Saturday, April 10, 2010

Four Blossoms

She has four blossoms
lovingly tended
in the garden of her life
growing with her help
with her guidance
her care and her weeding
up from the earth
growing stronger
following the son
blooming each in turn
though none of them yet complete
all growing in her loving hands
in the garden of her life


April 10, 2010
Copyright by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010
Contact me at Ray Foss
for usage.

Friday, April 09, 2010

Peace on that morning

Hiding, in secret
their lives in confusion
the disciples in the upper room
all together on that morning
hiding, behind locked doors

Peace in the morning
coming in an instant
the risen savior
standing before them
offering them peace

A balm for their ache
made whole by his presence
Christ triumphant
in victory
raised from the dead.


April 9, 2010
John 20:19-23
John 20:19-31
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
“Peace for a Fearful World”,
by Beauty Maenzanise
for April 9, 2010


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

Gathered in the Upper Room

Locked behind doors
the followers together
gathered in the upper room
gripped by their fear

Standing again with them
suddenly in their presence
the risen Lord there
offering the power

Breathing the Spirit
holy, upon them
sending them into the world
to continue the father’s work



April 9, 2010
John 20:19-23
John 20:19-31
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
“Peace for a Fearful World”,
by Beauty Maenzanise
for April 9, 2010


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,920+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Letting them Rest

Even in driving by
feeling the sense of relief
Letting them rest
the dead buried in the ground
covering their graves
A bit more commotion
the sound of the trucks
giving them perpetual care
honoring our dead


April 9, 2010
Pembroke Street Cemetery
Pembroke, NH
finally being cleared of downed trees
after the windstorm of
February 26-27, 2010




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

Thursday, April 08, 2010

Through the Locked Doors

Nothing could contain him
this, the risen Christ
appearing to the believers
to steel their troubled souls

Coming to them
at the empty tomb
on the road
and through locked doors

Telling them he loved them
that he truly lives
walking once more on the earth
raised from the grave for us

Rising up to glory
the risen savior living
our hands, our feet are his
going to the ends of the earth

To spread the good news
by his sacrifice, he has bought us,
victory over sin and death
we may live eternally with him


April 8, 2010
Luke 24:36-49
Mark 16:9-14
John 20:19-22
John 20:23-31
John 20:19-31
and
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010


&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

Steeling the Timid

The risen Christ
coming to the disciples
even entering
through locked doors
steeling the timid
that they would believe
to spread the good news
to the whole world

We, like them,
needing to believe
to do our part in our time
to spread the message
of God’s love
hope for all
of mankind


April 8, 2010
Luke 24:36-49
Mark 16:9-14
John 20:19-22
John 20:23-31
John 20:19-31
and
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010


&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

One Life for Many

Beyond our comprehension
more than we can understand
the cost of his sacrifice
one life for many
saving all of humanity
such is God’s love for us

Giving his son for our lives
letting him go to the cross
grace beyond reason
unmerited love
saving us by his sacrifice
one life for all of mankind
bringing us home to him


April 8, 2010
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010


&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

Salvation through the Cross

Not by our works
trying to live by the law
all of us falling short
only by the grace of our Lord
salvation through the cross

God the father
sacrificing the son
humble, as a lamb
taking on the weight of our sin
that we may live again

Holy is he
who came as a man
dying for speaking the truth
going to the cross
to set us free
new life in victory


April 8, 2010
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010


&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

God Turning His Back

Was the darkness
beginning at noon
the shadow of God
God turning his back
unable to watch his son
tortured and dying
there on the cross
convicted by evil men
judged for speaking the truth
yet healing the sins of man

The darkness hung heavy
beneath the glowering sky
the earth trembled
shaken to the core
when the savior died
God sacrificing his son
that we may live again
Descending to the dead
in Sheol for two days
before rising in victory


April 8, 2010
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010

&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday

&
Holy Saturday
Luke 23:56b

&
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50,55,56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There…
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4

&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010

&
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Matthew 20:26
meditation on John 13:1-17, 31b-35
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
meditation on Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14 and the events of Good Friday
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 1, 2010
Maundy Thursday

&
Mark 11:1-11
Psalm 118:21-29
Worship Theme: “What’s up with a man on a donkey?”
and sermon, “What’s The Big Deal?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
the fifth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 28, 2010
Palm Sunday



