A prophetic voice
a witness, to the light, to the coming
known before he was born
the coming of the Messiah
a voice, crying out, at the top of his lungs
repent, turn from your ways,
prepare the way of the Lord
his time is come, he is here already
the prophesy to be fulfilled
while we yet live
Christ is here, he is come
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Saturday, December 13, 2008
He is Already Here
His answer, the prophetic, the voice
calling out in the wilderness
He is already here, among you,
living, the one who is to come,
already here, in this place
living with us, in this generation
growing, a man, God with us
already here, to bring his message
in a time known to God
already here, to bring us salvation
Repent, for the days of the Lord
are coming soon
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
calling out in the wilderness
He is already here, among you,
living, the one who is to come,
already here, in this place
living with us, in this generation
growing, a man, God with us
already here, to bring his message
in a time known to God
already here, to bring us salvation
Repent, for the days of the Lord
are coming soon
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
He is Among You
Already here, among them,
living, growing, becoming a man, ready
ready to begin his ministry, he coming
foretold, heralded, one crying in the wilderness
coming to save his people, to save the whole world
living then, an infant, the babe, a child, the man
the son, growing, soon
the word, the light,
come into the world
Here among you
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
living, growing, becoming a man, ready
ready to begin his ministry, he coming
foretold, heralded, one crying in the wilderness
coming to save his people, to save the whole world
living then, an infant, the babe, a child, the man
the son, growing, soon
the word, the light,
come into the world
Here among you
December 13, 2008
John 1:19-28
John 1:23
Isaiah 40:1-11
Isaiah 40:3-5
Isaiah 40:3
Omnipotent, Vulnerable
The omnipotent, vulnerable
divine, incarnate
creator, clay
eternal, infant
the father, a son
Prince of Peace, the humble lamb
the king, a servant
Come to earth, heaven bound
the babe in the manger
He will return, oh so differently
December 12 and 13, 2008
John 1:1-5
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2008/12/omnipotent-vulnerable.html
divine, incarnate
creator, clay
eternal, infant
the father, a son
Prince of Peace, the humble lamb
the king, a servant
Come to earth, heaven bound
the babe in the manger
He will return, oh so differently
December 12 and 13, 2008
John 1:1-5
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2008/12/omnipotent-vulnerable.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. All rights reserved.
Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 30,890+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Return to Bethlehem
We must return, to Nazareth, to Bethlehem
to the river, the Jordan
to the time of the Christ, with us
before his birth, hopeful, waiting
wondering when the Messiah will come
when the prophecy of old will be fulfilled
Each year, Adventide
journeying with Mary, with Joseph
following His star, traveling far
leaving our fields, listening to the angels
Returning to Bethlehem
to fall to our knees
at his manger bed
December 12 and 13, 2008
to the river, the Jordan
to the time of the Christ, with us
before his birth, hopeful, waiting
wondering when the Messiah will come
when the prophecy of old will be fulfilled
Each year, Adventide
journeying with Mary, with Joseph
following His star, traveling far
leaving our fields, listening to the angels
Returning to Bethlehem
to fall to our knees
at his manger bed
December 12 and 13, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Testify to the Light
Testify to the light, the light of God
the father, the light of Christ
the son, the light of the Spirit
holy, living, growing,
within each believer
Testify to its warmth,
to its healing, to the love
glowing within the light
testify to the repentance
being ready, awake
for the coming of the light
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
the father, the light of Christ
the son, the light of the Spirit
holy, living, growing,
within each believer
Testify to its warmth,
to its healing, to the love
glowing within the light
testify to the repentance
being ready, awake
for the coming of the light
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
Witness to Light
We, like John,
standing in the wilderness
up to our waist in water
weighed down with the world
Like him, witness to Light
to the light of Christ, that wondrous gift
the saving grace of our risen Lord
be like him,
witness to the unseen light
the living light,
dancing in the hearts of the saints
a light to change the world
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
standing in the wilderness
up to our waist in water
weighed down with the world
Like him, witness to Light
to the light of Christ, that wondrous gift
the saving grace of our risen Lord
be like him,
witness to the unseen light
the living light,
dancing in the hearts of the saints
a light to change the world
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
Witness of unseen light
He was a witness, to the light,
coming into the world, crying out
a witness, testifying, preaching, exhorting,
calling all to repent, to turn from their sin
to prepare the way, for the Messiah
a witness of unseen light
heralding a day soon to come
his ministry begun
wading into the wilderness
falling into the water
raised to anointing
descended on by the dove
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
coming into the world, crying out
a witness, testifying, preaching, exhorting,
calling all to repent, to turn from their sin
to prepare the way, for the Messiah
a witness of unseen light
heralding a day soon to come
his ministry begun
wading into the wilderness
falling into the water
raised to anointing
descended on by the dove
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
10,000 poems
With the postings today, there are now 10,000 copies of my 3,350+ poems on the four sites I post to, almost daily. I thank God for this gift and for those who have come to my sites.
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Illumined in the womb
Before he was born,
before the Messiah
illumined in the womb,
filled by the Holy Spirit
a prophet born
Proclaim the Savior
into the world
baptizing in his name
with water to purify
repentance to offer
making the way straight
humbling the people
washing away they sins
opening their hearts
bringing his light
into the darkness
into the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
before the Messiah
illumined in the womb,
filled by the Holy Spirit
a prophet born
Proclaim the Savior
into the world
baptizing in his name
with water to purify
repentance to offer
making the way straight
humbling the people
washing away they sins
opening their hearts
bringing his light
into the darkness
into the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
His voice shining
His voice, rising, calling in the wilderness
preparing the way, of the coming Lord
his voice shining, bringing the light
into the world
in the river, in the outskirts
the people coming to him
Witnessing to Christ
before he was touched by dove
His voice, up on the lamp stand
shining light into the world
into the darkness
in the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
preparing the way, of the coming Lord
his voice shining, bringing the light
into the world
in the river, in the outskirts
the people coming to him
Witnessing to Christ
before he was touched by dove
His voice, up on the lamp stand
shining light into the world
into the darkness
in the wilderness
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
Shining in wilderness
He was shining in the wilderness
his voice, his message, bringing, heralding
calling forth, calling, testifying to the light
announcing the way, of the coming Lord
the Messiah, the one told of old
the Christ, coming into the world
repent, change your ways
He is coming soon
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
his voice, his message, bringing, heralding
calling forth, calling, testifying to the light
announcing the way, of the coming Lord
the Messiah, the one told of old
the Christ, coming into the world
repent, change your ways
He is coming soon
December 10, 2008
John 1:6-8
A Community Prayer
The words, our father, forgive us,
give us, our daily bread
the words of a community
a communion, a loving family
praying, in unison, together,
kneeling, in faith
at the rail, in the pews
in the holy space
standing on holy ground
a prayer to our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
give us, our daily bread
the words of a community
a communion, a loving family
praying, in unison, together,
kneeling, in faith
at the rail, in the pews
in the holy space
standing on holy ground
a prayer to our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
Our Prayer
The prayer, which he taught
his words, for us to share,
for our prayer
The prayer he told us to pray
For the words connect us
join us, with him,
Our Father, humbly, reverently
falling on our knees
our hearts focused on the creator
the Father who loved us
who loves us still
who wants us home
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
his words, for us to share,
for our prayer
The prayer he told us to pray
For the words connect us
join us, with him,
Our Father, humbly, reverently
falling on our knees
our hearts focused on the creator
the Father who loved us
who loves us still
who wants us home
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
Our Father - 2
The words are “Our Father”
praying to God, claiming the divine
our Father, as Christ is our brother
co-heirs of his inheritance
to be welcomed home
into the room, the mansions
set aside for us, for us, his children
beloved, as is the Son
Our Father, close, intimate
familial connection
Like the father in the story,
the Prodigal Son
All of us welcomed, watched
cared for, loved
by Our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
praying to God, claiming the divine
our Father, as Christ is our brother
co-heirs of his inheritance
to be welcomed home
into the room, the mansions
set aside for us, for us, his children
beloved, as is the Son
Our Father, close, intimate
familial connection
Like the father in the story,
the Prodigal Son
All of us welcomed, watched
cared for, loved
by Our Father
December 10, 2008
Matthew 6:9-13
Matthew 6:5-15
Lord’s Prayer
A Neighbor
Looking for definition
term of art, the bounds
the legal jargon
“Who is my neighbor?”
