Sermon - "I Love You!", by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, Suncook United Methodist Church, Suncook, NH, August 29, 2010

Pastor Ruth Foss
August 29, 2010
Suncook United Methodist Church
Hebrews 13:1-3, 5-6, 15-16 NIV Bible)
Luke 13:10-17 (Common English Bible)


“I Love You!

The love boat soon will be making another run. . . the love boat promises something for everyone . . . (Sing) . . .

How many of you remember the show “The Love Boat”? I remember watching as a kid. I would watch it each week . . . hoping things would work out in the end of these love stories (I think I may have even fallen in love with some of the characters in the stories. . . ). I have always been a hopeless. . . or should I say hopeful romantic. To be swept off my feet by “Mr. Right” and live happily ever after was something that I just knew would happen someday. . . I would be loved unconditionally and I would love in the same way. . . we would have three children, a house with a white picket fence, a couple of horses and a dog. Little girls and little boys too dream of their Night in Shining Armor. We are princesses locked in a tower and need to be set free.

We all have our own Idea about what love should be and how it should look. Unfortunately the vision we have of love may not be the love we receive at all and we wonder where we have gone wrong in life. . . why isn’t love the way we envisioned it to be. . . there must be something wrong with us because our vision of love is the way it should be and we are not living that vision. Is the vision we have for love the vision. . . the way. . . that God sees true love? Is it how our God ordained it to be? Is it the love that kept Jesus’ out stretched arms nail to the cross of Calvary?

Let us pray. . .
Gracious, Loving, God. . . you have called us by name and have loved us before we were born. We thank you for that love that You so richly lavish upon us each and every moment of our lives. We pray for Your loving presence here with us today. May we hear the word you have for us this day. . . may our Spirits stir within us as we hear about a love that surpasses all understanding. May we have eyes to see, ears to hear, and a heart that is open to your still small voice. May your word be heard through me or in spite of me and may the mediations of our hearts and minds be pleasing to you our God, our Rock and our Redeemer.
A men

Love, love love, we all want it. . . we all want to be able to give it to other. . . we are all sure of what love is and what it isn’t. Or do we. . . in the Hebrews passage read today by my lovely assistant Mary Ann we heard about a love that may sound a little strange to us. . . a love that may make us a little squeamish at times. We are told to “Keep Loving each other as brothers” and sisters. Now don’t get me wrong. . . I truly do love other people but do I really have to love that person that gets on my nerves. . . the “Uncle Festers’” of the family? Well. . . the answer to that is Yes! And do I really have to love people as if I was going through the same sufferings that they are even though some may be in their sufferings because of their own doing? The answer to that is Yes! And do I really have to “always” try to do good and share with others? Again. . . guess what the answer is. . . Yes! Well how am I supposed to do that??? Well. . . It’s all about compassion for others. . . It’s all about caring more for others than about our own selves and agenda’s.

Listen to this story about Jesus when He was in the synagogue one day on the Sabbath. . . now here is a real radical man. . . (and I’m going to read from a new translation called the “Common English Bible” and I am reading Luke 13:10-17)) (read passage)

Jesus knew how to love. . . as a matter of fact He was love because His love is what kept Him on the cross. . . Jesus didn’t care what the Pharisees and Sadducees had to say. . . He was in it for loves sake. It was His compassion for those around Him that brought Him to love radically and unreservedly those around Him.

This reading has really made me think about God’s love towards us. During VBS this year, as the story teller, I read to the children the story of the woman at the well. I read it from the voice of the woman herself. You see. . . Jesus offered her a drink from the well of “living water” from which she would never thirst again. But. . . within this well of living water there was something else. . . there was compassion along with that love. Having compassion for others is one of the things that brings us to the place of radical love for others. . . it is what helps us love the “unlovely”, the Uncle Fester’s of our lives. It is this compassion that helps anchor my faith in Jesus’ love for me. It is that hope that will not let me down because as the scripture say” God will not leave me of forsake me.”

Yesterday. . . while I was walking down the street giving out waters. . . I had kind of a revelation. Here it is. . . I was giving out water to people on a hot day who had been standing in the hot sun watching the parade. I was offering them something that they needed. . . a cool drink of water. They needed this life giving water because they were parched by the sun. But it was my compassion for these people that prompted me to do so and because of that compassion I was able to meet their need for the moment. It is compassion that causes us to reach out in love to those around us.

