Saturday, April 09, 2011

Why Do Your Doubt

Denying Christ’s reality
the resurrection of our Savior
rising for us
why do we doubt
his promise secure
with us ever
dwelling within
the holy scripture
charting the path
life everlasting
when we see him again
Christ comes to us
risen, alive
calling us to him
to walk by our side
whole and healed
with our Savior by our side


April 9, 2011
Luke 24:38
Luke 24:36-49
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 9, 2011
read April 9, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

No Longer a Stranger

Christ with them
in the breaking of the bread
no longer a stranger
our Savior instead
On the road with us
in the journey of faith
sharing the truth with us
in the breaking of the bread
God ever with us
the Spirit alive
God’s grace upon us
in the sharing of life



April 9, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
&
Luke 24:29a
Luke 24:13-24, 28-32
and the book, The Sanctuary for Lent 2011
http://www.cokesbury.com/forms/ProductDetail.aspx?pid=838881
for April 8, 2011
read April 9, 2011

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Through the Witness of Your Life

Our authentic witness
not in the words we speak
in our walk here on earth
through the witness of our life
Being Christ’s hands and feet
His presence here on earth


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Christian Action


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

In acts of compassion

Our witness
in Christian action
in acts of compassion
offering Christ
to those whom we meet
to those who see us in the world,
being Christ’s hands and feet
his vessels in this world


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Christian Action



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Host of the Supper

Not our food
not our banquet
Christ the host
the host of the supper
offering love
an open table
offered to all
out of the depths
of his love


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Communion


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Feast of Joy

The feast of joy
the offering of love
calling to us
calling us to come
To feast of the banquet
at the table of joy
the table ready
prepared for all of us


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Communion


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Life from My Hunger

Life from my hunger
fed by your love
when I am open
come down from above
Fill me Lord
fill me up
share your grace
from the depths of your love


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Communion


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Drink from This, All of You

God’s call, to each of us
from the depths of his love
calling to us
Drink from this, all of you
the cup of my love
poured out for you


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35


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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Sharing Peace

Christ’s grace
soothing our hearts
sharing God’s peace
calming our spirits
washed in his love
the Spirit descending
falling like a dove


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Passing of the Peace


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

With Thanksgiving (2)

Praying to God
our hearts, our lives
given over to God

All our troubles
let go, given over
unto God
to lift up the flock
all the people on earth.


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Philippians 4


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Friday, April 08, 2011

Preventing Torture Everywhere

Dear NRCAT Supporters,

NRCAT is starting a campaign, called “Preventing Torture Everywhere,” to urge President Obama to sign a new treaty to help end torture. The treaty, called the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT), requires participating nations to create mechanisms to prevent torture from occurring in detention centers, police stations, mental health hospitals, and prisons. It also permits international experts to inspect those facilities.
57 nations have ratified OPCAT and 22 additional nations have signed it. Unfortunately, the U.S. is not among them.
NRCAT is engaging in this effort for two reasons:
OPCAT could be very helpful in protecting prisoners in the U.S. from abuse, including the use of solitary confinement and the shackling of women prisoners during childbirth.
Ratifying OPCAT would enhance our government’s effectiveness and credibility in urging other countries to stop their use of torture and to ratify both the Convention Against Torture (the treaty prohibiting torture) and OPCAT.
Three requests from NRCAT:
1. Gather signatures in your congregation for NRCAT’s statement supporting OPCAT, a new treaty to prevent torture.
2. Show the video Preventing Torture Everywhere in your congregation.
3. Urge your congregation or religious organization to endorse the statement.


Go to www.nrcat.org/opcat


Now, at the beginning of this multi-year campaign, NRCAT asks its member organizations and its supporters to carry out three tasks:

Urge members of your congregation or religious organization to sign NRCAT’s statement supporting OPCAT. Use the petition version of the statement to collect the names. The names of everyone who signs the statement will be sent to the White House each year on Human Rights Day, December 10, until the President signs.

Enable your congregation and other congregations you know to show the video Preventing Torture Everywhere and to use our Discussion Guide to facilitate the discussion. The 10-minute video features four victims of torture; Juan Mendez, U.N. Special Rapporteur on Torture; an attorney describing torture and abuse in U.S. prisons; and NRCAT leaders. It best lends itself to a small group discussion or an adult education setting. If your congregation has an adult class that meets weekly to address a variety of issues, you might consider suggesting a screening of the video. The video is available on DVD in our online store for $5.00 or for free download on our website.

