Inhaling your love
exhaling a bit of your grace
breathing this prayer
of asking God
to change me
to move me
conforming my life
to the work you would wish
the plan for my life
that I would be
more in your image
my clay remolded
to your purpose, oh Lord
transform me I pray
over and over again
refined in your fire
that I may reflect you
as I walk in this world
July 7, 2010
based on comment about this poem
on posting it to www.christianpoetry.org
July 7, 2010
-------------------
Transform Us
Change our lives Lord
transform our troubled hearts
help us turn from the world
a more humble servant help me be
Change me, father God
may I truly give
the blessings you have shown me
in everything I say and do
A good neighbor to the world
a sheep in your heavenly flock
Change me, holy Christ
from the way of this earth
Guide me, your yoke upon my shoulders
let me walk more closely to thee
Change my heart, gentle Spirit
your word upon my lips
May I care for my neighbors,
in how I humbly live
November 3, 2009
Ecclesiastes 5:8-15
Psalm 15 (Psalter)
& sermon, “Oh For the Simple Life . . .”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
11/1/09
All Saints Day
http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=19864&loc_id=9,612,32,52
Her sermon is the first of a four-part series based in part on
Reverend Adam Hamilton (http://www.cor.org/about-resurrection/adam/)’s book,
“Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity” (http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426702334)
&
and scripture,
“’Not by might nor by power,
but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty”.
Zechariah 4:6, NIV
flyer from Billy Graham Evangelical Association
http://www.billygraham.org
received in the mail today
&
1 Thessalonians 5:17
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
&
Day 281, “Priority of Prayer”, 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 June 30, 2010
&
1 Thessalonians 4:16
1 Thessalonians 5:1
1 Thessalonians 5:18
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
&
Day 280, “Someone is Coming!”, 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 June 29, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Wednesday, July 07, 2010
Giving
he said, work as I did
help the weak
the guiding of the apostle
down to you and me
giving to meet their need
though they were weak
a blessing in the giving
to servants like you and me
July 7, 2010
Acts 20:32-36
Acts 20:35
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=6&year=2010
for July 6, 2010, read July 6, 2010
“A Blessing in Disguise”,
by Kayci Strickland
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
help the weak
the guiding of the apostle
down to you and me
giving to meet their need
though they were weak
a blessing in the giving
to servants like you and me
July 7, 2010
Acts 20:32-36
Acts 20:35
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=6&year=2010
for July 6, 2010, read July 6, 2010
“A Blessing in Disguise”,
by Kayci Strickland
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Earning Heaven
“What must I do?”
the lawyer’s question
to earn life eternal
a seat in God’s courts
at the end of my days
The words already there
if we could achieve them
loving our God utterly
all that we are
and loving even the stranger,
our enemy, as ourselves
That tall order
for the bliss sublime
no man achieved this
that is why he came
that we would be restored
earning heaven by his sacrifice
July 7, 2010
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-july-5-11/
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for July 5, 2010
read July 6, 2010, reread July 7, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the lawyer’s question
to earn life eternal
a seat in God’s courts
at the end of my days
The words already there
if we could achieve them
loving our God utterly
all that we are
and loving even the stranger,
our enemy, as ourselves
That tall order
for the bliss sublime
no man achieved this
that is why he came
that we would be restored
earning heaven by his sacrifice
July 7, 2010
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:1-11, 16-20
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-july-5-11/
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for July 5, 2010
read July 6, 2010, reread July 7, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
We gods
Crying out, in our depths
about injustice, pain
the evil stalking the earth,
the scales unbalanced
unable to change
False measures
unfair to the people
the weak oppressed
crying out to God
But the song deeper
the words they sang
the congregation in the temple
the chosen people of God
God calling to us
to you and to me
“we gods” he created
given dominion over the earth
A lament ringing
a call to action it should be
to change the whole world
resetting the balances
that we would be conformed to thee
July 7, 2010
Psalm 82:1-5
Psalm 82
Psalm 82:1-8
Matthew 21:22
Matthew 25:31-46
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010,
“Are We as Faithful as We Think?”
by Dee Dee Azhikakath
for July 7, 2010,
read July 7, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
about injustice, pain
the evil stalking the earth,
the scales unbalanced
unable to change
False measures
unfair to the people
the weak oppressed
crying out to God
But the song deeper
the words they sang
the congregation in the temple
the chosen people of God
God calling to us
to you and to me
“we gods” he created
given dominion over the earth
A lament ringing
a call to action it should be
to change the whole world
resetting the balances
that we would be conformed to thee
July 7, 2010
Psalm 82:1-5
Psalm 82
Psalm 82:1-8
Matthew 21:22
Matthew 25:31-46
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010,
“Are We as Faithful as We Think?”
by Dee Dee Azhikakath
for July 7, 2010,
read July 7, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
My Pastor, My Wife
Speaking words of authority
teaching us a message from God
revealed to her to share
with us, children of God
Called to be a shepherdess
to guide us, the flock
not to accept the limits
the text a stumbling block
Changing her faith tradition
to follow her savior’s call
stepping out in faith
giving us each her all
Preaching words of power
Sometimes getting a great, “Amen!”
the congregation knowing
the pastor need not be a man
My pastor, my wife
answering, “here I am”
following where she is led
giving God her all
July 7, 2010
1 Timothy 2:11
1 Timothy 2:11-15
1 Corinthians 11:5
Acts 21:9
Romans 16:3
Galatians 3:28
&
Day 288, “Women in the Church”, 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 July 7, 2010
&
response to Ruth’s sermon
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
teaching us a message from God
revealed to her to share
with us, children of God
Called to be a shepherdess
to guide us, the flock
not to accept the limits
the text a stumbling block
Changing her faith tradition
to follow her savior’s call
stepping out in faith
giving us each her all
Preaching words of power
Sometimes getting a great, “Amen!”
the congregation knowing
the pastor need not be a man
My pastor, my wife
answering, “here I am”
following where she is led
giving God her all
July 7, 2010
1 Timothy 2:11
1 Timothy 2:11-15
1 Corinthians 11:5
Acts 21:9
Romans 16:3
Galatians 3:28
&
Day 288, “Women in the Church”, 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 July 7, 2010
&
response to Ruth’s sermon
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Greater than All
Love defines the highest
the greatest of all virtues
for God is love
and love is the Lord
Nothing else compares
nothing else describing
the nature of God
and how we should live
Informed by the example
the abject lesson of Christ
what it means to be loving
in love come to earth
July 6, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:13
“And now these three remain:
faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love.” (NIV)
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the greatest of all virtues
for God is love
and love is the Lord
Nothing else compares
nothing else describing
the nature of God
and how we should live
Informed by the example
the abject lesson of Christ
what it means to be loving
in love come to earth
July 6, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:13
“And now these three remain:
faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love.” (NIV)
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Statements of Purpose
So many statements of purpose
guiding our steps in the word
wisdom for the ages
inspired by you oh Lord
handed down,
if we would believe
July 6, 2010
Proverbs 3:5-7 (NIV)
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the LORD and shun evil.
