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"POEMS"

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At the Place of the Sea

Have you come to the Red Sea place in your life,
Where, in spite of all you can do.
There is no way out, there is no way back,
There is no other way but - through?

Then wait on the Lord with a trust secure
Till the night of your fear is gone;
He will send the wind; He will keep the floods,
When He says to your soul, "Go on."

And His hand will lead you through, clear through,
Ere the watery walls roll down;
No foe can reach you, no waves can touch,
No mightiest sea can drown.

The tossing billows may rear their crests,
Their foam at your feet may break,
But over their bed you shall walk dry shod,
In the path that our Lord will make.

In the morning watch, 'neath the lifted cloud,
You shall see but the Lord alone.
When He leads you on from the place of the sea
To a land you have not known.

And your fears shall pass as your foes have passed,
You shall be no more afraid;
You shall sing His praise in a better place,
A place that His hand has made.

by Annie Johnson Flint


Act out the Sermon

Actions not Words

Be Doers of the Word of God

Tune: Ellacombe CMD ("I Sing the Mighty Power of God")

Be doers of the word of God,
Not simply those who hear.
Be ones who look into God's word,
Obey, and persevere.
Be quick to listen, slow to speak,
And slow to anger, too.
Put wrath aside; instead, be meek
And let God work in you.
Religion that is undefiled,
Religion that is pure
Will reach to help the orphaned child
And welcome all the poor.
If people come here poorly dressed,
To judge them is a sin.
The rich aren't better than the rest;
God welcomes poor ones in.

O Christ, you save us by God's grace
From having to obey.
Then freed to love, we can embrace
A life that seeks your way.
May we be doers of the word;
May faith shine through our deeds;
And as we seek to trust in God,
May ethics follow creeds.

Always There

Always There

Hello God, I called tonight
To talk a little while..
I need a friend who'll listen
To my anxiety and trial...

You see, I can't quite make it
Through a day just on my own...
I need your love to guide me,
So I'll never feel alone.

I want to ask you please to keep,
My family safe and sound.
Come and fill their lives with confidence
For whatever fate they're bound.

Give me faith, dear God, to face
Each hour throughout the day,
And not to worry over things
I can't change in any way.

I thank you God, for being home
And listening to my call,
For giving me such good advice
When I stumble and fall.

Your number, God, is the only one
That answers every time.
I never get a busy signal,
Never had to pay a dime.

So thank you, God, for listening
To my troubles and my sorrow.
Good night, God, I love You, too,
And I'll call again tomorrow!

Author Unknown


Another Day

ANOTHER DAY

Another day is dawning
Another day's begun
Another day to turn to God
And pray, "Thy will be done."

A day to slay doubt's dragon,
To know within your soul
That as you give yourself to Him
He'll bless and make you whole.

A day to live with purpose,
A day to show you care,
When others turn to you distraught
Confused or in despair.

A day to share God's blessings,
In quiet, countless ways
That touch the heart with hope and joy
And brighten cloudy days.

A day for sweet rejoicing,
For gratitude and praise
Because His love enfolds you
Both now, and all your days.

Author Unknown


Blessings or Cursings

"Blessings or Cursings!"

Today I stood at my window and cursed the pouring rain,
Today a desperate farmer prayed for thirsty fields of grain.
My weekend plans are ruined, it almost makes me cry
While the farmer lifts his arms and blesses the clouded sky.

The alarm went off on Monday and I cursed my work routine.
Next door a laid-off worker feels the empty pockets of his jeans.
I can't wait for my vacation, some time to take for me,
He doesn't know tonight how he'll feed his family.

I cursed my leaky roof and the grass I need to mow,
A homeless man downtown checks for change in the telephone.
I need a new car, mine is getting really old,
He huddles in a doorway, seeking shelter from the cold.

With blessings I'm surrounded, the rain, a job, a home,
Though my eyes are often blinded by the things
I think I own.

1 Thes. 5:18: "Give thanks in all circumstances,
for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

PRAYER: O holy God, we praise you for who you are and thank you for your blessings. May our lives be an expression of gratitude to you today. Amen.

Selected from God@Work newsletter.
St Mark's United Methodist Church,
8550 Pioneers Blvd., Lincoln Nebraska 68520 U.S.A.


Boxes

The Boxes

I have in my hands two boxes
Which God gave me to hold.
He said, "Put all your sorrows in the black,
And all your joys in the gold."
I heeded His words, and in the two boxes
Both my joys and sorrows I store,
But though the gold became heavier each day
The black was as light as before.
With curiosity, I opened the black
I wanted to find out why
And I saw, in the base of the box, a hole
Which my sorrows had fallen out by.
I showed the hole to God, and mused aloud,
"I wonder where my sorrows could be."
He smiled a gentle smile at me.
"My child, they're all here with me."
I asked, "God, why give me the boxes,
Why the gold, and the black with the hole?"
"My child, the gold is for you to count your blessings,
the black is for you to let go."