Not only did I show compassion yesterday but so did we as a church. We set out chairs for people to be able to sit instead of stand in the hot sun. . . We as a church worked together to make sure that people had something good to eat with our Fried Dough Booth. . . which I must say was just as good as ever. . . we as a church decided that we would tithe ten percent of our profit to help those in need. . . the list goes on and on how this church shows compassion for those around us.

Church. . . love begins with compassion. . . love is born out of that “virtue”. Love is something that we all need and need to hear someone say it either in action or word. I want you to look to your neighbor next to you. . . tell them you love them no matter what. . . now how great was that. . . you more than likely may have made some ones day. Love really is something that can be “exciting and new” (remember the theme to Love Boat). . . it can be radical and life changing not only for the receiver but also for the giver. Love. . . it leads to compassion and changed lives. Just look at what the love of the author of our faith did for you and for me. It is at the foot of Calvary where we find the strength and joy to say to one another that we love them. . . even the unlovely ones in our lives. Let us play follow the leader with our Risen Lord Jesus Christ and be for the world that healing balm that they need. Oh yah. . . there’s one more thing. . . Jesus loves you and there’s nothing you can do about it. . . and so do I.

Amen?

Luke 13:10-17
Hebrews 13:1-3, 5-6, 15-16
Psalm 112:1-4 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Treating others with compassion and love.”
and sermon, “I Love You!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
August 29, 2010
Fourteenth Sunday after Pentecost


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

Preparing is Worship

The printing of the bulletins
the cleaning of the rugs
the laying out the vestments
the pouring of the cups

The buying of the bread
the typing the words to share
all of the work behind the scene
as important as the rest

Preparing is worship
as much as the words read out loud
the little things matter so much
in the kingdom of God

All of us able
to do our holy work
whether mowing the lawn
or singing in the choir


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Any Act of Service

Any act of service
done in Jesus name
an offering of ourselves
glorifying God
Any act for another
lifting our neighbor up
any random act of kindness
shining light in the darkness
worship of our master
in all we say and do


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

An Opportunity to Serve - 2

All of life, choices
in everything we do
in the work of our hands
in the living out our lives

An opportunity to serve
to share the love of Christ
nothing to unimportant
to be used for good by God


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

What we like the least

Sometimes the tasks are mundane
downright humbling
but that is part of the story’
of what it means to be his disciple

Like Christ himself
humbly, on his knees
washing the disciples feet
in the upper room

To be a shepherd
a witness for Christ
is to be a servant
humble before God

Faithful to our calling
to whatever we are called
to serve faithfully
giving it our all

All the work important
to spread the good news
all of it sacred
no matter our point of view


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

All of It Is Sacred Work

Every task we perform
any act of service
if done in the name of Christ
all of it is sacred work
lifting up the body of the church
sharing God’s love
offering ourselves as a sacrifice
faithful to his calling

September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Part of Our Sacred Calling

Service, in the small things
without frills and trappings of power
no prestige must accrue
to be faithful to God’s calling

All is holy work
part of our sacred calling
to be part of the body of Christ
helping out our neighbor
spreading his message of love


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

If Done in His Name

Every job, every activity
holy in God’s sight
if done in Christ’s name
to lift the people up

No task too small
service to our neighbors
all like the lamb, an offering
if faithful to God’s calling


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Washing the Feet of the Disciples

In the example of our savior
the master washing their feet
telling the disciples
how to care for each other
not on some pedestal
but offering them love
humbly as a servant
as our master did


September 6, 2010
John 13
&
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Washing Our Brother's Feet

Like Christ, as a servant
washing our brother’s feet
serving with a willing heart
at the calling of God


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Whatever We Do in His Name

Nothing in our lives unimportant
whatever our work, our tasks
whatever we do in his name
holy in God’s sight

Serving in Christ’s name
wherever we are
noble in the eyes of God
wherever we may go

September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

The Nature of a Servant

Nothing glamorous
not regal or with pomp
Christ coming into the world
a babe in the manger

Living all of his life
in the nature of a servant
going the way of the cross
humble before God

In him we find
the true example of love
the witness of God’s grace
serving our fellow man

A reward in heaven above
not in this troubled world
following in his footsteps
each of us picking up our cross

Serving to be exalted
in the name of Christ
faithful to our master
offering all God’s endless love

September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Christ Emptied

The best example
the perfecter of our faith
the way of Christ
going to the cross

Before his ministry
and in the Garden
Gethsemane
pouring out his divinity

His will an offering
poured out on the ground
taking up the cup
a servant to God’s plan

