Saturday, May 05, 2012

We love because He first loved us

We are transformed
turned from our selfish ways
turned from the world
We love our fellow man
our sisters, our brothers
we love because God first loved us
sending us the Savior


May 5, 2012
1 John 4:19
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we are called to love one another

no matter the differences
the divide between out paths
we are called to love one another
not a suggestion, but a commandment
spoken by the Christ
to love as he loves us
to be willing to give up our life


May 5, 2012
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we know God loves us

Confident in our walk
when we listen within
we know God loves us
because of what he did for us
Christ came as a sacrifice
he healed us of our sin
taking on our punishment
we rise to life in him


May 5, 2012
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

There is no fear in love

Love is complete
there is no fear in love
nothing left to be exposed
in the arms of God
There is no fear in love
doubt cast out
sure of our place in God’s arms
in the presence of his love


May 5, 2012
1 John 4:18
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

whoever lives in love

We are called to abide
to live in God
whoever lives in love
lives forever in God


May 5, 2012
1 John 4:15-16
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God lives in us and we live in God

What a wonderful promise
in the scripture of 1 John
that we hold the promise
of life with the Lord
God lives in us
if we believe in Christ
we live in God
messengers of his love


May 5, 2012
1 John 4:15
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

if we acknowledge that Jesus is the Son of God

If we proclaim the truth
if we claim his name
if we acknowledge that Jesus is the Son of God
his joy lives in us, God alive within us
and we living in him
messengers of the Messiah
vessels of God’s love


May 5, 2012
1 John 4:15
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We cannot bear fruit without Christ

The source of love
of living water
of the grounding in the vine
We cannot bear fruit without the Christ
without him we wither and die


May 5, 2012
John 15:4
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

No branches bear fruit alone

We are not islands
happy warriors on the range
we are not self-made
we abide in the vine

No branches bear fruit alone
we are nourished by the vine
the love of our Jesus
in your heart and mine


May 5, 2012
John 15:4
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 18,010+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God prunes branches to bear more fruit

Are you in a time of pruning,
be glad in that time, that journey
knowing that God prunes for a purpose
His Son is the vine

God prunes every branch
casting the dead out
God prunes branches to bear more fruit
to share more of his love


May 5, 2012
John 15:2
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 18,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God cuts every branch that bears no fruit

God is the gardener
Chris the true vine
we are the shoots, the branches
living within time

God cuts every branch
the suckers, the withered,
those who are unproductive
casting them into the fire


May 5, 2012
John 15:2
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 18,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We are the branches - 2

We are the branches
the hands and feet of God
the vine of Christ
watered by the love of God

We are the branches
called to be faithful
to offer our gifts
to share our rich blessing


May 5, 2012
John 15:2
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 18,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Father is the Gardener

The Son is the vine
we are the branches
The Father is the gardener
pruning in his time
Cutting out that which is dead
casting out the weeds
pruning the believers
a greater harvest to yield


May 5, 2012
John 15:1
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 18,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ is the true vine

The Messiah, the prophet
the source of all life
the living witness
the lamb on the throne
Christ is the true vine
the source of our wellspring
the love which we share
our witness, our shining
hope everywhere


May 5, 2012
John 15:1
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Nourished by the vine

Our life, our living
nourished by the vine
the love Christ showed us
sharing his life
his walk here on the earth
planting God’s seed
branches interwoven
as more come to believe
nourished by the vine
the source of all life
the living Messiah
the vine to our branch


May 5, 2012
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 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 18,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Open to God’s pruning

Only if we abide
if we are living in Christ
the true vine, the source
living water for our life
Open to God’s pruning
the gardener in the field
pruning out dead places
a greater harvest to yield



May 5, 2012
John 15:1-4
John 15:1-8; Year B
The Vine and the Branches
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 5, 2012
read May 5, 2012

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 23,490+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A trust in God’s presence

whatever the storm
the trials, the pain
however deep the anguish
we are at peace
a trust in God’s presence
his care for his people
holding us in his arms


May 5, 2012
Psalm 22:25-31
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 4, 2012
started May 4, 2012; read May 5, 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 18,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God reaches every nation

God’s love washing
like a wave over the earth
God reaches every nation
all the people of the world
seeking out believers
presence in every trial
throughout our earthly journey
God here with us