Urge your congregation and the regional and national bodies of your faith group to endorse the statement. Once that endorsement is confirmed, please report the good news to NRCAT.

NRCAT has created a number of resources to help you do these tasks, including a statement signed by 51 heads of faith groups and other religious leaders, the 10-minute video with discussion guide, a petition version of the statement, and a variety of background materials. All are available at www.nrcat.org/opcat.

We will be working on this task for the long term. But even a long term task needs a beginning. Now is the time to start. If NRCAT staff can be helpful to you as you do this important work, please contact us at campaign@nrcat.org.

By the way, please endorse the statement yourself if you have not done so.

Thank you for all of your efforts to end torture.

Sincerely,

Linda Gustitus, President
Rev. Richard L. Killmer, Executive Director
National Religious Campaign Against Torture NRCAT


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

Rice Paper Maples

The leaves of last autumn
bled all their colors
like rice paper maples
not yet on the ground

Illumined like lanterns
rimming the pagoda
nestled in the brush
drawing my searching eye

Lingering longer
to gather this moment
the beauty within
the arms of the bush

Holding fast
the leaves to their branches
not yet wanting
to become their mulch


April 8, 2011
Maple Street and Prospect Street
Pembroke, NH
April 8, 2011



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Into God’s Hands - 2

Why do we struggle
why do we doubt
holding onto our lives
not giving them up

Holding our futures
in our hands of clay
not willing to place them
in God’s hands today

Why do we hold on
believing we are in control
when the creator of the universe
tells us he loves us so
wanting to be with us
everywhere we go


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

In the Whisper of Prayer

Calling to me
God speaking
just as I am
right where I am

In the whisper of prayer
words come to me
to share with the world
God’s message of love

Speak to me, Lord,
let me be your voice
give me words to share
give them today
let me feel your love
this is what I pray


April 8, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,430+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Thursday, April 07, 2011

This Pilgrim’s Road

From the first disciples
humble men
Christ called to him
We are clay
just like the others
all called by Christ
to this pilgrim’s road

We will walk
here together
sharing love
and Christ’s message
letting others
hear our witness
through the gifts
God gives to us


April 7, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,425+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

We Will Walk

We will walk . . . here together
this pilgrim’s road;
we will carry
our cross before us,
led by . . . our risen Lord

We will walk
filled with the spirit,
guiding our trembling feet;
we will carry
our cross before us,
led by . . . our risen Lord

We will walk
following Jesus,
led by
the servant’s call;
we will carry
our cross before us,
ever led by . . . our risen Lord


April 7, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,425+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Cadence of Prayer

Feeling the beating
the cadence of prayer
guiding us ever
held in your care

God speak to us
within each beating heart
show us how to live
how we are to start

Use us Lord in your work
to heal all brokenness
let us be your hands and feet
your servants in this world


April 7, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,425+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Guided by the Scriptures

A manual for life
Guided by the scriptures
showing us the way
our walk in this life

Following the Savior
God come down as man
following his example
serving all we can

Hope in this message
from the very start
God poured out his love
into each beating heart

Guided by your word
your grace fully revealed
walking with you ever
in this we all are healed


April 7, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,425+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Rhythm of Prayer

A different metronome
not of the world
the rhythm of prayer
our heartbeat
the cadence for our lives

Spending time in prayer
worship as our lives
holding on the Jesus
our Savior as our guide
leading us ever
in this walk of faith


April 7, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,425+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Loving us on behalf of Christ

The living presence
the hands and feet of our Savior
loving us on behalf of Christ
lifting us up on the way

Wrapped in the arms of grace
the people in our lives
loving us on behalf of Christ
his presence in this life


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Christ Selected Them

The first disciples
the fishermen, the rest
those who were truly clay
Christ selected them,
as he chooses us
to go into the world
to bear our witness ever
to the ends of the earth
in the name of Christ


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Grace We Receive

Not for us
the grace we receive
the endless offering
the depths of God’s grace

To share
to give away
the free gift of God
given to us to be shared
with everyone we meet


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Always, I Take Up the Cross

When I stumble, when I fall
oh that I ever may say
that always, I take up the cross
my gifts, my hands
my voice for you Lord
doing all I can
Carrying the cross
the truth of God’s love
to heal us in our brokenness
to bring us home to God


