Like a hurricane, coming straight for them
a thundering rush of wind, piercing the night
so was the entrance of the Spirit
bringing power for the disciples
to dwell in each beating heart
flames of fire alighting
landing on each one
bringing for them and for us
the birth of the church
emboldening these timid souls
for acts of power, of the message of love
lived out by these men and women
clustered in fear together
now speaking in languages they did not know
spreading the message of Christ
like a brushfire
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Tools for the Mission
Commissioned by the Savior
to be his ambassadors, his emissaries
his missionaries in the world
Equipped for the work
tools for the mission
the words of the scripture
the lessons of his life
the power of the Spirit
dwelling deep within our hearts
guiding us, counseling
infusing us with power
even when words will not come
speaking for us, from the needs of our hearts
lifting our concerns up to God
giving us rest, peace
when we listen for his voice
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
to be his ambassadors, his emissaries
his missionaries in the world
Equipped for the work
tools for the mission
the words of the scripture
the lessons of his life
the power of the Spirit
dwelling deep within our hearts
guiding us, counseling
infusing us with power
even when words will not come
speaking for us, from the needs of our hearts
lifting our concerns up to God
giving us rest, peace
when we listen for his voice
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Equipped for the Task
The timid disciples, gathered in a room
hiding in Jerusalem, in their hidden place
the mysteries revealed, shared by the risen Lord
but still not yet ready, none of them
still the disciples who ran, who doubted
who denied the Christ, hiding
Equipped for the task, the commissioning
Spirit of God, descending, filling them
on fire with the words of the gospel
freshly sprung, pouring forth
in words understandable
with confidence, vision
Speaking in languages they, we,
do not know, reaching others
where they are
equipped fully
for the work of our king
the work we are to further
during our time on this earth
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
hiding in Jerusalem, in their hidden place
the mysteries revealed, shared by the risen Lord
but still not yet ready, none of them
still the disciples who ran, who doubted
who denied the Christ, hiding
Equipped for the task, the commissioning
Spirit of God, descending, filling them
on fire with the words of the gospel
freshly sprung, pouring forth
in words understandable
with confidence, vision
Speaking in languages they, we,
do not know, reaching others
where they are
equipped fully
for the work of our king
the work we are to further
during our time on this earth
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Our Sojourn through this World
Praying to the Spirit
for guidance, for illumination
for the Spirit’s presence with us
choosing the word, sojourn,
a brief stay in a place, a passage,
a time in this world.
Praying to our God, the Spirit
for our time away from home,
our travel through this world
spiritual beings, in human flesh
filled with the Spirit
leading us home
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
for guidance, for illumination
for the Spirit’s presence with us
choosing the word, sojourn,
a brief stay in a place, a passage,
a time in this world.
Praying to our God, the Spirit
for our time away from home,
our travel through this world
spiritual beings, in human flesh
filled with the Spirit
leading us home
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
in His footsteps
our prayer, in giving of our resources
asking for wisdom, for guidance on where
the monies should be spent; but going beyond
praying too that we would follow
in His footsteps, so real, so urgent
on a day of remembrance
on the awakening of the church
birthing of the commissioning
empowering of the timid disciples
to go and reach all
to the ends of the earth
Praying in His name, today
that we too would be his emissaries
that we would go as he was sent
as they were sent before us
going in His name
following in His footsteps
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
on the Prayer of Dedication
“Sustainer, Living God, Giver of all that is good, we thank
you for all that you have done, all that you are doing, and all
that is yet to be done in our lives. You have so richly
blessed our lives and we praise Your Holy name. We offer
up to you these tithes and offerings. Guide us in the way
you would have us use them so that we may reach out to
those in need as our Savior Jesus Christ did so long ago.
May we follow in His footsteps as His ambassadors to the
world. May our offering be pleasing in your sight. And it is
in His strong name we pray.
Amen”
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
asking for wisdom, for guidance on where
the monies should be spent; but going beyond
praying too that we would follow
in His footsteps, so real, so urgent
on a day of remembrance
on the awakening of the church
birthing of the commissioning
empowering of the timid disciples
to go and reach all
to the ends of the earth
Praying in His name, today
that we too would be his emissaries
that we would go as he was sent
as they were sent before us
going in His name
following in His footsteps
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
on the Prayer of Dedication
“Sustainer, Living God, Giver of all that is good, we thank
you for all that you have done, all that you are doing, and all
that is yet to be done in our lives. You have so richly
blessed our lives and we praise Your Holy name. We offer
up to you these tithes and offerings. Guide us in the way
you would have us use them so that we may reach out to
those in need as our Savior Jesus Christ did so long ago.
May we follow in His footsteps as His ambassadors to the
world. May our offering be pleasing in your sight. And it is
in His strong name we pray.
Amen”
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Open Hearts, to Your Spirit
Come upon us
Holy Spirit of God
fall upon us
wellspring of our hearts
bubble up from within us
the seed planted long ago
our baptism, even at our conception
you the creator, the maker of all things
open our hearts, oh Spirit come
empower us to do your will
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Holy Spirit of God
fall upon us
wellspring of our hearts
bubble up from within us
the seed planted long ago
our baptism, even at our conception
you the creator, the maker of all things
open our hearts, oh Spirit come
empower us to do your will
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
In Native Tongues
The book, the story opened
made accessible, reachable
in native tongues, in words understood
the power of Pentecost
meeting each where they were
spreading God’s love
His message of reconciliation
the disciples commissioned
empowered, evangelists now
in each one’s native tongue
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
made accessible, reachable
in native tongues, in words understood
the power of Pentecost
meeting each where they were
spreading God’s love
His message of reconciliation
the disciples commissioned
empowered, evangelists now
in each one’s native tongue
May 31, 2009
Call to Worship: Psalm 104:31-33 (NIV)
Unison Prayer,
“Almighty God, Giver of knowledge and might, we come
before your throne to worship You in Spirit and truth. We
pray that your Spirit of illumination would fall upon us
gathered here today so that we may hear your still small
voice, guiding us as we sojourn through this world. May we
feel Your presence with us here today. Come Spirit, fill our
hearts this day. Amen”
Epistle Reading: Romans 8:26-27 (New King James Version)
children’s time message
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Gospel Reading: Acts 2:1-21 (New Living Translation)
and sermon, “A Fire Within!”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 31, 2009
Pentecost Sunday
and
Acts 2:1-11
Matthew 28:19
Upper Room daily devotional for 5/31/09
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=31&year=2009
and
Acts 2:1-21
Alive Now for 5/31/09
and
Acts 2:12-21
Upper Room Disciplines 2009 for 5/31/09
and
1 Corinthians 3:5-9
and
sign in front of church
“Are You
Smoldering?
Come in and
Get All Fired Up!”
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Email 5/27/09 from the National Religious Campaign Against Torture
Dear NRCAT Supporter:
NRCAT is sponsoring a major event led by seven heads of faith groups and other senior religious leaders in front of the White House at noon on Thursday, June 11, to urge President Obama to create a Commission of Inquiry to investigate U.S torture practices since 9/11. Our goal is to have 1,000 people of faith join us. We need your help make that happen.