May 5, 2012
Psalm 22:25-31
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 4, 2012
started May 4, 2012; read May 5, 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 18,000+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Friday, May 04, 2012

Beloved

We are beloved
so says the Word
worthy to give
and receive love
We are beloved
hope in the Lord
life in the Spirit
love overflows


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:7
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Whoever loves God must love his brother

The command of God
to love God
to love our neighbor
our sisters, our brother
Whoever loves God
must love his brother
one cannot love one
and hate the other


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:20-21
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We cannot love and hate

We cannot love and hate
our God and our brother
we cannot hate one
and love the other
We cannot walk that line
it is a razor’s edge
We all end up covered
in our own blood


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:20
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

To be Savior of the world

Nothing too small
nothing more grand
the Father sent his Son
to be Savior of the world
All of man, in his hands
in the life that he shared
in his showing us God’s love
in the life that Christ led


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:14
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Father sent the Son

Creator and Redeemer
pathway to life
the Father sent the Son
to give us new life
Light in the darkness
hope for all man
saving us all
the living Son, I am


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:14
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Because of his Spirit

God within us
binding us to him
love to guide us
that we would live
Because of his Spirit
God’s voice within
we can testify
that others may live


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:13
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We have seen and we testify


we are Christ’s witnesses
we have seen and we testify
to God’s love come down
the Messiah, our Savior
walking here with us
our brothers, our Shepherd
our gate to eternal life



May 4, 2012
1 John 4:14
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He lives in us

God, the Creator,
our Savior, our Lord
He lives in us
the Spirit within
Love abides
within our hearts
guiding our feet
our walk in this life


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:13
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we live in him

We live in him
in the living God
his Spirit within us
our lives unto him

We live in him
his hand to guide us
life from the Son
raised from the dead

We live in him
shepherd, protector
show me the path
your plan for my life


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:13
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God’s love is made complete in us

God’s love alive
living within us
made complete in us
animating our clay
The earth, the dirt
the stuff of our bodies
filled with God’s breath
that we have life
Life for a purpose
to share God’s message, his call
to offer ourselves fully
giving God our all
Giving for his mission
to save the whole earth
rising from our substance
before we return to dirt


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:12
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God lives in us

If we love
truly love
love as Christ does
sacrificially,
submissive
giving to God
God lives in us
shining through
abiding within us
guiding us ever
life eternal
mercy unending
grace overflowing
shared with the world


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:12
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

But if we love one another


We are blessed
not by seeing God
but by knowing God
seeing God in others
in the life of Christ
in the way we walk
We may not have seen God
we must yet believe
for if we love one another
God lives in us
his love complete
our part in his plan
to save the whole world


May 4, 2012
1 John 4:12
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,990+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Thursday, May 03, 2012

God did not call you – v2

Words of pain evident
judgment nearly complete
words shouted, self-righteous
even before translation, reflection
silence, without condemnation
hate language spoken straight

God did not call you
you must be horribly mistaken
He did not call you to the pulpit
you are not to love this kind of person
God did not make you gay
it was your failed mortal choice


May 3, 2012
inspired
United Methodist Church General Conference
GC2012 – discussions in morning session
poem today, “You are Sin”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/05/you-are-sin.html
&
earlier poem, “You Must be Mistaken”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/you-must-be-mistaken.html
April 28, 2012
Passage of Paragraph #304.3 language in committee at
United Methodist General Conference 2012
http://www.umc.org/site/c.lwL4KnN1LtH/b.8029511/k.8489/General_Conference_2012__The_United_Methodist_Church.htm
barring ordination for same-sex candidates, those guilty of pre-marital sex, and adultery.
http://calms.umc.org/2012/Text.aspx?mode=Petition&Number=994
http://salvagedfaith.wordpress.com/2012/04/28/questionsimplications-re-paragraph-304-3-gc2012/
&
earlier poem, “Grieving in my spirit – v2”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/grieving-in-my-spirit-v2.html
edited April 29, 2012
&
and earlier poem,
“I am broken, I am hurting”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/i-am-broken-i-am-hurting.html
April 29, 2012
Luke 24:13-16
Luke 22:19
Luke 24:30-21
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission
Postscript:
“The Words After That”
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
&
Matthew 25:31-46
The Sheep and the Goats
&
Matthew 28:18-20
Great Commission
&
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
&
path of my wife to the United Methodist Church
after she felt the call to ministry
and was told that her church (Baptist)
did not believe women serving in the pulpit
was consistent with scripture.
&
John 8:1-11
&
Samuel Thompson’s
http://www.facebook.com/#!/keleayon
Inclusion Essay
shared at the New England United Methodist Church
Annual Conference
http://www.neumc.org/pages/detail/195
in response to call by Reconciling Ministries Network
http://www.rmnetwork.org/
for essays describing, “My vision for an inclusive church”,
June 10, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,130+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Weeping for brothers, sisters