The plain meaning, legislative intent
looking for limits
An expansive response, a case study
a fact-based scenario
judging from the circumstances,
the details deciding the issue
the spirit of the law
in the definition of neighbor.
December 10, 2008
Luke 10:25-37
The lawyer’s question and
the story of the Good Samaritan
term of art, the bounds
the legal jargon
“Who is my neighbor?”
The plain meaning, legislative intent
looking for limits
An expansive response, a case study
a fact-based scenario
judging from the circumstances,
the details deciding the issue
the spirit of the law
in the definition of neighbor.
December 10, 2008
Luke 10:25-37
The lawyer’s question and
the story of the Good Samaritan
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Light, into the World
His light, living, growing,
becoming part of us,
his reflected light,
becoming our own
growing within us,
we are in the world
living in time and space
spiritual beings, human bodies
like him of God created
like him heaven-bound
being Christ, his life, his light
his light, out into the World
for all to see, up high,
on the lamp stand
projecting
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
becoming part of us,
his reflected light,
becoming our own
growing within us,
we are in the world
living in time and space
spiritual beings, human bodies
like him of God created
like him heaven-bound
being Christ, his life, his light
his light, out into the World
for all to see, up high,
on the lamp stand
projecting
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
Shining through us
His light, for the world
radiating, shining through us
out of our very skin, our pores
shining into the darkness
bringing light, real hope
to a world in darkness
living without faith,
without love, grounding
Shining through us, our word,
our action, telling his story
his sacrifice, his love
his saving grace
His light, shining through us
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
radiating, shining through us
out of our very skin, our pores
shining into the darkness
bringing light, real hope
to a world in darkness
living without faith,
without love, grounding
Shining through us, our word,
our action, telling his story
his sacrifice, his love
his saving grace
His light, shining through us
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
Reflected Light
Light to the world
his light, reflected in us,
through us, living within us
we the bushel, the lamp stand
depending on our choice
Reflect the light, his holy light
out into the darkness
helping others to see, hope
to find their way
back to the Father
their way home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
his light, reflected in us,
through us, living within us
we the bushel, the lamp stand
depending on our choice
Reflect the light, his holy light
out into the darkness
helping others to see, hope
to find their way
back to the Father
their way home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:14-16
Matthew 5:1-16
John 8:21
Monday, December 08, 2008
Led to the cross
Each of us, if we are open, ready, prepared
led to the cross, the cross of Christ, his sacrifice
his blood shed; his body pierced
submitting himself for all of us
Led to the cross, the cross of salvation
the empty cross, the Christ raised, risen
from the dead, from Sheol,
conquering death, the grave, the cross
living now, eternal, at the right hand, the Father
Led to the cross, facing our cross, our yoke
submitting our will, just as he did
taking up our cross, our yoke
Led to the cross, to pick up where he left off
December 8, 2008
led to the cross, the cross of Christ, his sacrifice
his blood shed; his body pierced
submitting himself for all of us
Led to the cross, the cross of salvation
the empty cross, the Christ raised, risen
from the dead, from Sheol,
conquering death, the grave, the cross
living now, eternal, at the right hand, the Father
Led to the cross, facing our cross, our yoke
submitting our will, just as he did
taking up our cross, our yoke
Led to the cross, to pick up where he left off
December 8, 2008
Lead me to the cross
“Lead me to the cross”, his profile said
his statement to the world, written on the ether,
the ephemeral, the web
permanent as the bits, the bytes, the history,
Lead me to the cross, let me know your paths,
Oh my risen Lord
walk with me, beside me,
guide my wayward ways
correct me, coax me;
lead me in the yoke, your ways
Lead me to the cross, humble, servant king
let me be you, your fragrance, your hands
the feet of the savior, walking toward
walking into danger, into where there is need
give me the strength, the will,
to conform to your holy will
heeding the spirit, growing, within me
Teach me your ways,
Lead me to the cross
December 8, 2008
his statement to the world, written on the ether,
the ephemeral, the web
permanent as the bits, the bytes, the history,
Lead me to the cross, let me know your paths,
Oh my risen Lord
walk with me, beside me,
guide my wayward ways
correct me, coax me;
lead me in the yoke, your ways
Lead me to the cross, humble, servant king
let me be you, your fragrance, your hands
the feet of the savior, walking toward
walking into danger, into where there is need
give me the strength, the will,
to conform to your holy will
heeding the spirit, growing, within me
Teach me your ways,
Lead me to the cross
December 8, 2008
Sunday, December 07, 2008
The Shoot, the Root, the Vine
The stump, the remnant, the root of Jesse
eternal, the connection, the living vine
one with Him, with them, abiding
the shoot, long buried in the stump
fruits of the vine, each of us
bringing hope, fulfillment,
greater than he,
being light to the world
December 7, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
John 15:1-8
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
eternal, the connection, the living vine
one with Him, with them, abiding
the shoot, long buried in the stump
fruits of the vine, each of us
bringing hope, fulfillment,
greater than he,
being light to the world
December 7, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
John 15:1-8
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
You are the light of the world
“You are the light of the world.”
Such a statement, a calling
God speaking to man
we are the light of the world,
us, these clay vessels,
to illumine the darkness
to make straight the crooked paths
to push back the dark
to lead the world home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
Such a statement, a calling
God speaking to man
we are the light of the world,
us, these clay vessels,
to illumine the darkness
to make straight the crooked paths
to push back the dark
to lead the world home
December 7, 2008
Matthew 5:14
Matthew 5:1-16
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 31,490+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Our Wilderness
Our voices, our wilderness
like John, in the river
proclaiming the coming
of our Lord, the son of God
mightier than all
baptizer with God’s spirit
that the Holy Spirit
may live within us
The need to call to repentance
as strong now as then
in this our wilderness
in this our time
December 7, 2008
Mark 1:1-8
like John, in the river
proclaiming the coming
of our Lord, the son of God
mightier than all
baptizer with God’s spirit
that the Holy Spirit
may live within us
The need to call to repentance
as strong now as then
in this our wilderness
in this our time
December 7, 2008
Mark 1:1-8
Saturday, December 06, 2008
whispered in their dreams
the history of the world, the very future of life
changed in that moment, when their faith prevailed
when they were comforted, when they agreed
their lives forever altered when
the angels whispered in their dreams
a savior given life, given parents
the prophesy fulfilled
from the stump
will come God.
the peaceable kingdom will come.
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
changed in that moment, when their faith prevailed
when they were comforted, when they agreed
their lives forever altered when
the angels whispered in their dreams
a savior given life, given parents
the prophesy fulfilled
from the stump
will come God.
the peaceable kingdom will come.