Picking up our cross
pouring out ourselves
that we would be filled
to continue his work

To spread the good news
to the whole world
following our master
sure of the grace of God
the fulfillment of his promise

September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Conformed to His Will

To seek the Lord
to feel him beside me
to be conformed to his will
sacrificing my whole self to him

Oh to walk with my savior
to be yoked to my brother
to share in his message
of God’s love for all mankind

That we all would be redeemed
washed by the blood of the master
that all would see in me
a reflection of the lamb


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Made Over

Transformed by the cleansing of God
that I may be washed clean
pouring out all that I am
that I may be filled with him

Emptying my will
poured out on the ground
a sacrifice of my whole self
to ever serve my God

Offering all of me
in my work, my day to day
focused on his calling
spreading his message of love


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

True Worship

All of our days
all the moments of our lives
turned over to God
as an offering, a sacrifice
our wills abandoned
submitting to the calling of God
serving as we are led
offering all of ourselves
humbly before our God


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

A Living Sacrifice

Not some of our wealth
fruits from our works
our whole lives given to God
a living sacrifice
our hands, our feet, our voices
crying in the wilderness
going to where we are called
serving where the Spirit would lead
doing all that we can
sharing the love of Christ
to our fellow man


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

A Vessel of His Grace

Urgently sharing
words that come to me
that I would be a vessel of his grace
his love for you and me
That the words I feel
welling up inside of me
would be bits of God’s love
poured out that we would be free


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

A Vessel of Your Love

Let me mouth, my heart
all that I am
let me be a vessel of your love
to all my fellow man

Let me be emptied
let me be filled
let me be poured out
that others may be filled


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

A Vessel of God’s Will

That I may be
a vessel of God’s will
letting go of the world
that I truly may be filled

My clay, my body,
merely the glove
fill me to do your work
that I may truly live


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

A Vessel of Your Will

Offering myself completely
a vessel of your will
poured out that I am empty
ready to be filled

Give me voice
a message to share
your glory to reveal
share your love to the world
that all on earth may be filled


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Emptied to . . .

If we heed the apostle
the calling from Paul
poured out like Christ
our will on the ground

To be filled for a purpose
the calling of God
to go as we are called
to serve in his name


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Disciplined with Justice

The promise of God
in the gathering storm
in the fire of war
his judgment to come
but not complete destruction
the people to be chastened
to return to the law
disciplined with justice
but not completely destroyed
for God is with us
even in the storm


September 6, 2010
Jeremiah 46:28
Jeremiah 46-48
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for Septmber 3, 2010, read September 6, 2010


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

His Words from My Lips

Words coming like water
from a wellspring of love
flowing from my lips
to share with the world

Not understanding how or why
use me ever, oh Lord
show me a bit of your grace
that I may share with the world


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

His Words on My Lips

Open to the words of God
His words on my lips
seared into my flesh
flowing out of me


September 6, 2010
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Jeremiah 1:9-10
&
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

His Words - 3

Giving my life
over to his words
sharing with the world
the hope in God’s love
Whatever we do
the steadfast grace
the faithfulness
of God, his embrace
In the words
put into my mouth
to share with the word
a vision of his love


September 5, 2010 and September 6, 2010
Jeremiah 1:4-10
Jeremiah 1:9-10
&
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Equipped by God

Guided by his hand
a passion for his call
equipped by God
for the work of our hands
to lift up the body
to serve in his name
to the ends of the earth


September 6, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

at all times

thankful to God
singing his praise
at all times
in all places
wherever we may be
thankful in our daily lives
in our work and in our play
praising our God ever
ever and always

September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

In all our tasks

Wherever we are
whatever we are doing
in all of our tasks
it is good to praise you
thankful for all your gifts
the bounty poured out on us
for this we sing
let the earth resound
and the heavens ring
our praises to you
our God and our king


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Redeemed by His Blood

Only by the gift of Christ
his sacrifice on the cross
no one saved by our works
redeemed by his blood
the breaking of his body
taking on our sins
freeing us from the judgment
able to come before our king


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

By Your Spirit

By your spirit
living within us
we are able, empowered
to do our master’s work

Made one in his ministry
to spread the good news
the grace of God revealed
in all we say and do


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

at his heavenly banquet

Our Lord’s table
the bread and the wine
the depth of his love
yet only a foretaste
a hint, a glimpse
of the bounty of
his heavenly banquet
ours for all eternity


