Tuesday, December 31, 2013

Desired Thirst

New Year's Eve.
"What should our yearnings be for?"  Hmm...

"Holy Spirit, living Water,
rain on us some more
that liquid so alive for to
rejuvenate, restore!
Even quenching to that depth
whence nothing else has been...
even spilling out from me
to bless the lives of men!

'I will never thirst again...'
You said to me before.
Oh, but since I drank of it
I want IT more and more!
Even running over as
Your holy Scriptures say,
so much that I may share with all
upon the Narrow Way!

Again, I thirst for Who You are
and for the life You bring!
Unto the promise of the Scripture
ever shall I cling!
The only thirst that I desire
is that which You will quench
and, in the very same, my Lord,
request I You to drench!"

The Living Water.  Holy Spirit rain!  The World alive!  There is nothing else like it!!
Being New Year's Eve, what a wonderful time to set our hearts on seeking that which satisfies so many facets of this life!
I'm in.  How about you?
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Monday, December 30, 2013

First sight!

What a sight to witness first thing!
The coffee is not even done yet, but there is a

Storm above the hills afar,
approaching are the clouds;
thunders start to roar as if
they were protesting crowds;
lightning bolts unruly, strike
at anything at will,
and in the middle of it all
He whispers "Peace, be still."

The sun is not yet to appear
due the storm to brew...
half the sky yet unaffected,
glorious the blue!
See the person of the Father
as He walks along,
hear the voice of God cry out,
and heavenly His song!

Morning yet again anew,
distinct in many ways.
And unto God Creator is
so many words of praise!
So many are His fingerprints
upon the early dawn;
and so exciting is His proof
there be no time to yawn!

Morning on the rolling land once more.
For a moment, set aside each chore
and SEE the One Who makes the very day:
God the Lord--the Truth, the Life, the Way!

Enjoy the coffee and whatever kind of day is beginning.
7632

Sunday, December 29, 2013

Christmas ANEW!

I heard it again several times this season.  I just have to comment on it:

All creation sing...
harmony to ring...
His glories, oh, to ring--
Jesus, Jesus Lord!

All His glory see!
In Him, all things to be!
Christmas jubilee--
Christ, Messiah, Lord!

"Just another Christmas...?"
A statement NEVER true!
Jesus--real and so alive
for anyone...AND YOU!
For He is celebration
at Christmas and ALWAYS!
See the glory...see the jubil...
all throughout the days!

Yes, all creation sing!
Jesus--only King!
Serve Him...love Him...laud...
for He alone is God!

"Just another Christmas..."  I hear it too often, and from the spectrum of age.  If you will make Jesus the center of your Christmas, then nothing will ever be the same again!
Enjoy the NEW life that Jesus is every single day!
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Saturday, December 28, 2013

Result:

Oh, the world we live in.
In the eyes of this world, motives and rewards are turned upside down from that of the spiritual realm.  What God may punish man for, this world would seem to reward and glorify man for.
It just doesn't seem right...it just doesn't feel right...it just isn't right...

"O make me to surpass the trite;
to dwell where I shall be contrite;
genuine, my motives each."
My heart and soul would thus beseech.

The praises and how they appeal,
the accolades and how they feel,
in perspective let me keep,
lest, Thy heavy hand, I reap.

All of life, all living nigh,
to worship and to glorify
The Person that is really Three;
mine escort thus--Integrity!"

The morals and motives of this world have been turned upside down.  Submitting to God and His ways will keep yours right-side-up.
Can you handle such 'submission?'
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Friday, December 27, 2013

Where HE wants!

Living for God means that He has a purpose for you constantly.

Nevermore alone to be!
Jesus, Jesus, Lord to me,
not only to be at my side
but deep in me to sure abide!
Wherever or whenever I,
my Savior, He will occupy!
I desire ever be
where Christ my Lord desires me!

Jesus, Jesus...ALWAYS!
His Presence is so wonderful!  His touch is so constant!
Give your heart to Him and NEVER accept the "same old...same old..." again!
3733

Monday, December 23, 2013

Emotional

How can I be emotionless
on such a glorious day?
In spite of what goes on does come
the Truth, the Life, the Way!
Snowflakes mix with tears as the
reality sets in:
God, Himself, has come to save
and free us from all sin!

I cannot be emotionless
as tears, unhindered, flow!
JESUS CHRIST IS BORN THIS DAY!
O come, ye peoples, KNOW!
Beyond the stress of gifting be
simplicity of Truth-
reality of that which we
have clung to since our youth!

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus—
O so beautiful, so real!
Let Christmas come be something you
can live and you can feel!
Let go of all the world gives
and cling to Christ always!
So far beyond mere ‘season’ be
the Truth, the Life, the Way!!