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
By Angels Manifested
In dreams, by angels manifested
the fulfillment of prophesies of old
the line bringing forth, the savior of the world
a blessing in faith made real, given life
the faith of the couple, each taking risk,
believing, living in trust
bringing Christ to the world
through the words of the angels
whispered in their dreams
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
the fulfillment of prophesies of old
the line bringing forth, the savior of the world
a blessing in faith made real, given life
the faith of the couple, each taking risk,
believing, living in trust
bringing Christ to the world
through the words of the angels
whispered in their dreams
December 6, 2008
Isaiah 11:1-9
Matthew 1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke 1:26-38 (Mary)
Mary and Joseph's Journey
Mary and Joseph’s journey,
so much more, much more
than traveling from Nazareth
to Bethlehem, the Temple
the holy city of David; Jesse’s shoot,
the root of Jesse, long buried
So much more, the distance
their journey, each one,
heavenly blessed, touched by angels
by the voice of angels blessed
called to be the agents, the servants
the means by the savior, coming to save
into the world, human, incarnate
living God, the babe she carried,
his first son, so far their journeys
together they traveled to
David’s city, the fulfillment to come
their journey, holy and right
leading us, in the Advent-tide
all of us pilgrims now with them
journeying to that stable, that manger bed
so much more, much more
than traveling from Nazareth
to Bethlehem, the Temple
the holy city of David; Jesse’s shoot,
the root of Jesse, long buried
So much more, the distance
their journey, each one,
heavenly blessed, touched by angels
by the voice of angels blessed
called to be the agents, the servants
the means by the savior, coming to save
into the world, human, incarnate
living God, the babe she carried,
his first son, so far their journeys
together they traveled to
David’s city, the fulfillment to come
their journey, holy and right
leading us, in the Advent-tide
all of us pilgrims now with them
journeying to that stable, that manger bed
edited
December 9, 2014
Mary
and Joseph’s Journey – v2
December
6, 2008
Mary
and Joseph’s Journey
Isaiah
11:1-9
Matthew
1:18-24 (Joseph)
Luke
1:26-38 (Mary)
&
Matthew
1:18-25
3rd
Sunday of Advent
Advent
Sermon Series: The Voices of Advent, “I was there…”
Luke
1:26-38 (KJV)
Voices
of Advent – “I was there…”
dramas
by Ross Olson
sermon/message
– “Joseph”
(as
performed by Raymond A. Foss who, like Joseph,
is
an step-father and adoptive father)
children’s
message
–
mystery box –
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
Advent
wreath lighting
Prayer
of Thanksgiving –
by Raymond A. Foss
communion
worship
led by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon
blog
meditation
blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Stetson
Memorial United Methodist Church
2nd
Sunday of Advent
December
14, 2014
&
2nd
Sunday of Advent
Advent
Sermon Series: The Voices of Advent, “I was there…”
Luke
1:26-38 (KJV)
Voices
of Advent – “I was there…”
dramas
by Ross Olson
sermon/message
– “Mary”
(as
performed by Shyanne Foss,
who,
like Mary, is 14 years old)
children’s
message
–
mystery box – spool of thread and cloth
and needles
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
Advent
wreath lighting
Prayer
of Thanksgiving –
we
thank you Lord – v2
by Raymond A. Foss
communion
worship
led by Pastor Ruth Foss
Stetson
Memorial United Methodist Church
2nd
Sunday of Advent
December
7, 2014
&
1st
Sunday of Advent
Advent
Sermon Series: The Voices of Advent, “I was there…”
Sacred
Dance Introit
Michael
W. Smith’s
“Intro
and Prepare Ye the Way”
from
his New Hallelujah album
Advent
wreath lighting
Prayer
of Thanksgiving –
by
Jeanie Goode
Luke
1:19-20a
children’s
message
–
mystery box –
envelope
with note
Voices
of Advent – “I was there…”
dramas
by Ross Olson
sermon/message
– “Angel Gabriel”
(as
performed by Terry Pettengill)
worship
led by Pastor Ruth Foss
Stetson
Memorial United Methodist Church
1st
Sunday of Advent
November
30, 2014
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 40,380+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Oak, Pine, and Grasses
Shades of browns, driving by
mile on mile, below the greens of the pines
oak, pine, and grasses,
leaves, needles, blades
all creating a single color,
brown below the green
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , NH
mile on mile, below the greens of the pines
oak, pine, and grasses,
leaves, needles, blades
all creating a single color,
brown below the green
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , NH
Granite Hay Bales
The field, positioned, placed
granite hay bales, as if harvested
grown from the soil, the crop of the farmer
bundled and situated
waiting to be hauled and stored
in the barn, for winter feed
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
granite hay bales, as if harvested
grown from the soil, the crop of the farmer
bundled and situated
waiting to be hauled and stored
in the barn, for winter feed
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
Blank Space
Blank space, stripped
up to about my shoulder
all bare, up to where they can reach
once the winter snow falls
blank below, brown
green above
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
the line where deer reach
up to about my shoulder
all bare, up to where they can reach
once the winter snow falls
blank below, brown
green above
December 5, 2008
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
the line where deer reach
Reaching Out
A birch, fallen, extending
reaching out, over the still-running water
the bank starting to freeze, the water moving
down below the highway
bright white, yearning
reaching out over the water
catching the cooling light
December sun,
before wintertime
December 5, 2008
Contoocook River
near Hatfield Road,
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
reaching out, over the still-running water
the bank starting to freeze, the water moving
down below the highway
bright white, yearning
reaching out over the water
catching the cooling light
December sun,
before wintertime
December 5, 2008
Contoocook River
near Hatfield Road,
Rte 202 , Contoocook, NH
Tails
a small patch, a cluster
cattails in the median
glowing, glistening
December sun, midday
Ready to burst open
like milkweed pods
to spread the seeds
to the four winds
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Hopkinton, NH
cattails in the median
glowing, glistening
December sun, midday
Ready to burst open
like milkweed pods
to spread the seeds
to the four winds
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Hopkinton, NH
Footprints in the Snow
The wind, waves, in the frozen surface
dark and light, sculptured, textured
like footprints in the snow
a herd of steps, of feet
An ocean of footfalls, a stampede
wave on wave, across
the new-frozen surface
of the still lake below
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Concord, NH
dark and light, sculptured, textured
like footprints in the snow
a herd of steps, of feet
An ocean of footfalls, a stampede
wave on wave, across
the new-frozen surface
of the still lake below
December 5, 2008
Rte 89, Concord, NH
Snow between the rows
Snow, a melting dusting
layered, in the December sun
mud, ruts, the stubble
snow between the rows, the stalks
the dirt changing, darkening
becoming wet, mud
straw stalks, cut by the reaping
long grey, gone to market
snow, for the moment frozen
between the fallow rows
December 5, 2008
corn field, Clinton Street,
Rte 13, Concord, NH
layered, in the December sun
mud, ruts, the stubble
snow between the rows, the stalks
the dirt changing, darkening
becoming wet, mud
straw stalks, cut by the reaping
long grey, gone to market
snow, for the moment frozen
between the fallow rows
December 5, 2008
corn field, Clinton Street,
Rte 13, Concord, NH
The Purr of a Cat
Sitting there, the office
petting, stroking his orange fur
she spoke of a longing, a desire
the purr of a cat, remembering
wishing for its return
that memory, that quality
comfort at home, of belonging
speaking lovingly to her
through, in, by
the purr of a cat
December 5, 2008
Moe
petting, stroking his orange fur
she spoke of a longing, a desire
the purr of a cat, remembering
wishing for its return
that memory, that quality
comfort at home, of belonging
speaking lovingly to her
through, in, by
the purr of a cat
December 5, 2008
Moe
Thursday, December 04, 2008
A Seam in the Sky
Looking upward, memories
looking down, below my feet
outward, beyond my vision
a seam in the cold December sky
cut, white, ivory, in the darkening clouds
an echo, a memory
fissured cracks in a Minnesota lake
thirty-seven years ago
Tendrils to the seam, like fingers of frost
feathering the edges, the light seeping
coming through the moving line
reaching beyond my vision
driving north under glowering skies
December 4, 2008
looking down, below my feet
outward, beyond my vision
a seam in the cold December sky
cut, white, ivory, in the darkening clouds
an echo, a memory
fissured cracks in a Minnesota lake
thirty-seven years ago
Tendrils to the seam, like fingers of frost
feathering the edges, the light seeping
coming through the moving line
reaching beyond my vision
driving north under glowering skies
December 4, 2008
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Mary’s Face in the Dark
Her face, the virgin Mary
glowing in the night,
shining in the kitchen window
illuminating the room,
after midnight
The artistry of the painter
captured in the palette,
the simple figure
in the darkened night
Her faith shining
December 2, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
above the breezeway
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
glowing in the night,
shining in the kitchen window
illuminating the room,
after midnight
The artistry of the painter
captured in the palette,
the simple figure
in the darkened night
Her faith shining
December 2, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
above the breezeway
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
The Cold
I feel the cold
closing in, seeping, oozing
slowly coming in
through the walls, the floor,
the panes of tempered glass
the cold, the damp, the tongues of winter
relentlessly striving, seeking
coming into the house
through the open doorways,
the seams, the cracks, the thin edges,
through the metal, the wood, the glass
seeking to come in,
where it is warm
December 2, 2008
closing in, seeping, oozing
slowly coming in
through the walls, the floor,
the panes of tempered glass
the cold, the damp, the tongues of winter
relentlessly striving, seeking
coming into the house
through the open doorways,
the seams, the cracks, the thin edges,
through the metal, the wood, the glass
seeking to come in,
where it is warm
December 2, 2008
In Nature
in the touch of my daughters’ fingers
in the brush of our cats’ fur
in the swirl of leaves falling to the ground
the dance of snowflakes, driven by a hidden hand
in the flickering stars in the night sky
the fading warmth of the sun at twilight
in nature, in memory, in the senses
I feel the closeness, the direction, the precision
of the creator, the master, the potter,
shaping, conjuring, bringing into being
out of nothingness a world, a universe
order out of chaos, harmonious
in nature revealed, the grace of God
December 2, 2008
in the brush of our cats’ fur
in the swirl of leaves falling to the ground
the dance of snowflakes, driven by a hidden hand
in the flickering stars in the night sky
the fading warmth of the sun at twilight
in nature, in memory, in the senses
I feel the closeness, the direction, the precision
of the creator, the master, the potter,
shaping, conjuring, bringing into being
out of nothingness a world, a universe
order out of chaos, harmonious
in nature revealed, the grace of God
December 2, 2008
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Happiness Inside
Happiness grows within us
a sense of being, of sharing, of true blessing,
no matter our circumstances
Happiness dies within us
when we linger, ponder, on injustices, slights,
on the problems of life
Happiness soars within us
when we look to the positive
when we center on Christ
when we remember
Happiness is a choice
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
a sense of being, of sharing, of true blessing,
no matter our circumstances
Happiness dies within us
when we linger, ponder, on injustices, slights,
on the problems of life
Happiness soars within us
when we look to the positive
when we center on Christ
when we remember
Happiness is a choice
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
She Cannot Make You Mad
Wisdom in the scripture, of the nature of blessing
an internal feeling, something within
not something we have done to us
yes we are blessed, the past tense of the word to bless
but we are blessed, a state of being blessed,
by the workings of our hearts
And, just as is true of happiness, the same is true
of anger, of being mad.
