Friday, February 11, 2011

Unrest in Egypt

There is trouble in that ancient land
so important to the world
unrest in Egypt
people taking to the street
it is time to speak

All of us complacent
if we do not join with them
calling for his ouster
for this to end


February 11, 2011
a prayer for Egypt
and see
http://www.facebook.com/raymond.a.foss#!/notes/safiyah-fosua/a-prayer-for-the-people-of-egypt-february-3-2011/10150134548244274
A Prayer for the People of Egypt (February 3, 2011)
by Safiyah Fosua
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=719089081

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Awakened from Slumber

Lost, feeling alone
aware of my sin
focused on the loss I caused
not knowing where to begin

Entering into your word
the hope of all mankind
finding solace in their hope
the joy I felt inside

Stepping out of my past
walking more nearly with you
guiding my steps evermore
in all I say and do

Becoming bolder
more sure every day
leaving me in service
to share your word today


February 11, 2011
new status of
Isaac Kiiza Tiibasima
February 10, 2011
&
starting Disciple I bible study
Fall 2004

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

My Heart Closed

Something about this world
my heart closed
walled off from my faith
not wanting to believe

Lost in the fog of this world
never really opening your book
never reading your words of love
Your call for my life

And You opened the door for me
to a world of grace, of hope
fulfilled, joy revealed
Your words coming alive

Leaving my past behind
turning to you
finding new life in your words
knowing they are true

Hearing the echoes of those days
when I first came from the fog
entering into your grace oh Lord
heeding your heavenly call


February 11, 2011
new status of
Isaac Kiiza Tiibasima
February 10, 2011
&
starting Disciple I bible study
Fall 2004

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

To a World of Grace

Struggling still in my life
trying to find my way
yet more at peace in this
trying every day

Wandering, the prodigal
a child of Abraham
yet seeking a way in this world
following the ways of man

You were by my side
even when I didn’t know it
knocking, waiting
when I was ready to come in

And You opened the door for me
to a world of grace, of hope
fulfilled, joy revealed
Your words coming alive

Finding new life in you
a sense of direction for my days
following your commands
the path you had planned for me

Coming into Your presence
feeling You already there
lifting me up from my brokenness
aware I am being transformed

Fitted for your purpose
bending to your will
submitting more each day
that I may truly live


February 11, 2011
new status of
Isaac Kiiza Tiibasima
February 10, 2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

And You opened the door for me

My life unfocused
waiting, wondering
which way to turn
You saved me from myself
and you opened the door for me

Coming into Your presence
feeling You already there
walking with You ever
lifting me up from my brokenness
the cares slipping away

Only when I am with You
when I turn from the world
the confusion replaced with purpose
words flowing like water
washing me with grace


February 11, 2011
new status of
Isaac Kiiza Tibasiima
February 10, 2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Wednesday, February 09, 2011

Your Light Shall Rise

If we stand and go
walking with our Savior
leaving our cares
at the altar of the cross

If we remember our clay
remaining salt of the earth
carrying his light ever
out into the world

Your light shall rise
up onto a hill
like a city fortress
a lamp on a lampstand

Shining bright
cutting through the darkness
offering love to all
to the ends of the earth


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

The Lord will Guide You

Like a pair of oxen
yoked together
the Lord will guide you
if you are humble in your spirit
submitting your will
to the plans of God

The Lord will guide you
carrying light for the Father
out into the world
through the dark places
the deserts lush
teaming with water
quenching our thirst
wrapped in his love

Going out
into the wilderness
salt of the earth
bearing light to the world
all of us able
worthy for service
offering the gifts we have been given
to heal the whole world


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

The Lord will Satisfy Your Needs

We must be more faithful
believing our Savior
the witness of Christ
as he walked on the earth

The blessings he offered
what he promised
the Beatitudes alive
if we follow the Christ

All of the law, the prophets
fulfilled in our Savior
nothing abolished
all to be revered

We must be more faithful
living out our witness
as the salt of the earth
shining God’s light to the world


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Like a Spring of Water

Rich living water,
like a spring of water
never failing, ending
rising to refresh us

So is the blessing
washing over us
if we follow the Christ
and be light to the world

Yoked with our Savior
our brother, our shepherd
guiding our feet
these legs made of clay

Needing to stay
the salt that we came from
yet alive with the Spirit
the very breath of God

Serving our neighbors
offering light in the darkness
bearing our witness
to the ends of the earth

How God has transformed us
changed us from the dust
turned our lives around
with his outpouring of love


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Like a Watered Garden

Submitting the Father
the will of the Master
drenched with his blessings
like a watered garden