Yes, it is an emotional time…but far greater!  Jesus is here and real even when those emotions are all messed up!
Let your emotions flow during Christmas.  Not the stress of who gets what, but the awe, wonder, spectacle and humility that is as we draw closer to Jesus Christ THE King!
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Sunday, December 22, 2013

The same question

Christmas again.
The same issues...the same songs...the same questions?

"What Child is this?"  the world cries
yet after all these years.
Will even they accept the Answer
midst unfounded fears?
Jesus, Jesus is this Child!
O say His Name aloud!!
It may not be at all "correct,"
but it is still allowed!

"What Child is this?"  But surely I
have found the Answer living!
Cry out His Name: "JESUS CHRIST!"
the gift that keeps on giving!
Society, though, gives to us
a gift expected not:
scorn...rejection...ridicule...
the same that Jesus got?

"What Child is this?" the query lives
and all must have reply!
This Child, He is Jesus Christ,
Son of God Most High!
And He is longing to be known
in oh, so many ways--
foremost, as Savior of the soul
and object of our praise!

When you hear that song again with its living question, make sure you have the right Answer already settled!
HIS NAME IS JESUS!
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GATHERING

A quiet, clear evening.  "Silent night, holy night..." is more than just a song from ago, it is quite inclusive of what is seen right now.

Forsaking not assembling
to revel in the sight!
The rationale of jubilation:
holiest of night!
Gathered, too, so far on high,
Heaven's host aglow--
each be yet a wick inside
the Father's palm, you know?

And why be they a-flickering?
Life, it comes about!
They honor yet anew the birth
of One Who is devout!
Shining ever-faithfully
above that peerless night,
even to enlighten us,
this season, to delight!

Oh, but far beyond the season,
Christ remains aglow!
Nor to cease festivities,
blessings to bestow!
Minded of His fervent love
by that which flickers e'er,
commemorating Jesus' birth:
Perfection come to share!

The glory and beauty of creation.  The same is even respectful of The Creator!  Join in and give honor to Jesus the King, born for us this day!
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Friday, December 20, 2013

Changing Times?

The bills, they are amassing,
costs are out of hand...
it seems there is no end to the
corruption in the land...
Hope--it seems to lessen with
the passing of each day...
hidden motives in what people
think and do and say...

Different are the times at all
than those so long ago?
They sought the same things as our hearts,
forward yet to go;
seeking...searching...listening--
One voice, though, to attend;
The Answer--He is yet alive
and closer than a friend!
Yes, Jesus--far above the presents,
greater than the stress!
The greatest thing that we can do
is see who we could bless!
Focus on the goodness that
is dwelling oh, so deep--
emulate His Majesty
for memories to keep!

Jesus is STILL The Answer!
Millenniums later, He still remains THE Catalyst in living and in lives!  Let us not get so caught up in the issues that we miss the whole point of life!
There was a lot going on back then, there is a lot going on right now, the One constant be The Answer: Jesus Christ!
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Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Christmas Beauty

Again, so very beautiful are the leftovers from last week's storm.
We see them everywhere as we prepare for Jesus' birthday!

Ivory in the morning,
the glory and the glare!
Of atmospheric tyranny,
it seems so unaware.
Peace--it has returned and now
what beauty in the wake!
So much more are the wonders than
the measures we must take.

The chaos before Christmas
for now is in the past.
So glorious, the scenery
but how long will it last?
O celebrate Lord Jesus Christ!
Enjoy, but keep an eye
on that which is yet called for and
the ever-telling sky!

Be careful as you go about today, but don't let anything bridle your celebration of CHRISTMAS! 
JESUS CHRIST IS BORN!
7628

Monday, December 16, 2013

Sweet fellowship!

Oh, what a blessed people we are!  Have we even the slightest clue...

How wonderful be fellowship
with even only God!
As life begins to celebrate
and shower Him with Laud,
God--for He remains Himself,
staying so in touch!
He was, He is, He is to come--
none other merits such!

Yes, wonderful, sweet fellowship
and even at this time!
Hear the music...hear the voices...
oh, the bells to chime
all in honor of The King,
a King like not another!
God Almighty in the flesh...
and closer than a brother!

Fellowship, blest fellowship,
because of Christ the King!
"WE NOW HAVE ACCESS TO THE FATHER!
SING, YE LIVING, SING
that melody alive availed
to all who enter in:
perfect love, perfect grace,
forgiveness of all sin!"

All glorious, that fellowship
this Season celebrates!
Give glory unto God alone
for all that He creates!

Do not take CHRISTmas for granted!
It is God's gift to us because He loves us so much!
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Beautiful NEW Day!