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Obstacles to Grace

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

To Accept the Gift

Called by God
to accept the gift
the offering of life
wooing us in love
to wash us clean with grace


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Prevenient Grace
Justifying Grace


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 21,150+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Persevering in Grace

Ignoring the winds
the resistance of this world
persevering in Grace
heralding your word

Carrying Christ’s message
wanting to change the world
to bring love to the people of the earth
to wash over the whole world


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Fourth Day

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Wednesday, April 06, 2011

Holy Listening

The heart of servanthood
being one with Christ
holy listening
not speaking
supporting them in life
Words cannot convey
the presence of God
sometimes humble listening
is the greatest gift of all


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

God’s Representatives

Each one commissioned
a royal nation
a priesthood of believers
sent to heal the nations

God’s representative
to persons on this earth
a holy nation
sent to heal the world

Witnesses to power
to love come down
healed by his sacrifice
restored by saving love


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

God’s Hidden Hand

at work from the beginning
molding, protecting, guiding
our formation, our life
forming us for service
for purpose in this life

God’s hidden hand
forming our clay
breathing life within us
with us on the way


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35
Prevenient Grace


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Christian Community in Action

To be truly Christian
needing to be in action
to go into the world
to be God’s hands and feet

Only in action
are we truly Christian
serving our neighbors
loving all we meet

Being God’s witness
disciples of our king
showing them God’s mercy
God’s love for you and me

Only in action
are we truly Christian
fulfilling God’s commandment
and the commission of the Christ


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Living in Grace (2)

Purposeful,
life as worship
living in grace
in the living water
drenched, infused
filled with power
sharing the gifts we have
with our brother, our sister
living in grace
moving as God’s hands
his feet, his presence in this walk
walking with him daily
all the days of our life


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

To begin to know Christ

To hear God’s message
to begin to know Christ
to feel him with us
on this walk of life

To begin to know Christ intimately
to feel his guiding presence
to heed his call to us
to come, follow me

His story, of service
of submission to God
Glory to our Savior
life, evermore

Hearing him calling
the voice of our Good Shepherd
leading us from grace to grace
the journey of our faith


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Rekindle Our Gifts

Time set apart
drinking the living waters
immersed in your scripture
drenched in your word
Rekindle our gifts
sharpen our witness
trimming the wicks
our candles brightly shining
sharing your message
your walk in this life
our message your grace
your love for all those on earth


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

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 21,040+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

and went with them

the risen Christ
walking with them
Cleopas and the other
on the road to Emmaus
on their way home

Christ there with us
here right beside us
we are the unnamed disciple
the prodigal yearning for home


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

For Others

For others
to be Christ in the world
for them
those who do not know
who do not believe
faith not for us
to keep hidden
as some precious jewel
given to be shared
to all whom we meet
to be shared with love
to the ends of the earth


April 6, 2011
Walk to Emmaus
Luke 24:13-35

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Lovers Entwined

In a passionate embrace
strands of golden threads
braided together
the lovers entwined
married in the fabric
the sinew of the tree
together dying
as they limb and cut
their precious tree



April 6, 2011
maple tree on Broadway Street
being cut down today
for the road project
Suncook, NH
Pembroke, NH
April 6, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Dancers Entwined

Slow dancing together
fused as one
living in the heartwood
until the song is done

Arms to the heavens
bodies entwined
the dancers swinging
in rhythm and time



April 6, 2011
maple tree on Broadway Street
being cut down today
for the road project
Suncook, NH
Pembroke, NH
April 6, 2011


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 21,040+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Tuesday, April 05, 2011

Like Strands of Silver

Like arms of gray
like strands of silver
braided, and twisting
rising from the ground

The bodies of the supple dancers
their lithe torsos, arms
entwined in the melody
frozen for eternity

In the fabric
the flesh
of the trunk,
the branches,
some cut off
amputated

Yet trembling
before the woodman’s ax
change coming
the lovers to be cut down
soon, too soon
in the name of progress


April 5, 2011
maple tree on Broadway Street
Pembroke, NH
a band around it, to be cut down
for the road project
Spring 2011
&
Silver maple tree out my office window
October 29, 2010 and October 28, 2010
&
drive from Pembroke to Concord this morning
before the fog burned off
October 28, 2010
&
http://ahandmaidenofthelord.blogspot.com/2010/10/preparing-for-sleep.html
“Preparing to Sleep”
October 20, 2010 posting on her blog,
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
&
talk about different colors
of the leaves of autumn
Suncook, NH
Pembroke, NH
Allenstown, NH
October 21, 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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Monday, April 04, 2011

