A Home for Us

Walking on this earth
following our path
the way of Christ
guided by the cross
knowing in our hearts
in spite of our doubts
peace within us
even in storms, trials,
troubles day to day
confident in our savior
in the love of almighty God

A home for us
at the end of the journey
the struggles of life
for the building of our wisdom
to recognize our joy
that we have a place already
set for us in paradise
a home for us, being prepared,
when we are called from this life
to walk the streets of gold
face to face with God


July 10, 2010
poem, “Where I Belong”,
by Frank Kagulire,
posted on Facebook
July 10, 2010
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/notes/frank-kagulire/where-i-belong/143435002333637
&
poem below
-----------------------
Courage for These Days

Hope in our Lord
the future that he promised
courage for these days
while we toil here on earth

Courage to follow Jesus
on the servant’s path
to help our neighbors
out of your boundless love

Courage to heed
the Spirit’s callings
stepping out in faith
to do our loving part

Love to mend
offering his peace
living by his example
that all may know Christ

Words to speak
across the world
testifying to his power
that all will hear the good news

Taking up our cross
using our gifts in his service
courage in these days
while we toil here below


July 10, 2010
funeral for Barbara Elaine Van Patten
http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/barbara-e-van-patten
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 9, 2010
officiated by Salvation Army,
Church of the Nazarene,
United Methodist clergy
with reception at
Church of the Latter Day Saints,
and witness to her life
by pastor of Free Will Baptist Church
&
2 Corinthians 5:6-10
Proverbs 2:6, 8-9
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=8&year=2010
for July 8, 2010, read July 10, 2010
“Climbing”,
by Lucinda Haag



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.

Valuing Other Things

When we slip
the chains of pursuit
money and power
when we value other things
able then, only then
to feel the Spirit
calling us to go
to serve in the name of Christ
as children of God

So long as money, possessions
other idols, distractions
so long as these
guide our lives
we are lost
bound for destruction
separated from God
and his holy peace

Only in Christ
in his peace and contentment
happy in each moment
are we truly redeemed
Loving God and our neighbors
joy in service
humbly in this life


July 10, 2010
1 Timothy 6:10
1 Timothy 6:6-10
Hebrews 13:5
&
Day 290, “Love of Money”, 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 10, 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.

Stay True to Your Journey

No matter the hardship
the ridicule of others
trials in this life
bumps along the way

We are called
as was Timothy
to stay true to our journey
God’s plan for our lives

Continuing onward
our gifts to be used
our voices to be raised
to spread the good news

Never ceasing
in all that we do
pressing forward
to spread the good news


July 10, 2010
1 Timothy 4:12
1 Timothy 4:12a
1 Timothy 4:11-16
&
Day 289, “Motto for Youth”, 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 10, 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.

A Time to Rest

Feeling the gas
the air in the tires
the reserve supply
strength
running low

Needing to stop
a time of rest
fuel for the journey
to continue our service
work for the kingdom
after time for rest

May we heed his commands
God’s own example
resting after creating
all that there is


July 10, 2010
Genesis 1:26-2:3
Exodus 20:9-10
Genesis 2:2-3
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=10&year=2010
for July 10, 2010, read July 10, 2010
“What’s in Your Pot?”,
by Veneal S. Williams


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 Your Love

Our sacred duty
more than any other
to love God with our whole selves
and to share this with others

To teach the commands
the words of God
our children and each other
that we would walk with him

Sharing the Wisdom
the love of the Father
the grace of the Son
and the Spirit’s guiding
with all whom we meet

A sacred duty
down through the ages
to pass God’s commands to others
especially our children
seeds of the kingdom
a harvest in paradise

July 10, 2010
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Psalm 17:17-18
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=9&year=2010
for July 9, 2010, read July 10, 2010
“Our Spiritual Legacy”,
by Jayant S. Trajker
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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 19,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The First of His Commands

Never forget
never cease in telling
to remember God’s place
where he should be
preeminent in our lives

The first of his commands
by the words of the scribe
the law affirmed
by the son of the living God

To love God entirely
with all that we are
mind, body, soul, and strength
all we hope to be

Ever on our lips
ever in our hearts
teaching one another
the love of our God


July 10, 2010
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Psalm 17:17-18
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=9&year=2010
for July 9, 2010, read July 10, 2010
“Our Spiritual Legacy”,
by Jayant S. Trajker
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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 19,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Courage for These Days

Hope in our Lord
the future that he promised
courage for these days
while we toil here on earth

