Poetry Where You Live

may we trust

2012-02-01T19:59:00.001-05:00

May we trust
trusting in God
His great love
given up
that authority
that sacrifice
His promise of life
the Word, God

May we trust
bowing on our knees
falling, submitting
giving to God’s plan
the authority, the gifts
given to us
our hands to the work
each to do their part.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,290+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In the silence of the circle

2012-02-01T16:59:00.001-05:00

In the silence of the circle
the presence of God
the stillness of prayer
the whisper of the Spirit
hope for tomorrow
the promise of our Savior
we will find these there.

February 1, 2012
Wednesday evening worship
Third of series on prayer,
inspired by Marcia McFee,
“All My Days: A Summer of Prayer”,
Third Sunday: Silence
and meditation
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
February 1, 2012
&
Wednesday evening worship
Second of series on prayer,
inspired by Marcia McFee,
“All My Days: A Summer of Prayer”,
Second Sunday: Bumpy Bead
1 John 4:7-21
and meditation
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
January 25, 2012
&
Wednesday evening worship
start of series on prayer,
inspired by Marcia McFee,
“All My Days: A Summer of Prayer”,
First Sunday: God
Psalm 105:1-6
Isaiah 56:1-8
Acts 17:22-32
poem, “Pied Beauty”,
by Gerard Manley Hopkins
and meditation
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
January 11, 2012

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 15,280+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Kingdom of God is nearer

2012-02-01T16:55:00.001-05:00

The kingdom of God is nearer
than we realize, than we fear
love come down, living in Christ
here with us still
the Spirit beating inside
in each beating heart
in each neighbor needing love
hope for tomorrow
God’s word inside
the light of Christ shining
burning in our lives
the kingdom of God nearer
when we share his love.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Have you embraced your authority

2012-02-01T16:46:00.002-05:00

Do you hide your love, your gifts
do you let others shine the light
have you embraced your authority
your witness, God’s love
what you have been given
the blessings poured out
Do you share richly
all of God’s love
the Spirit’s riches
poured out on you.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,290+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

no such thing as a small thing

2012-02-01T16:38:00.002-05:00

Each of us called to do our part
whether we think it small or large
no such thing as a small thing
in the service of God
in sharing his message, his love
the grace of the Father
sending us his Son,
each of us a part of the body
of the love of God come down
we are can contribute, lift up
our neighbors, the strangers
all of us serving, no such thing
as a small thing in the service of God.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,290+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

adding to the work of others – v2

2012-02-01T16:13:00.003-05:00

We should remember, be satisfied
we are not called to be Jesus
to even stand as Moses
a prophet to guide the people
to speak directly for God.
Ours is to be faithful,
we each should be doing our part
adding to the work of others
showing God’s love
as we each have been enabled
doing the work of God.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

adding to the work of others

2012-02-01T16:10:00.001-05:00

We should remember, be satisfied
we are not called to be Jesus
to even stand as Moses
a prophet to guide the people
to speak directly for God.
Ours is to be faithful,
we each should be doing our part
adding to the work of others
showing God’s love.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

your vision of authority

2012-02-01T16:04:00.001-05:00

take a look at how you walk
the authority you have been given
do you share God’s love
are your motives righteous
what is your vision of authority
are you compassionate, like Jesus
do you need to change your point of view
are you humble, as a servant

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

with compassion

2012-02-01T15:50:00.001-05:00

use your freedom, authority
the word of love, of grace
use the gifts from God gently
with compassion, as did Christ.

He is our exemplar,
the example in life
let the Spirit guide you,
on the journey each day.

we are given power
the living, revealed word
use this wisely, humbly
as we go out to Your world.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Free Dinner - Our Family's Table - Suncook United Methodist Church

2012-02-01T15:09:00.001-05:00

FREE DINNER – Our Family's Table - Suncook United Methodist Church, 152 Main Street, Suncook, NH – Chicken stew, rice, tossed salad, and homemade biscuits. FREE BREAD too. 2/1/2012, 5:00 – 6:30pm, dinner served at 5:30pm.

Worship service in sanctuary immediately following.

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

May we use authority wisely

2012-02-01T14:07:00.003-05:00

When we are called to the breach
to stand up for Christ
when we see injustice
may we stand up for the right.
May we use authority wisely
may we speak out of lov
sharing God richly
walking with the Christ
Joining other Christians
those who claim his name
following the Spirit’s leading
never to fall again

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Little things for the kingdom

2012-02-01T13:48:00.002-05:00

Together, great works
each of us doing our part
little things for the kingdom
little acts of grace
Showing the love of Jesus
the grace of our Lord
going, serving, humbly
treasure yet in store.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We have the authority

2012-02-01T13:43:00.002-05:00

We have the authority,
we are endowed by our creator
given gifts from God
to go and serve the kingdom.
Each one of us, beloved children,
able to serve the Father
out in his vineyards,
to go and do the work
to raise the body up
each of us commissioned
to show the Father’s love.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Embracing Silence

2012-02-01T13:22:00.001-05:00

Stilling myself, in spite of myself
embracing silence
entering prayer
Quieting myself
to hear your word
Speak to me Lord,
whisper to me,
share your love,
offer a blessing
sent from above.