Darkness Around Us

We are to be light
commissioned to witness
to remain authentic
to be salt of the earth

The darkness around us
oppression and injustice
will turn bright as noonday
if we stand in the breach

Nothing permanent
save for the love of God
all else ephemeral
made from the dust

Yoked with our Savior
speaking out we must
to seek the best for our neighbor
the least, the last, the lost

The time is now apparent
the time is now
to seek justice for our neighbors
and compassion for one and all

We can stand together
If we have the presence
to submit to our master
and follow God’s will

Loving our neighbor
sharing God’s grace
loving them ever
warm in our embrace

Shining a light
piercing the darkness
none shall go hungry
none shall be left out


April 4, 2011
Isaiah 58:5-11
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent
&
Isaiah 58:1-4
&
Rally for New Hampshire
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=196585980375491
http://birchpaper.com/post/4269184577/video-from-yesterdays-rally
March 31, 2011
&
Cuts approved by the NH House and
Constitutional Amendment proposed by Rep. Neal Kirk
to remove safety net of town welfare
&
John 3:16 versus Leviticus 4
&
calling on the NH Legislature
and the Governor
to spare those without a voice
those who need us
from the severe budget cuts
that are currently planned
in HB1 and HB2, etc.
http://www.admin.state.nh.us/budget/index.asp
&
in part based on the testimony
http://www.nhepiscopal.org/index.php?view=article&id=125:testimony&tmpl=component&print=1&layout=default&page=
of The Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson,
Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Kathy Needleman, Esq. (testifying as a parent)
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Katherine Stearns, Esq.
March 10, 2011

Raymond A. Foss, Esq.
Law Offices of Raymond A. Foss, PLLC
Poetry Where You Live
160 Main Street
Suncook, NH 03275-1206


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

If We Seek Justice

Shining like the morning sun
God’s favor on us
in service, redefined
redeemed from our death

If we seek justice
if we stand with our neighbors
crying out for freedom
for dignity in this life

God will remember
our humble service
our living witness
in the way we treat our neighbors

Those at the margin
needing our compassion
the least of our brothers, our sisters
humble children of God


April 4, 2011
Isaiah 58:5-11
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent
&
Isaiah 58:1-4
&
Rally for New Hampshire
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=196585980375491
http://birchpaper.com/post/4269184577/video-from-yesterdays-rally
March 31, 2011
&
Cuts approved by the NH House and
Constitutional Amendment proposed by Rep. Neal Kirk
to remove safety net of town welfare
&
John 3:16 versus Leviticus 4
&
calling on the NH Legislature
and the Governor
to spare those without a voice
those who need us
from the severe budget cuts
that are currently planned
in HB1 and HB2, etc.
http://www.admin.state.nh.us/budget/index.asp
&
in part based on the testimony
http://www.nhepiscopal.org/index.php?view=article&id=125:testimony&tmpl=component&print=1&layout=default&page=
of The Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson,
Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Kathy Needleman, Esq. (testifying as a parent)
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Katherine Stearns, Esq.
March 10, 2011

Raymond A. Foss, Esq.
Law Offices of Raymond A. Foss, PLLC
Poetry Where You Live
160 Main Street
Suncook, NH 03275-1206


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

God’s Favor Will Shine

God’s grace washing over us
God’s favor will shine on us
healing us from within
when we answer his call

Out of his love
we are given new strength
to serve one another
to seek holy peace

Raising up our neighbors
walking in their shoes
helping one another
pushing on through

The trials easier
yoked with our Savior
freed from oppression
and the wages of sin

Offering them comfort
justice each day
working to change for the better
their walk every day