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Offering Our Daily Lives

God’s call, not a halfway thing
calling for us, an offering of all
offering our daily lives, ourselves
on the altar of the cross
giving ourselves
as our savior did
following Christ
wherever he will lead


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

A Commissioned People

Each of us called
like the first disciples
those who walked with him
those on Pentecost

To spread the good news
to do our sacred work
a commissioned people
sent to tell the earth


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

One in Ministry

All of us charged
to come together as one people
to serve our fellow man
one in ministry
following our savior
obedient to God’s plan


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Empowered all of His followers

Each of us empowered
filled with the Holy Spirit
Christ living within us
to continue his holy work

Delegated from our savior
to be his hands and feet
going forth to serve
to the ends of the earth


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

His Divine Work in this World

Though he was human
the son of the most high
his mission central
to the plan of God

To offer hope for the poor
to set the captives free
to release the prisoners
those like you and me

His divine work in the world
to spread God’s message of love
ours to do in our time
until the work is done

To share Christ to all we meet
to act in his holy name
to reveal why he came
to bring everyone home again


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

The Work of Human Hands

The bread and the cup
the symbols of his life
intoned words in sharing
the body and the blood

The fruits of the earth
and the work of human hands
together in service
remembering the lamb

Delegated to the commissioned
disciples in his holy work
continuing down to you and me
each of us to play a part


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Delegated to Us

Down through the ages
from the twelve to us
Christ delegating his ministry
to the disciples, the sheep

Each of us gifted
sent forth to serve
to use what we have been given
to lift up the church

September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

By My Side

When I struggle
when I am in pain
when the road ahead
is full of dread
I look to you
walking with me
by my side
all of my days
You oh God are with me
ever when I need you
all of my days
you are by my side


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

A Strong and Wise Friend

May God ever be
a strong and wise friend
not some distant being
set apart from our living
our day to day

May we sense God with us
walking beside us
understanding our struggles
the trials of our days
walking with us side by side
with us ever, all of our days


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

by the light of your truth

That we could follow in your paths
in the way of your love, your grace
that we would walk ever
by the light of your truth
this is our prayer
our centering together
the hope of this people
as we gather into prayer
to worship you together
as the body of Christ


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Enable Us

Empower us Lord
enable us oh God
to walk with you
to live by your light
your truth
calling from within our hearts
to follow the path you have laid out
the way of the cross of our lives
to seek your glory
singing your praises
all of our days


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Too Weak Alone

God, we pray that you
would walk beside us
we are too weak alone
to walk through our trials
the journey of our days
Needing you with us
on the path of our lives
to lift us when we stumble
stay close to us we pray

September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

God Gives Us Rest

In the struggles
in our trials
trust in the Lord
God gives us rest
even in the storms


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

There is no higher calling

The message of our savior
the one from heaven
who descended to the earth
emptied of his divinity
to walk as a man
There is no higher calling
to follow the master’s call
and serve in his name


September 5, 2010
Matthew 10:42
Romans 12:1-12
Psalm 127:1-2 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Communion Liturgy for Labor Day Sunday
Prayer of Dedication
(from , “Bless Thou the Gifts”, #587, The United Methodist Hymnal)
Worship Theme: “Reflecting on God’s Call in Your Life”
Message for Children by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “There is No Higher Calling”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 5, 2010
Fifteenth Sunday after Pentecost
Labor Day Sunday



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

Forgetting My Sin

Remembering my iniquities no more
forgetting my sin
forgiving my wickedness
my estrangement from him

A new chance, a new covenant
the words of God living
inscribed on each believer’s heart
sharing God’s love with you and me


September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:34
“No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,'
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,"
declares the LORD.
"For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more.”
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Jeremiah 31:21-33:26
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 31, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

We Would Know God

As with the ancient people
those of the descendants
of Abraham, of Jacob
the flock of David

We would know God
if we would only see
the love of our creator
poured out for you and me

Come to save us
to atone for our iniquities
a new covenant beating
alive in our hearts today

The spirit, the law
beating with us
walking ever with us
on the journey of our lives


September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:34
“No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,'
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,"
declares the LORD.
"For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more.”
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Jeremiah 31:21-33:26
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 31, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

We Will Know God

Every one of the people
all the children of God
chosen and appointed
anointed for God’s purpose
all will know God
in the person of Jesus
for in the son we know the father
the creator and perfector of our faith