Author Unknown


Broken Dreams


Broken Dreams

 As children bring their broken toys
With tears for us to mend,
I brought my broken dreams to God
Because He was my friend.

But then instead of leaving Him
In peace to work alone,
I hung around and tried to help
With ways that were my own.

At last I snatched them back and cried,
"How could you be so slow"
"My child," He said, "What could I do?
You never did let go."

Author Unknown.
(Selected from Net 153 Sunday Funnies)


Call On Him

JUST CALL UPON HIM

The boy walked along the ocean shore . . . trying
not to stray. He looked up to his father saying,
"Dad, I want to play."

His father looked upon him, with love showing in his
eyes. "Do what you want to, my son . . . but do not
leave my side."

"I would never leave you Daddy, I love you way too
much." But the boy took a step away, out of his
father's range of touch.

He walked through the surf, the waves tickling one
toe. "If I take one more step in . . ." he thought,
"Father will never know."

His father called out to him, "Son, to me remain
true!" The boy thought with glee . . . "At the
moment I don't need you!"

His father felt a sadness, but he held his tongue.
Sometimes lessons need to be learned . . . even when
so young.

The boy stepped out a little further . . . the water
covering his waist. His father spoke with urgency .
. . his father spoke with haste.

"My son, come back to me," he said, "The day is
almost done!" "Not yet, Dad," the boy yelled, "I'm
having too much fun!"

But the boy did not have his father's insight so he
could not yet tell, The tide was coming in fast . .
. there would be no time to yell.

"Father!" he tried to scream, as the water covered
his head. "I need you now, Daddy!" was what the boy
had said.

And in a single instant his father was by his side.
"I thought you left me, Daddy . . . I thought you
went to hide."

The father looked upon his son . . . a tear
streaming down his cheek. The boy looked upon his
father . . . and cried the sobs of the meek.

"I would never leave you son . . . for I love you
just the same." "I was only waiting . . . for you to
call upon my name."


Author Unknown


Calm Down

" Calm Down"

By Monique Nicole Fox

No need to fuss or fight
or get yourself all uptight
cause God is like medicine
and will make you feel alright.
So calm down!

No need to consume yourself with grief
or rob yourself of sleep like a thief
cause God can lift your turmoil
and will give you heavenly relief.
So calm down!

No need to be sad, mope or frown
or let people bring your mood down
cause God's love everywhere
and the best inspiration in town.
So calm down!

No need to complain and think negative
or let depression cultivate and live
cause God has an abundance of light
and positivity to give.
So calm down!

No need to cheat, lie or steal
or commit suicide with an overdose of pills
cause God is the guidance you need
and can cure your life's sins and ills.
So calm down!

No need to dwell on what you haven't done
or races you haven't won
and unmapped goals
cause God has your life under control.
So calm down!


Christmas - Christ's Birthday

Christmas is your birthday Lord

Christmas is Your Birthday Lord

Christmas is your birthday Lord,
Jesus, Son of God.
You were born in Bethlehem,
as God's gift to man.
Lord we celebrate on earth,
Your glorious virgin birth.
You we honour and adore,
now and evermore.

How we wish the world would see,
that this special day,
centres, Jesus Lord, on Thee,
not Santa Claus or me!
Not on decorated trees,
or fancy shopping sprees,
But on You, the Son of God,
Jesus Christ the Lord.
But on You, the Son of God,
Jesus Christ the Lord.

For, two thousand years ago,
God to us did show.
He so loved the world He gave
His Son to us save.
All those who in Christ believe,
will from Him receive,
the gift of life eternally,
with Him always be.

How we wish the world would see,
that this special day,
centres, Jesus Lord, on Thee,
not Santa Claus or me!
Not on decorated trees,
or fancy shopping sprees,
But on You, the Son of God,
Jesus Christ the Lord.
But on You, the Son of God,
Jesus Christ the Lord.
But on You, the Son of God,
Jesus Christ the Lord.

Copyright ©1997 by Gilberto Barreto and Janet Goh


Christmas - Quiet my Heart, Lord

Quiet My Heart, Lord

Quiet my heart, Lord,
and show me a Christmas
as peaceful and calm as
an old cattle shed...

Slow down my pace, Lord,
and help me seek Jesus,
the Son of Your Love,
in a humble straw bed...