February 1, 2012
Wednesday evening worship
Third of series on prayer,
inspired by Marcia McFee,
“All My Days: A Summer of Prayer”,
Third Sunday: Silence
and meditation
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
February 1, 2012
&
Wednesday evening worship
Second of series on prayer,
inspired by Marcia McFee,
“All My Days: A Summer of Prayer”,
Second Sunday: Bumpy Bead
1 John 4:7-21
and meditation
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
January 25, 2012
&
Wednesday evening worship
start of series on prayer,
inspired by Marcia McFee,
“All My Days: A Summer of Prayer”,
First Sunday: God
Psalm 105:1-6
Isaiah 56:1-8
Acts 17:22-32
poem, “Pied Beauty”,
by Gerard Manley Hopkins
and meditation
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
January 11, 2012

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 15,280+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

great things for the kingdom

2012-02-01T13:11:00.001-05:00

What will you answer
what will you say
when you come before Christ
what will you say?

Did you do your part
great things for the kingdom
did you take up your cross
did you share his love richly?

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

what we don’t do

2012-02-01T13:07:00.001-05:00

What we don’t do
when commissioned by God
the things we don’t say
where we refused to go
What we don’t do
just as important
authority abused,
authority wasted.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

the authority to teach others

2012-02-01T12:59:00.001-05:00

in the telling of the story
before Christ departed
before he ascended
back to his throne,
Christ spoke to them
to all who would follow
Christ spoke to us
to go into the world

the authority to teach others
to share our own witness
God’s revelation in our own lives
the authority to follow,
to go where he leads us
the Spirit leading still
deep within, guiding
to share with others
the hope for our future
the love of our God

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

a gift, a privilege

2012-02-01T12:54:00.001-05:00

a gift, a privilege
to work for the kingdom
our light, our gifts
speaking through us
God’s message,
hope for the world
carrying richly
God’s holy word.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,280+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

to talk of love

2012-02-01T12:48:00.001-05:00

Our lives richer
the word alive
the Word made flesh
the Word in our hands
to talk of love
a gift, a privilege
share God richly
all who believe

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

to speak truth

2012-02-01T10:34:00.001-05:00

Each of us sent
authority from God
to speak truth
found in the Word.
Holy, commissioned
apprenticed for the work,
light for the world
strength in the word,
the living word of God.
Empowered, emboldened,
the Spirit within
a fire raging
a light for the world.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Come with me Peter

2012-02-01T10:19:00.001-05:00

Was it a whisper, a prayer,
the calling of Christ
the rock, foundation
on this was the church.
Come with me Peter
away from the sea
come and follow
and you will believe.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

And Jesus said

2012-02-01T10:14:00.001-05:00

rise from your life
from the shore
leave all behind
come and follow me
for I am the Christ.
New catch,
other seas
rise and follow
come after me.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Cast Your Nets Here

2012-02-01T10:10:00.000-05:00

In the deep water
out in the world
cast your nets here
fed by the word.

Go with me
where I will lead,
come and follow
come and believe.

February 1, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we can speak of God – v2

2012-02-01T09:42:00.001-05:00

Maybe not prophets,
certainly not Christ,
more humble, lowly
yet we too can share
we can speak of God
filled with his message
the word of his love.

We are all commissioned
sent by the Christ
the Spirit within us
carrying God’s light
our lives for him
our path his
walking with him
how great that is.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we study His word – v2

2012-02-01T09:39:00.001-05:00

we study His word
the living word of God
revealing truths to us,
ways to live our lives.
sharing with others
the gifts which we have
our witness, our light
the love of our God.

February 1, 2012
January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we can relay His word to others

2012-02-01T09:37:00.001-05:00

we can relay God’s word to others
God’s light to the world
His word within us
the authority to share
each of us given a part
a role we too can play
God’s hope within us
to share the light of day.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

in the vineyard

2012-02-01T09:34:00.001-05:00

we are sent to work
to do our part
in the vineyards,
in the fields
sent to reach others
with the light of God’s word

Hope in the power
the word of salvation
bringing us to him
others by our side
other workers with us
together with our God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

the authority to work

2012-02-01T09:31:00.001-05:00

God sends us out into the world
with the authority to work,
to sow, to plant, to water,
each to do our part,
in the vineyard, in the fields,
sharing the word of God.

