the place where God gave his Son

the place where God gave his Son
was not in the stable, in the manger bed
in the wilderness, in work
not in the journey, his ministry
not even on the mountain, transfiguring

the place where God gave his Son
to die in my merger place
unfathomable, utterly mind blowing
the Son of the Living God would die for me

the place where God gave his Son
on the skull, Golgotha
on the cross, Calvary
to give us freedom, from our sin
rising on Easter morning, that we may Live!

to give us freedom, from our sin
February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

to ashes we will return

our bodies merely vessels
shells made of clay
giving life by God
otherwise dust
from ashes we began
the dust of the earth
through the fire of this life
the journey follow
to ashes we will return

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

It is good we begin in ashes

Tearing at our hearts
with trembling fingers
ripping ourselves open
in the journey to the cross
if we are truly faithful
if we put ourselves there
in truth, in fact, if we are honest
it is good we begin in ashes
because of our sin
what we have done
why he had to die
why Christ came
down to the earth
lifting us from the dust
giving us life

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

to die in our stead

simple words in the title
this poem coming to life
words of the sermon
of the meaning of this season
of what God did
the choices Christ made
to take my place

God sending his Son
Christ, the Messiah
God with us,
the Lord, Emmanuel

sending the Master
to become the Lamb
to protect us with his blood
sacrificing for us
to heal our brokenness
from the depths of God’s love

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

It’s the road – v2

not the destination
but the journey
it’s the road we travel
the Lenten season
walking with our Lord
through the time of his passion
getting the dust upon us
reading the words
walking with the disciples
the air of foreboding
the gathering clouds,
the coming night,
as we journey
with them, with Jesus
our brother, our Master
the Savior of us all
going to Jerusalem’s gate
to David’s holy city
where all God’s prophets died
walking with Jesus
walking by his side
as he taught of God’s love
walking, an example
of how to journey in this life

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

It’s the road

not the destination, the journey
it’s the road we travel
the Lenten season
walking with our Lord
getting the dust upon us
as we journey
going to Jerusalem
to David’s holy city
where all prophets died
walking with Jesus
as he taught of God’s love
walking, an example
of how to journey in life

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

by ashes we were made

from the dust of stars
cinders of creation
from fire and light
the world begun
the stuff of our life
by ashes we were made
the water of God’s love
God’s breath to give us life
his hand to guide us

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

our journey of hope

the time of Lent upon us
the shadows and the light
reflecting on ourselves
and what God did for us
hope in the journey
in the glory of resurrection
light from the darkness
when Christ rose from the grave

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

by grace we are redeemed

by nothing we have done
by grace we are redeemed
brought back from the pit
new life in Christ
God’s love for us
this is all that matters
his grace poured upon us
offering us a way
through the gate of crucifixion
Christ’s sacrifice for us
a holy Lent to guide us
in the way of the cross

February 25, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 21,090+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Everything came from Love

At the heart, the beginning
the center of creation

One truth, God, eternal
everything by His hand,
by His holy voice, His Word

Everything came from Love
out of the darkness, Light

Love poured out, came forth
in design, perfection
the intricacy, complexity

Subtle simplicity,
and infinite colors

Everything came from Love
out of the depths of God
in an instant, Love

February 25, 2012
Genesis 1
Genesis 2
&
Newsboys song, “God is Not Dead”,
&
Max Lucado posting on twitter
https://twitter.com/#!/MaxLucado/status/173407650732716033
“God’s not human and his first language is not English. (Andy Reese)”
February 25, 2012
My reply to his post was, “God’s first language is love.”

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 16,180+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live

Self-Made Men, Alone – v2

So alone, if we ever really believe ourselves
to be self-made men, outside of history,
outside of the community of faith,
No saints to praise, to remember
as if we were islands, able to exist
seemingly as if we were the big bang,
the creation, coming
into being without assistance
How much happier, comforted
knowing the savior, the saints gone before
living as part of a larger whole, the body
worshiping, sharing the cup, remembrance
of the long line that journeyed this road before

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 2, 2008
Men’s Group discussion 11/1/08
The Lord’s Prayer, and
All Saints’ Day Sunday
Psalm 78:1-7
Hebrews 12:1-3 and sermon,
“Seizing the Future By Remembering the Past”,
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
&
Pastor Ruth Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,180+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Everyday People – v2

They were everyday people,
men like Peter and John
with fears, doubts,
timid men, fishermen
Taken from the sea by the Lord
walking the land with their teacher
walking with the Lord

Hidden away until Pentecost
speaking with power, with authority
worshiping, praying together
leading the flock

Healing in the name of Jesus
by his name alone
making the lame walk
Powerful witness,
to the hand of God
resting on these ordinary people
What will the leaders do?

