While raking, mowing
gathering them in
the yellow, the red, orange leaves
the wind blowing,
swirling, catching our work
in the opposite direction,
ever so, while raking
blustery fall day
rain in the air
leaves going
everywhere
October 31, 2009
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
A New Day
Born anew, opportunities
a new day dawning, possibilities
so many choices, for good of for ill
our mark on the hours
to be used or frittered away
October 28, 2009 and October 29, 2009
Psalm 118:28
and Day 75, “The Most Important Day”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
a new day dawning, possibilities
so many choices, for good of for ill
our mark on the hours
to be used or frittered away
October 28, 2009 and October 29, 2009
Psalm 118:28
and Day 75, “The Most Important Day”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
Sand – haiku
grit, coarse, slide under foot
wet weight, dry blowing on breezes
the edge of the tide
October 28, 2009 and October 29, 2009
wet weight, dry blowing on breezes
the edge of the tide
October 28, 2009 and October 29, 2009
Snow – haiku - 3
frozen flakes, shiver
cold, wet, beautiful
sparkling structures, gleam
October 28, 2008 and October 29, 2009
cold, wet, beautiful
sparkling structures, gleam
October 28, 2008 and October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Toiling in the fields
Toiling in the fields
in the service of the Lord
going into the wilderness
the world, to spread his love to all
Leading in the church
in the streets, in the halls
going where the savior led
carrying his cross, his joy
to one and all
October 28, 2009
in the service of the Lord
going into the wilderness
the world, to spread his love to all
Leading in the church
in the streets, in the halls
going where the savior led
carrying his cross, his joy
to one and all
October 28, 2009
Faithful Saints
Through the years, the ages
faithful saints, stewards
of our earth, of our faith
passing on, through their labors
the words of our tradition
the calling of our hearts
our scripture, the good news
living out in their lives
in loving service to the king
October 28, 2009
faithful saints, stewards
of our earth, of our faith
passing on, through their labors
the words of our tradition
the calling of our hearts
our scripture, the good news
living out in their lives
in loving service to the king
October 28, 2009
Discerning, through the eyes of faith
A question the world cannot answer
blind to a different measure, a calling
from deep within our hearts
a stirring, the still small voice speaking
words they cannot understand
Discerning, the calling of God
the nature of our path, our cross
gifts we have been given
for the service of the Lord
Discerning, through the eyes of faith alone
a far different measure
like the fishermen, Peter, James and John
heeding a different master
when they left their nets, their lives
to travel with the carpenter
fishers of men instead
October 28, 2009
blind to a different measure, a calling
from deep within our hearts
a stirring, the still small voice speaking
words they cannot understand
Discerning, the calling of God
the nature of our path, our cross
gifts we have been given
for the service of the Lord
Discerning, through the eyes of faith alone
a far different measure
like the fishermen, Peter, James and John
heeding a different master
when they left their nets, their lives
to travel with the carpenter
fishers of men instead
October 28, 2009
The Shroud of Our Humanity
The thick outer garment
the shroud of our humanity
tied to the things of this earth
walking, burdened, heavy laden
so much to carry, day to day
Leaving the weight
the cares and struggles
approaching your cross, your throne
the mantle of the savior
the offering of the son
lifting our burden
so that we may soar
October 27, 2009 and October 28, 2009
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
Isaiah 25:6-9
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for October 27, 2009
by Timothy J. Nadeau
&
Isaiah 40:28-31
the shroud of our humanity
tied to the things of this earth
walking, burdened, heavy laden
so much to carry, day to day
Leaving the weight
the cares and struggles
approaching your cross, your throne
the mantle of the savior
the offering of the son
lifting our burden
so that we may soar
October 27, 2009 and October 28, 2009
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
Isaiah 25:6-9
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for October 27, 2009
by Timothy J. Nadeau
&
Isaiah 40:28-31
Our Dwelling Place
Our dwelling place,
our fortress, our refuge
so is our God.
As he was for the people
wandering in the desert,
in this wilderness land too
our home is in the Lord.
Traveling, through this world
our time upon the earth,
returning to the father
when our work here is done.
October 27, 2009
Psalm 90:1
and Day 73, “Our Eternal Abode”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
our fortress, our refuge
so is our God.
As he was for the people
wandering in the desert,
in this wilderness land too
our home is in the Lord.
Traveling, through this world
our time upon the earth,
returning to the father
when our work here is done.