God sends us out into the world
with the authority to work
to bring Christ to them
to change hearts to God
God’s word within us
a harvest for the Lord.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we can speak of God

2012-02-01T09:26:00.001-05:00

Maybe not prophets,
certainly not Christ,
more humble, lowly
yet we too can share
we can speak of God
filled with his message
the word of his love.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we all do our part

2012-02-01T09:22:00.002-05:00

Not all of us are prophets
not all of us are priests
we all have work to do
we must all do our part.

Our life together is important
part of one body
the living body of Christ
together a tidal wave
a ripple on the seas.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

on the waters of society

2012-02-01T09:19:00.001-05:00

step onto the waters
on the waters of society
the authority God imparted
to go into the world
life is too important
what we must share
the word we have been given
to go boldly there.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

to speak on our Father’s behalf

2012-02-01T09:13:00.003-05:00

We are blessed
anointed by Christ
Commissioned to make disciples
to carry God’s light.
to speak on our Father’s behalf
in the power of His Word,
to offer God that witness,
proudly in the world.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Let us go out

2012-02-01T09:09:00.001-05:00

Commissioned to serve
to go forth into the world
let us go out, confident
sure of the word.
God’s message for us
a light to the world,
hope in sharing
God’s holy word.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Jesus has the authority

2012-02-01T09:05:00.001-05:00

Jesus has the authority
because He is God,
a new teaching for us
in the living Word.
here to heal us,
to bring us back to God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we study His word

2012-02-01T09:03:00.001-05:00

we study His word
the living word of God
revealing truths to us,
ways to live our lives.
sharing with others
the gifts which we have
our witness, our light
given to us by God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we know His word

2012-02-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

we, like the prophet,
speak with authority
not in words spoken to us,
but in the spoken word of God,
written down for us
in the scriptures revealed.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,270+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

the actual words of God

2012-01-31T19:30:00.000-05:00

look closely, listen to what they said
the prophets spoke the word of God
just what He said,
conveying the message for us
all the people of God
speaking directly to us
the living Word of God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,260+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

from God’s mouth

2012-01-31T19:23:00.002-05:00

They shared more than a teaching
a bit of wisdom, gleaned from the word
They spoke directly, the Word of God
from God’s mouth speaking
a word of caution, a word of comfort
a word of instruction for God’s people
whatever was needed, whatever God spoke
speaking to them, the words of God’s mouth.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,260+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

They Speak Directly

2012-01-31T18:59:00.001-05:00

The special role of the prophet
the intermediary to God
speaking what God says
to the people of God.
Nothing of their own words
careful to be true
speaking only what God says
that is their special gift
the burden of their role
speaking with God says
to the people in their care.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,260+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He is God incarnate

2012-01-31T18:52:00.001-05:00

Christ is the Father,
He is the Son,
the Spirit still living
walking here with us.
Christ is God incarnate
the Word made flesh
come to save us
to teach us from the best.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,260+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

a sinless life

2012-01-31T18:48:00.001-05:00

Not just a new message
God’s holy Word,
God’s light, shining in the world
Christ lived a sinless life
an example for us all
choosing to sacrifice
his words never to fall.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,260+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ is the Word

2012-01-31T18:43:00.001-05:00

Christ is the Word
God’s Word come alive
not merely a prophet
speaking the word of God
Christ far different
God’s only Son
come to save us
to bring us home to him

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,260+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ spoke with passion

2012-01-31T18:40:00.000-05:00

He was the Messiah,
the one long foretold
the prophet, the teacher
sharing a new word.
The words of God
alive, they are him
come from heaven
new life to begin.
Speaking with passion
a new word from God
come to save us
to restore us to him.
Christ alive, with us still
the Spirit still speaking
if we will listen to him.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,260+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Only the word spoken

2012-01-31T18:32:00.002-05:00

The prophets of God
sent to the people
chosen from among them
to speak the word of God.
Only the word spoken
nothing of themselves
speaking what God had spoken
what he had given for them to speak.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,250+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Speaking the words spoken

2012-01-31T18:27:00.001-05:00

If they are authentic,
a prophet of the most high,
they would only speak the word of God.
Speaking the words spoken
the words given to them
being a sounding board, recording
giving the word of God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,250+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Alive with God’s Power – 2

2012-01-31T18:23:00.001-05:00

Christ’s authority in God’s presence
his union, joined with the Father
the Son of God on earth
his personhood, divine, though fully human
The prophets foretold, down to Jesus
speaking a message, powerful
God’s words imparted through them
speaking to the people
to hear God’s holy word

