To Them on the Road

Appearing to these believers
appearing to them on the road
telling his whole story
the law and prophets fulfilled

Just one of the stories
the risen Christ walking with men
once more upon the earth
fulfilling the promise of God

Rising to heaven
pledging to come again
new bodies of our resurrection
when we rise with him


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22
1 Corinthians 15:26

&
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Appearing to the Believers

Christ risen from the dead
appearing to them
the assurance of his promise
to rise and come again

Our hope in the resurrection
the future of our own
rising with Christ to heaven
assured of our eternal home


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22
1 Corinthians 15:26

&
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Christ not Adam

Christ the final word
not the fate of Adam
our lives yoked to him
carrying our sins forever

Rising with Christ
when we die with him
ascending to heaven
in victory we sing


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22
1 Corinthians 15:26

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Wrapped in the Blanket of His Presence

When we grieve, sorrow
when a loved one leaves this earth
may we feel God close by
wrapped in the blanket of his presence
feeling his warm embrace

Sorrowful in this moment
though we believe in resurrection
hard to walk here without them
accustomed to seeing their face

Solace in the future
the promise of our king
to come down from heaven
and bring us all home to him



May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Assured of Our Resurrection

If we believe
follow the words of our faith
honoring our savior
loving walking in his steps

Assured of salvation
our resurrection from the dead
rising in our own bodies
ascending to heaven with him


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Rising with Christ

Rising with Christ
to come to his heavenly throne
our bodies rising
redeemed and restored

The old cast away
a new earth, Jerusalem
walking with our brother
on the streets paved with gold


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Death to be Destroyed

In rising he set the stage
when he returns all will be fulfilled
the last enemy to be defeated
death itself to be destroyed

The coming of eternity
no longer walking on this earth
holy streets of gold
in the new Jerusalem

Raised from the death
never to know such pain
reclaimed by our creator
that we may live with him

May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Freed by Christ

Our lives changed forever
no longer shackled to sin
freed by Christ
that we may walk with him

Our lives changed forever
in him we are reborn
restored to our creator
when our wills are conformed

Yoked to our brother
hearing the master’s call
the spirit dwelling within us
that we may bring the good news to all


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Free to Walk

Free to walk boldly
out into the world
the lamb taking on our sin
we are reborn, made whole

Servants of our master
taking on his yoke
walking with our savior
bringing the world our joy, our hope


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Freed by His Grace

The chains broken
freed of sin and death
the sacrifice of our savior
freed by his grace
the love of God revealing

In our brokenness, humanity
needing God to step in
by his blood we are forgiven
in his ascension
immortality


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

Shackled by His Sin

All of humanity
yoked to Adam
bearing the mark of his sin
since the fall in the garden

Carrying the stain of that mark
all our days numbered
failing to live right with God
in him mortality


May 7, 2010
1 Corinthians 15:20
1 Corinthians 15:12-34
1 Corinthians 15:1-58
1 Corinthians 15:21-22

&
Day 227, “Reality of the Resurrection”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/7/2010


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

A Reminder of His Teaching

A kernel of our savior
living within each of us
the spirit speaking
a reminder of his teaching
the story of God’s love

A gadfly to each believer
the shepherd’s steps to follow
turning our lives over
away from the world, from sin
remaining yoked with our brother

The eternal connection
the holy continuum
from the father to the son
the spirit guiding us to him
when our work here is done


May 7, 2010
John 14:23-29

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 7, 2010


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

If They Love Him

Painful words of reality
the goats and the lambs
following their master
knowing his voice for them

Some will be faithful
if they truly love him
others will walk away
following the call of the world

The lambs following
each of us his sheep
until his return for us
his promise to keep


May 7, 2010
John 14:23-29


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

If We Love Him

Painful words of our reality
the goats and the lambs
following or master
knowing his voice for us

Some of us will be faithful
if we truly love him
others will walk away
following the way of the world

The lambs following the master
each of us his sheep
until his return for us
his promise to keep


May 7, 2010
John 14:23-29


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

Foretelling His Ascension

To the believers speaking
foretelling his ascension
calling them to joy
though he was leaving this earth

So we must be
if we are truly believers
the faithful rising with him
going back to God


May 7, 2010
John 14:23-29


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

Reminding Me

The voice of the helper
as promised by our savior
the spirit speaking
from deep within my heart

Reminding me of the lessons
the story in the word
the truth of God’s love
that I would be renewed


May 7, 2010
John 14:23-29


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

Like a Broken Vessel

All the whole world
living in this place, in sin
like a broken pot upon the wheel
misshapen, deformed
needing to be healed

God’s promise
to redeem
to remake our brokenness
changing our whole lives
when we repent
when we turn to him


May 6, 2010
Isaiah 61
Isaiah 61:1-11
Isaiah 80:3
Revelations 21:1-7
Romans 4:25

&
Jeremiah 18:1-4

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=6&year=2010
for May 6, 2010, read May 6, 2010
“Broken and Restored”,
by Sandra Bartz


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 Shore of the Loch

In the land of my ancestors
by the ruins, going down to the shore
the waters of the loch
against the rocks,
the fragments of brick
washing in, by the wind
a mist rising, a glint of sun
shimmering water
above the peated deep

May 7, 2010


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

Called Into Service

Each of us uniquely
as given by the spirit
gifts for the work
building up the church of God

Called into service
to use the gifts we are given
to teach one another
the love of our God

Caring for the community
those who are neighbors
the strangers in our midst
that they would hear too

The saving of Christ’s sacrifice
his victory over death
the narrow gate of heaven
through the blood of the lamb

Yet freely his love given
so we must spread the news
Christ paved the way
that we would be redeemed before God


May 6, 2010
Matthew 25:15
Acts 16:9-15, 40

“Notes from Peter”, by Reverend Peter A. Hey,
about his sermon for Mother’s Day, May 9, 2010
“Lydia had the gift of giving. Her financial support of the early
Christian movement played a significant role in the church.
My sermon on Mother’s Day will help us appreciate her gifts
and the gifts of leadership that many women bring to the church.
I believe that loving, listening and learning are essential for leadership.
I will be preaching this sermon at the evening service, as well as
the morning services.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH

&
Acts 16:13-15
Acts 16:9-12
Acts 16:9-15

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 4, 2010

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 3, 2010

&
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter

&
2 Timothy 1:2

&
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.