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
September 21, 2008
Psalm 8,
Acts 4:13-17,
Call to Worship, from Book of Common Worship,
Unison Prayer, from The Worship Sourcebook,
and sermon, “Every Day People”, by
by Pastor Ruth Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,180+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

With Burning Zeal – v2

Worshiping you with burning zeal
so is our prayer this morning
our collective prayer of praise
centering our hearts together
that we would be convicted,
transformed; steady minds,
burning zeal, doing your will
all of our lives


edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 16, 2008
Call to Worship,
from the Worship Source Book,
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,910+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Idle Worship – v2

With burning zeal,
the fire of Pentecost
when the Spirit first descended
landing on the apostles, giving them power
So must we be, each day, worshiping God
the one true God, focused, in awe,
bringing his love, his message, his hope to all
Dropping, shedding, letting go
our other priorities, lesser gods
Renewed, each day,
to hear the call of the Creator
to praise his holy name
and humbly do his will

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,170+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Wise Men – v2

Not three kings, not royalty
men of faith,
of science, scholars
students of the ancient texts

Able to read the signs,
of nature, of the heavens
followers of the stars, called
raised from their lands, studies

His star rising, to his Star
they were called, “Come”.
Leaving their lands, their lives
bringing gifts, traveling

Journeying to his bed, his side
Overwhelmed, overcome,
falling, kneeling, bowing down,
worshiping him, the Babe

The king, born of prophecy
Paying homage, opening their treasure
giving him gold, frankincense and myrrh
Their lives, journeying under his star

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
January 6, 2009
Matthew 2:1-12
Epiphany Night

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 16,170+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Living in Sabbath Time – v2

Our whole days,
in every moment
living in sabbath time
Conscious of God’s presence
and of God’s provision
All that has been created,
all that we need
beyond our imagination
already made, available
Spending time in his creation
feeling God’s grace
the outpouring of His love
time with our family
worshiping the Lord

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
September 27, 2009
Mark 7:1-8, 14-15, 21-23
Deuteronomy 4:1-2, 6-9
Psalm 46:1-3 (Call to Worship)
& sermon, “Whose Rule Is It?”

by Pastor Ruth Foss

https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss

http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss

http://www.pstruthsermons.blogspot.com

sermon blog

http://www.pstrruthfoss.blogspot.com

meditation blog

Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
9/27/09
and
Exodus 20:8-11 (Ten Commandments: Sabbath)

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 48,720 of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live. 

Mindfulness of Worship – v2

Oh that I could always experience
that I would let go
each moment precious
savoring the time
the presence of the Lord
the mindfulness of worship
time set apart, visceral
not to judge, not to do something
to experience, to be in this moment
knowing the freedom from worry
our future assured
because of the sacrifice
the gift of grace of Christ
fully present in this now
worshiping together
in my community of faith

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
August 9, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31
Matthew 6:24-34
and message for children
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
and sermon, “Leaving it in God’s Hands”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
by Pastor Ruth Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
August 9, 2009

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 16,170+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live

Worshiping

Living, walking, before God
in his presence, ever
praising God, in word, in deed,
in truth; in the sanctuary,
in our work, in our service
New eyes to see God
devotion, love eternal
out of our heart’s desire
in all we say, all we do
Worshiping our Creator,
our sustainer, our Savior
All the days of our lives

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
March 17, 2009
Revelations 4:1-11
Psalm 95:1-3, 6-7a
Daniel 3:28-29
John 4:20-24 and sermon,
“Church… Isn’t Just for Sunday Anymore”,
by Pastor Ruth Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH

March 8, 2009

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 16,160+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Communal Living – v2

One big family
the family of God, of Christ
sharing with one another
our lives bound together
property and need
blended, shared
to each as they had need
worshiping, living
in community


edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
April 19, 2009
Galatians 6:8-10
Acts 4:32-35
and sermon, “All For One and One For All”,
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 19, 2009

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 16,160+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Joining the Choir of Angels – v2

In heaven, on the earth
and below, in the seas
joining the choir of angels
their heavenly song

praises with one voice
all of creation singing
in praises to God

the Father and the Lamb
worshiping together
all creatures praising
raising one voice
to their heavenly song

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
April 17, 2010
Revelations 5:11-14
&
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for April 12, 2010 to April 18, 2010,
“Transformed by Grace”,
by Yong Hui V. McDonald
&
Revelations 5:11-14
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-12-18/
for April 12, 2010 to April 18, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 16, 2010, read April 17, 2010
&
April 17, 2010
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-12-18/
for April 12, 2010 to April 18, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 17, 2010,
“Denouncing Injustice in Fury”,
by Andrew Harvey

