Saturday, April 23, 2011

The cross is where victory happened

In the cross, the grave
in the death and resurrection
this is where victory happened
Christ defeating death
We may rise, we may live again
in the arms of our Savior
redeeming us from the lost.


April 23, 2011
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000649621023
including discussion of Saint Faustina
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Faustina_Kowalska
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,580+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

death, like any other man

Christ dying
death, like any other man
yet not the end
rising, in victory
the cross, the grave
would not hold him
rising in victory
giving us our freedom


==================
edited February 6, 2016
Death, like any other man – v3
(editing version 2)
Edited December 15, 2013
death, like any other man – v2
April 23, 2011
death, like any other man
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
including discussion of Saint Faustina
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,960+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.


The words on the cross

The words on the cross
the prayers of our savior
back to the hymns
the hymns of God’s people
Praying to God
holding them up
prayers for salvation
drinking from the cup



April 23, 2011
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000649621023
including discussion of Saint Faustina
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Faustina_Kowalska
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,570+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Rescue Me Quickly

Lord, I beseech you
I pray you would hear me
rescue me quickly
from the pit
from death
let me be raised up
let me live again


April 23, 2011
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000649621023
including discussion of Saint Faustina
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Faustina_Kowalska
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,570+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Into God’s Hands - 3

Committing himself
his body in the garden
his spirit on the cross
into God’s hands

Offering his all
that we would be given
mercy from the Father
from the love of God


April 23, 2011
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000649621023
including discussion of Saint Faustina
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Faustina_Kowalska
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by 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
April 20, 2011
Lent

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Message of Trust

A message of trust
of complete fulfillment
in finishing what had begun
submitting in the garden

Christ offering up
his witness, his spirit
trusting in God
for his body and soul


April 23, 2011
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000649621023
including discussion of Saint Faustina
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Faustina_Kowalska
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,570+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The prayer in the Garden

The prayer in the garden
and the last of the words
spoken by Jesus
hanging on the cross

The beginning and end
the body and the spirit
Christ submitting both
into the hands of almighty God



April 23, 2011
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000649621023
including discussion of Saint Faustina
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mary_Faustina_Kowalska
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by 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
April 20, 2011
Lent

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Race Run

The race run
the journey complete
walking humbly
faithful to God

Christ dying
hanging on the cross
giving his life
that we may not be lost

Choosing to die
to become the sacrifice
finishing what he started
no matter the cost


April 23, 2011
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,570+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

turned over to others

the work to continue
the message of love
but for him it is finished
the walk on this earth

turned over to others
to each in their time
to you and me, unworthy
but witnesses to God


April 23, 2011
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,570+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Work Done

His part fulfilled
his walk on this earth
what he had come to do
the work done
save for his death
the lamb, the sacrifice
the son of our God


April 23, 2011
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

As if these were God’s words

Sharing the words I am given
using my gifts, my talents
sharing them freely
to the ends of the earth
As if these were God’s words
spoken from the mouth of God
Christ’s message of salvation
to the ends of the earth


April 23, 2011
1 Peter 4:10:11


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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

As if these were God’s words

Sharing the words I am given
using my gifts, my talents
sharing them freely
to the ends of the earth
As if these were God’s words
spoken from the mouth of God
Christ’s message of salvation
to the ends of the earth


April 23, 2011
1 Peter 4:10:11


All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,570+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Another Congregation

After his dying
taken from the cross
buried in the earth
descending to the dead

Another congregation
touched by the hand of God
the dead able to be raised
by the love of Christ


April 23, 2011
Luke 23:55
Luke 23:50-56
1 Peter 4:6
after the crucifixion
Good Friday and Holy Saturday
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 23, 2011
read April 23, 2011
Holy Week
Holy Saturday

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,570+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Truth Called Blasphemy

Blind to who he was
those who should know
blind to the man standing before them
the Son of the living God

The truth when he claimed his name
Messiah, the great I Am
yet called blasphemy,
denying the King
a crown of thorns instead



April 22, 2011 and April 23, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
by 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
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
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
April 22, 2010

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Hour Has Come

The hour has come
the betrayer is at hand
the journey has begun
the descent to torture
and death
and yet the battle won



April 22, 2011 and April 23, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,560+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

We Run Away – v2

We run away
just like them
denying our King, our God
too afraid to stand in the breach
to trust in his name