“She cannot make you mad;
it is your choice to be mad.”
So is one of the conversations in our house
If only the wisdom of the scriptures
could be bottled. Far harder to read,
and to internalize its truths.
For me too.
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
an internal feeling, something within
not something we have done to us
yes we are blessed, the past tense of the word to bless
but we are blessed, a state of being blessed,
by the workings of our hearts
And, just as is true of happiness, the same is true
of anger, of being mad.
“She cannot make you mad;
it is your choice to be mad.”
So is one of the conversations in our house
If only the wisdom of the scriptures
could be bottled. Far harder to read,
and to internalize its truths.
For me too.
November 30, 2008
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the Sermon on the Mount
Happiness Within
Happiness, not something external
a state of being, deep within, within ourselves
living with us, walking with us, our hearts
blessed are the… ones who can accept blessing
who can find happiness within
a state of being, deep within, within ourselves
living with us, walking with us, our hearts
blessed are the… ones who can accept blessing
who can find happiness within
November 30, 2008
Happiness Within
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the
Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the
Sermon on the Mount
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 40,290+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Blessed Within
We are blessed, no so much from the external signs
blessed within, within our hearts, our spirits
the gifts manifested, visible, when we are aware, conscious
feel blessed within. Blessed are the present, the awake,
those able to see the blessings heaped, given
joyful in their moment, in their present
enjoying the presence of God
walking with them through life
blessed within, within our hearts, our spirits
the gifts manifested, visible, when we are aware, conscious
feel blessed within. Blessed are the present, the awake,
those able to see the blessings heaped, given
joyful in their moment, in their present
enjoying the presence of God
walking with them through life
edited December 4, 2015
Blessed Within – v2
November 30, 2008
Blessed Within
edited December 4, 2015
Happiness Within – v2
November 30, 2008
Happiness Within
Matthew 5:3
Matthew 5:1-12, the
Beatitudes
Matthew 5:1-7:27, the
Sermon on the Mount
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 40,290+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
The Waiting Season
The season of Advent
the waiting season, out in the winter cold
spending time in community, in fellowship
in your adorned sanctuary, remembering
the star, the couple, called by the angels,
the stable, the manger, his lowly bed,
shepherds in the pasture, wise men studying the stars
all parts of the story, the beginning
the word become flesh
But the story of waiting is for another day
another moment yet to come
when the skies will darken and thunder roars
when the trumpets will sound heralding
the return of the king
to judge and to bring into the garner
the faithful, those on watch, those awake
prepared in this waiting season
for the reaping time
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the waiting season, out in the winter cold
spending time in community, in fellowship
in your adorned sanctuary, remembering
the star, the couple, called by the angels,
the stable, the manger, his lowly bed,
shepherds in the pasture, wise men studying the stars
all parts of the story, the beginning
the word become flesh
But the story of waiting is for another day
another moment yet to come
when the skies will darken and thunder roars
when the trumpets will sound heralding
the return of the king
to judge and to bring into the garner
the faithful, those on watch, those awake
prepared in this waiting season
for the reaping time
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Waiting - 2
Waiting, in our hearts, for our king
born in the manger, living in heaven
at the right hand of God
Waiting, in our lives, for our brother
the servant, the sacrifice
dying on the cross, rising to glory
Waiting, in our faith, for our savior
to return in triumph, at the trumpet’s call
to be ready, awake, on watch,
being Christ to the world
in the waiting, doing his work
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
born in the manger, living in heaven
at the right hand of God
Waiting, in our lives, for our brother
the servant, the sacrifice
dying on the cross, rising to glory
Waiting, in our faith, for our savior
to return in triumph, at the trumpet’s call
to be ready, awake, on watch,
being Christ to the world
in the waiting, doing his work
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Anticipation
Anticipation, this Advent season
waiting, wondering, when will that time come
watching the calendar, for the coming of the babe
the gift of Christ’s birth, relived each year
waiting wonder, when will that time come
watching the signs, the changing of the days,
the coming of the King, in victory
at that time unknown, known only to God
waiting, expectantly, urgent, awake, doing his work,
on guard for that coming day, anticipation for the hour
when Christ comes in glory, to bring his people home
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
waiting, wondering, when will that time come
watching the calendar, for the coming of the babe
the gift of Christ’s birth, relived each year
waiting wonder, when will that time come
watching the signs, the changing of the days,
the coming of the King, in victory
at that time unknown, known only to God
waiting, expectantly, urgent, awake, doing his work,
on guard for that coming day, anticipation for the hour
when Christ comes in glory, to bring his people home
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Waiting Expectantly
Waiting expectantly, for the Christ child
the babe of Bethlehem, grown and risen
his first life on earth complete
Risen and living at the right hand
with the father in heaven
Waiting expectantly for this coming
not knowing the time of his return
Waiting, awake, watching for the signs
that which has been foretold
just as we watch for the signs in nature
so must we be mindful, watching
waiting expectantly for the king to come
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the babe of Bethlehem, grown and risen
his first life on earth complete
Risen and living at the right hand
with the father in heaven
Waiting expectantly for this coming
not knowing the time of his return
Waiting, awake, watching for the signs
that which has been foretold
just as we watch for the signs in nature
so must we be mindful, watching
waiting expectantly for the king to come
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Expectantly Waiting
Expectantly waiting, for Christmas
for the Christ child, the songs, the hymns,
the pageant, the story, shepherds, angels,
wise men three, joining, coming together
around the lowly manger bed
Sharing these moments in family, in community
expectantly waiting in advent
remembering the story of our king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
for the Christ child, the songs, the hymns,
the pageant, the story, shepherds, angels,
wise men three, joining, coming together
around the lowly manger bed
Sharing these moments in family, in community
expectantly waiting in advent
remembering the story of our king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Anticipation – acrostic
Angels sang of your coming
None can stand before you my king
Teach me to wait expectantly for your second coming
Immanuel, God with us, resting in a manger
Come let us behold him, Christ the King
I fall to my knees, preparing, watching, awake to the appointed hour
Prophets foretold of your holy birth
All of creation will sing praises to the king
Trumpets and thunder will herald your coming on the clouds
I Am returning to claim his children
Outer darkness for those who deny his majesty
Now is the time to prepare, to be ready for our God
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
None can stand before you my king
Teach me to wait expectantly for your second coming
Immanuel, God with us, resting in a manger
Come let us behold him, Christ the King
I fall to my knees, preparing, watching, awake to the appointed hour
Prophets foretold of your holy birth
All of creation will sing praises to the king
Trumpets and thunder will herald your coming on the clouds
I Am returning to claim his children
Outer darkness for those who deny his majesty
Now is the time to prepare, to be ready for our God
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Journey of Waiting
Walking, reading, pondering, waiting
a journey of waiting, expectant, hopeful
of his miraculous birth, the story of his life
for his coming, to rescue the faithful
to bring us to our heavenly home
expectantly waiting for Christmas
waiting expectantly for his second coming
so is the journey of waiting
this advent and all year long
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
a journey of waiting, expectant, hopeful
of his miraculous birth, the story of his life
for his coming, to rescue the faithful
to bring us to our heavenly home
expectantly waiting for Christmas
waiting expectantly for his second coming
so is the journey of waiting
this advent and all year long
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
The Nativity Evolving
Over the days, the journey of Advent
the nativity evolving,
the scene coming into focus
beginning with the couple, expectant
alone, in the rented stable
away from family, from home
waiting, under his star, for a son,
foretold by angels, by prophets
Shepherds watching their sheep, expectant
on guard for predators, for robbers
awake for trouble, called by herald angels
to the babe newborn in the manger
Wise men, long before his birthing,
following a star, in the west,
leading them and their gifts
to his lowly bed
All of us, through the ages
drawn to the bed of the newborn king
our savior come into the world
to set us free
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the nativity evolving,
the scene coming into focus
