Saturday, June 06, 2009

Marks of the Potter’s Hand

Signs of his touch
marks of the Potter’s hand
his efforts recorded
written on the flesh, the tissue
on this flawed vessel
Places where imperfections
worked out by the molding
sculpting of his knowing, working
the clay, slowly, giving to His will
Reformed by the touch, loving touch
the healing of brokenness
made useful, ever needing more
of the Potter’s hands, his marks on me


June 6, 2009
Psalm 138
Psalm 139
Psalm 148
Isaiah 61:10-62:3
Jeremiah 18:1-4
Jeremiah 18:1-11
Jeremiah 18:1-12
Philippians 2:1-13
Luke 2:22-40
John 1:1-14
Galatians 4:4-7

Thursday, June 04, 2009

While Others Were Praying

while others passed him
while they were entering in
the hour of prayer
Two of the twelve
stopping to share more
more than meager coins
offering him life,
healing him;
he rose, leaping
praising God
while others were praying
unaware


June 4, 2009
Luke 7:17-22
Acts 3:1-8
and sermon, “Worship That is Life Changing”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
June 7, 2009
Trinity Sunday

Proof in His Acts

By his acts, his ministry
proof of his identity
the truth of his coming
not in claiming the mantle
crown of glory, throne of power
By his acts revealed,
the Messiah come.


June 4, 2009
Luke 7:17-22
Acts 3:1-8
and sermon, “Worship That is Life Changing”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
June 7, 2009
Trinity Sunday

The One

John asked, “Are you the one,
the one who is to come?”
In his service, in his healing
not on a throne, not worldly power
with the power of heaven
authority over spirits, over sin,
over death itself
with words of power, of love
in his ministry
being the one who has come
Hallelujah and Amen!


June 4, 2009
Luke 7:17-22
Acts 3:1-8
and sermon, “Worship That is Life Changing”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
June 7, 2009
Trinity Sunday

So Undignified

I can picture the wagging tongues
those there for show
to be seen, publicly praying
seeing the beggar, the lame
jumping in the Temple
shouting for joy!

So undignified, the clucking hens
within the gate, in the courts
his authentic praise
leaping for joy!


June 4, 2009
Luke 7:17-22
Acts 3:1-8
and sermon, “Worship That is Life Changing”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
June 7, 2009
Trinity Sunday

By His Deeds

By deeds of power
through the work of his hands
the love in his message
sharing the truth of who he is
in what was seen and heard

By deeds of power
the authority of God
healing by his hands,
raising by his call
love of God in his words
the one who is to come


June 4, 2009
Luke 7:17-22
Acts 3:1-8
and sermon, “Worship That is Life Changing”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
June 7, 2009
Trinity Sunday

At the Hour of Prayer

an extraordinary prayer
declaring the power of God
the certainty of the answer
a commandment
a statement of faith
calling the lame to walk,
to jump, entering the courts
creating a holy commotion
at the hour of prayer


June 4, 2009
Luke 7:17-22
Acts 3:1-8
and sermon, “Worship That is Life Changing”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
June 7, 2009
Trinity Sunday

Wednesday, June 03, 2009

email of 6/3/09 from General Board of Church and Society, The United Methodist Church

Five Ways to Support Victims of Torture During Torture Awareness Month

Dear Raymond,

The National Religious Campaign Against Torture (NRCAT) has 5 simple things you can do to support victims of torture and put an end to torture around the world:
Organize an educational event for your congregation, using NRCAT’s new 18-minute DVD and discussion guide: “Ending U.S.-sponsored Torture Forever." You can view the trailer or order a copy from NRCAT's website.

Plan to join us in Washington, DC on June 11 for a Religious Public Witness in front of the White House.

Incorporate a prayer or sermon about torture in a worship service during June. You can access a variety of worship resources, on NRCAT's website.

Make your opposition to torture visible with NRCAT’s new banners and bumper stickers. Order today from NRCAT’s Online Store. If your congregation already has an anti-torture banner, please display it this month.


Organize a delegation to visit the local district office of your Member(s) of Congress to advocate for a Commission of Inquiry and legislation making elements of the President’s executive order permanent in law. Members of Congress will most likely be in their home districts during the July 4th recess (June 29 to July 3).
We've had over 1600 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.

