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, September 30, 2011
Gould Hill Farm. cross-country race 9/30/2011
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.
Let this be the Peaceable Kingdom – v2
Predator will lie down with their prey
all will eat grass, all will be at peace
so the words of the prophet foretell a time
when worries of the world will fade to nothingness
when we will all live together harmoniously
Jesse’s shoot, up from the cut stump
He will reign forevermore
Let this be the peaceable kingdom now, Oh Lord,
May we be the generation when peace shall reign
and justice will come to this troubled earth
May we be the people who will bend
fighting spears into pruning hooks
Where war will be known no more
Help us Lord we pray
that the madness would cease
that the killing would end
that violence would stop
edited September 30, 2011
December 9, 2007
Raymond A. Foss
Isaiah 11:1-10
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
all will eat grass, all will be at peace
so the words of the prophet foretell a time
when worries of the world will fade to nothingness
when we will all live together harmoniously
Jesse’s shoot, up from the cut stump
He will reign forevermore
Let this be the peaceable kingdom now, Oh Lord,
May we be the generation when peace shall reign
and justice will come to this troubled earth
May we be the people who will bend
fighting spears into pruning hooks
Where war will be known no more
Help us Lord we pray
that the madness would cease
that the killing would end
that violence would stop
edited September 30, 2011
December 9, 2007
Raymond A. Foss
Isaiah 11:1-10
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Living Water, the Stain of His Blood – v2
Our altar this morning draped,
brightened by living water,
by the royal stain of His blood, crimson
vivid shimmering color, textured, flowing
beside the open bible,
below the brass cross, lighted candles
a foretaste, a mere hint of the grandeur,
the hem, the robe of the Creator,
filling Your temple with grace,
filling us with love
brightened by living water,
by the royal stain of His blood, crimson
vivid shimmering color, textured, flowing
beside the open bible,
below the brass cross, lighted candles
a foretaste, a mere hint of the grandeur,
the hem, the robe of the Creator,
filling Your temple with grace,
filling us with love
edited
March 23, 2015
Living
Water, the Stain of His Blood – v8
(editing
version 4)
Revised August 13, 2013
Living Water, the Stain of
His Blood – v7
(editing version 2)
Edited October 11, 2012
“Living Water, the Stain
of His Blood – v6”
(editing version 2)
Edited
September 20, 2012
“Living
Water, the Stain of His Blood – v5”
(editing
version 3)
Edited
September 20, 2012
“Living
Water, the Stain of His Blood – v4”
(editing
version 2)
&
edited June 6, 2012
Isaiah 6:1-8
Isaiah 6:1-8
“Living
Water, the Stain of His Blood – v3”
(editing
version 1 again)
&
revised
September 30, 2011
“Living
Water, the Stain of His Blood – v2”
&
October
19, 2008
“Living
Water, the Stain of His Blood”
Pastor
Ruth Foss
sermon
blog
meditation
blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
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, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 36,680+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Fear
Mouse, hearing what you do not want
vacuous, trembling, in the dark
moving without sound, sudden
hidden passion, missing the mark
moving, furtive, excitement, muted
unwilling to stretch, to reach out
hiding behind the rhythms, the meaning
inspiration, perspiration
will it not be good enough
no craft in the mess
thundering, pouring out
an unguided hand
will joy be lost
when a gift is a talent
when the learning itself
turns the gossamer to dust
September 30, 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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
vacuous, trembling, in the dark
moving without sound, sudden
hidden passion, missing the mark
moving, furtive, excitement, muted
unwilling to stretch, to reach out
hiding behind the rhythms, the meaning
inspiration, perspiration
will it not be good enough
no craft in the mess
thundering, pouring out
an unguided hand
will joy be lost
when a gift is a talent
when the learning itself
turns the gossamer to dust
September 30, 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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
cast aside the weight of facts
like Peter able
willing to trust
in a leap of faith
to cast aside the weight of facts
to stand on living water
To leave my life
all that I have known
to do what it takes
to truly serve the Lord
September 29, 2011
inspired by the 7th stanza of the poem, “The Ponds”,
by Mary Oliver (the one I read, the one chosen for me by God)
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
willing to trust
in a leap of faith
to cast aside the weight of facts
to stand on living water
To leave my life
all that I have known
to do what it takes
to truly serve the Lord
September 29, 2011
inspired by the 7th stanza of the poem, “The Ponds”,
by Mary Oliver (the one I read, the one chosen for me by God)
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
To be willing
my desire, my prayer
to be willing, humble
to submit my life to God
living as I am called
to serve with a glad heart
trusting in the Lord
knowing He will provide
all that I need
as I go out
into His world
September 29, 2011
inspired by the 7th stanza of the poem, “The Ponds”,
by Mary Oliver (the one I read, the one chosen for me by God)
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
to be willing, humble
to submit my life to God
living as I am called
to serve with a glad heart
trusting in the Lord
knowing He will provide
all that I need
as I go out
into His world
September 29, 2011
inspired by the 7th stanza of the poem, “The Ponds”,
by Mary Oliver (the one I read, the one chosen for me by God)
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
To Be Dazzled
Wanting the Epiphany
to be dazzled
to want the earth to shake
to hear the voice of God
calling to me, “come”
to go and do my work
September 29, 2011
inspired by the 7th stanza of the poem, “The Ponds”,
by Mary Oliver (the one I read, the one chosen for me by God)
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
to be dazzled
to want the earth to shake
to hear the voice of God
calling to me, “come”
to go and do my work
September 29, 2011
inspired by the 7th stanza of the poem, “The Ponds”,
by Mary Oliver (the one I read, the one chosen for me by God)
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Was it Peter as the cock crowed
Reading these lines, foreboding
disquiet in my spirit
mystery in each word, each line
wondering what you meant
red in the morning sky
warming, a storm coming
was it Peter as the cock crowed
that led your pen to write
was this scene
facing his mortality, betrayal
the meaning of the line
“after the night of time”
was it that foreboding,
infusing these lines with dread
September 29, 2011
partially inspired by poem, “You Are the Future”,
by Rainer Maria Rilke
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
disquiet in my spirit
mystery in each word, each line
wondering what you meant
red in the morning sky
warming, a storm coming
was it Peter as the cock crowed
that led your pen to write
was this scene
facing his mortality, betrayal
the meaning of the line
“after the night of time”
was it that foreboding,
infusing these lines with dread
September 29, 2011
partially inspired by poem, “You Are the Future”,
by Rainer Maria Rilke
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
A Day Set Apart
Reflections on a day set apart
out in Your world
seeking to hear You speaking
a message for our souls
Listening to the wind
the sound of the waters lapping
washing upon the shoreline
the rustle of the leaves,
the call of the birds
The color of the woodlands
changing in this season
feeling the beauty, presence
drawing closer to God
Sharing words together
spending time to write
offering these to You
that they would be
acceptable in Your sight.