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
guiding our steps in the word
wisdom for the ages
inspired by you oh Lord
handed down,
if we would believe
July 6, 2010
Proverbs 3:5-7 (NIV)
Trust in the LORD with all your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight.
Do not be wise in your own eyes;
fear the LORD and shun evil.
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Pray - 2
His face in the calmness
solemness of prayer
reverently stilling his mind
so it must be
coming back into dialogue
with our Lord, our savior
with almighty God
The face of Billy Graham
in prayer, almost aloud
in his silence
“Pray.” the caption said
so we should be
ever pouring out our lives
all we are to the Lord
in prayer.
July 6, 2010
and scripture,
“’Not by might nor by power,
but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty”.
Zechariah 4:6, NIV
flyer from Billy Graham Evangelical Association
http://www.billygraham.org
received in the mail today
&
1 Thessalonians 5:17
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
&
Day 281, “Priority of Prayer”, 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 June 30, 2010
&
1 Thessalonians 4:16
1 Thessalonians 5:1
1 Thessalonians 5:18
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
&
Day 280, “Someone is Coming!”, 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 June 29, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
solemness of prayer
reverently stilling his mind
so it must be
coming back into dialogue
with our Lord, our savior
with almighty God
The face of Billy Graham
in prayer, almost aloud
in his silence
“Pray.” the caption said
so we should be
ever pouring out our lives
all we are to the Lord
in prayer.
July 6, 2010
and scripture,
“’Not by might nor by power,
but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty”.
Zechariah 4:6, NIV
flyer from Billy Graham Evangelical Association
http://www.billygraham.org
received in the mail today
&
1 Thessalonians 5:17
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
&
Day 281, “Priority of Prayer”, 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 June 30, 2010
&
1 Thessalonians 4:16
1 Thessalonians 5:1
1 Thessalonians 5:18
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
&
Day 280, “Someone is Coming!”, 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 June 29, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Knowing Our Fetters
God, as Christ,
knowing our fetters
the chains of this life
what it means to be you and me
Descending to walk
as a man
he knows our joys, our sorrows
giving up his divinity
Dying and rising
reconciling us to almighty God
mediating between us
that we may live
in fellowship with him
July 5, 2010
1 Timothy 2:5
1 Timothy 2:1-7
&
Day 287, “Our Mediator”, 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 July 6, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
knowing our fetters
the chains of this life
what it means to be you and me
Descending to walk
as a man
he knows our joys, our sorrows
giving up his divinity
Dying and rising
reconciling us to almighty God
mediating between us
that we may live
in fellowship with him
July 5, 2010
1 Timothy 2:5
1 Timothy 2:1-7
&
Day 287, “Our Mediator”, 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 July 6, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Standing Against the Tides
Speaking when we are called
the truth of the good news
sometimes an uncomfortable message
that they need to hear
Standing against the tides
risking to speak
not saying what is easy
but what God tells us to say
July 6, 2010
Amos 7:10-17
Amos 7:7-17
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010,
“Are We as Faithful as We Think?”
by Dee Dee Azhikakath
for July 6, 2010,
read July 6, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the truth of the good news
sometimes an uncomfortable message
that they need to hear
Standing against the tides
risking to speak
not saying what is easy
but what God tells us to say
July 6, 2010
Amos 7:10-17
Amos 7:7-17
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010,
“Are We as Faithful as We Think?”
by Dee Dee Azhikakath
for July 6, 2010,
read July 6, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Monday, July 05, 2010
Unworthy - 2
Even if we are freed
by the blood of the cross
how unworthy I am
to speak the word of creation
To proclaim, to speak
as if in God’s place
to shout out his words
setting the world on its foundation
drawing the plumb line
starting all the earth
the season into motion
the mountains to rise
and to waters to recede
Unable to muster
the temerity to speak
to claim his words
spoken from my lips
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
&
earlier poem and thoughts about the sermon
and sermon series below
--------------
Presumptuous
Presumptuous
that being made in the image
that being like God
makes us God
like the creator, unbound,
like the limitless God
Such is the meaning
the power, the authority
claimed by man
in the reading of our story
the creation, the origin
the beginning of time
How much lower
is the stuff of man
made by the hand of God
breathed into life
the spirit of God
giving life
to man made of clay
January 14, 2010
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.”
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
by the blood of the cross
how unworthy I am
to speak the word of creation
To proclaim, to speak
as if in God’s place
to shout out his words
setting the world on its foundation
drawing the plumb line
starting all the earth
the season into motion
the mountains to rise
and to waters to recede
Unable to muster
the temerity to speak
to claim his words
spoken from my lips
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
&
earlier poem and thoughts about the sermon
and sermon series below
--------------
Presumptuous
Presumptuous
that being made in the image
that being like God
makes us God
like the creator, unbound,
like the limitless God
Such is the meaning
the power, the authority
claimed by man
in the reading of our story
the creation, the origin
the beginning of time
How much lower
is the stuff of man
made by the hand of God
breathed into life
the spirit of God
giving life
to man made of clay
January 14, 2010
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.”
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Silent I will Stand
Silent I will stand
when the words are read
the words of God
in his creating
The words of the beginning
light from the dark
the days of that week
when all came to be
Somehow I know I must be silent
I cannot say the words
boldly with them
too much for me to do
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
when the words are read
the words of God
in his creating
The words of the beginning
light from the dark
the days of that week
when all came to be
Somehow I know I must be silent
I cannot say the words
boldly with them
too much for me to do
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
He is the Creator
He is the creator
I am the clay
his words I cherish
but never claim to speak
He is so far above me
and I am so weak
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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.
I am the clay
his words I cherish
but never claim to speak
He is so far above me
and I am so weak
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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.
The Words Bolded
Something disquieting
though I cannot fully understand
my concern in this moment
seeing the word bolded
that I am to claim
to speak the words of creation
becoming the voice of God
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
though I cannot fully understand
my concern in this moment
seeing the word bolded
that I am to claim
to speak the words of creation
becoming the voice of God
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
To God
Maybe our perspective too limiting
seeing the father, son, the spirit
or the way, the truth, the life
all ways of seeing the creator,
the maker, the potter,
the breath, the vine,
the savior, the ghost
yet too limited yet
more to God than these
To God, a verb
not just to love, but to God,
to walk in the steps
in the way of Christ
yoked with him
guided in our journey
submitting ourselves fully
utterly turned around
sacrificing, healing
caring for our neighbor
in complete servanthood
going to the cross with him
Not to be God,
to presume far too much;
to see this as a verb
something to live
to God in our life
to share all with others
to build ourselves
upon this rock
to turn toward our maker
and offer ourselves up
all we are, all we will be
to God in our walk
all of our days
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
seeing the father, son, the spirit
or the way, the truth, the life
all ways of seeing the creator,
the maker, the potter,
the breath, the vine,
the savior, the ghost
yet too limited yet
more to God than these
To God, a verb
not just to love, but to God,
to walk in the steps
in the way of Christ
yoked with him
guided in our journey
submitting ourselves fully
utterly turned around
sacrificing, healing
caring for our neighbor
in complete servanthood
going to the cross with him
Not to be God,
to presume far too much;
to see this as a verb
something to live
to God in our life
to share all with others
to build ourselves
upon this rock
to turn toward our maker
and offer ourselves up
all we are, all we will be
to God in our walk
all of our days
July 5, 2010
Isaiah 43:18-21
Genesis 1:1-2:4
(read responsively by the congregation,
speaking the words of God)
Worship Theme: “Church is a verb, not a noun.”