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

Tuesday, June 02, 2009

Strangely Warmed

Wesley’s description, his conversion
an appropriate thought on Pentecost morn’

Strangely warmed, so they must have been
flames of fire, resting on them

Changing their ways, the path of their days
the lives evermore, guided by the Spirit

Living within them, their beating hearts
the embers of that day, ever indwelling within

Our days like them, like him, the founders of our faith
the fire of the spirit warming us in our hearts


==============
edited May 24, 2017
Strangely Warmed – v2

June 2, 2009
Strangely Warmed
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
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
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
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
&
edited December 30, 2016
the epiphany of John Wesley- v5
editing original
edited January 10, 2016
the epiphany of John Wesley – v4
(merging edits to original and version 3)
edited January 16, 2015
the epiphany of John Wesley – v3
(merging edits to version 1 and version 2)
edited January 8, 2015
the epiphany of John Wesley – v2
January 6, 2015
the epiphany of John Wesley
“I felt my heart strangely warmed.”
John Wesley’s Journal
May 24, 1738,
describing what happened to him at Aldersgate
about Martin Luther’s response to reading Romans
&
June 16, 2013
Annual Conference
New England United Methodist Church
2013 Theme: Strangely Warmed; Formed by God
“Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening scripture to us?”
--Luke 24:13-35 led by Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar
sermons:
-         “Recognizing the Holy”, 6/13/2013 (by Reverend Hand),
o   reflection on Luke 24:13-35, the Walk to Emmaus
-         “Episcopal Address, 6/13/2013 (by Bishop Devadhar)
-         “A Word about Work” , 6/14/2013 (by Reverend Hand)
o   reflection on Luke 10:25-37
-         “Do you see . . . ?”, 6/14/2013 (by Bishop Devadhar)
o   reflection on Luke 7:36-50
Conference Preacher – Rev. Stephanie Moore Hand –
June 12, 2013 to June 15, 2015

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, and 2017. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 44,110 of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ, Faith, God, grace, love, Savior, Methodist, Suncook United Methodist Church, Spirit, Father, Son, NEUMC, justice, inclusion, Luke 24, Emmaus, mercy, Luke 10, Luke 7, joy,

#faith #God #Christ #love #grace #Savior #servant #witness #Spirit #NEUMC #justice #Luke24 #Emmaus #Luke10 #Luke7

==============

Aldersgate, Christ, Epiphany, Faith, God, grace, John Wesley, love, UMC, Pastor Ruth Foss, prayer, Methodist, savior, Stetson Memorial United Methodist Church, strangely warmed, works, Spirit, Martin Luther, Romans,

#Christ #God #grace #works #love #UMC #Savior #Matthew2 #Magi #Luke2 #Epiphany #JohnWesley #Methodist #Aldersgate #justified #Spirit

Holy Fire

Holy Fire
Spirit of Pentecost
burn bright within me
my heart, my hands,
my voice

Guide me, teach me,
transform my way
let me be like them
and spread your light
your love to all, I pray

Holy Fire,
flames of the Spirit
the fingers of God
mold me, change me
make me a vessel of your love

Use me, as you see fit
let me be your servant
your hands and your feet
Let me be your voice
here in this wilderness


June 2, 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

With Power

With power they would preach
these timid souls reborn
the flames of Pentecost
falling down from heaven
the world to bring to thee

A wonder to behold
these men speaking in different tongues
the heart of many were transformed
by the one message
which they preached

The love of God
through the message of the Son
filled with the Spirit
the meek became lions
to share the word of God

So, we, each one
in our time and place
must be like them
those timid souls empowered
and step out in our faith


June 2, 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

God’s Power

God’s power
coming down from above
roaring from heaven
on the wings of a dove

Filling their hearts
with flames from on high
leading them all
to preach to the skies

Changing the world
one heart at a time
spreading God’s love
to your heart and mine

Flames from heaven
reaching each heart
in that one room in Jerusalem
the church had its start


June 2, 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

All in One Place

At the birth, they were all in one place
waiting for the one who had been promised by Christ
Flames of the Spirit descending upon them
tongues they did not know to spread His love to all

A church born, from the seeds of that place
planted into every heart who hears of his love
Washed in the water, saved by his blood
filled with the Spirit, led by his love

Sending the flames
from that one place in time
to the ends of the earth
and to your heart and mine


June 2, 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

Unquenchable Fire

God’s Spirit, unquenchable fire
burning within all of us
flames of Pentecost living today
The love of the Father,
in the story of the Son
The Spirit to guide us
in the way of the Lord
The fire burning,
to the ends of the earth
the flames spreading
since the birth of the church


June 2, 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

Like a Freight Train

Like a steam engine, a freight train
roaring on ethereal tracks in the heavens
the presence of God, the Spirit
over the house where they were gathered