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,250+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ is God

2012-01-31T17:15:00.002-05:00

No question, no doubt, about his authority
his power to speak a new teaching
to cast the demon out.
Christ is God, it is as plain as that
more than any other prophet
able to speak the word of God
because he was the Word made flesh.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,250+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Their lives a vessel

2012-01-31T17:09:00.001-05:00

A metaphor for their calling
something we should aspire to
the way God used the prophets
to fill his people, to offer them his words
their lives a vessel, to share that blessing
God’s words to the people
his light unto the world.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

They mouths as a cup

2012-01-31T17:03:00.001-05:00

The prophets mere vessels
to be filled with the words of God
their mouths like cups
filled with that blessing
the messages for the people
those who had feared his presences
needing their interface
Their lives, their mouths,
the words poured out
just as God had spoken
the words of God given,
giving by them in love.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Their Authority spoken to them

2012-01-31T16:57:00.001-05:00

The prophets empty vessels
open to God
being filled with God’s words
to be spoke to us
Their authority spoken to them
the very word of God
speaking truth to the people
from the mouth of God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

They Spoke God’s Word

2012-01-31T16:52:00.001-05:00

The prophets, from their mouths
speaking the word of God
what he had given for us.
Exactly what God said for them to speak,
otherwise sure death,
the prophets needing to speak
the words that God said.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He is God

2012-01-31T16:46:00.004-05:00

He came to earth,
at a moment in time,
here for a purpose
to share the Word of God.
Yet not in the past tense,
to say Christ was God,
bound by a limit,
the time he was on earth.
Christ is God
from the beginning of time,
the first-born of creation,
the lamb upon the throne.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He was God

2012-01-31T16:42:00.000-05:00

Christ’s authority, his person,
because He was God.
Come here for a purpose,
to share the love of God.

Unbound by convention,
free to speak boldly,
Christ taught them a new teaching
one from the mouth of God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Believing in God’s Word

2012-01-31T16:34:00.002-05:00

Knowing the word is not enough.
We must go further.
We must believe in God’s word,
the source of our witness.

Our charge from heaven
spoken by Christ here,
to share our witness boldly,
throughout the whole world.

We are a message
written by the hand of God,
sent to be shared richly,
a light for the world.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Knowing God’s Word

2012-01-31T14:47:00.001-05:00

The nature of our authority
to go out into the world
knowing God’s word
the spoken word of God.
Speaking life into being
holding us in his hand
sending us the Savior
to heal this tired land.
God’s word still speaking
from this we too can speak
a word, a song, of healing
to share with this earth.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

by the authority

2012-01-31T14:15:00.001-05:00

May we be fruitful,
bold in our action
using the authority given
by the authority over
the land, the world, the garden
to be good stewards
of our gifts, our talents,
serving in the vineyards
the fields of this world.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Years in the Whale

2012-01-31T13:41:00.001-05:00

Maybe Jonah got off easy
only three days in the whale,
for failing to follow God’s call,
going the other way.
Many, perhaps most,
lost, living as prodigals
years in the whale
the belly of the beast.
Lost, wandering,
away from our Father, God
needing a way back to him
to return home again.
This is our call, our duty
when we someone astray
stepping in at those moments,
showing another way.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The time has come”
Mark 1:14-20 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 7:29-31 (NRSV)
Jonah 3:1-5, 10
Call to Worship (Psalm 62:5-7)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Psalm 62:5-12))
Psalm 100:2, Psalm 118:24 (Hymn, “He Has Made Me Glad”)
Exodus 3:5 (Hymn, “Holy Ground”
Hymn, “Onward, Christian Soldiers”
Isaiah 55:12 (Hymn, “The Trees of the Field”)
and sermon, “What time is it”
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
Third Sunday after Epiphany
January 22, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Earning Grace

2012-01-31T12:59:00.001-05:00

Something about his letters,
the choices that he made,
something understandable,
yet puzzling nonetheless.
Paul sought to teach us
more than anyone else
the love of God, forgiveness
grace above all else.
Yet Paul, in his living,
appearing to disbelief
driven, with a purpose,
falling to his knees.
His life a paradox
juxtaposing grace
with a driven sense of calling
as if he had to earn God’s grace.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,240+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

all the authority

2012-01-31T12:17:00.001-05:00

an illusion, a myth,
the idea of a self-made man,
the notion of all this
all the authority
the power only in God
we are but bits of clay
grass of this earth
God has the authority
the power to create
he has given just a bit
and we have blown that.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Death in the Garden