and sermon, “Changing the Dictionary, Changing Lives”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 11, 2010
Seventh Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Deepening My Faith
Measuring my life
the walk of my faith
a plumb line vertical
while I stray right or left
questioning and fearing
unsure, in my doubts
hearing your words
that need to come out
Coming closer to your throne
submitting partially
to what I have been told
answering yes
to your call
but fearing mostly
I have not given my all
Deepening my faith
each passing day
striving to grow nearer
closer to your plan
giving more of me over
all that I am
July 5, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
plumb line
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010,
“Are We as Faithful as We Think?”
by Dee Dee Azhikakath
for July 5, 2010,
read July 5, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the walk of my faith
a plumb line vertical
while I stray right or left
questioning and fearing
unsure, in my doubts
hearing your words
that need to come out
Coming closer to your throne
submitting partially
to what I have been told
answering yes
to your call
but fearing mostly
I have not given my all
Deepening my faith
each passing day
striving to grow nearer
closer to your plan
giving more of me over
all that I am
July 5, 2010
Amos 7:7-9
plumb line
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for July 5, 2010 to July 11, 2010,
“Are We as Faithful as We Think?”
by Dee Dee Azhikakath
for July 5, 2010,
read July 5, 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 19,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Give Me Words to Pray
Lord, in my struggles
trying to be true
focused on your goodness
on your plans for my life
Give me words
to join with the Spirit
prayers to you, oh God
all of my days
Speaking for me
when words will not come
comfort in your grace
in the callings to my heart
Protect me in my trials
strengthen my faith
give me words of your love
for the whole human race
July 5, 2010
Romans 8:18-31
Isaiah 41:12
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=5&year=2010
for July 5, 2010, read July 5, 2010
“Relying on Grace”,
by Ken Franklin
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
trying to be true
focused on your goodness
on your plans for my life
Give me words
to join with the Spirit
prayers to you, oh God
all of my days
Speaking for me
when words will not come
comfort in your grace
in the callings to my heart
Protect me in my trials
strengthen my faith
give me words of your love
for the whole human race
July 5, 2010
Romans 8:18-31
Isaiah 41:12
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=5&year=2010
for July 5, 2010, read July 5, 2010
“Relying on Grace”,
by Ken Franklin
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
God’s kingdom, come
In all of my words
in my prayers
some without words
Calling to you
from here on the earth
that your kingdom would come
That we would walk more surely
in the grace you gave
that we would believe
and act is if Christ came
Our hearts to your service
yet our hands are trembling
giving of faith enough Lord
that we would usher in
God’s kingdom, come
spread the word to all
he is preparing the chariots
the wings of the clouds await
his harvest, let it come
July 5, 2010
last line of poem written yesterday,
July 4, 2010
--------
Loving the Other Sheep
All of us the other sheep
yet all of the one flock
none better or worse
all of us children of God
Who are we to judge
who may enter in
if we walk through the door of Christ
lush meadows are for us all
Loving the other sheep
our neighbors and friends
all may enter in
to God’s kingdom, come
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
in my prayers
some without words
Calling to you
from here on the earth
that your kingdom would come
That we would walk more surely
in the grace you gave
that we would believe
and act is if Christ came
Our hearts to your service
yet our hands are trembling
giving of faith enough Lord
that we would usher in
God’s kingdom, come
spread the word to all
he is preparing the chariots
the wings of the clouds await
his harvest, let it come
July 5, 2010
last line of poem written yesterday,
July 4, 2010
--------
Loving the Other Sheep
All of us the other sheep
yet all of the one flock
none better or worse
all of us children of God
Who are we to judge
who may enter in
if we walk through the door of Christ
lush meadows are for us all
Loving the other sheep
our neighbors and friends
all may enter in
to God’s kingdom, come
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Fight the Good Fight
All of us charged
commissioned, anointed
tasked to fight
lest the enemy win
To fight for Christ
that all would know him
our shoulder to the wheel
our hands to the plow
Picking up our cross, our yoke
our piece of his work
sharing God’s love
so all will hear
Sowing seeds
that they may grow
the soil of hearts
a harvest to behold
July 5, 2010
1 Timothy 1:18
1 Timothy 1:18-20
&
Day 286, “Fight the Good Fight”, 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 July 5, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
commissioned, anointed
tasked to fight
lest the enemy win
To fight for Christ
that all would know him
our shoulder to the wheel
our hands to the plow
Picking up our cross, our yoke
our piece of his work
sharing God’s love
so all will hear
Sowing seeds
that they may grow
the soil of hearts
a harvest to behold
July 5, 2010
1 Timothy 1:18
1 Timothy 1:18-20
&
Day 286, “Fight the Good Fight”, 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 July 5, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
The Ribbons of Salmon
As we listened to the songs
the easy flow of banter on the lawn
dancing, running children
finding friends, new ones too
enjoying the fellowship
a community
Bands of orange over the clouds
their shapes darkening from gray-white
to deepening slate, to plumb
the streaks becoming salmon ribbons
brushed, fading sunset
coursed across the sky
The underside of the batting
the quilt of the night
descending over us
before the fireworks
ushered in by the dark
July 4, 2010
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the easy flow of banter on the lawn
dancing, running children
finding friends, new ones too
enjoying the fellowship
a community
Bands of orange over the clouds
their shapes darkening from gray-white
to deepening slate, to plumb
the streaks becoming salmon ribbons
brushed, fading sunset
coursed across the sky
The underside of the batting
the quilt of the night
descending over us
before the fireworks
ushered in by the dark
July 4, 2010
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Sermon - "The Cost of Freedom . . . ”, by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, July 4, 2010, Suncook United Methodist Church, Suncook, NH
Pastor Ruth Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14 NIV Translation
John 8:36 NIV Translation
“The Cost of Freedom…”
Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore,
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me;
I lift my lamp beside the golden door.
(The Inscription on the Statue of Liberty, written by Emma Lazarus)
The Lord be with you
And also with you
Let us pray…
God of freedom and right, we thank you for this day that we have the freedom to worship you in your temple. Thank you for those who have fought for our freedom and still continue today. We especially thank you for the freedom from sin and death which we receive through your Son, Lord Jesus Christ. May your Spirit fall down upon us as we hear the word you have for us this day. May your word be heard through me or in spite of me. Speak Lord.. . Your beloved servants are listening.
Well. . . it’s the 4th of July and we are celebrating our freedom . . . the freedom from the tyranny that our forefathers experienced from England and the declaration that was signed that mapped out that new found freedom. We celebrate with those who have come to our country to seek asylum and freedom from the oppression that they once experience at the hands of oppressive rulers. We celebrate with those who have now found a home that they can be free to be what they want to be and not what others claim they have to be. Freedom. . . .What a concept! What a gift from those who have gone before us and for those who are still yet to come. But. . .This freedom we enjoy. . . Well. . . It was given at a cost. . .A price that people are still willing to pay. . .A price that, for some, have cost them their lives.