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 16,160+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Drawing Us to Him – v2

Christ not here with us
not in the flesh himself
living in others
as we walk the earth

His Spirit dwelling
living inside us
going with us
as we walk the earth

Actions, things
we can do in our days
drawing us to him
as we walk the earth

Seeing him in the little things
in moments of solitude
reading in the Word of his life
as we walk the earth

Sharing Christ
to those we meet
God’s love for us
as we walk the earth

Worshiping together
all part of one family
praising our Savior ever
as we walk the earth


edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
June 7, 2010
Galatians 1:11-24
1 Kings 17:8-16
Psalm 146:1-5 (Call to Worship)
Prayer of Dedication:
“Abundant God, we thank you for the jars of our lives
that are constantly being filled. We offer our gifts to you,
that others may know of your abundance and grace.
Fill the hungry with good things. Lift up the oppressed.
Watch over the stranger and comfort the lonely.
Through our gifts, may we do likewise.
In the name of Christ the Comforter, we pray. Amen”
Worship Theme: “How do our lives attract or detract people”
and sermon, “The Proof Is In the Pudding”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
June 6, 2010
Second Sunday after Pentecost

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,640+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Growing in Christ – v2

Feeding our spirits
Christ indwelling in us
with words of the scripture
your love revealed in these

In times of solitude
meditation, prayer
feeling you close to us
wherever we are

Seeking out others
who yearn for your holy name
working together to serve
doing all we can

Worshiping, caring
for our fellow man
loving others, with his help
as only Jesus can


edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
June 7, 2010
Galatians 1:11-24
1 Kings 17:8-16
Psalm 146:1-5 (Call to Worship)
Prayer of Dedication:
“Abundant God, we thank you for the jars of our lives
that are constantly being filled. We offer our gifts to you,
that others may know of your abundance and grace.
Fill the hungry with good things. Lift up the oppressed.
Watch over the stranger and comfort the lonely.
Through our gifts, may we do likewise.
In the name of Christ the Comforter, we pray. Amen”
Worship Theme: “How do our lives attract or detract people”
and sermon, “The Proof Is In the Pudding”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
June 6, 2010
Second Sunday after Pentecost

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,640+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Simply Sitting – v2

Moments of blessing
quiet reflection
simply sitting
calling the presence of God

Quietly waiting
sensing his coming
realizing perhaps
that he was already here

Worshiping listening
out of the silence
the world put on hold
to spend time with God

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
June 18, 2010
Luke 10:38-42
Mary and Martha
Mark 6:31
& Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=13&year=2010
for May 13, 2010, read June 18, 2010
“Time Well Spent”,
by Connie Coppings

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 16,160+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

With You – v2

Spending time alone
in solitude together
worshiping God in silence
humbly in prayer

Spending time alone
with my Lord and Savior
grounding my life in him
that I may face the day

Fed with the Word
feeling your living waters
the seed within me growing
planted in my heart

Aching for your presence
your Spirit speaking ever
guiding my steps I pray
at the dawning of each day.

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
July 18, 2010
Matthew 6:6
Matthew 6:15
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=7&day=18&year=2010
for July 18, 2010, read July 18, 2010
“My Morning Ritual”,
by Magdiel Martinez

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 16,160+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Scatter the Seeds – v2

Freely, extravagantly
scatter the seeds
more than enough
as with the loaves and fishes
our daily bread
All that we ever need
sow the seeds ever
scattering God’s seeds of love

Sow them in the winds,
post them on the net
put them on your heart
as you walk the earth
Share them in the workplace
sing them on your knees
worshiping our Savior
sowing his seeds of love

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
July 28, 2010
Matthew 13:1-11; 24-30
“Waste and Grace”,
by Rev. Frank Gulinello, Jr.
“ Jesus’ parable of the Sower focuses on the scattering of the seed.
No matter what kind of ground it falls upon, whether hardpan or
deep rich soil, God will have a harvest yielding a hundred fold.
So, scattering the seed aimlessly is not wasteful in God’s economy.”
www.concordwumc.org
Wesley United Methodist Church
Concord, NH
August 1, 2010


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,160+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Joining with the Saints – v2

