Monday, February 07, 2011

Let Your Light Shine

Christ telling us
a loving commandment
to be the salt of the earth
emotive in our witness

To be the light to the world
to let your light shine
a beacon in the darkness
healing all of mankind

Only by sharing
the love of Christ
only by bearing
Christ to the world

God is counting on us
just as we count on him
to be his hands and feet
his voice in this world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

That My Light Might Shine

Turning to his call
the fire within
away from the world
that my life may begin

Alive in Christ
one candle burning
that my light might shine
into the darkness

Bearing my witness
my humble walk on earth
that I would ever remember
I am the salt of the earth


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

We pass on the light

Letting our light shine
not hiding our gifts
the words of our faith
rolling from our lips

Sharing how God has changed us
how Christ lifted us up
how we are led from destruction
by the depths of his love

We pass on the light
when we are the salt of the earth
humble in our witness
sharing the grace of Christ


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Be the Light to the World

Christ’s statement to us
that we are the salt of the earth
a light to the nations
to all those in need
that we are to witness
to share God’s love
to be the light to the world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Anyone Can Be Salt to the Earth

Christ, in his message
speaking to us gathered
with him on the mountain
sitting at our master’s feet

Listening intently
seeking to discern his message
how salt can remain salty
or lose its taste

Anyone can be
the salt of the earth
a light to the nations
not by royal birth

Each of us choosing
to offer true witness
how God grace changed us
healed us from within

How we are empowered
sharing Christ’s message
following his example
out into the world

All of us commissioned
to make more disciples
all of our common clay
yet the light to the world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Worth Our Salt

Worth our salt
remaining salty
salt of the earth
sharing our light
our witness truly
coming from our lives
offering hope
in ways authentic
sharing God’s love
to the ends of the earth


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Facets of Salt

Layers of meaning
facets of salt
faces of wisdom
like the faces of the crystals
something to remember
in reading the scripture
the message to be salt
salt of the earth
more than one meaning
the lesson to carry
to offer to the nations
authentic witness
a light to the world
bearing the Christ


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

The glint of the crystals

The mica in the granite
quartz, rosy or clear
jagged shards of beauty
drawing my eyes to come near

The rock of the field
formed in the stone wall
ancient and unmoving
yet yielding to the tree

The moving of the wall
ancient and unkept
covered in lichen
wondering where the years went

No longer holding in
an unused tangible border
left to the passerby
wandering through the forest


February 7, 2011


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Under the edge of the cliff

The bluff giving way
to the endless rhythm of the tides
the winds blowing roughly
leaving the roots behind

The bank of the cliff face eroding
the sand/clay giving way
under the edge of the cliff
the rosa rugosa falling away


February 7, 2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

The Green Sky

The green sky over the water
rising from the depth
beyond the bright horizon
far off to the east

After a night on the dunes
the grasses of the guard towers
the bunkers below us
entombed in concrete

The brilliance of the dawning
the water like the sky
alive with brilliant colors
the dew by our side

Lost in our own thoughts
silent this morning
the laughter of the evening waning
under the green sky dawning


February 7, 2011
a morning at Odiorne State Park
Rye, NH
either 1981 or 1982


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

More Salty

A lesson in the scripture
to live my life more salty
authentic in my witness
not bound by academe

Telling the world of your goodness
how you changed my life
bound to the earth
as I am made of clay
only by grace
am I light

God wanting us to be true
to be the salt of the earth
worthy in our witness
to everyone we meet

February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Within the wooden boxes

Off in the basement
beyond the cellar stairway
in the mist of the dust
the harbingers of time

Within the wooden boxes
kept in the corner
becoming one with the floor
the dirt wrapped around them

Ancient plates packed away
patterns of the past
the china of their parents
and those before them

In the wooden boxes
history of the families
the blossoms and the ribbon
under the dust the dirt

Kept for some future
stored in their basement
I wonder what has become of them
some in my china cabinet


February 7, 2011
the good china
in my grandparent’s basement
forty years or more ago
&
----
On the Earthen Ground

Down into their basement one day
treasures there abound
a collection of life kept safe
on the bare earthen ground

China of family long gone from this earth
beautiful in boxes packed
some of this now part of my home
a piece of them carried on

So many things,
the stuff of our lives
handed down from age to age
kept because of the memory
the connection with them
but things alone nonetheless