Accepting Our Gifts

Each of us given
gifts for the kingdom
special talents
to lift the church up

Each of us called
to holy service
accepting our gifts
given by God

Doing the work
what we are called for
spreading his message
in our special way

Love, God incarnate
giving himself for us
our call in our time
is to pick up our cross


May 6, 2010
Matthew 25:15
Acts 16:9-15, 40

“Notes from Peter”, by Reverend Peter A. Hey,
about his sermon for Mother’s Day, May 9, 2010
“Lydia had the gift of giving. Her financial support of the early
Christian movement played a significant role in the church.
My sermon on Mother’s Day will help us appreciate her gifts
and the gifts of leadership that many women bring to the church.
I believe that loving, listening and learning are essential for leadership.
I will be preaching this sermon at the evening service, as well as
the morning services.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH

&
Acts 16:13-15
Acts 16:9-12
Acts 16:9-15

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 4, 2010

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 3, 2010

&
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter

&
2 Timothy 1:2

&
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.

Accepting Her Gifts

Each of us specially gifted
given talents for the kingdom
leadership, or vision
of speaking in tongues

Whether our brother or sister,
a stranger, some other
all of us called
to bring souls to God

Each of us leaders
in some form or another
all of us called
to be messengers of Christ

Praise for the saints
those who have gone before us
faithful to their calling
part of why we are here at all


May 6, 2010
Matthew 25:15
Acts 16:9-15, 40

“Notes from Peter”, by Reverend Peter A. Hey,
about his sermon for Mother’s Day, May 9, 2010
“Lydia had the gift of giving. Her financial support of the early
Christian movement played a significant role in the church.
My sermon on Mother’s Day will help us appreciate her gifts
and the gifts of leadership that many women bring to the church.
I believe that loving, listening and learning are essential for leadership.
I will be preaching this sermon at the evening service, as well as
the morning services.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH

&
Acts 16:13-15
Acts 16:9-12
Acts 16:9-15

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 4, 2010

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 3, 2010

&
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter

&
2 Timothy 1:2

&
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.

Gathering Together

Gathering together
around your table
a community in worship
praising our king

Seeing one another,
as children, as we are
all of us humbly
coming before God


May 7, 2010
on posting the following poem
to christianpoetry today
-----

They Join Us

Our neighbors, in their own homes
opening food we have donated
their daily bread provided
God acting their our hands
In these acts of sharing
joining us at the one table
one family around the table of the Lord


October 4, 2009
1 Corinthians 11:17-29
Matthew 25:31-40
Communion Liturgy
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
& sermon, “The Ecology of The Lord’s Supper”
& Benediction
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/4/09
World Communion Sunday
http://www.textweek.com/festivals/worldcommunion.htm


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

We Gather Together

A community assembling
we gather together
all of our souls
joined around the table of the Lord
sharing a meal, the sacred supper
when he broke the bread
and poured out the wine for us

May 7, 2010
on posting the following poem
to christianpoetry today
-----

They Join Us

Our neighbors, in their own homes
opening food we have donated
their daily bread provided
God acting their our hands
In these acts of sharing
joining us at the one table
one family around the table of the Lord


October 4, 2009
1 Corinthians 11:17-29
Matthew 25:31-40
Communion Liturgy
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
& sermon, “The Ecology of The Lord’s Supper”
& Benediction
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/4/09
World Communion Sunday
http://www.textweek.com/festivals/worldcommunion.htm


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

Our Sanctuary in Him

No walls, no temple
in the new age
the new Jerusalem
God himself with us

Our sanctuary in him
all of our struggles gone
pain stalking us no more
his light, his glory
shining, brighter than the sun

Lighting this new world
no sea, no sun, no moon
in the presence of the Lord
shining beauty
perfect love living
sharing eternity
with you and me


May 6, 2010
Revelations 21:22-22:5
Revelations 21:10
Revelations 21:10, 21:22-22:5
Revelations 21:10-22:5

reading for May 6, 2010
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden

reading for May 5, 2010
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden

&
1 Kings 19:12
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 5, 2010
Editor’s Note, page 2,
Alive Now magazine
for May/June 2010
by Eli Fisher, Valerie K. Isenhower,
and Judith A. Todd


&
Revelations 21:1-4
Revelations 21:1-6
Isaiah 6:1-3
Genesis 2:8-10
Genesis 10:17

Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 2, 2010


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

To My Beloved Child

The echo of his words
to the one, to all
that would follow
to my beloved child
remember my prayer

Thankful eve, always
for your faith, growing
handed down, taught
in your family, by them

Multiple generations
sharing our tradition
the beliefs common
leading us to act

Boldly, you and I
my beloved child
going as we are called
out into the world
sharing God’s love


May 6, 2010
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter

&
2 Timothy 1:2



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

Before All Others, Love

God, before all others
love, the essence of God
by his hands, his words
making all there is
all that ever way
and all that is yet to be

Giving us life
by his loving breath
from the dust of the earth
he molded us, shaped us
made us his own