September 29, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
out in Your world
seeking to hear You speaking
a message for our souls
Listening to the wind
the sound of the waters lapping
washing upon the shoreline
the rustle of the leaves,
the call of the birds
The color of the woodlands
changing in this season
feeling the beauty, presence
drawing closer to God
Sharing words together
spending time to write
offering these to You
that they would be
acceptable in Your sight.
September 29, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
September 28, 2011
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
You are the revealing
You are the revealing of God’s message
written in the sands of time
you are the healing of our spirits
your words echoing of God’s love
you are the guiding of our journey
opening our hearts to God’s call
you are the balm in our questioning
assuring us of God’s grace
quelling doubts of our times
you are the seeds of our faith
leading us to go into your world
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 20,870+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
written in the sands of time
you are the healing of our spirits
your words echoing of God’s love
you are the guiding of our journey
opening our hearts to God’s call
you are the balm in our questioning
assuring us of God’s grace
quelling doubts of our times
you are the seeds of our faith
leading us to go into your world
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 20,870+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
You Are – v2
You are the infinite
God eternal
who spoke creation
from the void
You are time
ever flowing
marching on
as water to the sea
You are wisdom
sharing, discerning
rising up
inside of me
You are the hope
growing, changing
moving within
all of creation
You are the cross
who held my Savior
giving his life
that I may be free
You are life
here within us
Spirit moving
guiding our feet
You are my Shepherd
calling to me
I submit my life
over to you.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
God eternal
who spoke creation
from the void
You are time
ever flowing
marching on
as water to the sea
You are wisdom
sharing, discerning
rising up
inside of me
You are the hope
growing, changing
moving within
all of creation
You are the cross
who held my Savior
giving his life
that I may be free
You are life
here within us
Spirit moving
guiding our feet
You are my Shepherd
calling to me
I submit my life
over to you.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
You Are
You are the hope
growing, changing
moving within
all of creation
You are the infinite
God eternal
who spoke creation
from the void
You are the cross
who held my Savior
giving his life
that I may be free
You are time
ever flowing
marching on
as water to the sea
You are life
here within us
Spirit moving
guiding our feet
You are my Shepherd
calling to me
I submit my life
over to you.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
growing, changing
moving within
all of creation
You are the infinite
God eternal
who spoke creation
from the void
You are the cross
who held my Savior
giving his life
that I may be free
You are time
ever flowing
marching on
as water to the sea
You are life
here within us
Spirit moving
guiding our feet
You are my Shepherd
calling to me
I submit my life
over to you.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Cold Air, sometimes
my breathe,
frozen alive
held in mid-air
visible to see
mass, volume
opaque to the light
weight, showing
the course of our life.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
frozen alive
held in mid-air
visible to see
mass, volume
opaque to the light
weight, showing
the course of our life.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Breathe on the World
Tracks
in the sands of time
breathe on the world
in your time and mine
ripples in the sand
washing over us
even on dry land
the grit of our days
living and dying
ever, always
Blowing, moving
over the earth
moving, changing
in this new life
ever flowing, giving
washing over us.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
in the sands of time
breathe on the world
in your time and mine
ripples in the sand
washing over us
even on dry land
the grit of our days
living and dying
ever, always
Blowing, moving
over the earth
moving, changing
in this new life
ever flowing, giving
washing over us.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Sometimes
Sometimes, the world so vast
sometimes we are so small
do we matter, whatever we choose
do we matter at all
Will the world be different
because I have lived
does that change
what I should give
Hope in words for us
that we are worthy
more than dust
Stewards of the world we love
held for us, in God’s arms
That we matter,
win or lose
that we matter,
whatever we choose
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
sometimes we are so small
do we matter, whatever we choose
do we matter at all
Will the world be different
because I have lived
does that change
what I should give
Hope in words for us
that we are worthy
more than dust
Stewards of the world we love
held for us, in God’s arms
That we matter,
win or lose
that we matter,
whatever we choose
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
A Chorus of Autumn
Each fall, the lake
changing complexion
the color, the spirit
the calls on the water
The bathers of summer
noises of people
giving way each year
a chorus of autumn
The birds instead calling
one to another
a sojourn of migration
to warmer climates
Each season in turn
flowing one to another
for now a chorus of autumn
until the chill of winter
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
changing complexion
the color, the spirit
the calls on the water
The bathers of summer
noises of people
giving way each year
a chorus of autumn
The birds instead calling
one to another
a sojourn of migration
to warmer climates
Each season in turn
flowing one to another
for now a chorus of autumn
until the chill of winter
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Still though moving
the skin of the lake
still, though moving,
caressing the shore
fingers reflexive
as if petting a cat
gently stroking
the shore beyond
beyond the skin of the water,
moving in time
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
still, though moving,
caressing the shore
fingers reflexive
as if petting a cat
gently stroking
the shore beyond
beyond the skin of the water,
moving in time
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Sitting just beyond the shore
the pen of the poet
sitting beyond the shore
gazing out on the water
that words soon would flow
his pen moving
across the journal page
freed from time, convention
to slow his path
to be centered wholly
beside the still of the lake
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
sitting beyond the shore
gazing out on the water
that words soon would flow
his pen moving
across the journal page
freed from time, convention
to slow his path
to be centered wholly
beside the still of the lake
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
The display of the cormorant
poised as if waiting
for the photographer’s shutter
the display of the cormorant
out in the lake
Drying its feather
calling to its mate
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
for the photographer’s shutter
the display of the cormorant
out in the lake
Drying its feather
calling to its mate
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Every Fall, the Lake
Every fall, the lake
quieter than summer
waves gently washing
lapping the same shore
Echoes of winter
in the air, memory
soon to be frozen
as if for eternity
The changing of the seasons
life, evolving
seeking to aid, to comfort
ever the same, yet changing
Part of creation
God’s beauty
the calls of the geese,
a staccato of other voices
Calling to us, slowly
to center, in nature
the rhythm of the waves
gently pushing toward us
A palette of colors
every fall, the lake
in the season before dying
a wondrous statement it makes.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
quieter than summer
waves gently washing
lapping the same shore
Echoes of winter
in the air, memory
soon to be frozen
as if for eternity
The changing of the seasons
life, evolving
seeking to aid, to comfort
ever the same, yet changing
Part of creation
God’s beauty
the calls of the geese,
a staccato of other voices
Calling to us, slowly
to center, in nature
the rhythm of the waves
gently pushing toward us
A palette of colors
every fall, the lake
in the season before dying
a wondrous statement it makes.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 22,040+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Not only a canopy
Light in many places
splashing the verdant ground
limbs at many levels
not only a canopy
A kingdom, a realm
living at many layers
the still wood alive
home to many creatures
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
splashing the verdant ground
limbs at many levels
not only a canopy
A kingdom, a realm
living at many layers
the still wood alive
home to many creatures
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Metastasized (2)
A vine upon the tree,
yet more than that
not innocent, neutral
more sinister than this
something alien, invasive
Is this what a strand of cancer
looks like in the body