October 27, 2009
Psalm 90:1
and Day 73, “Our Eternal Abode”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
A Foundation – haiku
under leaves and soil
a foundation of brick, stone
found in verdant woods
October 27, 2009
a foundation of brick, stone
found in verdant woods
October 27, 2009
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 40,970+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Redeemed – haiku – 1
My sin washed away
your cross, your choice of God’s will
unmerited love
October 27, 2009
your cross, your choice of God’s will
unmerited love
October 27, 2009
Leaves – haiku
leaves falling down, down
red, golden, yellow, cold, slow
twirling in the breeze
October 27, 2009
red, golden, yellow, cold, slow
twirling in the breeze
October 27, 2009
Sheets on the Line – haiku
freshly washed, hanging
sheets drying on the line
waving in the winds
October 27, 2009
sheets drying on the line
waving in the winds
October 27, 2009
An Ancient Wall – haiku
crumbling barriers
walls of stone, lichen, moss
out in the forest
October 27, 2009
walls of stone, lichen, moss
out in the forest
October 27, 2009
The Stem, the Root – haiku
not a tree, a stump
a part of the living vine;
continuing line
October 27, 2009
a part of the living vine;
continuing line
October 27, 2009
Before Snow
A feeling in the air
real, perceptible
cold, damp, knowing
sensing the coming
before snow
aware before the flakes
October 27, 2009
real, perceptible
cold, damp, knowing
sensing the coming
before snow
aware before the flakes
October 27, 2009
A Common Creed – haiku
shared faith, she and I
studying together, love
this people of God
October 27, 2009
Ruth and I
sharing Disciple I bible study
studying together, love
this people of God
October 27, 2009
Ruth and I
sharing Disciple I bible study
Redeemed – haiku – 2
My sin washed away
your cross, your choice of God’s will
saved by grace alone
October 27, 2009
your cross, your choice of God’s will
saved by grace alone
October 27, 2009
Blind – haiku
we sit blind, lost, poor
needing the loving touch, Christ
so that we may see
October 27, 2009
needing the loving touch, Christ
so that we may see
October 27, 2009
Clay of the Potter – haiku
man, stuff of the earth
clay for the potter to mold
shaped by his hands
October 27, 2009
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2009/10/clay-of-potter-haiku.html
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,550+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
clay for the potter to mold
shaped by his hands
October 27, 2009
http://raymondafoss.blogspot.com/2009/10/clay-of-potter-haiku.html
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 20,550+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.
Our Cross – haiku
our cross, picked up
when each one submits to God
our lives in his hands
October 27, 2009
when each one submits to God
our lives in his hands
October 27, 2009
Dust on our Sandals – haiku
dust on our sandals
needing to travel, to go
too long in one place
October 27, 2009
needing to travel, to go
too long in one place
October 27, 2009
Approaching the Cross – haiku
Approaching the cross
coming to you on our knees
in awe of your gift
October 27, 2009
coming to you on our knees
in awe of your gift
October 27, 2009
Drinking That Cup – haiku
thinking of your choice
drinking from that bitter cup
how much you love us
October 27, 2009
drinking from that bitter cup
how much you love us
October 27, 2009
Taking on my sin – haiku
The shadow of man
my sin upon your pure heart
God, paying my price
October 27, 2009
my sin upon your pure heart
God, paying my price
October 27, 2009
Forgiveness – haiku
By your holy choice
forgiveness of my stain, sin
made pure by his blood
October 27, 2009
forgiveness of my stain, sin
made pure by his blood
October 27, 2009
through their eyes
not only with their voices
their tongues revealed
the power of Pentecost
the spirit calling us
to speak with their words
in a language they may understand
to see the world
through their eyes
so they may hear
the wondrous message
the gospel real to them
in their hearing and in their sight
October 27, 2009
on reading Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
note to the Facebook posting,
October 27, 2009
of the poem, “In Native Tongues”
their tongues revealed
the power of Pentecost
the spirit calling us
to speak with their words
in a language they may understand
to see the world
through their eyes
so they may hear
the wondrous message
the gospel real to them
in their hearing and in their sight
October 27, 2009
on reading Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
note to the Facebook posting,
October 27, 2009
of the poem, “In Native Tongues”
a new revelation of our Lord
in the sharing, the gospel
through the spirit moving within us,
speaking in words they may understand
in their native tongues
and in the way of our savior
speaking in parables
in words, stories real to them
out of their experience
