In the madness of these hours – v2

Stay the course, do not waver,
do not change course, despairing,
stand resolute in the maelstrom,
for the arc of history is bending,
toward justice, ever closer,
the tide will turn in an instant,
at a tipping point, soon arriving,
all that was lost will be vindicated,
your time of peace will come…
 
We must all stand together,
shoulder to shoulder, stronger,
more certainly than ever before,
for this moment requires fidelity,
faithfulness despite the challenges,
the attack of the enemy, overcoming,
both in our bodies and our spirits,
knowing that the cause is worthy,
the fight is worth the cost…
 
We must stand with one another,
united in resolve, in resistance,
a model for their nation, for humanity,
standing against terror, genocide,
a beacon not by choice, but by trial,
rising to this moment, courageous,
calling us to stand with your people,
to be the arsenal of freedom,
to Stand with your Ukraine…
 
===================
Edited February 22, 2025
In the madness of these hours – v2
 
Edited February 21, 2025
Three years of genocide – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/three-years-of-genocide-v2-three-years.html
Edited December 12, 2024
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v6
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/12/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v6.html
Day of the Ukrainian Land Forces
Edited November 29, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v5
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v5.html
Edited March 31, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v4
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v4.html
Edited November 19, 2023
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v3.html
Edited November 19, 2023
Crying for Crimea, for Ukraine – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/crying-for-crimea-for-ukraine-v2_19.html
Edited March 31, 2024
Ukraine must Win – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win-v2.html
March 19, 2024
Ukraine must Win
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win.html
March 19, 2024
Statement by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin
https://www.defense.gov/News/Speeches/Speech/Article/3710899/opening-remarks-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-at-the-20th-ukraine/
at Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Germany
“The United States will not let Ukraine fail.
This coalition will not let Ukraine fail, and
the free world will not let Ukraine fail,”
&
Neither the word “win” nor the word “victory”
Is included in Austin’s opening remarks…
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, Ukraine, victory, hope, courage, heroes, Slava Ukraini, US, NATO, EU, proxy, Arm Ukraine Now, Bucha, Irpin, Izium, Mariupol, terror, genocide,
 
#Poetry #Ukraine #victory #hope #courage #heroes #SlavaUkraini #US #NATO #EU #Bucha #Irpin #Isium #Mariupol #terror #genocide #toretsk #Vuhledar #Rubizhne #Bakhmut #Avdiivka #ChasivYar #Soledar #Kherson #Kyiv #Odesa #StandWithUkraine

In the madness of these hours

Do not change course, despairing,
stand resolute in the maelstrom,
the arc of history is bending,
toward justice, ever closer,
the tide will turn in an instant,
at a tipping point, soon coming,
all that was lost will be vindicated,
your time of peace will come…
 
We must all stand together,
more certainly than ever,
for this moment requires fidelity,
faithfulness despite the challenges,
the attack of the enemy, overcoming,
both in the body and the spirit,
knowing that the cause is worthy,
the fight is worth the cost…
 
United in resolve, in resistance,
a model for the nation, humanity,
standing against terror, genocide,
a beacon not by choice, by trial,
rising to this moment, courageous,
calling us to stand with you,
to be the arsenal of freedom,
to Stand with Ukraine…
 
===================
February 22, 2025
In the madness of these hours
 
Edited February 21, 2025
Three years of genocide – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/three-years-of-genocide-v2-three-years.html
February 21, 2025
Three years of genocide
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/three-years-of-genocide.html
Edited December 12, 2024
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v6
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/12/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v6.html
Day of the Ukrainian Land Forces
Edited November 29, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v5
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v5.html
Edited March 31, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v4
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v4.html
Edited November 19, 2023
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v3.html
Edited November 19, 2023
Crying for Crimea, for Ukraine – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/crying-for-crimea-for-ukraine-v2_19.html
Edited March 31, 2024
Ukraine must Win – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win-v2.html
March 19, 2024
Ukraine must Win
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win.html
March 19, 2024
Statement by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin
https://www.defense.gov/News/Speeches/Speech/Article/3710899/opening-remarks-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-at-the-20th-ukraine/
at Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Germany
“The United States will not let Ukraine fail.
This coalition will not let Ukraine fail, and
the free world will not let Ukraine fail,”
&
Neither the word “win” nor the word “victory”
Is included in Austin’s opening remarks…
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, Ukraine, victory, hope, courage, heroes, Slava Ukraini, US, NATO, EU, proxy, Arm Ukraine Now, Bucha, Irpin, Izium, Mariupol, terror, genocide,
 