A cloud of flames, descending on each one
falling, onto, into, each one of their hearts
Words of love, words of power
in tongues they did not know

Speaking to those
who came into their midst
Words shared,
of the story of the Christ

A message of love,
shared in languages unknown
spreading the flames
like a brush fire


June 2, 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

Fire, Germinating Fire

The seeds of the creator
planted in our hearts
germinated by the fire
the Spirit working
to transform us from within

Fire, germinating fire
burn within my beating heart
give me words to share
your love to the world

Spirit growing
the days of my life
feed me with
the power of your word

Change me, make me anew
a vessel worthy to serve you
transform my timid soul
to speak power
to change the world


June 2, 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

Shaking the House

The wind, the Spirit of God
shaking the house, the gathering place
the sanctuary of the church
the place of the faithful, the disciples

Transforming them, together, each one
a prophet, a leader, from the sheep of his fold
the fire within, burning bright
pressing them to share his light

Shaking too, the foundations of the world
for the world would never be the same
the fire, the message, spreading
to all who hunger, to the ends of the earth

A movement, a spreading, the fire still at work
burning in the saints, from age to age
tongues of fire, alive in each heart
opening a way for the flame to leave its mark


June 2, 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

Language of Love

The words they spoke
in a tongues they did not know
the message of God
a language of love

Speaking where once
they could not
bolding proclaiming
the story of Christ

Sharing the one
who came down to this place
with all there gathered
and to the ends of the earth


June 2, 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

Language of God

No matter the tongue
speaking the language of God
boldly preaching, sharing
His message of love

On Pentecost and ever since that day
emboldened by the Spirit, indwelling within
a seed of God’s love planted
in each believer’s heart

Saved by the one
who came to this earth
emboldened by the Spirit
to carry on His work


June 2, 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 Other Languages

In tongues unknown,
in other tongues they spoke
a single message of hope, of love
of the saving by grace,
the gift of the Christ
the lessons of his life
the proof of the fulfillment
the Messiah come

In other languages
God’s love revealed
a church born
and a world transformed
the message of the Savior
the one who came to earth
the church growing
at its very birth


June 2, 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

Given Power

In that moment, the church born
given power, by the breath of God
the roaring flames, descending
touching flames upon them
planting seeds of power
within them, each of them
in their beating hearts

The same seeds, the word of God
planted within you and within me
written on our hearts
the Spirit of the flames
the fire of that day
burning still,
to this very day


June 2, 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

Flames of Power

Flames of Power
changing, burning clean
converting the timid
the disciples hiding in the room

Bolding going, out into the world
speaking with power
from the flames burning within

From that room, hidden alone
a church growing
to an end foretold

Flames of power changing the world
living within them, within us
spreading the fire
in the living of the word


June 2, 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

All Together

The faithful, the disciples
the followers of Christ
all together, all in one place
waiting for the promise
power from above

The Spirit coming
like the roar of thunder
shaking them, trembling
filled with wonder

In tongues of fire
the blessing they received
speaking in words
they could not believe

Spreading his message
the love of God
to each living heart
tending the garden
a harvest to grow


June 2, 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

Inner Strength

God’s power within us
the fire of Pentecost
His love brought to earth
to dwell in our hearts

the Spirit burning inside
guiding our days
helping us share his love
in intimate ways


June 2, 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

Within My Heart

A fire burning,
glowing within me
Spirit indwelling in my heart
the fire of my soul
Giving me words to share
of the power of God’s love
and the call we all share
to spread his message
so all will know his love


June 2, 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

Growth in the Flames

There is growth in the flames
the transforming fire of the Spirit
changing the course of our lives
listening to the voice of God
the Spirit burning within us
guiding our way, if we turn to him
growing stronger,
in our walk on this earth
Finding our voice
in the power of God


June 2, 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

Embers Glowing

The smoldering embers
the planting of the law, the teachings
your holy word, your hands forming each of us
deep within, in the recesses
the silent places of our hearts

Embers glowing, the fire of the Spirit
burning white, new, changing us
transforming followers, disciples
Leaders, teachers,
messengers of your love

Embers a fire, a burning within
to share your love, your gift of grace
the Holy Spirit burning
giving fire to our faith
and passion to our praise


June 2, 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

One Congregation

From that one congregation
the whole church gathered
that one room
filled with the faithful

Tongues of fire
roaring from above
landing on each one
filling them with your love

Down through the ages
from their hearts to ours
the church growing
fill us Holy Spirit