In his speech on Guantanamo and torture last week, the President reiterated his opposition to appointing such a commission. We are disappointed and believe he is wrong. By making our position visible, we seek to change his mind.
Discovering the truth makes us free, holds people accountable, and can bring healing and transformation. The results of the investigation will also make it possible for the Congress to put the needed safeguards in place to assure that U.S.-sponsored torture never takes place again.
The list of confirmed senior national religious leaders who will provide leadership during the witness at the White House on June 11, other details about the event and promotional fliers are all available here.
This event has the potential for having a significant impact as we advocate for a Commission of Inquiry. With the ongoing public debate, there may be no better or more compelling time than now to make our voices heard. Here are several ways you can help make the June 11 event a success:
Join us at the White House for this religious witness. We know folks from as far away as Los Angeles who are traveling to stand with us on that day.
Organize a carpool or van from your congregation to come to DC for June 11.
Share the information with family, friends, clergy and congregations in the DC region, encouraging them to distribute the event flier and to be present for this witness.
Organize a local event on June 11 to give local visibility to this witness.
Connect all your Torture Awareness Month activities with this national witness by informing members of the congregation, participants in your local event, and reporters that your activities are part of a national effort that includes the June 11 witness at the White House.
Continue to check here for more information and more ideas about the June 11 event.
If your congregation has an anti-torture banner, bring it with you to the event. If you are unable to come, and your congregation has a customized banner (e.g. "First Presbyterian Church says torture is wrong"), send it to the NRCAT office, and we will find someone to hold your banner during the event.
We hope that you and your congregation are also preparing for Torture Awareness Month activities. (Resources for worship, study, outreach, advocacy and action are all available here.) Please let us know about your plans by responding to this brief survey.
Thank you for all you have done to end U.S.-sponsored torture.
Sincerely,
Linda Gustitus, President
Rich Killmer, Executive Director
You have received this message because you endorsed the "Torture is a Moral Issue" statement of the National Religious Campaign Against Torture OR you signed up to receive more information from NRCAT.
If you no longer wish to receive emails from us, please click here to unsubscribe from this mailing list.
Questions? Please email campaign@nrcat.org
National Religious Campaign Against Torture: www.tortureisamoralissue.org
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 19,910+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
NRCAT is sponsoring a major event led by seven heads of faith groups and other senior religious leaders in front of the White House at noon on Thursday, June 11, to urge President Obama to create a Commission of Inquiry to investigate U.S torture practices since 9/11. Our goal is to have 1,000 people of faith join us. We need your help make that happen.
In his speech on Guantanamo and torture last week, the President reiterated his opposition to appointing such a commission. We are disappointed and believe he is wrong. By making our position visible, we seek to change his mind.
Discovering the truth makes us free, holds people accountable, and can bring healing and transformation. The results of the investigation will also make it possible for the Congress to put the needed safeguards in place to assure that U.S.-sponsored torture never takes place again.
The list of confirmed senior national religious leaders who will provide leadership during the witness at the White House on June 11, other details about the event and promotional fliers are all available here.
This event has the potential for having a significant impact as we advocate for a Commission of Inquiry. With the ongoing public debate, there may be no better or more compelling time than now to make our voices heard. Here are several ways you can help make the June 11 event a success:
Join us at the White House for this religious witness. We know folks from as far away as Los Angeles who are traveling to stand with us on that day.
Organize a carpool or van from your congregation to come to DC for June 11.
Share the information with family, friends, clergy and congregations in the DC region, encouraging them to distribute the event flier and to be present for this witness.
Organize a local event on June 11 to give local visibility to this witness.
Connect all your Torture Awareness Month activities with this national witness by informing members of the congregation, participants in your local event, and reporters that your activities are part of a national effort that includes the June 11 witness at the White House.
Continue to check here for more information and more ideas about the June 11 event.
If your congregation has an anti-torture banner, bring it with you to the event. If you are unable to come, and your congregation has a customized banner (e.g. "First Presbyterian Church says torture is wrong"), send it to the NRCAT office, and we will find someone to hold your banner during the event.
We hope that you and your congregation are also preparing for Torture Awareness Month activities. (Resources for worship, study, outreach, advocacy and action are all available here.) Please let us know about your plans by responding to this brief survey.
Thank you for all you have done to end U.S.-sponsored torture.
Sincerely,
Linda Gustitus, President
Rich Killmer, Executive Director
You have received this message because you endorsed the "Torture is a Moral Issue" statement of the National Religious Campaign Against Torture OR you signed up to receive more information from NRCAT.
If you no longer wish to receive emails from us, please click here to unsubscribe from this mailing list.
Questions? Please email campaign@nrcat.org
National Religious Campaign Against Torture: www.tortureisamoralissue.org
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 19,910+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Email from Bill Mefford, General Board of Church and Society, United Methodist Church 05/31/09
Add Your Name and Let Your Voice Be Heard.
Dear Raymond,
We've had over 1500 people add their name to our statement of faith The Truth Will Set You Free. Please take this opportunity to add your name to the petition.
Jim Winkler, General Secretary for GBCS, recently commented "I cannot conceive in my wildest dreams of Jesus Christ giving any blessing to torture." We need people of faith to say "No!" to torture by urging the U.S. Congress and Obama Administration to support an commission of inquiry into torture. A Religious Public Witness - June 11th.
The National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT) is sponsoring a major religious public event on June 11 in front of the White House asking President Obama to create a Commission of Inquiry. At a NRCAT press conference on May 7th, Rabbi Brian Walt shared that "torture violates the fundamental teachings of [all] our traditions."
We must acknowledge our corporate sins that allowed torture to happen and move forward so The Truth Will Set Us Free!
Let the Light Shine and set us free from our tortured past.
Peace,
Bill Mefford
Director, Civil and Human Rights
We're on Facebook!
Join the United Methodists Do Not Torture group on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=6896929945.
Also, GBCS has a fan page! Join today at www.umc-gbcs.org/Facebook
The General Board of Church and Society
100 Maryland Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002202-488-5600
FAX 202-488-5619
Order Resources
www.umc-gbcs.org
Dear Raymond,
We've had over 1500 people add their name to our statement of faith The Truth Will Set You Free. Please take this opportunity to add your name to the petition.
Jim Winkler, General Secretary for GBCS, recently commented "I cannot conceive in my wildest dreams of Jesus Christ giving any blessing to torture." We need people of faith to say "No!" to torture by urging the U.S. Congress and Obama Administration to support an commission of inquiry into torture. A Religious Public Witness - June 11th.
The National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT) is sponsoring a major religious public event on June 11 in front of the White House asking President Obama to create a Commission of Inquiry. At a NRCAT press conference on May 7th, Rabbi Brian Walt shared that "torture violates the fundamental teachings of [all] our traditions."
We must acknowledge our corporate sins that allowed torture to happen and move forward so The Truth Will Set Us Free!
Let the Light Shine and set us free from our tortured past.
Peace,
Bill Mefford
Director, Civil and Human Rights
We're on Facebook!
Join the United Methodists Do Not Torture group on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=6896929945.
