May Showers

We needed the break
the change back from the heat
too soon for the eighties
scorched and hot
cloudbursts, sheets of rain
giving way to slow steady
soothing drops
washing the pollen, the grit,
the heat
from the leaves,
from the yard,
the air
flowers growing,
rising up
in the May showers

May 11, 2007 11:15

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Coming Thunder - revised

First storm of the year
thickening sky, heavy air
darkening below the blue
weight on the limbs
the leaves turned
again the stagnant stillness
waiting for the thunder,
the cracks, the sizzle
steam on the hot pavement
reminders of last year
not so long after the cold,
the snow, the ice
the winter grip
Now it is summer
while yet spring
Thunder
before the plantings
While the crocus and lilacs bloom

May 10, 2007 14:31


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Coming Thunder

First storm of the year
thickening sky, heavy air
darkening below the blue
weight on the limbs
the leaves turned
again the stagnant stillness
waiting for the thunder,
the cracks, the sizzle
steam on the hot pavement
reminders of last year
not so long after the cold,
the snow, the ice
the winter grip
Now it is summer
while yet spring
Thunder
before the plantings

May 10, 2007 14:29

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Yellow Dust

A sheen of yellow
on the glass
the hood, the roof, the ground
oak tree above, golden below
heavy flour of dust
wipers push aside,
puff into the sky
to rain again
momentary confection
seasonal sugar
Yellow dust

May 10, 2007 16:24


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Second-grade Cell

A flip of the phone,
just out the doors,
five feet outside,
check for messages,
invitations, calls
while he was busy
busy in the schoolhouse
the second grade wheeler
dealer, popular
with his black
second-grade cell

May 10, 2007 16:19



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Fern Emerging

Waking, stretching
casting off sleep,
cocoon of its slumber
awakening to the dawn
of spring, new life
in the fresh air
breathing in
the newness of the spring day
opening its wings
to catch the sun, the breeze
take its rightful place
on the forest floor
a bit of beauty
rising from the leave litter
bright and green
majestic in its own way
for its time on the stage

May 20, 2007 17:31
Livingston Park,
Manchester, NH May 4, 2007

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In the Heart of the Tulip

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Daffodil and Tulip

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Blue Hyacinth, Green Leaves

Like mighty aloe vera leaves
protecting the cluster of blue
within their protective quills
the green leaves
wrap 'round the blue hyacinth
waiting for the moment to pull back
show its beauty unencumbered
out in the open sunlight

June 9, 2007 21:01




All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Pansies

Fragrance to match
pallets of colors
thrown together
on the mouse ears
of the petals
bright smells
intoxicating
in their simplicity
smile in the inhaling
the pure scents
pansies for the garden
inside until the soil
is ready for the planting

May 9, 2007 20:40

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

They had Shades

The three men of the family
poised to cross the street
ready to drop off the big brother
at first grade, at the school
but they waited
basking in the warm May sun
on the sunny side of the crossing
drinking in the heat of the morning
on a seasonal day
wearing Nascar and Red Sox
and shades, dad, older brother
and baby brother too
A picture for the billboards
They had shades
and knew it

May 9, 2007 20:35


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Fragrant Lilac

That sweet subtle
wonderful smell
of spring, of renewal,
of beauty,
in the tiny flowers, the bunches
bundles of pristine blooms
purple precious flowering
of the season
a magical bouquet
fleeting in its fragility
filling the room
with its scent

May 9, 2007 20:28

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Ruth - Summa Cum Laude

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Fuzzy Fiddles

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Captured Blossoms

A clutch of apple blossoms
nestled in the drinking glass
a bit of beauty on
the kitchen windowsill
Sharing the rays of sunlight
with other knick-knacks
clutter, catchalls
Reminder of the spring
emerging out beyond the pane
ready for us to join it

May 20, 2007 17:40


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Emerging Fern

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Stoic Pine

Livingston Park, Manchester, NH

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Frozen Bud

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Red

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Tongues of Yellow

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Clematis on a Rusty Fence

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Bloom of Clover - 073106

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Dragonfly closeups - 073106

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Shanequa - Nursery Rhyme Idol Star - April 2007