beginning with the couple, expectant
alone, in the rented stable
away from family, from home
waiting, under his star, for a son,
foretold by angels, by prophets
Shepherds watching their sheep, expectant
on guard for predators, for robbers
awake for trouble, called by herald angels
to the babe newborn in the manger
Wise men, long before his birthing,
following a star, in the west,
leading them and their gifts
to his lowly bed
All of us, through the ages
drawn to the bed of the newborn king
our savior come into the world
to set us free
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Crispness
A crispness to the air, the sky
the sounds of leaves underfoot
of the wheels running on the pavement
the snap of the flag by the bank
the feel of the air in my lungs
the smell of a wood fire
warming a house nearby
a day before the first snow,
a crispness to the world
November 30, 2008
the sounds of leaves underfoot
of the wheels running on the pavement
the snap of the flag by the bank
the feel of the air in my lungs
the smell of a wood fire
warming a house nearby
a day before the first snow,
a crispness to the world
November 30, 2008
The Advent Journey
Following the star,
we all, like them, following the star
the light, the Word
coming into the world
living with us, to be among us
a journey of waiting, with wonder
experiencing anew
that which they beheld
the star of his rising,
his bright birth star
Bringing that light
into the sanctuary, into our hearts
preparing ourselves, awake, on watch
for the babe in the manger
the king on the clouds
that is our Advent journey
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
we all, like them, following the star
the light, the Word
coming into the world
living with us, to be among us
a journey of waiting, with wonder
experiencing anew
that which they beheld
the star of his rising,
his bright birth star
Bringing that light
into the sanctuary, into our hearts
preparing ourselves, awake, on watch
for the babe in the manger
the king on the clouds
that is our Advent journey
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Mary and Joseph
The chosen pair, to be the parents
alone, in his ancestral home
journeying to Bethlehem
coming to this place, to the manger bed
the stable, all that was available
alone in that place, man and woman
Waiting, as we wait, them for his birth
we for his return, waiting expectantly
for the unknown future, prophesized
but as yet unknown, mysterious,
by faith alone prepared
on watch, awake, on guard
for the coming of the king
his parents, his disciples
all the people of the earth
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
alone, in his ancestral home
journeying to Bethlehem
coming to this place, to the manger bed
the stable, all that was available
alone in that place, man and woman
Waiting, as we wait, them for his birth
we for his return, waiting expectantly
for the unknown future, prophesized
but as yet unknown, mysterious,
by faith alone prepared
on watch, awake, on guard
for the coming of the king
his parents, his disciples
all the people of the earth
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Be Strong in the Lord
Be Strong in the Lord
so said the church’s sign
by the roadside, many weeks gone by
What did the drivers think
as they raced by, busy in their lives
Did they think about the scripture
the admonition, the urging
to be resolute, not in ourselves;
not self-made men, women
Be strong in the Lord alone
for he is worthy of our praise
November 30, 2008
Ephesians 6:10
Hillside Baptist Church sign
Pembroke, NH
so said the church’s sign
by the roadside, many weeks gone by
What did the drivers think
as they raced by, busy in their lives
Did they think about the scripture
the admonition, the urging
to be resolute, not in ourselves;
not self-made men, women
Be strong in the Lord alone
for he is worthy of our praise
November 30, 2008
Ephesians 6:10
Hillside Baptist Church sign
Pembroke, NH
A Light Burning in the Window
Shining down on them
expectantly waiting, the coming
the birth of their child,
a son foretold,
by prophets, by angels
A light burning in the window
falling on the expectant couple
the father, the mother
those called by the angels
Appointed by God
to birth our Savior
reminding us all
of his birth star
November 30, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
expectantly waiting, the coming
the birth of their child,
a son foretold,
by prophets, by angels
A light burning in the window
falling on the expectant couple
the father, the mother
those called by the angels
Appointed by God
to birth our Savior
reminding us all
of his birth star
November 30, 2008
parsonage, Mary and Joseph in the window,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Pembroke, NH
Coming to this place
Coming to this place
to the sanctuary, the manger bed
a journey of Mary, of Joseph,
of the shepherds, the Magi,
of you, of me, all coming to this place
to see the king in the manger bed
written on November 30, 2008
on the November 29, 2008 Greening of the Church service,
on the November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
to the sanctuary, the manger bed
a journey of Mary, of Joseph,
of the shepherds, the Magi,
of you, of me, all coming to this place
to see the king in the manger bed
written on November 30, 2008
on the November 29, 2008 Greening of the Church service,
on the November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
The Advent Wreath
A circle of wire, of wood, of metal
garland of ivy, of fir, of holly, of poinsettias
unending love, stages of our journey
leading to the Christ child
the center, the hub, the circle
around which our journey revolves
leading us to the center,
to his bright holy light
his candle to share
the light with the world
written November 30, 2008
November 29 Greening the Church service
November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
garland of ivy, of fir, of holly, of poinsettias
unending love, stages of our journey
leading to the Christ child
the center, the hub, the circle
around which our journey revolves
leading us to the center,
to his bright holy light
his candle to share
the light with the world
written November 30, 2008
November 29 Greening the Church service
November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Advent Season
The season, Advent season
the season of waiting, of hope,
expectancy, longing, remembering
the babe in the manger,
the King, riding on the clouds
The song of angels, the bleat of the lamb
the feet of the Magi, journeying there
The sound of trumpets blast, cymbals and thunder
all a part of the season, Advent season
preparing, expectant, waiting, longing
both the babe and the King
our savior, our brother, our Lord
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
the season of waiting, of hope,
expectancy, longing, remembering
the babe in the manger,
the King, riding on the clouds
The song of angels, the bleat of the lamb
the feet of the Magi, journeying there
The sound of trumpets blast, cymbals and thunder
all a part of the season, Advent season
preparing, expectant, waiting, longing
both the babe and the King
our savior, our brother, our Lord
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Keep Awake
Keep awake, your oil ready
watch, for the coming of the Lord
for we know not the time or place
when he will return, to judge, to save
anticipation, expectant, watching, waiting
for that wondrous day, in glory, in praise
with the sounds of thunder, of trumpets
Shouting across the sky
Keep awake, active, working, serving
ready for the coming of that day
the return of the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
Mark 13:32-37
and Disciplines for November 30, 2008
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
watch, for the coming of the Lord
for we know not the time or place
when he will return, to judge, to save
anticipation, expectant, watching, waiting
for that wondrous day, in glory, in praise
with the sounds of thunder, of trumpets
Shouting across the sky
Keep awake, active, working, serving
ready for the coming of that day
the return of the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
Mark 13:32-37
and Disciplines for November 30, 2008
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A City Prepared
A city prepared, a foreign land
made ready for us
unseen by the saints
waiting, prepared for them
the reward of faith
that which is hoped for
that which is unseen
made ready and waiting
for you and for me
if we are ready at His coming
humble and true
November 30, 2008
Hebrews 11:1-16
Upper Room devotional November 30, 2008
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=30&year=2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
made ready for us
unseen by the saints
waiting, prepared for them
the reward of faith
that which is hoped for
that which is unseen
made ready and waiting
for you and for me
if we are ready at His coming
humble and true
November 30, 2008
Hebrews 11:1-16
Upper Room devotional November 30, 2008
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=30&year=2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Passing His Cup
Each time, each of us,
passing His cup, drinking
from that one cup, His offering
His singular sacrifice
shedding His blood, giving His body
We share His cup
Passed down from apostle to disciple
from sinner to sinner
down through the ages, the generations
passing His cup of salvation
that all may drink, to all,
to the ends of the earth
November 30, 2008
Communion, first Sunday of Advent
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
passing His cup, drinking
from that one cup, His offering
His singular sacrifice
shedding His blood, giving His body
We share His cup
Passed down from apostle to disciple
from sinner to sinner
down through the ages, the generations
passing His cup of salvation
that all may drink, to all,
to the ends of the earth
November 30, 2008
Communion, first Sunday of Advent
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Red and Green
The red of His blood, the green of hope, for us
of the promise of the sheltered valley
our future foretold
by the prophets of old
Red and green coloring your church
the sanctuary alive
ready for your birth
the coming of our King.