Steady my spirit, Lord,
call me from chaos
in simple surrender
to pray and rejoice...

Breakthrough the busy,
too-bright celebration,
and whisper your message,
"Be still...hear my voice..."

Be still, and know that I am God..."
Psalm 46:10

Author Unknown


Christmas - The Week Before

The Week Before Christmas

'Twas the week before Christmas, and the family so busy
Just watching them move would make one feel dizzy.

Wrapped packages were stacked almost over your head
Big ones and small ones, with labels that said,
"To Johnny, to Mary, to Susan and Tom,
To Billy, to Freddie, to Daddy and Mom..."

The kitchen was filled with cookies and savours,
And cakes and pies of all sizes and flavours.

The family was ready to honour Christ's birth,
And the whole house shook with holiday mirth.
Grandparents, nieces, nephews and cousins
Had arrived at the house--it seemed there were dozens.

Carols were playing on stereo loud speakers,
Grandkids, poking the gifts, were all "peekers."
How delightful to be with friends so dear,
Sad Christmas comes but once in each year.

Then someone asked, "What about church? A service tonight?
Where hymns will be sung and scriptures delight,
And we can honour this day Jesus was born?"
And the family grew quiet, withdrawn and forlorn.

None planned to go to the House of our Lord
to worship Him - the thought was deplored!

Why, there were games to watch on the colour TV,
And gifts to unwrap and neighbours to see.
There was food to digest and so much to sample;
There wasn't any time to go to God's Temple.

Why, God won't care that we haven't the time
When there's guests in our house and a chance to unwind.
So what if it's His birthday? We need this rest!
Why should we celebrate God's giving His Best?

So none of them went to church on that day
This was the time to stay home and to play.
The One Christmas honoured, Who gave of Himself,
They quietly dismissed and put on the shelf.

Author Unknown


Christ - Who Strengthens Me

Through Christ who Strengthens Me

I refuse to be discouraged, to be sad, or to cry;
I refuse to be downhearted, and here's the reason why:
I have a God who's mighty, who's sovereign and supreme;
I have a God who loves me, and by grace I'm on His team.

He is all-wise and powerful. Jesus is His name;
Though everything is changeable, my God remains the same.
My God knows all that's happening; from beginning to the end;
His presence is my comfort; He is my dearest Friend.

When sickness comes to weaken me, to bring my head down low,
I call upon my mighty God; into His arms I go.
When circumstances threaten me to rob me of my peace;
He draws me close unto His breast, where all my strivings cease.

When my heart near melts within me, and weakness takes control;
He gathers me into His arms, He soothes my heart and soul.
The great "I AM" is with me. My life is in His hand.
The "Son of God" is all my hope. It's in His strength I stand.

I refuse to be defeated. My eyes are on my God;
He has promised to be with me, as through this life I trod.
I'm looking past my circumstances, to Heaven's throne above;
My prayers have reached the heart of God. I'm resting in His love.

I give God thanks in everything. My eyes are on His face;
The battle's His, the victory mine; He'll help me win the race

Author Unknown



Cross in my Pocket

The Cross in my Pocket

I carry a cross in my pocket,
A simple reminder to me
That I am a Christian,
No matter where I may be.

This little cross isn't magic,
Nor is it a good luck charm.
It isn't meant to protect me
From every physical harm.

It's not for identification
For all the world to see.
It's simply an understanding
Between my Savior and me.

It reminds me too, to be thankful
For my blessings every day,
And to strive to serve Him better
In all that I do or say.

When I put my hand in my pocket
To bring out a coin or a key,
The cross is there to remind me
Of the price He paid for me.

It's also a daily reminder
Of the peace and comfort I share
With all who know my Master
And give themselves to His care.

So, I carry a cross in my pocket
Reminding none but me
That Jesus Christ is Lord of my life,
If only I'll let Him be.

Author Unknown


Crucify Him Again

Why Do We Crucify Him Again?

I say something rude
to someone who's lost,
And I've ruined my witness,
But they will pay the cost.
So I nail in the nails.

Can anyone see the Lord through me,
Or do they simply see my sins?
Am I living the life Christ wants me to,
Am I living the life of man?
So I plunge in the spear.

And when I fail to pray,
and my conversations with Him fade,
Does He patiently wait for my call,
Though it causes Him pain?
And I place the thorns upon His brow.

I lead a life of double standards,
One day good, the next one bad.
Can He quietly stand by
When He sees all I could have had?
And I ridicule my Lord once again.

For you see,
Each time we turn our backs,
and return to the world of sin,
It is then that you and I,
We crucify Him again.