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Shanequa - 7/3/06

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Frame Filled with Purple

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Up through the mulch

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Crocus without the flash

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Her Achievement

For some, a piece of paper
a momentary achievement
for her, a different moment,
importance to the day.
A wall, a barrier, a breaking through
a curtain torn, ripped away
A former existence, a sense of self
reframed in the completion
the fulfillment of a step, a doorway
A threshold crossed, with success
Excelling in the work, growing
Growing in the process
preparing for another journey
a new pathway, a call
for her life
Completing one task,
ready for the next one
just around the corner


April 27, 2007 20:14


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In the Jungle

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Dorcas Rising

Like Lazarus before her
she rose at
the command of the shepherd
But this time, it was
the new leader,
the follower now in power
no longer timid,
infused with the spirit
Tabitha, Dorcas, Gazelle
elegant, leaping, rising
a worthy lamb, lost sheep
the shepherd leaving the flock
to care for the one
the one in need
lost to death
But death did not hold them
and they rose
at the voice of the shepherd
they arose

April 27, 2007 12:35
Acts 9:36-43
John 11:1-45

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Purple Crocuses in the light of the flash

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Spring Rain Song

He was hidden in the nascent
emerging buds of the
lilac branches, singing his
ornate, urgent, compelling song
to the back of the hall
to the ladies, to the heavens
letting the world hear his
beautiful, erudite trill
shared in joy,
piercing the momentary gloom
of the gentle spring rain

April 25, 2007 20:35

A Spring Rain Song

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2007/04/spring-rain-song.html

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 37,690+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Hydroponic

Living fibers
hairs and legs
tendrils, radiating outward
downward to the depths
like albino house centipedes
bursting for attention
in the shafts of glorious
wondrous Easter day light
calling the eye of the attentive
to the beautiful of the roots
suspended in the glass
longing for recognition
for revelation
in the living room

April 25, 2007 19:19

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Purple Passion

Purple Passion

Royal, rich, deep purple
brilliant luminous petals
drink the pulse of light
from the fleeting flash
burn the fragrant color
into the cell, cut through
the fog, radiant hue
seal a moment with your power
capture the instant
of purple passion

April 24, 2007 15:47

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Sundrenched Yellow

Crocus Blooms

Purple Crocuses

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Ultra-closeup

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Tub of Pansies

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Blue Hyacinth

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Easter Friends

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Spring bouquet

An earthen vase
held a bouquet
simple crocuses
at the street corner
in the downtown
of the city, around
the corner, down the block
on the way to school
a bit of color
shining through
the urban tableau
reminding us of beauty
amidst the clutter
of daily life

May 20, 2007 17:58

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Easter Sunshine

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

7 Years of Poetry

Today marks 7 years since I read my first poem at the Barrington, NH School Board reading. It has been quite a journey since then, with 1,233 poems posted here now (760 of them written in the last year). I hope you like what you see on these pages.

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Prayer in the Face of a Rampage Shooting

On the General Board of Discipleship's Worship Resources website was a wonderful Prayer for these days of grief after the shooting at Virginia Tech (and today's anniversary of the Columbine tragedy.

The link to the prayer, "A Prayer in the Face of a Rampage Shooting" by The Reverend Taylor Burton-Edwards is at http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=31648. How true are these words. How it important is it for us to all be able to say them and believe them, for us to be healed.


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Collect our Tears

In the face of the tragedy of the shootings at Virginia Tech this week, we are all trying to find answers and hope. I found a wonderful poem, "Collect our Tears", tonight that the author has graciously allowed me to link to.

Please check out this wonderful poem by Safiyah Fosua, who is the Director of Invitational Preaching Ministries at the General Board of Discipleship in Nashville, Tennessee.

http://www.gbod.org/worship/default.asp?act=reader&item_id=31656


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Responsive

The familiar response
brought home from the sanctuary
into their room, with the day over
and the light down low
“The word of God for the people of God;
Thanks be to God.”
How wonderful hearing their voices
in unison, in response to the reading
the intoning of the familiar words
I, the leader for the people
at the end of the bedtime story
the lesson tonight
before their slumber


April 18, 2007 21:08
after reading the conversion of Saul,
Acts 22:6-11, becoming Paul


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Refined in the Fire

Dipped precious metals
held in the flame, glowing hot
little imperfections, impurities
wisps of smoke, bleed away
pure essence remaining
after we are refined in fire

April 18, 2007 20:44
Malachi 3:1-3


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,380+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Lessons in the Adversity

We gain more, learn,
grow, it seems,
through the grist of adversity
the churning stomach,
the flushed cheeks,
wet furrowed brow
taking in the information
the struggle
reaching closure, fruition
learning, by the doing
the action against the tide
standing strong as we must
not bowing under the weight
to come out
on the other side
diploma in hand