When I think about what freedom is and how priceless it is I am reminded of a commercial, it is either by Master Card or Visa. It talks about how things are priceless. Have any of you seen this commercial? IT talks about one thing, gives a price, then talks about another and gives the price but the last thing they talk about they say “priceless”. Our freedom is so priceless but I see all around me people who either take that freedom for granted or abuse that freedom which was fought for so long ago. We see oppression, greed and envy all around us. We see people abusing “the system”, people who don’t care that they are oppressing others all for the “god almighty dollar” and the like. How can something so precious be changed into something that only takes away others freedom? This. . .I will never understand.
There is another freedom that I think of on the 4th that is even more precious to me than the freedom of living here in the United States. . .It’s a freedom that was bought with the high price of human life. It is a freedom that cannot be borrowed or stolen. It is a freedom that truly sets me free. It’s the freedom that can be found at Calvary’s Cross. It is at the foot of the cross where we can come and be set free. It is through the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ and John 8:36 tells us “if the Son sets us free. . .we are free indeed!” We are free to come to the Throne of Grace and lay our troubles and trials down and be set free. We are free to make our own choices, mistakes and by the blood of the Lamb be redeemed.
This freedom cost our High Priest His life but it is freedom that comes at no monetary cost to us. The bill has been stamped PAID. . .the note has been torn up. . .we are free to choose or not to choose this free gift from or Loving God who loved the world so much that He sent his only son to die for our sins. . .the lamb that was unblemished was slain for those who were. . .and still are…blemished but are wash in His blood. The only thing that is asked is that we would just “Take up our cross and follow Him”.
This truth reminds me a little of the story of Naaman that is found in 2 Kings 5:1-14. It reads and I’m reading from the New Living Translation):
The Healing of Naaman
1 The king of Aram had great admiration for Naaman, the commander of his army, because through him the Lord had given Aram great victories. But though Naaman was a mighty warrior, he suffered from leprosy. 2 At this time Aramean raiders had invaded the land of Israel, and among their captives was a young girl who had been given to Naaman’s wife as a maid. 3 One day the girl said to her mistress, “I wish my master would go to see the prophet in Samaria. He would heal him of his leprosy.”
4 So Naaman told the king what the young girl from Israel had said. 5 “Go and visit the prophet,” the king of Aram told him. “I will send a letter of introduction for you to take to the king of Israel.” So Naaman started out, carrying as gifts 750 pounds of silver, 150 pounds of gold, and ten sets of clothing. 6 The letter to the king of Israel said: “With this letter I present my servant Naaman. I want you to heal him of his leprosy.” 7 When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes in dismay and said, “This man sends me a leper to heal! Am I God, that I can give life and take it away? I can see that he’s just trying to pick a fight with me.”8 But when Elisha, the man of God, heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes in dismay, he sent this message to him: “Why are you so upset? Send Naaman to me, and he will learn that there is a true prophet here in Israel.” 9 So Naaman went with his horses and chariots and waited at the door of Elisha’s house. 10 But Elisha sent a messenger out to him with this message: “Go and wash yourself seven times in the Jordan River. Then your skin will be restored, and you will be healed of your leprosy.” 11 But Naaman became angry and stalked away. “I thought he would certainly come out to meet me!” he said. “I expected him to wave his hand over the leprosy and call on the name of the Lord his God and heal me! 12 Aren’t the rivers of Damascus, the Abana and the Pharpar, better than any of the rivers of Israel? Why shouldn’t I wash in them and be healed?” So Naaman turned and went away in a rage. 13 But his officers tried to reason with him and said, “Sir, if the prophet had told you to do something very difficult, wouldn’t you have done it? So you should certainly obey him when he says simply, ‘Go and wash and be cured!’” 14 So Naaman went down to the Jordan River and dipped himself seven times, as the man of God had instructed him. And his skin became as healthy as the skin of a young child’s, and he was healed!
Naaman almost missed out on a healing just because he thought that it was too easy, that what was asked of him just couldn’t be this simple, there must be something more. We too sometimes think that what we are asked to do is too simple, it can’t make a difference, and that there must be some hidden cost. . .some hidden agenda that will show itself in time. But because he humbled himself and followed the instruction, he received healing and wholeness.
Beloved. . .do not be fooled by the way that the world thinks but be transformed by the way the Spirit causes us to think. All that is asked is that we come before the cross, admit that we can’t be righteous on our own, accept the Lord as our savior and be redeemed.
It’s the 4th of July and each year we set apart this day to celebrate our freedom and the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we celebrate with barbeques, family, fireworks and such. . .the freedoms we received and still to this day receive because of those who continue to fight for freedom. But there is also another freedom that we receive and it begins with our baptism. We receive independence from the cost of sin and death but we become dependent on the cross of our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. So I am here to say “”Happy Dependence Day”. But I leave you with some questions to ponder:
• Is there a part of you that needs to be set on the altar?
• Is there a part of you that still is something that holds you bondage that stops you from receiving the freedom that was bought for you so long ago?
• Is there a part of you that needs healing and wholeness?
My invitation to you today is to leave it at the foot of the Throne of Grace and embrace the freedom that is offered to you and me. You see. . .If the Son sets you free. . .you are free indeed!
Amen
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14 NIV Translation
John 8:36 NIV Translation
“The Cost of Freedom…”
Give me your tired, your poor,
Your huddled masses yearning to breathe free,
The wretched refuse of your teeming shore,
Send these, the homeless, tempest-tossed, to me;
I lift my lamp beside the golden door.
(The Inscription on the Statue of Liberty, written by Emma Lazarus)
The Lord be with you
And also with you
Let us pray…
God of freedom and right, we thank you for this day that we have the freedom to worship you in your temple. Thank you for those who have fought for our freedom and still continue today. We especially thank you for the freedom from sin and death which we receive through your Son, Lord Jesus Christ. May your Spirit fall down upon us as we hear the word you have for us this day. May your word be heard through me or in spite of me. Speak Lord.. . Your beloved servants are listening.
Well. . . it’s the 4th of July and we are celebrating our freedom . . . the freedom from the tyranny that our forefathers experienced from England and the declaration that was signed that mapped out that new found freedom. We celebrate with those who have come to our country to seek asylum and freedom from the oppression that they once experience at the hands of oppressive rulers. We celebrate with those who have now found a home that they can be free to be what they want to be and not what others claim they have to be. Freedom. . . .What a concept! What a gift from those who have gone before us and for those who are still yet to come. But. . .This freedom we enjoy. . . Well. . . It was given at a cost. . .A price that people are still willing to pay. . .A price that, for some, have cost them their lives.
When I think about what freedom is and how priceless it is I am reminded of a commercial, it is either by Master Card or Visa. It talks about how things are priceless. Have any of you seen this commercial? IT talks about one thing, gives a price, then talks about another and gives the price but the last thing they talk about they say “priceless”. Our freedom is so priceless but I see all around me people who either take that freedom for granted or abuse that freedom which was fought for so long ago. We see oppression, greed and envy all around us. We see people abusing “the system”, people who don’t care that they are oppressing others all for the “god almighty dollar” and the like. How can something so precious be changed into something that only takes away others freedom? This. . .I will never understand.