#Poetry #Ukraine #victory #hope #courage #heroes #SlavaUkraini #US #NATO #EU #Bucha #Irpin #Isium #Mariupol #terror #genocide #toretsk #Vuhledar #Rubizhne #Bakhmut #Avdiivka #ChasivYar #Soledar #Kherson #Kyiv #Odesa

in the crucible of this moment – v4

in the crucible of this moment,
conflicting positions, their posture,
in the gathering storm of trial,
on the front lines, in the trenches,
the start of negotiations, a sham,
a canard, a lie, no seats at the table,
warring factions, enemies colluding,
familiar words rising, treason, betrayal,
in the exigency, the existential threat, terror,
how we have been here before, in our history,
life and death, sovereignty, pulled from the ether,
caught in the swirling maelstrom, the agony,
feeling the ground moving under our feet,
a genocide against these people, martyrs
of this now, this moment, this time of suffering,
knowing the evil that is ascendent, the lies spoken,
positions, lines crossed, far too many lives lost…
 
in the crucible of this moment,
pausing to reflect, to ponder, but no time,
the maelstrom of terror, of genocide, in truth,
a sea change, shifting sands of time, of positions,
swirling around the continent, their nations,
pulling everything out of alignment, disturbing,
a natural order, all sense of balance, of normalcy,
a fight they did not want, the role of a proxy, a pawn,
in between the superpowers in a multi-polar world,
a legacy of history more than the future, what is coming,
a different stage of world history rapidly unfolding, morphing
into a new reality, a manifestation of the times, the goals,
of warring factions, of tribes, of peoples, technology,
more than affinity, collective, swirling, surging rising,
to take the oxygen, the initiative, this moment,
hidden agencies, secrets, unspoken alliances, war,
positions, lines crossed, far too many lives lost…
-------
Edited February 21, 2025
in the crucible of this moment – v4
 
Edited February 17, 2025
In the crucible of this moment – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/in-crucible-of-this-moment-v3.html
Edited February 17, 2025
Europe must act - v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/europe-must-act-v2.html
Edited February 17, 2025
giving oxygen to Evil – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/giving-oxygen-to-evil-v2.html
Edited February 17, 2025
Negotiating with Evil – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/negotiating-with-evil-v2.html
edited February 15, 2025
Restored Sovereignty – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/restored-sovereignty-v2.html
edited February 15, 2025
Three years of terror, of genocide – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/three-years-of-terror-genocide-v2.html
March 5, 2022
Don’t give Ukraine to the Madman
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2022/03/dont-give-ukraine-to-madman.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
--------------
poetry, Ukraine, Russia, NATO, war, invasion, Putin, terror, genocide, Crimea, 1000 Days, Three Years, Europe,
 
#poetry #Ukraine #Russia #NATO #war #invasion #Putin #terror #genocide #Crimea #StandWithUkraine #RussiaIsATerroristState #1000Days #ThreeYears #Europe

Three years of genocide – v2

Three years of genocide,
eleven, if we are honest,
an invasion, terror, seeking
to destroy, to exterminate,
to remove this nation state…
 
Three years of genocide,
of unrelenting evil, torment,
violations, war crimes,
Crimes against Humanity,
day after painful day…
 
Three years of genocide,
that must shock the conscience,
that must make the world act,
to end the slaughter, the pain,
so many innocents lost…
 
Three years of genocide,
eleven, if we are honest,
war that should never have started,
if we had remembered our promise,
“never again”, we told them,
but Never Again is now…

 
===================
Edited February 21, 2025
Three years of genocide – v2
 
February 21, 2025
Three years of genocide
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/three-years-of-genocide.html
Edited December 12, 2024
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v6
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/12/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v6.html
Day of the Ukrainian Land Forces
Edited November 29, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v5
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v5.html
Edited March 31, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v4
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v4.html
Edited November 19, 2023
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v3.html
Edited November 19, 2023
Crying for Crimea, for Ukraine – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/crying-for-crimea-for-ukraine-v2_19.html
Edited March 31, 2024
Ukraine must Win – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win-v2.html
March 19, 2024
Ukraine must Win
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win.html
March 19, 2024
Statement by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin
https://www.defense.gov/News/Speeches/Speech/Article/3710899/opening-remarks-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-at-the-20th-ukraine/
at Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Germany
“The United States will not let Ukraine fail.
This coalition will not let Ukraine fail, and
the free world will not let Ukraine fail,”
&
Neither the word “win” nor the word “victory”
Is included in Austin’s opening remarks…
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, Ukraine, victory, hope, courage, heroes, Slava Ukraini, US, NATO, EU, proxy, Arm Ukraine Now, Bucha, Irpin, Izium, Mariupol, terror, genocide,
 
