our savior down to earth

Only by his grace,
not righteousness under the law
only the love of God
to bring us back to him


February 21, 2010
Genesis 2:15-3:13
Genesis 2:15-25
Genesis 3:1-13
1 John 4, 7, 9 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer,
Ephesians 5:20-33
and sermon,
“What is This Thing Called Love?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
http://www.suncookumc.org/MessagePastorHuntley21410.dsp
based in part on book,
Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt (http://www.bnaibrith.org/lbureau/rosenblatt_naomi.cfm) and Joshua Horwitz (http://www.randomhouse.com/author/results.pperl?authorid=42725&view=full_sptlght )
http://www.amazon.com/Wrestling-Angels-Spiritual-Sexuality-Relationships/dp/0385313330
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 14, 2010
Transfiguration Sunday
&
Mark 9:2-9
&
Paragraph 103, Section 3 – Our Doctrinal Standards and General Rules:
The Articles of Religion of the Methodist Church, (generally Articles I to XII
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1817
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1649
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?ptid=1&mid=1650
and specifically:
Article II – “Of the Word, or Son of God, Who Was Made Very Man”;
Article VII – “Of Original or Birth Sin”;
Article VIII – “Of Free Will”),
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=679753
The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church, 2008 edition
&
Romans 5:12-21
1 Corinthians 15:22
&
Doctrine of Original Sin
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Original_sin
&
John Wesley’s sermon on Original Sin (sermon #44)
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/44/
&
Worship service after Our Family’s Table
Mediation by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
on the meaning of “being made in the image of God”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 13, 2010
&
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Psalm 19:1-13
Congregational Centering hymn:
“Let All Things Now Living”
Faith We Sing, #2008
Anthem: “The Time Between”,
http://www.gbod.org/worship/music/timebetween-crider.pdf
by R. Frederick Crider, Jr. (Ps. 31:14-15)
and sermon, “The Book of Genesis: The Story of Our Beginning”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
based in part on Chapter One (Genesis 1:1-2:3),
of book, Wrestling With Angels: What Genesis Teaches Us About
Our Spiritual Identity, Sexuality and Personal Relationships,
by Naomi H. Rosenblatt and Joshua Horwitz
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 10, 2010
First Sunday in Epiphany
(Baptism of the Lord Sunday)
&
Psalm 8:4-5 (KJV)
“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? and the son of man, that thou visitest him? For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”



Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.