the vine with endless tendrils
piercing the trees body
each rootlet, each centimeter
unable to be removed
without tearing the tree’s flesh
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
yet more than that
not innocent, neutral
more sinister than this
something alien, invasive
Is this what a strand of cancer
looks like in the body
the vine with endless tendrils
piercing the trees body
each rootlet, each centimeter
unable to be removed
without tearing the tree’s flesh
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Fashioned in the bark
As if emerging from the trunk
instant recognition
the face of a sea turtle
how odd is this vision
coming for the in the glen
the glade of these trees
something more from the ocean
staring back at me
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
instant recognition
the face of a sea turtle
how odd is this vision
coming for the in the glen
the glade of these trees
something more from the ocean
staring back at me
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Holding onto Time
Gazing off toward the light
catching my eager eyes
Not yet fallen, erect
a regal birch remains, straight
Beyond the edge of the still glade
illumined by the morning sun
with poison ivy climbing up its truck
fungus tiered up its side
nests of birds inside
No longer are there limbs
yet worthy none the less
the regal birch within the glade
has much to teach to us
of standing in life’s trials
of changing usefulness
of living within community
and accepting the part we play
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
catching my eager eyes
Not yet fallen, erect
a regal birch remains, straight
Beyond the edge of the still glade
illumined by the morning sun
with poison ivy climbing up its truck
fungus tiered up its side
nests of birds inside
No longer are there limbs
yet worthy none the less
the regal birch within the glade
has much to teach to us
of standing in life’s trials
of changing usefulness
of living within community
and accepting the part we play
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
What if my words – v4
What if my words
were but an illusion
written with
my own desires
what if they were
merely a distraction
a tempting of
the one below
What if my words
were steering me further
from the path
God wished for my life
what if they were
merely a distraction
a tempting of
the one below
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
were but an illusion
written with
my own desires
what if they were
merely a distraction
a tempting of
the one below
What if my words
were steering me further
from the path
God wished for my life
what if they were
merely a distraction
a tempting of
the one below
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
What if my words – v3
What if my words
were filled with power
if they spoke
with the breath of God
what if they were truly inspired
what if they spoke
to our deepest desires
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
were filled with power
if they spoke
with the breath of God
what if they were truly inspired
what if they spoke
to our deepest desires
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
What if my words – v2
What if my words
able to move mountains
to change the course
of the whole world
What if my words
could be a balm to their spirits
what if they were
God’s living word
How would I respond
to such a calling
if God truly
wants to use me
what would I do
how would I respond
would my clay
be open to love
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
able to move mountains
to change the course
of the whole world
What if my words
could be a balm to their spirits
what if they were
God’s living word
How would I respond
to such a calling
if God truly
wants to use me
what would I do
how would I respond
would my clay
be open to love
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
The cracks in the concrete
raised places
cracks in the old concrete
smooth places
filled with the salts
rivers flowing
slowly, slowly
filling each gently
year upon year
satellite images
a model preserved
on the wall of this place
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
cracks in the old concrete
smooth places
filled with the salts
rivers flowing
slowly, slowly
filling each gently
year upon year
satellite images
a model preserved
on the wall of this place
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
What if my words . . .
What is my words
visions from the Creator
pearls, treasure
seeds of love flowing
poured into my clay
sharing, giving
imbued within me
changed, moved
sent into the world
What if my words
seeds of the kingdom
messages of God
for the whole world
what if they were stones
gathered for the water
bright colors and textures
wrapped in God’s love
What if my words
scattered, thrown
sown to the whole earth
shards of God’s grace
cutting, moving
entering each person
transforming each heart
each shore for the ripples
the rows for the planting
each one a pearl
a bit of God’s love
What if my words
healing the nations
offering hope
proof of God’s love
what if the Savior
his blood, his body
within the words
poured out in love.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
visions from the Creator
pearls, treasure
seeds of love flowing
poured into my clay
sharing, giving
imbued within me
changed, moved
sent into the world
What if my words
seeds of the kingdom
messages of God
for the whole world
what if they were stones
gathered for the water
bright colors and textures
wrapped in God’s love
What if my words
scattered, thrown
sown to the whole earth
shards of God’s grace
cutting, moving
entering each person
transforming each heart
each shore for the ripples
the rows for the planting
each one a pearl
a bit of God’s love
What if my words
healing the nations
offering hope
proof of God’s love
what if the Savior
his blood, his body
within the words
poured out in love.
September 28, 2011
Rolling Ridge Day Apart Retreat
www.rollingridge.org
“Poetry, Nature, and the Language of the Land”
http://www.rollingridge.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/WEB-Poetry-Nature-and-Language.pdf
led by Ray McGinnis
http://www.writetotheheart.com/
Write to the Heart workshops
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 13,500+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Would he come as an angel
If Christ came to earth
like a thief in the night
would he come as an angel
or an orphan or unknown birth
Would we recognize him
as one like these
would we shun him, ignore him
or would we fall to our knees
Why does it surprise me, confuse me
that this voice would be named Emmanuel
God with us ever, calling to us
to see the world with his eyes
the eyes of our King
calling us ever
hoping we would sing
that we would dance with our creator
our brother, our God
that we would stand, move mountains
that we would care more somehow
The voice of an angel
Emmanuel, what else,
dying, rising, calling to us,
it is a test
to believe a little more
to share God’s love
offered, and paid for
in the way of the cross
living, dying
that we may have life
September 27, 2011
The X Factor 2011 Auditions - Emmanuel Kelly
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCHS6geSs-k
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 13,480+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
like a thief in the night
would he come as an angel
or an orphan or unknown birth
Would we recognize him
as one like these
would we shun him, ignore him
or would we fall to our knees
Why does it surprise me, confuse me
that this voice would be named Emmanuel
God with us ever, calling to us
to see the world with his eyes
the eyes of our King
calling us ever
hoping we would sing
that we would dance with our creator
our brother, our God
that we would stand, move mountains
that we would care more somehow
The voice of an angel
Emmanuel, what else,
dying, rising, calling to us,
it is a test
to believe a little more
to share God’s love
offered, and paid for
in the way of the cross
living, dying
that we may have life
September 27, 2011
The X Factor 2011 Auditions - Emmanuel Kelly
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCHS6geSs-k
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 13,480+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
A World Like Emmanuel's Dream
Simple acts of kindness
offering them hope
lifted from the clutter
raised up in love
Planting seeds, growing
rising within
coming forward,
confident, ready to begin
Imagine a world
like Emmanuel’s dream
holding each other closer
not saying a word
Sweet spirits singing
rising in the air
tears coming
because we feel it within
A world possible
if we but believe
donning the shoes of Emmanuel
hope in us there
September 27, 2011
The X Factor 2011 Auditions - Emmanuel Kelly
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCHS6geSs-k
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 13,480+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
offering them hope
lifted from the clutter
raised up in love
Planting seeds, growing
rising within
coming forward,
confident, ready to begin
Imagine a world
like Emmanuel’s dream
holding each other closer
not saying a word
Sweet spirits singing
rising in the air
tears coming
because we feel it within
A world possible
if we but believe
donning the shoes of Emmanuel
hope in us there