Jeremiah 31:34
“No longer will a man teach his neighbor,
or a man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,'
because they will all know me,
from the least of them to the greatest,"
declares the LORD.
"For I will forgive their wickedness
and will remember their sins no more.”
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Jeremiah 31:21-33:26
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 31, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

Poured into Our Hearts

The Spirit of Christ
the law of God
the very love
our creator’s essence
the nature of God
poured into our hearts
seared on the very flesh
living ever in us


September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Jeremiah 31:21-33:26
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 31, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

Beating in Our Chests

God’s word, his law
the wisdom of the creator
his love for us flowing
down on us like water

Beating in our chests
the Spirit of Jesus
the grace of our savior
guiding our hands and feet

September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Jeremiah 31:21-33:26
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 31, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

Written on Our Hearts - 2

Not on tablets of stone
that can crumble
not on books or scrolls
that can burn or be forgotten
Written on our hearts
the commands
the law of God
that we would remember
his calling to the people
to each one of us
to be faithful to his purpose
his loving plan for us

September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Jeremiah 31:21-33:26
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 31, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

God’s Law in Our Heart

A voice rising
speaking to us
when we are choosing
right from what is wrong
God’s law in our hearts
guiding our feet
to choose the better path
if we would let him lead
listening to his guiding
faithful to our king


September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:31-34
Jeremiah 31:21-33:26
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 31, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

Hope for Our Future

In the ancient promises
the covenant of God
that all who are faithful
all who are his children
all to be gathered
returned to the promise
hope for our future
all of our days


September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:17
“So there is hope for your future," declares the LORD. "Your children will return to their own land.”
Jeremiah 28:1-31:20
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 30, 2010, read September 4, 2010



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

Filled with God’s Bounty

The richness of God
the bounty of the spirit
filled with the stuff of God
beating in our hearts

The new covenant flowing
etched on our hearts
flowing through us
when we submit to God


September 5, 2010
Jeremiah 31:14
“I will satisfy the priests with abundance,
and my people will be filled with my bounty,"
declares the LORD.”
Jeremiah 28:1-31:20
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 30, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

Redeeming His People

Hope, even in judgment,
triumph after struggles
all of us to be gathered
from the ends of the earth
all of God’s people
redeemed in his sight

All of us brought back
out of our exile
our straying from the faith
back into the community
all of the sheep carried
back into the fold


September 4, 2010
Jeremiah 31:8
Jeremiah 28:1-31:20
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 30, 2010, read September 4, 2010


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

Fresh Tomato

From the stem
fresh from the garden
warm from the sun
the air in our yard

The fresh tomato
so different
from their store-bought cousins
a feast for my palate
ready for one more

September 4, 2010
harvesting our own garden
September 4, 2010
tomatoes, peppers, eggplant,



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

The Word, the Law

God speaking plainly
the word, the law
life from his lips
written on the tablets
the beating slate of our hearts

September 4, 2010
Genesis 1:1-2:4
Jeremiah
Exodus 20:1-8
http://www.voiceseducation.org/
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/poetry-about-words
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/raymond-s-foss-poems


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

In the Mouth of God

The infinite power of words
in the mouth of God
speaking all into being
conjured from nothing
spoken into existence
all that is and ever was

September 4, 2010
Genesis 1:1-2:4
http://www.voiceseducation.org/
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/poetry-about-words
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/raymond-s-foss-poems


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

Words – haiku - 2

to heal or to hurt
to paint a wonderful picture
to solve so many problems

September 4, 2010
http://www.voiceseducation.org/
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/poetry-about-words
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/raymond-s-foss-poems


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

The Word - 2

The word, above all words
at the beginning
coming alive
Christ the son
the power of the word
in him alone
we all have life

September 4, 2010
http://www.voiceseducation.org/
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/poetry-about-words
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/raymond-s-foss-poems


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

Words - 2

The power of words
the tongue and the pen
the fingers typing on the keyboard
sowing justice or dread

So much conveyed
in the words we speak
love or hate
in the words that we speak

September 4, 2010
http://www.voiceseducation.org/
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/poetry-about-words
http://www.voiceseducation.org/content/raymond-s-foss-poems


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

Secure in God

Not fearing the storms
anchored on the Christ
secure in God
the source of all our strength

Rest while the winds may blast
in the raging torrent
while we may feel buffered
in his our quiet refuge

The safe harbor of our lord
in him we find out peace
rest from the storms of life
this is our prayer, our offering

September 4, 2010
on seeing the poem, “Jesus Slept”,
before posting it to FaithWriters today
------------
Jesus Slept