It is so beautiful outside here!
We are so very fortunate to be able to see God on the move as He creates the day.
Can you see it where you are?

Ah, the glory of creation:
winter once more yet!
How many are the memories
today that life will get?
God, Himself, to feed the feeble
in His precious ways,
while I attempt record the sight
in words that bring Him praise...

There is a flock of tiny birds
(whose name I do not know,)
dining on the 'stuff' I threw out
for to melt the snow!
The otters at the bottom of
the property still grind...
but in the fresh of fallen,
entertainment, do I find!
And when the morning rays begin
to reach the waiting land,
the rolling hills begin to glow,
and give the Lord a hand!

Oh, so evident is His response
by living so alive!
All the happy signs of life
with morning to arrive!
Let each of us give Him the same
as we begin the day.
For He is worthy, for He is
the Truth, the Life the Way!

Monday morning again?  NO!  Monday morning ANEW!
Why not see THIS Monday as another GIFT and not just another day?
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Thursday, December 12, 2013

Happy Birthday!!

O listen to the sound!
But hear it and resound!
Christmas celebration...
oh, savor sweet relation!

"Jesus, Jesus, Happy Birthday!
Lord, we love You so!
We honor You in ways far more
than mortal men may know!
You are worthy of those "things"
that just cannot be bought!
And Jesus, to give You 'too much,'
the same, we just cannot!!

Happy, happy birthday, Jesus...
green and red and white...
In seeing You remain the core,
we take such great delight!
So many the distractions and
the trappings of the day,
but You remain the Reason and
the One and only Way!

Oh Happy Birthday, Jesus, Jesus!
Come, become the cause!
We empty out our hands that we
may give You due applause!
Oh, may we seek to please YOU as
we set aside each list
that "peace on earth, goodwill to men
is foremost to exist!"

It's Jesus' birthday.
We are not to stress out for 30 days and then pay for it for three years!  We are to celebrate Him by loving one another.
How much does that REALLY cost?
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Touch-and-go...

Life happens.
It doesn't care what your body says.
It doesn't care what the calendar says.
It doesn't even care what your bank statement says.
But you know what?  GOD CARES!

Elements aloft to cease-
adventure has begun;
12 days yet in front of Them
and obstacles to shun!
The glory of creation glows;
"How far will be today...?"
oh, but savor all the scenery
upon the Narrow Way!

Christmas coming steadily,
let nothing interfere!
Sheer, unbridled happiness,
loved ones coming near!
So many are the issues...oh,
but set them all aside
and enter into celebration
come with Christmastide!

Not even are the elements
allowed to interfere!
Even if the Living Christ
be all that you have near,
enjoy His Presence!  For He is
the only One to last!
Jesus, Jesus-He IS Christmas!
Worship Him at last!!

Already is there possibility that not everyone expected may be here.
Already is it settled that not everyone will get what they want!
But cling to the certainties of Christmas:
JESUS CHRIST IS ALIVE AND GOD LOVES EVERY ONE OF US!
7624

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Holy One Come!

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus...the ONLY reason for the season!

Oh, the advent of the One
Who wrought such peace within!
Propitiation is the same
for every kind of sin.
His arrival comes with tidings
"Peace!  Goodwill to men!"
It echoes through the ages, yes,
as timely now as then!

"Oh holy One, through miracle
come forth for every man,
we stand upon the promises
awaiting in Your plan.
As we draw upon the joy
of all that's been fulfilled,
we avail ourselves, oh Lord,
to that which You have willed.
We celebrate You, Jesus!
Our gratitude to raise!
We gather near the Manger with
the hosts to give You praise!
Boldly, then, to scatter with
Your grace to all the earth
with the revelation of
just how much we are worth!"

Jesus Christ come.
Only in Jesus can we know our true worth.  As we celebrate Him for the next few weeks, give Him the glory and attention that He so deserves.  You will receive far more in return than anything someone could "purchase."
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Monday, December 9, 2013

Winter Show

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus...
He is and was and ever shall be, no matter what the weather does!

Winter be upon the land.
Sunlight would attempt to stand,
but, on a late, December morn
snow clouds all alone be born!
None of them to be 'just talk,'
as evidenced upon the walk
and carried, oh-so-gently, by
the ever-present Norther Sigh.

"Oh winter, entertain us so.
Your wonder we would truly know.
In the blessing...in the blast...
your impression sure be cast!
In giving thanks for everything,
of your glories, all would sing
in the season of The King
Who bringeth life to everything!"

Celebrate The King--JESUS!
Yes, even in the worst of elements, He remains King of Kings and Lord of Lords!
Give Him the honor so due!
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HEAR!!