September 27, 2011
The X Factor 2011 Auditions - Emmanuel Kelly
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eCHS6geSs-k
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 13,480+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
The Whisper in the Wind
The musings of nature
the whisper in the wind
calling us to enter
to living as friends
to go into the wild
to feel the earth
to look up at the sky
to feel one with ourselves
September 27, 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 13,480+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
the whisper in the wind
calling us to enter
to living as friends
to go into the wild
to feel the earth
to look up at the sky
to feel one with ourselves
September 27, 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 13,480+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Without the Cross
The meaning in our lives
living our lives in vain
without the cross
the sacrifice
the gift of the risen Christ
Different because of the cross
hope in God’s grace
believing in Christ
in the Savior of our lives
the one who was foretold
the babe who became the lamb
dying that I may live
the Son, the great I Am
September 27, 2011
-------------------
Carrying My Cross
Yoking myself to my savior
in him is my strength
carrying my cross
following my brother
Picking up my cross
my work on God’s earth
telling the good news of Christ
that all may have new birth
Going where I am called
following where I am led
traveling the way of the cross
in him I find my rest
March 7, 2010
Matthew 16:24
Matthew 16:21-28
&
Day 166, “Challenges of the Cross”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 3/7/10
&
Matthew 16:15
Matthew 16:13-20
&
Day 165, “The Pivotal Question”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 3/7/10
&
Season of 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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
living our lives in vain
without the cross
the sacrifice
the gift of the risen Christ
Different because of the cross
hope in God’s grace
believing in Christ
in the Savior of our lives
the one who was foretold
the babe who became the lamb
dying that I may live
the Son, the great I Am
September 27, 2011
-------------------
Carrying My Cross
Yoking myself to my savior
in him is my strength
carrying my cross
following my brother
Picking up my cross
my work on God’s earth
telling the good news of Christ
that all may have new birth
Going where I am called
following where I am led
traveling the way of the cross
in him I find my rest
March 7, 2010
Matthew 16:24
Matthew 16:21-28
&
Day 166, “Challenges of the Cross”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 3/7/10
&
Matthew 16:15
Matthew 16:13-20
&
Day 165, “The Pivotal Question”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
read 3/7/10
&
Season of 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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
That Unknown Voice
Letting go of clutter
of the chaos of our lives
seeking God’s always
the warmth of His embrace
Listening ever
in the depth of prayer
for the message for us
that we would go there
That unknown voice calling
whispering on the wind
calling ever to us
for the path God has for us
wanting us to come to him
to walk in his grace
September 27, 2011
----------------------------
Letting Go of My Plans
Letting go of my plans
surrendering my will
turning to the calling of God
Using the gifts I have received
for the glory of my Lord
Dropping the files, the notes,
the briefs, taking up the pen, the keys
writing his love, his glory revealed
God’s grace, unmerited gift
Stepping out, so I feel called
speaking deep from within
a voice echoing down to this age
calling me to go forth for him
following my master’s plan for me
January 13, 2010
Proverbs 19:21
Acts 9:1-30
Called Magazine: Women in Ministry,
Weekly Devotional - January 11, 2010,
“Change Direction”
titles drafted 1/12/2010
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
of the chaos of our lives
seeking God’s always
the warmth of His embrace
Listening ever
in the depth of prayer
for the message for us
that we would go there
That unknown voice calling
whispering on the wind
calling ever to us
for the path God has for us
wanting us to come to him
to walk in his grace
September 27, 2011
----------------------------
Letting Go of My Plans
Letting go of my plans
surrendering my will
turning to the calling of God
Using the gifts I have received
for the glory of my Lord
Dropping the files, the notes,
the briefs, taking up the pen, the keys
writing his love, his glory revealed
God’s grace, unmerited gift
Stepping out, so I feel called
speaking deep from within
a voice echoing down to this age
calling me to go forth for him
following my master’s plan for me
January 13, 2010
Proverbs 19:21
Acts 9:1-30
Called Magazine: Women in Ministry,
Weekly Devotional - January 11, 2010,
“Change Direction”
titles drafted 1/12/2010
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Truly Open
On in Christ’s doing
in the timing of God
only by the Spirit’s moving
are we truly open
to the message of God
All else clouded
bound by human understanding
slogging through the clay
in the walk of our lives
needing God’s discernment
on which way to go
September 27, 2011
Luke 24:45
“Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,” (KJV)
-----------------------
Coming to Christ on the Way to the Cross
Not on the Emmaus Road
Christ coming upon the disciples
the risen Christ, Easter morning
comforting their troubled souls
We are coming to Christ
joining him, walking with our master
choosing to follow the Christ
on the way to the cross
In this season of Lent
slowing our pace,
conformed to our savior
walking with the Christ
Where he will lead us
what we will learn on the way
trusting in our savior
through the narrow gate to God
March 1, 2010
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
&
Isaiah 55:1-9
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for March 1, 2010 to March 7, 2010,
“Invitations, Decisions, Repentance”,
by Mariellen Sawada Yoshino
for March 1, 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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
in the timing of God
only by the Spirit’s moving
are we truly open
to the message of God
All else clouded
bound by human understanding
slogging through the clay
in the walk of our lives
needing God’s discernment
on which way to go
September 27, 2011
Luke 24:45
“Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures,” (KJV)
-----------------------
Coming to Christ on the Way to the Cross
Not on the Emmaus Road
Christ coming upon the disciples
the risen Christ, Easter morning
comforting their troubled souls
We are coming to Christ
joining him, walking with our master
choosing to follow the Christ
on the way to the cross
In this season of Lent
slowing our pace,
conformed to our savior
walking with the Christ
Where he will lead us
what we will learn on the way
trusting in our savior
through the narrow gate to God
March 1, 2010
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
&
Isaiah 55:1-9
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for March 1, 2010 to March 7, 2010,
“Invitations, Decisions, Repentance”,
by Mariellen Sawada Yoshino
for March 1, 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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Choked with Anger – part 2
Praying under my breath
in a whisper only
that they would see
the harm to the whole family
when anger guides their path
Needing somehow to forgive
to move beyond the past
to reconcile themselves to their history
so they may move together
as the parents of their kids
September 27, 2011
thinking about so many
family law cases
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
in a whisper only
that they would see
the harm to the whole family
when anger guides their path
Needing somehow to forgive
to move beyond the past
to reconcile themselves to their history
so they may move together
as the parents of their kids
September 27, 2011
thinking about so many
family law cases
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Our Vows on Our Hearts
Words shared together
said aloud before God
our vows written ever
on the fabric of our hearts
How can we hurt those we love(d)
petty words of hate
putting children in the middle
caught in anger’s wake
September 27, 2011
thinking about so many
family law cases
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
said aloud before God
our vows written ever
on the fabric of our hearts
How can we hurt those we love(d)
petty words of hate
putting children in the middle
caught in anger’s wake
September 27, 2011
thinking about so many
family law cases
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
After the Fatted Calf
In the life I have led
in my Father’s house
returning to my home
from that distant land
After the fatted calf
living all my days
walking with my brother
singing my Father’s praise
September 27, 2011
Prodigal Son
Mark 10:17-31
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
in my Father’s house
returning to my home
from that distant land
After the fatted calf
living all my days
walking with my brother
singing my Father’s praise
September 27, 2011
Prodigal Son
Mark 10:17-31
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.