Blessed are we
as the sermon taught us
Christ speaking directly
to you and me

We are to be faithful
remembering our beginings
from the dust of the earth
from salt of the ground

We become light
turning to our Savior
placed up on the lampstand
to be light to the world


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

We repair the breach

Our witness, our lives
walking with our neighbors
loving our brothers
even the strangers

The choices we make
how we live
we repair the breach
between God and man

Yes there is grace
oh how we need this
God’s unending love
lifting us up

But Christ came to fulfill
the law and the prophets
not to tear down
but to lift us up

We are to shine
to be light in the darkness
humble in our walk
as the salt of the earth

Shining our light
up on the lampstand
witnesses to God’s grace
yoked with the Christ


February 9, 2011
We repair the breach
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Scout Sunday

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. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 42,040+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.


Faith, God, Christ, love, grace, Poetry Where You Live, Raymond A. Foss, United Methodist, God’s purpose, Matthew 5, Isaiah 58, calling, disciple

In Ministry


Everyone who chooses
to be salt of the earth
the light of the world
giving new birth

All who offer cold water
in God’s loving name
all who aid a neighbor
who is struggling, in pain

All who wash feet
who forgive their brother
feeding the poor
lifting up another

Everyone who chooses
to fulfill the scripture
in ministry, in communion
with our Lord and Savior

Offering light
in the name of Christ
his grace, our example
pushing back the night


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

See Your Good Works

The light we shine
while remaining true to our faith
remaining salt of the earth
humble in our place

Walking with Christ
following the law
living out the scripture
seen by one and all

Up on the lampstand
that others may see
our good works, our love
for our neighbor and Thee

Walking in fulfillment
living our your commands
trying to be righteous
doing all that we can

Remaining faithful
in the way of the cross
sharing Christ’s love
to the least and the lost


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

How Ever We Can

In all that we do
how ever we can
living out the law
in all that we do

Following the Christ
fulfilling the word
nothing left, cast off
always by our side

Salt of the earth
a light to the world
seeing our good works
giving glory to the Lord


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

However we can

Being that salt
the salt of the earth
where ever we are
however we can
living as Jesus commands

Not without fault
but striving to live
an example to others
in what we give
in how we walk
from day to day
in how we share
along our way

Being that light
our oil always burning
shining in the darkness
up on the lampstand
that all may live


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Putting Me on the Lampstand

From the depth of wandering
lost in the world
not knowing my purpose
yet loving your word

Feeling God’s calling
yet not knowing how
sharing your goodness
your presence in my life

Putting me on the lampstand
sharing His words to the world
offering my humble witness
to the ends of the earth


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

In the Pit He Found Me

In the pit he found me
in my despair
offering me love
finding it there

My savior reached down
lifted me up
offering me love
filling my empty cup

Putting me on the lampstand
sharing His words to the world
offering my humble witness
to the ends of the earth


February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Giving Light to All

Projecting into the darkness
giving light to all
sharing our love for Jesus
answering His call

Sharing the story of redemption
how we were lifted up
though we were empty
he lovingly filled our cup

Being the salt of the earth
relating to our neighbors
sharing the love of Jesus
to the ends of the earth


February 8, 2011 and February 9, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Tuesday, February 08, 2011

To be salt of the earth

Christ calling us
to be ourselves
salt of the earth
made of clay

Each of us able
if we are true to ourselves
to be faithful, light
light to the world


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

All of Us Salt

We are called
because of our plainness
leading others
to the throne of grace

We are called
all of us salt
salt of the earth
common, made of clay

We are called
to bear our witness
telling the truth
of how Christ changed our lives

We are called
offering hope in the message
to share Christ with other
to be his light

Going out
into the darkness
shining light
that all may see


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Of the Earth

Of the earth
bound with the clay
nothing special
of the everyday

We each can be light
not just the elite
bearing the Christ
being his hands and feet


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

To the World - 2

Christ’s words
to the world
not for ourselves
to share his word

Our blessing, our joy
to the nations
singing praises
for our saving

Bearing witness
being salt of the earth
all of our blessing
to give them new birth


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Only through God

Only through God
given the breath of life
only through Christ
Able to be Light

Walking in my clay
the salt of the earth
only the living water
gives me true birth

Only through God
given the breath of life
only through Christ
Able to be Light


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Only Through Christ - 2

Only through Christ
Able to be Light
to walk this earth
sharing his love

Changed from the clay
the salt of the earth
remaining humble
in this is my new birth

Only through Christ
Able to be light
Sharing God’s love
that the world would be bright


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Able to be Light

Though I am salt
humble, of clay
able to be light
to shine always

Christ’s grace alone
raising me from the pit
up onto the lampstand
a city on the hill