June 2, 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

From One House Church

In the beginning,
they were gathered
all together there, waiting
as he had commanded, waiting

The Spirit coming,
like the rush of wind
roaring across the sky

Like the tongues of fire
each one resting, falling
changing them forever

From one house church
the world transformed
one heart at a time
the Spirit within


June 2, 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

The Seeds of Pentecost

The fire of your love, the roaring Spirit
falling upon us, into our hearts
the seeds of Pentecost
planted within us
changing us, transforming, conforming
giving us power,
passion, a conviction
to do the master’s will,
to go when we are called
seeds growing, day by day
fed by your word, nurtured by your saints
rising up within us, to do what we can
in our time, in our place
our part of the world,
planting seeds ourselves
from the wellspring of our hearts
the bit of the Spirit
living within you and me


June 2, 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

White Hot

The flames, the fire of the Spirit
burning within us,
embers, seeds, planted deep within
the breath of God
blowing on the embers within us
fanning the fire deep inside
white hot, fire of your love
changing us,
when we conform to your will
together white hot
the embers as one
the church a fire
burning with your love


June 2, 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

Sharing the Fire

It is the sharing,
the fire of Pentecost
the Spirit descending
the believers apostles
given voice, given power

The church growing,
from the seed of that place
planted, the fire burning within
urging them, changing us
to share the good news

In tongues they did not know
to lands they would go
Sharing the fire,
the transforming Spirit
to the ends of the earth


June 2, 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

The Gift of the Counselor

Beyond imagination, the words
words we cannot find
a voice, a groan, sighs from within
He is there, the gift of the counselor
from the depths
speaking to God, sharing with him
in our prayers, in our weakness
His strength to carry on
to strive after the things of God
within us, beating with our hearts
the Spirit indwelling within
begun on the day of fire
the birth of our church
hope in our faith


June 2, 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

The Watering

To each, tasks to perform
tilling, scattering, seeding, planting
watering, weeding, pruning
tending the garden, the work of other hands
each of us together, caring
nurturing the fields for the harvest

Watering that which others planted
caring for their labors,
joining those who went before
faithfully doing our part
planting, watering,
relying on God for the growth
the transformation
of each human heart


June 2, 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

Watering the Seeds

We are given seeds to plan
but there are seeds to water too
those planted before our time
some growing within ourselves
all part of God’s plan,
the spreading of the message of love
started on that fateful day, Pentecost

The church the workers,
the field the earth
sowing the seeds of His love
tending the seeds, one by one
watering the seeds
so they may grow strong
to bear seeds, fruits
to be shared in other gardens
one by one, each human heart


June 2, 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

Spreading Our Seeds

Seeds and fertilizer, to be shared
spreading our seeds in our time

We are commissioned by God
working together
the Word and our actions

Holy work, faithful servants
workers watering that which is scattered
that which is planted, in each heart

Planting, watering, not knowing which
the work we are doing, part of His plan

Actions, human action,
caring for others, watering

Faithful actions, humble souls;
but filled with the Spirit
power and love to share


June 2, 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 Our Daily Lives

Not to the ends of the earth
those in our daily lives
Here is the fertile soil
the tilled fields
ripe for the planting
hungry soil, rich and good;
Planting, watering in its season
Flames, of the Spirit
burning brightly in this place
the field, the vine
ready to bear fruit


June 1, 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

Spirit of Illumination

Spirit of truth,
spirit of fire

Fall upon me
illumine me, guide me

Show me your way
the path you would have me walk

Speak to me
deep within my heart

Land upon me,
burn me clean

Use me Lord
to spread the fire of Your love.


June 1, 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

A Call to the Spirit

Our prayer, this day, in worship
an entering in, a call to the Spirit
Sharing words together, as one voice
reverberating deep within our souls

Calling to the Spirit, here, now
to fall, flames resting upon us
power to speak, words of love
burning in each listening heart


June 1, 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

Set Ablaze

Would that we would see
all the world, to the ends of the earth
Set ablaze by the seeds of Pentecost.

Fire of the Spirit
spread by your people
stoked by your word
fed by your love

Holy Fire
touching each heart
fanned by the breath of God

Seeds opening in the fire
grow within us
empowering us, different tongues
to share your words of love


June 1, 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

Seeds

Seeds scattered, planted
watered by fire

Flames of the Spirit
giving us life

Commissioned, sent
to the ends of the earth

Speaking from deep within
God’s loving, healing word


June 1, 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

Watered by Fire

The seeds planted long ago
deep within our hearts
watered by fire, given life
the birth of the church
the quickening flame
breath of God
touching, resting
landing on each of us
giving power to share
Christ’s message of love.