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

Secret Followers

Like Joseph and Nicodemus
coming silently
only after
standing up to power
carrying for the now-dead Christ
too timid to follow him
in the light of day

Needing to proclaim our faith
to be his witnesses
to the ends of the earth
for a world
broken and hurt
filled up with sin
needing his loving grace


--------------------
edited February 7, 2016
Secret Followers – v2

April 8, 2010
Secret Followers
John 19:38-42
Matthew 27:57-61
Mark 15:42-47
Luke 23:50-56
and
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010
&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday

All of my poems, photographs, and videos are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,960+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.


Nothing We Carry

Needing to be mindful
as we walk this mortal coil
the burdens we carry
nothing as the Lord

Nothing we carry
can compare with him
the cross of Jesus
all of human sin

Needing to remember
what Christ did for us
strength for our daily struggle
in the grace he gave to us


April 8, 2010
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010


&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

Nothing We Carry

Needing to be mindful
as we walk this mortal coil
the burdens we carry
nothing as the Lord

Nothing we carry

can compare with him
the cross of Jesus
all of human sin

Needing to remember

what Christ did for us
strength for our daily struggle
in the grace he gave to us


April 8, 2010
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth Foss
A Handmaiden of the Lord
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010


&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
A Handmaiden of the Lord
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 21,770+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Willing to Sacrifice

God the Father and the Son
willing to sacrifice
Christ descending to the earth
to save us from our sin

Walking with us
as a man, made of claim
understanding our lives
showing us a better way

Righteous before God
submitting to his will
the unblemished lamb
going to the cross

The father giving the son
because of his love for us
by the grace of his sacrifice
we are brought home again


April 8, 2010
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010


&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

The Burden of the World

In the cup of the garden
drinking of the suffering
the burden of the world
taken upon his shoulders

Taking on the weight
sin of all humanity
laid upon the lamb
becoming the sacrifice

Christ, in his passion
for this he came to earth
humble as a child
beginning in a manger

Wrapped in swaddling clothing
a servant all of his life
offered in our place
going to the cross
healing us utterly



April 8, 2010
Meditation service
after Our Family’s Table
weekly community dinner
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
April 7, 2010

&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
https://twitter.com/PastorRuthFoss
http://www.facebook.com/pastorruthfoss
http://www.ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com
http://pastorruth.posterous.com/
A Handmaiden of the Lord
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.suncookumc.org
http://facebook.com/groups/136632035559/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Suncook-United-Methodist-Church/102221356487965
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 19,920+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

Authentic Generosity

In God is our model,
how to live
answering when we ask
our true friend
giving us so much
more than we can comprehend

Opening the door
when we knock for him
allowing us to enter in
teaching us how to share
how to be a true friend

Following his example
offering ourselves to them
to our neighbors in need
answering their prayers
being Christ for them.


April 7, 2010
Luke 11:5-11
John 13:35
and
Upper Room Daily Devotional
http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/default.asp?month=4&day=7&year=2010
for April 7, 2010, read April 7, 2010
“When God Calls”,
by Jim Opalek




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

Unbound by History

Before the beginning
beyond the end
in God, in Christ
unbound by history
in his alone we rise

Redeemed by his precious blood
out of his infinite love
shared for a time on the earth
walking as a man
coming again to take us home
in him our victory


April 7, 2010
Revelations 1:4-8
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-5-11/
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 7, 2010


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

Proclaiming His Message

Each of us commissioned, a priest
going out like Jesus
proclaiming his message
preaching, to the ends of the earth
witnesses to his love.

Dying on Calvary
washing us clean
free from all of our sin
saved by his blood

Going forth to spread the word
He will come again
to raise from the dead
to gather us home to God.