Sharing my witness
the love of God
turning my life around
up from ground

Soaring on wings
imbued by God’s love
feeling him with me
the weight of the dove


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Remaining Salty

Ever remembering
the base, our clay
the stuff of the earth
all that I am

Only through God
given the breath of life
only through Christ
Able to be Light


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Reaching Within

From the depths of our being
the stuff of the earth
our lives with meaning
through Christ new birth

Reaching within
the Spirit indwelling
bearing clear witness
out into the world

Shining our light
open and honest
up on the lampstand
for all to see

Staying true
salty in our living
honestly bringing
Christ to this world


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Enhancing the Taste

Salt of the earth
spice for the message
truth in our words
spoken from the heart

Light within us
the Spirit indwelling
shining to the world
a heavenly light

Piercing the darkness
the witness we bear
authentic in speaking
our words as a prayer


February 8, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Monday, February 07, 2011

Let Your Light Shine

Christ telling us
a loving commandment
to be the salt of the earth
emotive in our witness

To be the light to the world
to let your light shine
a beacon in the darkness
healing all of mankind

Only by sharing
the love of Christ
only by bearing
Christ to the world

God is counting on us
just as we count on him
to be his hands and feet
his voice in this world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

That My Light Might Shine

Turning to his call
the fire within
away from the world
that my life may begin

Alive in Christ
one candle burning
that my light might shine
into the darkness

Bearing my witness
my humble walk on earth
that I would ever remember
I am the salt of the earth


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

We pass on the light

Letting our light shine
not hiding our gifts
the words of our faith
rolling from our lips

Sharing how God has changed us
how Christ lifted us up
how we are led from destruction
by the depths of his love

We pass on the light
when we are the salt of the earth
humble in our witness
sharing the grace of Christ


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Be the Light to the World

Christ’s statement to us
that we are the salt of the earth
a light to the nations
to all those in need
that we are to witness
to share God’s love
to be the light to the world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Anyone Can Be Salt to the Earth

Christ, in his message
speaking to us gathered
with him on the mountain
sitting at our master’s feet

Listening intently
seeking to discern his message
how salt can remain salty
or lose its taste

Anyone can be
the salt of the earth
a light to the nations
not by royal birth

Each of us choosing
to offer true witness
how God grace changed us
healed us from within

How we are empowered
sharing Christ’s message
following his example
out into the world

All of us commissioned
to make more disciples
all of our common clay
yet the light to the world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Worth Our Salt

Worth our salt
remaining salty
salt of the earth
sharing our light
our witness truly
coming from our lives
offering hope
in ways authentic
sharing God’s love
to the ends of the earth


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Facets of Salt

Layers of meaning
facets of salt
faces of wisdom
like the faces of the crystals
something to remember
in reading the scripture
the message to be salt
salt of the earth
more than one meaning
the lesson to carry
to offer to the nations
authentic witness
a light to the world
bearing the Christ


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

The glint of the crystals

The mica in the granite
quartz, rosy or clear
jagged shards of beauty
drawing my eyes to come near

The rock of the field
formed in the stone wall
ancient and unmoving
yet yielding to the tree

The moving of the wall
ancient and unkept
covered in lichen
wondering where the years went

No longer holding in
an unused tangible border
left to the passerby
wandering through the forest


February 7, 2011


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Under the edge of the cliff

The bluff giving way
to the endless rhythm of the tides
the winds blowing roughly
leaving the roots behind

The bank of the cliff face eroding
the sand/clay giving way
under the edge of the cliff
the rosa rugosa falling away


February 7, 2011

Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

The Green Sky

The green sky over the water
rising from the depth
beyond the bright horizon
far off to the east

After a night on the dunes
the grasses of the guard towers
the bunkers below us
entombed in concrete

The brilliance of the dawning
the water like the sky
alive with brilliant colors
the dew by our side

Lost in our own thoughts
silent this morning
the laughter of the evening waning
under the green sky dawning


February 7, 2011
a morning at Odiorne State Park
Rye, NH
either 1981 or 1982


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

More Salty

A lesson in the scripture
to live my life more salty
authentic in my witness
not bound by academe

Telling the world of your goodness
how you changed my life
bound to the earth
as I am made of clay
only by grace
am I light

God wanting us to be true
to be the salt of the earth
worthy in our witness
to everyone we meet

February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Within the wooden boxes

Off in the basement
beyond the cellar stairway
in the mist of the dust
the harbingers of time

Within the wooden boxes
kept in the corner
becoming one with the floor
the dirt wrapped around them

Ancient plates packed away
patterns of the past
the china of their parents
and those before them