Never Letting Go
What Peter didn’t understand
when Christ called to him
to get out of the boat
to step onto the living water
He was buoyed by God’s love
he trusted enough to step
to take that leap of faith
to step onto the living water
Yet it was in the doubt
the winds of this world
the struggle, the strife
the distractions in this life
These made him sink
starting to fall
forgetting more, a truth
that God was with him then
Never letting go
God right by our side
ready to catch us when we fall
to steady our trembling feet
Nothing to fear
trust in the Lord
he will guide us through the shoals
the trials of our lives
We should follow boldly
not timid in our leaps
walking forward with the Lord
striding across that living water
September 27, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
when Christ called to him
to get out of the boat
to step onto the living water
He was buoyed by God’s love
he trusted enough to step
to take that leap of faith
to step onto the living water
Yet it was in the doubt
the winds of this world
the struggle, the strife
the distractions in this life
These made him sink
starting to fall
forgetting more, a truth
that God was with him then
Never letting go
God right by our side
ready to catch us when we fall
to steady our trembling feet
Nothing to fear
trust in the Lord
he will guide us through the shoals
the trials of our lives
We should follow boldly
not timid in our leaps
walking forward with the Lord
striding across that living water
September 27, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Room for us all
A table big enough
enough to feed the world
all of humanity invited
to the table of the Lord
Room for us all
even those we hate,
set apart,
room at the table
out of the bounty of God’s heart
September 27, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Passionate Worship”
Psalm 84:5-12
Psalm 84:1-4
Psalm 25:1-2a, 4-5 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer (GBOD 2011)
http://www.gbod.org/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c=nhLRJ2PMKsG&b=5511965&ct=7918849
A Prayer for World Communion Sunday
by Safiyah Fosua
Prayers of Dedication (GBOD 2005)
and sermon, “I Give You My Heart”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
October 2, 2011
Seventeenth Sunday of Pentecost
World Communion Sunday
&
Second of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
&
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
enough to feed the world
all of humanity invited
to the table of the Lord
Room for us all
even those we hate,
set apart,
room at the table
out of the bounty of God’s heart
September 27, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Passionate Worship”
Psalm 84:5-12
Psalm 84:1-4
Psalm 25:1-2a, 4-5 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer (GBOD 2011)
http://www.gbod.org/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c=nhLRJ2PMKsG&b=5511965&ct=7918849
A Prayer for World Communion Sunday
by Safiyah Fosua
Prayers of Dedication (GBOD 2005)
and sermon, “I Give You My Heart”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
October 2, 2011
Seventeenth Sunday of Pentecost
World Communion Sunday
&
Second of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
&
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Within His Protective Arms
Like the wings of an eagle
pulled in tight
held close to God
to his body
In His Loving Arms
within his protection
calling me to him
to walk on the water
Nothing to fear
faithful to the end
God calling us to Him
to walk with him again
Held in his loving hands
close to his body
warm in his embrace
emboldened to share his love
September 27, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
pulled in tight
held close to God
to his body
In His Loving Arms
within his protection
calling me to him
to walk on the water
Nothing to fear
faithful to the end
God calling us to Him
to walk with him again
Held in his loving hands
close to his body
warm in his embrace
emboldened to share his love
September 27, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Monday, September 26, 2011
The Gentle Touch of God
Like a blind man
reading braille
tracing the shape
of a lover’s face
God holding us gently
in his loving embrace
Holding the gossamer
a dew covered web
each of the hairs
adorning our head
Numbered and cared for
by our brother, our God
each one special
to our Shepherd, our Lord
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
reading braille
tracing the shape
of a lover’s face
God holding us gently
in his loving embrace
Holding the gossamer
a dew covered web
each of the hairs
adorning our head
Numbered and cared for
by our brother, our God
each one special
to our Shepherd, our Lord
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
The Hand of the Living God
Like a jeweler
the potter
with living clay
a glass blower
with new molten glass
an infant with a robin’s egg
gently nestled in its hand
The hands of the living God
holding my life
a soap bubble untrammeled
a snowflake held -
unmelted, undisturbed
in God’s loving hand
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
the potter
with living clay
a glass blower
with new molten glass
an infant with a robin’s egg
gently nestled in its hand
The hands of the living God
holding my life
a soap bubble untrammeled
a snowflake held -
unmelted, undisturbed
in God’s loving hand
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
In His Loving Arms
Living redeemer
my Father, my brother
calling me to him
onto the water
guiding me ever
catching me when I fall
drawing me to him
to his loving arms
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
my Father, my brother
calling me to him
onto the water
guiding me ever
catching me when I fall
drawing me to him
to his loving arms
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Almighty Father
Almighty Father
Spirit within
gently Savior
calling to me
One with each other
three yet one
creating, sustaining
held in God’s arms
leading me home
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Spirit within
gently Savior
calling to me
One with each other
three yet one
creating, sustaining
held in God’s arms
leading me home
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Our Brother, the Christ
Our risen, living Lord
our brother, the Christ
showing us how to live
to walk in this life
not some distant Savior
seated on high
Showing us the way
guiding us ever
to the light of day
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
our brother, the Christ
showing us how to live
to walk in this life
not some distant Savior
seated on high
Showing us the way
guiding us ever
to the light of day
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Practicing Our Faith
Acting on the word
practicing our faith
raising our praises
in living out our creed
praises to our God
for saving us from death
sent into the world
sowing seeds of the word
a harvest to come
the glory of the Lord
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
practicing our faith
raising our praises
in living out our creed
praises to our God
for saving us from death
sent into the world
sowing seeds of the word
a harvest to come
the glory of the Lord
September 26, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,470+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Sermon, "That's Radical Man!", by Pastor Ruth Foss, Suncook United Methodist Church, September 25, 2011
Pastor Ruth Foss
Sunday September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
Psalm 118:28-29 Common English Bible
James 1:22-25 Common English Bible
Romans 15:1-13 NRSV Bible
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations” by Robert Schnase
That’s Radical Man!
Have you ever heard about some churches that are out there on a limb helping others and wonder to yourself “how do they do that? What makes them so special? I wonder if my church could do something like that?”? I mean these people are really out there doing incredible work for the Kingdom. What’s their secret? They seem to have no fear and they just dive in with both feet. Why are these churches so “fruitful for the kingdom of God?”