Also, GBCS has a fan page! Join today at www.umc-gbcs.org/Facebook
The General Board of Church and Society
100 Maryland Avenue, NE
Washington, DC 20002202-488-5600
FAX 202-488-5619
Order Resources
www.umc-gbcs.org
Friday, May 29, 2009
His Unknown Youth
We are never really told
the story of his unknown youth
most of his life a mystery
Called to the water
to the Jordan, to John
cleansed and commissioned
before the days of trial alone.
Never told of his life
the babe with the gifts
a fugitive fleeing into Egypt
the youngster in the temple
staying behind in His father’s house
All that is known of most of his life,
thirty years gone.
Only important, the time in ministry
after the water, the dove
healing, teaching,
all leading to the cross.
May 29, 2009
title May 23, 2009
about the unknown childhood and adulthood
of Jesus Christ, until he was 30 years old
and began his 3-year ministry
the story of his unknown youth
most of his life a mystery
Called to the water
to the Jordan, to John
cleansed and commissioned
before the days of trial alone.
Never told of his life
the babe with the gifts
a fugitive fleeing into Egypt
the youngster in the temple
staying behind in His father’s house
All that is known of most of his life,
thirty years gone.
Only important, the time in ministry
after the water, the dove
healing, teaching,
all leading to the cross.
May 29, 2009
title May 23, 2009
about the unknown childhood and adulthood
of Jesus Christ, until he was 30 years old
and began his 3-year ministry
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 33,720+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Inspired Differently
Human hearts, urged to share
touched, inspired differently.
Different speakers, these writers
witnesses, seeing the world, his life
subtle variations on the same scenes
perspectives of these men
coloring the way they were inspired
by God, to write His story.
To prove his identity, to show his humanity
to urge us to believe, to follow His example
the Messiah for the Jews, God’s son,
the hope for all mankind,
to the ends of the earth and for all time.
These inspired words of God
a wonderful living testimony
shared by different voices.
May 29, 2009
Gospel of Matthew
Gospel of Mark
Gospel of Luke
Gospel of John
touched, inspired differently.
Different speakers, these writers
witnesses, seeing the world, his life
subtle variations on the same scenes
perspectives of these men
coloring the way they were inspired
by God, to write His story.
To prove his identity, to show his humanity
to urge us to believe, to follow His example
the Messiah for the Jews, God’s son,
the hope for all mankind,
to the ends of the earth and for all time.
These inspired words of God
a wonderful living testimony
shared by different voices.
May 29, 2009
Gospel of Matthew
Gospel of Mark
Gospel of Luke
Gospel of John
A Shining Example
Tangible, clear, authentic
a shining example of God’s love
in life, the story of the Christ
His brief ministry paving the way
a well of living water, the legacy
His life poured out
a life cut short, part of God’s plan
the submission of his own will
taking the cup of sacrifice
its taste on his lips
Teaching the disciples
concrete stories, his parables
and the days of his life
showing us all how to live
humble servanthood
toward our neighbors
and before our God.
May 29, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
May 28, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
a shining example of God’s love
in life, the story of the Christ
His brief ministry paving the way
a well of living water, the legacy
His life poured out
a life cut short, part of God’s plan
the submission of his own will
taking the cup of sacrifice
its taste on his lips
Teaching the disciples
concrete stories, his parables
and the days of his life
showing us all how to live
humble servanthood
toward our neighbors
and before our God.
May 29, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
May 28, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
The Parable of His Life
Bread and wine, his body and his blood
A story of God’s love,
the parable of his life.
For God so loved the world,
words unfathomable, beyond comprehension,
the majesty of God, creator
maker of all, the potter.
But, more to the story.
He loved the world so much
as a father, mother
sending his son, to be born humble, human
into this world
A man, a carpenter’s son
washed clean in the Jordan
A small itinerant ministry
living off kindnesses
no home, no palace, no mansion
the parable of his life, told
so we may see, hear, touch;
so we may believe.
May 29, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
May 28, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
A story of God’s love,
the parable of his life.
For God so loved the world,
words unfathomable, beyond comprehension,
the majesty of God, creator
maker of all, the potter.
But, more to the story.
He loved the world so much
as a father, mother
sending his son, to be born humble, human
into this world
A man, a carpenter’s son
washed clean in the Jordan
A small itinerant ministry
living off kindnesses
no home, no palace, no mansion
the parable of his life, told
so we may see, hear, touch;
so we may believe.
May 29, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
May 28, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
The Parable of Christ
In His life, his human life
the parable of Christ
As much as any story he told
the days of his life
a parable for our instruction
teaching us not with the words of parables
instead with the words,
the good news of his life
The mystery of God
conveyed in simple, human ways
A teen mother, a carpenter
a life cut short, judged and sentenced
His days on the earth, preaching, healing
offering his life, a sacrifice for our sins
A parable of Christ, the word made flesh;
human God, so we may understand
May 29, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
May 28, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
the parable of Christ
As much as any story he told
the days of his life
a parable for our instruction
teaching us not with the words of parables
instead with the words,
the good news of his life
The mystery of God
conveyed in simple, human ways
A teen mother, a carpenter
a life cut short, judged and sentenced
His days on the earth, preaching, healing
offering his life, a sacrifice for our sins
A parable of Christ, the word made flesh;
human God, so we may understand
May 29, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
May 28, 2009
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
Thursday, May 28, 2009
As Real as You and Me
God’s love, the mission of Christ
sharing the love of the father
as real today as then
as real, as approachable,
as you and me
We are the witnesses, the ones crying
crying out in the wilderness;
but we are the examples, the testimony
the evidence, with our lives
God’s love living in the world
through the lives, the actions
of you and me
Being Christ now in the world
showing our father’s love in the way we live
in the things we say and the things we do
projecting the good news
to the ends of the earth
authentic, tangible, real
as real as you and me
May 28, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
sharing the love of the father
as real today as then
as real, as approachable,
as you and me
We are the witnesses, the ones crying
crying out in the wilderness;
but we are the examples, the testimony
the evidence, with our lives
God’s love living in the world
through the lives, the actions
of you and me
Being Christ now in the world
showing our father’s love in the way we live
in the things we say and the things we do
projecting the good news
to the ends of the earth
authentic, tangible, real
as real as you and me
May 28, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
In a Tangible Way
God’s love, living among us
real, tangible, Christ, God
incarnate, a parable in common terms
God revealed in simple human form
in a life lived for others, servanthood
the heavenly incomprehensible
made understandable, reachable
to all of us, touching our senses,
our imagination, God’s love
shared in a very tangible way.
May 28, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
real, tangible, Christ, God
incarnate, a parable in common terms
God revealed in simple human form
in a life lived for others, servanthood
the heavenly incomprehensible
made understandable, reachable
to all of us, touching our senses,
our imagination, God’s love
shared in a very tangible way.
May 28, 2009
Mark 1:9-11
John 4:13-14
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/Devotional/default.asp?month=5&day=28&year=2009
Slow Rain
Just back from lunch with my wife.