Listen!
The message and the Truth of Christmas is ringing out...

HALLELUJAH!  Hear the bells!
The time, it is at hand!
Oh, the many evergreens
accentuate the land;
here, upon the hill, do I,
the scape, so freely scan...
His advent to ponder:
Son of God, Son of man.

Hallelujah!  Hear the verses
of the choirs all!
Even from the holy heights
such melody to fall!
Wishing yet another
"Happy Birthday" to the Son-
Him to Whom we cede "Lord,
not our wills but Yours be done!

Hallelujah!  Hear the concert
honoring The King!
Listen close and harmonize-
a joyful noise to ring!
See the Reason for the season
with the sight within
and you will see the Father's Gift
to liberate all men!

So many are the distractions of the day.  Don't let them!  Stand fast and focus of the truth of JESUS as you go about the days!
3312

Attempt #1

The snowplow came by early this a.m.
Almost everything in town has been cancelled for the day, so we thought we would go to McD's for some breakfast.
I took the shovel and destroyed the snowplow's artwork at the end of the driveway.  We crawled out to the highway.  Yuk!  This is worst than I thought. 62 is usually a lot better in these situations.  We'll try anyway.
We drive about 500 yards.  Forget this!  The ice is even thicker over the hill!
U-turn in the middle of the highway, back to the house for oatmeal.
Thank You, Lord, that we still have electricity.

Wednesday, December 4, 2013

Simple Afternoon

Smoke, so slowly rising from
the neighbor burning leaves,
distracting from the icicles
dripping from the eaves...
another Ozark afternoon
before the equinox,
before is winter to approach
with its many shocks!

The cardinal and the robin dine
where I have scattered seed...
(though the Father tends to them,
I like to intercede;)
and over at that feeder with
the grain to overflow,
the squirrel and the chipmunk are
to put on quite a show.

Oh, the blest simplicity,
this afternoon, to reign.
For I take great delight in that
which most consider "plain,"
as I am shown, without a doubt,
His loving, caring touch
that is so real in everything,
so very, very much!

Simple afternoon.
Nothing complicated...just "life goes on."  But it is life that usually goes on quite unnoticed! 
Did you see it?  Can you see it?
Do you have time to even look?
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Silent Morning

Here it comes...
The radio is blasting about it...the t.v. is trying to explain it...but nothing can prevent it...WINTER!
And three weeks early...(according to the calendar!)
Town will now be scrambling to acquire necessary supplies...
All types of people suddenly turn into just two types: those who help and those who don't.  (Fortunately, there are more that want to help out than the ones who only seek to take advantage.)
During this season, make sure you keep an eye on your neighbor, he may need your help more than you think.

Silence on the land again.  This time, however, not even the song of birds to exist.  No whisper...  nothing to disturb the branches...nothing to rustle the brush...nothing to bring about that well-known term "Wind Chill Factor."  The only movement to be seen is in the eastern sky, approaching faster than it appears, travelling far beyond it's own sound; and, save for the vapor trail, I probably would not be aware of that jet at all until it is behind me!  But the words flow...

     Silence on the land again
     stillness also to attend
     before is come the winter storm-
     December in its truest form!
     Icicles, oh, to glisten bright
     in the rays before the fright!
     Entertainment very free:
     the silent morning--blessed be!

No matter what the forecast is, try to make the most of life.  Even in the fury of the storm, the fingerprints of Creator God are very evident!
3324

That Blessed Story

That time of year...
Just another "story" told at this time?
Hmmm...

The magnitude of mercy,
the gravity of grace...
the scope of His salvation
but daily I to face.
In labor and in letter,
reward to sure remain
from the Christ of Calvary--
Receiver of the stain.

The God of all creation,
reduced unto a man,
obedient unto the Father's
One redemption plan!
Not only blind obedience
but passion without peer!
Enthroned in glory, yet He chose
to die for evil here.

Oh, the "old, old story..."
but everyday anew
because He is alive and seen
in what we say and do.
Let us be sure our labors
so emulate The Son
that His life would be born again
in one by one by one...

But it's MORE than 'just a story...!"  IT IS LIFE!!!
Jesus Christ is alive inside of all of us who have been born again.
Let us be sure that it is Him that others see in us as we live this life that He gives.
You are being watched.  I am being watched.  WE are being watched by desperate people!
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Empowerment

Oh, the hope to which we cling, during the holidays...and always!

Encouraged and inspired,
empowered to go on
just by looking out the window
on this winter dawn...
the Maker of the season and
the sights that fill my view,
He comes to me and causes hope
and prospect to renew!
For He is God Creator and
a new song does He bring!
He places verses in the heart
and causes me to sing.
No matter what the day looks like
or how life may appear,
He helps me realize the good
which none can interfere!