Cowards, timid
scattered, like seeds
running away in fear
unworthy to claim his name
only by grace redeemed


April 23, 2011
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,560+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

We Run Away – v1

Like them
so scared
unwilling to stand up
to stand out
to hold fast to his name

When we doubt
when the winds come
danger stalking us
hiding in the night
not shining the light of Christ



April 22, 2011 and April 23, 2011
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010


All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,560+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Mocking Our King

The hired hands
the thief on the cross
those who could not see
mocking our king
the living God
the lamb upon the altar

They could not see
they did not believe
the fulfillment of the Word
Christ came to save
but they denied his name
just as had been foretold

He took on our sin
the stain of our shame
becoming the sacrifice
walking in
the way of the Lord
Dying that we may live
humble, to the cross



April 23, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,560+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Friday, April 22, 2011

Drops of Blood

Drops of blood
like the pressed olives
heavy, falling
Gethsemane wet
with the sweat
the anguish
the pain of Christ



April 22, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Reverend Huntley Halvorson

by Pastor Ruth Foss
A Handmaiden of the Lord
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil

Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH

April 22, 2010


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,310+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

So You Say

The accusation
foreshadowing
foretelling betrayal
So you say
said the master
to the statement
of the denial of Judas
sealing the moment
dripping with dread



April 22, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010


All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,560+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

he had done no wrong

unlike the others
he had done no wrong
faithful to God’s calling
to his law

There on the cross
the lamb
the son
healing us all
the victory won


April 22, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010


All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,560+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

in the gathering shadows

The world closing in
gathered in silence
in the gathering shadows
we begin

The day of his dying
his sacrifice
all of us thinking
at the terrible cost

The Savior dying
to redeem us from death
going to the cross, the grave
to give us new life

The end doesn’t solve this
the pain that we feel
knowing our Savior died
to set us free



April 22, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,560+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Blowing Out the Light of the World

A concerted act of will
the last candle burning
needing to be extinguished
yet laden with meaning
rich, in remembrance
difficult for her

Blowing out the candle
the light of the world
the last breath of our Savior
descending to the pit


April 22, 2011
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
John 12:47b; John 13:1b (Assurance of Foregiveness)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50, 55, 56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There… (United Methodist Hymnal #288)
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2010

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Sour wine for his thirst

Sour wine for his thirst
given to our Lord
fulfilling the ancient word
the lament of David
of the people of the book
shared in his anguish
spoken from the cross


April 22, 2011
I thirst
(John 19:28).
Psalm 69:21
Psalm 69
written during prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2011
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent



All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Looking Up Into His Face

Looking up at the cross
into the face of Jesus
my weight on my knees
humbly singing your praises

Overwhelmed by the enormity
your grace upon me
giving me your spirit
causing me to sing

Tears in your eyes
how you must have grieved
for all humanity
alone on Calvary.


April 22, 2011
written during prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2011
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Our Own Mortality

Two men, having earned
their penalty
the judgment of the law
too late to repent
too late for sacrifice
too late to live
a new life

Yet here we find mercy
the forgiveness of sin
the reward of the humble
eternity to begin

In paradise with our Savior
the gift of the cross
in turning, redemption
being saved from the lost.



April 22, 2011
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
written during prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2011
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

In Paradise with Him

Even in dying
while dying on the cross
the Prodigal turning
turning back to God

Christ’s answer
in paradise with him
reclaiming the sinner
while he was dying with him


April 22, 2011
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
written during prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2011
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Despair for a Purpose

Christ dying, mortal
a common human experience
the end of our lives
to be able to minister
to speak of our sorrow
our sense of great loss
faithful in dying
in going to the cross


April 22, 2011
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
written during prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2011
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Eyes Under the Sharp Thorns

Christ’s eyes watching
under the sharp thorns
a window sharing
an image of God
Sharing a message
bearing his witness
a love for all man
going to the cross


April 22, 2011
Matthew 27:45
Mark 15:33
Luke 23:44
Matthew 27:27-54
&
Prayer Vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 22, 2011
Good Friday
Holy Week
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Same Attitude

Christ’s purpose
in showing us the way
teaching of the love of God
our neighbors’ load lightened
that we would have
the same attitude as Christ
when they do us wrong
forgiving them of their sin
their transgression
humble in our walk
our path in this life