There is another freedom that I think of on the 4th that is even more precious to me than the freedom of living here in the United States. . .It’s a freedom that was bought with the high price of human life. It is a freedom that cannot be borrowed or stolen. It is a freedom that truly sets me free. It’s the freedom that can be found at Calvary’s Cross. It is at the foot of the cross where we can come and be set free. It is through the blood of our Lord Jesus Christ and John 8:36 tells us “if the Son sets us free. . .we are free indeed!” We are free to come to the Throne of Grace and lay our troubles and trials down and be set free. We are free to make our own choices, mistakes and by the blood of the Lamb be redeemed.
This freedom cost our High Priest His life but it is freedom that comes at no monetary cost to us. The bill has been stamped PAID. . .the note has been torn up. . .we are free to choose or not to choose this free gift from or Loving God who loved the world so much that He sent his only son to die for our sins. . .the lamb that was unblemished was slain for those who were. . .and still are…blemished but are wash in His blood. The only thing that is asked is that we would just “Take up our cross and follow Him”.
This truth reminds me a little of the story of Naaman that is found in 2 Kings 5:1-14. It reads and I’m reading from the New Living Translation):
The Healing of Naaman
1 The king of Aram had great admiration for Naaman, the commander of his army, because through him the Lord had given Aram great victories. But though Naaman was a mighty warrior, he suffered from leprosy. 2 At this time Aramean raiders had invaded the land of Israel, and among their captives was a young girl who had been given to Naaman’s wife as a maid. 3 One day the girl said to her mistress, “I wish my master would go to see the prophet in Samaria. He would heal him of his leprosy.”
4 So Naaman told the king what the young girl from Israel had said. 5 “Go and visit the prophet,” the king of Aram told him. “I will send a letter of introduction for you to take to the king of Israel.” So Naaman started out, carrying as gifts 750 pounds of silver, 150 pounds of gold, and ten sets of clothing. 6 The letter to the king of Israel said: “With this letter I present my servant Naaman. I want you to heal him of his leprosy.” 7 When the king of Israel read the letter, he tore his clothes in dismay and said, “This man sends me a leper to heal! Am I God, that I can give life and take it away? I can see that he’s just trying to pick a fight with me.”8 But when Elisha, the man of God, heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes in dismay, he sent this message to him: “Why are you so upset? Send Naaman to me, and he will learn that there is a true prophet here in Israel.” 9 So Naaman went with his horses and chariots and waited at the door of Elisha’s house. 10 But Elisha sent a messenger out to him with this message: “Go and wash yourself seven times in the Jordan River. Then your skin will be restored, and you will be healed of your leprosy.” 11 But Naaman became angry and stalked away. “I thought he would certainly come out to meet me!” he said. “I expected him to wave his hand over the leprosy and call on the name of the Lord his God and heal me! 12 Aren’t the rivers of Damascus, the Abana and the Pharpar, better than any of the rivers of Israel? Why shouldn’t I wash in them and be healed?” So Naaman turned and went away in a rage. 13 But his officers tried to reason with him and said, “Sir, if the prophet had told you to do something very difficult, wouldn’t you have done it? So you should certainly obey him when he says simply, ‘Go and wash and be cured!’” 14 So Naaman went down to the Jordan River and dipped himself seven times, as the man of God had instructed him. And his skin became as healthy as the skin of a young child’s, and he was healed!
Naaman almost missed out on a healing just because he thought that it was too easy, that what was asked of him just couldn’t be this simple, there must be something more. We too sometimes think that what we are asked to do is too simple, it can’t make a difference, and that there must be some hidden cost. . .some hidden agenda that will show itself in time. But because he humbled himself and followed the instruction, he received healing and wholeness.
Beloved. . .do not be fooled by the way that the world thinks but be transformed by the way the Spirit causes us to think. All that is asked is that we come before the cross, admit that we can’t be righteous on our own, accept the Lord as our savior and be redeemed.
It’s the 4th of July and each year we set apart this day to celebrate our freedom and the signing of the Declaration of Independence, we celebrate with barbeques, family, fireworks and such. . .the freedoms we received and still to this day receive because of those who continue to fight for freedom. But there is also another freedom that we receive and it begins with our baptism. We receive independence from the cost of sin and death but we become dependent on the cross of our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. So I am here to say “”Happy Dependence Day”. But I leave you with some questions to ponder:
• Is there a part of you that needs to be set on the altar?
• Is there a part of you that still is something that holds you bondage that stops you from receiving the freedom that was bought for you so long ago?
• Is there a part of you that needs healing and wholeness?
My invitation to you today is to leave it at the foot of the Throne of Grace and embrace the freedom that is offered to you and me. You see. . .If the Son sets you free. . .you are free indeed!
Amen
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blogSuncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,280+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Say Yes to Christ
Embrace our freedom
say yes to Christ
admitting we need to be saved
turning from the world
all of our days
conforming our walk to him
Fall into the waters
of your endless grace
rise reborn, alive
standing on the hope
in your love revealed
working in our time
that more would believe
oh let your kingdom come
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
say yes to Christ
admitting we need to be saved
turning from the world
all of our days
conforming our walk to him
Fall into the waters
of your endless grace
rise reborn, alive
standing on the hope
in your love revealed
working in our time
that more would believe
oh let your kingdom come
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Contemplating Grace
Maybe like Naaman
putting a stumbling block
an additional hurdle, a burden
where there is love
Contemplating grace
more to be done
too easy to wash in the waters
that the price already was paid
Seeming that there is more to do
somehow to earn God’s love
thinking too much
when we should just believe
The price already paid
stamped paid in full
only to die with Christ
that we may rise with him
To come before the cross,
admit our unworthiness
that we can’t be
righteous alone
Needing the gift,
of God’s grace
accepting Christ as our savior
and to be redeemed
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
putting a stumbling block
an additional hurdle, a burden
where there is love
Contemplating grace
more to be done
too easy to wash in the waters
that the price already was paid
Seeming that there is more to do
somehow to earn God’s love
thinking too much
when we should just believe
The price already paid
stamped paid in full
only to die with Christ
that we may rise with him
To come before the cross,
admit our unworthiness
that we can’t be
righteous alone
Needing the gift,
of God’s grace
accepting Christ as our savior
and to be redeemed
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
At the Foot of His Throne
Leaving my baggage
freed from my bondage
leaving it at the foot of his throne
laying these down before the Lord
that I may be restored
Letting go of the part
that part of me that is not free
the things that are holding me back
giving these over to him
that I may be made whole
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
freed from my bondage
leaving it at the foot of his throne
laying these down before the Lord
that I may be restored
Letting go of the part
that part of me that is not free
the things that are holding me back
giving these over to him
that I may be made whole
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
at the foot of the Throne of Grace
We must cleave to his cross
to the yoke of Christ
letting go of the rest
leaving it at the cross
at the foot of the Throne of Grace
laying our cares down
that which keeps us in bondage
keeping us estranged from God
Laying these down
letting go of the shackles, the snares
freed to follow Christ
wherever he may lead
Spreading his message of love
that all may be restored
that all may join us
under his yoke
that all may be made whole
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