I’ve been reading a book by Robert Schnase called “Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations” and it has really given me insight on the type of congregation that steps out of themselves and into the world and are accomplishing great things for God in the world. It has really opened my eyes to the possibility for all churches to be the kind of church. So. . . as we begin to gear up for our annual “stewardship drive”, so to speak, I think we would do well to look at these five practices. . . sort of grounding ourselves. . . while we take on the “task at hand.”
The five practices we will be looking at are:
1. Radical Hospitality→ What does radical hospitality really look like?
2. Passionate Worship→ what is involved in passionate worship?
3. Intentional Faith Development→ what can we do to develop our faith and make it stronger?
4. Risk-taking Mission and Service→ what are we willing to risk as we reach out to others with the Gospel of Christ?
And
5. Extravagant Generosity → what happens when we get it right?
As we journey on this road together, you will hear me talk about “we”. . . now when I say that. . . I’m not necessarily talking about Suncook United Methodist Church. I’m more talking about we as a church on a whole. . . we as the body of Christ. So please don’t take offense when I say we. I really don’t like pointing fingers, come on, we have all fallen short of the glory of God at times in our lives.
Because of the importance of our journey, let’s begin it in prayer. . .
Loving and Gracious God, we thank you for all the wonderful ways you bless our lives. We want to share those blessings with those around us. . . we want to proclaim your goodness from the roof tops. During this time of searching and listening, nay you give us eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart that is open to your will. Enable us to be that fruitful congregati8on for you. Lord you have said that the harvest is ready but there are too few laborers. May we labor in your vineyard as to bring about your kingdom here on earth. Speak Lord. . . your workers are listening and waiting for your instru7ctions for us. Amen. . .
So. . . let’s talk about radical hospitality. Now I know we have talked about this before but maybe. . . just maybe. . . we can see it from a different perspective now. In the reading from James this morning, we heard about one way we can begin to practice radical hospitality. By being doers not just hearers of the Word, we not only are a blessing but we are also blessed. We can begin that “title-wave” of grace that washes over all that we come in contact with. By being doers, we are following . . . practicing. . . that radical hospitality that Jesus modeled for us. But in doing this, we also take on a great responsibility.
We are Christ’s ambassadors therefore we need to check our self and our own agenda that we bring to the table. We need to make sure our hearts are in the right place, so to speak. Let’s look at what Paul has to say in Romans chapter 15 v9erses 1-13. . . how are we to act in light of our honor of being Christ’s ambassadors. Read the Romans from NRSV bible. . .
You see. . . the character of Christian hospitality is one that goes out of its way. . . its own comfort zone. . . to invite others into the congregation. This type of character sees others the way God sees them. . . as beloved children. We, as Christians, don’t have the monopoly on God. . . we are called to share the wealth.
Now this has gotten me thinking. . . understand that this is how we should think and act toward those who are outside church. . . those who need love and acceptance. . . those who need to see Christ in the world through us but what about our brothers and sisters within the congregation?
There are too many Christians that seem to have forgotten that they too have fallen short of the glory of God. In order to show genuine radical hospitality to others, we need to practice it within our church. Think about it for a moment. . . you are a new comer to the church. You are there because someone has invited you. . . they showed that radical hospitality to you. Now you come to church only to see division and “back-biting”. Now wouldn’t you think twice about coming back. . . wouldn’t you think that they did that “bait and switch” on you somewhere along the road. If we are to be fruitful congregations for God, we need to practice love. . . we need to practice mercy. . . we need to support one another. In other words. . . we need to get totally radical within in order to practice it on the outside.
Beloved children of God. . . we need to “practice” this type of hospitality. The operative word here is practice. We may fall at times but we are practicing and practice makes perfect. Let us search our hearts. . . is there someone in our lives that we need to practice with? Are there issues or problems with people in our lives that we need to get radical with? Are there situatio8ns within our churches that need us to practice what we preach with? Only as we search our hearts will we be able to turn the tide of the times and turn it into a wave of grace. Lets ride that wave of hospitality and see God’s glory reign!
Amen. . .
Sunday September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
Psalm 118:28-29 Common English Bible
James 1:22-25 Common English Bible
Romans 15:1-13 NRSV Bible
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations” by Robert Schnase
That’s Radical Man!
Have you ever heard about some churches that are out there on a limb helping others and wonder to yourself “how do they do that? What makes them so special? I wonder if my church could do something like that?”? I mean these people are really out there doing incredible work for the Kingdom. What’s their secret? They seem to have no fear and they just dive in with both feet. Why are these churches so “fruitful for the kingdom of God?”
I’ve been reading a book by Robert Schnase called “Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations” and it has really given me insight on the type of congregation that steps out of themselves and into the world and are accomplishing great things for God in the world. It has really opened my eyes to the possibility for all churches to be the kind of church. So. . . as we begin to gear up for our annual “stewardship drive”, so to speak, I think we would do well to look at these five practices. . . sort of grounding ourselves. . . while we take on the “task at hand.”
The five practices we will be looking at are:
1. Radical Hospitality→ What does radical hospitality really look like?
2. Passionate Worship→ what is involved in passionate worship?
3. Intentional Faith Development→ what can we do to develop our faith and make it stronger?
4. Risk-taking Mission and Service→ what are we willing to risk as we reach out to others with the Gospel of Christ?
And
5. Extravagant Generosity → what happens when we get it right?
As we journey on this road together, you will hear me talk about “we”. . . now when I say that. . . I’m not necessarily talking about Suncook United Methodist Church. I’m more talking about we as a church on a whole. . . we as the body of Christ. So please don’t take offense when I say we. I really don’t like pointing fingers, come on, we have all fallen short of the glory of God at times in our lives.
Because of the importance of our journey, let’s begin it in prayer. . .
Loving and Gracious God, we thank you for all the wonderful ways you bless our lives. We want to share those blessings with those around us. . . we want to proclaim your goodness from the roof tops. During this time of searching and listening, nay you give us eyes to see, ears to hear and a heart that is open to your will. Enable us to be that fruitful congregati8on for you. Lord you have said that the harvest is ready but there are too few laborers. May we labor in your vineyard as to bring about your kingdom here on earth. Speak Lord. . . your workers are listening and waiting for your instru7ctions for us. Amen. . .
So. . . let’s talk about radical hospitality. Now I know we have talked about this before but maybe. . . just maybe. . . we can see it from a different perspective now. In the reading from James this morning, we heard about one way we can begin to practice radical hospitality. By being doers not just hearers of the Word, we not only are a blessing but we are also blessed. We can begin that “title-wave” of grace that washes over all that we come in contact with. By being doers, we are following . . . practicing. . . that radical hospitality that Jesus modeled for us. But in doing this, we also take on a great responsibility.