Love, before all others
before we walked the earth
and in sending his son
hope for our rebirth

Changing our focus
deep from within
guiding us home
through the gate of the lamb

His love, in all that he is
a future, communion
for all he
gathers in


May 6, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:13
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
1 Corinthians 12:30-13:13
John 3:16
1 John 4:8
Genesis 1:1

&
Day 226, “Love’s Preeminence”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/6/2010


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

A National Day of Prayer

Solomon in the Temple
the people gathered
coming before the Lord
in a national day of prayer

Climbing the platform
yet falling to his knees
his hands to heaven
praying for his people

Not so much for fortune
for victory or power
rather praying they all
would be faithful
humble before God

A people together
praying with one voice
mindful of our creator
and all he does for us

Giving thanks
and promising loyalty
petitions for his presence
and for forgiveness when we fall
as we walk on this earth

Humbly praying
as a nation, a people gathered
that we would be faithful
following our savior
all the days of our lives


May 6, 2010
2 Chronicles 6:1-42
and
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Day_of_Prayer
National Day of Prayer
http://nationaldayofprayer.org/


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

Handed Down

In this community of faith
the bonds of family
beliefs handed down
sent out into the world

The musings of his mentor
the teacher praying for his student
lovingly remembering
all that he has done

Handing down the love of God
giving to future generations
imparting our belief in him
the truth of his promises

Sharing with our children
the strangers that we me
loving one another
as our savior himself taught


May 6, 2010
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter


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

The Beam of His Light

Into the darkness
the beam of his light
shining brightly
that all would see

The living God
walking upon the earth
by his death and rising
giving eternal birth

Into the shadows
redeeming us from death
the light of his message
a testament of God’s love


May 5, 2010
Matthew 5:13-16
Matthew 5:12-16
Isaiah 9:1-2
1 Peter 2:9
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=5&year=2010
for May 5, 2010, read May 5, 2010
“Lighthouses”,
by Teresa Murphy


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

The Light of Hope

Cutting through the fog, the chaos
piercing the dark
the light of God’s hope
calling to each one of us

Making a way through the darkness
showing us a way home
our task to take up the beacon
shining light for the whole world


May 5, 2010
Matthew 5:13-16
1 Peter 2:9
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=5&year=2010
for May 5, 2010, read May 5, 2010
“Lighthouses”,
by Teresa Murphy


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

In Visions Glorious

In visions glorious
in hushed words whispering
God’s message for believers
speaking to our hearts


May 5, 2010
Revelations 21:10
Revelations 21:10, 21:22-22:5
Revelations 21:10-22:5

reading for May 5, 2010
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden

&
1 Kings 19:12
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 5, 2010
Editor’s Note, page 2,
Alive Now magazine
for May/June 2010
by Eli Fisher, Valerie K. Isenhower,
and Judith A. Todd


&
Revelations 21:1-4
Revelations 21:1-6
Isaiah 6:1-3
Genesis 2:8-10
Genesis 10:17

Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 2, 2010


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

Listening Closely

Deep within me
letting all come together
the words of scripture
my experience
God speaking to me
changing my life

Listening closely
his voice leading
calling to me
from deep within
trusting in God
going where I am led


May 5, 2010
1 Kings 19:12
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 5, 2010
my understanding of discernment and
Editor’s Note, page 2,
Alive Now magazine
for May/June 2010
by Eli Fisher, Valerie K. Isenhower,
and Judith A. Todd


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

A Vision of Heaven

Given a glimpse of the future
seeing the new Jerusalem
falling down from heaven
marking the end of the age

The assurance of a future
a time yet to come
God and man together
living as one


May 5, 2010
Revelations 21:10
Revelations 21:10, 21:22-22:5
Revelations 21:10-22:5

reading for May 5, 2010
written before reading
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden

&
Revelations 21:1-4
Revelations 21:1-6
Isaiah 6:1-3
Genesis 2:8-10
Genesis 10:17

Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 2, 2010


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

Hearing His Message

Speaking deep within me
hearing his message
his guidance for my life
clarity amidst the clutter
hearing my master’s voice

Changing my life forever
going a different way
yoked with my savior
guided by my master
following where he would lead


May 5, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-may-3-9-2/
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 5, 2010 (part of the assignment, to write about discernment, but not reading the editor’s note)


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

Discerning

Seeking God’s message
discerning his wisdom for me
listening for his voice
speaking inside of me

Finding God’s answers
for the questions I carry
leading me in his direction
conforming my will to his


May 5, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-may-3-9-2/
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 5, 2010 (part of the assignment, to write about discernment, but not reading the editor’s note)


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

Would that is was easy

Would that it was easy
to hear God’s message for me
changing my path to his direction
conforming my way to his

So much chatter, confusion
other messages in the mix
competing for my attention
trying to lead me away from him


May 5, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-may-3-9-2/
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 5, 2010 (part of the assignment, to write about discernment, but not reading the editor’s note)


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

His Empty Tomb

At the heart of our faith
the message we hand down
from one generation to the other
the love of God revealed

His empty tomb at the center
not merely the empty cross
the heavy price he paid
but oh the joy remains

Changing the world forever
redeeming all mankind
his message handed down
to this present age

Ours to continue
to each generation in turn
teaching as we were taught
going to the ends of the earth

Sent as he was sent, out into the world
until the whole world knows
the love of our creator
our master, our Lord


May 5, 2010
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter

&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday


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

Your Deep Faith – v2

The loving memory
the teacher in this message
the letter sending out
an affirmation of his faith

Grounded in the women
his mother and grandmother
they instilled in him the passion
the reverence of his faith

Your deep faith I too remember
the women in my life
grounding me in the living water
in the way you walk(ed) each day