April 22, 2011
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
written during Prayer vigil
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,550+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Proof in His Forgiveness

Something none of us could do
forgiving those who killed us
all the people on the earth
the believers and the doubters
Proof in his forgiveness
the holiness of Jesus
going to the cross
by his choosing
taking on our sin, our shame
absolved of our transgressions
forgiven, all just the same
while he was dying
hanging on the cross



April 22, 2011
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
written during Prayer vigil
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,540+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Alone, On the Cross

Out of the darkness
the humanness of Christ
a cry to the Father
yet alone, on the cross

Christ in that moment
alone, in the dark

Out of the darkness
the depths of despair
echoing our lament,
Christ meets us there.


April 22, 2011
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
Psalm 22:1
written at prayer vigil
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,540+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Absence of God

Alone, in the dark
the absence of God
alone on the cross
wrapped in despair

Going to the cross
submitting to death
able to minister
by going to the depths.


April 22, 2011
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
Psalm 22:1
written at prayer vigil
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,540+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Did he see my face

My Savior on the cross
becoming the sacrifice
Did he see my face
as he uttered those words of grace?

“Forgive him, Father,
for he knows not what he does”,
straying from your holiness
the way of our sovereign Lord

Did he see my face
when my sin transferred
the stain of my shame
was placed upon the lamb?



April 22, 2011
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
written during Prayer vigil
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by 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
April 20, 2011
Lent

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Darkness fell across the whole land

Shrouded, under the veil
darkness fell across the whole earth
over the rugged cross
The sky black, like sackcloth
Christ paying our cost
hanging alone,
in suffering
that we would be saved from death
that we would not be lost.


April 22, 2011
Matthew 27:45
Mark 15:33
Luke 23:44
Matthew 27:27-54
&
Prayer Vigil
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
April 22, 2011
Good Friday
Holy Week
Lent

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Day Christ Died for Me

In the hush of the empty room
muffled sounds outdoors
a stillness in this place
Quiet in the storm

The day Christ died for me
time set apart
crying within the veil
our Savior on the cross.


April 22, 2011
Matthew 27:45
Mark 15:33
Luke 23:44
Matthew 27:27-54
&
Prayer Vigil
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
April 22, 2011
Good Friday
Holy Week
Lent

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In that Time of Darkness

Sitting in Quietude
in that time of darkness
after noon on that day
when Christ was on the cross

Darkness all around
the world draped in black
the nations crying
our Savior on the cross.


April 22, 2011
Matthew 27:45
Mark 15:33
Luke 23:44
Matthew 27:27-54
&
Prayer Vigil
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
April 22, 2011
Good Friday
Holy Week
Lent

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Ripped

Ripped torn
asunder
the separation
heaven and earth
people and God
shaken
in the moment of his death
Jesus dying
Christ alive
the curtain torn
top to bottom
the breach of Adam
of our sin
atonement
repentance
let us begin
new life, union
our shepherd
leading, restoring
bringing us back to God.


April 22, 2011
Matthew 27:51
Matthew 27:43-54
crucifixion
Good Friday
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 22, 2011
read April 22, 2011
Holy Week

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,540+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Only Christ

None others, only Christ
in a position to condemn
and yet he forgave
each of our failing
our hands on his head
going to the cross
paying our price instead



April 21, 2011
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Psalm 116:1-2. 12-19
Luke 22:19
and meditation by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 21, 2011
Maundy Thursday
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,540+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Hands of a Servant - 2

My daughter,
my sister
washed by her hands
in remembrance
of that holy night
by the hands of a servant
I am washed clean



April 21, 2011
Shanequa washing my feet
&
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Psalm 116:1-2. 12-19
Luke 22:19
and meditation by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
April 21, 2011
Maundy Thursday
Lent

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Bound by the Meal

Bound by the meal
the bread and the cup
the simple mean
countless times
repeated, in remembrance
the thread that binds
one to another
bound by the meal
shared together
for all time



April 21, 2011
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Psalm 116:1-2. 12-19
Luke 22:19
and meditation by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 21, 2011
Maundy Thursday
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,540+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Becoming the Lamb

Becoming the lamb
the sacrifice
Christ gave himself
paying the cost for us

Going to the cross
given into their hands
those who would slay him
killing the Son of Man



April 21, 2011
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
Psalm 116:1-2. 12-19
Luke 22:19
and meditation by Reverend Huntley Halvorson

Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 21, 2011
Maundy Thursday
Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 27,390+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Thursday, April 21, 2011

Mercy on Her

His focus on her, on this brother
her son dying
the youngest apostle
loving them both
binding them together
the pain of her son
dying on the cross
the loss of the one loved
the master dying
but his thoughts
his love for them
mercy pouring down
from the one on the cross.