April 4, 2011
Isaiah 58:5-11
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent
&
Isaiah 58:1-4
&
Rally for New Hampshire
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=196585980375491
http://birchpaper.com/post/4269184577/video-from-yesterdays-rally
March 31, 2011
&
Cuts approved by the NH House and
Constitutional Amendment proposed by Rep. Neal Kirk
to remove safety net of town welfare
&
John 3:16 versus Leviticus 4
&
calling on the NH Legislature
and the Governor
to spare those without a voice
those who need us
from the severe budget cuts
that are currently planned
in HB1 and HB2, etc.
http://www.admin.state.nh.us/budget/index.asp
&
in part based on the testimony
http://www.nhepiscopal.org/index.php?view=article&id=125:testimony&tmpl=component&print=1&layout=default&page=
of The Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson,
Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Kathy Needleman, Esq. (testifying as a parent)
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Katherine Stearns, Esq.
March 10, 2011

Raymond A. Foss, Esq.
Law Offices of Raymond A. Foss, PLLC
Poetry Where You Live
160 Main Street
Suncook, NH 03275-1206


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Act for Justice

Seek the quiet center
in prayer listening
hearing God’s voice
speaking, speaking to us

Act for justice,
seek his wisdom
going forth in love
to serve our fellow man

To break the yoke of bondage
to free the captives
to loose the thongs of the yoke
wrapped around their neck


April 4, 2011
Isaiah 58:5-11
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent
&
Isaiah 58:1-4
&
Rally for New Hampshire
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=196585980375491
http://birchpaper.com/post/4269184577/video-from-yesterdays-rally
March 31, 2011
&
Cuts approved by the NH House and
Constitutional Amendment proposed by Rep. Neal Kirk
to remove safety net of town welfare
&
John 3:16 versus Leviticus 4
&
calling on the NH Legislature
and the Governor
to spare those without a voice
those who need us
from the severe budget cuts
that are currently planned
in HB1 and HB2, etc.
http://www.admin.state.nh.us/budget/index.asp
&
in part based on the testimony
http://www.nhepiscopal.org/index.php?view=article&id=125:testimony&tmpl=component&print=1&layout=default&page=
of The Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson,
Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Kathy Needleman, Esq. (testifying as a parent)
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Katherine Stearns, Esq.
March 10, 2011

Raymond A. Foss, Esq.
Law Offices of Raymond A. Foss, PLLC
Poetry Where You Live
160 Main Street
Suncook, NH 03275-1206



All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

God’s Favor

If we are true to the scriptures
to truly love our neighbor
fasting from our excesses
focused on them

Serving with kindness
compassion for their place
with love of the our Savior
caring for our neighbor,

Our sister, our brother
God’s favor shining
as we walk with them
humbly, as a servant
bearing the cross
seeking mercy and kindness
all the days of our days
to lift our neighbor up


April 4, 2011
Isaiah 58:5-11
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent
&
Isaiah 58:1-4
&
Rally for New Hampshire
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=196585980375491
http://birchpaper.com/post/4269184577/video-from-yesterdays-rally
March 31, 2011
&
Cuts approved by the NH House and
Constitutional Amendment proposed by Rep. Neal Kirk
to remove safety net of town welfare
&
John 3:16 versus Leviticus 4
&
calling on the NH Legislature
and the Governor
to spare those without a voice
those who need us
from the severe budget cuts
that are currently planned
in HB1 and HB2, etc.
http://www.admin.state.nh.us/budget/index.asp
&
in part based on the testimony
http://www.nhepiscopal.org/index.php?view=article&id=125:testimony&tmpl=component&print=1&layout=default&page=
of The Rt. Rev. V. Gene Robinson,
Episcopal Bishop of New Hampshire
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Kathy Needleman, Esq. (testifying as a parent)
March 10, 2011
&
testimony of Katherine Stearns, Esq.
March 10, 2011

Raymond A. Foss, Esq.
Law Offices of Raymond A. Foss, PLLC
Poetry Where You Live
160 Main Street
Suncook, NH 03275-1206


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Prepared, Made Clean

Christ stopped
kneeled down before them
his robe cast off
and a towel round his waist

Humbly, as a servant
washing them clean
made clean for service
in preparation for new life

Prepared, made clean
commissioned in this way
the bread and cup to follow
as he showed them God’s plan

But first to still them
to wash the dust off
to model service
our Savior, our God

So much more
than simply washing dust
preparing them for witness
on their walk in this life

Each of us needing
the love of our Savior
washing off the earth
with the water of his blood
saving us fully
that we may serve in love


April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

No Dirt on Our Feet

Maybe preparation
the cleansing Christ offered
the washing of the feet
something to remember

This came before
the bread and the cup
the sacrifice of Christ
after washing their feet