We are Christ’s ambassadors therefore we need to check our self and our own agenda that we bring to the table. We need to make sure our hearts are in the right place, so to speak. Let’s look at what Paul has to say in Romans chapter 15 v9erses 1-13. . . how are we to act in light of our honor of being Christ’s ambassadors. Read the Romans from NRSV bible. . .
You see. . . the character of Christian hospitality is one that goes out of its way. . . its own comfort zone. . . to invite others into the congregation. This type of character sees others the way God sees them. . . as beloved children. We, as Christians, don’t have the monopoly on God. . . we are called to share the wealth.
Now this has gotten me thinking. . . understand that this is how we should think and act toward those who are outside church. . . those who need love and acceptance. . . those who need to see Christ in the world through us but what about our brothers and sisters within the congregation?
There are too many Christians that seem to have forgotten that they too have fallen short of the glory of God. In order to show genuine radical hospitality to others, we need to practice it within our church. Think about it for a moment. . . you are a new comer to the church. You are there because someone has invited you. . . they showed that radical hospitality to you. Now you come to church only to see division and “back-biting”. Now wouldn’t you think twice about coming back. . . wouldn’t you think that they did that “bait and switch” on you somewhere along the road. If we are to be fruitful congregations for God, we need to practice love. . . we need to practice mercy. . . we need to support one another. In other words. . . we need to get totally radical within in order to practice it on the outside.
Beloved children of God. . . we need to “practice” this type of hospitality. The operative word here is practice. We may fall at times but we are practicing and practice makes perfect. Let us search our hearts. . . is there someone in our lives that we need to practice with? Are there issues or problems with people in our lives that we need to get radical with? Are there situatio8ns within our churches that need us to practice what we preach with? Only as we search our hearts will we be able to turn the tide of the times and turn it into a wave of grace. Lets ride that wave of hospitality and see God’s glory reign!
Amen. . .
Worship Theme: “Intentional Faith Development”
Acts 2:42-47 (The Message Bible)
2 Timothy 3:14-17 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 103:1-5 (Common English Bible) (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer:
“Loving God, we thank you for this day. Thank you for
your Word that guides and sustains us. As we hear
your Word may we rejoice in your loving-kindness and
goodness;
may we draw ever closer to you.
We pray for eyes to see you in the world,
ears to hear your whisper on the wind, and a heart that
is
moldable in your hands. All this we pray in the
name above all names, our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.”
Prayer of dedication (GBOD 2011, prepared for 10/9/2011
service)
and sermon, “Equipped for the Journey”
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon
blog
meditation
blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
October 16, 2011
Nineteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Passionate Worship”
Psalm 84:5-12
Psalm 84:1-4
Psalm 25:1-2a, 4-5 (Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer (GBOD 2011)
A
Prayer for World Communion Sunday
by Safiyah Fosua
Prayers of Dedication (GBOD 2005)
and sermon, “I Give You My Heart”
by Pastor Ruth
Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
October 2, 2011
Seventeenth Sunday of Pentecost
World Communion Sunday
&
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
by Pastor Ruth
Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
All of my
poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002,
2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015.
All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray
Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)
for usage. See all 40,580+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Live in Harmony
Live in harmony
one to another
offering each
our Savior’s love
sharing freely
with our neighbor
together
sharing the load
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
one to another
offering each
our Savior’s love
sharing freely
with our neighbor
together
sharing the load
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Being Christ to our Brothers
We must be gentle
to our sisters
being Christ to our brothers
within the family
Offering love
not just to our neighbors,
the strangers
those whom we meet
Being the same, truly loving
to those within our midst
growing ever stronger
sharing love, first,
with our family
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
to our sisters
being Christ to our brothers
within the family
Offering love
not just to our neighbors,
the strangers
those whom we meet
Being the same, truly loving
to those within our midst
growing ever stronger
sharing love, first,
with our family
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Together with one voice
Serving each other
harmony, together
together with one voice
praising God, our Father
our brother, the Christ
sharing together
the work of the church
walking together in
the way of the cross
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
harmony, together
together with one voice
praising God, our Father
our brother, the Christ
sharing together
the work of the church
walking together in
the way of the cross
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Doers of the Word
Living out our faith
taking in the law
the teachings of the Christ
love forevermore
being doers of the word
servants of the Lord
practicing what we preach
praises to our God
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
taking in the law
the teachings of the Christ
love forevermore
being doers of the word
servants of the Lord
practicing what we preach
praises to our God
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Out there on a limb
Out there on a limb
taking our leap of faith
walking on the water
acting on our faith
Serving God joyfully
answering the Shepherd’s call
walking as Christ would lead
holding back nothing at all
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
taking our leap of faith
walking on the water
acting on our faith
Serving God joyfully
answering the Shepherd’s call
walking as Christ would lead
holding back nothing at all
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,460+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Sunday, September 25, 2011
Unique Gifts - 2
Unique gifts
from the creator’s heart
each of us
given our part
Ours to use
as we are called
for the kingdom work
giving our all
September 25, 2011
http://www.facebook.com/tphfw?sk=wall#!/tphfw/posts/249627938414190
“God gives each of us our own unique gifts. It is our job to recognize these gifts, nurture them, and utilize them to live up to our full potential. Look around you and inside of you and recognize what you do have. It may be an artistic talent, a business talent, or strength of character. God gives you the resources for success. But it is up to you to recognize them and use them to their fullest.”, by T. D. Jakes
&
earlier poem,
“A Gift”
-------------------
A Gift
In either translation,
“A gift”, “whatever gift”, not the gifts, the talents
a singular gift we each are given
by the creator, for His glory
Our “starfish”, the thing we are to share
the way we are to serve
A member of the body of Christ
a disciple, a part of the church
Each of us gifted, for His glory
Sharing our voices, our hands,
our special gift with the world
in our creator’s, our savior’s name
September 20, 2009
1 Peter 4:10-11
in New Revised Standard Version
and New Century Version
and Upper Room daily devotional for 9/20/09
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=9&day=20&year=2009
“Gifts and Talents”, by Norma L. Santos
&
Psalm 92:1-4
Isaiah 43:18-21
Luke 12:54-56
and sermon, “The View from Seven Decades:
The Power and Danger of Paradigms”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 19, 2009
and
Psalm 100
Luke 4:16-21
Isaiah 43:1-3a
Isaiah 43:18-21
and sermon, “The Power of Vision”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
including, The Star Thrower Story by Joel Barker,
inspired by the writing of Loren Eiseley,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 26, 2009
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
from the creator’s heart
each of us
given our part
Ours to use
as we are called
for the kingdom work
giving our all
September 25, 2011
http://www.facebook.com/tphfw?sk=wall#!/tphfw/posts/249627938414190