The day may witness trouble and
the weather may be cross,
but clinging to the Maker ensures
all will be not loss!
Catastrophe at hand may be
but God is far more great!
I follow hard His hand and know
that, soon, we'll celebrate!

Is your day looking that way?
Did it start out good and then go south?
If you belong to Him, remember that He has each of your steps ordered...regardless!!
Pause at the start and recognize His signature in as many places as you can.  You can even see Jesus' Presence on display as you go about this time of year.  Draw from that Presence as you go about the day.
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Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Winter Soon

In the stillness...in the silence...

Walking slowly in the solitude
on Prairie Lane...
Scarce is my vocabulary
able to explain!
The aspen on mine either side-
so very tall to grow-
bid autumntide "Adieu" as they
emit a golden glow!
All the other members of
the sentinels around
are making preparations for
the time to soon be found.
All of them to shed their glory
save the evergreen,
the only ones to weather that
which may not be serene!

Oh, the beauty and the wonder
as it comes to pass.
All of it a blessed reminder
to a hurried mass
of blessings of simplicity,
of gifts without a cost,
of reaping treasures with the eyes
before the moment's lost.

The tail-end of autumn.
The vestiges of one glory making way for another.
See and know the proof of His Presence...even in the wonders of creation!
3316

Monday, December 2, 2013

Blessed Vision

In chapter 60 of Isaiah, we are minded of so many promises...all started with a Baby in a stable...

Arise, shine, a Light is come...
So humble, in a manger, born...
adoration now to know,
but, soon, such ridicule and scorn!
Royalty to seek Him out,
with glory and with gift to laud!
All the host of Heaven shout
and celebrate the Son of God!

So much more than a 'season' nigh!
More than 'festivities' at hand!
Much greater be His radiance
than that which so adorns the land!
And greater be the gift He brings
than anything that man can give:
the birth of Him--the Father's Gift--
once to die and e'er to live!

Finally, the Living Word,
come that man no more may die!
In solace and humility,
beneath the stars, for now, to lie;
"Enjoy Thy peace, so heavenly,
before the toil and trial 'yond,
and mind us of the glories, Lord,
awaiting when Thy cloak be donned!"

A blessed vision indeed.
See it with me as we begin to celebrate His birth.  See it clearly above the commercial that so seeks to steal Him away!
Christmas is Jesus Christ!
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Sunday, December 1, 2013

That Child!

"Jesus Christ!"
Celebrate Him with me!!

"What Child is this?"  I hear the song
cut through the silent night.
The heart of me to sing the same
and out of sheer delight!
"I KNOW THAT CHILD!" and I join them
to join that glory song!
Unto that Child, alive and well,
securely I belong!

"Jesus, Jesus--holy child,
but God--so good and great!!
Once again, the world stops
to pause and celebrate!
You are worthy, Jesus Lord,
of all our celebration!
No greater Gift is to exist
than our divine relation!"

What Child is this...
While the world continues to debate and even deny, I celebrate and enjoy that holy Child and the new life that He is!
Join me, won't you, in continuing to glorify Jesus Christ alone...even during the holidays?
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Saturday, November 30, 2013

Benefits

So blessed to see the land today.
So fortunate to have sight at all...even after the storm...

Autumn in the vision to retire...
soft and subtle, each nuance of sight
along the river, on this day just higher
due to the occurrences of night!
The storm of yesternight, it came and went;
so many, though, the signatures remaining;
morning to reveal its every vent:
far more than mere breezes and some raining!

Autumn in the vision He created,
Him Who knows all things that will occur.
All of living, to Him, celebrated
no matter what will be or things that were!
Regardless what the storm has left behind,
somewhere is His signature so clear.
Somewhere, somehow His grace is to find,
if we would stay alert residing here.

Yes, even though the storm came and went, I find myself counting my blessings, realizing there is far more to be grateful for than whatever may have been lost or damaged.
Can you do the same with the storms in your life?
Relationship with Jesus makes it possible.
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Thursday, November 28, 2013

Seeing is receiving!

Am I more thankful than you?
I don't know.
Am I more blessed than you?
That depends on what you consider "blessings"
There is so much to be thankful for...and not just on "Thanksgiving Day!"
Of course I have words of gratitude to share.  For that is what He calls me to do.  And those that He "calls" He will equip.
Look with me on this morning...

Captured in the earliest-
a hole in the sky.
Many rays are scrambling,
the sights to amplify!
A welcome sight, the frequent showers
that have been for days;
savor each of them as God
receives His worthy praise!
Praise Him for the water that
refreshes and restores!
Praise Him for the living light
that shines through Heaven's doors!
Praise Him for the lesson His great
wonder to reveal!
Praise to the One affecting all
we see and think and feel!