to the yoke of Christ
letting go of the rest
leaving it at the cross
at the foot of the Throne of Grace
laying our cares down
that which keeps us in bondage
keeping us estranged from God
Laying these down
letting go of the shackles, the snares
freed to follow Christ
wherever he may lead
Spreading his message of love
that all may be restored
that all may join us
under his yoke
that all may be made whole
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Dependent on the Cross
Wandering like the prodigal
needing to ponder the star
dependent on the cross of Christ
to lead us home to God
He has done the more costly part
going to the cross
freeing us from death and sin
bearing the awful price
Yet we are dependent
in our freedom to walk
needing to turn to him
to let him enter in
Dependent on the cross
not to the world
sharing in his ministry
leading us home to God
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
needing to ponder the star
dependent on the cross of Christ
to lead us home to God
He has done the more costly part
going to the cross
freeing us from death and sin
bearing the awful price
Yet we are dependent
in our freedom to walk
needing to turn to him
to let him enter in
Dependent on the cross
not to the world
sharing in his ministry
leading us home to God
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Dependent on Your Cross
Never may I lose sight
the importance of this moment
our freedom’s cost
dependent on your cross
for life anew
life with you, oh Lord
Redeemed by your blood
by your sacrifice for me
setting me free
to cleave to your cross
yoked with my savior
sharing my gifts, your love
leading me to God
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the importance of this moment
our freedom’s cost
dependent on your cross
for life anew
life with you, oh Lord
Redeemed by your blood
by your sacrifice for me
setting me free
to cleave to your cross
yoked with my savior
sharing my gifts, your love
leading me to God
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Free to Serve You
Out of this land
out of your great blessing
the abundance that we share
the freedoms we cherish
free to serve you
our hearts unbound
from human troubles
by the lamb of God
Pursuing blessedness
happiness not of the world
joy in our spirits instead
deeper, richer
blessedness of his sermon
his teachings on high
the words of Christ
who lived and died
who went to the cross for us
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
out of your great blessing
the abundance that we share
the freedoms we cherish
free to serve you
our hearts unbound
from human troubles
by the lamb of God
Pursuing blessedness
happiness not of the world
joy in our spirits instead
deeper, richer
blessedness of his sermon
his teachings on high
the words of Christ
who lived and died
who went to the cross for us
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Free to be Yoked with You
Our choice, in our freedom,
by the cost of the cross
giving us life
eternal life, if we but believe
Free to choose the world
or free to be yoked with you
to share in the work
to build up the kingdom
Our choice, in the world
freed by Christ
to choose the pit
or to choose life
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
by the cost of the cross
giving us life
eternal life, if we but believe
Free to choose the world
or free to be yoked with you
to share in the work
to build up the kingdom
Our choice, in the world
freed by Christ
to choose the pit
or to choose life
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Oppression Still
Around the world
oppression still
that we have shaken off
yet stalking the world
a cloud, darkness
still to be condemned
still needing our voice
We, in this place,
this land of opportunity
a responsibility
out of our freedom
our joy in pursuing
happiness in our lives
to speak out
to stand up against injustice
our job, to fight oppression still
to the ends of the earth
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
oppression still
that we have shaken off
yet stalking the world
a cloud, darkness
still to be condemned
still needing our voice
We, in this place,
this land of opportunity
a responsibility
out of our freedom
our joy in pursuing
happiness in our lives
to speak out
to stand up against injustice
our job, to fight oppression still
to the ends of the earth
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Freedom, at Calvary’s Cross
Through the blood
of the son
Freedom, all of our days
freedom, at Calvary’s cross
by his price, what he paid
the lamb upon that cross
Only to take up our cross
to do his loving work
to use of gifts as we are called
following Christ, his steps
to be his witness, his messengers
out into the world
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
of the son
Freedom, all of our days
freedom, at Calvary’s cross
by his price, what he paid
the lamb upon that cross
Only to take up our cross
to do his loving work
to use of gifts as we are called
following Christ, his steps
to be his witness, his messengers
out into the world
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Only to Wash in Those Waters
In the blood of the lamb
only to wash in those waters
the living waters of Christ
to accept his awesome gift
Paid already for me
only to fall into those waters
to rise reborn
transformed in that moment
Humbled before God
guided by him
walking with the Lord
all the rest of our days
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
only to wash in those waters
the living waters of Christ
to accept his awesome gift
Paid already for me
only to fall into those waters
to rise reborn
transformed in that moment
Humbled before God
guided by him
walking with the Lord
all the rest of our days
July 4, 2010
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Saving a Murderer
Christ came to save
the world, all of us sinners
the whole human race
Saving a sinner like Paul
a murderer of the faith
becoming a witness for him
His testimony reminding us
the depth of God’s love
healing him utterly
the one who bore the cross
Serving as Paul did
to such we are called
that all would know
the grace of God
who saved a sinner like me
July 4, 2010
1 Timothy 1:15
1 Timothy 1:15-17
&
Day 285, “The Central Miracle”, 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 July 4, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the world, all of us sinners
the whole human race
Saving a sinner like Paul
a murderer of the faith
becoming a witness for him
His testimony reminding us
the depth of God’s love
healing him utterly
the one who bore the cross
Serving as Paul did
to such we are called
that all would know
the grace of God
who saved a sinner like me
July 4, 2010
1 Timothy 1:15
1 Timothy 1:15-17
&
Day 285, “The Central Miracle”, 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 July 4, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Came into the World
The words of Paul
declaring clearly
the choice of Christ
to descend, to become a man
Christ eternal
alive before time
“came into the world”
to say you and me
Taking off the mantle
the crown of his divinity
emptied of power
to humbly walk the earth
Came into the world
humbly, as a child
anointed in servanthood
to drink the cup of sorrow
Choosing to come
descended from above
to the cross he went
choosing to sacrifice
that we would live
July 4, 2010
1 Timothy 1:15
1 Timothy 1:15-17
&
Day 285, “The Central Miracle”, 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 July 4, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
declaring clearly
the choice of Christ
to descend, to become a man
Christ eternal
alive before time
“came into the world”
to say you and me
Taking off the mantle
the crown of his divinity
emptied of power
to humbly walk the earth
Came into the world
humbly, as a child
anointed in servanthood
to drink the cup of sorrow
Choosing to come
descended from above
to the cross he went
choosing to sacrifice
that we would live
July 4, 2010
1 Timothy 1:15
1 Timothy 1:15-17
&
Day 285, “The Central Miracle”, 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 July 4, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
The Door
Christ the door, the gate
the way to enter in
knock and he will open
that we all may be saved
entering in the courts of God
into the flock, the family
together in the Lord
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
&
John 10:9
John 10:1-18
John 14:6
John 14:1-31
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the way to enter in
knock and he will open
that we all may be saved
entering in the courts of God
into the flock, the family
together in the Lord
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
&
John 10:9
John 10:1-18
John 14:6
John 14:1-31
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Loving the Other Sheep
All of us the other sheep
yet all of the one flock
none better or worse
all of us children of God
Who are we to judge
who may enter in
if we walk through the door of Christ
lush meadows are for us all
Loving the other sheep
our neighbors and friends