In the one who came from heaven
remembering the sabbath
taking time for rest
Jesus slept in the boat
the winds, the waves
the storm all around
trusting in the creator
to guide their path
to watch over them
leading them to still waters
rest from their labors

August 23, 2009
Mark 4:35-40
Exodus 20:8-11
Psalm 23
Psalm 127:2
and
Message: Rev. Huntley Halvorson,
"Keeping the Sabbath"
including reference to
Wayne Muller’s book,
“Sabbath: Restoring the Sacred Rhythm of Rest”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
August 23, 2009


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

Rest in Our Father

Like Jesus we can sleep
in the storms of this life
if we truly are faithful
we can find the same peace
rest in our father
the maker of heaven and earth

Stay faithful to our calling
doing our master’s work
being his hands and feet
his voice in the world
spreading his message of love
to the ends of the earth

September 4, 2010
on seeing the poem, “Jesus Slept”,
before posting it to FaithWriters today
------------
Jesus Slept

In the one who came from heaven
remembering the sabbath
taking time for rest
Jesus slept in the boat
the winds, the waves
the storm all around
trusting in the creator
to guide their path
to watch over them
leading them to still waters
rest from their labors


August 23, 2009
Mark 4:35-40
Exodus 20:8-11
Psalm 23
Psalm 127:2
and
Message: Rev. Huntley Halvorson,
"Keeping the Sabbath"
including reference to
Wayne Muller’s book,
“Sabbath: Restoring the Sacred Rhythm of Rest”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
August 23, 2009


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

Asleep in His Arms

Tired from the work
spreading the good news
asleep in his arms
in the embrace of the father

Christ sleeping
while they thrashed about
able to find rest in the maker
of heaven, of earth, of us

Trust in the provider
God will see us through
the storms of life will not shake you
if you put your faith in him

September 4, 2010
on seeing the poem, “Jesus Slept”,
before posting it to FaithWriters today
------------
Jesus Slept

In the one who came from heaven
remembering the sabbath
taking time for rest
Jesus slept in the boat
the winds, the waves
the storm all around
trusting in the creator
to guide their path
to watch over them
leading them to still waters
rest from their labors


August 23, 2009
Mark 4:35-40
Exodus 20:8-11
Psalm 23
Psalm 127:2
and
Message: Rev. Huntley Halvorson,
"Keeping the Sabbath"
including reference to
Wayne Muller’s book,
“Sabbath: Restoring the Sacred Rhythm of Rest”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
August 23, 2009


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

In the Comfort of God

Alone among them
able to sleep
resting peacefully
in the comfort of God

Not fearing the day to day
even the storms on the sea
resting securely in the arms of God
as we should be each day


September 4, 2010
on seeing the poem, “Jesus Slept”,
before posting it to FaithWriters today
------------
Jesus Slept

In the one who came from heaven
remembering the sabbath
taking time for rest
Jesus slept in the boat
the winds, the waves
the storm all around
trusting in the creator
to guide their path
to watch over them
leading them to still waters
rest from their labors


August 23, 2009
Mark 4:35-40
Exodus 20:8-11
Psalm 23
Psalm 127:2
and
Message: Rev. Huntley Halvorson,
"Keeping the Sabbath"
including reference to
Wayne Muller’s book,
“Sabbath: Restoring the Sacred Rhythm of Rest”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
August 23, 2009


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

don't worship things made by human hands

The crushing truth, the indictment, the judgment
the fall of Jerusalem, before the great I Am
the people forgetting, ignoring his commandments
turning to other gods, made by human hands
The prophet shouting, a relentless message
turn to the Lord, to the ancient of days
that we would be faithful
conformed to his covenant
the commands of God
all of our days


September 3, 2010
Jeremiah 2:26-5:19
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 23, 2010, read August 31, 2010


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

Clay – haiku - 5

formed by the potter
from the lifeless stuff of earth
alive in his hands

September 3, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 16:10-20:18
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 27, 2010, read September 2, 2010
&
Isaiah 56:6-8
Isaiah 55:1-60:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 20, 2010, read August 30, 2010
&
earlier poem
-----------------------
In the Potter’s Hands

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

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


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

Clay – haiku - 4

The dust of the earth
living waters of our God
shaped to be poured out

September 3, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 16:10-20:18
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 27, 2010, read September 2, 2010
&
Isaiah 56:6-8
Isaiah 55:1-60:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 20, 2010, read August 30, 2010
&
earlier poem
-----------------------
In the Potter’s Hands