Wanting to share their legacy
the message they passed on
the love of our creator
and the amazing grace of the savior

Leading me to pass on
the lessons I have learned
living as a servant
a believer in the Lord

The one way to salvation
through the narrow gate
yet joy as on that first Easter morning
our savior, risen, in victory
showing us the way to the father
the gift of eternity


May 5, 2010
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter


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

Your Deep Faith

The loving memory
the teacher in this message
the letter sending out
an affirmation of his faith

Grounded in the women
his mother and grandmother
they instilled in him the passion
the reverence of his faith

Your deep faith I too remember
the women in my life
grounding me in the living water
in the way you walk(ed) each day

Wanting to share their legacy
the message they passed on
the love of our creator
and the amazing grace of the savior
leading me to claim his name


May 5, 2010
2 Timothy 1:3-7
Psalm 25:4-5
Psalm 103 and Psalm 138 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Where does our Spirituality come from?”
and sermon, “We Are Spiritual Teachers”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 9, 2010
Mother’s Day
Fifth Sunday After Easter


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 - 2

A knowing of our lives
the talents and strengths
our histories and beliefs
guiding us from within

By the spirit’s choosing
gifts from God
given to each of us
welling up from within

Our hands, our feet
our voices to God’s cause
becoming workers in the field
sheep and shepherds as well
doing our master’s work


May 5, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:4
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
1 Corinthians 12:8-10
1 Corinthians 12:28-30
1 Corinthians 12:7
1 Corinthians 14:12

Day 225, “Spiritual Gifts”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/5/2010

& earlier poem:
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.

From within our hearts

The spirit working
manifesting gifts within us
sharing in the work
Christ’s message of love
from deep within our hearts

Each given different gifts
as we are chosen
empowered by the spirit
working from within us
fulfilling our calling from God


May 5, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:4
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
1 Corinthians 12:8-10
1 Corinthians 12:28-30
1 Corinthians 12:7
1 Corinthians 14:12

Day 225, “Spiritual Gifts”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/5/2010


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

Hope in Our Faith - 2

The blessings of life
here on the earth
God’s hand guiding
helping us through

Hope in our faith
at the end of our days
giving eternity
to spend with God

The promises of old
fulfilled in our savior
and the spirit living
indwelling with us

Hope for that future
when all of us are gathered
entering in, joyous
to the courts of the Lord


May 5, 2010


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

Not Fearing the Plumb Line

The judgment of God
in the people under the law
measuring them
against the plumb line

Our lives blessed
by the gift of our savior
no longer judged
my the law alone

By his grace we are offered
salvation if we answer
repenting of our lives
turning away from the world

Not fearing the plumb line
but coming joyful
broken people, yet faithful,
baptized, entering in


May 5, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
Philippians 1:6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=4&year=2010
for May 4, 2010, read May 4, 2010
“A Different Standard”,
by Bill Lizor


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

Measured Against the Plumb Line

Each of our lives
just as of old
to be measured
against the plumb line

Yet none of us worthy
to come before God
all falling short of perfection
needing our savior

The blood of the lamb
poured out to balance
righting the scales
wiping clean the slate

Making us straight
all of us right
in the loving eyes
of almighty God


May 4, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
Philippians 1:6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=4&year=2010
for May 4, 2010, read May 4, 2010
“A Different Standard”,
by Bill Lizor


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

Making Me Right

Christ alone, by his blood
making me right
straight against the plumb line
only by his sacrifice
becoming the lamb of God

Giving himself, taking my sin
going to the cross in my place
Christ making me straight
right under the law
that I may truly live


May 5, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
Philippians 1:6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=4&year=2010
for May 4, 2010, read May 4, 2010
“A Different Standard”,
by Bill Lizor


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

Making Us Right

Christ alone, by his blood
making us right
straight against the plumb line
only by his sacrifice
becoming the lamb of God

Giving himself, taking our sin
going to the cross in our place
Christ making us straight
right under the law
that we may truly live


May 5, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
Philippians 1:6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=4&year=2010
for May 4, 2010, read May 4, 2010
“A Different Standard”,
by Bill Lizor


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

Making Us Straight

Christ’s sacrifice alone
making us straight
right before the Lord
plumb before the judgment seat
clean in his sight

Only when we repent of our sin
coming to the master
falling to our knees
asking him to enter in

Washed by his blood,
we are baptized
in him alone redeemed
making us straight before the master
coming to our king


May 5, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
Philippians 1:6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=4&year=2010
for May 4, 2010, read May 4, 2010
“A Different Standard”,
by Bill Lizor


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

When We Are Not Straight

Our lives imperfect,
leaning to one side or another
away from the center, Christ
when we are not straight

Resetting our life’s focus
ceasing our wandering
drawn to our savior
opening our hearts to him


May 4, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
Philippians 1:6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=4&year=2010
for May 4, 2010, read May 4, 2010
“A Different Standard”,
by Bill Lizor


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

That We Were Plumb

If only it were that easy
if one we could meet God’s test
that our lives, our beings
that we were plumb,
upright, always
following our master
living according to the law
by love, for our fellow
travelers here below
lovingly obedient
faithful to God’s commands


May 4, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
Philippians 1:6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=4&year=2010
for May 4, 2010, read May 4, 2010
“A Different Standard”,
by Bill Lizor


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 Side of the River

Finding the faithful
set apart, praying,
by the side of the river
joining them there

Sharing their faith easily
letting God speak through them
opening the eyes of the believers
bringing them closer to God


May 4, 2010
Acts 16:13-15
Acts 16:9-12
Acts 16:9-15

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 4, 2010

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden
for May 3, 2010


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

Remembering Our Weakness

In hearing of the past
the fall of the people
a reminder in their history
of our own mortality