all may enter in
to God’s kingdom, come
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
yet all of the one flock
none better or worse
all of us children of God
Who are we to judge
who may enter in
if we walk through the door of Christ
lush meadows are for us all
Loving the other sheep
our neighbors and friends
all may enter in
to God’s kingdom, come
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Just As We Are
A collection of other sheep
some near and some far
Christ calling to us
to come, just as we are
All of us gathered in
through the gate of Christ
entering into God’s embrace
believing is the price
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
some near and some far
Christ calling to us
to come, just as we are
All of us gathered in
through the gate of Christ
entering into God’s embrace
believing is the price
July 4, 2010
John 10:7-16
John 10:16
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=4&year=2010
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
“The Good Shepherd”,
by Betty Madill
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
The Responsibility of Freedom
Not beholden to a human king
able to walk free
in this land we love
hope in the creed we profess
that all may have life,
liberty, seeking our happiness
The responsibility of our freedom
paid at an awful cost
to see to live out our dreams
in civic holiness
to treat our neighbors
as we promised in those words
the petition of our liberty
that we believe today
If all are to be equal
under our one God
needing to remember these words
and those longer ago
Christ climbing that mountain
read to speak
words of power
defining true happiness
Blessed are we when we stop
remember that all are equal
in the eyes of God
that happiness comes
in loving one another
together walking with God
for there is no other
our rock and our redeemer
on these words we stand
one nation together
July 4, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-june-28%e2%80%94july-4/
for June 28, 2010 to July 4, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
&
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
able to walk free
in this land we love
hope in the creed we profess
that all may have life,
liberty, seeking our happiness
The responsibility of our freedom
paid at an awful cost
to see to live out our dreams
in civic holiness
to treat our neighbors
as we promised in those words
the petition of our liberty
that we believe today
If all are to be equal
under our one God
needing to remember these words
and those longer ago
Christ climbing that mountain
read to speak
words of power
defining true happiness
Blessed are we when we stop
remember that all are equal
in the eyes of God
that happiness comes
in loving one another
together walking with God
for there is no other
our rock and our redeemer
on these words we stand
one nation together
July 4, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-june-28%e2%80%94july-4/
for June 28, 2010 to July 4, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
&
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
&
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
The Yoke of Rome
The independence from Rome
through off the yoke of Caesar
the king of England
would oppress us no more
Declaring our freedom
our trust in God
seeking our happiness
life and liberty
unencumbered by tyranny
breathing free
A new covenant
a contract of men
not to a king but ourselves
ever to be true
joined together
that all would be free
out from under
the yoke of Rome
to walk in liberty
July 4, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-june-28%e2%80%94july-4/
for June 28, 2010 to July 4, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
&
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
through off the yoke of Caesar
the king of England
would oppress us no more
Declaring our freedom
our trust in God
seeking our happiness
life and liberty
unencumbered by tyranny
breathing free
A new covenant
a contract of men
not to a king but ourselves
ever to be true
joined together
that all would be free
out from under
the yoke of Rome
to walk in liberty
July 4, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-june-28%e2%80%94july-4/
for June 28, 2010 to July 4, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for July 4, 2010, read July 4, 2010
&
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
Sixth Sunday after Pentecost
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
A Christian Manifesto
If viewed through the lens
of history, of power
England as Rome
we are the people
the oppressed under their feet
If we read the words
liberty as freedom
freed from the law
of sin and death
freed to walk with God
Life as life eternal
never more shackled
fettered by our bodies
made of earth, of clay
If we see blessedness
in the way of the beatitudes
the pursuit of happiness
its true meaning
to the ends of the earth
Our declaration
independence from tyranny
but dependence to our creator
servants of his plan
of blessedness for the world
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
of history, of power
England as Rome
we are the people
the oppressed under their feet
If we read the words
liberty as freedom
freed from the law
of sin and death
freed to walk with God
Life as life eternal
never more shackled
fettered by our bodies
made of earth, of clay
If we see blessedness
in the way of the beatitudes
the pursuit of happiness
its true meaning
to the ends of the earth
Our declaration
independence from tyranny
but dependence to our creator
servants of his plan
of blessedness for the world
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved.
Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 30,940+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
The Pursuit of True Happiness
In the ancient words of our Lord
the pursuit of true happiness
the creed of our land
to walk with you oh Lord
Happiness is blessedness
not in the way of the world
listening to the shocking words of Christ
turning to our neighbor instead
Love leads us differently
away from power or might
humbleness in our walk
seeking God for life
Knowing he sacrificed
paid our debt for us
hope in the coming of Christ
to bring us home to him
Sharing the good news of love
God’s grace overflowing
offering hope to all those in need
in this we are redeemed
Believing enough to turn from the world
to pursuit true happiness
blessedness for the whole world
if we live out his words
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the pursuit of true happiness
the creed of our land
to walk with you oh Lord
Happiness is blessedness
not in the way of the world
listening to the shocking words of Christ
turning to our neighbor instead
Love leads us differently
away from power or might
humbleness in our walk
seeking God for life
Knowing he sacrificed
paid our debt for us
hope in the coming of Christ
to bring us home to him
Sharing the good news of love
God’s grace overflowing
offering hope to all those in need
in this we are redeemed
Believing enough to turn from the world
to pursuit true happiness
blessedness for the whole world
if we live out his words
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
The Pursuit of Blessedness
In the words of Christ
the kernel of our hope
what we believe
seeking happiness
the pursuit of blessedness
unfettered by man
able to seek your face
Our declaration
out from under the yoke of Rome
seeking to live the beatitudes
wherever we may roam
Not a blind ambition
seeking power or might
ever as a people
seeking to do the right
The pursuit of blessedness
of happiness in you
humbly, as the words of Christ
turning from the world
speaking to the hearts of men
that all would know you Lord
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the kernel of our hope
what we believe
seeking happiness
the pursuit of blessedness
unfettered by man
able to seek your face
Our declaration
out from under the yoke of Rome
seeking to live the beatitudes
wherever we may roam
Not a blind ambition
seeking power or might
ever as a people
seeking to do the right
The pursuit of blessedness
of happiness in you
humbly, as the words of Christ
turning from the world
speaking to the hearts of men
that all would know you Lord
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Seeking Your Joy
Stuck in our night
sorrow in our place
needing your light
your amazing grace
Seeking your joy
the morning of your love
washing away our tears
with your endless grace
July 4, 2010
Psalm 30:4-5
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for June 28, 2010 to July 4, 2010,
“Doing the Right Thing”
by Chip Hale
for July 4, 2010
read July 4, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
sorrow in our place
needing your light
your amazing grace
Seeking your joy
the morning of your love
washing away our tears
with your endless grace
July 4, 2010
Psalm 30:4-5
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for June 28, 2010 to July 4, 2010,
“Doing the Right Thing”
by Chip Hale
for July 4, 2010