Courage to follow Jesus
on the servant’s path
to help our neighbors
out of your boundless love

Courage to heed
the Spirit’s callings
stepping out in faith
to do our loving part

Love to mend
offering his peace
living by his example
that all may know Christ

Words to speak
across the world
testifying to his power
that all will hear the good news

Taking up our cross
using our gifts in his service
courage in these days
while we toil here below


July 10, 2010
funeral for Barbara Elaine Van Patten
http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/barbara-e-van-patten
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 9, 2010
officiated by Salvation Army,
Church of the Nazarene,
United Methodist clergy
with reception at
Church of the Latter Day Saints,
and witness to her life
by pastor of Free Will Baptist Church
&
2 Corinthians 5:6-10
Proverbs 2:6, 8-9
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=8&year=2010
for July 8, 2010, read July 10, 2010
“Climbing”,
by Lucinda Haag

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.

So Many Voices

In the sanctuary gathered
hearts as one
thinking of your passing
and the work you had done
living the scriptures
love in your heart
guiding your journey
here in this life

So many voices
rising to speak
in deep pain yet joyful
for you are at peace
released of your body
entering in
the courts of our savior
now in paradise

A cloud of witnesses
speaking as one
the love you shared with each one
and with all those in need
a life in service
walking with God
lives touched by your grace
wife, mother, and friend


July 10, 2010
funeral for Barbara Elaine Van Patten
http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/barbara-e-van-patten
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 9, 2010
officiated by Salvation Army,
Church of the Nazarene,
United Methodist clergy
with reception at
Church of the Latter Day Saints,
and witness to her life
by pastor of Free Will Baptist Church
&
1 Samuel 18:1-4
1 Samuel 19:1-7
1 Samuel 18:3
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=7&year=2010
for July 7, 2010, read July 7, 2010, reread July 10, 2010
“Soul-Friend”,
by Bill Findlay


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.

Holding Her Hands

Holding her hands
looking into her eyes
peace washing over them
as she entered paradise

Words of love
exchanged in their eyes
holding each other
as she entered paradise


July 10, 2010
Theodore "Ted" Louis Van Patten Sr.
describing his wife, Barbara Elaine Van Patten,
in the moment of her passing
from this world into paradise,
together, speaking with their eyes,
holding each other’s hand
http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/barbara-e-van-patten
July 8, 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.

One More Time

One more time
holding her hand
lovingly, together
as she entered paradise
words unspoken
spoken with eyes
holding each other
as husband and wife
together in that moment
at peace and without pain
going before him
into paradise


July 10, 2010
Theodore "Ted" Louis Van Patten Sr.
describing his wife, Barbara Elaine Van Patten,
in the moment of her passing
from this world into paradise,
together, speaking with their eyes,
holding each other’s hand
http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/barbara-e-van-patten
July 8, 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 37,960+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In the Way of Her Passing

Holding his hand
as he retold the moment
in the way of her passing
on into eternity

Holding his hand
as she struggled in that moment
blinking I love you
yes, yes, I do

Their words with their eyes
lovingly together
so many years,
so many tears together

Holding her hand
telling her it was alright
that he would see her in heaven
when his work is done

Holding her hand
while she crossed over
entering paradise
as has been foretold

No longer in pain
no more suffering
redeemed and made whole
home with our Lord


July 10, 2010
Theodore "Ted" Louis Van Patten Sr.
describing his wife, Barbara Elaine Van Patten,
in the moment of her passing
from this world into paradise,
together, speaking with their eyes,
holding each other’s hand
http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/barbara-e-van-patten
July 8, 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 19,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Blending of Traditions

In coming together
to celebrate her life
a blending of traditions
colors of our faith
a tapestry of believing
in this one family
sitting together
to talk of her life
a testament of love
your commandments lived out


July 10, 2010
funeral for Barbara Elaine Van Patten
http://www.concordmonitor.com/article/barbara-e-van-patten
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 9, 2010
officiated by Salvation Army,
Church of the Nazarene,
United Methodist clergy
with reception at
Church of the Latter Day Saints,
and witness to her life
by pastor of Free Will Baptist Church


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 on Living Water

As certain of the strider
counting on the surface tension
to buoy it up
on its feet

We are to go as we are called
to believe not in the science
to follow Christ out
to where he would lead us

Onto the trembling seas
standing on living water
trusting in God to provide
to keep us from drowning

An abject lesson,
in the dance of that strider,
boldly going knowing
the nature of the creator