2012-01-31T12:07:00.000-05:00

Not dying a physical death
as if it was poison
yet as when Christ took the cup
putting it to his lips.
Here in the garden
Eve ate of the fruit
giving some to Adam
in this they both died.
Death in the garden
listening to the world.
The snake but an instrument,
ignoring the will of God.
God’s meaning true,
in eating the fruit they died.
All of us who follow,
to the end of the age,
like them placed in bondage,
chains of our making,
needing the grace of God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Serpent questioned God

2012-01-31T11:59:00.002-05:00

The serpent spoke out of turn
leading the people astray
away from relationship with God
something we pay for today.
The serpent questioned God
God’s authority over Eve
telling her she would not die,
words that would deceive
causing us spiritual death
estrangement from God
the source of all that is
the potter, creator, God.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Ignoring God's Authority

2012-01-31T11:49:00.003-05:00

Eve in the garden,
turning from God,
listening to the snake
ignoring God’s authority
casting them both out
Adam complicit
because he should have stopped
listening to God’s words
the voice from on high
God’s authority still present
even when we turn
when we questions his commands
when we listen to the world.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
\

Authority

2012-01-31T11:40:00.002-05:00

Who has authority
from where does it derive
who controls us
power over our lives?

We are our masters
only in our freedom
free to choose
to turn our backs on God.

God is the potter
our lives in our hands
the prophets who spoke for him
a message from God.

Sending Christ Jesus
his only Son
his words, authority
for he was the One.

January 31, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Our rebirth – v3

2012-01-31T10:55:00.003-05:00

Our rebirth, new life
from the holy waters
baptism of fire, of the Spirit
descending upon, in fingers of flame,
walking differently, with him,
our Shepherd, our brother
filled by the Spirit of Christ
Our rebirth
transformation, renewal
filled with gifts of that Spirit
a fire kindled within us
wanting to burn out of control
wanting us to serve joyfully
where God would send us
going with a blessing,
commissioned, sent
out into the world

edited January 31, 2012
(there were 109 page views of “Our rebirth” between 1/11 and 1/31)
January 11, 2012
Worship Theme – “Water and Spirit”
Mark 1:4-11 God’s WORD Translation (GW)
Genesis 1:1-5 Common English Bible (CEB)
Acts 19:1-7 Common English Bible (CEB)
Call to Worship (Psalm 29:1-4 NRSV Bible)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Psalm 29))
Reaffirmation of Baptismal Covenant
hymn, “When Jesus came to Jordan”, UMH #252
Matthew 3:13-17
Luke 3:21-22
Mark 1:9-11
and sermon, “Water and Baptism”
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
First Sunday after Epiphany/Baptism of the Lord Sunday
January 8, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

moving ahead in the dark

2012-01-31T08:37:00.002-05:00

so true, in the telling
a story, a metaphor for life,
moving ahead in the dark
one light to guide us,
the love of God,
the message of Christ
one light to lead us
as we struggle in life
one hope for tomorrow
for a future with God

January 31, 2012
Isaiah 40:28-31 (NIV)
Isaiah 40:21-31
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
January 30, 2012 to February 5, 2012,
“Rediscovering God’s Presence”
by Dion Forsten
scripture and meditation for January 31, 2012
read January 31, 2012
&
Isaiah 40:21-28 (NIV)
Isaiah 40:21-31
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
January 30, 2012 to February 5, 2012,
“Rediscovering God’s Presence”
by Dion Forsten
scripture and meditation for January 30, 2012
read January 30, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He sits enthroned

2012-01-31T08:29:00.002-05:00

God sits enthroned
far above the circle of the earth
the dome, the waters
almighty, presence.
People are like grasshoppers,
like grass of the fields
a breath, an instant
in God do we fear.

January 31, 2012
Isaiah 40:22
Isaiah 40:21-28
Isaiah 40:21-31
Upper Room Disciplines for 2012
http://bookstore.upperroom.org/cart/upperroom/p-17131.htm
January 30, 2012 to February 5, 2012,
“”
by Dion Forsten
scripture and meditation for January 30, 2012
read January 30, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Robed in authority

2012-01-30T19:17:00.002-05:00

May we go out
into your world
robed in authority
in the words that were written
living messages of God.
Sent for a purpose
to spread God’s holy message
a nation, a people,
sent out into the world

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

in the authority given us

2012-01-30T19:12:00.003-05:00

Let us go forth
out of our study, our worship
wearing the authority given us
to speak God’s message
to be a message ourselves
authentic, worthy
may we remember others are watching
as we go out into the world.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ speaks with power

2012-01-30T19:05:00.001-05:00

Through the words of scripture,
the ancient text,
through the Spirit’s leading
providing no rest.

Christ speaks with power
to his sheep, leading us on
not to sleep.