Remembering our weakness
our fall into sin, temptation
the weakness of the flesh
our utter need for God

Only through his mercy
his spirit dwelling within us
guided by his voice
to stay upon the path

Leaning on the savior
following his example
doing the right by submitting
our will over to God


May 4, 2010
1 Corinthians 10:13
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
1 Corinthians 10:1-22

Day 224, “Triumph in Temptation”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/4/2010


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

When We are Weak

Assurance in the words
a place of refuge
comfort within the storms
when temptation costs
as it surely will

God with us, when we turn to him
there already, walking at our side
protecting us in our struggles
giving us the strength we need
to walk out appointed path


May 4, 2010
1 Corinthians 10:13
1 Corinthians 10:12-13
1 Corinthians 10:1-22

Day 224, “Triumph in Temptation”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/4/2010


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

The Fruits of Last Autumn

Hanging on the tree, empty
the fruits of last autumn
the cones hanging
husks upon the branches
under the limbs of green

Reminders of the seeds
that recently were disbursed
falling like rain drops
spreading on the wind
to find new homes again


May 4, 2010
Pembroke Village School
Pembroke, NH



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

All of These Sheep

Many flocks becoming one
one shepherd to protect and guide us
all his sheep, those he would comfort
hearing the voice of our master
entering the court through him
answering his loving call


May 3, 2010
John 10:11-15
John 10:7-18
Psalm 23:1

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=3&year=2010
for May 3, 2010, read May 3, 2010
“My Sheep”,
by Josephine M. Sherard


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

What we can only anticipate

In imagery we cannot picture
God’s love overwhelming
nothing we have ever heard
more than we can comprehend
What we can only anticipate
the fullness of God’s promise
once we join him in glory
and see the truth of paradise


May 3, 2010
1 Corinthians 2:9
1 Corinthians 2:6-10
1 Corinthians 2:6-16
Isaiah 64:4

Day 223, “The Unimaginable”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/3/2010


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

Going, Because of His Vision

One more, seeing a vision
changing his life
into a new direction
following God’s call
his plan for his ministry

Going, because of his vision
leaving the familiar
sent to an unknown country
urgently going
faithful to God’s call


May 3, 2010
Acts 16:9-12
Acts 16:9-15

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for May 3, 2010 to May 9, 2010,
“God’s Vision for Us”,
by Ken R. Hayden


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

Readings at 1st meeting of a poetry group, Suncook Senior Center, Allenstown, NH

Readings at 1st meeting of a poetry group
at the Suncook Senior Center
Allenstown, NH
May 3, 2010
10:30-11:30am

Humid, Before I am Ready

The morning sticky
moisture coming,
rising on my brow
my forehead,
almost without exertion
calling for the tissue
to mop up the water

Walking through the thick air
the girls heading to school
the cool of the water bottle
cold in my hand

No air moving
the eager trees waiting
maples lush green already
moving from chartreuse, to kelly, to darker green
the rain not yet coming.
Oh, I just felt a breeze

May 3, 2010
------------------------------
Only One Word

The crux of the story, of God,
of his relationship with man
The one word, Love,
eternal, a watchword for life
for his calling to each one
on living a life of charity,
of patience, of kindness,
walking humbly by loving
lifting a hand for those in need,
raising a voice against injustice
walking a mile in another’s shoes
holding criticism, being still in our spirits
rising above petty squabbles
caring for others first,
hearing the message of God
acting on his servanthood
being his hands going out into the world
only one word, Love
beyond comprehension,
in the meaning of God;
but, manifested in our lives,
a beacon of hope,
light in the darkness, the coarseness
of this troubled world

February 22, 2009
Matthew 7:1-5
1 Corinthians 13:1-7 and
Sermon, “The Gift of Love”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
February 15, 2009
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
-------------------------
Like Pearls of Light

Like pearls of light,
like drops of rain, falling, as a shower
adding living water, a rushing stream
a waterfall, like water etching rock
so should the believers be, washing over the earth
bringing the spirit, the love, the message of Christ
his ministry continuing in all we do in our lives
living out the teachings of the prophets,
the example of our savior, the judgment prophesized
all we are a reflection, living light, our sinew infused
imbued with that spirit’s power, the anointed ones
as we are, as he was commissioned by the father,
so we are sent forth, to be Christ, to be his witnesses
crying out into the wilderness, making his path straight
preparing the way, for the coming of the Lord


January 27, 2009
Matthew 28:18-20
John 20:21
Acts 2:1-21
and Isaiah 42:6-8
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 25:31-40
and sermon, “Righteous Say When?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church,
Suncook, NH
January 25, 2009
-------------------------
Dancing Light

Hot summer eve
watching by the lawn, the field
dancing light in the grasses
the fireflies showing their finery
climbing higher to be seen

As I come near
rising into the humid air
dancing on the breezes
in the not yet still air

Catching one in my cupped hands
staring into the light
warm on my fingertips
feeling them alight

Pushing off of my open hands
joining the others in flight
dancing at the top of the grasses
a symphony of movement and light

February 12, 2010
---------------------------
Glassworks

Mesmerized, watching
The skill, artistry
Effortlessness in the heat
Of the sweating craftsmen
In the beach air
On the Vineyard

Living,
Molten glass, clear
Droop on the shaft
Entering the
Orange maw
Mouth of the furnace

Glow yellow
from the warming
Glistening wet
Grow with the blow
Liquid and free

Spin and catch
Supple flesh
Add color and form
Enter again
Translucence now
Hot gases
Fill the space
Wipe brow
Enter again