April 18, 2007 20:41


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Balance Beam

Scampering on the bar
the rail at the top of the chain-link fence
how agile seemed the runner
the beam walker
escaping the scary predator (me)
jumping over the wire
so human the hands
of the gray squirrel
needing a manicure
and a serious depilatory,
perhaps, but so much like ours
Smooth wet pipe
wound with the chains
a perfect escape route
for the ballet dancer,
the gymnast
the survivor

April 18, 2007 20:21

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,730+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Backing Up

It happened a few times this morning
trying to tell the whole story, or more of it anyway
eager ears, without a lot of context, trying to understand
trying to get the deeper meaning, the fuller flavor
of the story of doubting Thomas,
or of the disciples emboldened, defying the will
of the religious authorities, teaching in the Temple
when it was prohibited, when before they never,
no never would have dared to rebel, not on their own
timid followers, empowered to preach, to share
the gospel with the people.
Needing to back up, into scripture, into His life,
their journey, their blindness, their fear
to truly appreciate the lesson for us
when things are unseen or when times are tough
to persevere and believe


April 15, 2007 18:53
John 20:19-31 (the story of doubting Thomas) &
Acts 5:27-32 (a story of the Peter and the other disciples
preaching in the Temple after being arrested)
for our Middle High Sunday School class
Wesley United Methodist Church, Concord, NH


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Meek Gained Mettle

Timid, blind, fearful men
rise and speak with power,
with courage, with resolve,
defy the powerful, the authority,
the council, to speak truth
to raise His banner, His teachings
in the Temple, and in the hearts
of the people, moving beyond their loss
their pain at the taking of His life
speaking with power
infused with the Spirit
With God’s words
in Jesus’ name.

April 15, 2007 15:09
Acts 5:27-32


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Touching His Wounds

Fingers reach out
touch the holes,
the scars, the deep
gaping spear wound
feel where the nails
pierced his hands,
where the cruel knife
confirmed his death
in order to believe
Needing to feel the pain
He bore, for him, for us
needing physical,
painful truth
to believe
How many of us
would like that chance,
to bolster, buttress,
reinforce our quaking faith
to touch the body of Christ
But we cannot, at least not now
in this life
How hard it is then, to believe
having only His words,
His example, their works
to build on, to hold fast to
to believe ourselves
in hope and in faith
following the risen Lord
wherever He leads

April 15, 2007 15:03
John 20:19-31

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

The Essence of Faith

His is the abject lesson,
the proof in the seeing,
the touching, the questioning
the believing by his eyes,
his senses, his experience

We must go another way,
follow the example, the words,
the testimony, those witnesses long ago
believe because we believe
hold fast to hope, the truths
in the proclamation, the Good News
believing without seeing,
without touching, without
knowing the physical savior
Knowing Him in our hearts
instead, alone, a definition of faith

April 15, 2007 14:57
John 20:19-31

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Cold Rain, Wet Snow

A cold gray afternoon
cocooned indoors,
watching the scene change
outside, in the colors,
the feel, the mood
morphing day,
cold rain, wet snow
catching on the newborn grass
exposed shoots, tongues of leaves
tulips, crocuses, hyacinth,
daffodils, new birth, new promise
encased once more,
in winter’s grip
if only for a few moments
before the inevitable
warming of spring
in a few days time
melts the remnants
slush, puddle, nourishment
flower

April 15, 2007 14:46


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Good Day for a Jog

“Dad, it’s a good day for a jog”
or so I think she said, laughing
over her shoulder, heading down
the lane, the alley,
to the main road, to the corner
to the school
“Beat Ya!”
Oh it was a close race,
with her little legs and mine
matching strides to pick up
her buddy, her older sister
But no jog home, no big sissy
had penny loafers (or a near equivalent)
“Dad, I’ll run out of them,” she said
Probably so. No matter;
easier to hold her little hand
when we aren’t running home
But it Was a good day for a jog
and better still
for spending time with them
easy on a busy day

April 11, 2007 15:41


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Risen Friend

The house of
a risen friend
another lesson
to teach
to the disciples
before the passion
the final chapter
the abandonment
the trial, the death
the rising
the dawn of boldness
at Pentecost
One more lesson
on the nature
the true essence
of the Christ
God in the flesh
worthy of
extravagant
anointing


March 28, 2007, April 10, 2007 20:50
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Lazarus

He was a friend,
a friend who would understand
being put in the ground
to make a point
Or at least,
he was a friend
without his own publicist
to tell of abandonment,
being raised from the dead
for effect
That’s a friend.