“God gives each of us our own unique gifts. It is our job to recognize these gifts, nurture them, and utilize them to live up to our full potential. Look around you and inside of you and recognize what you do have. It may be an artistic talent, a business talent, or strength of character. God gives you the resources for success. But it is up to you to recognize them and use them to their fullest.”, by T. D. Jakes
&
earlier poem,
“A Gift”
-------------------
A Gift
In either translation,
“A gift”, “whatever gift”, not the gifts, the talents
a singular gift we each are given
by the creator, for His glory
Our “starfish”, the thing we are to share
the way we are to serve
A member of the body of Christ
a disciple, a part of the church
Each of us gifted, for His glory
Sharing our voices, our hands,
our special gift with the world
in our creator’s, our savior’s name
September 20, 2009
1 Peter 4:10-11
in New Revised Standard Version
and New Century Version
and Upper Room daily devotional for 9/20/09
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=9&day=20&year=2009
“Gifts and Talents”, by Norma L. Santos
&
Psalm 92:1-4
Isaiah 43:18-21
Luke 12:54-56
and sermon, “The View from Seven Decades:
The Power and Danger of Paradigms”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 19, 2009
and
Psalm 100
Luke 4:16-21
Isaiah 43:1-3a
Isaiah 43:18-21
and sermon, “The Power of Vision”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
including, The Star Thrower Story by Joel Barker,
inspired by the writing of Loren Eiseley,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
July 26, 2009
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Not just for the stranger
Hospitality, mercy
not just for the stranger
those we just have met
those out on the street
Also for our sister,
our brother we know so well
for those close at hand
believing, taking a stand
with them all the way
not judging in any way
wanting the best for all we meet
not just those
out on the street
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
not just for the stranger
those we just have met
those out on the street
Also for our sister,
our brother we know so well
for those close at hand
believing, taking a stand
with them all the way
not judging in any way
wanting the best for all we meet
not just those
out on the street
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Doing what we profess
Living out our faith
not judging the rest
gentle, humble, in our walk
doing what we profess
That is the measure of our faith
following what we believe
offering love to all we meet
sitting at the Master’s feet
God knows our heart
faithful, doing our part
offering love to all
even though we fall
wanting to see the Lord
to be his witness here in the world
being his hands and feet
sitting at our Master’s feet
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
not judging the rest
gentle, humble, in our walk
doing what we profess
That is the measure of our faith
following what we believe
offering love to all we meet
sitting at the Master’s feet
God knows our heart
faithful, doing our part
offering love to all
even though we fall
wanting to see the Lord
to be his witness here in the world
being his hands and feet
sitting at our Master’s feet
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Psalm 118:28-29 (Common English Bible)(Call to Worship)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Blood of the Martyrs
Long time victims
the people, the martyrs
under the oppression
the boot of the tyrant
Just one of many
mass graves of the people
those who sought freedom
the end of repression
blood of the martyrs
crying from the graves
the sands of the desert
crying out in rage
September 25, 2011
CNN article, “Grave may hold 1,200 bodies, believed victims of Libyan prison massacre”
http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/25/world/africa/libya-mass-grave/index.html?hpt=wo_c1
1996 massacre at Abu Salim prison
and article about Libyan secrets being revealed
http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/09/01/libya.intelligence/index.html?iref=obnetwork
------------------
Their Blood on Our Hands – part 1
Turning our blind eyes
away from the crisis
the murder of the peoples
mercenaries and martyrs
Their blood on our hands
because we fail to act
empty rhetoric of diplomacy
when they are dying in the street
What will history say
the mass graves of the martyrs
when the world stood by
as they were slaughtered in the streets
Giving them over
letting them fight by themselves
claiming the rights to be free
yet leaving them to die alone
March 17, 2011
calling on President Obama and the world
to act in the Middle East, especially in Libya and Bahrain,
to stand with the people
yearning to breathe free
and not worrying about the results,
that it is always right to stand for basic human rights
&
on the transformations since the beginning of January -
all the protests in Egypt, Yemen, Bahrain, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Oman,
Jordan, Iran, Iraq, Palestinian Territories, Djibouti, Mauritania, Senegal, Saudi Arabia, etc.
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 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
the people, the martyrs
under the oppression
the boot of the tyrant
Just one of many
mass graves of the people
those who sought freedom
the end of repression
blood of the martyrs
crying from the graves
the sands of the desert
crying out in rage
September 25, 2011
CNN article, “Grave may hold 1,200 bodies, believed victims of Libyan prison massacre”
http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/25/world/africa/libya-mass-grave/index.html?hpt=wo_c1
1996 massacre at Abu Salim prison
and article about Libyan secrets being revealed
http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/09/01/libya.intelligence/index.html?iref=obnetwork
------------------
Their Blood on Our Hands – part 1
Turning our blind eyes
away from the crisis
the murder of the peoples
mercenaries and martyrs
Their blood on our hands
because we fail to act
empty rhetoric of diplomacy
when they are dying in the street
What will history say
the mass graves of the martyrs
when the world stood by
as they were slaughtered in the streets
Giving them over
letting them fight by themselves
claiming the rights to be free
yet leaving them to die alone
March 17, 2011
calling on President Obama and the world
to act in the Middle East, especially in Libya and Bahrain,
to stand with the people
yearning to breathe free
and not worrying about the results,
that it is always right to stand for basic human rights
&
on the transformations since the beginning of January -
all the protests in Egypt, Yemen, Bahrain, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Oman,
Jordan, Iran, Iraq, Palestinian Territories, Djibouti, Mauritania, Senegal, Saudi Arabia, etc.
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 21,030+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Ready to Share this Message
Sitting ready
discomfort in the pews
for these are for me
yet ready still
to share this message
these words of God
to share with us
for the glory of the Lord
to lift us from our seat
sent into the world
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
discomfort in the pews
for these are for me
yet ready still
to share this message
these words of God
to share with us
for the glory of the Lord
to lift us from our seat
sent into the world
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
Holding to the Gunwales – v1
Not walking boldly
holding onto the gunnels
to the side of the boat
Falling, sinking
there, unfaithful
bound in time
in the current struggles
our focus wavering
falling from Jesus
calling to us
on the living waters
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
holding onto the gunnels
to the side of the boat
Falling, sinking
there, unfaithful
bound in time
in the current struggles
our focus wavering
falling from Jesus
calling to us
on the living waters
September 25, 2011
Worship Theme: “The Practice of Radical Hospitality”
Romans 15:1-7 (NRSV Bible)
Romans 15:1-13 (NRSV Bible)
James 1:22-25 (Common English Bible)
Sermon: “That’s Radical Man!”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://pastorruth.posterous.com
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
Suncook, NH
September 25, 2011
Sixteenth Sunday of Pentecost
&
First of Six part sermon series on
“Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations”
http://fivepractices.org/books/five-practices-of-fruitful-congregations/
and the book by the same name, by Robert Schnase,
http://methodistthinker.com/2009/01/14/bishop-robert-schnase-on-the-five-practices/, bishop of the Missouri Area of the United Methodist Church
http://www.moumethodist.org/page.asp?PKValue=777
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 13,450+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live
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