Candles lit, ready to share
a fire burning
none to spare.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ spoke with Power

2012-01-30T18:58:00.003-05:00

His name alone,
The Word Made Flesh,
Messiah, Savior,
all of this as well.
Christ spoke with power,
because that is what he is
the power come to earth
God in the flesh.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He spoke with power

2012-01-30T18:53:00.001-05:00

Christ is God, come to save us
an urgency to his mission,
nothing left to chance.
He spoke with passion, with power
a new teaching, casting out demons.
No time to waste,
the kingdom is at hand.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

who gives us the right

2012-01-30T17:27:00.002-05:00

God, God alone,
he is the one who gives us the right
the power, the authority
to speak, to do
to carry his message
love, to the world
hope in that song
that anthem of hope
the song, the fire within us
lifting us up
Christ, our Savior
he alone

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,230+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

With Thanks

2012-01-30T17:13:00.003-05:00

Entering worship
with a heart grateful
with thanks coming
into your presence
thankful within
my whole heart
searching for you
wanting to start

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Our rebirth – v2

2012-01-30T15:28:00.001-05:00

Our rebirth
from the holy waters
baptism of fire
walking differently, with him,
our Shepherd, our brother
filled by the Spirit of Christ
Our rebirth
transformation
filled with the gifts of that Spirit
a fire kindled within us
wanting to burn out of control
wanting us to serve joyfully
where God would send us
going with a blessing,
commissioned,sent
out into the world

edited January 30, 2012
(there were 89 page views of “Our rebirth” between 1/11 and 1/30)
January 11, 2012
Worship Theme – “Water and Spirit”
Mark 1:4-11 God’s WORD Translation (GW)
Genesis 1:1-5 Common English Bible (CEB)
Acts 19:1-7 Common English Bible (CEB)
Call to Worship (Psalm 29:1-4 NRSV Bible)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Psalm 29))
Reaffirmation of Baptismal Covenant
hymn, “When Jesus came to Jordan”, UMH #252
Matthew 3:13-17
Luke 3:21-22
Mark 1:9-11
and sermon, “Water and Baptism”
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
First Sunday after Epiphany/Baptism of the Lord Sunday
January 8, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Holy is His Name

2012-01-30T14:13:00.001-05:00

They were amazed
by the teaching, the healing,
that Christ could speak like this
with authority, with power.
They marveled,
unbelieving, that he
could cast out demons.

Holy is his name,
the living Son of God
come to save his people,
God’s love come down.
The Word made flesh
the kingdom drawn near.
Come and see, believe and hear.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Alive with God's Power

2012-01-30T14:02:00.001-05:00

His life, his presence
the living Son of God
come to save the earth
to bring us back to Him.
To gather in the children
the wayward, lost sheep
alive with God’s power
in his arms our relief.

Christ was the One
the prophets long foretold
the risen Savior, seated
now on the throne.
He came to save us
to bring us back to God
authority and power
in the living Lamb of God.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

#f

Authority in His Name

2012-01-30T13:55:00.001-05:00

The authority of Jesus,
the power to heal,
to bring us close to God
to rise from our knees,
the authority within him
in his holy name
the Messiah, the Son of God
blessed is his name

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Sermon - "The Question of Authority", by Pastor Ruth Foss, Suncook United Methodist Church, January 29, 2012

2012-01-30T09:03:00.000-05:00

January 29, 2012
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
Worship Theme: The Nature of Authority
Psalm 111:1-3, 10 NRSV Bible
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 NRSV Bible
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 NRSV Bible
Mark 1:21-28 NRSV Bible

“The Question of Authority”

Good morning. . . I love listening to kids talk. . . ok, argue with one another. There is a lot to learn as we “listen in” from the outside. One thing I have heard them say. . . and yes I have actually used this phrase before. . . ”Who died and made you boss. . . ?” or “You’re not the boss of me. . . I don’t have to listen to you!”. . . I know that you must have heard the same type of statements at one point or another in your life. . . and might have even used them yourself. . . It’s all about authority and who has it over us and who do we have it over them. Well this has got me thinking about authority itself. . . who decides who has the authority and why do people misuse it from time to time?

All we have to do these days is pick up the news paper or turn on the television and we hear about people in power. . . some doing good, but we hear mostly about those who abuse their “power of authority.” Society is the one who puts them in authority through elections and such but it is the very same society that they are abusing. . . the same people who put them in the “seat of authority.” But the question of authority has been with us all the way back in the Garden of Eden. The serpent questioned God’s authority over Eve as he told her that God was mistaken and death would not happen if she ate the “forbidden fruit”. . . she was made to feel that God was being unfair to the tenders of the Garden and she decided to ignore God’s authority over her and eat the fruit. . . the serpent was right though, she didn’t die a physical death but a spiritual one that affected all humanity after, I guess the serpent left out that part of his story. . .