written November 30, 2008
November 29, 2008
Greening of the Church service
and November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
of the promise of the sheltered valley
our future foretold
by the prophets of old
Red and green coloring your church
the sanctuary alive
ready for your birth
the coming of our King.
written November 30, 2008
November 29, 2008
Greening of the Church service
and November 30, 2008 service
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Candle of Peace
A first candle lit,
a candle of peace
beginning our journey
a light burning in that circle
never ending, glowing
committing ourselves
to be a light, that light
in this world,
not just this sanctuary,
this community, anticipating too
remembering his life, his promise
of eternal peace
November 30, 2008
Lighting of the first Advent candle,
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
a candle of peace
beginning our journey
a light burning in that circle
never ending, glowing
committing ourselves
to be a light, that light
in this world,
not just this sanctuary,
this community, anticipating too
remembering his life, his promise
of eternal peace
November 30, 2008
Lighting of the first Advent candle,
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A New Year Begun
This day, a new year begun
Advent, the season of waiting
slowing our pace, even amid the holiday bustle
starting anew, centering us
on the light, coming into the world
waiting with anticipation, reminding us
the birth of our savior, his promise to come
to return, at a time of the father’s choosing
to set us free.
A new year begun, in a sanctuary colored in red, in green
in gold, in purple, readied for the coming child
the king come to earth, the son sacrificed
the gift of the father, to return in glory
waiting, watching, ready, we hope
for that day unknown, known to God alone
when our world will end
and his reign is at hand
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Advent, the season of waiting
slowing our pace, even amid the holiday bustle
starting anew, centering us
on the light, coming into the world
waiting with anticipation, reminding us
the birth of our savior, his promise to come
to return, at a time of the father’s choosing
to set us free.
A new year begun, in a sanctuary colored in red, in green
in gold, in purple, readied for the coming child
the king come to earth, the son sacrificed
the gift of the father, to return in glory
waiting, watching, ready, we hope
for that day unknown, known to God alone
when our world will end
and his reign is at hand
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
A Journey to Find Christ
Like them, a journey, each of us,
in our own time, our own ways
a journey to find Christ
walking as the Magi, the wise men,
following His star, being faithful,
waiting, expectant of the remembrance
the birthing of his life, down in a manger bed
Expectant too, the return of our king
trying, hopeful, to be awake, to be ready
anticipating the annual memory of the babe
the daily living out, our oil ready,
awake, on watch
our journey of life, of faith
preparing for our king
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
in our own time, our own ways
a journey to find Christ
walking as the Magi, the wise men,
following His star, being faithful,
waiting, expectant of the remembrance
the birthing of his life, down in a manger bed
Expectant too, the return of our king
trying, hopeful, to be awake, to be ready
anticipating the annual memory of the babe
the daily living out, our oil ready,
awake, on watch
our journey of life, of faith
preparing for our king
November 30, 2008
Matthew 2:11
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Advent – haiku
came into the world
God as man, one flesh alive
waiting for the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
God as man, one flesh alive
waiting for the king
November 30, 2008
Isaiah 64:1-9
Mark 13:24-37
and sermon, “Anticipation”
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Advent – v3
Anticipating the coming of the Lord
Divine made flesh
Voices of angels calling
Eternal love in human form
Nativity, humble and mild
Tell the world, the savior comes!
November 29, 2008
Divine made flesh
Voices of angels calling
Eternal love in human form
Nativity, humble and mild
Tell the world, the savior comes!
November 29, 2008
Thursday, November 27, 2008
In Thanksgiving
In thanksgiving, we pause, we slow ourselves
we gather together, family and friends,
reflecting, memories rich with our collective past
our shared times together, washing over us
thinking of our blessings, at harvest, in thanksgiving
Our provision, day by day, our health, our family,
our friends, our nation, this world, troubled as it is
So much for which to be thankful, so many gifts
given by our creator, our savior, our savior,
our sustainer, our God
Like the first Thanksgiving, gathered together
around a table of your bounty, the gifts of the earth
grain and drink, meat and game, a harvest
Bowing our heads, our hearts as one,
joining in prayer, for the gifts we share
Remembering too, those who are not home
thankful for their service, for their sacrifice
those who stand in harm’s way on our behalf
thankful too for those on guard, for all who serve us
whether in foreign fields or in fire houses down the street
For you oh God, for your presence and your love
for your grounding and your grace
we give you thanks
For all we are and all we have are gifts from you
We humbly pause, and give you thanks.
November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving Day
we gather together, family and friends,
reflecting, memories rich with our collective past
our shared times together, washing over us
thinking of our blessings, at harvest, in thanksgiving
Our provision, day by day, our health, our family,
our friends, our nation, this world, troubled as it is
So much for which to be thankful, so many gifts
given by our creator, our savior, our savior,
our sustainer, our God
Like the first Thanksgiving, gathered together
around a table of your bounty, the gifts of the earth
grain and drink, meat and game, a harvest
Bowing our heads, our hearts as one,
joining in prayer, for the gifts we share
Remembering too, those who are not home
thankful for their service, for their sacrifice
those who stand in harm’s way on our behalf
thankful too for those on guard, for all who serve us
whether in foreign fields or in fire houses down the street
For you oh God, for your presence and your love
for your grounding and your grace
we give you thanks
For all we are and all we have are gifts from you
We humbly pause, and give you thanks.
November 27, 2008
Thanksgiving Day
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 37,780+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Little Kindnesses
Helping others
choosing, acting when we can
little kindnesses, things we can do
offering assistance, comfort
a little bit more, to ease their way
these are the things, the tests,
the marks in the book of life,
that on which we will be judged
not on changing the world,
nothing so overwhelming
little kindnesses,
that each of us can do
this is the measure
the manifestations of our faith
November 27, 2008 and November 19, 2008
Matthew 25:31-46
choosing, acting when we can
little kindnesses, things we can do
offering assistance, comfort
a little bit more, to ease their way
these are the things, the tests,
the marks in the book of life,
that on which we will be judged
not on changing the world,
nothing so overwhelming
little kindnesses,
that each of us can do
this is the measure
the manifestations of our faith
November 27, 2008 and November 19, 2008
Matthew 25:31-46
Wholesome Grain - revised
That we would be such,
gathered in, in the garner forever
our chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
word out changed to our in 3rd row
gathered in, in the garner forever
our chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
word out changed to our in 3rd row
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 31,520+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Embers, Burning Together
Alone dying, the heat, the light failing
embers, burning together, gathering, sharing
building on the heat, the passion, the belief, the faith
one to another, in community, together
glowing, a beacon, a message of love
sending forth, reaching outward
burning together those who could not alone
November 23, 2008
embers, burning together, gathering, sharing
building on the heat, the passion, the belief, the faith
one to another, in community, together
glowing, a beacon, a message of love
sending forth, reaching outward
burning together those who could not alone
November 23, 2008
Grain Spoiled
Like the manna, enough provided, all he would need
his daily bread, relying on the Lord
Grain spoiled, in the silos, the garners
useless grain, at the end of his days
Gathered in and unshared, more than his daily needs
Spoiled, lost, when he was called home
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
his daily bread, relying on the Lord
Grain spoiled, in the silos, the garners
useless grain, at the end of his days
Gathered in and unshared, more than his daily needs
Spoiled, lost, when he was called home
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Storing Up When We Should Give
A foolish man, so the lectionary calls the rich man
his new silos, full, bursting; but empty
his life for the work, for storing up, preparing only
for the rest of this life, his time on this mortal coil
When the master calls, he is empty, unprepared
for his appointment with destiny
Storing up, when he should give
calling on man when God is there
when God would provide
all he, all we need
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,840+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
his new silos, full, bursting; but empty
his life for the work, for storing up, preparing only
for the rest of this life, his time on this mortal coil
When the master calls, he is empty, unprepared
for his appointment with destiny
Storing up, when he should give
calling on man when God is there
when God would provide
all he, all we need
November 23, 2008
Luke 12:13-21 and sermon,
“The Human Need to Give”,
by the Reverend Huntley Halvorson,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,840+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Wholesome Grain
That we would be such,
gathered in, in the garner forever
out chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
gathered in, in the garner forever
out chaff cast off, into the fire
our true selves revealed,
illumined, transformed
shining, bright light
a harvest for the master
into his garner gathered
we the treasure,
forever in his silos,
gathered for his purpose
November 23, 2008
Opening hymn, “Come, Ye Thankful People Come”,
United Methodist Hymnal, #694
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,850+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Sheep, in His Pasture
Living now, sheep, in His pasture
within easy reach, the living,
tender care, of the shepherd
kept from harm, safe, watching
over us, in our daily struggle
Safe, secure, within His courts, His pasture
living as His sheep, knowing His calling,
His voice, from within us, His spirit
stirring within us, calling on the shepherd
safe in his pasture, evermore
November 23, 2008
Psalm 100 and Displines book for 11/23/08
within easy reach, the living,
tender care, of the shepherd
kept from harm, safe, watching
over us, in our daily struggle
Safe, secure, within His courts, His pasture
living as His sheep, knowing His calling,
His voice, from within us, His spirit
stirring within us, calling on the shepherd
safe in his pasture, evermore
November 23, 2008
Psalm 100 and Displines book for 11/23/08
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Make It Clear
Make it clear, plain
share the vision you are given
speak so they will hear
will understand
God is Love!