(Brandy Cambell - 12th grade)


Different Perspective

The Difference

By Grace L. Naessens

I got up early one morning
and rushed right into the day;
I had so much to accomplish
that I didn't have time to pray.

Problems just tumbled about me
and heavier came each task;
Why doesn't God help me? I wondered.
He said,"But you didn't ask."

I wanted to see joy and beauty
but the day toiled on, gray and bleak.
I wondered why God didn't show me.
He said, But you didn't seek.

I tried to come into God's presence;
I used all my keys at the lock.
God gently and lovingly chided,
My child, you didn't knock.

I woke up early this morning
And paused before entering the day.
I had so much to accomplish
That I had to take time to pray!


Discouraged? The Race!

The Race

Defeat! He lay there silently, a tear dropped from his eye, "
There's no sense running anymore - three strikes. I'm out - why try?"
The will to rise has disappeared, all hope had fled away,
so far behind, so error prone, closer all the way.

"I've lost, so what's the use", he thought "I'll live with my disgrace."
But then he thought about his dad who soon he'd have to face.
Get up, and echo sounded low, get up and take your place.
You were not meant for failure here, so get up and win the race.
With borrowed will, "Get up!", it said, "You haven't lost at all,
for winning is not more than this, to rise each time you fall."

So he rose to win once more,
and with new commitment he resolved to win or lose,
at least he wouldn't quit.
So far behind the others now, the most he'd ever been,
still he gave it all he had, and ran as though to win.
Three times he'd fallen stumbling, three times he rose again.
To far behind to hope to win, he still ran to the end.

They cheered the winning runner as he crossed.
First place, head high and proud and happy, no falling, no disgrace.
But when the fallen youngster crossed the line, last place,
the crowd gave him the greater cheer for finishing the race.
And even though he came in last, with head bow low, not proud.
You would have thought he won the race, to listen to the crowd.
And to his dad he sadly said, "I didn't do so well".
To me, you won, his father said, you rose each time you fell.

And now when things seem dark and hard and difficult to face,
the memory of that little boy helps me in my own race.
For all of life is like that race, with ups and downs and all.
And all you have to do to win is rise each time you fall.
"Quit! Give up! You're beaten," they will shout it in my face.
But another voice within me says, "Get up and win that race!"

Author Unknown


Drinking from my Saucer

Drinking From My Saucer

I've never made a fortune and it's probably too late now,
But I don't worry about that much 'cause I'm happy anyhow.

And as I go along life's way I'm reaping better than I sow,
I'm drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed.

Haven't got a lot of riches and sometimes the going's tough,
But I've got loving ones around me and that makes me rich enough.

I thank God for his blessings and the mercies He's bestowed,
I'm drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed.

Oh, remember times when things went wrong my faith wore somewhat thin,
But all at once the dark clouds broke and sun peeped through again.

So Lord, help me not to gripe about the tough rows that I've hoed,
I'm drinking from my saucer cause my cup has overflowed.

If God gives me strength and courage when the way grows steep and rough,
I'll not ask for other blessings 'cause I'm already blessed enough.

And may I never be too busy to help others bear their loads,
Then I'll keep drinking from my saucer 'cause my cup has overflowed.

Author Unknown


Easter


EVERY DAY IS EASTER

"Easter comes but once a year,"
So many people say,
But to a person saved from sin,
It's Easter every day!

When one is saved or "born again"
Their life, to Christ, will give,
And as a new-born babe in Christ,
They've just begun to live.

"I am the resurrection life,"
The Saviour, one day, said;
And those believing in His word,
Shall live, though they be dead.

So when the Blood of Christ,
our Lord, Redeems a soul from sin;
Every day is Easter,
For Jesus lives within!

"He is Risen!"

THE GREATEST BLESSINGS AND NEWS
THE WORLD EVER RECEIVED
CAME FROM A GRAVE YARD NEAR JERUSALEM!

Author Unknown


Faith

Faith is Stronger than my Fears

Sometimes my cross is hard to bear
for there is darkness everywhere
and troubles pile around my door -
like autumn leaves forevermore.

The morning light seems far away
like I am stuck in yesterday.
My heart is beating like a drum -
I try to pray, but words won't come.

But then the sun begins to rise
and hope is born within my eyes.
A rainbow forms among my tears
for faith is stronger than my fears.

Author Unknown



Friendship

A Friend Should Be
[Unknown Author]

A friend should be radical;
They should love you when you're unlovable,
Hug you when you're unhuggable,
And bear you when you're unbearable.
A friend should be fanatical;
They should cheer when the whole world boos,
Dance when you get good news,
And cry when you cry too.
But most of all, a friend should be mathematical,
They should multiply the joy, Divide the sorrow,
Subtract the past, And add to tomorrow,
Calculate the need deep in your heart,
And always be bigger than the sum of all their parts.