In the wooden boxes
history of the families
the blossoms and the ribbon
under the dust the dirt

Kept for some future
stored in their basement
I wonder what has become of them
some in my china cabinet


February 7, 2011
the good china
in my grandparent’s basement
forty years or more ago
&
----
On the Earthen Ground

Down into their basement one day
treasures there abound
a collection of life kept safe
on the bare earthen ground

China of family long gone from this earth
beautiful in boxes packed
some of this now part of my home
a piece of them carried on

So many things,
the stuff of our lives
handed down from age to age
kept because of the memory
the connection with them
but things alone nonetheless


February 2, 2010


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Tasting the Spice

The salt of the earth
the song of our Savior
light to the world
a witness of love

Tasting the spice
the calling of our maker
to be the salt of the earth
his witness in the world

None of us special
common and authentic
made of the clay
the stuff of the earth

Our calling to be true
authentic in our speaking
our living out the calling
made to one and all

To be a light to the world
the beacon in the darkness
carrying the light
from our static place

To bear his light
into the darkness
cleansing hearts
with the balm of his word


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Melting the Ice

The metaphor profound
yet there before us
the ice giving way
to the salt of the earth

Spreading salt
on the path to your temple
the sand mixed in
to make the path clear

Melting ice
the darkness receding
our witness revealing
the love of the Christ

All of us worthy
salt of the earth
worthy of the message
to share our new birth

We are to go
to be a light to the nations
sharing God’s love
to the ends of the earth

The salt of the earth
not some prestigious group
each of us able
to be light to the world


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Authentic Seasoning

Shining clearly
the light of our witness
shadows melting
as light streams through

Authentic seasoning
salt of the earth
common people
the source of new birth

Bearing Christ
carried on the lampstand
a beacon in the darkness
spreading his love

Offering our lives
the story of his presence
hope in the sharing
of God’s holy word


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

More Salt

Thinking about dinner
sitting around the table
how often we grab,
ask for the salt
how much stronger
how more tender
the seasoning we desire
there in the salt

To be salt of the earth
a light to the world
grounded in tradition
following your word
aching for more
that the taste would be sweeter
God’s love revealed
to the ends of the earth


February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

You are the Light to the World

Christ’s words to me
to every one of us
You are the light of the world
the hope of all mankind

To shine through the confusion
the chaos of these days
showing the love of our Savior
all of our days

Christ’s voice in this time
his hands and feet now
witnesses to God’s grace
to the ends of the earth


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

We are to be salt

We are to be salt
authentic, consistent
speaking of hope
our choice to serve
to follow the Christ

We are to be salt
to season the world
witness to grace
his presence in our lives
showing us love
walking with us
out into the world
witness to his grace


February 6, 2011 and February 7, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Sunday, February 06, 2011

On the Lampstand

Our light to shine
projecting into the darkness
up on the lampstand
not to be hidden

To offer hope
to the ends of the earth
bearing God’s love
out into this world


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

Our Light Must Shine

Christ counting on us
to be salt to the earth
our light must shine
that others may live

The works of our hands
what we say
mirroring the Christ
every single day


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

I come to fulfill

The words should ring
in each believer’s ear
not to abolishing
but to fulfill

I come to fulfill
said the Christ
the law and the prophets
every word
nothing is lost

All will be judged
coming before the Christ
needing to live out his witness
to be salt to the earth


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

An Example to the Nations

Called by Christ
you and me
to be a light to the world
an example to the nations

By our lives, a witness
seeing our good works
living out the law
all of the prophets

Following the Christ
informed by his teaching
the guidance of his life
going the way of servanthood


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.

You, and Me

Christ’s words,
speaking to us
as he did back then
With them on the mountain
sitting at his feet
hearing the Christ
speaking to us

You, and me
to be salt of the earth
light to the world
shining in the darkness
living out his call
with him fulfilling
all holiness


February 6, 2011
Matthew 5:13-20 (NRSV)
(and Matthew 5:1-12, Beatitudes)
John 6:51 (Call to Worship)
Isaiah 58.6-12 (NRSV)
John 13:34-35 and Ephesians 4:4-6
(“They'll Know We Are Christians by Our Love”, The Faith We Sing #2223)
Micah 6:8
(“We Are Called”, The Faith We Sing #2172)
Call to Worship (John 6:51)
Prayer of Confession
Prayer of Dedication
Worship Theme: “A Meal for All People”
and sermon, “Salty Christians”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
February 6, 2011
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
http://www.umcgiving.org/site/apps/nlnet/content2.aspx?c=qwL6KkNWLrH&b=6505209&ct=9039781¬oc=1
Scout Sunday


Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.