April 20, 2011
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27)
(written as Father Crowley was preaching on this word).
part of
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

the depth of his forgiveness

Christ offering his witness
the grace within him
changing our lives
the depth of his forgiveness
mercy unending
praying to the Father
even on the cross
His prayers for us
that we may not be lost.



April 21, 2011
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Because We Have Faith

Stopping to check in
to talk with my neighbor
my brother, suffering
to make his ends meet

The economy, the pressures
the difficult circumstances
yet we both were affirming
because we have faith

The struggles, the trials
the grist of this life
still there for believers
but with a strength deep inside

If we turn to Jesus
on that strong foundation
our hope in our Savior
and our peace in the storms


April 21, 2011
conversation at the gas station
April 21, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Stepping Forward

In the garden
that night
darkness growing
with torches ablaze
Christ stepping forward
claiming His name
I Am, He
the one that you seek



April 21, 2011
John 18:6
John 18:1-16
Matthew 26:41
Matthew 26:36-46
Garden of Gethsemane
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 21, 2011
read April 21, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Wednesday, April 20, 2011

Sermon, "It is Finished", by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, Suncook United Methodist Church, April 20, 2011

Pastor Ruth Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
April 20, 2011
Seven Last Words
It is finished
John 19:30

“It Is Finished!”

It is finished. . . it is finished. . . These words make me think of one of our daughters and a conversation I had with her last week. I was talking with my daughter Shyanne last week about her project for school. She was working on a poster and she thought she needed to have it done sooner than what it actually due by. . . and we all know how infrequently that happens with kids. . . and so she was bringing it to school and one of her friends told her that it wasn’t due for another week. Well. . . all the next week she had put in her planner that she had to complete the poster. . . because that is what was on the board. . . and each night she has happily explained. . . ”It is finished.” She was done. . . she had completed the assignment and now she can be overjoyed at having it done. I am sure that we all have had those times In our lives that we have been overjoyed about something being “finished.” It can give us a sense of accomplishment. We are happy that the task is done. We can “move on. . . ” so to speak! I can only imagine how Jesus must have felt from the cross. . .

Jesus had spent His time on earth ministering to others, healing the sick and giving sight to the blind. He came to teach a radical new way of living. When Jesus was hung on the cross, the people around Him thought that His ministry, His work on earth was done. They saw who they believed as the Messiah on that tree and thought their hope for salvation was gone. But they were wrong. Even from the cross He continued to minister and heal those around Him and prayed for others. Just because He was on the cross didn’t mean He was done with ministry. These are some of His last words from the cross. . . at the end of His ministry on earth. . . that made an everlasting impact on humanity. His biggest ministry on earth was when He said “it is finished” from the cross. At this point He was taking on the sins of “all who have fallen short of the grace of God”. . . this was the finale of His ministry. . . this was one of the most important pivotal points for you. . . for me. . . for all who believe. You see. . . this is what happened with Jesus’ “It is finished”. . . and what it mean for you and me:

• It is finished. . . the curtain is was torn from top to bottom. . . the curtain that separated us from God. . . no longer was access to the throne of grace through mere mortal men but through our High Priest, Jesus Christ
• It is finished. . . the gap that was formed by the First Adam was now bridged by the Second Adam. . . through His cross we have a renewed relationship with God
• It is finished. . . the tombs of sin and death are now open and new life is offered.
• It is finished. . . Jesus’ body was destroyed but now He lives on in each and every believer
• It is finished. . . Jesus went to the cross to conquer sin and death and on the third-day He did just that
• It is finished. . . loves work is done
• It is finished. . . Jesus’ purpose is now fulfilled. . . it is finished when Jesus says it’s finished not when man decrees
• It is finished. . . it is finished. . . praise God from whom all blessings flow
• It Is Finished!