read July 4, 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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Christ gave us Freedom
Our freedoms which we values
life and liberty
seeking our own path
what we want to be
bound to our nation
believing our common creed
failing to be mindful
that Christ gave us freedom
more important than all others
paying a horrible cost
not just in going to the cross
but descending to earth at all
emptied of his divinity
though he knew
the price he would have to pay
to free us from sin and death
to give us true liberty
life and liberty
seeking our own path
what we want to be
bound to our nation
believing our common creed
failing to be mindful
that Christ gave us freedom
more important than all others
paying a horrible cost
not just in going to the cross
but descending to earth at all
emptied of his divinity
though he knew
the price he would have to pay
to free us from sin and death
to give us true liberty
edited January 31, 2015
Christ gave us Freedom – v4
(editing version 3)
edited July 8, 2014
Christ gave us Freedom – v3
edited July 4, 2014
Christ gave us Freedom – v2
July 4, 2010
Christ gave us Freedom
2 Kings 5:1-14
Psalm 30
Luke 10:16-20
Galatians 6:7-10
Psalm 36:5-10 (United Methodist Hymnal #771)
Worship Theme: “The
high cost of freedom”
and sermon, “The
Cost of Freedom”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
sermon
blog
meditation
blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
July 4, 2010
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 35,600+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Shocking Us
The deliberate inversion
of the standard order
whom Christ defined as blessed, happy
cursed, shunned now
in society
Shocking us
forcing us to reconsider
stopping to read the words
how we live, in our freedom
as Christ’s followers
claiming his kinship
as children of God
Do we measure up
are we faithful
able to claim these blessings
in our nation
on this day of our freedom
flinging off the yoke of oppression
taking on the mantle of these
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
of the standard order
whom Christ defined as blessed, happy
cursed, shunned now
in society
Shocking us
forcing us to reconsider
stopping to read the words
how we live, in our freedom
as Christ’s followers
claiming his kinship
as children of God
Do we measure up
are we faithful
able to claim these blessings
in our nation
on this day of our freedom
flinging off the yoke of oppression
taking on the mantle of these
July 4, 2010
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service, you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
http://www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
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 19,300+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Saturday, July 03, 2010
Not to be praised but ridiculed
We are called
out of our comfort
out of the pews, the boats
to walk where he calls us
leaving our wealth
of station, our power
called to blessedness
Not to be praised
to be held up among men
but to be ridiculed and scorned
to be held in their dread
speaking out, standing our ground
servants of the Lord only,
in this blessing is found
A badge of honor
treasure in our future
in the storerooms of his courts
blessing beyond measure
in standing at the cross
lifting up our calling
and going into the world
out of our comfort
out of the pews, the boats
to walk where he calls us
leaving our wealth
of station, our power
called to blessedness
Not to be praised
to be held up among men
but to be ridiculed and scorned
to be held in their dread
speaking out, standing our ground
servants of the Lord only,
in this blessing is found
A badge of honor
treasure in our future
in the storerooms of his courts
blessing beyond measure
in standing at the cross
lifting up our calling
and going into the world
July 3, 2010
written as a series of poems:
Not to power but to mercy
-
“Not to
the proud but to the humble”
Matthew 5:3
-
Not to the full but to the empty”
Matthew 5:4
-
“Not to the joyful but to those who sorrow”
Matthew 5:5
-
“Not to the proud but to the humble”
Matthew 5:6
-
Not to the silent but to the gadflies”
Matthew 5:7
-
“Not to power but to mercy”
Matthew 5:8
-
“Not to the world but to the creator”
Matthew 5:9
-
“Not to war but to peace”
Matthew 5:10
-
Not to the Timid but to the persecuted”
Matthew 5:11
-
Not to be praised but to be ridiculed”
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than
Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few
minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service,
you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want
to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper
levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of
faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 36,500+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Not to the Timid but to the persecuted
To standing in storm
to cry out in the wilderness
to preach the love of Christ
whether or not they want to hear
Blessing not to the Timid
the ones afraid to speak
controlled by society
keeping their light covered
their joy under a bushel
their powder dry
Blessing for those
who stand in the gale
persecuted for standing for the right
speaking when they could be silent
even to a friend
going where they are called
preaching the love of God
to cry out in the wilderness
to preach the love of Christ
whether or not they want to hear
Blessing not to the Timid
the ones afraid to speak
controlled by society
keeping their light covered
their joy under a bushel
their powder dry
Blessing for those
who stand in the gale
persecuted for standing for the right
speaking when they could be silent
even to a friend
going where they are called
preaching the love of God
July 3, 2010
written as a series of poems:
Not to power but to mercy
-
“Not to
the proud but to the humble”
Matthew 5:3
-
Not to the full but to the empty”
Matthew 5:4
-
“Not to the joyful but to those who sorrow”
Matthew 5:5
-
“Not to the proud but to the humble”
Matthew 5:6
-
Not to the silent but to the gadflies”
Matthew 5:7
-
“Not to power but to mercy”
Matthew 5:8
-
“Not to the world but to the creator”
Matthew 5:9
-
“Not to war but to peace”
Matthew 5:10
-
Not to the Timid but to the persecuted”
Matthew 5:11
-
Not to be praised but to be ridiculed”
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than
Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few
minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service,
you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want
to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper
levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of
faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 36,500+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Not to war but to peace
God’s word, given by the son
in a land under the rule
a captured nation
under the powerful empire
not knowing sovereignty
not knowing peace
Blessing those who would
work for peace, not for power
for war, oppression
that those who seek peace
would be called
the children of God
A love of our neighbors
all of the world
an imprinting of calm
of equality, of reverence
for all the world
in the hearts of those
who would be children of God
in a land under the rule
a captured nation
under the powerful empire
not knowing sovereignty
not knowing peace
Blessing those who would
work for peace, not for power
for war, oppression
that those who seek peace
would be called
the children of God
A love of our neighbors
all of the world
an imprinting of calm
of equality, of reverence
for all the world
in the hearts of those
who would be children of God
July 3, 2010
written as a series of poems:
Not to power but to mercy
-
“Not to
the proud but to the humble”
Matthew 5:3
-
Not to the full but to the empty”
Matthew 5:4
-
“Not to the joyful but to those who sorrow”
Matthew 5:5
-
“Not to the proud but to the humble”
Matthew 5:6
-
Not to the silent but to the gadflies”
Matthew 5:7
-
“Not to power but to mercy”
Matthew 5:8
-
“Not to the world but to the creator”
Matthew 5:9
-
“Not to war but to peace”
Matthew 5:10
-
Not to the Timid but to the persecuted”
Matthew 5:11
-
Not to be praised but to be ridiculed”
Matthew 5:1-13
Beatitudes
and email, “Notes from Peter” (Hey)
received July 1, 2010
“This Sunday my sermon is titled “Pursuing More Than
Happiness,”
and it is based on Matthew 5:1-13. If you have a few
minutes to read
this passage of scripture prior to attending the service,
you might get
a little more out of the sermon. In this sermon, I want
to challenge us all
to live with greater intentionality and to find deeper
levels of meaning
for our lives. Instant gratification can be the enemy of
faithful living.
Intentionality is the path to blessedness.”
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
July 4, 2010
Independence Day
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 36,500+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
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