Loving us enough
to keep us on the waters
if we follow him
and ignore the winds around us


July 9, 2010
written just after finishing typing up
this prior poem, July 9, 2010, 15:54
-------------------------
Standing on the Skin of the Water

The strider skating
like the Apollo lunar lander
standing in the moon dust
leaving a mere impression

Standing on the skin of the water
moving with its motion
dancing a minuet, a waltz
gliding like a waiter in St. Moritz
free, and in its glory

Joy on a summer day
past black fly season
a damselfly in flight,
a strider going through its paces


July 9, 2010
written while waiting for haircut, July 9, 2010 09:00,
based on line in the prior poem below,
&
Eisenstaedt image,
http://www.gallerym.com/work.cfm?ID=68,
& image of moon lander,
http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/pao/History/alsj/a14/AS14-66-9254HR.jpg
----------------
Infused with Their Color

The yellow swallowtail
elegant butterfly moving
dancing on the humid air
flitting to the garden

Coming to alight, resting
perching on each flower
as if standing on the skin of water
the sun shining brightly
on every bloom, alive

Infused with their color
yellow of the zinnia,
pumpkin of the marigold,
the blaze of the lily

The color painted, saturated,
in shimmering reflection
living canvas of its wings
aglow, singing your praises,
the creator of all there is.

July 9, 2010
our backyard
Suncook, NH
Pembroke, NH
July 9, 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 on the Skin of the Water

The strider skating
like the Apollo lunar lander
standing in the moon dust
leaving a mere impression

Standing on the skin of the water
moving with its motion
dancing a minuet, a waltz
gliding like a waiter in St. Moritz
free, and in its glory

Joy on a summer day
past black fly season
a damselfly in flight,
a strider going through its paces


July 9, 2010
written while waiting for haircut,
based on line in the prior poem below,
&
Eisenstaedt image,
http://www.gallerym.com/work.cfm?ID=68,
& image of moon lander,
http://www.hq.nasa.gov/office/pao/History/alsj/a14/AS14-66-9254HR.jpg
----------------
Infused with Their Color

The yellow swallowtail
elegant butterfly moving
dancing on the humid air
flitting to the garden

Coming to alight, resting
perching on each flower
as if standing on the skin of water
the sun shining brightly
on every bloom, alive

Infused with their color
yellow of the zinnia,
pumpkin of the marigold,
the blaze of the lily

The color painted, saturated,
in shimmering reflection
living canvas of its wings
aglow, singing your praises,
the creator of all there is.

July 9, 2010
our backyard
Suncook, NH
Pembroke, NH
July 9, 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.

Infused with Their Color

The yellow swallowtail
elegant butterfly moving
dancing on the humid air
flitting to the garden

Coming to alight, resting
perching on each flower
as if standing on the skin of water
the sun shining brightly
on every bloom, alive

Infused with their color
yellow of the zinnia,
pumpkin of the marigold,
the blaze of the lily

The color painted, saturated,
in shimmering reflection
living canvas of its wings
aglow, singing your praises,
the creator of all there is.


July 9, 2010
our backyard
Suncook, NH
Pembroke, NH
July 9, 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 Call Them Here

“Give us your tired, your poor,
your huddled masses, yearning…”
We call them here
hope in these words
of welcome, of opportunity
that gate which we herald
this land different

Yet we are struggling
economic misery
jobs unavailable
fearing out neighbor
those who came
seeking that opportunity
but who didn’t stand in line

Some solution needed
some kind of justice
for our neighbor in the ditch
of just trying to get by
who believe in this place
as much as you and I


July 9, 2010
Isaiah 58: Solidarity Vigil for Arizona
http://changetakesfaith.org/
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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
&
Give us your tired, your poor

The hope of America, in the words of liberty
the hope of a new life, in freedom
“Give us your tired, your poor,
your huddled masses, yearning…”

All of them, praying, hoping,
for the abundance of freedom
freedom from want, from oppression
from tyranny of all kinds

That we would be for the world that same beacon
that we would offer that refuge
that land of opportunity
this land of plenty

No one should be hungry,
in this connected world,
none should have that fear of starvation,
of privation any longer

The storehouses should be emptied
hope given in the bread, the water
the essentials of life given
out of our bounty

None should know hunger, poverty
all should give, and all should receive
so all will never know need again
On this day, this is my prayer.