In doing this, in stepping into their shoes,
speaking with words they may hear
seeing through their eyes
the world revealed anew for us
each of us in the wilderness
out in the world
a new revelation of the Lord
October 27, 2009
on reading Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
note to the Facebook posting,
October 27, 2009
of the poem, “In Native Tongues”
through the spirit moving within us,
speaking in words they may understand
in their native tongues
and in the way of our savior
speaking in parables
in words, stories real to them
out of their experience
In doing this, in stepping into their shoes,
speaking with words they may hear
seeing through their eyes
the world revealed anew for us
each of us in the wilderness
out in the world
a new revelation of the Lord
October 27, 2009
on reading Pastor Ruth L. Foss’
note to the Facebook posting,
October 27, 2009
of the poem, “In Native Tongues”
With His Calloused Hands
Not a member of the elite
never sitting, studying in the Temple
working, with his calloused hands
the nets, the water, this was his life
Beginning the church, this foundation
ordinary men, laity, common
spreading the word
the truth of God’s love
to the ends of the earth
October 26, 2009 and October 27, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
never sitting, studying in the Temple
working, with his calloused hands
the nets, the water, this was his life
Beginning the church, this foundation
ordinary men, laity, common
spreading the word
the truth of God’s love
to the ends of the earth
October 26, 2009 and October 27, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Naming the Christ
Before the others
naming the Christ
heralding his identity
the truth of who he was
within the community
This truth, boldly
the foundation
this shoot of Jesse
son of David
the one who was to come
Messiah, living God
October 26, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Matthew 14:22-33
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
naming the Christ
heralding his identity
the truth of who he was
within the community
This truth, boldly
the foundation
this shoot of Jesse
son of David
the one who was to come
Messiah, living God
October 26, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Matthew 14:22-33
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
In the Face of Their Want
Loving the things we own
in the face of their want
Holding onto our possessions
when others struggle to live
Risking next to nothing
much of the world starving
while we fail to act
October 26, 2009
Faith in Action newsletter,
Word from Winkler, October 21, 2009,
Mark 10:17-31
“Rationalizing the Scripture”
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=frLJK2PKLqF&b=5547293&ct=7600739
&
1 John 2:15-17
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=10&day=12&year=2009
for October 12, 2009,
“Fleeting or Eternal”,
by Pastor Toomas Pajusoo
&
Mark 10:17-31
Mark 1:16-20
& message by Raymond A. Foss,
“What is Your Footprint, Where is Your Treasure,
What is in Your Silo; Whom Will You Follow”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/11/09
&
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/108/
John Wesley’s sermon, “On Riches”
&
Faith In Action newsletter,
Word from Winkler, 9/28/09
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=frLJK2PKLqF&b=5489299&ct=7532533&tr=y&auid=5386346
Congregational malpractice
By Jim Winkler, General Secretary, General Board of Church & Society
& Alive Now daily devotional
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-september-28-october-4/
for September 30, 2009
“An Uncomfortable Nudge”,
by Roland Rink
&
Mark 10:17-31
Alive Now Daily Reflection
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-october-5-11/
for October 10, 2009
&
Alive Now Daily Reflection
“All of You”,
by James Schwarzlose
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-october-5-11/
for October 11, 2009
&
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
Mark 10:17-27
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for October 10, 2009
by Soozung Sa Rankin
&
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
Mark 10:28-31
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for October 11, 2009
by Soozung Sa Rankin
in the face of their want
Holding onto our possessions
when others struggle to live
Risking next to nothing
much of the world starving
while we fail to act
October 26, 2009
Faith in Action newsletter,
Word from Winkler, October 21, 2009,
Mark 10:17-31
“Rationalizing the Scripture”
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=frLJK2PKLqF&b=5547293&ct=7600739
&
1 John 2:15-17
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=10&day=12&year=2009
for October 12, 2009,
“Fleeting or Eternal”,
by Pastor Toomas Pajusoo
&
Mark 10:17-31
Mark 1:16-20
& message by Raymond A. Foss,
“What is Your Footprint, Where is Your Treasure,
What is in Your Silo; Whom Will You Follow”