Pain evident, all to present
pain caused by us, by our church
weeping for brothers, sisters
our family in Christ
hurting, open sides
split by us, by our spears
our words condemning
within the bar, the law
the words of our faith
our denomination
in many voices
judging their lives
who they are as people
sin to be despised
casting out our sisters, our brothers
our family in this faith


May 3, 2012
http://www.gc2012conversations.com/2012/05/03/pain-marks-homosexuality-discussion/
1 John 4:20
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,980+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

You cannot hate a brother

You cannot love God
the invisible, the eternal
the great almighty
who we have not seen
You cannot hate a brother,
a sister here in this life
you cannot hate them
and claim love for God
who you have never seen


May 3, 2012
1 John 4:20
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Love because God is Love

Love our neighbor
every brother, every sister
because the Spirit lives
Christ lives in us
Love because God is love
living within me
causing me to love
to let go of self
to put on Christ
and walk in his love


May 3, 2012
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Love in action, love divine

Love in action, love divine
love for us, given by God
created to love
sent his Son
life in him
worthy of grace



May 3, 2012
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Seeds of Easter – v2

Seeds of Easter, planted
joy dormant, waiting
waiting to burst forth
a harvest surely to come

So long before, in the time of waiting
in the words of the psalmist
water in the desert
to bring the seeds dormant
to abundant life

In the ashes, the soil, the ground
seeds of Easter planted
like the bulbs of each spring
waiting for the coming light of morning
to spring forth in loving new life


edited May 3, 2012
March 21, 2010
Psalm 126
Psalm 126:1-6
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for March 15, 2010 to March 21, 2010,
“To Restore the Fortunes of Zion”,
by Louise Stowe-Johns
for March 21, 2010
“Fifth Sunday in 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 17,980+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

God did not call you

The words of pain evident
the judgment nearly complete
the words shouted
even before translation
the hush, without condemnation
the language spoken straight

God did not call you
you must be horribly mistaken
He did not call you to the pulpit
to love this kind of person
God did not make you gay
it was your mortal choice



May 3, 2012
inspired
United Methodist Church General Conference
GC2012 – discussions in morning session
poem today, “You are Sin”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/05/you-are-sin.html
&
earlier poem, “You Must be Mistaken”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/you-must-be-mistaken.html
April 28, 2012
Passage of Paragraph #304.3 language in committee at
United Methodist General Conference 2012
http://www.umc.org/site/c.lwL4KnN1LtH/b.8029511/k.8489/General_Conference_2012__The_United_Methodist_Church.htm
barring ordination for same-sex candidates, those guilty of pre-marital sex, and adultery.
http://calms.umc.org/2012/Text.aspx?mode=Petition&Number=994
http://salvagedfaith.wordpress.com/2012/04/28/questionsimplications-re-paragraph-304-3-gc2012/
&
earlier poem, “Grieving in my spirit – v2”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/grieving-in-my-spirit-v2.html
edited April 29, 2012
&
and earlier poem,
“I am broken, I am hurting”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/i-am-broken-i-am-hurting.html
April 29, 2012
Luke 24:13-16
Luke 22:19
Luke 24:30-21
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission
Postscript:
“The Words After That”
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
&
Matthew 25:31-46
The Sheep and the Goats
&
Matthew 28:18-20
Great Commission
&
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
&
path of my wife to the United Methodist Church
after she felt the call to ministry
and was told that her church (Baptist)
did not believe women serving in the pulpit
was consistent with scripture.
&
John 8:1-11
&
Samuel Thompson’s
http://www.facebook.com/#!/keleayon
Inclusion Essay
shared at the New England United Methodist Church
Annual Conference
http://www.neumc.org/pages/detail/195
in response to call by Reconciling Ministries Network
http://www.rmnetwork.org/
for essays describing, “My vision for an inclusive church”,
June 10, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,120+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Status a Crime