No dirt on our feet
preparing for service
washed with God’s love
sent into the world

Prepared with the waters
the living scripture
the grace of our Savior
washing over us still


April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

That Spirit of Love

Prepare for service
drink in the waters
that spirit of love
washing over us
God’s grace descending
touching our spirits
showing us love
that we may love
teaching us to give
humble as a servant
to offer hope to all
a healing of the nations



April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Gather These to Me

The words of our master
echoing to us
serving our neighbors
washing their feet

Gather these to me
the least and the last
the lost needing saving
why he paid the awful cost

Prepare for our service
our witness of grace
drink of his word
washed in his love

Transformed for service
in the gifts of the Lord
heeding his calling
going out into the world



April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,400+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Gather Love

Gather love to us
drink in the water
eat of his sacrifice
drenched in the waters

Gather love, in service
to be poured out
the preparing of our spirits
that we may be love



April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Fill Us - 2

Fill us, Lord
touch us
fill us with your spirit
that spirit of love
of service
offering hope to the world
your presence with us
guiding our steps
preparing us for service
all the days of our life


April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Fill Our Lungs with Love

So much of the story
preparing us for service
to drink of the living water
to be filled by the Spirit

Fill our lungs with love
we pray, to you, almighty God
We want you near us
as we walk in life
we want you to go with us
making the whole world bright

Sharing your message
as servants of the King
bringing you to them
falling on our knees

Like the humble servant
washing our neighbors’ feet
sharing your love with them
to everyone we meet



April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

By the Master

By the master
by his touch
something so personal
lifting us up

Before he said the words
the bread, and the cup
sharing a washing
to change our world around

The master, a servant
our king a lowly slave
washing our feet
to prepare to send us out

Here in the upper room
staring at his head
kneeling before our feet
taught as we are led

To be his hands and feet
to share holy work
humble as a servant
to lift our neighbor up

Following Christ
his example on the earth
not for fame or fortune
but to lift our neighbors up



April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
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 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


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 20,340+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Prepare for Service

Bound up in the moment
the washing of the feet
something so powerful
their master at their feet

We know for certain
the more that they did not know
the rest of the week unfolding
how he loves us so

Prepare for service
in tending to the flock
washing the feet of our brothers
sent out into the world

Hope for the world
in the message of our Kind
seeking the joy within us
causing us to sing

Work there is to do
but first we must prepare
fed by his body
and filled with his blood

Sent forth in service
wrapped up in God’s love


April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Worship 10:00

A sign, an indictment
an offering, a limit
the sign on the highway
an opening, for others, for us

The start of something;
but far more than this
life as worship
walking with our King

So much we can offer
if we walk with our Savior
heeding his calling
to be his hands and feet

Only we can be here
living, in the flesh
being his witnesses
to his grace toward all man

Worship not for an hour
but as a way of life
bringing light into the darkness
till the whole world is bright


April 4, 2011
seeing our church’s sign
on Route 3, Pembroke Street, in Pembroke, NH
“Worship 10:00”
above the name of our church
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=136632035559

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

In the Garden with Jesus

We each can be Mary
coming to believe
walking with risen Savior
when we come to believe

Hearing our master calling
recognizing his voice
in the stillness of the morning
washed by his grace

Healed in his message
his promise to return
in the humble morning
in the clouds of glory
we are reborn



April 4, 2011
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Seeing Christ – 3 – v2

In the garden with him
blinded by my sadness
unable to see
to recognize the Christ

Seeing Christ
when he spoke to me
calling me to him
that I would believe


April 3, 2011 and April 4, 2011
(as originally drafted)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Seeing Christ - 3

In the garden with him
blinded by my sadness
unable to see
to recognize the Christ

Seeing Christ
when he spoke to me
calling me to him
that I would believe

Knowing his voice calling
to comfort me
to empower me for witness
to heal the brokenness

Calling me in the garden
to sooth my troubled soul
to tell the others of him
his life, evermore


April 3, 2011 and April 4, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,390+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Breathe First

Cleansed of the dust
focused on the Christ
washed by our master
touched by his love

Breathe first
preparing for service
washed clean by the Christ
drenched in the word


April 3, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Pausing in the Garden

With Christ in the Garden
the morning of resurrection
alone with the Savior
with the risen Christ

Pausing in the garden
lingering with God
walking with him ever
on the walk of life