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/11/09
&
http://new.gbgm-umc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/108/
John Wesley’s sermon, “On Riches”
&
Faith In Action newsletter,
Word from Winkler, 9/28/09
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/apps/nlnet/content.aspx?c=frLJK2PKLqF&b=5489299&ct=7532533&tr=y&auid=5386346
Congregational malpractice
By Jim Winkler, General Secretary, General Board of Church & Society
& Alive Now daily devotional
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-september-28-october-4/
for September 30, 2009
“An Uncomfortable Nudge”,
by Roland Rink
&
Mark 10:17-31
Alive Now Daily Reflection
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-october-5-11/
for October 10, 2009
&
Alive Now Daily Reflection
“All of You”,
by James Schwarzlose
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-october-5-11/
for October 11, 2009
&
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
Mark 10:17-27
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for October 10, 2009
by Soozung Sa Rankin
&
Upper Room Disciplines for 2009
Mark 10:28-31
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=531844
for October 11, 2009
by Soozung Sa Rankin
Comfortable on the Waves
Walking on the waters
before the spirit fell upon him
believing, naming the Christ
the fisherman
and the carpenter
changing the world
comfortable on the waves
October 26, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Matthew 14:22-33
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
before the spirit fell upon him
believing, naming the Christ
the fisherman
and the carpenter
changing the world
comfortable on the waves
October 26, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Matthew 14:22-33
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Monday, October 26, 2009
Devotions – haiku
Scripture and their words
Bringing us closer to God
centering each day
October 26, 2009
Bringing us closer to God
centering each day
October 26, 2009
Clay – haiku
Our hands, our feet, clay
stuck in the mire, the earthly
raised by the potter
October 26, 2009
Jeremiah 18:1-10
&
Psalm 40:2
and Day 67, “Out of the Pit”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
stuck in the mire, the earthly
raised by the potter
October 26, 2009
Jeremiah 18:1-10
&
Psalm 40:2
and Day 67, “Out of the Pit”, in
“Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
http://books.google.com/books?id=9tjVtRt3TUMC&pg=PP1&dq=henry+gariepy&ei=6tqBSqLVDJiQyQT4i9DOCg#v=onepage&q=&f=false
Gifts – haiku
each of us given
special, our own unique gifts
used for the Lord
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
special, our own unique gifts
used for the Lord
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
Dreams - haiku
our dreams of life, hope
walking into your courts, Lord
eternity there
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
walking into your courts, Lord
eternity there
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
Our Call – haiku
Each one answering
a separate call from God
to serve with our gifts
October 26, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Matthew 16:13-19
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
a separate call from God
to serve with our gifts
October 26, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Matthew 16:13-19
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Church – haiku
Our faith from one man
God come to earth for us all
founded on the rock
October 26, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
God come to earth for us all
founded on the rock
October 26, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
How Do We Know
How do we know
when the call is from the Lord
How do we know
when we should
leave our nets and go
Where do we turn
to discern your plan for us
What do we do
when others
question our choice
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
when the call is from the Lord
How do we know
when we should
leave our nets and go
Where do we turn
to discern your plan for us
What do we do
when others
question our choice
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
What will they say
I wonder, what will they say
if I speak the words
the callings on my heart
the steady drumbeat
the musing of the voice
calling from inside of me
What will they say
if I speak the words out loud
what I feel called to do
leading me away
taking me into an unknown
out of the boat
Out onto the waters
the waves, splashing on the boat
What will they say
if I voice my dream out loud?
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
if I speak the words
the callings on my heart
the steady drumbeat
the musing of the voice
calling from inside of me
What will they say
if I speak the words out loud
what I feel called to do
leading me away
taking me into an unknown
out of the boat
Out onto the waters
the waves, splashing on the boat
What will they say
if I voice my dream out loud?