April 7, 2010
Revelations 1:4-8
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-5-11/
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 7, 2010


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

Giving His Son

Loving us so much
we his earthly children
born with feet of clay
the treasure of the creator
loved especially

Given such favor
though we sin against him
sacrificing such a gift
giving his son
that we may be reclaimed

So freely, at such an awful cost
the father and the son
each a party to the choice
the baby son of Mary
Given to us by God


April 7, 2010
John 3:16
and
Day 197, “The Gospel in a Nutshell”, 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
for April 7, 2010
read April 7, 2010


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

Rice Paper Blossoms

Dying crocuses
glorious in their fading
becoming transparent
in the mid-day sun

Like rice paper blossoms
or ones of thin phyllo dough
dying ever so graciously
at the foot of the cross



April 7, 2010




































edited November 16, 2015
Rice Paper Blossoms – v14

(editing original)
edited May 2, 2015
Rice Paper Blossoms – v13
(editing original)
edited March 21, 2015
Rice Paper Blossoms – v12
(editing version 9)
edited November 8, 2014
Rice Paper Blossoms – v11
edited February 11, 2014
Rice Paper Blossoms – v10
Edited October 15, 2013
Rice Paper Blossoms – v9
(editing original again)
Edited October 10, 2013
Rice Paper Blossoms – v8
(editing version 3)
Edited August 23, 2013
“Rice Paper Blossoms – v7”
(editing the original)
Edited August 15, 2013
“Rice Paper Blossoms – v6”
Edited August 3, 2013
“Rice Paper Blossoms – v5”
Edited July 26, 2013
“Rice Paper Blossoms – v4”
Edited July 26, 2013
“Rice Paper Blossoms – v3”
Edited July 24, 2013
“Rice Paper Blossoms – v2”
April 7, 2010
“Rice Paper Blossoms”

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,090+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Wait Until Next Year

The calendar says a little early
but the dandelions are up
the crocuses past their prime
soon the lilies will be up

Wait until next year
the sleds seem to say
dejectedly they hope
for a little bit of snow

Spring taking hold
the warmth unbelievable
the high for today
predicting eighty-four

The coats changing to sweaters
soon short-sleeves alone
man this warmth is wonderful
I sure don’t miss the cold

April 7, 2010





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

Tuesday, April 06, 2010

Like a cloud

Like a cloud
surrounding us
descended from heaven
the grace of our Lord
waiting for us
to turn to him

Away from the world
our lives turned over
aware that we
need the Lord
saving alone from him

Ready when we come
humbly to our father
arms open wide
to receive us in
back in his arms
part of the family


April 6, 2010
prevenient grace
and
Luke 15:8-10
Luke 15:11b-32
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for March 8, 2010 to March 14, 2010,
“Your History: A Valuable Past”,
by Steve Barse
for March 14, read March 15, 2010


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

Changed by the Spirit – V2

Acting on their faith
victory in Jesus
changed by the Spirit
proclaiming the good news

Declaring boldly
acting without doubt
a message to save the world
Jesus died for us

Changed forever
needing to act like shepherds
fields ready for harvest
needing to be tended

All of us like the first of them
no longer timid, our sins wiped away,
needing to shout from the rooftops
Christ is risen,
each one a blessed day!



April 6, 2010
Acts 5:27-28
Acts 5:29-32
Acts 5:27-32
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010,
“Peace for a Fearful World”,
by Beauty Maenzanise
for April 5, 2010, read April 6, 2010
and for April 6, 2010



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 20,620+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Changed by the Spirit

Acting on their faith
victory in Jesus
changed by the Spirit
proclaiming the good news

All of us like the first of them
no longer timid
needing to shout from the rooftops
Christ is risen!

Changed forever
needing to act like shepherds
fields ready for harvest
needing to be tended

Declaring boldly
acting without doubt
a message to save the world
Jesus died for us



April 6, 2010
Acts 5:27-28
Acts 5:29-32
Acts 5:27-32
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010,
“Peace for a Fearful World”,
by Beauty Maenzanise
for April 5, 2010, read April 6, 2010
and for April 6, 2010



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 20,620+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Spreading the Good News – V2

Unbowed to those who would oppress us
unwilling to be silenced
risking all, as our savior did
spreading the good news of God

Defeating death, forgiving our sin
reclaiming us from hell
giving us new life in him
a story for us to tell

Going to the ends of the earth
shining light into every dark place
hope for a world hurt and suffering
the good news of God’s grace

Saved by his mighty gift
something we can never repay
unearned and unmerited
proven on Easter day