March 28, 2007, April 10, 2007 19:53
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8 & John 11:1-44, especially 28-44

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Wafers of Ice

Footprints in the frozen mud
crowns of the craters
perching between the peaks
grabbing the tops of the hollow cups
wafers of ice
frost really
like a frozen host
wafers of ice
sacrificed
to a child’s footfall
crushed in a whisper of time
a moment of pressure
caving in
and falling away
lost

April 10, 2007 16:00


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Such a Cup

Never in all the world
has anyone lifted
such as cup as this
put it to his lips
drunk the dark liquid,
poison of our sin
knowing the fate
the journey
the pain
of the punishment
the cross
Bearing all
the bitter bile
more venomous
than hemlock
taken into his own hands
and drunk down
submitting his will
as we never can
to save us


April 8, 2007 and April 9, 2007 13:02
Luke 22:42 and John 18:11b,
see also Matthew 26:39 and Mark 14:36

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Family Well-Blessed

We came again,
to that small home in Bethany
home to two sisters
and a now risen brother
Three believers, friends
of the Christ, the savior
God made flesh
at the beginning of his Passion
Three richly blessed friends
who teach us lessons
as they were taught,
of the essential things,
of His nature,
of belief itself
the value of things
Anointed now
by the faithful sister
the one who sat and listened
whose tears
led Him to cry
Anointing his feet
with fragrant oils
wiping them with her hair
extravagant love
from a woman, a family
well-blessed



March 28, 2007, April 7, 2007 16:20
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8
and Luke 10:38-42, and John 11:1-44


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

We carried the Christ

A Maundy Thursday,
dressed in black
feeling more acutely perhaps
meaning in the stripping,
the solemn steps
darkening the sanctuary,
after the meal,
the washing of the feet
leaving in silence
carrying the Christ
from the Garden
to the cross

April 7, 2007 15:59

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Waiting for the Morning

(Thursday)
A stark simple meal
washing our feet
stripping the church
carrying out the Christ
on the cross

(Friday)
Another day,
in the church
rich meaning
the words of the Passion
in the Gospel
a dead savior
carried out,
wrapped, placed in the tomb

(Saturday)
Holy Saturday
prepared oils, spices
to anoint His still body
We too, waiting
expectantly, for the morning


April 7, 2007 15:34

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Providential Provision

How unlikely our journey
since my unemployment
almost two and a half years ago
we continue to be amazed, awed,
by the provision of the Lord
the bounty, the daily bread
that is there, enough for the day
excess spoiling, like the manna
in the desert, needing to turn
to rely on God for the provision
the meeting of our needs
in unexpected ways

April 4, 2007 20:16
Isaiah 41:17-20
Psalm 23
Exodus 16:10-15

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 26,260+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Thinking of Us First

God provided
in the most mysterious way
when a car died
and a man gave us a gift
He was a friend indeed
giving us his car
while he was
in the Emergency Room
An unexpected, extraordinary
answer to prayer


April 4, 2007 20:08
Isaiah 41:17-20

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Extravagant Love

Of Man, of Woman
of the King
We see the prodigal son,
the fatted calf
we see the fragrant oil
washing of his feet,
anointing his head,
the washing with tears,
wiping with her hair
uncommon, extravagant gifts
poured out in love
Lessons before the sacrifice
of the lamb
that Passover
Long ago



March 28, 2007 and April 4, 2007 19:56
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8 & Luke 15:11-32
See also Mark 14:3-9 and Matthew 26:6-13


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Anointing Oil

Anointing his head,
his feet, oil for royalty
for burial
So much meaning
in the layers, the differences
the telling of the story
of the extravagant love,
the anointing of the king
at the dinner party,
the spilling, pouring out
of the precious oil
a worthy gift
for the king



March 28, 2007
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8
See also Mark 14:3-9 and Matthew 26:6-13