Cool and gel
Cut from the pipe
Clutched like a robin’s egg
By a toddler’s wonder
Placed to firm and harden
Into permanent wonder

Written 6/20/04 14:06, about Martha’s Vineyard Glassworks, somewhere I spent hours, over many summers in the 1990’s watching bowls, pitchers, pictures, and more, come to life.
-----------------------------------
Beach Sand

Maybe it is the memories
the change of pace that brings us there
the sense of vacation
maybe the smell of the place
the sights of the gulls, the dunes, the grasses
but oh it is the feel of it,
the crunch and slide of it
the feeling of beach sand
so different from dirt, soil, loam
no, not earthy, moist, rich,
but oh so granular and gritty
even when wet,
moveable paper spreading under toes
sliding beneath the soles
smoothing my skin
clearing my mind
unburdening me of the rest
drawing me to the tactile, the feel
of beach sand

July 15, 2006 19:03

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

Her Blue Chair

Dark arms of wood
short legged, as we are
sitting empty in the living room
the place of her blue chair

Back to the front hallway
just beyond the base of the stair
a color as must have been on Mary’s head
in that certain shade of blue

Crumpled fabric, wrinkled, old
lovingly used for many ages
yet always empty on the holidays
as Gram was always in other places


May 3, 2010
inspired by the readings at
1st meeting of a poetry group
at the Suncook Senior Center
Allenstown, NH


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

Whose Banner Are We Carrying

As we look at human history
in every era, every nation
each one claiming Christ
as we went into battle

Chaplains on the front line
healing broken souls
yet also telling each
that God was one our side

How the Lord must sorrow
when he looks down from above
that so much killing
has been done claiming his name


May 3, 2010
inspired by the readings at
1st meeting of a poetry group,
at the Suncook Senior Center
Allenstown, NH
including the poem,
“Barbara Frietchie,” a poem from the Civil War era
by the American poet John Greenleaf Whittier
and the video played by the director
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pfBUUZNbFM&feature=player_embedded
by third graders of Tussing Elementary School,
Colonial Heights, Virginia


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

With Their Young Voices

The stirring of emotion
of the wisdom of the young
recognizing the sacrifice
of our sons and daughters
of our parents and brothers

With their young voices raising
the gratitude of a nation
honoring their courage
and their duty,
holding them in reverence


May 3, 2010
inspired by the readings at
1st meeting of a poetry group
and the video played by the director
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5pfBUUZNbFM&feature=player_embedded
by third graders of Tussing Elementary School,
Colonial Heights, Virginia,
at the Suncook Senior Center
Allenstown, NH


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

Within the maw of the oven

Like looking inside a Faberge
Like a living foundry of Hell
the maw of the oven
glowing orange and red

Into the mouth the glass went
hammered by the heat
dancing in motion and form
giving to the artist’s hands


May 3, 2010
reading the following poem, Glassworks” at the
1st meeting of a poetry group
at the Suncook Senior Center
in response to the reading by another of
“The Village Blacksmith”,
by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

&
http://www.mvglassworks.com/gallery.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Faberg%C3%A9_egg


-------------------
Glassworks

Mesmerized, watching
The skill, artistry
Effortlessness in the heat
Of the sweating craftsmen
In the beach air
On the Vineyard

Living,
Molten glass, clear
Droop on the shaft
Entering the
Orange maw
Mouth of the furnace

Glow yellow
from the warming
Glistening wet
Grow with the blow
Liquid and free

Spin and catch
Supple flesh
Add color and form
Enter again
Translucence now
Hot gases
Fill the space
Wipe brow
Enter again

Cool and gel
Cut from the pipe
Clutched like a robin’s egg
By a toddler’s wonder
Placed to firm and harden
Into permanent wonder


Written 6/20/04 14:06, about Martha’s Vineyard Glassworks, somewhere I spent hours, over many summers in the 1990’s watching bowls, pitchers, pictures, and more, come to life.

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

Humid, Before I am Ready

The morning sticky
moisture coming,
rising on my brow
my forehead,
almost without exertion
calling for the tissue
to mop up the water

Walking through the thick air
the girls heading to school
the cool of the water bottle
cold in my hand

No air moving
the eager trees waiting
maples lush green already
moving from chartreuse, to kelly, to darker green
the rain not yet coming.
Oh, I just felt a breeze

May 3, 2010


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

Like the One Seeking Healing

Somehow knowing
even before I fully believed
Christ calling, that I may come
like the one seeking healing
seeking him out

Opening myself
entering a strange place
on my knees
seeking his grace
going into the sanctuary
finding faces friendly
caring people
helping me with my needs


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Like the One Seeking Christ

Feeling many times
like the one in the story
broken, needing healing
like the one seeking Christ

Entering in, though a stranger
seeking acceptance,
healing from God

Going boldly,
because of my faith
or timid
when I have doubts

No matter
he still greets me
opening himself
to give me healing,
to grant me peace


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

To Hear What Christ Had to Say

To hear what Christ had to say
a challenge to all of us
what we have believed
opening our homes
to all who are in need

Invitations for the outcasts,
the poor and the lame
not for those known
not for those of fortune or fame

Our doors to be open
to the least and the lost
generous with our gifts
all that we have been given
true hospitality
as offered by the Lord


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

True Hospitality

Not those who would repay
returning the blessing
Christ telling them and us
the measure of true hospitality

Sending invitations, welcoming the others
those who were unclean, and in need
those who knew want
who needed the love of their fellow man


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Something Special about the Guest

Something worth remembering
in the action of the stranger
something special about the guest
seeking Christ where he was

Boldly going, entering in
an uninvited guest
seeking healing, wholeness
care from the Lord

In our lives, in our ministry
continuing Christ’s labors
our gifts being given
used for God’s work