April 6, 2010
Acts 5:27-28
Acts 5:29-32
Acts 5:27-32
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010,
“Peace for a Fearful World”,
by Beauty Maenzanise
for April 5, 2010, read April 6, 2010
and for April 6, 2010



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

Spreading the Good News

Unbowed to those who would oppress us
unwilling to be silenced
risking all, as our savior did
spreading the good news of God

Defeating death, forgiving our sin
reclaiming us from hell
giving us new life in him
a story for us to tell


April 6, 2010
Acts 5:27-28
Acts 5:29-32
Acts 5:27-32
and
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=645177&whichBarItem=excerpt&category=&sub_category=
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010,
“Peace for a Fearful World”,
by Beauty Maenzanise
for April 5, 2010, read April 6, 2010
and for April 6, 2010


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

Wanting Tangible Proof

How like Thomas
unable to believe
needing some tangible proof
of God’s love for him
needing to touch his side

But too, in the modern age
unwilling to stop, to listen
God’s voice speaking
from within us
if we would only hear

Oppression and injustice
stalking the earth
all over the world
brought into our homes
all around the dial

Cries of the children,
those in abject poverty
suffering so great
the weight of our sin
all of humanity

Proofs before us
our neighbors around us
the need for loving deeds
so much we could do
if we offered our hands to God


April 6, 2010
John 20:19-31
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-5-11/
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 6, 2010



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

Showing All of Them

Not just Thomas
needing to see to believe
showing all of them
his hands and his sides
that he was crucified

The limits of our faith
bound like them are we
needing to see to believe
though our master is with us
beating within our hearts

Like the lessons of the Lord
to believe is to see
on faith alone we go forth
to the ends of the earth
to finish our Master’s work


April 6, 2010
John 20:19-31
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-5-11/
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 6, 2010



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

Ever to Your Cross

Rising in victory,
rising from the dead
defeating sin and death
our immortal head

Ever to your cross
where you died for me
cleaving to the Christ
may I ever be

Listening to the Spirit
your voice from within
beating in my heart
telling me where to begin

Going as I am sent
just as all before me
spreading the good news of Christ
to a world yoked to sin

Ever to your cross
where you died for me
repenting of my sin
that I truly may be free


April 6, 2010
Holy Week
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-april-5-11/
for April 5, 2010 to April 11, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 5, 2010, read April 6, 2010
“Ruler of Heaven, by Susan L. Gleason



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

God Dying

Not a man, alone,
on the rugged cross
hanging in suffering
the lamb, God dying
nailed to the tree

The incomprehensible act
fullness of love sublime
wanting us to come back to him
paying our penalty

Going as a servant
humble, as a lamb
the sacrifice for our sin
marked for death before he was born
descending to earth just for this


April 6, 2010
John 1:29
John 1:29-30
1 Peter 1:19
1 Peter 1:18-21
and
Day 195, “Lamb of God”, 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
for April 5, 2010
read April 6, 2010



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

A different beating of the heart

When we come to believe
turning from the world
born anew in the word
leaving our past behind

Changed completely, utterly,
a different beating of the heart
following the path laid out for us
doing the will of God


April 6, 2010
John 3:7
John 3:1-21
John 3:1-8
2 Corinthians 5:17
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
and
Day 196, “Born Again”, 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
for April 6, 2010
read April 6, 2010


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

Appearing to Them

Christ on that road
more of the Easter story
not just the tomb empty
Christ appearing to them

Walking with them
sorrowful, dejected
not knowing what to believe
their Lord presumed dead

The rising of the savior
from the earthly grave
amazing to them both
more than they could understand

Awareness in the breaking of the bread
Christ giving himself for us
running back to the upper room
to share the good news with them


April 6, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday

&
Luke 24:13-35
Walk to Emmaus



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

Sermon - "Victory in Jesus", by Pastor Ruth L. Foss, April 4, 2010, Suncook United Methodist Church, Suncook, NH, Easter Sunday

Pastor Ruth Foss
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday
Suncook UMC
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24 (NIV)
Mark 16:1-6 (NIV)

“Victory in Jesus”