Who you are Sin
though you were created
your hairs numbered
from the same clay

We stand in judgment
you are to be cast out
who you are an act
as if it was by choice

How do we know
that gay or straight
something of our choosing
or by the hand of Grace

All worthy, holy
all sacred in God’s sight
none of worthy
to judge our neighbor

Needing glasses,
a brace for a leg
assistance with the reading
help with my math

What about my color
my skin or my hair
do I truly choose who I am;
for that I should be damned?


May 3, 2012
inspired
United Methodist Church General Conference
GC2012 – discussions in morning session
poem today, “You are Sin”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/05/you-are-sin.html
&
earlier poem, “Grieving in my spirit – v2”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/grieving-in-my-spirit-v2.html
edited April 29, 2012
&
and earlier poem,
“I am broken, I am hurting”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/i-am-broken-i-am-hurting.html
April 29, 2012
Luke 24:13-16
Luke 22:19
Luke 24:30-21
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission
Postscript:
“The Words After That”
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton

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 17,870+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

You are Sin

Not what you do
my ears unbelieving
hearing some speak against
who my brothers, my sisters are
You are Sin
you who were created
your essence, your nature
nothing you can control
You are Sin
without exception
hurt by the church
the family of God
You are Sin
that couldn’t be what was stated
in the bar of the Conference;
God crying out



May 3, 2012
inspired
United Methodist Church General Conference
GC2012 – discussions in morning session
earlier poem, “Grieving in my spirit – v2”
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2012/04/grieving-in-my-spirit-v2.html
edited April 29, 2012
&
April 28, 2012
Video 4/22/2012
Luke 24:13-16
Luke 22:19
Luke 24:30-21
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission
Postscript:
“The Words After That”
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
&
Chapter 6:
“It is Finished”. . . “Into Your Hands I Commit My Spirit”
John 19:30a
“When Jesus therefore had received the vinegar,
he said, “It is finished”” (KJV)
Luke 23:43:47
Luke 23:46
“And when Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said,
“Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit”:
and having said thus, he gave up the ghost.” (KJV)
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
&
Video 4/1/2012
&
John 19:28-29
Mark 15:22-23
Matthew 27:34
Luke 23:36-37
John 4
John 7
Exodus 12:22
Chapter 5:
“I Thirst”
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
&
video 3/25/2012
&
Mark 15:34
“And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice,
“Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?”
(which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”)”
Mark 15:29-36a
Psalm 22:1
Psalm 22
Chapter 4:
“My God, My God, Why Have Your Forsaken Me?”
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
read March 23, 2012, March 24, 2012, and March 25, 2012
&
Mark 3:35
video 3/18/2012
&
Chapter 3
“Behold Your Son . . . Behold Your Mother”
John 19:26
John 19:25-27
“25 Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.
26 When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son!
27 Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.”
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
read March 17, 2012 and March 18, 2012
&
video 3/11/2012
&
Chapter 2
“Today You Will Be with Me in Paradise”
Luke 23:43
“And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with me in paradise.” (KJV)
Luke 23:32, 39-43
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
read March 4, 2012
&
video 3/4/2012
&
Introduction and Chapter 1,
“Father Forgive them”
Luke 23:34
“Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” (KJV)
Final Words from the Cross
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=9781426746802
by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/bookstore.aspx?contributorid=3827
http://www.facebook.com/RevAdamHamilton
https://twitter.com/#!/RevAdamHamilton
read February 25, 2012
and read February 26, 2012


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 22,500+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

No one has ever seen God

We are blessed by his presence
in spite of the face
no one has ever seen God
yet we know him
we feel him within us
we are joyful
because God’s love
is completed in us


May 3, 2012
1 John 4:12
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

since God so loved us, we ought to love one another

God’s hope, his grace poured out
wanting us to follow, to answer his call
to be his hands and feet, his life in the world
since God so loved us, we ought to love one another
that we would fulfill our commission
God’s hope for the world


May 3, 2012
1 John 4:11
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Love of the cross