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

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


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

Clay

Dirt and living water
dust and the breath of life
my vessel forming
in the loving hands of God

September 3, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 16:10-20:18
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 27, 2010, read September 2, 2010
&
Isaiah 56:6-8
Isaiah 55:1-60:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 20, 2010, read August 30, 2010
&
earlier poem
-----------------------
In the Potter’s Hands

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

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


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

Sticky Clay

To be sticky clay
in the hands of the potter
malleable to his touch
ready for his direction

Seeking his guidance
conformed to him
changing my life around
that I would follow Christ

September 3, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 16:10-20:18
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 27, 2010, read September 2, 2010
&
Isaiah 56:6-8
Isaiah 55:1-60:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 20, 2010, read August 30, 2010
&
earlier poem
-----------------------
In the Potter’s Hands

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

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


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

The Roar of the Engine

The night of the hurricane
no end to the shaking
The house on the bluff
exposed to the wind
The roar of the engine
the freight train overhead
In the hurricane’s fury
in a place up high
Above the shoreline
in the path of the storm
wishing for the night to end
to be able to go outside

September 3, 2010
Gay Head
Martha’s Vineyard, MA
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hurricane_Edouard_(1996)
1996, during the night of Hurricane Edouard
41.344525,-70.828514

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

Their Haunting Witness

The faces of the people
screaming for justice
their voices sounding
from behind the frames
surrounded ever
by the silent witnesses
the ones who were killed
massacred for who they were
a people, a family
the children of David
wiped from a continent
in blind, unholy rage

September 3, 2010
on remembering
http://www.ushmm.org/
the United States Holocaust Museum
http://www.ushmm.org/museum/a_and_a/inside1/
in emails today



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

Because He Is God

So much we should gain from this
Christ holy, though of clay
because he is God
now as then
from the beginning of time

There at the creation
the word coming alive
birthed on the earth
to bring us to God
healing the breach for all time

September 3, 2010
as I read the title of the following poem
before posting it to Christianpoetry this morning,
I thought of the fact that Christ did all that he did
with his eyes seeing, knowing his fate,
before he came to earth
-------------------------
With his eyes seeing

awakening his slumber
the pain of his suffering
seeing the world, with eyes open to God
his sacrifice, his love shining
in the vision before him
able to see the world
as if for the first time
seeing sin from the
perspective of a father
grasping his mercy,
his love for us all
Choosing, as Christ did
the way of the cross
wanting no child
to bear such a terrible cost


November 18, 2009
http://www.theshackbook.com/
The Shack, by William P. Young
Chapter 11, “Here Come da Judge”



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

Because He Walked as a Man - 2

Christ understanding us
able to see through our eyes
offering his voice
before almighty God
Our intermediary
though holy, of clay
able to speak from our place
because he walked as a man

September 3, 2010
as I read the title of the following poem
before posting it to Christianpoetry this morning,
I thought of the fact that Christ did all that he did
with his eyes seeing, knowing his fate,
before he came to earth
-------------------------
With his eyes seeing

awakening his slumber
the pain of his suffering
seeing the world, with eyes open to God
his sacrifice, his love shining
in the vision before him
able to see the world
as if for the first time
seeing sin from the
perspective of a father
grasping his mercy,
his love for us all
Choosing, as Christ did
the way of the cross
wanting no child
to bear such a terrible cost


November 18, 2009
http://www.theshackbook.com/
The Shack, by William P. Young
Chapter 11, “Here Come da Judge”


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

Knowing

Stopping to ponder for a moment
the ultimate gift of Christ
descending from heaven
knowing his fate
his sacrifice
his death by those he would save
his death at the hands of man

September 3, 2010
as I read the title of the following poem
before posting it to Christianpoetry this morning,
I thought of the fact that Christ did all that he did
with his eyes seeing, knowing his fate,
before he came to earth
-------------------------
With his eyes seeing

awakening his slumber
the pain of his suffering
seeing the world, with eyes open to God
his sacrifice, his love shining
in the vision before him
able to see the world
as if for the first time
seeing sin from the
perspective of a father
grasping his mercy,
his love for us all
Choosing, as Christ did
the way of the cross
wanting no child
to bear such a terrible cost


November 18, 2009
http://www.theshackbook.com/
The Shack, by William P. Young
Chapter 11, “Here Come da Judge”

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

Giving to His Hands

Warming in his touch
feeling his guiding
giving to his hands
to clay to the potter