The Lord be with you

And also with you

Let us pray…

Loving, Compassionate, Forgiving God, we thank you for this Resurrection Morn. We thank you that you loved humankind so much that you sent your son, Jesus Christ, to die in our stead. You wanted a relationship with your creation and this was the only way to have that. We thank you that you raised Him from the dead so that we could have new life in Him. Be with us now as we hear the word you would have for us this day. May we truly be a Resurrection people for your glory. Speak Lord…your servants, your children and friends are listening…

Well . . . here we are. We have been through Holy week. We have been from a triumphant entry into Jerusalem to the Passover meal. We have been from the garden to the cross. We have been joyful and sorrowful this week. And now . . . we are at that first Easter morn. Ok . . . I am going to need help with my sermon this morning from you. When I say Christ is Risen, I want you to say He is Risen indeed. Now I am not talking about a melancholy type of response from you, I want you to say it with feeling. I want you to shout it from the roof tops. Are you ready? Christ is Risen! He is Risen indeed!

I want us to look at that fateful day . . . that day when we survey the cross. When Jesus died on the cross, at first glance it looked like evil had conquered good. All who surveyed the cross saw a man dying . . . an innocent man convicted of crimes He did not commit. This Messiah, as the people thought of Him, did nothing to free His people. All He did was go about teaching a new, radical way of life. But there was so much more than the eye can see in this situation.

You see . . . we cannot appreciate Easter until we have been to Calvary’s Cross, until we have been there the week before. It is not until we see the ugliness of the past couple of days, until we have been in the darkest place, then, and only then, can we see the beauty of the first Resurrection Morn. Let’s go back to Friday, two hours before sunset, the beginning of the Sabbath day.

Jewish regulations said that there could be no work done on the Sabbath, therefore, no one could bury a person on that day. Pilate had ordered that all the prisoners that were crucified legs be broken to speed up the dying process. This was at the petition of the Religious leaders, the Jewish authorities. They didn’t want any of the bodies still hanging on the cross. Things needed to be done to get the bodies ready for burial and there was little time left, only a small window of opportunity.

Joseph of Arimathea stepped up to the plate and asked Pilate for Jesus’ body. Joseph was a secret disciple of Jesus. He had not agreed with the plan of the council even though he too was of that same council. He was afraid of the Jews and what they might do if they found out he was a follower of “The Way” (as they called it back then). This shows us that it was not just the least, last and forgotten that were followers of Jesus.

Nicodemus, also a secret disciple of Jesus, helped Joseph by bringing the burial spices needed for Jesus’ burial. They had to work fast . . . they had no time for a “full burial”. Jesus was prepared by cleaning His body and wrapping Him in clean linen cloth. Jesus was put in Joseph’s very own burial cave. This got me to thinking, how am I like Nicodemus and Joseph? When am I a “secret disciple” of Jesus? When do I keep quiet when I should speak up for what is right? When do I go along just to get along? In what ways do I dishonor the cross?

And where were the disciples at this time? Why weren’t they there to help bury their teacher? Why was it just these two men, these secret disciples, and two women named Mary there at Jesus’ “grave site”? The Gospel’s tell us that they were behind locked doors, afraid to come out, afraid of what might happen to them if they did. Would they too suffer the same fate as Jesus? John tells us that they had been behind locked doors since Friday when they fled from the scene of Jesus’ death. It may have even been in the same room in which hours earlier they had shared a Passover meal with the Master.

These disciples must have been riddled with guilt and despair. Jesus, they believed, was the Messiah. He was going to take the world by storm. He was going to free His people from oppression. Now their Messiah was dead. Their hope was gone. They had left everything to follow Jesus. They knew God was with Him by the things he did when alive. How could this have happened? Did they question God and His reasoning of things? The evil that these righteous men had done seemed to have won over the good that Jesus did in life. How would you have felt if you had been in their shoes?

Here we are now at Saturday. What was happening on this day? None of the Gospels really talk about what was happening Saturday, nothing about what happened after Jesus’ death, after He was buried in the tomb. Well . . . it is believed that Jesus descended into Sheol, into Hell, and proclaimed the good News there to them so that they too may believe and have redemption, a place in Heaven. This belief would point to the love and depth of Jesus’ passion for reaching those who are alienated from God.