Last week we talked about how the time has come. . . the kingdom of God is near. . . nearer than we realize I think. . . we need to be out doing the “Kingdoms Work” in the world. But by whose authority are we empowered to do such a thing. . . who gives us the right to do this. . . who is the one who really has all the authority? My pray is that as we look at the “question of authority” we may be emboldened. . . by the authority over all to be workers in the vineyard.

We have already heard about the authority of the prophet in the Deuteronomy scripture and the authority of the Christian in the 1st Corinthians scripture. . . now let’s look at what the Bible says about Jesus’ authority. I am reading from the Gospel of Mark and the passage is found in chapter 1 verses 21-28. . . I’ll be reading from the NRSV Bible and if you would like to follow along in the pew bible it is found on page 910. (Read Scripture)

Jesus spoke with authority! He was God come down in human form and spoke with the authority of God. . . this was something new and never before did anyone speak in such a way. . .

OK. . . authority. . . let’s look at what makes up authority. . .
1. Kinds of authority- The prophet’s kind was the knowledge of God. God spoke through them and gave them the authority to say what they did. . . they were speaking on god’s behalf. The Christians authority is in knowing God’s word and what it tells us. . . but knowing is only half of the equation, believing in God’s word makes up the other half. And Jesus’ authority was His identity. . . He was God!
2. Characteristics of authority - The prophet was and still is today their obedience to God. They were obedient to what God said to them. They followed exactly what God said for them to say. They didn’t let society tell them what to say. The characteristic of the Christian is they are given liberty. . . freedom that can be seen from all that are round them. And with Jesus. . . well He was the source of authority and it was seen in the way He lived His life. . . He lived a sinless life that only God Himself could do. Now here’s the best part. . .
3. Who has authority – Jesus has the authority because of His deity. . . the unclean spirit knew who He was. . . it knew He was God incarnate. The prophet has the authority through God’s word. They speak directly from God’s mouth to others. . . not just the written word but the actual words of God! And we, as Christians, have the authority because of our knowledge of God. We can share and speak of God because we know His word. . . we study His word. . . we can relay His word to others. . . What an HONOR! We have been given the authority by God. . . we are given the authority to work in the vineyard and help with god’s agenda. . . but it’s not a right. . . it’s a gift and a privilege. . .

Now the question of authority. . . we, as Christians, have the authority from God to speak the truth found in His word. . . we have the authority to follow Jesus’ teachings and teach others a new and better way of life. . . we have the authority, as beloved children, to speak on our Fathers behalf. But authority does come at a cost. As you may see in the workplace there are people who don’t like the people in authority. . . even though they may be nice and all that it is because they have authority they are not liked. There are also others who are in authority that abuse that authority and take advantage of others. What we do with authority is even more important than the authority itself. What we don’t do even though we have the authority is just as important.

Beloved sons and daughters. . . have you embraced the authority that has been given you? Have you trusted in that authority and done “great things for the Kingdom of God”. . . even “little things for the Kingdom of God”. . . remember, there is no such thing a small thing in the kingdom of God, every little bit counts as we all do our little part it adds to the little parts of others making a BIG thing happen? Have you abused your authority in some way? It’s not too late to change your view. . . your vision of authority. With God’s help, may we all use our authority wisely and with compassion as Jesus did. . . may we trust in the authority given us so that we may step out in faith on the waters of society and follow the One in whom we are given all authority and follow His example. . . the example of our Risen Lord Jesus Christ. The Kingdom of God is nearer than we think. . . let us go out in the authority given us and be doers not just hearers of the word.

Amen!

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Alive with God’s Word

2012-01-30T08:57:00.001-05:00

Christ different, great,
than all who had come before
the Messiah, God’s prophet,
come down to earth.

Authority from heaven,
alive with God’s Word
sent to save us
life evermore.

Christ came from heaven
Alive with God’s power,
authority from heaven,
life after life.

Speaking himself,
God’s Word made flesh
come down to save us,
greater than the rest.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ has the Power

2012-01-30T08:22:00.002-05:00

Christ came from heaven
he has the power,
the authority from God
Speaking himself,
the Word made flesh
come down to save us,
greater than the rest.