Ever living flesh
to be molded to his purpose
let me be giving
of my whole self to him

Following my master
loving his correction
turning toward my God
not to other graven idols

That we would be a people
an inheritance to treasure
not to be broken and scattered
saving only a remnant

September 2, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 16:10-20:18
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 27, 2010, read September 2, 2010
&
Isaiah 56:6-8
Isaiah 55:1-60:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 20, 2010, read August 30, 2010
&
earlier poem
-----------------------
In the Potter’s Hands

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

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


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

Ever Let Me be Clay

Ever let me be clay
never hardened to break
ever pliable to your touch
to the leading of your hands

Let me be wet
feeling the potters hands
ever molded to his needs
conformed to his holy plans

September 2, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 16:10-20:18
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 27, 2010, read September 2, 2010
&
Isaiah 56:6-8
Isaiah 55:1-60:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 20, 2010, read August 30, 2010
&
earlier poem
-----------------------
In the Potter’s Hands

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

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


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

Clay in the Potter’s Hands

When we puff ourselves up
go our separate ways
following other gods
led utterly astray
Forgetting our station
the distance from God
the creator of the universe
and we are dust,
clay in the potter’s hands


September 2, 2010
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 16:10-20:18
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 27, 2010, read September 2, 2010
&
Isaiah 56:6-8
Isaiah 55:1-60:9
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 20, 2010, read August 30, 2010
&
earlier poem
-----------------------
In the Potter’s Hands

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

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


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

The Crunch of the Grass

The brittle lawn
the early leaves
brown where green should be
under my feet

The crunch of the grass
far to audible
loudly breaking
as I walked to school

The air oppressive
spooned into my lungs
the sweat pouring
on the way home


September, 2010
about my walk to the
Pembroke Village School
Pembroke, NH
September 1, 2010
after school, in the high 90’s.


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

Gathering a Harvest

The fruits of the garden
ripe, ready for picking
gathering a harvest
from the good earth

Seeking to serve you
to pass on your glory
the gifts of your goodness
meaning to be shared

September 1, 2010

----------------

Workers in the Field

Oh to be workers in the field
harvesters of his bounty
gathering that which
others have sown
caring for the fields
others have planted
sowing our own seeds
of love, of faith
going where we are called
gathering in
a harvest of souls


March 29, 2010
Luke 10:2
and
Day 186, “Harvesters Needed”, 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 3/29/10



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

within his walls of salvation

Seeking to live
ever, always
within his walls of salvation
in the arms of his grace

Following your law
your call for our life
going the way of the cross
as did our brother the Christ


August 30, 2010 and September 1, 2010
Isaiah 60:18
Isaiah 60:10-65:25
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 21, 2010, read August 30, 2010


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

Through the gates of praise

Through the gates of praise
the way of the Christ
coming to you oh Lord
because of your grace

Seeking you ever
all of our days
longing to be with you
in the journey of life

Singing praises
for the wonder of you
seeking to please you
in all that we do

August 30, 2010 and September 1, 2010
Isaiah 60:18
Isaiah 60:10-65:25
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 21, 2010, read August 30, 2010


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

Conform to his law

Each of our hearts
the treasure of God
that we would change our ways
our hearts to him
conform to his law
all of our days

Not in empty words
falling to our knees
reciting text
others wrote for us
speaking with our hearts
with the substance of our days
looking to his law to guide our ways


September 1, 2010
Jeremiah 7:21-26
Jeremiah 5:20-8:22
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 24, 2010, read August 31, 2010


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

His holy word

His holy word
guiding our steps
that we may walk in His ways
that the word of God
would lead us on
all the days of our lives
Mindful of his calling
his commands on our hearts
telling the whole world
of his love for us

September 1, 2010
Jeremiah 7:21-26
Jeremiah 5:20-8:22
http://www.heartlight.org/cgi-shl/reading.cgi?plan=straight&ver=NAS
Heartlight’s Straight Through Bible Study
for August 24, 2010, read August 31, 2010


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

through this time of storms

through this time of storms
this wrinkle in the road
the change in our lives
a wonder to behold

God working in this time
bringing us closer yet
the smile in her little face
giving us rest

A plan being worked out
what we know, not yet
in his time to be revealed
in prayer and faithfulness

September 1, 2010
posting August 30, 2010
“Lifes Storms” on Ruth’s blog,
A Handmaiden of the Lord,
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2010/08/lifes-storms.html



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