June 1, 2009 and June 2, 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

Monday, June 01, 2009

Sermon - "A Fire Within!", by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, May 31, 2009, Suncook United Methodist Church, Suncook, NH, Pentecost Sunday

A Fire Within!

Acts 2:1-21
Romans 8:26-27

Ancient Words by Michael W. Smith

The Lord be with you
And also with you
Let us pray…

Creator God in heaven, you who set your children on fire on the day of Pentecost…we pray for that same spirit to fall upon us this day on those gathered here in this church and in all of your churches around the world. Speak to those gathered in your house today so that we may know your will for our lives. We thank you for your ancient words that still guide us today. Speak Lord…your friends are listening…

A reading from the Acts of the Apostles:

Well…this is Pentecost Sunday!!!!! It is one of my favorite celebrations in the Christian calendar. It is the birthday of the church! Without it…we would not have the church as we know it today. It is a day that we celebrate the gift of the Counselor…the Holy Spirit…the promise made to us…the followers of Christ when He ascended into heaven. It is the fire that burns within our hearts that keeps the church growing. It is that unquenchable fire that enables us to do extraordinary things in our ordinary lives for the kingdom of God here on earth. (Amen…Alleluia) I was telling Ray this morning that if he sees me starting to float to the ceiling to get out the tethers.

I have been thinking a lot about Huntley’s sermon last week and about the statement that someone had made about the small church. You know…the statement that “Small village churches like this will soon close”. How can that be? With the Pentecostal fire within the people of the church how can the small church close? You see…I see it like this…that mustard seed thing that Huntley talked about…to me it begins with the Pentecostal fire that is within the church…it’s within this church.

Through this fire…this church reaches out to those in the community. This fire helps us keep an orchard amount of seeds that we can be planting. Whether the church is large or small, it is this fire that makes us courageously step out in faith to do the mission of the church today. How large was the church when it began on that fateful day so long ago? Not that big…only a few good men (and women) but it was these few men and women that went about spreading the seeds of Christ that made the church grow to what it is today. Huntley was right…size doesn’t matter. (We have that fire within)

Let me give you an illustration…yesterday…after they had put in a new sewer system…I was watching the guy put down seed to reseed the lawn. He was using this seed spreader and walking back and forth, spreading the seeds, so that we would have a nice, lush lawn. When I went to talk with him he told me that he had a mixture of seed and fertilizer that he was using in order to reseed the lawn. Well…this got me to thinking about Pentecost Sunday and what it means. Ok…here goes my analogy that I came up with…

1. The Guy on the lawn…this is the Pentecostal fire within each and every one of us. It’s in you and in me…
2. The spreading of the seeds and fertilizer…the seed is the word of God that we share with those around us and the fertilizer is our actions that others see in us that can bring them closer to God.
3. Now the lawn needs to be watered…the lawn (the harvest) may be watered by you or by me or even someone else but the seed needs to be watered by someone. If not…it dies right where it is…it becomes scorched by the sun and produces nothing. It doesn’t have a chance to grow. (we never know if we are planting or watering but if we don’t do it the Word becomes void…it dies right where it is)
4. We need to take great care in our lawn. With the sun it will germinate and grow. (The seeds we spread germinates in the Son by the Son. It is God that makes it grow! When we care for others…the seeds that have been planted germinate and God can then make them grow)

This wonderful gift of Pentecost, the Spirit within us, is the Spirit of God. It enables us to hear God’s voice and guidance. By the power of that same Spirit we can walk on water and not be afraid. We can cry out to the Lord in the midst of our fear for help and step out in faith. You see…we are given the Spirit of power and might. We have that hunger within us to

1. Learn more about God…
2. To study God’s Word...
3. To serve God…
4. To right wrongs…
5. To bring more people into the presence of God

We can come like a child, by the Spirit, into the throne room of grace and not be afraid. (Children aren’t intimidated by limits or risks) We will have the fruits of the Spirit that Paul talks about in Galatians 5:22-26…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, truthfulness, gentleness, and self control (This is one that helps us fight against the temptations of the world). (Are you feeling it...that fire within you...Just waiting to be released.) Fruitiness…when the Spirit is alive in our hearts, the character of God comes into us as the Spirit works to conform us ever more closely to the image and character of Christ.(We have a fire within)