January 30, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,220+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The prophet’s authority

2012-01-29T20:55:00.001-05:00

We know from the telling,
the stories in the bible,
the power of their witness,
speaking for the potter,
speaking words given
their authority in their knowledge
in the words of God
given to them to convey,
to share with us a message
to save us someday.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

with the authority of God

2012-01-29T20:48:00.001-05:00

Because of who he is,
the living Son of God,
Christ’s teaching different
speaking with power,
the authority of God
words of love spoken
to them in that hour.
Reverberating through the years
ripples through the ages
in this we know God
the author of the pages

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Shriek of the Demon

2012-01-29T20:31:00.001-05:00

The stillness of the synagogue
a place of prayer, of teaching,
shattered by the stirrings,
the fit of the man with demons.
What must they have seen
what had they truly heard
the pain of the spirit
confronted by Jesus,
the One, the Son,
the living lamb of God
with power, authority
calling the demon out.
The shriek of the demon
convulsing this poor neighbor
what must the people have thought
when Christ cast the demon out?

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Jesus’ Authority is His Identity

2012-01-29T20:05:00.002-05:00

The source of his power
the reason he was different,
more than any prophet,
the Messiah, the Christ.
Jesus’ authority,
the source of his wisdom,
his abilities to heal the sick,
his power over life.
All of this was grounded,
in his identity, his person
Jesus is the Christ
the living Son of God.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

God spoke through them

2012-01-29T19:54:00.002-05:00

Not predicting a future,
not soothsayers, sages,
the prophets of the people
served God’s purpose;
God spoke through them
servants of his purpose
sharing with the people
the living words of God.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

He was the source of authority

2012-01-29T19:35:00.000-05:00

God here with us,
the Messiah, the Christ,
Jesus more than a prophet
He is our God.
He was the source of authority,
authentic power.
He came to save
in this troubled hour.
Amazing the people,
casting the demons out,
God here with us,
the Messiah, the Christ.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Jesus spoke with authority

2012-01-29T17:51:00.001-05:00

Jesus spoke with authority,
more than the rabbis, the prophets
even more than Moses,
the first-born of creation,
God everlasting, the Messiah, the Savior
God’s own Son, come from heaven
to show us his love.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

sending your Son Jesus

2012-01-29T17:11:00.001-05:00

After the prophets,
beginning with Moses,
God sent his Son, Jesus
to this earth.
His mission here,
to set us free, to open our eyes,
that we may believe.
We are the children
the descendants of these people
come in our time
to set the captives free
by sharing our witness
the testimony of Jesus
to walk ever
in God’s unending light
we are the ones
who others look to
to see what it means
to claim the name Christian,
watching if we are faithful
if we are righteous
if our words match our deeds

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

to open our eyes

2012-01-29T17:05:00.000-05:00

Why God sent Jesus
not just another prophet
our eyes blind, unwilling to see
Christ came to heal us
to open our eyes
to cast out the demons
healing us of our blindness
giving us eyes to see
the majesty of our creator
how he wants to hold us near
the kingdom come, near to the earth
God sent Jesus, to give us new birth

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,210+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

They feared God

2012-01-29T16:45:00.001-05:00

The Israeli people were
freed from bondage
escaping from Egypt
by the hand of God
walking in the desert
under the cloud by day
the fire by night
yet they feared God
not wanting to see his light
his power, his might
only Moses, the prophet
the prophets who would follow
they alone, speaking God’s message
aglow with God’s presence
they alone guiding
God’s people, timid

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

too much for your people

2012-01-29T16:30:00.001-05:00

the sheep, your people,
lost in the desert,
released from bondage,
yet failing to believe.
needing a shepherd, a guide,
a prophet speaking to them
your presence, your light
too much for your people.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

your awesome presence

2012-01-29T16:25:00.001-05:00

Your face, your light,
your awesome presence, oh God
too much for the people
your power over us.
Knowing our lowliness
afraid to come before you.
Needing a prophet,
an intermediary,
someone to come before you
to share your word
your guidance with us.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

nearer than we realize

2012-01-29T15:35:00.001-05:00

Christ was foretold,
the prophet, the Messiah,
come to save the people
the many people of God.
He was to come,
the kingdom to draw near.
The kingdom is near,
nearer than we realize.
We must be about the work,
the mission for our lives.
God gives us the power,
the authority we need,
sending us out to serve
if we only will believe.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

we are empowered

2012-01-29T15:27:00.000-05:00

God gives us authority,
we are empowered,
to serve within
the kingdom work.
We are given
what is needed,
the authority, the words
the tools for the work.

January 29, 2012
Worship Theme – “The Nature of Authority”
Mark 1:21-28 (NRSV)
1 Corinthians 8:1-14 (NRSV)
Deuteronomy 18:15-20 (NRSV)
Call to Worship (Psalm 111:1-3, 10)(NRSV)
Unison Prayer
Prayer of Dedication (GBOD (Mark 1:21-28))
and sermon, “The question of Authority”
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
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
January 29, 2012

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 15,200+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.