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Year’s Wages

How much could the split oil have bought
how many lives would it have touched
how wasteful it must have seemed
to those who didn’t truly understand
those misguided, unseeing disciples
Perfume, from far away lands, strong smelling
pungent balm, spilled on the Master’s feet
by Mary, in the house with Martha
and the risen Lazarus, how out of character
how surprising His answer, his affirming
of her rash action, in His knowing of this being his time
He was being prepared, readied, for his final journey,
to the garden, the courts, the skull, the cross, the grave
Before the Easter ‘morn, still to distant to comprehend
How much it could have bought,
how great a price He paid
after the oil was spilled,
wiped by her tears, her hair
What is the cost of a year’s wage
when compared to His gift


March 28, 2007, April 4, 2007 19:32
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Fragrant Oil

Fragrant oil,
filled the room,
at its pouring
spilling out,
expensive and rare,
falling on the feet
the dusty feet,
of the king,
anointing tired
walking feet
traveling feet
of the messenger
the Savior
Poured out in love,
in caring, in prescience
by Mary, the disciple too
Soothing the feet
of the healer, the Son
before the final march
the plodding climb
to Golgotha,
the skull,
the cross

March 28, 2007, April 4, 2007 19:23
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,330+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Palms on the Ground

Palms in their hands
waving in the hot air
sights and sounds,
expectation, excitement
“Here he comes!”
the healer, the prophet,
the Messiah, a king
for the poor, for the people
triumphal entry
into the Holy City
a rain of cloaks, of robes
of palms
falling under his feet
carpeting the dusty road
cushioning the steps
of the royal parade

April 2, 2007 11:00
Luke 19:29-40

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 27,390+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Sticky Hair

“Oh, gross!”
A chorus of groans
at the thought
of her sticky hair
in a world
without indoor plumbing
or hot water
regular bathing
teens hearing the message
at their level,
focusing first and foremost
on her sticky hair


March 28, 2007, April 2, 2007 9:50
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
and the discussion in our Middle High
Sunday School class
John 12:1-8


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Crash Cart

My eyes widened
in opening the box
Oh it was a meat lover’s pizza
Oh yes it was
visible cholesterol
layer on layer, taste on taste
dripping
Filling from the first bite
a small that would be
five meals for me and the girls
Yummy bad cholesterol



April 2, 2007 10:02

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 26,060+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Mary, Mary

Such a gift, such cost
Spending, saving
expensive oil
special gift
burial oils, precious oils
Pour them out
at the Master’s feet
in love, awareness
of the teacher’s journey
foretelling the days ahead
the cross, the cave
Fragrant oil, anointing
the servant king
the Messiah, while he lived

March 28, 2007, April 2, 2007 10:44
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Oh Martha

Too busy to hear
to believe, to sit
to know, understand
the Master

Busy being perfect
the Proverbs 31 woman
Getting form right
all substance amiss

Metaphor for the law, the leaders
the people bent on earning
when grace is the means
and always was

Healing even from death
Stop Martha, slow down
hear the message
and believe

March 28, 2007, April 2, 2007 10:53
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Foot Washing

No last supper,
no holy meal,
a foot washing,
instead
servanthood to the last
washing their feet
as a slave,
a servant
to them
he who would be king
who rode the donkey
who offered all
for all of us

April 4, 2007 13:14

Foot Washing

http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2007/04/foot-washing.html

John 13:1-15

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 37,120+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Her Hair

Her hair
caressed, massaged
washed his feet
anointing oil, spread
by her soft hair,
washed with her tears,
outpouring of love
of deep feeling,
maybe understanding,
of the path he was on
the road to the cross
for our sins, her doubt
washing his feet,
preparing him
for his death
boundless love
poured out


March 28, 2007 and April 1, 2007 21:50
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A True Samaritan

He had a stroke,
we had no car.
He told his wife
to give us the keys,
while he was in the
emergency room.
Such was the gift
we received this month
from a neighbor,
a Samaritan
next door.
How blessed we are
when we let
God provide
in unexpected ways.