Now we get to Sunday morning . . . the third day! Let’s see what Mark has to say about this Resurrection Morn . . . (Read Mark16:1-6)

This resurrection thing, this being alive after death, it is something hard to grasp. The Gospels tell us that it was hard for the disciples to believe at first. The men and women found it hard to believe, these people who saw Him after His death, alive and with them. It is a no wonder that it is so much harder for people twenty centuries later, having not seen the empty tomb or Jesus with their own eyes.. the disciples saw him, walked and talked with Him, He was not a ghost but alive. Christ is Risen! Jesus told them to go out and proclaim the Good news and make disciples. Baptize them, teach them, and even though they did not see Him, he would always be with them who believe. This not only goes for the first disciples but also to all disciples for ages to come until the end of age. It is an assurance for them and for us to day. We never walk alone. Christ is Risen!

After their encounter with the Risen Lord, they no longer hid behind locked doors. They were radically changed. They were empowered and full of hope, they were anointed and appointed, because of this encounter with Jesus and we too are changed when we accept Christ’s gift of salvation. Christ is the victor over sin and death and we too can be victorious. What Jesus went through for us shows us God’s power and victory over death and powers of evil and sin that alienates us from God, and we by faith share this same victory through Jesus Christ!

I like how Adam Hamilton puts it in his book 24 Hours That Changed the World. I’ll paraphrase it for you, it is like God entered the boxing ring with evil and evil was winning. God took a real bad beating from the enemy but when it looked like the match was all over and seemed lost, Jesus rose and in His Resurrection dealt a finishing blow to evil, sin and death. A full bodied “KO” and became victor. Christ is Risen! Because Jesus was victorious, humankind can join forces with Him and can live a life of hope, freedom and love if we but chose a contender to side with.

Jesus’ resurrection confirmed the meaning of His death. This Resurrection Morn brought about the forgiveness of sin. It’s God’s sign of victory over death, it’s a sign of God’s love, it’s a sign of a restored and renewed relationship with God, and it’s a sign of hope and peace.

It’s Resurrection Morn. Christ is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!

Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage. See all 35,080+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

On the Second Day

Now that the news is sinking in
Christ risen from the dead
the challenge for each disciple
changed by this fact

Going where we are called
spreading the word of love
our sins have been washed clean
by his holy blood

We are raised from the dead with him
no longer fearing the grave
the end of our days on earth
a doorway to paradise


April 6, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

The Joy of Sunday

The joy of Sunday
Christ risen from the tomb
stunned by his victory
rising from the dead

Flinging open the doors
happy at the revelation
Christ our Lord is risen
spread the good news!


April 6, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

Melancholy of Saturday

Their sadness complete
the melancholy of Saturday
Christ in the tomb
the spices waiting
disciples locked
behind closed doors
the darkness oppressive
gathered together and alone
silently in prayer


April 6, 2010
Holy Saturday
Luke 23:56b

&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday

&
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50,55,56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There…
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4

&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010

&
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Matthew 20:26
meditation on John 13:1-17, 31b-35
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
meditation on Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14 and the events of Good Friday
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 1, 2010
Maundy Thursday

&
Mark 11:1-11
Psalm 118:21-29
Worship Theme: “What’s up with a man on a donkey?”
and sermon, “What’s The Big Deal?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
the fifth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 28, 2010
Palm Sunday




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

The Despair of Friday

From the garden
the master captured
turned into their hands
by the kiss of the betrayer

We all scattered
fearful for our lives
Peter denying the Lord
before the cock crowed

Christ’s trial
being spit upon
going before Pilate
turned over to the guard

Whipped and beated
taken to the cross
dying for our sins
all seemed to be lost


April 6, 2010
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50,55,56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There…
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4

&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010

&
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Matthew 20:26
meditation on John 13:1-17, 31b-35
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
meditation on Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14 and the events of Good Friday
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 1, 2010
Maundy Thursday

&
Mark 11:1-11
Psalm 118:21-29
Worship Theme: “What’s up with a man on a donkey?”
and sermon, “What’s The Big Deal?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
the fifth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 28, 2010
Palm Sunday



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

The Risen Power of Christ

All that we shout in praises
of our redeemers resurrection
evaporates like the dew
on a bright summer morning
if we do not embrace
cleave in our heart
to the risen power of Christ