Love of sacrifice
love of suffering
love of compassion
thinking of others
Love of the cross
of hope, of promise
love come down
to save us from ourselves


May 3, 2012
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Because God is Love - 2

How can we love
how do we know love
how can we overcome fear
how can we love others
Because God is love
his nature, his presence
his essence, his manner
the fruits of his justice
Because God is love
sending us Jesus
to show us love
submissive, obedient
Sacrificial love
atoning, saving
rising to glory
in victory over self


May 3, 2012
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 3, 2012
read May 3, 2012
&
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Wednesday, May 02, 2012

He sent his son as an atoning sacrifice for our sin

Nothing subtle about the Word
this word of scripture
the statement of purpose
why Christ came to the earth
what the cost was,
even before he descended from heaven
God sent us Christ, God sent his son
as an atoning sacrifice for our sin
to give himself in our place
to free us, new life to begin


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:10
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He loved us

God loved us
Christ loved us
together with the Spirit
giving us life
life in Christ
who came to the earth
life in God, the Father,
who sent him to serve
life in the Spirit
that guides us on the way
love in three persons
blessed Trinity


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:10
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

not that we loved God

not that we loved God
not that we were faithful
that we thought we were rich
filled with the good things of God
that we were loved
that we are loved now
that God loves us still
that he loves us somehow


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:10
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

This is love

This is love
This is love of God
love revealed by Christ
by God’s great love for us
his love poured down
love given to us
offered by Christ
by his life, for us
This is love
This is love of God


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:10
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

that we might live through him

no higher call, no nobler purpose
God sent his son, the living Word
God come down in the Christ
to save us from ourselves
to die in our lowly place
that we might live through him
and him in us


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:9
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God sent his only Son

God gave us love
an example of his love
God sent his one and only Son
to walk here with us
God sent us love
his Son to walk the earth
that we might live through him
the Savior of the world


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:9
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God showed his love among us

God showed his love among us
Christ, love come alive,
the Son of God here with us
walking right beside us
Life in its fullness
God’s example of love
calling us to love
by showing us God’s love


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:9
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 27,410+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Because God is Love

If we do not love
how can we say
we know God
and hate anyway
We do not know God
no one does
anyone who does not love
does not know God
Because God is Love
that is his nature
God showed us love
by the coming of the Savior
His Son sacrificed
atoning for our sin
God in him and he in us


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:7-10
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 27,410+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We do not know God

We do not know God
when we fail to love
we are outside
unaware of the divide
we are born of God
we are children with Christ
everyone who loves
the gate to paradise


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:7-8
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Whoever does not love

The indictment harsh
but equal in God’s sight
whoever does not love
does not know God
a fun-house mirror
our images distorted
what we truly look like
when we disobey the Father



May 2, 2012
1 John 4:8
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Everyone who loves

Everyone who truly loves
born of God, our Father
we each know God
living within our spirit
The Spirit of Christ with us
giving us God’s example of Love
the way to the Father, the way
to love our sisters, our brothers
all people here on earth


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:7
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We are born of God

We are born of God
all of us children
everyone who loves
knowing God
We are his children
the sheep within his pasture
the Shepherd watching
protecting God’s sheep


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:7
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

FREE Dinner - 5/2/2012 - Suncook United Methodist Church

FREE DINNER // Worship service

There will be a free dinner - Our Family’s Table – Chicken stew, corn salad, green salad, with bread, and desserts – 5/2/2012, 5:00 – 6:15pm, - Suncook United Methodist Church, 152 Main Street, Suncook, NH – dinner served at 5:30pm after prayer concerns and grace.

Handicapped accessible via ramp and lift.

Dinners are held from September to early June.

There are also 2+ tables of FREE bread and rolls/ English muffins/ bagel thins.