Froth

Froth by Allan Diprose

I stood in the queue at Terminal Two, clutching so hard to my pack.
A collection of things, success on Earth brings - was proud of my plan of attack.
I hoped to drop all on the mercy of scales and plead for them to let through
My trappings of life and proof of success - would impress those who gaze at my view.

Yet I had to wait alone at that gate, for attention I thought I was due.
At last he stood there to process my fare, misunderstanding my stew.
Official unfazed, one question he raised, as I continued to wheedle:
Will it fit through the eye of God's needle? Or is it a camel parade?

There were medals I'd earned for being humble, the letter I got from the Queen,
The plates from my new Lamborghini, a record of stocks I had sold,
A large portrait framed of my day in the sun with friend from Capitol Hill,
Certificate - proof of mansion in Greece - and treasure chest laden with gold.

So vainly I tried to slip and to slide, those items attached to my dream.
All that would fit was my ticket and me, plus the treasure I sent on before.
Everything else was rejected as froth, tagged hay, wood and stubble or straw.
I gazed in dismay at rejected array, shed tears as they swept up the floor.

A lesson I learned from souvenirs spurned, is we travel light on that flight.
Invest enough time in things that will rhyme with skills in demand on that shore.
What are the things so important in life? Which the seeds that transplant?
Point out the stones that are precious to God and hurdles I need to surmount.

Thoughts inspired from reading:
Matthew 19:24, 1 Timothy 6:7, Matthew 6:20, 1 Corinthians 3:12, 1 Peter 2:4-7


God Is!

"God Is!"

He is the First and Last, the Beginning and the End!
He is the keeper of Creation and the Creator of all!
He is the Architect of the universe and
The Manager of all times!

He always was, He always is, and He always will be...
Unmoved, Unchanged, Undefeated, and never Undone!

He was bruised and brought healing!
He was pierced and eased pain!
He was persecuted and brought freedom!
He was dead and brought life!
He is risen and brings power!
He reigns and brings Peace!

The world can't understand him,
The armies can't defeat Him,
The schools can't explain Him, and
The leaders can't ignore Him.
Herod couldn't kill Him,
The Pharisees couldn't confuse Him, and
The people couldn't hold Him!
Nero couldn't crush Him,
Hitler couldn't silence Him,
The New Age can't replace Him, and
Donahue can't explain Him away!

He is light, love, longevity, and Lord.
He is goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, and God.
He is Holy, Righteous, mighty, powerful, and pure.
His ways are right,
His word is eternal,
His will is unchanging, and
His mind is on me.
He is my Redeemer,
He is my Savior,
He is my guide, and
He is my peace!
He is my Joy,
He is my comfort,
He is my Lord, and
He rules my life!

I serve Him because His bond is love,
His burden is light, and
His goal for me is abundant life.
I follow Him because He is the wisdom of the wise,
The power of the powerful,
The ancient of days, the ruler of rulers,
The leader of leaders, the overseer of the overcomers, and
The sovereign Lord of all that was and is and is to come.
And if that seems impressive to you, try this for size.
His goal is a relationship with ME!

He will never leave me,
Never forsake me,
Never mislead me,
Never forget me,
Never overlook me, and
Never cancel my appointment in His appointment book!

When I fall, He lifts me up!
When I fail, He forgives!
When I am weak, He is strong!
When I am lost, He is the way!
When I am afraid, He is my courage!
When I stumble, He steadies me!
When I am hurt, He heals me!
When I am broken, He mends me!
When I am blind, He leads me!
When I am hungry, He feeds me!
When I face trials, He is with me!
When I face persecution, He shields me!
When I face problems, He comforts me!
When I face loss, He provides for me!
When I face Death, He carries me Home!

He is everything for everybody, everywhere,
Every time, and in every way.
He is God, He is faithful.
I am His, and He is mine!

My Father in heaven outstrips the fathers of this world.
So, if you're wondering why I feel so secure,understand this...
He said it and that settles it.
God is in control, I am on His side, and
That means all is well with my soul.

Everyday is a blessing for... GOD Is!

I love the Lord and thank Him for all that he does in my life,
therefore, I'm passing this on. Yes, I do love Jesus.
He is my source of existence and my Saviour.
He keeps me functioning each and every day.

Without Him, I will be nothing...
Without Him, I am nothing...
But with Him I can do all things.
~Philippians 4:13

Author Unknown


God's Goodness

When faith grows weak and doubts arise
Recall God's love and tender care;
Remind yourself of all He's done
And of those times He answered prayer. -D. De Haan


Remembering God's goodness is a good cure for doubt.