April 3, 2011
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Sunday, April 03, 2011

The Master Washing Their Feet

Something so wrong
I understand Peter
the master washing their feet
humbly, as a servant

Their world upside down
before the holy supper
the exodus remembered
yet turned much deeper

Christ teaching his disciples
the twelve who walked with him
teaching them true service
in washing their dirty feet

Preparing them for service
by the master’s touch
filled with his spirit
washed with his love


April 3, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

The Servant Washing Their Feet

The man, humble
towel around his waist
coming to them, seated
to humbly wash their feet
The servant master
the living sacrifice
coming before them humble
to prepare them for the feast


April 3, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

In the Early Morning

In the early morning
struggling, in despair
in the garden alone
finding my Savior there
calling to me ever
showing that he cares
healing me in his presence
loving me always



April 3, 2011
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Here is Water

Life sustaining
life giving water
come and drink
all who are thirsty
empty yourself
that you would be filled
a free gift
given by God
All that we need
filling our cup
filled to overflowing
that we would be poured out


April 3, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

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 18,860+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.

Come, everyone who is thirsty

All are welcome,
come, everyone who is thirsty
the living God calls
to quench our thirst
living water
to heal the world
to lift us up
into his loving arms



April 3, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent

All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Filled with the Bread and Cup

God’s love
Tangible
at the table of Christ
the one who washed their feet
filled with the bread and cup
ready to do God’s work
called to go into the world
that others may live


April 3, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Flavors of the Bread

Different ways
to sense the presence of God
to be fed, life
flavors of the bread
offered by God
to feed our souls
to give us life
life evermore
To fill our cup, overflowing
that we may be poured out
to serve, just as our Lord did
offering ourselves
that they may live


April 3, 2011
John 13:4-9, 12-17
Isaiah 58:5-11
Isaiah 55:1-3 (Call to Worship)
(Unison Prayer)
John 20:11-18 (“In the Garden”, UMH #314)
Worship Theme: “The Fruit of Love is Service”
Communion
and sermon, ”First Put On Your Own Oxygen Mask”
(4th in 5 part Lenten Worship Theme series on Mother Teresa’s quote:
“The fruit of Silence is Prayer,
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The Fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The Fruit of Service is Peace”)
by Reverend Huntley Halvorson
http://www.suncookumc.org
Suncook United Methodist Church
Suncook, NH
April 3, 2011
Fourth Sunday in Lent


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

A New Heart

A prayer in the community
a new heart,
if it be God’s will
a new hope,
in his hands still
leaning on you,
in your loving arms

Praying to your, Lord
to find me here
to lead me on
to comfort me still
to stay the course
to trust only in you
the rock I stand on

The place where I live
in you Lord alone
in your loving care
hope for tomorrow
for your guiding hand
to guide the surgeons
in you do I stand


April 3, 2011
for Chandler Newton
first draft March 30, 2011


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,380+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Choosing Our Friends

In the mirror of time
the prism of justice
the sun shining upon us
cutting through the darkness
oppression and silence
giving way
to freedom and colors
washing over these lands
a sandstorm of time

Choosing our friends
the dictators or the martyrs
the people yearning to breathe free
from the yoke of oppression
the prisoners calling for freedom
from the chains of the tyrants
wanting to be free
History will judge
how soon we joined the people
calling for their freedom
acting to assist them
to have their human rights


April 3, 2011
UN Security Council approval of sanctions against Libya
http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/africa/03/17/libya.civil.war/index.html?hpt=T1&iref=BN1
&
calling on President Obama and the world
to act in the Middle East, especially in Libya and Bahrain,
to stand with the people
yearning to breathe free
and not worrying about the results,
that it is always right to stand for basic human rights
&
on the transformations since the beginning of January -
all the protests in Egypt, Yemen, Bahrain, Tunisia, Algeria, Libya, Oman,
Jordan, Iran, Iraq, Palestinian Territories, Djibouti, Mauritania, Senegal, Saudi Arabia, etc.


All of my poems are copyrighted by Raymond A. Foss, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011. All rights reserved. Contact me at Ray Foss for usage.
See all 11,370+ of my poems at Poetry Where You Live.

Lenten Services Series and Holy Week Activities, Suncook United Methodist Church, Suncook, NH



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


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 19,960+ of my poems at http://www.raymondafoss.blogspot.com Poetry Where You Live.