April 1, 2007 21:45
Isaiah 41:17-20


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Peter was Peter

A name, oh what a name
his name to carry, into the world
into the sanctuary, to the pulpit

Is that a metaphor,
maybe a parable
a simile, a
surely an allegory

A metaphor of a servant
a leader who wasn’t always ready
but lead he did, after Pentecost,
believing in the message, the man
the savior he knew

How lucky to share that name,
to put on the mantle, the honor
the name of the rock,
the start of the rest
the rest of the story
after the son rose
a week from now

From glorious entry
into the holy city
to death and resurrection
rising to glory
for us all

To be witness, proclaimer
progenitor, namesake
minister, preacher
disciple and apostle
Yes, Peter was Peter
and we are lucky for it

April 1, 2007 21:33
In the children’s play at church today,
Palm Sunday, our lead pastor,
the Reverend Peter Hey,
played Peter
Luke 19:28-40

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

A Cross of Palm

a living frond
folded, bend, broken
after the parade of celebration
marking the stand and end
of the Holy Week

Made by her hands
given into mine
Held now in prayer
between the enfolded
fingers of my hand

A supple living cross
which she made for me
reminding us how soon
praise and welcome
became pain and death
on the rugged cross

April 1, 2007 20:01
Luke 19:28-40

All of my poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,580+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Evangelism 101: It just takes one person.

This morning, I heard a very simple message, from the chair of our Evangelism Commission, on how we could each help grow the church, in a way that seems very attainable and simple. It just takes one person.

Who is the one person is that you might bring to Christianity, and into a deeper relationship with God. Think of a friend, or a relative, or a co-worker, or maybe a neighbor.

We who are here in church today have come to be Christians through several different ways, through different upbringings, through different Sunday school teachers; we each have different ideas. We’ve all come to know God at different stages / times in our lives. This is what creates the body of Christ, the arms, the legs, the ears, the voice.

What we all have in common, though, is that we all have had teachers: Maybe they were friends, or parents/grandparents, or a co-worker, or a neighbor.

We were taught: how to find peace in our lives, how to be content, who God is, who Jesus is; what churches do; How to care for others, how to console, How to greet the man on the street, how to pray; how to gain strength through praying. We learned what is meaningful to God.

And now we have become the teachers, the ministers.

It is our Baptismal and confirmation promise to spread this Good News as it was taught to us.

It is a gift. A life changing gift. A gift to be proud of.

We need to teach the public what main-stream Christianity is about. We must teach them what does go on inside these walls. And what we do outside these walls.

All it will take for us to double our membership here at Wesley is for each of us to bring just one person to this church this year. 250 active members would become 500. In 2 years, 1,000. 3 years, 2,000.

Gandhi once said, “We must become the change we want in the world.” Let us become that change.

Think of whom you can bring to Easter Service next week, or to a church function, to the plant sale, to the July 4th celebration, to our softball games, to Wanakee!

We need to be teaching Christianity to those who are unchurched, to those who have never been to Sunday school, those who don’t know what to expect inside this sanctuary. Those who don’t know the Lord’s Prayer or the Sermon on the Mount.

We are those ministers, those teachers.

Think of someone you can help.
Continue to pray for that person.
Let God guide you.

Amen!


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Anointing Herself

Joining herself with Him
in her act of love
for Him, her giving
in anointing his feet
joining as servant
washing His feet
as he would do, for them
on his last night
sharing love, servanthood
with the king, at his feet
always his disciple, his servant
anointing herself too,
in the washing of his feet
with her hair, caressing him
in a follicle towel, submitting herself
at his feet, in love
anointing, dead to the world
rising in victory
getting it right,
to serve him


March 28, 2007 9:38
Based on the sermon,
“Extravagant Love” by
the Reverend Lori Eldredge,
Wesley United Methodist Church,
Concord, NH on March 25, 2007
John 12:1-8, John 13:3-17


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In the Fall

Oh she can’t wait,
sitting so good, so quietly
but oh so expectantly
in the hallway, waiting for her turn
to apply for kindergarten
where she will be going in the fall
not next year, not today, not too soon
but, no, she is going “in the fall”
precise understanding, or at least a bit far off
her turn in the school with her big sister
hoping to follow in her footsteps
play in the same room, same teacher
longing to be big, but holding mom so close
waiting in the hallway to register
for her class to begin, in the fall

March 27, 2007 10:57


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

It was the Leprechauns

Perfect pitch, cadence,
absolute astonishment, urgent
forthright utterance
from the mouth of the imp

A quick realization
by mom, jaw dropped,
that her hands were Kelly green
and it wouldn’t wash out
at least not right away.
Shanequa!

“No mommy, I didn’t do it;
it was the leprechauns!!”

And so it was, those rascals
who made her hands green
(and anything she touched
while they were yet wet)


March 24, 2007 17:45
(based on Shanequa’s hands
on March 16, 2007)


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

One more of the Red Tailed Hawk

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Lichen and Moss - 3/23/07

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Chalk Art - 3/23/07

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,320+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.