Christ is the way!
He rose; He lives!
Now, in heaven, living
God gave his son, his only son
Died for us, our debt to pay
Paid in full; we must just accept
this free gift of the creator.
November 19, 2008
Habakkuk 2:2
share the vision you are given
speak so they will hear
will understand
God is Love!
Christ is the way!
He rose; He lives!
Now, in heaven, living
God gave his son, his only son
Died for us, our debt to pay
Paid in full; we must just accept
this free gift of the creator.
November 19, 2008
Habakkuk 2:2
Monday, November 17, 2008
Fireproof
My wife and I went and saw Fireproof tonight, fireproofthemovie.
It came out 9/26/08. If you want to know where it is playing, go here fireproofthemovieblog
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is strong, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is struggling, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to be a true friend, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to witness to others, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who believes they know what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders that God's love feels like, start by going to Fireproof.
If you want to Fireproof your marriage, start here fireproofmymarriage or somewhere else; but start.
I love you Ruth!
It came out 9/26/08. If you want to know where it is playing, go here fireproofthemovieblog
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is strong, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone whose marriage is struggling, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to be a true friend, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wants to know how to witness to others, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who believes they know what love is, go see Fireproof;
I would recommend to anyone who wonders that God's love feels like, start by going to Fireproof.
If you want to Fireproof your marriage, start here fireproofmymarriage or somewhere else; but start.
I love you Ruth!
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Out into the Street
Taking God’s message, his love
the fact, the truth of our one true God
out into the street, to the ends of the earth
to bring the good news to all who would listen
even to those who scoff, who doubt
letting them decide, letting them choose
being resolute, steady, with burning zeal
as of the Pentecost fire
bringing the creator, the savior
the judge for the coming end of time
leading all to God, where ever they may be
November 16, 2008
Call to Worship, and
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
along with Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
the fact, the truth of our one true God
out into the street, to the ends of the earth
to bring the good news to all who would listen
even to those who scoff, who doubt
letting them decide, letting them choose
being resolute, steady, with burning zeal
as of the Pentecost fire
bringing the creator, the savior
the judge for the coming end of time
leading all to God, where ever they may be
November 16, 2008
Call to Worship, and
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
along with Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
Up On a Pedestal
Sitting high, up on a pedestal
Perhaps a bit out of our reach, our grasp
beyond our understanding, our ken
that which we value, that which we worship
Our God, the creator, our savior
He must be held, valued, cherished
above all others, not one among many
on a pedestal not of stone, not of gold
not of human hands
on the pedestal,
the altar of our hearts
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Perhaps a bit out of our reach, our grasp
beyond our understanding, our ken
that which we value, that which we worship
Our God, the creator, our savior
He must be held, valued, cherished
above all others, not one among many
on a pedestal not of stone, not of gold
not of human hands
on the pedestal,
the altar of our hearts
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Upon a Pedestal
Placed upon a pedestal
that which we value,
our priority, our priorities in life
People or things, no matter
risking to be idolized, to become
our focus, our god
One true God, who made us, who knows us
who loves us enough, to sacrifice his son
to set the world on its axis
to reconcile himself to us
He alone is worthy
he alone is God
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
that which we value,
our priority, our priorities in life
People or things, no matter
risking to be idolized, to become
our focus, our god
One true God, who made us, who knows us
who loves us enough, to sacrifice his son
to set the world on its axis
to reconcile himself to us
He alone is worthy
he alone is God
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
An Unknown God
He preached, evangelized
telling the story to the people
everyone on the streets
in their temple, their marketplace of ideas
all that would listen, of the one unknown God
Our one almighty God
the creator of heaven, of earth
the savior of all mankind
Making known to all
the one unknown God
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
telling the story to the people
everyone on the streets
in their temple, their marketplace of ideas
all that would listen, of the one unknown God
Our one almighty God
the creator of heaven, of earth
the savior of all mankind
Making known to all
the one unknown God
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Idle Worship
With burning zeal, the fire of Pentecost
when the spirit first descended
landing on the apostles, giving them power
So must we be, each day, worshipping God
the one true God, focused, in awe,
bringing his love, his message, his hope to all
Dropping, shedding, letting go
of other priorities, lesser gods
Renewed, each day,
to hear the call of the creator
to praise his name
and do his will
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
when the spirit first descended
landing on the apostles, giving them power
So must we be, each day, worshipping God
the one true God, focused, in awe,
bringing his love, his message, his hope to all
Dropping, shedding, letting go
of other priorities, lesser gods
Renewed, each day,
to hear the call of the creator
to praise his name
and do his will
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Extremely Religious
He said that they were extremely religious
but what did that mean, with many gods,
many idols, all graven images,
statues, temples, sacred places
crafted by human hands
When all are equal,
one among many, no better, no worse
many gods, none special,
all vying, competing for attention,
for reverence
One God, alone, above all others
creator of all that is, all that was,
all that is to come
A God who came to earth,
suffered and died,
rising from the dead,
ready, able to judge
the living, the dead
The one focus, needing no statue,
no pedestal, no image by man
one and eternal
God of all
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
but what did that mean, with many gods,
many idols, all graven images,
statues, temples, sacred places
crafted by human hands
When all are equal,
one among many, no better, no worse
many gods, none special,
all vying, competing for attention,
for reverence
One God, alone, above all others
creator of all that is, all that was,
all that is to come
A God who came to earth,
suffered and died,
rising from the dead,
ready, able to judge
the living, the dead
The one focus, needing no statue,
no pedestal, no image by man
one and eternal
God of all
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
True Wisdom for the Wise
A new revelation, true wisdom
for the wise, the learned, the pious
Paul’s message of God,
of the savior, of his resurrection
explaining to them the nature of God
the singular, the one true God
knowledge, to topple the idols
to change their lives
to center on the creator
and the savior
the judge that is to come
revealed in his rising from the dead
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
for the wise, the learned, the pious
Paul’s message of God,
of the savior, of his resurrection
explaining to them the nature of God
the singular, the one true God
knowledge, to topple the idols
to change their lives
to center on the creator
and the savior
the judge that is to come
revealed in his rising from the dead
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
One, Not Among Many
A singular, actually the one
God, creator, maker of heaven, of earth
One, not one among many
competing idols, focuses, priorities
One true God, jealous, awesome
whose story, whose power, whose love
must be known, shared
out into the world
for the kingdom will not wait
his time is coming
and none should remain
in the dark
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
God, creator, maker of heaven, of earth
One, not one among many
competing idols, focuses, priorities
One true God, jealous, awesome
whose story, whose power, whose love
must be known, shared
out into the world
for the kingdom will not wait
his time is coming
and none should remain
in the dark
November 16, 2008
Exodus 20:1-6
Acts 17:16-34
and sermon, “Is it Idle or Idol Worship?”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
Yellow Remaining
Before the first snowfall
long after frost covering
layering the lawn, the gardens
Yellow remaining
newborn black-eyed Susan
growing in the front bed
flowers defying the date,
the ides of November past,
yellow remaining, amid
the browns, the grays of fall
hope remaining still
of the summer just gone,
the spring to come
after winter’s icy grasp
November 16, 2008
long after frost covering
layering the lawn, the gardens
Yellow remaining
newborn black-eyed Susan
growing in the front bed
flowers defying the date,
the ides of November past,
yellow remaining, amid
the browns, the grays of fall
hope remaining still
of the summer just gone,
the spring to come
after winter’s icy grasp
November 16, 2008
With Burning Zeal
Worshipping you with burning zeal
so is our prayer this morning
our collective prayer of praise
centering our hearts together
that we would be convicted,
transformed; steady minds,
burning zeal, doing your will
November 16, 2008
Call to Worship,
from the Worship Source Book,
Suncook United Methodist Church