There will be a worship service after the meal, led by Pastor Ruth Foss, centering on prayer and the Holy Spirit

http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss

love comes from God

we learn love
we are shown love
love comes from God
because he first loves us
because he knows us
love comes from God
sending his son
to show us love
to live our love for us
love come down from heaven
love comes from God


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:7
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 27,410+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

let us love one another

Reading the ancient words
the epistle, the letter
almost hearing them as a pray
lifted up by our God

let us love one another
let us claim God’s great grace
loving as he loves
peace within our hearts


May 2, 2012
1 John 4:7
1 John 4:7-21
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
April 30, 2012 to May 6, 2012
“A Growing Season”
by David Medlin
scripture and meditation for May 2, 2012
read May 2, 2012
&
1 John 3
1 John 4
1 John 5
90 day New Testament Bible Study
read November 19, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Tuesday, May 01, 2012

One flock in Christ

One flock in Christ
all over the world
not separated,
the sheep and the goats,
we all are his sheep
sheep of one flock
together in Christ


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Jesus gathers us in

The wayward sheep
the lost, those gone astray
out into the darkness
the wilderness, the world
Jesus gathers us in
all to his pasture
all his sheep around the world
gathered in by Christ


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

His sheep

the sheep of Christ
our Savior, our Shepherd
Jesus gathers us in
into his pasture
into his arms
following his calling
through the gate of the Lord


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

your pasture

you watch over us Lord
you watch your sheep
those of your pasture
those of your flock
One with each other
one Shepherd ever
we hear your voice
we know your word


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

that voice that we all hear and know

The voice of Christ
our loving shepherd
our guide in this life
in our walk, our journey
that voice that we all hear
his voice that we know
our life, our Savior
our brother over all


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

green pastures by still waters

our peace in you
bringing us to rest
to green pastures by still waters
in you, only you, oh Lord
our peace in you
life in your care
helping us to remain
in your flock, oh Lord


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We shall dwell

We will live with God
we shall dwell
our hope in that future
but we live it now
We shall dwell
we shall live with God
in his house forever
when we follow his call


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

lead us into peace

Guide us through the thickets
the shadow lands
the wilderness
wandering
far from your lands
guide us back
lead us into peace
at the call of the shepherd
his pasture to feed


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He gathers in his sheep


when we are lost, injured
when we are afraid, gone astray
Christ gathers in his sheep
into one flock, one body
into the arms of God
gathered for a purpose
to go and serve the Lord



May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

when we bleat

When we bleat
when we are afraid
he comes to us
the Shepherd hears us
has compassion on us
his sheep, his flock
each one known to him


May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

peaceful still waters


he offered us rest
peaceful still waters
the Spirit deep within
the green pastures of God’s love
the Shepherd guiding
leading on the journey
his voice calling us
through the gate of the cross



May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

you watch over the sheep

You are the shepherd,
good, loving, caring
the shepherd of our lives
the hope of our faith
you watch over the sheep
each one by name
known by you
as we know your voice
the one, our Good Shepherd,
Jesus, our Lord



May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
prayer before offering
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
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
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide

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 17,950+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”, by Pastor Ruth Foss, Suncook United Methodist Church, April 29, 2012

April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide
Worship Theme: The Good Shepherd Lives
Psalm 23 NRSV Bible
Acts 4:8-12 NRSV Bible
John 10:1-18 the Message Bible

“What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”

Shepherd me oh God beyond my wants, beyond my needs, from day into night. . . (Sing)

A reading from the Gospel of John. . . John 10 verses 1-18 (read from the Message Bible).

Let us pray:
Loving, merciful God, we thank you for the Good Shepherd you have given us in Christ Jesus. We thank you that you watch over the sheep of your pasture and would never let them be devoured. Speak to us this morning in that voice that we all hear and know. Thank you for bringing us to green pastures by still waters. Amen.

One of my most favorite children’s songs is Mary Had A Little Lamb. That little lamb surly loved Mary. It followed her every where she went. Even to places that it didn’t belong like to school. It must have known the voice of Mary and so whenever it heard her voice it would run right away to where she was. I am sure she must have taken good care of it because if she hadn’t, it wouldn’t have followed her wherever she went.

So. . . what’s so good about the Good Shepherd? In the Gospel read this morning, we hear about this Good Shepherd. This shepherd. . . Jesus. . . lays down His life for the sheep of His pasture. Jesus laid down his life for the “sheep” of God’s pasture. He took our sin in order for us to enter the green pasture that gives us new life. This shepherd knows His sheep. Jesus knows us. . . His sheep. We have a shepherd that watches over us and when we cry. . . when we bleat. . . in pain and sorrow. . . in fear, He hears us and is right there to save His sheep. He gathers in his sheep. Jesus gathers us in. . . His sheep. . . together so that we may be one flock, not divided like sheep and goats.