October 26, 2009
Ephesians 3:20
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 296, “Dream Big”
read 10/23/09
&
Jeremiah 29:11-13
&
what was written of me, in May 1978,
in the Stevens High School class will, where it said
“Ray Foss leaves to become the next John Steinbeck”
Sunday, October 25, 2009
A Personal Encounter
A lesson in those early words
after the spirit descended on them
not a sermon or words to teach
his eyes meeting his
The beggar by the temple gate
ignored by others that day
The disciples meeting his gaze
offering words of love and grace
We are to be like those who have gone before
serving our fellow man
giving them hope and comfort
through our works
offering them a helping hand
Meeting their eyes, their yearning hearts
with the gifts the master shared
his love, his grace enough to bring
healing to a troubled world
hope for each woman, each man
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Acts 3:1-10
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
after the spirit descended on them
not a sermon or words to teach
his eyes meeting his
The beggar by the temple gate
ignored by others that day
The disciples meeting his gaze
offering words of love and grace
We are to be like those who have gone before
serving our fellow man
giving them hope and comfort
through our works
offering them a helping hand
Meeting their eyes, their yearning hearts
with the gifts the master shared
his love, his grace enough to bring
healing to a troubled world
hope for each woman, each man
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Acts 3:1-10
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Walking on Water
Unlike the others
huddled in the boat
afraid, frozen by the winds
the waves, crashing on the sides
He went when the master called
walking on the water toward the Lord
fear when the winds would wail
crying for the master’s hand
Trying to be faithful
to heed the shepherd’s voice
a prelude for his work
once the spirit
fell upon him in grace
Leaving the nets by the shore
following the savior’s lead
leaving the boat
for the water’s skin
his faith enough to stand
Called to follow in his steps
the rock upon the waves
to serve our fellow man
in ways revealed by God
Each of us has a part
a gift to do the work
to follow our savior’s way
to pick up our cross and walk
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Matthew 14:22-33
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
huddled in the boat
afraid, frozen by the winds
the waves, crashing on the sides
He went when the master called
walking on the water toward the Lord
fear when the winds would wail
crying for the master’s hand
Trying to be faithful
to heed the shepherd’s voice
a prelude for his work
once the spirit
fell upon him in grace
Leaving the nets by the shore
following the savior’s lead
leaving the boat
for the water’s skin
his faith enough to stand
Called to follow in his steps
the rock upon the waves
to serve our fellow man
in ways revealed by God
Each of us has a part
a gift to do the work
to follow our savior’s way
to pick up our cross and walk
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
& Matthew 14:22-33
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
A Fisherman
A fisherman,
a carpenter
on these we built a church
ordinary men, like all the rest
called to serve the Lord
Out of their comfort zone
into the desert, the wilderness
out on the water
wherever they were called
No education, no standing or station
doing the work of the savior
standing in his place
Speaking truth to the powerful
going in his holy name
Spreading the love,
the word of God
down to our present age
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
a carpenter
on these we built a church
ordinary men, like all the rest
called to serve the Lord
Out of their comfort zone
into the desert, the wilderness
out on the water
wherever they were called
No education, no standing or station
doing the work of the savior
standing in his place
Speaking truth to the powerful
going in his holy name
Spreading the love,
the word of God
down to our present age
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Holy Effort
Our mistakes a blessing
acceptable to the Lord
proof of our efforts
our serving in his name
trying when we are able
again when we miss the mark
He doesn’t ask for the able
the willing is a worthy start
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
acceptable to the Lord
proof of our efforts
our serving in his name
trying when we are able
again when we miss the mark
He doesn’t ask for the able
the willing is a worthy start
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Timid Faith
When we talk of faith
the example of the titans
the pillars, the saints
the leaders before us
Peter, Paul, Mother Teresa
Isaiah, Elijah, John in the river
Abraham, Daniel in the lions’ den
Luther, Martin, John Wesley,
others of our family
all of them
Where is their faith?
Present, in their acts of faith
stepping out of their comfort
going where they are called
None of them half-way
not incremental, not timid faith
Bold, “step-out-of-the-boat,
go-where-you-do-not-know” steps
onto the water, into the streets, the deserts
denying themselves
We too, the same God, the same savior
the same family of faith
called to use our gifts, our strength
the same spirit burning within us
to take up our cross
and find our calling
to step out of the boat
to leave all, and follow the Christ
wherever he may lead
October 25, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Matthew 16:13-19
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
the example of the titans
the pillars, the saints
the leaders before us
Peter, Paul, Mother Teresa
Isaiah, Elijah, John in the river
Abraham, Daniel in the lions’ den
Luther, Martin, John Wesley,
others of our family
all of them
Where is their faith?