so is our prayer this morning
our collective prayer of praise
centering our hearts together
that we would be convicted,
transformed; steady minds,
burning zeal, doing your will
November 16, 2008
Call to Worship,
from the Worship Source Book,
Suncook United Methodist Church
All He Gave for Us
All he gave, for us,
heavenly living, for a manger bed,
angels at his beck and call
for sheep, for the lowing cows
Servanthood, temptation,
the sweat of his brow
A yoke of sacrifice,
a path to death
Punished and scourged
for nothing he had done
taking the lashes, the thorns,
the cross we could not bear
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters
heavenly living, for a manger bed,
angels at his beck and call
for sheep, for the lowing cows
Servanthood, temptation,
the sweat of his brow
A yoke of sacrifice,
a path to death
Punished and scourged
for nothing he had done
taking the lashes, the thorns,
the cross we could not bear
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters
Reminders of All He Gave for Us
The bread, the wine, the cross before us
on the altar, that cross, the stained glass
reminders, with the words of scripture
open too on his altar
reminders of all he gave us
His free will, his body, his all
giving to atone, to pay the price
not for his sin, but mine,
not for his trespasses,
but those of my own
not his debts,
but mine and mine alone
taken by him, washed clean
reminders I carry, images,
reminders of all he gave for me
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters
on the altar, that cross, the stained glass
reminders, with the words of scripture
open too on his altar
reminders of all he gave us
His free will, his body, his all
giving to atone, to pay the price
not for his sin, but mine,
not for his trespasses,
but those of my own
not his debts,
but mine and mine alone
taken by him, washed clean
reminders I carry, images,
reminders of all he gave for me
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters
The Cup of Sacrifice
The bitter cup,
more bitter than hemlock,
the cup of sacrifice
lifted to his lips,
an act of obedience
of his free will,
given over to the master
Drinking from the cup,
submitting to the suffering,
to the torture, to the death
humiliating, on the cross
Offering himself, his all
so that we might be saved
that we might find salvation
that we may join him in heaven
and see the master face to face
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters and rereading the poem itself
more bitter than hemlock,
the cup of sacrifice
lifted to his lips,
an act of obedience
of his free will,
given over to the master
Drinking from the cup,
submitting to the suffering,
to the torture, to the death
humiliating, on the cross
Offering himself, his all
so that we might be saved
that we might find salvation
that we may join him in heaven
and see the master face to face
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters and rereading the poem itself
The Cup of Servanthood
Lifting his cup, the cup of servanthood
taking on his yoke, our cross
lifting him up, carrying his cross with him
taking on his work, his ministry
We are to be the slaves of the master
to spread the message, the invitation
the call to the banquet feast
open to all, all in the streets,
to the ends of the earth
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters and rereading the poem itself
and reading of Matthew 22:1-10 today
taking on his yoke, our cross
lifting him up, carrying his cross with him
taking on his work, his ministry
We are to be the slaves of the master
to spread the message, the invitation
the call to the banquet feast
open to all, all in the streets,
to the ends of the earth
November 16, 2008
based on comments to earlier poem,
“A Loving Servant”, posted to
FaithWriters and rereading the poem itself
and reading of Matthew 22:1-10 today
Guests of the King
We are all invited
to be guests of the king
to enter into the banquet hall
for the wedding of the son
We are all invited,
by the slaves of the king
to don our robe and enter in
From the streets we are called
no one is left out
to become guests of the king
and slaves to God
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
to be guests of the king
to enter into the banquet hall
for the wedding of the son
We are all invited,
by the slaves of the king
to don our robe and enter in
From the streets we are called
no one is left out
to become guests of the king
and slaves to God
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
Guests at the Banquet
Slaves, guests of the king
guests at the royal banquet
the wedding feast of the son
Our names not found
on the original guest list
invited, nonetheless, by the king
to come to the banquet
to share in the bounty
the offerings of the king
Like the select, the chosen
those with the engraved invitations
while we were yet slaves
we were invited in
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
guests at the royal banquet
the wedding feast of the son
Our names not found
on the original guest list
invited, nonetheless, by the king
to come to the banquet
to share in the bounty
the offerings of the king
Like the select, the chosen
those with the engraved invitations
while we were yet slaves
we were invited in
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
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 24,200+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry
Where You Live.
Slaves to God
You and me, his messengers,
his servants, slaves to God
bringing his invitation
that the feast is ready
the wedding about to begin
while guests we are
accepting the invitation
we now offer to others
that same wondrous gift
to be guests of the king,
to become slaves to God
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
his servants, slaves to God
bringing his invitation
that the feast is ready
the wedding about to begin
while guests we are
accepting the invitation
we now offer to others
that same wondrous gift
to be guests of the king,
to become slaves to God
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
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 31,500+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Slaves
Not merely servants,
slaves to the king
messengers of his invitation
to the banquet prepared
Offering welcome to all
into his house
to the wedding feast of the son
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
slaves to the king
messengers of his invitation
to the banquet prepared
Offering welcome to all
into his house
to the wedding feast of the son
November 16, 2008
Matthew 22:1-14
Matthew 22:1-10
and Upper Room devotional for 11/16/2008
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=11&day=16&year=2008
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 33,070+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Sunday, November 09, 2008
The Same Spirit
The same God, the same Savior, the same Spirit
descending on the Christ, on the apostles, on Cornelius
on all believers, down through the pages of time
We are one in that Spirit, one in the love of God,
one in the life, the death, the sacrifice of Christ
and one in the truth of the resurrection,
the hope of the coming age yet to come
All are members of God’s family,
all brothers, sisters with Christ
All we have to do is to answer,
to accept his gift of love
His yoke is easy, his road paved in gold
our cross is light, and our future is assured
No rules, no test, the process, can keep us from his grace
so enter his courts with thanksgiving
all believers, all in one place
November 9, 2008
Acts 15:1-19 and
sermon, “We Are One”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
and Acts 10:34-35, Acts 10:1-48
and sermon of October 26, 2008
‘A Message from God:
“Don’t Fence Me In”’
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
and Acts 10:1-16 and sermon of October 19, 2008,
“Daring, First, and Different”
by Eric Feustel
Suncook United Methodist Church
descending on the Christ, on the apostles, on Cornelius
on all believers, down through the pages of time
We are one in that Spirit, one in the love of God,
one in the life, the death, the sacrifice of Christ
and one in the truth of the resurrection,
the hope of the coming age yet to come
All are members of God’s family,
all brothers, sisters with Christ
All we have to do is to answer,
to accept his gift of love
His yoke is easy, his road paved in gold
our cross is light, and our future is assured
No rules, no test, the process, can keep us from his grace
so enter his courts with thanksgiving
all believers, all in one place
November 9, 2008
Acts 15:1-19 and
sermon, “We Are One”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
and Acts 10:34-35, Acts 10:1-48
and sermon of October 26, 2008
‘A Message from God:
“Don’t Fence Me In”’
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
and Acts 10:1-16 and sermon of October 19, 2008,
“Daring, First, and Different”
by Eric Feustel
Suncook United Methodist Church
Trouble Among the Saved
There was trouble among the saved
that needed a meeting to resolve
they gathered together to witness
to argue and ponder his call
They told of the miracles,
the great signs of wonder and might
The offered their own ministries
the work that gave them great sight
In conference and in prayer
they sought God’s message to share
in the end they heard
that all are worthy of his care
Together we continue their story
the work of his holy hands
and together we spread his message
to all that will listen, wherever their lands
November 9, 2008
Acts 15:1-19 and
sermon, “We Are One”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
that needed a meeting to resolve
they gathered together to witness
to argue and ponder his call
They told of the miracles,
the great signs of wonder and might
The offered their own ministries
the work that gave them great sight
In conference and in prayer
they sought God’s message to share
in the end they heard
that all are worthy of his care
Together we continue their story
the work of his holy hands
and together we spread his message
to all that will listen, wherever their lands
November 9, 2008
Acts 15:1-19 and
sermon, “We Are One”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss,
Suncook United Methodist Church
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