God's Will for Our Lives

God's Will For Our Lives


A young, new preacher was walking with an older,
more seasoned preacher in the garden one day
and feeling a bit insecure
about what God had for him to do,
he was inquiring of the older preacher.
The older preacher walked up to a rosebush
and handed the young preacher a rosebud
and told him to open it without tearing off any petals.

The young preacher looked in disbelief
at the older preacher and was trying to figure out
what a rosebud could possibly have to do
with his wanting to know the WILL OF GOD
for his life and for his ministry.
Because of his utmost respect for the older preacher,
he proceeded to TRY to unfold the rose,
while keeping every petal intact.
It wasn't long before he realized how it
was impossible to do so.

Noticing the younger preacher's inability
to unfold the rosebud while keeping it intact,
the older preacher began to tell the following poem...



 Unfolding the Rosebud

It is only a tiny rosebud,
A flower of GOD's design;
But I cannot unfold the petals
With these clumsy hands of mine.
The secret of unfolding flowers
Is not known to such as I.
GOD opens this flower so sweetly,
When in my hands they fade and die.
If I cannot unfold a rosebud,
This flower of GOD's design,
Then how can I think I have wisdom
To unfold this life of mine?
So I'll trust in Him for His leading
Each moment of every day.
I will look to Him for His guidance
Each step of the pilgrim way.
The pathway that lies before me,
Only my heavenly Father knows.
I'll trust Him to unfold the moments,
Just as He unfolds the rose.

Author Unknown


Gratitude

"The World Is Mine"

Today, upon the bus I saw a lovely girl with golden hair,
I envied her, she seemed so gay, and I wished I were so fair,
When suddenly she rose to leave, and I saw her hobble down the aisle,
She had one leg, and wore a crutch, and as she passed, a smile.

Oh God, forgive me when I whine...
I have two legs. The world is mine.

And then I stopped to buy some sweets,
The lad who sold them had such charm,
I talk to him: he seemed so glad... if I were late 'twould do no harm,
And as I left he said to me: "Thank you. You have been so kind.
It's nice to talk to folks like you. You see," he said, "I'm blind."

Oh God, forgive me when I whine...
I have two eyes. The world is mine.

Later, walking down the street, I saw a child with eyes of blue.
He stood and watched the others play; it seemed he knew not what to do.
I stopped a moment, then I said, "Why don't you join the others, dear?"
He looked ahead without a word, and then I knew he could not hear.

Oh God, forgive me when I whine...
I have two ears. The world is mine.

With legs to take me where I'd go,
With eyes to see the sunset glow,
Two ears to hear what I would know...

Oh God, forgive me when I whine...
I'm blessed indeed. The world is mine.

by Red Foley

Selected from Pastor Tim's Illustrations.




He Gives more Grace

"He Gives More and More"

by Annie Johnson Flint

He gives more grace when the burdens grow greater
He sends more strength when the labours increase
To added affliction he addeth his mercies,
To multiplied trials, his multiplied peace.

When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed when the day is half done
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources,
Our Father's full giving has only begun.

His love has no limit; his grace has no measure;
His power has no boundary known unto men.
For out of his infinite riches in Jesus,
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again.


How You Spend Your Dash


The Dash

I read of a man who stood to speak
At the funeral of his friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
From the beginning .. to the end.

He noted that first came the date of her birth
And spoke of the second with tears.
But he said that what mattered most of all
Was the dash between the years. (1908 - 1999)

For that dash represents all the time
That she spent alive on earth.
And now only those who loved her
Know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not, how much we own;
The cars, the house, the cash.
What matters is how we live and love
And how we spend our dash.

So think about this long and hard,
Are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left,
(You could be at the "dash mid-range".)

If we could just slow down enough to consider
What's true and what's real.
And always try to understand
The way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger,
And show appreciation more.
And love the people in our lives

Like we'd never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect,
And more often wear a smile.
Remembering that this special dash
Might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy is being read
With your life's actions to rehash..
Wouldn't you be pleased with the things they have to say
About how you spent your dash?

- Linda Ellis


I Believe

"I Believe"

I believe in miracles and dreams that will come true,
And I believe in happiness and friendship, through and through
I believe that when you cry your tears are not in vain,
And when you're sad and lonely someone knows that you're in pain.

I believe that when we laugh a sparkle starts to shine,
And before you know these sparks will spread
From more hearts than just mine.
I believe the gifts you have are there for you to share
And when you give them from the heart, the whole world knows you care.