So beautiful, so glorious,
so resident in all!
So high and holy, yet so present
every time I call!
Creator God, so good, so great;
oh, live for Him always!
The same--a certain guarantee
that blessed will be the days!

Thankful?  Oh yes!  Very much so!  Thankful today that I can see the glory of His creation...a pleasure denied to many!
Be thankful with me and enjoy the true meaning of this day.
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Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Thankful even more!

What a glorious morning!
As your day begins, what is it that you are grateful for...and can others sense it?

So grateful that I may behold
the sun upon the rise
in the silence, in the stillness
of the autumn skies
beholding it with God Creator-
Him Who is so wise...
Thanksgiving--it is more than just a day!

And with a heart of gratitude
a song, my song I bring.
There is so very, very much
about which I can sing!
Creator God, His Majesty,
that melody causing;
but Thanksgiving--it is more than just a song!

And with that heart of gratitude
I set out in my day
that others, they may see the reasons
that I feel this way
and glorify the One Who gives--
the Truth, the Life, the Way!
Yes, Thanksgiving is a total way of life!

As you go about your day, live it in such a way that it will be a blessing to others and that they may know Who it is that makes you so thankful!
Jesus Christ.  He occupies the heart and causes us to exude His ways.
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Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Thankful without end!

"Thankful" once again and always,
grateful from so deep!
More than just a "holiday"
said gratitude to keep!
So very many articles,
but far, far more than "things!"
That melody of gratitude
continually so rings!

"Thanksgiving" on horizon,
the same already here.
And I discuss it with the One
that, always, I have near.
He is Jesus.  He's the One
that causes celebration:
I have what I have because
of our secure relation!

Thankful--once and constantly we're blessed!
"GOD IS GENEROUS!"  I can attest!!
Center of our thankful celebration,
and thankful are we for such great relation!

Join me in that celebration, won't you?
God is the generous Giver of all that my verses contain!  There is no limit to His supply.  He knows what we need and when.  It is a whole 'nuther life to trust Him completely!
GO FOR IT!
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Monday, November 25, 2013

Thankful Today!

So much to be thankful for!  Where do I start...

Watching as the sprinkles turn to ice--
that element of beauty...not so nice!
Praying that the damage would be NONE!
The spectacle I witness with The Son.

Jesus, right here with me through it all.
For He was here, before my early call.
And through the window we see fortunes turn
as falling is that 'water' most would spurn.

"Lord, let there be no damage from it all.
Please let there be no one to slip and fall.
Please safely, Lord, help all get home tonight
and, somehow, from the storm, provide delight."

Thanksgiving, but a few more days away.
But so much to be thankful for today!
Thankful most we have a God Who cares,
and listens to and answers all our prayers!

Don't forget to be thankful today.  Every one of us has something, (or MANY things!) to be thankful for.  If you can't think of any, thank God with me that He continues to give me these words to share with the world.  For I could not do it without Him, His inspiration and direction.
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Sunday, November 24, 2013

This faulty shell...

I cannot move...it hurts so much...again.

The pain--it is intense, I cannot yield.
For there is much reward that's yet concealed.
I will endure the temporary things
obtaining the eternal that it brings!
For Him Whom I serve with abounding joy,
all of these woes and trials will destroy
when He returns to claim His very known--
for there, will our reward, in full, be known!!

I know I am not alone as I pen these words.  For they are a collaboration of statements that I not only hear throughout the week, but a few of them are my own--for it DOES hurt!
But we truly know One who is greater than our pain, greater than our deepest utterances...and His promises are Yea and Amen!
Trust Him with us, won't you?  For He IS able to completely heal...and He WILL--whether in this life or the next!
Keep pressing on.  For GREAT is your reward!
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Friday, November 22, 2013

My prayer

Above the carpet that November's made...
above the light, so early, then to fade...
even over temporary shroud,
there is Something silent, oh so loud!
Creator God--so present on the rise
once more busy with His each surprise!
And what shall be the order of the day?
Anything and all that He would say!

Another gift, created with such care,
wrapped as "The Present" does He come to share.
And them that see the same and will believe,
a most wonderful of day will they receive!
The present--oh so beautiful at first-
life, so very solemn, unrehearsed...
Know Him in the earliest anew,
He longs to share such wonderment with you!