Getting back to work on a very rainy day.
the sound of it off the roof,
through the closed window beside me
Slow rain, like it is supposed to be
Spring in this area, no torrent,
not crack of lightening, thunder
soft, gently slow rain, flowers and shrubs
enjoying the feeding, especially the blooms
the rhododendron, alive, vivid color
pink, rose-like color, saturated, quite literally
all of 48 degrees, Fahrenheit, midday
Slow rain, low clouds
quite in the yard, drizzle of rain
falling, falling, down
May 28, 2009
Getting back to work on a very rainy day.
the sound of it off the roof,
through the closed window beside me
Slow rain, like it is supposed to be
Spring in this area, no torrent,
not crack of lightening, thunder
soft, gently slow rain, flowers and shrubs
enjoying the feeding, especially the blooms
the rhododendron, alive, vivid color
pink, rose-like color, saturated, quite literally
all of 48 degrees, Fahrenheit, midday
Slow rain, low clouds
quite in the yard, drizzle of rain
falling, falling, down
May 28, 2009
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at
Ray Foss for
usage. See all 21,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Faith in Action - June is Torture Awareness Month
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=frLJK2PKLqF&b=5190989&ct=6941593
United Methodist Church - Faith in Action - May 25, 2009 - includes my poem, "Totally Wrong"
One of my poems, "Totally Wrong", was selected to be put in the United Methodist Faith in Action newsletter for May 25, 2009 -
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=frLJK2PKLqF&b=5190989&ct=7034263
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=frLJK2PKLqF&b=5190989&ct=7034263
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at
Ray Foss for
usage. See all 21,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Poetry Where You Live - now a BOOK!!!!!!!
My 1st book of poetry, Poetry Where You Live, is now available at http://www2.xlibris.com/bookstore/bookdisplay.aspx?bookid=56943. If you like what you see here, please consider buying a copy.
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at
Ray Foss for
usage. See all 21,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
A Hidden Bloom
The rich, full, round rhododendron
bloom hidden, nestled
snug behind the yew, full green
deep forest, radiant chartreuse
where the growing edges are
the pink-purple bloom
hidden below the porch
found only by the bumblebees
drawn by its nectar, by its calling
May 26, 2009,
seen and named by Ruth, May 25, 2009,
knowing it would soon be a poem
bloom hidden, nestled
snug behind the yew, full green
deep forest, radiant chartreuse
where the growing edges are
the pink-purple bloom
hidden below the porch
found only by the bumblebees
drawn by its nectar, by its calling
May 26, 2009,
seen and named by Ruth, May 25, 2009,
knowing it would soon be a poem
Monday, May 25, 2009
Big Plans
through the gifts, given by God
big plans for our lives
the little mustard seed
more than enough
mighty trees come from these
so to the little seeds
the gifts planted in us
mighty deeds can come from these
in our lives, and more
in the lives we touch
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
big plans for our lives
the little mustard seed
more than enough
mighty trees come from these
so to the little seeds
the gifts planted in us
mighty deeds can come from these
in our lives, and more
in the lives we touch
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
Gifts through the workings of his power
gifts he received, we each receive
through the workings of his power
through the loving grace of God, alone
we receive gifts of the spirit
a vessel made worthy, molded
by the hands of the potter
filled with the libation of the spirit
the example set by our brother, our savior
to pour out the good news, the holy message
of God’s limitless love, his pursuing us
his desire for communion and fellowship
a relationship with each of us
made whole by the love of the father
the sacrifice of the son
and the indwelling of the spirit
calling us back to Him
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
through the workings of his power
through the loving grace of God, alone
we receive gifts of the spirit
a vessel made worthy, molded
by the hands of the potter
filled with the libation of the spirit
the example set by our brother, our savior
to pour out the good news, the holy message
of God’s limitless love, his pursuing us
his desire for communion and fellowship
a relationship with each of us
made whole by the love of the father
the sacrifice of the son
and the indwelling of the spirit
calling us back to Him
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
Boldness before His Presence
Not like Job, calling our God
not to question; but to approach
his heavenly throne
a boldness of the saving we share
the loving reconciliation
the gift of grace which allows us
to come face to face with God
Boldly, as the apostle wrote,
so long ago, to the church in Ephesus
to go into God’s presence
with reverence and with confidence
because of the sacrifice of Christ
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
not to question; but to approach
his heavenly throne
a boldness of the saving we share
the loving reconciliation
the gift of grace which allows us
to come face to face with God
Boldly, as the apostle wrote,
so long ago, to the church in Ephesus
to go into God’s presence
with reverence and with confidence
because of the sacrifice of Christ
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
A Village Church
Our church, a village church
nestled in the heart, the center
the little place in the village
known by the mustard seeds
the little acts, simple kindnesses
offering a hand or an ear
prayers, a place of worship
a meal, a place to gather
little mustard seeds of love
planted in our neighbors’ hearts
one little act of love at a time
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
http://www2.xlibris.com/bookstore/bookdisplay.aspx?bookid=56943
nestled in the heart, the center
the little place in the village
known by the mustard seeds
the little acts, simple kindnesses
offering a hand or an ear
prayers, a place of worship
a meal, a place to gather
little mustard seeds of love
planted in our neighbors’ hearts
one little act of love at a time
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
http://www2.xlibris.com/bookstore/bookdisplay.aspx?bookid=56943
Each One a Mustard Seed
The size of the ministry
the work in the fields
the village church
alive in the giving, the sharing
sowing mustard seeds
tiny, little, seemingly minor
acts of kindness, of love
acting out our faith
the gifts of grace, of community
of love for our neighbors
in simple kindnesses, in sharing,
in serving where we can
in being there for another
being present, being open
being ourselves a mustard seed
a bit of Christ, of God
planted within another heart
seeds growing, in God’s time
a harvest of saints
each one a mustard seed
planted in the world
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
the work in the fields
the village church
alive in the giving, the sharing
sowing mustard seeds
tiny, little, seemingly minor
acts of kindness, of love
acting out our faith
the gifts of grace, of community
of love for our neighbors
in simple kindnesses, in sharing,
in serving where we can
in being there for another
being present, being open
being ourselves a mustard seed
a bit of Christ, of God
planted within another heart
seeds growing, in God’s time
a harvest of saints
each one a mustard seed
planted in the world
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at
Ray Foss for
usage. See all 21,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Planting Our Mustard Seeds
Each one of us, charged, commissioned
to sow the seeds of faith,
planting our mustard seeds
in the soil, in the soil of our hearts
in the hearts of those we meet
serving in the place where we are planted
in the vineyard, in the field, in the villages
in the cities where we live
to the ends of the earth
planting seeds of the harvest
tiny mustard seeds of love
of Christ, of God, grace upon grace
if we are true to our faith
planting mustard seeds
to mature and grow
for the harvest
in God’s time alone
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
to sow the seeds of faith,
planting our mustard seeds
in the soil, in the soil of our hearts
in the hearts of those we meet
serving in the place where we are planted
in the vineyard, in the field, in the villages
in the cities where we live
to the ends of the earth
planting seeds of the harvest
tiny mustard seeds of love
of Christ, of God, grace upon grace
if we are true to our faith
planting mustard seeds
to mature and grow
for the harvest
in God’s time alone
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
by
Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s
Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at
Ray Foss for
usage. See all 21,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
From a Tiny Seed
The parable, the story of the tiny mustard seed
from this small, small thing, greatness emerges
a tree, branches for shade, for shelter
beyond imagination, looking at it in the hand
a tiny seed, seemingly unable to do much
So are we to see the works of the spirit,
the little bits of witness, of ministry,