October 14, 2008
Acts 2:43-47
Acts 4:32-35
and lines from the poem, “The New Colossus”,
about the Statue of Liberty, by Emma Lazarus
October 15, 2008
Blog Action Day, poverty




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.

email of 7/8/2010 from General Board of Church and Society, The United Methodist Church

Join the July 12 National Faith & Immigration Call: Isaiah 58 Continues

Dear Raymond,

Monday, July 12, we will host our monthly National Faith & Immigration Conference Call at 4 pm (Eastern time).

The number to call is 800-920-7487 and the code is 76723736.

There are many things to discuss, especially the continued Isaiah 58 National Solidarity Vigil & Fast that has been growing across the United States. It is creating momentum among people of faith who support just, humane reform that provides a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants, reunites families and protects the rights of all workers.

So call in on Monday and urge folks in your networks to call in as well!

Upcoming weeks include:

Week 6 (July 11-17): Minnesota, Illinois, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan

Week 7 (July 18-24): Ohio, North Carolina, West Virginia, Virginia, Alabama, Georgia, Florida

Week 8 (July 25-31): Utah, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Alaska

More Immigration Updates and Ways to Respond

As many of you have heard, the Dept. of Justice filed a lawsuit July 6 against the Arizona on the grounds that the state's new immigration legislation illegally intrudes on federal responsibilities. We had met with the Dept. of Justice, the Dept. of Homeland Security and Obama administration officials urging them to take such actions. We welcome these initial steps of leadership from President Obama's administration.

As former governor of Arizona and current Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano recently testified before Congress, the border is as secure as it has been in decades. Billions of dollars have been spent. More is even being called for, ironically, by many of those in Congress who, at the same time, are calling for slashes in spending when it comes to things like extending benefits for the unemployed.

This is the classic tactic just in time for the November elections of focusing on the unsolvable — sealing the border entirely — rather than focusing on workable, humane solutions. This allows for people to blame others for not doing enough while making it impossible to do anything at all.

And suffering and chaos only continue for everyone involved.

I get a lot of e-mails, usually generated by groups opposed to workable, humane solutions, accusing us of all kinds of things that simply are not true. So, let me share briefly what we advocate for and why. Workable, humane solutions include:
Providing a pathway to legal status for undocumented immigrants (a pathway that includes payment of fines and back taxes, learning English and U.S. civics, and waiting for several years while those already waiting legally for admission are cleared first). Overburdening the undocumented with huge fines and extraordinary waits is retributive and does not solve the problem.


Reuniting families separated by migration. Some families wait for up to 20+ years to be reunited and any reform that does not clear the backlogs is not workable or humane. One major reason for illegal immigration is simply to be reunited with families. We can defend the rights of families and uphold the rule of law by simply clearing the backlogs through several small legislative fixes.


Protect the rights of all workers. Maintaining an undocumented class of workers hurts all workers in the United States because this drives down wages and prevents the right of workers to collectively bargain for higher wages and better working conditions. Businesses should be penalized for recruiting and hiring undocumented workers and hurting all workers. And the process for a pathway to legal status should be offered to all who are here and are undocumented. This is simply the best way to protect the rights of workers.


Enforcement should be smart and focused and should respect the civil and human rights of all immigrants. The best line on enforcement comes from "Welcoming the Migrant to the United States," the resolution passed by General Conference in 2008: "All nations have the right to secure their borders, but the primary concern of the Christian is the welfare of the immigrant." We have never advocated for an increase in illegal immigration. What we do advocate for in our meetings with Dept. of Homeland Security and White House officials is that the basic civil and human rights of immigrants be maintained and that enforcement be directed towards reducing the violence in the border states.

I hope spelling this out helps those who have legitimate questions. And there are legitimate questions! I also hope this helps out those of you who are passionate activists in support of immigrants and want to build bridges with those who have legitimate questions. We advocate for the best for everyone and I believe that is possible to do so with this issue.

Just "enforcing the current law" is like trying to make two-lane county roads from 50 years ago serve growing urban centers as the primary routes of transportation. As the context changes, so too must our policy. Otherwise we have laws that cannot be enforced. Unenforceable laws give rise to anarchy, which describes so much of what surrounds immigration policy now.

That is why we stress workable, humane solutions.

Further, as Christians we have to steer clear of the all of the unfortunate hate-speech that fills the airwaves. Legitimate questions deserve time and space to answer, and legitimate questions are ones that do not ignore or discount the basic civil and human rights of immigrants. Ridiculous e-mails without a shred of fact should not be where we get our talking points.