Kindling the fire
all of us together
shining in this night

our light, our gifts, our fire
joining with the saints
that same flame
the Spirit of Christ

burning brightly
up on the lampstand
the altar of his grace
the lintels of our hearts
alive with that same fire

joining with the saints
in worshiping you
warm in your embrace

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 4, 2010
Luke 6:20-31
Beatitudes
Psalm 149:1-6a
1 Samuel 2:1b-2 (God’s Word Translation) (Words of Praise)
Worship Theme: What does a Saint look like?
and sermon, “Living Like A Saint. . . Oh Yah!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
October 31, 2010
All Saints Sunday

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 20,645+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Look to God – v2

Worshiping Him
all of our days
looking to God
not to the world
for all of our needs
trusting in Him always

So hard to do
in this present age
the lie of the self-made man
ringing loudly in our ears
as if we were all we need

Praising God all of our days
cleaving to our king
mindful of our distance from him
the creator of heaven and earth

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 9, 2010
Psalm 145
Philippians 4:4-9
Ephesians 5:19-20 (Call to Worship)
Deuteronomy 32:3
Worship Theme: “Praise God”
Prayer of Dedication
and sermon, “Something Special We Can Do”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 7, 2010
Twenty-Fourth Sunday after Pentecost
All Saints Sunday
(officially November 7, 2010)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/All_Saints

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 16,160+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Season’s Purpose – v2

Not about the presents
the tinsel, the garland
the trees we cut and carry
standing in our homes

Not even about the giving
the sharing of our bounty
the presents we exchange
as witness to our love

The season’s purpose
retelling the coming
the promise of his coming
in victory to come

The Christ coming before us
into our consciousness
calling us to him
if we would truly believe

The story of the Christ-child
the love of Jesus
God’s grace in the power
of his humble birth

God redeeming
reclaiming his creation
restoring all who would follow
who would take up their cross

Specific instructions
in the life of Jesus
in the words of his witness
in his commands to his flock

That we would end our days
as we begin this season
humbly worshiping
the depths of God’s love

God’s love unending
his grace without end
bringing us to him
at the foot of the cross

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 26, 2010
Romans 13:11-14
Isaiah 2:1-5
Worship Theme: “Hope”
and sermon, “The Reason for the Season”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 28, 2010
First Sunday of Advent

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 20,640+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Worshiping You Together

Thankful for this morning
able as a people
gathered, as a congregation
worshiping you together
singing praises to you

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
June 6, 2010
Prayer before sermon
and
Galatians 1:11-24
1 Kings 17:8-16
Psalm 146:1-5 (Call to Worship)
Prayer of Dedication:
“Abundant God, we thank you for the jars of our lives
that are constantly being filled. We offer our gifts to you,
that others may know of your abundance and grace.
Fill the hungry with good things. Lift up the oppressed.
Watch over the stranger and comfort the lonely.
Through our gifts, may we do likewise.
In the name of Christ the Comforter, we pray. Amen”
Worship Theme: “How do our lives attract or detract people”
and sermon, “The Proof Is In the Pudding”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
June 6, 2010
Second Sunday after Pentecost


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,650+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Worshiping You - 2

Coming into your house
into your presence, consciously
entering in to worship
humbly, on our knees

Mindful of your sacrifice
of your fulfilling all your promises
coming to earth as a man
taking on our sin

We are filled with joy
worshiping you together
sharing our commitment with one another
joyfully being filled

Going out into the world
singing your praises
shouting out to the world
the saving of our maker


edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 18, 2010
Isaiah 12
Psalm 98
Psalm 18:1-2 (New Living Translation)(Call to Worship)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication
“I Love You, Lord”, Faith We Sing # 2068
“Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee”, United Methodist Hymnal # 89
“Open Our Eyes”, Faith We Sing #2086
“Let All Things Now Living”, Faith We Sing # 2008
“The Trees of the Field”, Faith We Sing # 2279
Worship Theme: “Is there joy in the world?”
and sermon, “Givin A Shout Out!”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
November 14, 2010
Twenty-fifth Sunday after Pentecost

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,650+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

And They Brought Their Gifts – v2

From the distant lands
following His star
from their maps, the stars
coming to see the King

Worshiping, bowing down
before the babe, his mother
and they brought their gifts
a foretaste of his life

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
December 23, 2010
Matthew 2:1-5
Hebrews 12:28-13.3
John 4:9 (bulletin cover)
Psalm 98:4-9 (“Joy to the World”, UMH #246)
Matthew 2:1-12 (“Star-Child”, TFWS #2095)
Luke 2:6-20 (“Angels We Have Heard on High”, UMH #238)
Advent Candle Liturgy, by Dean McIntyre (with Matthew 1:18-25)
Worship Theme: “You never know where you will encounter God.”
Unison Prayer
and sermon, “Meeting Angels”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 19, 2010
Fourth Sunday of Advent