"Good morning, Father God.
In Jesus' Name I come to You, with a heart filled with thanks for Who You are, and for the glory of Your creation before my eyes!
Thank You for what I see, and for the constant realization of Who You are...where You are...and for what You are in all of my world.
Lord, I ask that You bless all them that are reading these words with the same realization the same Presence that I am enjoying right now. 
I know that You are with me, please help them to know that You are with them, too.
I know that You have my steps ordered for today.  Please help them to know that assurance for their lives as they turn to You.
Thank You for hearing my prayers.
Thank You for answering my prayers.
For I ask this in the Name of Your Son Jesus,
Amen."
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Thursday, November 21, 2013

Oh, what a beautiful morning?

It all depends on your outlook...

Once again, morning-
opportunity!
24 more chances
His wonderments to see!
These hours are the very first
of many winter storm,
the gray...the black...the evergreen...
the absence of the warm.
But then the Presence of the Lord,
regardless of the day!
The glory of the elements
so come to life His way!
God--Creator God--so very
subtle, very bold,
even in the 'ugliest,'
even in the cold!

God, Creator God,
the Bringer of the day.
We must accept the day and live it,
knowing it's His way
and seek to know the blessing that
awaits us ALL the time!
So glorious the morning-
what memories to climb!

What memories...each day has them.
What will you choose to recall about yours?
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Sunday, November 17, 2013

What's that sound...

Voices, voices without number,
hear them as they cry...
Tears, the tears yet being shed,
oh, will they ever dry?
"If they would but just turn to God,
all persecution cease!"
The same, His very servants be,
and furthering increase.
The persecuted are they, them
that gather in the rain...
that pray as shots ring out next door...
that meet in spite of pain...
the faithful--them that congregate
and sing without a sound
in spite of sight that is no more,
and chords appearing bound!

The Church...His Church it is!
So glorious, so very real!
It isn't how I think it is-
so very raw, the feel!
"O show me, teach me, move me, Lord,
to love them as I should,
and pray for them without restraint,
all for the common good."

It does them good to keep them close at heart.
It does ME good to keep them close at heart!
It does the heart of God good to see us care for one another. 
What does that care entail?  Far more than we as Americans care to contemplate.
Can you hear the voices?  But I KNOW the answer to that!!
How will you respond to the voices?
How will WE respond to the voices?
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Saturday, November 16, 2013

That sensitive location...

Alone again...
Intimate again with One...

"O God, have mercy on me please!
I am a wicked man!
O make Your ways to be in me-
all wickedness to ban!
I am not my own as, Your
dependence, I to learn;
there is so much inside of me
that constantly must turn!

Nothing I to boast in as
I look into Your face...
everything in You as You
abolish my disgrace!
O God, so very good to me
when man would yet condemn...
the virtues of unfailing love-
I boast in each of them!

Forgiven, Lord, and justified
in You, in You alone.
Oh God, I give myself away-
for I am not my own!
But God, Almighty God, You take me,
owning all of me;
and there, in such relationship,
Your mercies I to see!
AMEN!"

'There, in such relationship...'
Have you been there?  Do you even want to be that close to God Himself?!  It is a scary location...but He will not harm you.
Get that close!
It's wonderful!
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Friday, November 15, 2013

Yesterday...

If you recall, there were no 'Words' from me yesterday.  Usually, this is due to health reasons.  Not yesterday.
Along with a few 'duties' of a normal day, I had the PRIVILEGE of feting my wife with due honor for 32 years of marriage!
Normally, on such occasion, one says "Where has the time gone?"  I know where it went!  It went into LIVING a wonderful life with the woman I married!  I AM SO BLESSED!
No, I did not take the time to send out 'Words' yesterday because, with what my memory is doing, I want to spend all the time I can with her!
Thank you, honey, for 32 wonderful years!

Jim

Tuesday, November 12, 2013

"YOU ARE ALL!!"

Can you say that to the God that you serve?
God is Someone more than just to ask to bless your food!
God is more than Someone to turn to in disaster!
God is everywhere, always, everything...and He has whatever you need whenever.

Oh God, my Father God, for You
are all we ever need!
In You, in Your salvation
we are living, we are freed!
So safe inside Your boundaries
You keep us, Lord, secure;
when we submit to You, oh Lord,
for surely we endure!
Endurance for the task ahead
that, constantly, we meet...
endurance for the vast barrage
that comes as we compete...
endurance that will know fruition
as we rise with You!
Jesus Christ, our Victory-
IT'S TRUE!  IT'S VERY TRUE!

Oh God, my Father God, You are,
You are mine all-in-all!
I do not have to wonder--I'm
secure inside Your call!
Keep me, keep me as I serve
and tell, Lord, every one
the joy of Your salvation and'
the wonders You have done!