February 2, 2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Tasting the Spice

The salt of the earth
the song of our Savior
light to the world
a witness of love

Tasting the spice
the calling of our maker
to be the salt of the earth
his witness in the world

None of us special
common and authentic
made of the clay
the stuff of the earth

Our calling to be true
authentic in our speaking
our living out the calling
made to one and all

To be a light to the world
the beacon in the darkness
carrying the light
from our static place

To bear his light
into the darkness
cleansing hearts
with the balm of his word


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Melting the Ice

The metaphor profound
yet there before us
the ice giving way
to the salt of the earth

Spreading salt
on the path to your temple
the sand mixed in
to make the path clear

Melting ice
the darkness receding
our witness revealing
the love of the Christ

All of us worthy
salt of the earth
worthy of the message
to share our new birth

We are to go
to be a light to the nations
sharing God’s love
to the ends of the earth

The salt of the earth
not some prestigious group
each of us able
to be light to the world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Authentic Seasoning

Shining clearly
the light of our witness
shadows melting
as light streams through

Authentic seasoning
salt of the earth
common people
the source of new birth

Bearing Christ
carried on the lampstand
a beacon in the darkness
spreading his love

Offering our lives
the story of his presence
hope in the sharing
of God’s holy word


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

More Salt

Thinking about dinner
sitting around the table
how often we grab,
ask for the salt
how much stronger
how more tender
the seasoning we desire
there in the salt

To be salt of the earth
a light to the world
grounded in tradition
following your word
aching for more
that the taste would be sweeter
God’s love revealed
to the ends of the earth


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

You are the Light to the World

Christ’s words to me
to every one of us
You are the light of the world
the hope of all mankind

To shine through the confusion
the chaos of these days
showing the love of our Savior
all of our days

Christ’s voice in this time
his hands and feet now
witnesses to God’s grace
to the ends of the earth


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

We are to be salt

We are to be salt
authentic, consistent
speaking of hope
our choice to serve
to follow the Christ

We are to be salt
to season the world
witness to grace
his presence in our lives
showing us love
walking with us
out into the world
witness to his grace


February 6, 2011 and February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Sunday, February 06, 2011

On the Lampstand

Our light to shine
projecting into the darkness
up on the lampstand
not to be hidden

To offer hope
to the ends of the earth
bearing God’s love
out into this world


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Our Light Must Shine

Christ counting on us
to be salt to the earth
our light must shine
that others may live

The works of our hands
what we say
mirroring the Christ
every single day


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

I come to fulfill

The words should ring
in each believer’s ear
not to abolishing
but to fulfill

I come to fulfill
said the Christ
the law and the prophets
every word
nothing is lost

All will be judged
coming before the Christ
needing to live out his witness
to be salt to the earth


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

An Example to the Nations

Called by Christ
you and me
to be a light to the world
an example to the nations

By our lives, a witness
seeing our good works
living out the law
all of the prophets

Following the Christ
informed by his teaching
the guidance of his life
going the way of servanthood


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

You, and Me

Christ’s words,
speaking to us
as he did back then
With them on the mountain
sitting at his feet
hearing the Christ
speaking to us

You, and me
to be salt of the earth
light to the world
shining in the darkness
living out his call
with him fulfilling
all holiness


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Salt and Light

Nothing timid
vague or oblique
God’s message to us
to be salt to the earth

A light to the nations
up on the lampstand
shining for the world
to show us the way


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Go and Do Likewise

Having heard the lesson
who will be blessed
like the lawyer in the story
asking the Christ
how to live

Go and do likewise
like the first disciples
called to be the salt of the earth
the light from the highest heaven

Christ’s message to us
now as back then
in our time and place
to shine in this dark world

To lead by example
all of our days
our good works guiding
showing them the way


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Simpler than We Make It

Simpler than we make it
yet so hard to do
to follow our Savior
light to the whole world

To be the salt of the earth
bringing love to all
healing our brokenness
by answering his call


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

A Major Challenge

To live as God commands
to be salt to the earth
to take on the Christ
to be light to the world

A major challenge
to we who are so selfish
thinking of ourselves
seeking earthly treasure

To listen to Christ
to the words of his teachings
the whisper of the Spirit
calling us within