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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Before Epiphany – v2

Before Epiphany
after the birth of the King
in the waning hours of history
the turning of the years

Watching in our hearts
waiting in prayer
humbly reviewing the year
finding You with us there

Offering You our gifts
the outpourings of our hearts
worshiping Your Spirit within us
knowing You fill us up

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
December 31, 2010
Isaiah 43:16,18-19 (NIV)
Bible Verse of the Day
http://www.verseoftheday.com/
&
Numbers 6:24-26
Watch Night
http://www.snopes.com/holidays/newyears/watchnight.asp
http://www.interpretermagazine.org/interior.asp?ptid=43&mid=11612
New Year’s Eve
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
&
Isaiah 63:7-9
Hebrews 2:10-18
Psalm 150 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “God’s presence in our past, present and future.”
and sermon, “A Year in Review”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 26, 2010
First Sunday after Christmas

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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Before Epiphany – v3

Before Epiphany
after the birth of the King
in the waning hours of history
the turning of the years

Watching in our hearts
waiting in prayer
humbly reviewing the year
finding You with us there

Offering You our gifts
the outpourings of our hearts
worshipping Your Spirit within us
knowing You fill us up

December 31, 2010
Isaiah 43:16,18-19 (NIV)
Bible Verse of the Day
http://www.verseoftheday.com/
&
Numbers 6:24-26
Watch Night
http://www.snopes.com/holidays/newyears/watchnight.asp
http://www.interpretermagazine.org/interior.asp?ptid=43&mid=11612
New Year’s Eve
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
&
Isaiah 63:7-9
Hebrews 2:10-18
Psalm 150 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “God’s presence in our past, present and future.”
and sermon, “A Year in Review”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 26, 2010
First Sunday after Christmas

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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Why Not Today – v2

In the Courts of heaven
standing in the gate on earth
Why not today
to laud our Savior’s birth

Sharing the joy of Jesus
Christ coming to earth
worshiping ever
the presence of our God

Not waiting for the future
eternity in heaven
sharing richly now
the good news of our Brother
come to save the earth

edited February 25, 2012

Why Not Today – v2

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/02/why-not-today-v2.html

changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,

because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.

January 17, 2011

Why Not Today

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2011/01/why-not-today.html

Ruth’s meditation, “Offering Up Praise Daily”

http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/01/offering-up-praise-daily.html

on her “ A Handmaiden of the Lord” blog

http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com

January 17, 2011

&

edited January 21, 2015

How We Are to Act – v2

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/01/how-we-are-to-act-v2.html

January 17, 2011

How We Are to Act

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2011/01/how-we-are-to-act.html

edited January 19, 2015

Words can Destroy – v2

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/01/words-can-destroy-v2.html

January 17, 2011

Words can Destroy

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2011/01/words-can-destroy.html

edited January 20, 2015

Words to Edify – v2

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/01/words-to-edify-v2.html

January 17, 2011

Words to Edify

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2011/01/words-to-edify.html

The Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2011

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King,_Jr._Day

&

Isaiah 9:1-4

and

Upper Room Disciplines for 2011

http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=831781

for January 17 to 23, 2011

“Carrying God’s Light”

by Cathie McFadden

for January 17, 2011

read January 17, 2011

&

Isaiah 6:1-8

&

Isaiah 49:1-7

John 1:29-42

Worship Theme: “Called by God to . . .”

and sermon, “A Light to the Nations”

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2011/01/sermon-light-to-nations-by-pastor-ruth.html

by Pastor Ruth Foss

https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss

http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss

http://www.pstruthsermons.blogspot.com

sermon blog

http://www.pstrruthfoss.blogspot.com

meditation blog

http://pstrfoss.wordpress.com/

“God’s Whisper” blog

Suncook United Methodist Church

Suncook, NH

January 16, 2011

Second Sunday after Epiphany

Human Relations Sunday

http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6KkNWLrH/b.3833821/k.5074/Special_Sunday__Human_Relations_Day__Overview.htm

&

edited January 19, 2015

Changing the Wind – v3

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2015/01/changing-wind-v3.html

(merging edits to original and version 2)

Edited July 22, 2013

“changing the wind – v2”

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2013/07/changing-wind-v2.html

December 7, 2007

“changing the wind”

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2007/12/changing-wind.html

Based on the comments of Jim Wallis on

Speaking of Faith, November 29, 2007

http://speakingoffaith.publicradio.org/programs/jimwallis/index.shtml

He was talking about whether to change politicians

or change the wind, to change the public opinion

which guides politics. He used the example

of President Johnson’s statement to the

Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. that it would

take 5 years for a voting rights bill but

it actually took 5 months to pass the Voting Rights Act,

after the March in Selma.