the small, seemingly insignificant acts
no one knows the fruit they will bear
what the tiny seeds of faith, of love
Unknown, what they will become
but spread them we must
in the name of the one who came
and is to come again
the one who taught this lesson so long ago
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
from this small, small thing, greatness emerges
a tree, branches for shade, for shelter
beyond imagination, looking at it in the hand
a tiny seed, seemingly unable to do much
So are we to see the works of the spirit,
the little bits of witness, of ministry,
the small, seemingly insignificant acts
no one knows the fruit they will bear
what the tiny seeds of faith, of love
Unknown, what they will become
but spread them we must
in the name of the one who came
and is to come again
the one who taught this lesson so long ago
May 24, 2009 and May 25, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
Burgundy Bouquets
nothing some much as burgundy bouquets
clusters of the rhododendrons
like the bows put on the paper plates
at the bridal showers
round ball of burgundy trumpets
eager for the bees
brilliant in the late afternoon sun
calling me and my camera
to linger and shoot
picture after picture
May 24, 2009
clusters of the rhododendrons
like the bows put on the paper plates
at the bridal showers
round ball of burgundy trumpets
eager for the bees
brilliant in the late afternoon sun
calling me and my camera
to linger and shoot
picture after picture
May 24, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
A Mustard Seed Planted
Small, little seeds, seeds planted
a mustard seed, planted with care
how it will grow
what fruits it will bear
unknown to the sower
to the one planting the seed
Not a mere agricultural tale;
a parable, a metaphor
of the ministry of the faithful
of the sharing of the good news of Christ
Planting in the soil of human hearts
to bear the fruit of either earthy will
of the rapturous beauty, the bounty
of lives suborned to God’s holy will
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
a mustard seed, planted with care
how it will grow
what fruits it will bear
unknown to the sower
to the one planting the seed
Not a mere agricultural tale;
a parable, a metaphor
of the ministry of the faithful
of the sharing of the good news of Christ
Planting in the soil of human hearts
to bear the fruit of either earthy will
of the rapturous beauty, the bounty
of lives suborned to God’s holy will
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
The Fertile Ground
Our children, the fertile ground
our lessons, our teachings
the mustard seeds
unpredicted futures;
but the planting daily
into the fertile soil
Even their baptism,
unremembered by them
a mustard seed, an act of faith
a trusting in the watering,
in the ultimate growth
a mighty tree, a living tribute
to God, who alone provides the growth
Planted without knowing that which will come
Planting nonetheless, ever
in the belief in the creator
He who made the garden
the earth and all that dwells in it
Planting mustard seeds in fertile ground
seeing what the gardener wills
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
our lessons, our teachings
the mustard seeds
unpredicted futures;
but the planting daily
into the fertile soil
Even their baptism,
unremembered by them
a mustard seed, an act of faith
a trusting in the watering,
in the ultimate growth
a mighty tree, a living tribute
to God, who alone provides the growth
Planted without knowing that which will come
Planting nonetheless, ever
in the belief in the creator
He who made the garden
the earth and all that dwells in it
Planting mustard seeds in fertile ground
seeing what the gardener wills
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
Only through His Power
The words of the apostle, an acknowledgement
of the miraculous gift, His saving and commission
all of his life’s work,
his ministry, a holy calling
only through the grace,
the work of God’s loving power
nothing he did, nothing we do
all shared for God’s holy purpose
to bring the world the riches of Christ
revealed in his life given for us
Only through his power
through the power of God
able to do beyond our wildest dreams
in God alone all things possible
the message of love to share
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
of the miraculous gift, His saving and commission
all of his life’s work,
his ministry, a holy calling
only through the grace,
the work of God’s loving power
nothing he did, nothing we do
all shared for God’s holy purpose
to bring the world the riches of Christ
revealed in his life given for us
Only through his power
through the power of God
able to do beyond our wildest dreams
in God alone all things possible
the message of love to share
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
The Privilege of Sharing
In no way a burden
a joy, the mission of his life
a privilege of sharing
the message of God
of love, of His holy purpose
fulfilled, revealed
in the loving example
the triumphant story
the fulfillment of all promises
in the life of Christ
the word made flesh
What a joyous blessing
to share, with Paul,
this glorious news
to the end of the earth
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
a joy, the mission of his life
a privilege of sharing
the message of God
of love, of His holy purpose
fulfilled, revealed
in the loving example
the triumphant story
the fulfillment of all promises
in the life of Christ
the word made flesh
What a joyous blessing
to share, with Paul,
this glorious news
to the end of the earth
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
Establish Justice
Humbly walking with our God
acting as He would guide
in loving response to his saving grace
to use our might, our power
to establish justice
for your glory alone
to be worthy of the name
children of God
so we are to live,
so is to be our walk
humbly yoked to our brother
the living, risen Lord
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
acting as He would guide
in loving response to his saving grace
to use our might, our power
to establish justice
for your glory alone
to be worthy of the name
children of God
so we are to live,
so is to be our walk
humbly yoked to our brother
the living, risen Lord
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
Freedom with Reverence
Humility, a humbleness with power
calling us, praying that we, that our nation
may use our freedom, our liberty, our might
our freedom with reverence, our calling
from the beginning of time
stewards of the world; but humans only,
far below the mind of God
Our prayer in remembrance of our dead,
of our saints who have gone before,
of those living and those yet to come
a call itself to servanthood
the awesome responsibility
not just the going on our own
turning to God, as the source of our strength
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
calling us, praying that we, that our nation
may use our freedom, our liberty, our might
our freedom with reverence, our calling
from the beginning of time
stewards of the world; but humans only,
far below the mind of God
Our prayer in remembrance of our dead,
of our saints who have gone before,
of those living and those yet to come
a call itself to servanthood
the awesome responsibility
not just the going on our own
turning to God, as the source of our strength
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
No Peace with Oppression
We prayed that God would enable us
to make no peace with oppression
no appeasement to the easy way
no accommodation for evil
no matter where it lives
A calling to our nation
and to our congregation
for the love of Christ
the will of God
the reconciliation with our neighbors
to begin with equality, with love
no peace with those who oppress
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial Day
to make no peace with oppression
no appeasement to the easy way
no accommodation for evil
no matter where it lives
A calling to our nation
and to our congregation
for the love of Christ
the will of God
the reconciliation with our neighbors
to begin with equality, with love
no peace with those who oppress
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial 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. All rights
reserved. Contact me at Ray
Foss for usage. See all 30,050+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Fearlessly Contend Against Evil
The words of our prayer
meaningful in the context of our worship today
the charge for the congregation, for each of our hearts
to fight against evil, no matter where we find it
a unison prayer, on Memorial Day
to not rest on the past
but to march on
to work as we may
to fearlessly contend against evil
with the aid of God.
This is our prayer.
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial 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. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 26,360+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
meaningful in the context of our worship today
the charge for the congregation, for each of our hearts
to fight against evil, no matter where we find it
a unison prayer, on Memorial Day
to not rest on the past
but to march on
to work as we may
to fearlessly contend against evil
with the aid of God.
This is our prayer.
May 24, 2009
Unison Prayer
“Eternal God, who created us in your own image.