A major challenge
to be disciples
heeding his message
God’s call for our lives


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

A Holy Burden

Our challenge in life
a holy burden
to be salt to the earth
a light to the world
Carrying Christ
all of our days
offering hope
in our lives always


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

What We Share

The prayer of dedication
over the plates of offerings
what we share
is yours already
Our creator and our king

We pray that these would be a blessing
that someone will be lifted up
that what we share will be holy
a gift of eternal life


February 6, 2011
Prayer of Dedication
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

The bread I give is my body

The living bread
the lamb of God
so clear in his statement
choosing the way of the cross
sacrificing his life

The bread I give is my body
the wine my blood
broken and poured out
so that the world may live


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

They will live forever

The banquet of his sacrifice
his body and his blood
the breaking of the holy bread
the altar of the cross

Those who will eat the bread
remembering the truth
the power of his to save
the grace of God on earth

They will live forever
the children of the cross
those who would claim his name
the Lord of our days
the savior of our lives


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

If anyone eats this bread

The body of the savior
speaking while he was alive
the breaking of the bread
the piercing of his side

If anyone eats this bread
the sacrifice on the cross
taking him to ourselves
the promise of eternal life


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

To Her Advantage

Coming to tell me of her sister
stuck in the snow drift
the soft snow of this afternoon
perfect for the battle
forts and snowballs
to loose the dogs of war

Suddenly aware
of my statements
taking the initiative
the barrage in sudden waves

Taking to her advantage
the immobility of her sister
laughing at the carnage
until she herself was stuck

Sucked into the snow pile
well above their knees
extricated by their father
in peals of sudden glee


February 6, 2011
the girls about back today
Suncook, NH
February 1, 2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Worthily praise your name

In invocation, confession
speaking as one
standing in the congregation
confessing our sins to God

Praying that we may be changed
loving you with our whole hearts
worthily praising your name
our brother, our Savior, our God


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

With our whole self

Nothing held back
all of our lives worship
that we would love you
walking with your guiding
humble in our journey
committed wholly to you

With our whole self
giving you all our praises
seeking to be with you
to see you face to face
able to approach your throne

Only through your grace
longing for that day
when we will see you in glory
at the end of our days


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

That we may love you

Needing to shed ourselves
to wash in the Holy Spirit
to cast off the thoughts of our hearts
the things of this world

Help us Lord, we pray
to help us be worthy
that we may love you
with every fiber of our being
praising your holy name


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

No Secrets are Hidden

Not just what we say out loud
the musings of our hearts
no secrets are hidden
from our loving God

We are an open book
needing to be rewritten
conformed to his loving touch
to be worthy of heaven

Clean me of my stain
wash me with your blood
teach me how to live
to walk the way of the cross


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Cleanse the Thoughts of Our Hearts

Lord we pray, in your house
that we may feel your presence
cleanse the thoughts of our hearts
appoint us for heaven

Lead us from within
changing the walk of our days
guiding in how to live
that we would walk in your ways


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

All Desires Known

The number of my hairs
the days of my life
all desires known
the beatings of my heart

God sees into us
the coursing of our blood
all that we know or love
is seen from above

Change my ways, oh Lord
cleanse me from within
teach me how to live
that I may walk with Him


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

An Open Book

Known by God
an open book to the Lord
revealed in every action
every thought of my soul
Wanting to be worthy
though knowing only his grace
able to bring me to the Lord
to save me from the grave
my place by my own actions
even the stirrings of my heart
condemning me
my fate in his hands
bringing me from the pit
raising me up on eagle’s wings
healing me from within
An open book I want to be
worthy of his grace
but knowing only his love
will save me from myself


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781&notoc=1
Scout Sunday


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 25,480+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

All Hearts Revealed

We are exposed
an open book to God
all hearts revealed
known to the Lord

We should be seeking
yearning after him
walking in his ways
praising our Savior, our King

Heeding the call
the Spirit burning within
changing the path of our lives
that we may walk with him


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

All Hearts are Open

Nothing of us hidden
all hearts open to God
he knows our inner thoughts
the musings of our hearts

Change from the world
conform your lives to him
Walk with him in all things
praise his holy name


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

By Your Holy Spirit

The thoughts of the world
the way of the earth
our lives cleansed
by your Holy Spirit

Bringing us to You
informed by the calling
the voice speaking within us
calling us by name

Only in this giving
turning our lives over
able to worship You fully
forever and always