Church. . . we have a responsibility to Jesus’ “it is finished.” You see. . . His ministry lives on through you and through me. As we journey in faith and love we are called for a purpose. We must follow that purpose and one day. . . when we are at the end of our journey. . . we too will say. . . “It is finished”

Amen?!

==================
edited February 6, 2016
Death, like any other man – v3
(editing version 2)
Edited December 15, 2013
death, like any other man – v2
April 23, 2011
death, like any other man
Father, into your hands I commit my spirit
(Luke 23:46).
Luke 22:39-46
Mark 14:32-42
Matthew 26:36-56
Garden of Gethsemane
Psalm 31
& sermon by Reverend Jim Howard
including discussion of Saint Faustina
&
Seven Last Words Ecumenical Service
Father forgive them, for they know not what they do
(Luke 23:34).
Truly, I say to you, today you will be with me in paradise
(Luke 23:43)
Woman, behold your son: behold your mother
(John 19:26-27).
My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?
(Matthew 27:46 and Mark 15:34).
I thirst
(John 19:28).
It is finished
(John 19:30).
and sermon: “It is Finished”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 20, 2011
Lent

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,960+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.


Suncook United Methodist Church - 4/20/2011




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


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Divine Appointments

Not coincidences
divine appointments
moments of grace
God’s hand guiding
a smile upon our face
in recognition
sometimes years later
God took me to this place
washed in his amazing grace



April 20, 2011
on the poetry presentation
http://www.slideshare.net/raymondafoss/poetry-where-you-live-repriseat New Hampshire Technical Institute
April 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Christ’s Prayer in the Garden

Sweat heavy,
falling like blood
alone in the night
in a space set apart

Christ’s prayer in the garden
to not drink from the cup
but humble, a servant
submitting to God

Taking on our wages
the pain of suffering
taking our stain
the cost of our sin

Christ’s prayer in the garden
to not drink from the cup
but humble, a servant
submitting to God



April 20, 2011
Matthew 26:39
Matthew 26:42
Matthew 26:44
Matthew 26:36-46
Luke 22:44
Garden of Gethsemane
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 20, 2011
read April 20, 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 21,760+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Our Weak Flesh

Christ’s plea
facedown in the garden,
Gethsemane
that the cup might be taken;
but submitting to God

How like the disciples
wanting to be faithful
asleep in our walk
our walk on this earth

Our weak flesh
our faith so timid
heeding the winds
our trials in this life
drawing us in

We need to follow
to trust in God’s strength
the example of Jesus
praying for guidance
and submitting to God
his body, his all.



April 20, 2011
Matthew 26:41
Matthew 26:36-46
Garden of Gethsemane
(and Matthew 14:22-31
walking on water)
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 20, 2011
read April 20, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

just a little farther - v2

Into the darkness
deeper, setting himself apart
just a little farther
his praying to start

A prayer from the heart
to the heart of God
that the cup may be taken
but submitting to God

Accepting God’s answer
yet praying again
that het cup may be taken
but loving us always

Christ in the garden
making his plea
that the cup may be taken
but drinking it for me.



April 20, 2011
Matthew 26:39
Matthew 26:36-46
Garden of Gethsemane
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 20, 2011
read April 20, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

just a little farther - v1

Into the darkness
deeper, setting himself apart
just a little farther
his praying to start

A prayer from the heart
to the heart of God
that the cup may be taken
but submitting to God

Accepting God’s answer
yet praying again
that het cup may be taken
but loving us always

Christ in the garden
making his plea
that the cup may be taken
but setting us free



April 20, 2011
Matthew 26:39
Matthew 26:36-46
Garden of Gethsemane
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 20, 2011
read April 20, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted 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.
See all 11,530+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

the foulest drink

the cup of suffering
put to his lips
the stain of our sin
our hands upon him
transferring our guilt
judgment on him
becoming the lamb
going to the slaughter
the altar, the cross



April 20, 2011
Matthew 26:39
Matthew 26:42
Matthew 26:44
Matthew 26:36-46
Garden of Gethsemane
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 20, 2011
read April 20, 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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Like the Wings of a Songbird




Like the wings of a songbird
the wood chips/driftwood
sitting on the sand
far from the shore
yet driftwood just the same
feathered and layered
replicating the design
the love of the creator
like the wings of the songbird
drawing our eyes
to the beauty of his hand


April 19, 2011
Pembroke Village School
Pembroke, NH
April 19, 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 21,760+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.