(What’s so good about the Good Shepherd?)

Shepherd me o God beyond my wants, beyond my needs, from day into night. . . (Sing)

In the reading of the 23rd Psalm this morning, we hear about a Divine Shepherd. Jesus is our Divine Shepherd and because He is the Divine Shepherd:
a. We shall not want  We shall have rest, peace, forgiveness and guidance. (Green pastures, peaceful still waters, with our souls being restored and be led in the right paths.)
b. We need not fear evil  We have companionship, comfort and concern on our journey. He is with us. His rod and staff gives us comfort. He even prepares a table for us in the presence of those who are our enemies.
c. And in Jesus, we shall dwell in His house forever  We have that now. We have it in the future – life “forever”.

(What’s so good about the Good Shepherd?)

Shepherd me o God beyond my wants, beyond my needs, from day into night. . . (Sing)

The Acts 4 scripture from this morning tells is that there is healing and salvation found in the name of Jesus. . . in the name of the Good Shepherd. The words healing and salvation come from the Greek word sothenai (sow-than-a-i) which means to be saved and made whole. There is physical healing for the body and a spiritual healing for everyone who calls on the name of the Good Shepherd. We are made whole. . . we are made one with and in God and each other. When we are one there is peace. (What’s so good about the Good Shepherd?)
Shepherd me o God beyond my wants, beyond my needs, from day into night. . . (Sing)

We live in a world that has so many things trying to get our attention. There are so many people and things that want us to follow them and it that it can be very confusing. We try to follow what is right but we sometimes come up short. We try to do the right thing but sometimes what we follow leaves us just as empty and fearful as we were in the beginning. We think we hear the voice calling to us but it only ends up being an echo of the hired hand running away leaving us alone and afraid, bleating. . . crying out for someone to rescue and lead us into peace.

But we need to attune our ear to the voice of the One who laid down their life for us. . . the One who will never leave us. . . the One who is with us wherever we go...the voice of the Good Shepherd. Who is the shepherd that you and I are following? Are we being lead into green pastures with peaceful waters or are we following the leader of the world around us? How can we. . . you and I. . . follow the example of the shepherd and not that of the hired hand? It can be hard in a world full of noise and confusion all around us. . . in a world full of “wolves in sheep’s clothing”. . . in a world where there are things that call us out of the pasture and into the “dung heap”.
Shepherd me O God beyond my wants, beyond my needs, from day into night. . . (Sing)

We are called to follow the True Shepherd. . . the one who wants us to have a new life, restored and forgiven. We are called to know the Shepherd who calls us out of the darkness and into the light of His pasture. We are called to obey the True Shepherd who asks us to help Him find the lost sheep and to bring them into the sheepfold of His love, His mercy, His grace and forgiveness. We are called to be mirror images of the Shepherd. Kind of like apprentices to the Shepherd. . . learning from Him and going out to practice what we have learned. . . Do you know of any lost sheep? Is there anyone around us that needs the healing and restoration found in the One True Shepherd? Brothers and sisters of the pasture. . . It’s round up time. . . we. . . all of Christ’s sheep. . . need to be out there listening for the sound of those lost sheep bleating in the dark and bringing them back to the one who can make them whole and so that the “Son” (Capital “S”) can shine on their lives. What’s so good about the Good Shepherd? What’s so good is that He came to bring in the least, the lost and the forgotten into the pasture of peace. . . He came so that we could have forgiveness and redemption. . . this Shepherd became a sheep. . . that paschal Lamb. . . that sin offering for you and for me. That’s what is so good about this Good Shepherd. . . that’s the message we share with the world around us. Are we ready for the round up?! Now go out there and wrestle some sheep for the Good Shepherd in this world!

Amen!

May 1, 2012
John 10:1-18 (The Message bible)
Psalm 23 (NRSV)
Acts 4:8-12 (NRSV)
Worship Theme: “The Good Shepherd Lives”
Call to Worship (Abington Worship 2012)
Unison Prayer (Abington Worship 2012)
Prayer of Dedication  (GBOD Acts 4:5-12)
and sermon, “What’s so Good About the Good Shepherd?”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday of Eastertide


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 37,710+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.