The life-changing,
spirit transforming
life force of our savior
coursing through our veins
All of the hosannas
like the joy of Palm Sunday
can dissipate, fade
like the fear of Thursday
the gloom of Saturday

Only staying as Sunday
Easter people living
acting like the brothers and sisters
of the living Christ
Only when we stand up
be counted as God’s children
not just shouting with joy
but doing our master’s work


April 6, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday




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

Only if the Spirit Burns

The joy of Easter
that which should remain
with us, always
changing us forever

Only if the Spirit burns
the fire within us
guiding our steps
all of our days

Easter morning
bright and shining
with us always
if we believe

Stepping out in faith
picking up our cross
sharing the love of Jesus
to all that we meet


April 6, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday




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

Screened behind the Forsythia

The cluster of daffodils,
variegated in color
hiding, behind the yellow
screened behind the forsythia

Seeking out their stature
their beauty partially obscured
as a demur flower
hidden behind the door


April 6, 2010
Pembroke Village School




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

Sunday, April 04, 2010

Fulfilling His Purpose

Christ on this morning
rising from the tomb
alive, risen, that we may live again
redeeming us of our sin
conquering death in his rising
offering us hope
a way to return to God

Fulfilling his purpose
why he descending
God walking the earth
in the flesh of mortal man
in this he was able
humble, empty, the vessel
God’s will guiding his steps
giving himself as a sacrifice


April 4, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday



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

Tears before the Sanhedrin

How Christ must have felt
standing accused before the Sanhedrin
sons of Aaron, the royal priesthood
judging him by the law
yet blind to the proofs
the signs, the prophecies fulfilled
He was the Messiah,
son of the living God
They convicted him
for claiming his name
his holy divinity

Tears before the Sanhedrin
the rebellion of this people
those chosen by God
rejecting him over and over again
the leaders not believing
failing to see
though he had walked the land
showing God to them
here he was fulfilling
the sad prophecy
the Messiah having to die
to set his people free


April 4, 2010
after watching The Passion of the Christ
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Passion_of_the_Christ
last night, Holy Saturday

&
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50,55,56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There…
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
& earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010




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

Selfless

In his love for us
his faithfulness to God
Selfless, to his death
even death on the cross

How he came in human flesh
God becoming fully man
walking the way of this earth
yet righteousness, complete

Offering himself for us
following the master’s will
taking on the sins of man
a worthy sacrifice to God

Dying that we may live
unburdened by our sin
rising from the tomb, the grave
that we would have new life with him

=====
edited February 9, 2015
Selfless – v2
April 4, 2010
Selfless
Philippians 2:5-11
and
Upper Room Disciplines for 2010
for March 29, 2010 to April 4, 2010,
“A Holy Incredibility”,
by Max Lucado
for April 4, 2010
“Easter”

&
John 1:14
John 1:1-14
and
Day 194, “The Grand Miracle”, in
 “Daily Mediations: On Golden Texts of the Bible”,
by Henry Gariepy
for April 4, 2010
read April 4, 2010
&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth Foss
sermon blog
meditation blog
“God’s Whisper” blog
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday
&
Holy Saturday
&
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
 Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50,55,56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There…
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4
&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
&
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Matthew 20:26
meditation on John 13:1-17, 31b-35
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
meditation on Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14 and the events of Good Friday
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 1, 2010
Maundy Thursday
&
Mark 11:1-11
Psalm 118:21-29
Worship Theme: “What’s up with a man on a donkey?”
and sermon, “What’s The Big Deal?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
the fifth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 28, 2010
Palm Sunday



All of my poems and photographs are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss (raymondafoss@gmail.com) for usage. See all 40,660+ of my poems at www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

More than a Heavenly Visitor

More than a heavenly visitor
in Christ, God come to earth
walking as a man
so we could have new birth

Living as a servant
humble before God
silent against their accusations
going to the cross

God descended to the flesh
suffering for us
the lamb a holy sacrifice
reconciling us to God


April 4, 2010
John 1:14
John 1:1-14
and
Day 194, “The Grand Miracle”, 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
for April 4, 2010
read April 4, 2010

&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday

&
Holy Saturday

&
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50,55,56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There…
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4