As followers of Jesus we must focus on what our missional call is in this issue: How do we as followers of Jesus stand with the vulnerable and poor in our midst who are immigrants? Then we must advocate for just reform that is effective and humane. This is the most biblical and most missional posture the Church can take.
Our mission as followers of Jesus is to create a space for those who have legitimate questions and those who are newly arriving to the United States where they can get to know one another, to learn from one another, and to recognize the Imago Dei, or image of God, in each of us. All of us are made in the image of God no matter what our legal status is.

So, let us walk together regardless of whether we have consensus. Let us love God together, love another and love those who come to the United States.
If we can do that, everything else is gravy.

In Christ,

Bill Mefford
Director, Civil and Human Rights
United Methodist General Board of Church and Society
www.umc-gbcs.org

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.

Too Much the Levite

Too focused on myself
claiming that I am busy
taking on the world
when I should be seeking love
following the commands of my savior
humble before God
caring for my fellow man

Too much the Levite
busy, standing in place
crossing to the other side
when they need my aid
Changing only sometimes
dropping my files, my words
turning to the more important
when I am called by the Lord

The words of the Spirit
leading me to turn
guiding my steps
toward the man
the girls calling me
away from my
focus on myself
to who you want me to be


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Love for Our Neighbor

To have life,
abundantly, turning
from the world
simplifying our beliefs
in the two commands of Christ

Love for our God
love for our neighbor too
so simple, longing for relationship
between God and man
and for our fellow man

The rest will fall into place
the opportunities to share
abounding, overflowing
guiding us to reconciliation
all in the family of God


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Our Neighbor

The calling to love
to be a good neighbor
unbound by any dividing line
because Christ tore them down

Everyone we meet
everyone alive
all of them our neighbor
to be loved, in God’s eyes

How much differently
would we really act
if we measured the world
by this commandment of God

Not just the generic words
the easy text of the law
but living these words
in the chaos of the world

In those dark roads
where we truly fear to tread
in the back alleys and ditches
on the fringe of our lives

Further yet, all around the globe
people crying out in suffering
how often we fail to heed
our savior’s call

Love remaining,
for God and for man
all encompassing
in servanthood, agape love
grace to our fellow man


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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 19,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Our Indifference

Probably a bit painful
reading the story
always hearing the call
to come to their assistance
the man on that road
lying in the ditch

Our indifference deafening
in the little we truly do
to help our neighbor
sometimes bleeding
in their pain, in injustice
crying out to us

His story simple
when you stand on that road
stop when you are called
changing what you had planned
reaching out to them in love
no matter who they are
no matter the personal cost


July 8, 2010
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Down into the Ditch

Down into the ditch
off of our perches
lowering ourselves
into the depths
Reaching out
to our neighbors
in this a neighbor being
as he had described

Giving life,
meaning to the scripture
the ancient law
that had withered
on the vine
Twisted from love
rules only, restrictions,
needing the sinew of his story
to give the law life

No matter our plans
where we thought we were going
moments of epiphany
when we are called to serve
entering the dark places
where we would fear to tread
seeking to help our brothers
that they may be fed

Entering with the Spirit
calling us from within
to heed the savior’s lesson
in the healing of that man
Not by the neighbors
the hired hands of the flock
a neighbor from afar
following the spirit of the law


July 8, 2010
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Love Within

Of these virtues
love remaining
deep within us
the Spirit of God
Christ calling to us

Heeding his lessons
living the commandments
love for God in submission
his love for us in his sacrifice
healing the whole human race

That kernel, that spark,
the seed of the infinite
planted within
if we would tend it
leading us to action

To speak, to aid
to lift our neighbors up
out of the road
bringing them healing
out of the depths of his love


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Changing Me from Within

Changing me, changing us
all the believers
the work of the Spirit
like water etching rock
almost imperceptible
but relentless
in God’s ever flowing stream
the living waters
the reading of your word
filling us over time
that only we would learn

Changing us, a journey
walking toward perfection
leading us to stop
loving us enough
to aid our neighbors
to ponder our feet of clay
the dust on our sandals
or the water licking our feet
ignoring the winds around us
as we follow our savior
walking on the waters


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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 Dove’s Wings Beating

The Spirit ringing
calling from within us
to open our hearts
and feel the dove’s wings beating

The same Spirit
descended on Jesus
bodily, as if a dove,
entering his heart

The one same Spirit
landing on the apostles
those gathered in the room
tongues of fire descending

Listen to the whisper
the voice of God calling
the fire within us yet
the beating of the wings
within the beating of our hearts