The Spirit helps us in our weakness as the Romans passage told us this morning. I have had those times when I have come before God not knowing how or what to pray. (and I’m sure that some of you have too) I am in such a state that I can’t utter a word and it is this gift of Pentecost that has helped me in my weakness. But…the Spirit not only helps us as we pray in our weakness but in all of our weaknesses. That Spirit…that fire of Pentecost…helps us when…

1. We need words of hope…
2. We need to step out in faith…
3. We need to follow God’s plan for our lives…
4. We need to reach out to those who are “unlovable”…

The list goes on. (We have a fire within)

Well…since we have the fire within…how can we use it for God’s glory you ask? Well…let’s look at what the Apostles did on that glorious day of Pentecost. The scripture tells us that they spoke in people’s native tongue about the greatness of God. This made me stop and think for a moment…How do we speak in others language, in their native tongue so that they can understand about God’s saving grace and love for all? Well one way God speaks to us is in the different translations of the bible. I can’t believe how many there are. But the way that I see it…God speaks to each of us in a different way, by reading a certain translation of the Bible, the Word is broken down in a way that we understand what it is telling us better. By reading this version, that we can understand, we are equipped to share that message to others. ((The fire within is stoked)

One way we can reach others is to meet them when and where they are. We need to speak plainly, in ways that they will understand. Jesus spoke in parables to the people. These parables were for (for the lack of a better analogy) certain types of people. They worked for those whom He was talking to at the time but if he used only one type, there would have been people left out…people who wouldn’t understand the meaning of the parable. He came for the lost and confused sheep not the ones who understood. In order to bring people to an understanding and be saved we must meet them where they are as Jesus did. You see…this fire within…enables us to become God’s servants, Christ’s friends, in order to carry on Christ’s ministry to the world. And as the scripture from Acts tells us, not just men but women as well. (We share that fire within)

Oh Beloved…it’s Pentecost Sunday. Are you feeling that fire within? As John Wesley would say “Are you feeling strangely warmed” this morning? It’s the birthday of the church and there is a lot to celebrate about! My challenge to you is this…go out and share that fire within…spread those seeds of Pentecost so that the world would be set ablaze. Don’t let that fire within you go out as you minister to others in the name of our Risen Lord, Jesus Christ. As the song from Kathy Tricoli states…Take your candle (that fire within you)…go light your world.

AMEN!



==============
edited May 24, 2017
Strangely Warmed – v2

June 2, 2009
Strangely Warmed
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
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
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
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
&
edited December 30, 2016
the epiphany of John Wesley- v5
editing original
edited January 10, 2016
the epiphany of John Wesley – v4
(merging edits to original and version 3)
edited January 16, 2015
the epiphany of John Wesley – v3
(merging edits to version 1 and version 2)
edited January 8, 2015
the epiphany of John Wesley – v2
January 6, 2015
the epiphany of John Wesley
“I felt my heart strangely warmed.”
John Wesley’s Journal
May 24, 1738,
describing what happened to him at Aldersgate
about Martin Luther’s response to reading Romans
&
June 16, 2013
Annual Conference
New England United Methodist Church
2013 Theme: Strangely Warmed; Formed by God
“Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road, while he was opening scripture to us?”
--Luke 24:13-35 led by Bishop Sudarshana Devadhar
sermons:
-         “Recognizing the Holy”, 6/13/2013 (by Reverend Hand),
o   reflection on Luke 24:13-35, the Walk to Emmaus
-         “Episcopal Address, 6/13/2013 (by Bishop Devadhar)
-         “A Word about Work” , 6/14/2013 (by Reverend Hand)
o   reflection on Luke 10:25-37
-         “Do you see . . . ?”, 6/14/2013 (by Bishop Devadhar)
o   reflection on Luke 7:36-50
Conference Preacher – Rev. Stephanie Moore Hand –
June 12, 2013 to June 15, 2015

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, and 2017. All rights are reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 44,110 of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Christ, Faith, God, grace, love, Savior, Methodist, Suncook United Methodist Church, Spirit, Father, Son, NEUMC, justice, inclusion, Luke 24, Emmaus, mercy, Luke 10, Luke 7, joy,

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Aldersgate, Christ, Epiphany, Faith, God, grace, John Wesley, love, UMC, Pastor Ruth Foss, prayer, Methodist, savior, Stetson Memorial United Methodist Church, strangely warmed, works, Spirit, Martin Luther, Romans,

#Christ #God #grace #works #love #UMC #Savior #Matthew2 #Magi #Luke2 #Epiphany #JohnWesley #Methodist #Aldersgate #justified #Spirit