Seeing the uniqueness
the needs of each stranger
being open as he was
wherever we find them
sharing the love of God
to all whom we meet


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

An Uninvited Guest

Coming to the Jesus
in the house of another
seeking healing
an uninvited guest
coming to him

Christ responding,
but first questioning,
the structure of their faith
in the cold words alone

Christ healing,
even on the sabbath
bringing wholeness for the stranger
in the place where he was

Giving a lesson
changing their whole world
the rules that they lived by
not nearly enough

God’s love greater
calling us to welcome all those in need
offering ourselves freely
giving help to the stranger,
all who are in need, wherever we find them


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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 Words Not Written

Outside their tradition
the power, the majesty of God’s love
in the words not written

Not merely the words of the law
the commands written down
more than these alone

God’s mercy, his grace
in the spirit of the words
his love come down
revealed in the life of Christ


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Our Faith Much Richer

Through the example of Jesus
his words of challenge
our faith much richer
is we were truly guided by love

Not bound by the words only
going beyond them
seeking out the love of Christ
in all we say and do

Offering real love,
not to those who are friends
strangers, those in need
out into the whole world

Welcoming in the others
those we do not know
giving of our whole selves
holding nothing back


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Hearing Christ’s Words

That we would change radically
hearing Christ’s words
his calling to all of us
to offer hospitality

The richness of his love
to all of God’s children
not to those who can repay
offering, as he did, in sacrifice

Complete, pure, agape love
to the whole world
not just the privileged
giving help, hope to all,
acting in his loving name


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter

&
John 13:33-35
John 13:31-35

&
Matthew 25:31-40
Matthew 25:31-46


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

Inviting the Others

Christ’s commandment
shared in the story of his life
in the words he offered
inviting the others
to our tables, as his servants,
offering our love, in his name
to the whole world, to all
none to be set apart


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter

&
John 13:33-35
John 13:31-35


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

In Desperate Need of Healing

The man in the story
a symbol for so many
all of humanity, really,
in desperate need of healing

Coming to Christ
wherever they may find him
entering in, if we are willing
open to God’s grace
loving all our neighbors
as Christ himself commands


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter

&
John 13:33-35
John 13:31-35


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

The Limits of Their Words

Bound by their words only
that which was written down
not able to go beyond
bound to the ancient law

Christ showing another way
looking within our hearts
feeling the calling of the Lord
offering help to them

Using the spirit in the words
offering a longing hand
being Christ in the world
doing all we can


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Heavenly Mercy

True love revealed
heavenly mercy in his action
stopping what he was doing
to heal the one who came

Christ by his example
the challenge of his questions
making us face our limits
the truth of our inner faith

Seeing the need and meeting it
not bound by ancient rules
going beyond our comfort
in doing what is right

Offering love, and mercy
continuing our master’s work
opening our doors to all
everyone welcomed in


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Joining in Their Song

If we truly listen
with all of our senses
hearing the voices of creation
even the rocks and minerals
all things living
dancing, singing
praises to God

Joining in their song
with one voice, one chorus
in movement and colors
scents and artistry
the dance of creation
singing praises to our king


May 2, 2010
Psalm 148
Psalm 148:1-14

Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 1, 2010

& pastoral prayer
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010


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

Our Beliefs Diminished

Our law, our beliefs diminished
nothing further, nothing more
if the ink on the page
is the sum of our faith

Such was his lesson
there in their presence
while dining in the open
where strangers may enter in

Needing to see through eyes
guided, informed by God’s love
seeing the world truly
offering hope to those in need

Going beyond our comfort
our tradition and our history
giving generously, without reservation
meeting their urgent needs

Not constructed, trapped
by hidebound rules
seeing with the eyes of Jesus
offering all we can


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Earthly Holiness

By their practices,
by their rules,
earthly holiness alone
forgetting God’s love

That which is written down
not the meaning, the power
the gifts between the words
human understanding not enough

Christ revealing, in this story,
God’s love greater
than an article of faith
going beyond, ever, much deeper
offering us life
if we but take his hand


May 2, 2010
Luke 12:1-6, 12-14
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-21
Worship Theme: “Everyone is Invited”
and sermon, “How Good Do You Have to Be?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 2010
Four Sunday After Easter
Fifth Sunday in Easter


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

Joy in Their Song

All of us
here on the earth
in heaven above
joy in their song
joining all of creation
in worship, sweetly,
singing God’s praise


May 2, 2010
Psalm 148
Psalm 148:1-14

Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 1, 2010

& pastoral prayer
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 2, 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 Living or Dying

In living or dying
an offering to the Lord
not for ourselves
to do as we choose
humbly living, dying
unto the Lord alone

He is our focus,
the guide star of our lives
in his living and dying
in his rising
he gave us new birth

Christ, our master,
calls us to follow
gratefully we rise
hearing his voice
following our shepherd
in our living or dying
offering our all
humbly for the Lord


May 2, 2010
Romans 14:7
Romans 14:7-8
Romans 14:1-12

Day 222, “No Man Is an Island”,
in “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 5/2/2010


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

Like a Carpet Unrolling

The new earth descending
like a carpet unrolling
flowing down like God’s robe
filling the temple of old
the whole world
the ladder of heaven
becoming one with the earth

A new garden created
a new Eden restored
fusing earth and heaven
made one in his victory
the holy city, the new Jerusalem
descending from heaven
God and man living as one


May 2, 2010
Revelations 21:1-4
Revelations 21:1-6
Isaiah 6:1-3
Genesis 2:8-10
Genesis 10:17


Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 2, 2010


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

Sweetly Singing

The dance of the new maple leaves
in the morning spring breeze
the violets sweetly singing
in the early long grass
all of creation joining
in praises to the king

Our challenge to stop
to listen, to notice,
to hear their joyous song
joining in on the melody
sharing their song of praise
sweetly singing for our king


May 1, 2010
Psalm 148
Psalm 148:1-14

Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 1, 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 ants in our kitchen

The ants in our kitchen
walking round and round
wondering what to do,
what would E.O. Wilson think?