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

With the Same Purpose

United in love
walking with Christ
following our master
with the same purpose
sharing Christ’s message
to this damaged world
offering love
the balm of his word


February 5, 2011 and February 6, 2011
Matthew 4:18-23 (Common English Bible)
1 Corinthians 1:10-16 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 119:1-2 (Gods Word Translation)(Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Working Together for the Kingdom”
Prayer of Invocation,
from Lectionary Worship Aids, Cycle A)
and sermon, “We Can Work It Out”,
including Lectio Divina
(See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lectio_Divina)
on Matthew 5:13-16 (Common English Bible)
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 23, 2011
Third Sunday after Epiphany
&
Isaiah 49:1-7
John 1:29-42
Worship Theme: “Called by God to . . .”
and sermon, “A Light to the Nations”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 16, 2011
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Human Relations Sunday
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6KkNWLrH/b.3833821/k.5074/Special_Sunday__Human_Relations_Day__Overview.htm


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

With the Same Mind

Healed of our division
restored in the Christ
with the same mind
the way of God’s love

Together in the Spirit
living as one
holy is the name
of the one who came in love


February 5, 2011
Matthew 4:18-23 (Common English Bible)
1 Corinthians 1:10-16 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 119:1-2 (Gods Word Translation)(Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Working Together for the Kingdom”
Prayer of Invocation,
from Lectionary Worship Aids, Cycle A)
and sermon, “We Can Work It Out”,
including Lectio Divina
(See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lectio_Divina)
on Matthew 5:13-16 (Common English Bible)
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 23, 2011
Third Sunday after Epiphany
&
Isaiah 49:1-7
John 1:29-42
Worship Theme: “Called by God to . . .”
and sermon, “A Light to the Nations”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 16, 2011
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Human Relations Sunday
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6KkNWLrH/b.3833821/k.5074/Special_Sunday__Human_Relations_Day__Overview.htm


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Be Restored

Conformed to Christ’s teaching
be restored, transformed
united in love
serving in his name

Working as one
all of us needed
gifted for a purpose
serving in his name


February 5, 2011
Matthew 4:18-23 (Common English Bible)
1 Corinthians 1:10-16 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 119:1-2 (Gods Word Translation)(Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Working Together for the Kingdom”
Prayer of Invocation,
from Lectionary Worship Aids, Cycle A)
and sermon, “We Can Work It Out”,
including Lectio Divina
(See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lectio_Divina)
on Matthew 5:13-16 (Common English Bible)
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 23, 2011
Third Sunday after Epiphany
&
Isaiah 49:1-7
John 1:29-42
Worship Theme: “Called by God to . . .”
and sermon, “A Light to the Nations”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 16, 2011
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Human Relations Sunday
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6KkNWLrH/b.3833821/k.5074/Special_Sunday__Human_Relations_Day__Overview.htm


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Don’t be Divided

The stakes too important
souls of our brothers
our sisters, our neighbors
all over the world

Don’t be divided
stand together
serving as one
as if yoked together

With each other
and with the Christ
walking boldly
being his light


February 5, 2011 and February 6, 2011
Matthew 4:18-23 (Common English Bible)
1 Corinthians 1:10-16 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 119:1-2 (Gods Word Translation)(Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Working Together for the Kingdom”
Prayer of Invocation,
from Lectionary Worship Aids, Cycle A)
and sermon, “We Can Work It Out”,
including Lectio Divina
(See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lectio_Divina)
on Matthew 5:13-16 (Common English Bible)
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 23, 2011
Third Sunday after Epiphany
&
Isaiah 49:1-7
John 1:29-42
Worship Theme: “Called by God to . . .”
and sermon, “A Light to the Nations”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 16, 2011
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Human Relations Sunday
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6KkNWLrH/b.3833821/k.5074/Special_Sunday__Human_Relations_Day__Overview.htm


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Agree with each other

Stand together
be of one mind
one purposes in our Savior
in the name of Christ

Agree with each other
working as one
lifting up our neighbors
in the name of Christ