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 35,320+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Worshiping God Now

Not in the heavens
worshiping God now
a slice of the future
when we live in glory

Your kingdom now
blessed here on earth
singing ever your praises
all the days of our lives

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
January 17, 2011
Ruth’s meditation, “Offering Up Praise Daily”
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2011/01/offering-up-praise-daily.html
on her “ A Handmaiden of the Lord” blog
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
January 17, 2011
&
The Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King, Jr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 2011
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King,_Jr._Day
&
Isaiah 9:1-4
and
Upper Room Disciplines for 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=831781
for January 17 to 23, 2011
“Carrying God’s Light”
by Cathie McFadden
for January 17, 2011
read January 17, 2011
&
Isaiah 6:1-8
&
Isaiah 49:1-7
John 1:29-42
Worship Theme: “Called by God to . . .”
and sermon, “A Light to the Nations”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
January 16, 2011
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Human Relations Sunday
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/c.qwL6KkNWLrH/b.3833821/k.5074/Special_Sunday__Human_Relations_Day__Overview.htm


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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In that Quiet Center – v2

In that quiet center
living as prayer
worshiping God always
praises to our King
Solitude, silence
an open heart to God
hearing the message
calling to our heart

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
March 20, 2011
James 5:13-16
Ephesians 6:10-20
James 1:5-8
Psalm 100 (Call to Worship)
Prayer of Adoration
Prayer of Dedication
message of Bishop Peter Weaver
of March 17, 2011 at a Rolling Ridge workshop
comparing Lent and Advent
Mark 9:24 and John 20:27-29
(hymn, “We Walk by Faith”, The Faith We Sing #2196)
pastoral prayer by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Prayer is Faith”
(2nd in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
and sermon: “A.S.A.P.” (James 5:13-16)
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 20, 2011
Second Sunday in Lent
&
1 Kings 19:11-13
Matthew 6:5-6 (God’s Word Translation)
Psalm 95:1-3 (God’s Word Translation)(Call to Worship)
Prayer of Adoration
Prayer of Dedication
Psalm 86:12
(hymn “Glorify Thy Name”, The Faith We Sing, #2016)
John 12:21 and Ephesians 1:17-18
(hymn “Open My Eyes”, The Faith We Sing, #2086)
(hymn “Lord, Listen to Your Children Praying”, The Faith We Sing, #2193)
(hymn “Come and Find the Quiet Center”, The Faith We Sing, #2128)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Silence is Prayer”
(1st in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
and sermon: “Silence is Golden”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 13, 2011
First Sunday in Lent
&
Joel 2:12-17a
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
John 20:11-18
(“In the Garden”, United Methodist Hymnal, #314)
Prelude
Call to Worship
Prayer for Peace
Communion
Distribution of Ashes
and Ash Wednesday Meditation
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 9, 2011
Ash Wednesday
&
Facebook message
by Barack Obama
March 9, 2011
http://www.facebook.com/#!/barackobama/
“Michelle and I join with millions of Christians
here and across the world to mark Ash Wednesday.
As we observe the season of Lent, we receive
with thanksgiving this opportunity for grace and repentance,
recommit ourselves to our faith, and
remember our obligations to one another.”
http://www.facebook.com/#!/barackobama/posts/10150107573326749

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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Fealty to our wealth - v2

An unholy altar, an idol of rust
craven gods, that will turn to dust
worshiping our possessions
fealty to our wealth
the things of this earth
not Christ’s holy birth
Forgetting the commandments
uncomfortable reminders of our sin
wanting to trust in our own abilities
taught by our culture that we are all that is
what will we do when the creator comes to call
Like the rich man, unable to leave his wealthy, his power
gathering in, full barns, but no heart for his fellow man
A false and corrupt world, tempting us from our way
ready to bring us to hell, unless we change our way
Christ was the example, and the saints of old,
heeding the master’s call,
doing what we are told
Living by the covenant
the commandments of our king
ready to enter the fiery furnace
to yoke our lives to him

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 16, 2009
Daniel 3:16-18
and writing challenge
“Monday Manna for November 16, 2009 – Ultimate Faith”
posted by Joanne Sher on her blog,
“An Open Book”, at:
http://joannesher.blogspot.com/2009/11/ultimate-faith-monday-manna.html
&
Luke 12:15-21
and Psalm 16
and “The Prayer of St. Francis”,
United Methodist Hymnal #481;
and sermon, “I Want It All . . .”,
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
November 15, 2009
Her sermon is the third of a four-part series based in part on
Reverend Adam Hamilton (http://www.cor.org/about-resurrection/adam/)’s book,
“Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity” (http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426702334)