Sugar ants and carpenters
all finding treats
across the counter
heading for the sink

Little crumbs, drops of Kool-aid
or maybe Hi-C
a splash, a spill
of someone’s last drink

There long before us
the colonies must be quite large
not knowing how to act,
what would E.O. Wilson think?


May 1, 2010
ants in our kitchen
since before this program

&
http://thedianerehmshow.org/shows/2010-04-22/eo-wilson-anthill
E. O. Wilson interview
on Diane Rehm show,
April 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.

Love Each Other

If we are to be known,
seen as his disciples,
if we are to claim
the name children of God

We must love each other
none to be left out
God’s hope for humanity
that all will be saved

Our prayers, our comfort,
our service, our sacrifice
all needing his grace
offered in love


May 2, 2010
1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 Timothy 2:1
1 Timothy 2:1-6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=2&year=2010
for May 2, 2010, read May 2, 2010
“A Call to Pray”,
by Heather Davis

&
John 13:34-35
John 13:31-35

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010,
“Tending to the Holy”,
by Amelia Chua
for May 2, 2010


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

As I Have Loved You

Christ’s command
not that we love one another
Not this alone,
though it would be
hard enough itself

Our command of our savior
on the night before his sacrifice
just as he is choosing
to become the lamb
offered on the altar of the cross

To love one another
as he first loved us
giving himself over
pouring out his life’s blood
paying the ultimate cost

Giving his own life
choosing to be the servant
a sacrifice of love
reconciling the whole world
so that we may see God


May 2, 2010
1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 Timothy 2:1
1 Timothy 2:1-6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=2&year=2010
for May 2, 2010, read May 2, 2010
“A Call to Pray”,
by Heather Davis

&
John 13:34-35
John 13:31-35

and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010,
“Tending to the Holy”,
by Amelia Chua
for May 2, 2010


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

Lifted Up (3 – v2)

All people, everywhere
within our calling
all needing our prayers
because they are hurting

This life difficult
walking this mortal coil
all lifted up
in prayers unto the Lord

That they would know
the depths of your love
redemption, to the father
through the sacrifice of the son


May 2, 2010
1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 Timothy 2:1
1 Timothy 2:1-6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=2&year=2010
for May 2, 2010, read May 2, 2010
“A Call to Pray”,
by Heather Davis


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

Lifted Up (3)

All people, everywhere
within our calling
all needing our prayers
because they are hurting

This life difficult
walking this mortal coil
all lifted up
in prayers unto the Lord


May 2, 2010
1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 Timothy 2:1
1 Timothy 2:1-6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=2&year=2010
for May 2, 2010, read May 2, 2010
“A Call to Pray”,
by Heather Davis


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

Lifting Them Up

My prayers to be unbound
loosed across the earth
all to be prayed for
none to be left out

God’s love, his mercy
poured out at the cross
to redeem us all
at such a mighty cost

Lifting them up
strangers and friends
enemies too
need God’s love as well

All people unworthy
only by his grace made clean
prayers they need
just like you and me


May 2, 2010
1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 Timothy 2:1
1 Timothy 2:1-6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=2&year=2010
for May 2, 2010, read May 2, 2010
“A Call to Pray”,
by Heather Davis


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

All People

God’s call to prayer
those for whom we should pray
for all people on the earth
not for a few, but for all

God’s love greater
broader and wider
wishing all would know him
that all would be saved
through Jesus, his son


May 2, 2010
1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 Timothy 2:1
1 Timothy 2:1-6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=2&year=2010
for May 2, 2010, read May 2, 2010
“A Call to Pray”,
by Heather Davis


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

to your cross

Oh Lord, let me ever be mindful
not the cross, but your cross
that I approach, your cross
that you chose to bear

Following, obedient
faithful to the master’s call
the command of God
the purpose of your life

Come to save
to redeem the whole world
none left out, your prayer that day
asking God to forgive us all
for we know not what we do


May 2, 2010
1 Timothy 2:1-4
1 Timothy 2:1
1 Timothy 2:1-6

&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=2&year=2010
for May 2, 2010, read May 2, 2010
“A Call to Pray”,
by Heather Davis

&
Luke 23:34

&
seeing the title and last line of the poem,
“to the cross”; thinking that it should be,
at least in my thinking, “your cross”

----

to the cross

Always, ever, may we, may I
follow the path of my savior
to the cross, to that moment of servanthood
to his sacrifice, every present,
ever mindful of that awesome moment
the choice he had to make
whether to choose the father’s will
that cup, bitter as it was
sacrifice though without sin
So unlike me, trembling as I am
aware of my sin,
the price I should pay;
but mindful of his choice
to go
to the cross


October 3, 2009
“Savior I come, quiet my soul”,
the Gmail message of Isaac Kiiza Tibasiima
10/3/09
His status was from the first verse of the
Hillsong song,
“Lead Me to the Cross”


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

Trumpets for the Temple

Like trumpets of the Levites
sounding their call
calling at the tent of the meeting
the tulips before the church
swaying in the warming breeze
a chorus, an orchestra
singing their praises to God


May 1, 2010
Psalm 148
Psalm 148:1-14

&
1 Chronicles 16:1-19:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study,
for Saturday, May 1

&
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-26-may-2/
for April 26, 2010 to May 2, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for May 1, 2010


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