February 5, 2011
Matthew 4:18-23 (Common English Bible)
1 Corinthians 1:10-16 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 119:1-2 (Gods Word Translation)(Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Working Together for the Kingdom”
Prayer of Invocation,
from Lectionary Worship Aids, Cycle A)
and sermon, “We Can Work It Out”,
including Lectio Divina
(See: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lectio_Divina)
on Matthew 5:13-16 (Common English Bible)
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 23, 2011
Third Sunday after Epiphany
&
Isaiah 49:1-7
John 1:29-42
Worship Theme: “Called by God to . . .”
and sermon, “A Light to the Nations”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/group.php?gid=136632035559
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 16, 2011
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Human Relations Sunday
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6KkNWLrH/b.3833821/k.5074/Special_Sunday__Human_Relations_Day__Overview.htm


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Saturday, February 05, 2011

Like the Stones from the Wadi

The videotaped footage
the struggle in Cairo
factions lining up
in Tahrir Square
Like the stones from the wadi
gathered by David
thrown against the giant
to save the whole nation
Will history see
the same struggle
the small shepherd boy
against the amassed armies
the fear of repression
the subjugation of a people
in the tumult of today
will we hear the same echoes
What will the lessons be
of the stones being hurled
will the same be said
will we have heard
what will become
of the cries of the peoples
who will they sing of
in the retelling someday
of what happened on the plain of battle
when the small protestors
stood against the giant



================
edited November 13, 2015
Like the Stones from the Wadi – v5
(editing version 3)
edited November 1, 2015
Like the Stones from the Wadi – v4
Edited September 13, 2013 and September 14, 2013
Like the Stones from the Wadi – v3
Edited August 11, 2013
“Like the Stones from the Wadi – v2”
February 5, 2011
Like the Stones from the Wadi
&
a prayer for Egypt
and see
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
&
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog 
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”


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 (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,620+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Will of God

That the will of God
would be seen
in the transformation
the hopes of the people
that the rulers, the leaders
would turn to the almighty
that the hearts of the faithful
would have reason to sing

All of the work
the hearts open
crying for justice
where there had been none
wishing for a change
in the life of each nation
guided by love, peace
not the corruption of power

Not to be decided
the form of transition
by outside forces
in some star chamber
organic change
humbly, in discernment
the wish of almighty
Allah, God


February 5, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Tahrir Revolution ثورة التحرير

Holy Protest

May the aspirations
the hopes of the peoples
may we be witnessing
holy protest

May the people remain united
non-violent witnesses
may the tyrants crumble
into the dust of time

May the shackles be lifted
the chains of oppression
may they all breath free
in the light of your love

Oh Lord, my Savior
watch over your people
yearning to breathe free
this very day


February 5, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

May this be a Beginning

For all of these peoples
those under oppression
a prayer that we are witnessing
that this may be a beginning
of freedom for all peoples
that the chains of the dictators
the rulers without conscience
that the days of the masters
may be at an end

Hope that this will be peaceful
the transformations unending
that love would rain down
like a cleansing storm
that the chains would be broken
by love, non-violence
that the world would speak as one
out of the wellsprings of love


February 5, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Shaking off Their Shackles

Standing in the square
fighting against repression
no longer silent
the rising of the nation

Shaking off their shackles
even if in danger
standing against the giant
the ruler of the nation

Ready to die
to not hide, complacent
in the streets, in the square
a prayer for rejuvenation

Leading out
the whole world watching
the tyrants cannot still
the beating of their hearts

The fire growing
even in the mist of the rains
the whole world waiting
for the change that is to come

A prayer for peace
a healing for this people
change too slow for some
but it is on the way


February 5, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Rain in the Square

The news in Cairo
rain in the square
may it soften the hearts
of the oppressors
over there

Wash them clean
heal the brokenness
lift up their spirits
those fighting
dying for their freedom


February 5, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

May the Church be a Voice

Rise up believers
shout with them
may the church be a voice
for justice for the people

Tell the nations
this must end
violence, oppression
may not stand

Open your eyes,
your voices
you people
stand with them resolute
convicted by our silence


February 5, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Friday, February 04, 2011

Unique only to me

In discerning my call
what God would have me do
needing to find the gifts
unique only to me

Those things I have been given
to lift up my neighbors
to bring them closer to God
to share in his goodness

His love for all of us
to the ends of the earth
yet so many times I stumble
though I hear your voice

Fearful, not fully trusting
in you my God
how will I make it
how will I survive
Needing to be more faithful
that you will continue to provide


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Trusting God

Nothing more than this
to stand before the giants
trusting Go to be there
to stand with us in battle