Enable us to fearlessly contend against evil and to
make no peace with oppression.
May we use our freedom with reverence, and
for the establishment of justice to the glory of
your holy name; through Jesus Christ our Savior.”
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
Gospel Reading
Mark 4:30-32
and sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
“God Has Big Plans For You”
Suncook United Methodist Church
May 24, 2009
Ascension Sunday
and the Sunday before Memorial 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. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 26,360+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Joining us in our questioning
Christ joins us in our questioning
just as he joined Cleopas and the other
on the dusty Emmaus Road
He comes to us, to walk by our side
to give comfort, assurance
of the fulfillment of all that had been promised
to assure us of his promise to come again
that his life means resurrection
that God is love
that all we have to do
is turn to him, and God will provide
now and in the age to come
May 24, 2009
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Upper Room May 23, 2009
just as he joined Cleopas and the other
on the dusty Emmaus Road
He comes to us, to walk by our side
to give comfort, assurance
of the fulfillment of all that had been promised
to assure us of his promise to come again
that his life means resurrection
that God is love
that all we have to do
is turn to him, and God will provide
now and in the age to come
May 24, 2009
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Upper Room May 23, 2009
Joining them in their anguish
We must remember the moment of their journey
on the day of Easter, before the certainty of his rising
a ministry cut short, followers dispersed,
a feeling of abandonment, of loss beyond measure
Into this moment, he comes, joining them in their anguish
in this moment of despair, not understanding
coming to them, walking with them
revealing all that had come to be
all that had been fulfilled in the path of his life
Joining them, lifting them, yet still unknown to them
he walked with them, bringing clarity
but recognition in the meal, in the simple act
the seeing him breaking the bread
in his offering of grace, enlightenment
May 24, 2009
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Upper Room May 23, 2009
on the day of Easter, before the certainty of his rising
a ministry cut short, followers dispersed,
a feeling of abandonment, of loss beyond measure
Into this moment, he comes, joining them in their anguish
in this moment of despair, not understanding
coming to them, walking with them
revealing all that had come to be
all that had been fulfilled in the path of his life
Joining them, lifting them, yet still unknown to them
he walked with them, bringing clarity
but recognition in the meal, in the simple act
the seeing him breaking the bread
in his offering of grace, enlightenment
May 24, 2009
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus
Upper Room May 23, 2009
Walking in the Shadow of the Cross
Walking, journeying, living out my days
in the shadow of the cross
letting go of my troubles, of my cares
of my life, submitting to God
the direction of my path
Trusting in the creator
and the saving of the son
An unknown future,
a path not of my choosing
unfamiliar, stretching, growing
as if blindfolded, needing a hand
a way through this uncharted land
following where Christ would lead
yoked to my brother, at peace
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
in the shadow of the cross
letting go of my troubles, of my cares
of my life, submitting to God
the direction of my path
Trusting in the creator
and the saving of the son
An unknown future,
a path not of my choosing
unfamiliar, stretching, growing
as if blindfolded, needing a hand
a way through this uncharted land
following where Christ would lead
yoked to my brother, at peace
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
In the Arms of the Cross
Under the shadow of the cross
the servanthood of our king
the arms of the cross
wrapping around me
walking with my savior
my life not my own
guided by the hand of the father
yoked to my brother in love
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
the servanthood of our king
the arms of the cross
wrapping around me
walking with my savior
my life not my own
guided by the hand of the father
yoked to my brother in love
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
Under the Shadow of the Cross
Our lives, if we are yoked to our Savior
our brother, if we are following the calling of the Lord
living under the shadow of the cross
remembering, being called, living
the memory of his life, of his sacrifice
the love of the father, the saving by grace
Our lives given over, our path made clear
trusting in God for our daily needs
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
our brother, if we are following the calling of the Lord
living under the shadow of the cross
remembering, being called, living
the memory of his life, of his sacrifice
the love of the father, the saving by grace
Our lives given over, our path made clear
trusting in God for our daily needs
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
Kneeling Under the Shadow of the Cross
Bowing our heads, giving over our wills
leaving all, our comfort
kneeling as he did, in the Garden
Gethsemane, knowing what awaited
asking for the cup to be removed;
but more, turning his life over
giving the choice, the path over to God
Kneeling under the shadow of the cross
the darkness calling him;
but so was the light
the redemption for us all
to each of us, in our turn
calling us, choosing to follow
to follow the way of the cross
to kneel under its shadow
and call on God
for the direction of our lives
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
leaving all, our comfort
kneeling as he did, in the Garden
Gethsemane, knowing what awaited
asking for the cup to be removed;
but more, turning his life over
giving the choice, the path over to God
Kneeling under the shadow of the cross
the darkness calling him;
but so was the light
the redemption for us all
to each of us, in our turn
calling us, choosing to follow
to follow the way of the cross
to kneel under its shadow
and call on God
for the direction of our lives
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
All of my
poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005,
2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at
Ray Foss for
usage. See all 21,400+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Choosing the Shadow of the Cross
Following the way of the cross,
the example of the Christ
humbling ourselves
submitting, giving our will
turning to the will of God
walking as he walked,
going where we are called
relying on God, not ourselves
trusting, going in faith
believing in the plan
the destiny, the calling
our names on his heart
our lives engraved on his skin
walking, journeying
living our lives yoked with him
choosing the shadow of the cross
following where God would lead
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
the example of the Christ
humbling ourselves
submitting, giving our will
turning to the will of God
walking as he walked,
going where we are called
relying on God, not ourselves
trusting, going in faith
believing in the plan
the destiny, the calling
our names on his heart
our lives engraved on his skin
walking, journeying
living our lives yoked with him
choosing the shadow of the cross
following where God would lead
May 24, 2009
Alive Now for May 23, 2009
“Courage to Face Uncertainty”,
by Pastor M. Kent Millard,
pages 35-37
Ezekiel 11:19
Psalm 46
Psalm 46:1-11
Matthew 6:33-34
1 Peter 5:6-7
Acts 1:12-26
Inspiration Poetry
Words coming quickly
titles and phrases, bits of the body
flying through the air
falling to the page
in line and verse
inspiration poetry
a pad close at hand
plucked from the ether
words by inspiration
no perspiration required
gifts alone
from heaven above
titles and phrases, bits of the body
flying through the air
falling to the page
in line and verse
inspiration poetry
a pad close at hand
plucked from the ether
words by inspiration
no perspiration required
gifts alone
from heaven above
==================
edited
January 13, 2016
Inspiration
Poetry – v6
(merging
edits to version 3, version 4, and version 5)
(I
know, this is part of the craft thing…)
edited November 17, 2015
Inspiration
Poetry – v5
(editing
version 3)
edited November 5, 2015
Inspiration
Poetry – v4
(editing
version 3)
edited
November 4, 2015
Inspiration
Poetry – v3
(merging
version 2 and original)
Edited
September 4, 2012
“Inspiration
Poetry – v2”
May
24, 2009
“Inspiration
Poetry”
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 40,650+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Fifty Years
I thought about the date, yesterday
Fifty years since they said, I do
eighteen since she said, goodbye.