Present, in their acts of faith
stepping out of their comfort
going where they are called
None of them half-way
not incremental, not timid faith
Bold, “step-out-of-the-boat,
go-where-you-do-not-know” steps
onto the water, into the streets, the deserts
denying themselves
We too, the same God, the same savior
the same family of faith
called to use our gifts, our strength
the same spirit burning within us
to take up our cross
and find our calling
to step out of the boat
to leave all, and follow the Christ
wherever he may lead
October 25, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Matthew 16:13-19
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Calling us
Calling us, into worship
her voice, rising alone
the words of the prophet
coming through the morning
his promise from God
in the truth of our struggles
but the strength of the Lord
rising up, each of us
claiming the name
children of God
rising up on those strong wings
into the sky, above this earthy toil
renewed, guided
never growing faint
always pressing on
in the work
for which we are called
Her voice, calling us
into worship
with the words of Isaiah
ringing in our ears
October 25, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Matthew 16:13-19
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
her voice, rising alone
the words of the prophet
coming through the morning
his promise from God
in the truth of our struggles
but the strength of the Lord
rising up, each of us
claiming the name
children of God
rising up on those strong wings
into the sky, above this earthy toil
renewed, guided
never growing faint
always pressing on
in the work
for which we are called
Her voice, calling us
into worship
with the words of Isaiah
ringing in our ears
October 25, 2009
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Matthew 16:13-19
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
The love we are given
The love we are given
gifts to be given
to be shared with our neighbors
all we meet on this walk
our time on this earth
The gifts we receive, each unique, special
from the creator, the savior
a song, hope in our lives
washing over us, pouring forth
living waters, our cups
Overflowing, joy this morning
in the sanctuary, in worship
in prayer, together
a community sharing
a smile upon each heart
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& Pastoral Prayer by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
& Choral Response
& Children’s message by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
gifts to be given
to be shared with our neighbors
all we meet on this walk
our time on this earth
The gifts we receive, each unique, special
from the creator, the savior
a song, hope in our lives
washing over us, pouring forth
living waters, our cups
Overflowing, joy this morning
in the sanctuary, in worship
in prayer, together
a community sharing
a smile upon each heart
October 25, 2009
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Ephesians 3:14-20
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& Pastoral Prayer by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
& Choral Response
& Children’s message by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
Three Crosses
On Calvary’s hill
three crosses,
their shadows remain
down through the generations
The three crosses
the sacrifice of the savior;
the choices of the two thieves
like us, each of them sinners
Their choice, the same as we face
to repent and follow Christ
to live our lives in glory
or follow the way of the earth
eternal damnation, like one's fate
October 25, 2009
thought of this morning
with the sharp-edged shadows
in the fall-morning light
three crosses,
their shadows remain
down through the generations
The three crosses
the sacrifice of the savior;
the choices of the two thieves
like us, each of them sinners
Their choice, the same as we face
to repent and follow Christ
to live our lives in glory
or follow the way of the earth
eternal damnation, like one's fate
October 25, 2009
thought of this morning
with the sharp-edged shadows
in the fall-morning light
All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A.
Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011,
2012, 2013. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 22,630+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com
Poetry Where You Live.
Awash with Light
Early-fall-morning light
the church, the stain glass
bathed, awash in light
the sun’s warming rays
flooding the face of the church
welcoming the community
reminding us of his presence
this house of God
red brick aglow
before the azure-fall sky
October 25, 2009
http://wwwsuncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
the church, the stain glass
bathed, awash in light
the sun’s warming rays
flooding the face of the church
welcoming the community
reminding us of his presence
this house of God
red brick aglow
before the azure-fall sky
October 25, 2009
http://wwwsuncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
Power, from the Wealth of His Glory
Power, within us
your spirit oh Lord
out of the wealth of his glory
living within us
strengthening our hearts
Knowing the father’s love
feeling his presence
offering our lives, our bodies
our hands, our feet, our voices
our lives to be used by God
working through us
spreading his message,
our hope, to the world
October 24, 2009 and October 25, 2009
Ephesians 3:14-20
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
&
1 Peter 3:8
Ephesians 4:29
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 297, “Hope is Contagious”
your spirit oh Lord
out of the wealth of his glory
living within us
strengthening our hearts
Knowing the father’s love
feeling his presence
offering our lives, our bodies
our hands, our feet, our voices
our lives to be used by God
working through us
spreading his message,
our hope, to the world
October 24, 2009 and October 25, 2009
Ephesians 3:14-20
Matthew 16:13-19
Isaiah 40:28-31 (Call to Worship)
Worship Theme: “This is not a spectator sport!”
& sermon by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
10/25/09
&
1 Peter 3:8
Ephesians 4:29
book, “Walking with Christ Everyday:
365 daily devotions for men”,
http://www.parable.com/parable/item.Walking-with-Christ-Every-Day-for-Men-Devotional.9781583344774.htm
Day 297, “Hope is Contagious”
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