#Poetry #Ukraine #victory #hope #courage #heroes #SlavaUkraini #US #NATO #EU #Bucha #Irpin #Isium #Mariupol #terror #genocide #toretsk #Vuhledar #Rubizhne #Bakhmut #Avdiivka #ChasivYar #Soledar #Kherson #Kyiv #Odesa

forgive those who have hurt you – v2

release your hold upon them,
let your hands be at peace,
give your pain to God,
forgive those who have hurt you,
to reclaim your life…
 
do not hold onto anger,
the pain, the disquiet,
demons that ensnare you,
let go of retribution,
give justice unto God…
 
God loves you deeply,
offering you salvation,
God wants you to be happy,
God has forgiven you completely,
through the sacrifice of Christ…
 
forgive one another,
each brother, each sister,
as you have been forgiven,
forgive those who have hurt you,
walk in God’s light…
 
God will take care of justice
for He alone is righteous,
out of His infinity mercy,
give you pain, your hurt to God,
to reclaim your life…
 
----- 
Edited February 21, 2025
forgive those who have hurt you - v2
 
Based on #Ephesians4:22
re:generation, Week 5, Day 4
February 20, 2025
Am I ready
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/am-i-ready.html
Based on #Isaiah1:18-20
re:generation, Week 5, Day 3
February 19, 2025
I confess my sin - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/i-confess-my-sin-3.html
re:generation, Week 5, Day 2
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/isolated-in-shadows_18.html
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
February 18, 2025
Be open, vulnerable
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, forgive, forgiven, forgiveness,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer #forgiveness #forgive #forgiven

Three years of genocide

Three years of genocide,
Eleven, if we are honest,
An invasion, terror,
Trying to exterminate,
To remove this nation state…
 
Three years of genocide,
Of unrelenting evil,
Violations, war crimes,
Crimes against humanity,
Day after day…
 
Three years of genocide,
That must shock the conscience,
That must make the world take action,
To end the slaughter, the pain,
So many innocents lost…
 
Three years of genocide,
Eleven, if we are honest,
A war that should never have started,
If we had remembered our promise,
Never again, we said…

 
===================
February 21, 2025
Three years of genocide
 
Edited December 12, 2024
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v6
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/12/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v6.html
Day of the Ukrainian Land Forces
Edited November 29, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v5
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v5.html
Edited March 31, 2024
The blood of the dead of Bucha – v4
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v4.html
Edited November 19, 2023
The blood of the dead in Bucha – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/the-blood-of-dead-in-bucha-v3.html
Edited November 19, 2023
Crying for Crimea, for Ukraine – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2023/11/crying-for-crimea-for-ukraine-v2_19.html
Edited March 31, 2024
Ukraine must Win – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win-v2.html
March 19, 2024
Ukraine must Win
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2024/03/ukraine-must-win.html
March 19, 2024
Statement by US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin
https://www.defense.gov/News/Speeches/Speech/Article/3710899/opening-remarks-by-secretary-of-defense-lloyd-j-austin-iii-at-the-20th-ukraine/
at Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting in Germany
“The United States will not let Ukraine fail.
This coalition will not let Ukraine fail, and
the free world will not let Ukraine fail,”
&
Neither the word “win” nor the word “victory”
Is included in Austin’s opening remarks…
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
Poetry, Ukraine, victory, hope, courage, heroes, Slava Ukraini, US, NATO, EU, proxy, Arm Ukraine Now, Bucha, Irpin, Izium, Mariupol, terror, genocide,
 
#Poetry #Ukraine #victory #hope #courage #heroes #SlavaUkraini #US #NATO #EU #Bucha #Irpin #Isium #Mariupol #terror #genocide #toretsk #Vuhledar #Rubizhne #Bakhmut #Avdiivka #ChasivYar #Soledar #Kherson #Kyiv #Odesa

forgive those who have hurt you

release your hold upon them
give your pain to God
forgive those who have hurt you,
to reclaim your life…
 
do not hold onto anger
demons that ensnare you
let go of retribution,
give justice unto God…
 
God loves you deeply
God wants you to be happy
God has forgiven you completely,
through the sacrifice of Christ…
 
forgive one another
as you have been forgiven
forgive those who have hurt you,
walk in God’s light…
 