&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010

&
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Matthew 20:26
meditation on John 13:1-17, 31b-35
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
meditation on Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14 and the events of Good Friday
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 1, 2010
Maundy Thursday

&
Mark 11:1-11
Psalm 118:21-29
Worship Theme: “What’s up with a man on a donkey?”
and sermon, “What’s The Big Deal?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
the fifth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 28, 2010
Palm Sunday



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

An Uneasy Rest

On the Sabbath day they rested
not because this was their choice
Christ’s body in the tomb
unprepared for his journey
his descent to the dead

An uneasy rest
their master in the ground
unsure what would come
remembering his words
rising on the third day
wondering what that meant

Quiet on the Sabbath
praying, perhaps
behind closed doors
fear gripping the disciples
wondering what was in store
what the future would hold


April 4, 2010
Holy Saturday

&
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday

&
Good Friday service
Luke 23:39-46
John 13:34, 35 (Prayer of Confession)
and Service of Tenebrae
Pastor Ruth L. Foss
Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010
Tenebrae – The Service of Shadows
1. THE SHADOW OF BETRAYAL
Matthew 26:20-25
2. THE SHADOW OF INNER AGONY
Luke 22:40-44
3. THE SHADOW OF LONELINESS
Matthew 26:40-45
4. THE SHADOW OF DESERTION
Matthew 26:47-50,55,56
5. THE SHADOW OF ACCUSATION
Matthew 26:59-67
6. THE SHADOW OF MOCKERY
Mark 15:12-20
7. THE SHADOW OF DEATH
Luke 23:33-46
Hymn: Were You There…
FINAL READING
John 1:1-4

&
earlier
Good Friday prayer vigil
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 2, 2010

&
John 13:1-17, 31b-35
Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Matthew 20:26
meditation on John 13:1-17, 31b-35
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
meditation on Exodus 12:1-4, 11-14 and the events of Good Friday
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 1, 2010
Maundy Thursday

&
Mark 11:1-11
Psalm 118:21-29
Worship Theme: “What’s up with a man on a donkey?”
and sermon, “What’s The Big Deal?”
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
the fifth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
March 28, 2010
Palm Sunday




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

Bewilderment, Wondering

Bewilderment, wondering
coming to the tomb
dread, foreboding
why the stone was rolled away

Joy, if we would believe
Christ alive, not there
risen from the dead
just as he foretold

The story not over
yet ending in victory
Christ defeating death
giving us life, eternity


April 4, 2010
Luke 24:1-12
and
Alive Now Daily Reflections
http://alivenow.upperroom.org/daily-reflections/daily-reflections-for-March-22-28/
for March 29, 2010 to April 4, 2010
by Nancy Ferguson (You can visit her website at www.BlueTreeResources.org)
for April 4, 2010




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

The Doors Opened

No longer in fear
locked in the upper room
the disciples from their hiding
out into the light of morning

The doors opened
Christ in victory
risen from the dead,
have you heard

He is a live
going to Galilee
come quickly,
let’s find him there


April 4, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday




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

Come, For this Morning – v2

God descended to flesh
the babe in the manger
the carpenter in Galilee
walking the land
healing and teaching
preparing the fishermen
the disciples who would follow

Come to earth
for this morning
his work here complete
victorious, he alone
defeating sin, even death
freeing us for heaven
Christ risen, in victory


April 4, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday




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

Come, For this Morning

God descended to flesh
the babe in the manger
the carpenter in Galilee
walking the land
healing and teaching
preparing the fishermen
the disciples who would follow

Come to earth
for this morning
his work here complete
victorious, he alone
defeating sin, even death
freeing us for heaven
with Christ, risen, in victory


April 4, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday




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

The Power of Your Love

Death had no victory
evil defeated utterly
the power of your love
more than these
victorious on Easter

Risen from the dead
that we would be free
free from sin
rising to glory with him
at the end of our days


April 4, 2010
Mark 16:1-6
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Worship Theme: “He Lives!”
and sermon, “Victory in Jesus”
by Pastor Ruth L. Foss
the sixth in a series of sermons, based in part on the book,
“24 Hours That Changed the World”, by Reverend Adam Hamilton
http://thewell.cor.org/resurrection-resources/24-hours-that-changed-the-world.html
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 4, 2010
Easter Sunday




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