Only needing our gifts
the gifts from almighty God
using them for His work
humbly before the Lord

Serving our neighbors
reaching out the them
using the gifts we have been given
offering them in love


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Unique Gifts

Like out fingerprints
unique just to us
God gifting each one
unique gifts for the world
each of us a part to play
lifting the kingdom up


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

His Strong Trust in God

Able to slay the giant
to stand in the field of battle
his strong trust in God
not in the king’s armor

We all must be like David
shedding our fetters
real to our own true selves
using our gifts from God

All of us can stand
if we trust in him
sharing love with our neighbors
the love of our savior
to the ends of the earth


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

An Ache for a People

Watching the violence, helpless
an ache for a whole people
convulsing in revolution
living in the maelstrom

Defiant and courageous
torn from their past
seeking a world of promise
in the thing we hope will last

Watching the violence, helpless
a half a world away
praying for peace in that kingdom
let it come today


February 4, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Gifts to be used for the kingdom – v2

Not the stones, the sling
gifts to be used for the kingdom
to use our specific blessings
gifts belonging to us
to us and us alone

Not someone else’s
ours to carry into battle
sure of God’s provision
gifts he gives us
all we will ever need


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Gifts to be used for the kingdom

Not the stones, the sling
gifts to be used for the kingdom
to use our specific blessings
those gifts belonging to you, to me

Not someone else’s
ours to carry into battle
sure of God’s provision
in the gifts he gives us
all we would ever need


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

He threw off the armor of man

David standing naked
humble before the giant
He threw off the armor of man
and trusted in God instead

Knowing he would be safe
as when fighting the bear, the lion
going into battle
wearing the armor of God


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

With his sling in his hand – v2

David’s witness
more than the stones
with his sling in his hands
entering battle with the giant

Casting off the armor
trusting in God’s providing
authentic to his calling
sure of God’s protection

His gifts enough
standing before the giant
letting the stone fly
saving his whole nation


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

With his sling in his hand

David’s witness
more than the stones
with his sling in his hands
entering into battle

Casting off the armor
trusting in God’s providing
authentic to his calling
trusting in God’s protection

His gifts enough
standing before the giant
letting the stone fly
saving his whole nation


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Five Smooth Stones


Reaching down
picking up his tools
five smooth stones
to stand before the giant
 
Trusting in God
in the strength he had given
gifts enough for him
to meet him in battle
 

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

February 4, 2011

Five Smooth Stones

https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2011/02/five-smooth-stones.html

February 4, 2011

Smooth Stones

https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2011/02/smooth-stones.html

1 Samuel 17:38-40

Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”

on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’

A Handmaiden of the Lord blog

Suncook United Methodist Church

Suncook, NH

February 2, 2011

&

1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50

Hebrews 12:1

Upper Room Daily Devotional

for February 1, 2011

“Borrowed Equipment”

http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

 

Christ, Faith, God, grace, love, Pastor Ruth L. Foss, Poetry Where You Live, Raymond A. Foss, calling, David, armor, 1 Samuel 17, protection, Hebrews 12,

 

#poetry #Christ #Faith #God #grace #love #calling #David #armor #1Samuel17 #protection #Hebrews12

 

 

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

 

Stripped of Man’s Armor – v2

Standing before Goliath
resolute, confident
trusting in God
Stripped of man’s armor
casting it down
slaying the giant
with his gifts from the Lord


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Stripped of Man’s Armor

Standing before Goliath
resolute, confident
trusting in God
Stripped of man’s armor
casting it down
slaying the giant
with his gifts from almighty God



February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Stones before Me


Before the screen
the space for the papers
where I write
writing for his glory

Stones before me
to remind me
of the gifts from God
given especially to me


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord blog
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Smooth Stones

Something of the weight
the feeling in my palm
smooth stones from the wadi
to bring the giant down

Five stones placed on the desk
before the computer screen
reminding me of God’s provision
all that I ever need


February 4, 2011
1 Samuel 17:38-40
Posting: “I'll Wear My Own Suit Thank You. . .”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/02/ill-wear-my-own-siut-thank-you.html
on Pastor Ruth Foss'
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
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

February 2, 2011
&
1 Samuel 17:32-40, 50
Hebrews 12:1
Upper Room Daily Devotional
for February 1, 2011
“Borrowed Equipment”
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=01&year=2011

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 19,940+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.