God will take care of justice
out of His infinity mercy
give you pain, your hurt to God,
to reclaim your life…
 
----- 
February 21, 2025
forgive those who have hurt you
 
Based on #Ephesians4:22
re:generation, Week 5, Day 4
February 20, 2025
Am I ready
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/am-i-ready.html
Based on #Isaiah1:18-20
re:generation, Week 5, Day 3
February 19, 2025
I confess my sin - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/i-confess-my-sin-3.html
re:generation, Week 5, Day 2
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/isolated-in-shadows_18.html
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
February 18, 2025
Be open, vulnerable
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, forgive, forgiven, forgiveness,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer #forgiveness #forgive #forgiven

forgive those who have hurt you

forgive those who have hurt you

#Ephesians4:22 #God #prayer #forgiveness #forgive #forgiven #Christ 

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. All of my poems are at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Am I ready

am I willing
am I ready
do I want change
to heal my life…
 
will I be open
will I be honest
before God and others
about my life…
 
healing will come
only if I am authentic
if I am transparent
in my walk…
 
life can be better
if I am honest
open, vulnerable
before God and others…
 
----- 
February 20, 2025
Am I ready
 
Based on #Isaiah1:18-20
re:generation, Week 5, Day 3
February 19, 2025
I confess my sin - 3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/i-confess-my-sin-3.html
re:generation, Week 5, Day 2
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/isolated-in-shadows_18.html
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
February 18, 2025
Be open, vulnerable
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Isaiah 1,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

Better than myself – v2

Lord, You love me,
You know me, fully,
better than myself,
even that which I hide
from the world,
You know everything, yet,
You restore me daily,
out of Your great love…
 
Lord, You heal me,
from my pain, my struggle,
You raise my jagged pieces,
I am clay on the Potter’s wheel,
gathered and reshaped,
into a useful vessel,
I am molded for Your purpose,
Your calling for my life…
 
Lord, You show me,
daily Your love for me,
abundant blessings,
redeeming me, offering,
Your grace and protection,
Your mercy, oh God,
for this and more I am grateful,
may I ever sing Your praise…
 
Lord, continue to bless me,
out of Your great love for me,
reach down and touch me,
even when I am broken,
when I run from You,
do not forsake me,
when I feel alone, help me
to know You are by my side…
 
----- 
Edited February 18, 2025
Better than myself – v2
 
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Proverbs 18,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

In the finished work of Christ – v2

In the finished work of Christ,
in ministry, on the cross,
in the resurrection, ascension,
now seat on the throne,
I am forgiven, made righteous,
my salvation is assured…
 
In the finished work of Christ,
His triumph over sin and death,
all my fears put to rest, victors,
I wear a crown of righteousness,
I am richly blessed, gifted,
in Him I have new life…
 
In the finished work of Christ,
the hope for humanity, for life,
raised from the dead, redeemed,
a way through the waters of life,
to stand with Him in heaven,
to praise God forevermore…
 
----
Edited February 19, 2025
In the finished work of Christ – v2
 
Based on #Psalm23
Based on #John19:28-30
Men’s group meeting
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, Psalm 23, salvation
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #salvation

You never said the words – v2

Dad, I know your heart, what you felt,
you showed me the best you could,
with the things you did, how you lived your life,
little things, caring for me, for us,
offering guidance, your strength,
but I needed something more,
for you were my God, my idol,
you never said the words,
how I longed to hear them, Dad,
that you loved me here on earth,
I know you loved me through what you did,
but how I needed to hear your voice,
saying, “I love you, Ray”, instead…

‐---‐--
Edited February 19, 2025
You never said the words – v2
re:generation Week 4 small group meeting
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, love, fathers, words,

 
#God #poetry #fathers #love #words

Wisdom as treasure – v2

We drink from the font of knowledge,
from the cup of wisdom,
life-giving waters,
Your holy Word
treasure of holy scripture,
a life-force, a truth,
to heal, to restore,
our life, our immortal soul...
 