A moment in time, a date on the calendar
a marking of what might have been;
but of what was as well,
the happy moments of life
they shared, we shared as a family,
and as we talked, sharing of what is in her new life,
her joy in the new gifts.
Three years since they said, I do
a sea of family and friends, witnesses
attesting, affirming their love for each other
seen again in the hospital room
this week of their lives, their life together
the language they shared,
even when there were no words
A privilege to witness, to see them together
in touch and in whispered words
heard even with the hearing aids
softer than others must speak
somehow heard,
through their life together.
Fifty years, that might have been;
a life that is living still
in other arms; but few regrets
the joy in the love they share now.
May 24, 2009
Fifty years since they said, I do
eighteen since she said, goodbye.
A moment in time, a date on the calendar
a marking of what might have been;
but of what was as well,
the happy moments of life
they shared, we shared as a family,
and as we talked, sharing of what is in her new life,
her joy in the new gifts.
Three years since they said, I do
a sea of family and friends, witnesses
attesting, affirming their love for each other
seen again in the hospital room
this week of their lives, their life together
the language they shared,
even when there were no words
A privilege to witness, to see them together
in touch and in whispered words
heard even with the hearing aids
softer than others must speak
somehow heard,
through their life together.
Fifty years, that might have been;
a life that is living still
in other arms; but few regrets
the joy in the love they share now.
May 24, 2009
Naming a Fragrance
The subtle, profound, the pungent,
sweet, soft, loud, ornate
naming a fragrance,
of the variations of lilac scents
the soft subtle lily of the valley
the flesh under the skin of a kiwi
fresh-mown lawn,
blacktop after a shower
under a mostly sunny sky in August
(versus a light shower on a wet lawn
in late May)
dirt turned in the garden
steak on the grill
Naming a fragrance
to evoke, to stir,
to remember,
all so we can understand
May 24, 2009
sweet, soft, loud, ornate
naming a fragrance,
of the variations of lilac scents
the soft subtle lily of the valley
the flesh under the skin of a kiwi
fresh-mown lawn,
blacktop after a shower
under a mostly sunny sky in August
(versus a light shower on a wet lawn
in late May)
dirt turned in the garden
steak on the grill
Naming a fragrance
to evoke, to stir,
to remember,
all so we can understand
May 24, 2009
Describing Colors
My limited language, different meanings,
perceptions of colors, of shades, hues;
brand names, the color wheel
plants, fruits, sky and cloud
all a palette from which to choose
to try, in tenuous ways
to capture wonder, beauty,
utter perfection
Describing colors, to bring memory
to find common understanding
using the names of nature
to describe the colors I see
hoping that they will be meaningful
to all who read my lines
May 24, 2009
perceptions of colors, of shades, hues;
brand names, the color wheel
plants, fruits, sky and cloud
all a palette from which to choose
to try, in tenuous ways
to capture wonder, beauty,
utter perfection
Describing colors, to bring memory
to find common understanding
using the names of nature
to describe the colors I see
hoping that they will be meaningful
to all who read my lines
May 24, 2009
A Series of Squares
The work, the lawn
carved up into a series of squares
crisp edges, overlapping rows
breaking all up
a section at a time.
Like parts of a maze,
a prayer labyrinth
in the segments, the squares
the rectangles and the edges,
all woven, walked
A series of squares,
around the trees, the pines
at the edge of the hill,
between the beds
the soccer field
A pattern of pieces
together a whole
watching the skies
for the clouds above
rounding each corner
to finish the whole
May 24, 2009
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 19,900+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
carved up into a series of squares
crisp edges, overlapping rows
breaking all up
a section at a time.
Like parts of a maze,
a prayer labyrinth
in the segments, the squares
the rectangles and the edges,
all woven, walked
A series of squares,
around the trees, the pines
at the edge of the hill,
between the beds
the soccer field
A pattern of pieces
together a whole
watching the skies
for the clouds above
rounding each corner
to finish the whole
May 24, 2009
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 19,900+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
A Single Thistle
At the base of the fir
the thick trunk
a single thistle
growing up between the roots
strong, thorny, green
the flower of Scotland
home of my kin
where Jessie’s family came from
there safe, for a time
under the protection of the fir
and the spikes on its skin
a single thistle growing in the yard
May 23, 2009 and May 24, 2009
the thick trunk
a single thistle
growing up between the roots
strong, thorny, green
the flower of Scotland
home of my kin
where Jessie’s family came from
there safe, for a time
under the protection of the fir
and the spikes on its skin
a single thistle growing in the yard
May 23, 2009 and May 24, 2009
Trills in the Breezes
The window open next to me
early May morning in the office
three of the kittens, all the boys
squeezed into the small space
drawn by the trills in the breezes
sounds of the waking birds
a spring chorus in our backyard
May 23, 2009
and again May 24, 2009
early May morning in the office
three of the kittens, all the boys
squeezed into the small space
drawn by the trills in the breezes
sounds of the waking birds
a spring chorus in our backyard
May 23, 2009
and again May 24, 2009
One-Ply on the End Cap
Oh it was too easy, in my rush
after the traffic to the bank,
the banter of the customers
marking time by the rope line
nothing so pretty as velvet
waiting under the fluorescent bulbs
by the self-service express line
A short shopping list,
added to by a quick phone call
heading to the frozen treats
A little too easy, the giant bargain pack
toilet paper on the end cap
Quick grab, move to the treats,
What, no cherry, oh well,
sugar free may work
to the fruit, a real savings (sweet),
to the aisle, register
Drive home, in triumph,
a successful run, nonetheless
Let me see the paper, she said
a bit too ominously
It was one-ply on the end cap,
again. Nuts!
edited November 27, 2021
One-Ply on the End Cap – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2021/11/one-ply-on-end-cap-v2.html
May 24, 2009
One-Ply on the End Cap
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2009/05/one-ply-on-end-cap.html
poetry, dad fails, toilet paper, bargain, retail, home,
family,
#poetry #dadfails #toiletpaper #bargain #retail #home #family
All of my poems, photographs, and
videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004,
2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017,
2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for
usage. See all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
His Eternal Purpose
Since the very beginning
one eternal purpose
the goal of God, the creator
reconciliation, communion
relationship with a people
covenant, love
By works alone, by the law
we failed, our nature;
unable to seal the breach.
By the water, by the Spirit
by his precious blood alone
sacrifice, atonement, reconciled
by the grace of God alone
through the word made flesh
the risen, living Christ
there before the beginning
eternal, one with God
our hope is in Him.
May 21, 2009
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
for May 24, 2009,
Ascension Sunday
Suncook United Methodist Church
one eternal purpose
the goal of God, the creator
reconciliation, communion
relationship with a people
covenant, love
By works alone, by the law
we failed, our nature;
unable to seal the breach.
By the water, by the Spirit
by his precious blood alone
sacrifice, atonement, reconciled
by the grace of God alone
through the word made flesh
the risen, living Christ
there before the beginning
eternal, one with God
our hope is in Him.