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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Living in Epiphany – v2

Living in Epiphany
time on this earth
not just in one season
worshiping our Savior’s birth

Seeking the Christ
our God where we are
loving our neighbor
seeing the face of God

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
February 3, 2010
Isaiah 6:1-13
for February 2, 2010
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for February 1, 2010 to February 7, 2010,
“Epiphanies”,
by V.H. “Sonnye” Dixon, Jr
read 2/2/2010

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Time Truly Set Apart – v2

Jonah, in the tomb
the belly of the fish
time truly set apart
spending time with God
thinking about his circumstance
the mercy of the king
changing his heart completely
worshiping the king
going to that distant land
offering God’s grace
serving boldly
yet struggling with faith

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
May 15, 2011
Jonah 1, 3-4
Luke 14:1, 7-14
Psalm 66 NRSV (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “Ministering to Unlikely and Unlikable people”
and sermon: “A Fish Story: The One that Didn’t Get Away”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 15, 2011
Fourth Sunday of Easter
&
Walk to Emmaus
http://www.upperroom.org/emmaus/
Luke 24:13-35
grace
means of grace
baptism
Luke 15:11-32
Prodigal Son
Mark 10:17-31
The Parable of the Rich Man

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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Going to the Temple – v2

Going to the temple
worshiping the King
waiting for the promise to be fulfilled
the Spirit to come
their hearts to be filled
with power from above

Going into the world
sharing God’s love
the change in their lives
when Christ came to earth
wiping away our sin
by His love upon the cross
sacrificing himself
that you and I
would not be lost

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
June 9, 2011
Acts 1:3-11 (God’s Word Bible)
Luke 24:44-53 (The Message Bible)
John 14:1-3
Zephaniah 3:17
Psalm 34:8
Worship Theme: “God’s Promises”
and sermon: “I Promise. . .”
by 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
Suncook, NH
June 5, 2011
Seventh Sunday of Easter
Ascension Sunday

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 16,150+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live

Wait until it arrived – v2

The disciples of two minds
lost at his rising
waiting for the coming
the Spirit He promised
with hope of its arrival
but having to wait
to a time of God’s choosing
praying in the temple
worshiping God ever
for the provision,
His fulfilling
of all of His promises
waiting, trusting
in our sovereign God

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
June 9, 2011
Acts 1:3-11 (God’s Word Bible)
Luke 24:44-53 (The Message Bible)
John 14:1-3
Zephaniah 3:17
Psalm 34:8
Worship Theme: “God’s Promises”
and sermon: “I Promise. . .”
by 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
Suncook, NH
June 5, 2011
Seventh Sunday of Easter
Ascension Sunday


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 16,150+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live

Finding Shelter – v2

Mary and Joseph
strangers, journeying
in his ancestral lands
Finding shelter
a humble stable
alone and tired
a feeding trough
their baby’s bed
Under the light
his natal star
angels sang
shepherds came
sent to his throne
bowing, kneeling
beside his make-shift crib
worshiping the Messiah
the babe, born to set us free
born to save us from our sin

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
December 20, 2009
Alive Now Daily Reflections for December 14, 2009 to December 20, 2009
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-december-14-20/
Luke 2:1-7 (December 18, 2009)
Luke 2:8-20 (December 19, 2009)
&
Luke 2:6-7
& Advent Christmas offering letter
http://www.suncookumc.org
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. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Lamb will be their shepherd – v2

washed clean by his blood
knowing know thirst, no want
no tears in heaven
joy in paradise
The lamb will be their shepherd
worshiping at his throne
serving him in his temple
under arms of his great love

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
November 23, 2011
Revelations 7:17
Revelations 7:13-17
Revelations 7
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 23, 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 16,140+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Repenting of my sinful pride – v2

Here in this land of plenty
an illusion of power
that we are somehow worthy
focused upon our lives
making of ourselves idols
worshiping earthly treasure
Only when I submit
repenting of my sinful pride
aware of my clay
conscious of the distance
how far you are above me
Then, only then, may I serve you
sharing your message
your light to the world.