We come before You, oh Lord,
to drink of this gift, these blessings,
to be fed by Your love, Your offering,
Your forgiveness of us,
Your gift of the cross,
of the empty tomb,
of redemption,
of eternal life…
 
-----
Edited February 19, 2025
Wisdom as treasure – v2
 
February 11, 2025
Wisdom as treasure
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/wisdom-as-treasure.html
Based on #Proverbs2:1-9
Based on #Proverbs2:1-22
Men’s Group February 8, 2025
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, wisdom, scripture, Proverbs 2,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #wisdom #scripture

I confess my sin - 3

I confess my sin,
my secrets, my troubles,
my estrangement from You,
my Lord, my God…
 
I come before You seeking forgiveness,
heal me, Lord, in my inmost self,
do not turn Your face from me,
I want to live within Your love…
 
I confess my sins,
I want to turn from them,
I long to dwell
in Your arms of love…
 
Heal me, Jesus,
my risen Savior,
walk with me, Spirit,
my loving God…
 
----- 
February 19, 2025
I confess my sin - 3
 
Based on #Psalm32:3-5
Based on #1John1:9
Based on #James5:16
re:generation, Week 5, Day 2
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/isolated-in-shadows_18.html
Based on #Matthew10:30
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
February 18, 2025
Be open, vulnerable
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Psalm 32, 1 John 1, James 5,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

Isolated in shadows - v2

don’t carry your burdens alone, in silence,
isolated in shadows, in darkness,
hiding your pain, your secrets,
your troubles, your unspoken shame…
 
open up, be honest, take ground, move forward,
share your feelings, your true self, freely,
with one another, trusting,
that God will bring your healing…
 
life is a journey, a trial, a test, a gift, 
God wants us to walk with one another,
the way may be hard, challenging at times,
but we should lean on each other… 
 
----- 
Edited February 19, 2025
Isolated in shadows - v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/isolated-in-shadows-v2.html
Based on #Matthew10:30
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
Edited February 19, 2025
Be open, vulnerable - v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable-v2.html
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/isolated-in-shadows_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Proverbs 18,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

Be open, vulnerable - v2

be open, vulnerable, authentic, honest
share yourself in the light, openly,
your history, your past, your pain,
share with one another…
 
God wants you to be healed,
to live a life of abundance,
let down your guard, take off your mask,
share with your sisters and brothers…
 
only in releasing your pain, your burdens,
can you live the life God has written,
so take a leap of faith, be open, honest,
lean on those you love, you trust,
speak in love with one another…
 
-----
Edited February 19, 2025
Be open, vulnerable - v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable-v2.html
Based on #Matthew10:30
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/isolated-in-shadows_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Proverbs 18,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

Isolated in shadows

don’t carry your burdens alone,
isolated in shadows, in darkness,
hiding your pain, your secrets,
your troubles, your unspoken shame…
 
open up, be honest, take ground, move forward,
share your feelings, your true self,
with one another, trusting,
that God will bring your healing…
 
life is a journey, a trial, a test,
but God wants us to walk with one another,
the way may be hard, challenging at times,
but we should lean on each other…

 
----- 
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
 
Based on #Matthew10:30
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
February 18, 2025
Be open, vulnerable
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Proverbs 18,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

Be open, vulnerable

be open, vulnerable, authentic,
share yourself in the light,
your history, your past, your pain,
with one another…
 
God wants you to be healed,
to live a life of abundance,
let down your guard, your mask,
share with your sisters and brothers…
 
only in releasing your pain, your burdens,
can you live the life God has written,
so take a leap of faith, be open, honest,
lean on those you love, you trust,
in love with one another…

----- 
February 18, 2025
Be open, vulnerable
 
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Proverbs 18,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

Better than myself

Lord, You love me,
You know me, fully,
better than myself,
You restore me daily,
out of Your great love…
 
Lord, You heal me,
I am clay on the Potter’s wheel,
gathered and reshaped,
I am molded for Your purpose,
Your calling for my life…
 
Lord, You show me,
daily Your love for me,
redeeming me, offering,
Your grace and protection,
Your mercy, oh God…
 
Lord, continue to bless me,
out of Your great love for me,
even when I am broken,
when I feel alone, help me
to know You are by my side…

 
----- 
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
 
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Proverbs 18,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer

Isolated in shadows

Isolated in shadows 

#prayer #poetry #pain #faith #trust

----- 
February 18, 2025
Isolated in shadows
 
Based on #Matthew10:30
Based on #Proverbs18:1
re:generation, Week 5, Day 1
February 18, 2025
Be open, vulnerable
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/be-open-vulnerable_18.html
February 18, 2025
Better than myself
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2025/02/better-than-myself_18.html
 
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, and 2025. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com)  for usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
 
==================
Poetry, God, Christ, Spirit, love, grace, regeneration, Proverbs 18,
 
#poetry #God #Christ #Spirit #love #grace #prayer