May 21, 2009
The Epistle Reading
Ephesians 3:7-13
for May 24, 2009,
Ascension Sunday
Suncook United Methodist Church
Little White Bells
Little white bells
lanterns hanging from each stem
where there would have been a lawn
a sea of lily of the valley
a fog of scent
greeting our walk
home from the school
to start our day
edited April 7, 2022
Little White Bells – v2
edited April 6, 2022
Gathering her mother’s lilies – v3
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2022/04/gathering-her-mothers-lilies-v3.html
edited April 6, 2022
Gathering her mother’s lilies – v2
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2022/04/gathering-her-mothers-lilies-v2.html
April 6, 2022
Gathering Her mother’s lilies
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2022/04/gathering-her-mothers-lilies.html
&
October 9, 2010
In Their Fragrance and Their Colors
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2010/10/in-their-fragrance-and-their-colors.html
written as birthday gift
for my mother, Patricia Cobb,
on the occasion of her 75th birthday
October 9, 2010
&
February 12, 2010
On the side of their house
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2010/02/on-side-of-their-house.html
Mid to later in the 1960’s
15 Bates Street, Westfield, MA
&
May 21, 2009
Little White Bells
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2009/05/little-white-bells.html
corner of Prospect and Broadway,
Suncook, NH
&
May 1, 2008
A Line of Chartreuse Blooms
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2008/05/line-of-chartreuse-blooms.html
&
May 22, 2005
Lily of the Valley – 1999
https://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2005/08/lily-of-valley-1999.html
All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted
by Raymond A. Foss, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008,
2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021,
and 2022. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss
(raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See
all 53,000+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
poetry, family, memories, nature, senses, Poetry Where
You Live, sun, God, creation, grace, beauty, faith, smell, lily of the valley, bouquet,
flowers, mother, grandmother, wedding, lilies,
#poetry #family #memories #nature #senses #sun #God #creation
#grace #beauty #faith #smell #lilyofthevalley #bouquet #flowers #mother #grandmother
#wedding #lilies
To Proclaim His Wonderful Triumphs
Appointed, named
commissioned into a royal priesthood
a people, a faith
for all time
to proclaim the wonderful triumphs
Christ’s victory, eternal,
over sin, over the judgment of death
We are to be his witnesses
humble children of the light
a people united in ministry
going as he was sent
spreading light
to pierce the darkness
to the ends of the earth
May 21, 2009
1 Peter 2:9,
the Call to Worship for
May 24, 2009 – Ascension Sunday
Sunday before Memorial Day
Suncook United Methodist Church
1 Peter 2:9-10
1 Peter 2:4-10
commissioned into a royal priesthood
a people, a faith
for all time
to proclaim the wonderful triumphs
Christ’s victory, eternal,
over sin, over the judgment of death
We are to be his witnesses
humble children of the light
a people united in ministry
going as he was sent
spreading light
to pierce the darkness
to the ends of the earth
May 21, 2009
1 Peter 2:9,
the Call to Worship for
May 24, 2009 – Ascension Sunday
Sunday before Memorial Day
Suncook United Methodist Church
1 Peter 2:9-10
1 Peter 2:4-10
A Single Poppy
In the whole garden
like screens of green
plane of green
rising into the morning sun
a single poppy
more ornate, fuller, larger
as if a shower puff,
overlapping petals
a singular color, melting
salmon steak and orange sherbet
richer, softer
crepe paper ribbon bloom
drinking in the light
a single red-orange
against a sea of green
May 21, 2009
Broadway Street
Pembroke/Suncook, NH
like screens of green
plane of green
rising into the morning sun
a single poppy
more ornate, fuller, larger
as if a shower puff,
overlapping petals
a singular color, melting
salmon steak and orange sherbet
richer, softer
crepe paper ribbon bloom
drinking in the light
a single red-orange
against a sea of green
May 21, 2009
Broadway Street
Pembroke/Suncook, NH
Deep, Deep Purple
Way darker than violet
rich, saturated, pure
color-wheel-purple
shimmering color of the lilacs
full bouquets on each branch
bunches and bunches, clusters
like hydrangea blooms
heavy, intoxicating fragrance
a cloud of purple perfume
the purest color, purple
deep beyond description
May 21, 2009
Prescott Street
Suncook, NH
rich, saturated, pure
color-wheel-purple
shimmering color of the lilacs
full bouquets on each branch
bunches and bunches, clusters
like hydrangea blooms
heavy, intoxicating fragrance
a cloud of purple perfume
the purest color, purple
deep beyond description
May 21, 2009
Prescott Street
Suncook, NH
As threadbare as old cheesecloth
no flesh remaining, just the dry bones
maybe the veins and arteries,
yes, that may be the way
to describe what remains
as threadbare as old cheesecloth,
paperbag-brown, like corn starch to the touch
complicated intricate structures
a lattice, a spider’s web of design
just resting there, on the lawn,
uncovered in our furious raking
gathering in the loss of last year’s fall
to be turned back into soil
an old leaf, as threadbare as old cheesecloth
a treasure to be found in the green of the moss
the rich whites and yellow
of the wild strawberry blossoms
hidden in plain view
for those who discover their beauty
------
edited
July 7, 2018
As
threadbare as old cheesecloth – v7
(merging
edits to versions 5 and 6)
edited
July 7, 2018
As
threadbare as old cheesecloth – v6
(editing
original)
Edited
November 20, 2014
As
threadbare as old cheesecloth – v5
(editing
version 3)
edited
October 6, 2014
As
threadbare as old cheesecloth – v4
Edited
October 25, 2013
As
threadbare as old cheesecloth – v3
edited
November 14, 2011
As
threadbare as old cheesecloth – v2
May
21, 2009
As
threadbare as old cheesecloth
title
saved 12/27/08
edited
July 7, 2018
late
spring, early summer – v2
edited
July 7, 2018
the
skin of an ancient reptile – v3
adding
a third stanza
edited
July 7, 2018
the
skin of an ancient reptile – v2
July
7, 2018
late
spring, early summer
July
7, 2018
the
living map rolled out – v2
July
7, 2018
the
living map rolled out
July
7, 2018
the
skin of an ancient reptile
challenge
post on twitter page
“How
poetic can you be? Write a short poem about what you see!”
picture
of a leaf
Realistic
Poetry
&
edited
July 4, 2018
each
drop breathed, a prayer
edited
July 4, 2018
each
drop a prayer – v3
edited
July 4, 2018
each
drop a prayer – v2
July
3, 2018
each
drop a prayer
July
2, 2018
Pearls
and Jewels of Water on the Bloom
July
2, 2018
post
on the Realistic Poetry Twitter page,
a
picture of a orange lily covered in rain water
“How
poetic can you be? Write a short poem about what you see!”
edits
to last stanza of prior poem
edited
June 26, 2014
After
the Shower – v2
June
6, 2007 6:50
After
the Shower
Wesley
United Methodist Church
Concord,
NH
All
of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000,
2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013,
2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray
Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for
usage. See all 47,200 of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
spring,
summery, green, autumn, creator, Faith, God, good soil, grace, hope, leaves,
maple trees, Nature, Poetry Where You Live, Raymond A. Foss, senses, sight,
touch, Writing Poetry,
#spring
#summer #autumn #brown #creator #Faith #God #grace #green #hope #leaves #maple
#Methodist #Nature #Poetry #senses #sight #touch #Writing #photograph
#photography #imagination #colors #vibrant #alive #life #living
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