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

That ember of your fire

Enough to light the world
the ember of your fire
burning in our hearts
teaching us your ways

Reading the scriptures
the law and his living
new meaning to the words
by the Spirit’s guiding

Leading us differently
walking on this earth
caring more for our neighbors
everyone on earth

If only we would listen
to the wisdom shouting within us
telling us to love each other
not cross to the other side


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

A Piece of God

As long as I live
walking on this earth
the Spirit within me
guiding my feet

A piece of God
a seed of hope
planted deep
in my heart

Love, when I offer it
only from this
the welling up
the Spirit in me

Teach me Spirit
to answer your call
when my neighbor needs me
giving my all


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

That Seed of the Spirit

That ember of your fire
that seed of the Spirit
that wondrous kernel of God
breathed into me
planted deep
in the soil of my heart
may it ever grow
to serve
to lift
to raise your praises of high
seeking ever to give
to offer,
to bring hope
your joy, your truth
to the world


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

That Part of Love

The kernel of God
beating in my chest
the Spirit speaking to me
that part of love
that is within me
guiding my feet to go
teaching me what I must say
leading me to lift them up
changing my path
to aid those in need
serving him instead


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

That Part of God

The scripture describing
what it means to love
what there is about walking
faithful to God
the three remaining
but love is preeminent
because that is
the essence of God

That part of God
living in us
that calls us from our sin
that leads us to
our neighbor in pain
raising them up again
seeking to assuage their troubles
to change our course to them
to offer that part of God
that lives in our hearts


July 8, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13 and
Poem, “That Part”, by Frank Kagulire,
http://www.facebook.com/note.php?note_id=142931035717367
and the Facebook comments that followed
July 8, 2010
&
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

And You Shall Live

Unburdened by the minutiae
the constraints of the decrees
getting at the commandments
how we are to live

Love for our creator
in all the aspects of man
love for our neighbor
in inclusive terms

If we do these
if we follow his call
we shall live
live, forevermore


July 8, 2010
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Reaching Down

Though he was bloody
lying in the road
the robbers leaving him
nearly dead

Reaching down anyway
though he was ritually unclean
needing the love of a stranger
when his neighbors passed him by


July 8, 2010
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Because He was Unclean

Forgetting the words of the law
the responsibility we share
walking as our brother’s keeper
since the time of the beginning
in the law the scribe remembered
speaking to our Lord

The requirement, in the breach
that we love our neighbors
as much as we love ourselves

This should have been enough
for the priest, and then the Levite
walking on the other side
when their neighbor was in need
crying out in pain
lying in the road

Because he was unclean
covered in blood
their work too important
to stop and touch this life

But this is the strictures
the stumbling blocks of man
why Christ had to come
to set the scale right again

The spirit of the law
at its heart, of God
love forevermore
should ever be our call
to stop our former course
to turn to our fellow man
to reach down to where they lay
to offer God’s loving hand


July 8, 2010
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Truer Blessing

Our happiness
our blessedness
in our walk in this life
not by human perceptions
the dog eat dog
pull yourself up
by your own bootstraps
he who dies with the most toys wins
self-delusion

Held up to the mirror
to his admonitions
his teachings,
recast in the words of Christ
to be our guide, our beacon
the lamp, the light we follow
conforming our steps
yoked with our savior

Choosing freedom
in the way of the servant
offering our hand
our life for our neighbor
hope for those in need
stopping what we are doing
for they matter
worthy as we are
in the loving eyes of God

July 8, 2010
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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
&
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

https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss

http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss

http://www.pstruthsermons.blogspot.com

sermon blog

http://www.pstrruthfoss.blogspot.com

meditation blog

http://pstrfoss.wordpress.com/

“God’s Whisper” blog
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 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.

Do the Same

Not some abstract lesson
a recitation of the law
the question of the lawyer
needing to a parable
a real-life example
for us all to us

The rest of the dialogue
to be a true neighbor
loving our enemies
as we love ourselves
being God’s hands
his feet in the world

Caring for those in the road
in the dark places
abused, oppressed
hidden in the shadows
crying out in pain
ignored, inconvenient
left for half dead

Stepping forward
for those we find in need
inconvenient moments
of epiphany
Stopping our busy work
even for the Lord
Being his hands and feet
when our neighbor calls


July 8, 2010
Luke 10:29-37
Luke 10:25-28
Luke 10:25-37
The Good Samaritan
&
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 7, 2010
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.

Breathing this Prayer

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.