I believe that if you give, even just to one,
That gift will grow in magnitude before the day is done.
I believe that comfort comes from giving part of me,
And if I share with others, there's more for all so see.
I believe that love is still the greatest gift of all,
And when it's given from the heart, Love will conquer all.

Author Unknown - Selected from EMail Ministry newsletter.


I Dreamt I Stood at Calvary

"I Dreamt I stood at Calvary"

I dreamt I stood at Calvary
And saw three crosses there;
On left and right were nailed two thieves,
The cross between was bare.
A soldier took his sword in hand
Then pointed it at me:
He said "You there, prepare to die.
That cross is meant for thee."
I quickly fell upon my knees,
For mercy did I cry;
As strong hands grabbed my hands and feet,
I shouted "Why, oh why?"

And then a voice both soft and sweet
Was heard above the din;
"Let this one go, take me instead.
I'll pay his price for sin."
With his body torn and bleeding
And thorn marks round his head;
With bruises where they beat him,
He stepped into my stead.
Then Jesus laid upon the cross,
His life did freely give,
That all my sins be washed away
And through his death, I'd live.

He stretched his arms out open wide,
No struggle did he make.
As they prepared to nail him there
His life they meant to take.
They drove the spikes in hands and feet,
And slammed the cross in place.
His bones were shaken out of joint,
And blood ran down his face.
"Forgive them, Father," was his cry,
"They know not what they do."
God must have wept as he looked on
His Son - a sacrifice for you.

When I awoke, the night had passed
And sunshine flooded in;
I cried: "Dear Lord, forgive me please,
And cleanse me of my sin.
For you sent down your only son,
A ransom for the lost:
And I see you included me,
When counting out the cost."
Yes, I dreamt I stood at Calvary
And saw those crosses three;
Yet no longer do I need to fear
Knowing Jesus died for me.

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I Met the Master

I Met the Master - Face to Face

I had walked life's way with an easy tread,
Had followed where comfort and pleasures led,
Until one day in a quiet place
I met the Master face to face.

With station and rank and wealth for my goal,
Much thought for my body, but none for my soul,
I had entered to win in life's mad race,
When I met the Master face to face.

I met Him, and knew Him and blushed to see
That His eyes full of sorrow, were fixed on me;
And I faltered and fell at His feet that day,
While my castles melted and vanished away.

Melted and vanished and in their place
Naught else did I see but the Masters face.
And I cried aloud, "Oh, make me meet
To follow the steps of Thy wounded feet."

My thought is now for the souls of men,
I have lost my life to find it again,
E'er since one day in a quite place
I met the Master face to face.

Author: Unknown


If I Knew

"If I Knew Tomorrow, Today!"

If I knew it would be the last time
that I'd see you walk out the door,
I would hug and then I'd kiss you
and call you back for more.

But surely there's always tomorrow
to make up for an oversight,
and we always get a second chance
to fix it up alright.

There'll always be another day
to say our "I love you",
And certainly, another chance
to say, "Is there something I can do?"

But just in case I might be wrong,
and today is all I get,
I'd like to let you know right now
I'm really glad we met.

If Tomorrow is not promised
to young or old alike,
Then Today may be the last chance
I can come to see you on my bike.

So if you're waiting for tomorrow,
why not do it now today?
For if tomorrow never comes,
you might regret the day
that you didn't take that extra time
for a smile, a hug, or kiss
and you were just too busy
to grant someone, what they wished.

So hold your loved ones close today,
and whisper in their ear,
that you love them very much and
you'll always hold them dear.

Take time to say "I'm sorry,"
"Please forgive me," "thank you," or "it's okay".
And if tomorrow never comes,
you'll have no regrets about today.

Author Unknown


Jesus Christ

J.E.S.U.S. C.H.R.I.S.T.

J esus, Son of God Eternal
E verlasting Lord is He,
S avior of a world of sinners,
U niversal King to be,
S ought us, brought us victory.

C hrist is due all adoration,
H umbly born to save our race,
R uler of the whole creation
I ntercedes and gives us grace,
S aves us from sin's condemnation,
T ruly worthy of all praise!

Author Unknown


Jesus - Technology & Modems?

Did Jesus Use a Modem?

Did Jesus use a modem,
At the Sermon on the Mount?
Did He ever try a broadcast fax,
To send His message out?
Did the disciples carry beepers,
As they went about their route?
Did Jesus use a modem,
At the Sermon on the Mount?

Did Paul ever use a Laptop,
With lots of RAM and ROM?
Were his letters posted on a BBS,
At Paul.Rome.Com?
Did the man from Macedonia,
Send an E-Mail saying "Come?"
Did Paul ever use a Laptop,
With lots of RAM and ROM?