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
February 2, 2012
Luke 15:1-10
Luke 15:1-7
Parable of the Lost Sheep
Luke 15:8-10
Parable of the Lost Coin
(Luke 15:11-32
Parable of the Prodigal Son)
&
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=2&day=1&year=2012
for February 2, 2012
“A Great Find”,
by Clifford B. Rowley
read February 2, 2012


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 15,310+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Worshiping You

Worshiping you, with my hands, with my feet,
with my voice against injustice, my words of your love
the poems a gift to share, worshiping you
not by words alone, not by the time in the sanctuary
warming the pews
Living my faith, heeding your call
each day worshiping you
always, all the days of my life
in everything I do

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
August 24, 2008
Unison Prayer –
United Methodist Book of Worship 460
Suncook United Methodist Church


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we have cursed your name – v2

We have torn down your altars
we have run from your love
worshiping false idols
stuff of this earth
we have cursed your name
throwing epithets at you
using your name as a weapon
against our own brothers
shouting in protest
shaking our fists
when we should love you
as you taught us to be
we are separated from you
by the depths of our sin
it is only through your mercy
that we have a prayer to live

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
February 23, 2012
Worship Theme – “Ash Wednesday”
Prelude
Unison Prayer
Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21 (CEB)
Joel 2:12-17a (CEB)
Prayer of Confession (Psalm 51:3)
Pastoral Prayer
Word of Assurance (GBOD 2012)
Thanksgiving over the ashes
Distribution of the Ashes
hymn, “Sunday’s Palms Are Wednesday’s Ashes” TFWS #2138
and Ash Wednesday Meditation,
“The Math of Lent”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
Ash Wednesday
February 22, 2012

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 16,060+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live

And They Worshiped Him

And they worshiped him
the Magi, the shepherd
those who came before him
the Christ with us

If only more, the whole world
throughout his earthly life
if only the leaders had come
his kingdom come
to rest upon the earth

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
December 23, 2010
Matthew 2:1-5
Hebrews 12:28-13.3
John 4:9 (bulletin cover)
Psalm 98:4-9 (“Joy to the World”, UMH #246)
Matthew 2:1-12 (“Star-Child”, TFWS #2095)
Luke 2:6-20 (“Angels We Have Heard on High”, UMH #238)
Advent Candle Liturgy, by Dean McIntyre (with Matthew 1:18-25)
Worship Theme: “You never know where you will encounter God.”
Unison Prayer
and sermon, “Meeting Angels”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
December 19, 2010
Fourth Sunday of Advent

Christ, Faith, God, grace, hope, love, United Methodist, Raymond A. Foss, Poetry Where You Live, Huntley Halvorson, Advent, Messiah, peace, joy, Matthew 2, Matthew 1, Hebrews 12, Hebrews 13, angels,

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 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

One Meal – Blog Action Day – v2

The Book of Acts, the Acts of the Apostles
valuable lessons for this age, this time in our lives
these uncertain, troubled times,
maybe community can rise again
out of the ashes of our disjointed, unconnected lives

All together, one table, one meal
they lived, worshiped, ate together
a single life the lives of the apostles
out of their wealth they gave,
out of their need they were given
early believers on the way

Sharing all, around one table,
to spread his message
to bring God’s love
out into the world
bringing their lives together
one community, one meal
In meals shared, in sacrament, in community
seeing Christ in our neighbors
we share in their legacy
sharing the table with them
all of them, no charge

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
updated October 11, 2008
September 7, 2008
Acts 2:42-47 and sermon by
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
and the ministry of a weekly dinner,
“Our Family’s Table”
October 15, 2008
Blog Action Day, poverty



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 16,140+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live

A story of choices – v2

Needing graphic witness
the story of choices
all of the bible layered
with those who have followed
the calling of God
with those who have rejected
the hope of salvation
The love of God revealed
in the story of the people
in how His arms were open
How He was rejected
false idols worshiped
man’s hate for one another
corruption the hope of the garden
from the very beginning
How we disavowed
the majesty of God
How we turned our backs
when He called to us
How in spite of all this
He climbed the cross to save us
all of us saved
if we turn to Him
if we call Him Abba
if we follow Him now
yoked with our savior
conforming our steps to His

edited February 25, 2012
changing the spelling from “worshipped” to “worshiped”,
because Blogger and Twitter said “worshipped” is a misspelling.
&
October 16, 2010
Genesis 12:1-8
Abram, Abraham

http://www.suncookumc.org

Suncook United Methodist Church

http://www.suncookumc.org 

http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965

Suncook, NH

&
status on Neven Hanna’s Facebook page
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=539960654
“Do not ask the Lord to Guide your Footsteps
if you are not willing to move your Feet' ENJ”
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/permalink.php?story_fbid=157577904275737&id=539960654&notif_t=like

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 21,150+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.