Did Moses use a joystick,
At the parting of the Sea?
And a Satellite Tracking System,
To show him where to be?
Did he write the law on tablets,
Or are they really on CD?
Did Moses use a joystick,
At the parting of the Sea?

Did Jesus really die for us,
One day upon a tree?
Or was it just a Hologram,
Or high tech. wizardry?
Can you download the Video Clip,
To play on your PC?
Did Jesus really die for us,
One day upon a tree?

Have the wonders of this modern age,
Made you question what is true?
How a single man, in a simple time,
Could offer life anew?
How a sinless life, a cruel death,
Then a glorious life again,
Could offer more to a desperate world,
Than the stuff of earthly men?

If in your life, the voice of God,
Is sometimes hard to hear.
With other voices calling,
His doesn't touch your ear.
Then set aside your modem
and all your fancy gear,
With willing heart go seek Him out,
Oh miracle! He's there!

(Author unknown)


Judge Gently

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JUDGE GENTLY

Pray, don't find fault with the man that limps
Or stumbles along the road.
Unless you have worn the shoes he wears
Or struggled beneath his load.

There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt
Though hidden away from view.
Or the burden he bears placed on your back
Might cause you to stumble too.

Don't sneer at the man who's down today
Unless you have felt the blow
That caused his fall or felt the shame
That only the fallen know.

You may be strong but still the blows
That was his if dealt to you
In the selfsame way, at the selfsame time
Might cause you to stagger too.

Don't be too harsh with the man that sins
Or pelt him with word or stone
Unless you are sure - yea, doubly sure -
That you have no sins of your own.

For you know, perhaps,
If the tempter's voice should whisper as soft to you
As it did to him when he went astray
It might cause you to falter too.

Author Unknown

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Just Checking

Just Checking In

A minister passing through his church
in the middle of the day,
Decided to pause by the altar
and see who had come to pray.

Just then the back door opened,
a man came down the aisle,
The minister frowned as he saw the man
hadn't shaved in a while.

His shirt was kinda shabby
and his coat was worn and frayed.
The man knelt, he bowed his head,
then rose and walked away.

In the days that followed,
each noon time came this chap,
Each time he knelt just for a moment,
a lunch pail in his lap.

Well, the minister's suspicions grew,
with robbery a main fear,
He decided to stop the man and ask him,
"What are you doing here?"

The old man said, he worked down the road.
Lunch was half an hour.
Lunchtime was his prayer time,
for finding strength and power

"I stay only moments, see,
because the factory is so far away;
As I kneel here talking to the Lord,
this is kinda what I say:

"I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD,
HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER'S FRIENDSHIP
AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN.

DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY,
BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS JIM, JUST CHECKING IN."

The minister feeling foolish,
told Jim, that this was fine.
He told the man he was welcome to come
and pray just anytime.

Time to go, Jim smiled, said "Thanks."
He hurried to the door.
The minister knelt at the alter,
he'd never done it before.

His cold heart melted, warmed with love,
and met with Jesus there.
As the tears flowed, in his heart,
he repeated old Jim's prayer:

"I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, LORD,
HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER'S FRIENDSHIP
AND YOU TOOK AWAY MY SIN.

I DON'T KNOW MUCH OF HOW TO PRAY,
BUT I THINK ABOUT YOU EVERYDAY.
SO, JESUS, THIS IS ME, JUST CHECKING IN."

Past noon one day, the minister noticed
that old Jim hadn't come.
As more days passed without Jim,
he began to worry some.

At the factory, he asked about Jim,
learning he was ill.
The hospital staff was worried,
but he had given them a thrill.

The week that Jim was with them,
brought changes in the ward.
His smiles, a joy contagious.
Changed people were his reward.

The head nurse couldn't understand
why Jim was so glad,
When no flowers, calls or cards came,
not a visitor he had.

The minister stood beside his bed,
and voiced the nurse's concern
No friends came to show they cared.
He had nowhere to turn.

Looking surprised, old Jim spoke up
and with a winsome smile;
"The nurse is wrong, she couldn't know,
that in here all the while

"Everyday at noon He's here,
a dear friend of mine, you see,
He sits right down, takes my hand,
leans over and says to me:

"I JUST CAME AGAIN TO TELL YOU, JIM,
HOW HAPPY I HAVE BEEN,
SINCE WE FOUND EACH OTHER'S FRIENDSHIP,
AND I TOOK AWAY YOUR SIN.
I ALWAYS LOVE TO HEAR YOU PRAY,
I THINK ABOUT YOU EACH DAY,
AND SO JIM, THIS IS JESUS JUST CHECKING IN."

Author Unknown