LET GOD BE GOD!
Let Him be what He needs to be in ALL of your life!
That's how much He loves you!  (Even you!)
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Sunday, November 10, 2013

Veteran's Day, 2013

Once again, opportunity
to recognize the champions that be.
I can thank all veterans that be
'cause I can write in peace and liberty!
Heroes are they, each and every one.
When the call came in, they got it done!
No matter the assignment, off they went!
And God was with them, e'er where they were sent!

Each deployment, varying so great...
unto the task, your all did you relate!
And we remaining glorify you now
for doing all you could unto the vow!
Your actions for to benefit the most...
so many the results for which you boast!
Yet once again, our gratitude, we voice;
because of you does liberty rejoice!

Thank you, veterans! 
I appreciate all that you have done.
WE appreciate all that you have done.
You are in our prayers today and always as we ask God to reward you for all that you have done, all that you have been through, and, for some, all that you continue to go through.
God heal you.  God protect you.  God reward you.
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Another Attempt

Look!  Out the window!
Quick, grab a pen...

A constant shower is the rain
of autumn in my sight!
The early rays illuminate
each fallen with delight!
This time, it's mid-November, and
the season's running late!
The scope of color, though, to make it
all the more so great!

"Thank You, Lord, for greeting me
so early on this day
with colors of the spectrum
You alone display!
Green to red to gold to brown
to green to red to gold...
endless be Your glory in
the season to behold!"

In the splendor of the morning
everything is still
save the ever-constancy
of leaves to waft at will.
Again, the highest of adjectives
to tease the willing pen
in attempt to capture sight
and transfer it to men!

Attempting again to record autumn.
Realizing, again, that I am barely equipped...
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Saturday, November 9, 2013

Lonely...

Walking along...kicking at the rocks...

All alone, wandering
the wilderness once more...
being in that  place that I
so often would abhor...
"I cannot see the point in I this!"
"What is this place about?!"
Though I am bidden "Peace, be still,"
I want to scream and shout!

Alone again?  "Never," 
His assurance to remind...
This He tells me as His eyes,
once more, affix to mine...
This He tells me as He holds me
in His firm embrace...
this He tells me as I'm bathed
in sure, eternal grace!

In the Lord, never is there
truth unto "alone,"
it only is a temporary
'feeling' that be known.
And He is even going through
the valley at your side!
Know that He is omnipresent
and, in Him, abide!

Jesus is so good.
Jesus is so present!
No matter how alone you 'feel,' you ain't!!  Jesus is right there, walking beside you, listening...
Tell Him how you feel.  He can handle ANYTHING you say to Him...and He can help!
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Friday, November 8, 2013

GLORIOUS!!

The season shouts at the writer again...

Beyond the autumn colors,
attractive and alive...
beyond the changing season,
for certain to arrive...
beyond the sounds and scents that are
so welcome at this time,
Father God is here and He's
inviting us to climb!
No matter where we are, He has
a level just above.
He will not leave us where we are
because of His great love!
He made the very glory we
enjoy upon the land,
but He has made another place,
more altogether grand!
And there, the glory of it all,
it has another glow!
And it is for the fortunate
in Him to undergo!
Know the autumn season and
the shades so very bright
by walking through it with The One
Who makes it with delight!

The one thing missing from this afternoon's walk: subtlety!
So very bold and beautiful is this November day that I cannot help but walk through it holding His hand!
Join me, won't you?
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Monday, November 4, 2013

Weekly Wonder

Monday morning.
Look out the window!

"How many are the colors?" 
Once again the morning query.
Of all that He's designed, but say,
can anyone be wary?
The same not only mesmerizing
that one with a pen,
but even to seduce him from
his duties once again?

Lost in love for His creation
easy to become!
Drawn to tasks impossible
like recognizing sum!
"The glory of the autumn to
accompany, not lead!"
I must I must repeat this stern reminder
His lone will to heed!

How easy it is to get absorbed in the glory of His creation.
If you are like me, it is TOO easy to let the duties slide by just by enjoying His touch!
Balance.  There must be balance...even in that which is 'good.'
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Wednesday, October 30, 2013

Unwelcome guest

Depression came to visit me,
prepared to stay awhile.
When it moved in, some things moved out
beginning with my smile.
My joy and my serenity
started then to pack;
chose I then I wanted those
departing to come back!
I checked into his background,
such thievery and deceit!
It prospers only if its let
to lie and steal and cheat!
And that which he promoted,
on the opposite I stood.
Now, pressing on that Upward Way,
all I can see is 'GOOD!'

Don't let depression move in with you.  Sure, we all may 'experience' it at some time or other, but we must not dwell with it.  Get prayer if it does!
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The Bells of Heaven

Listen...again.  This time with the heart...

Oh, the bells of Heaven! 
Ever-brightly do they toll!
Striking with resounding joy
the chords within my soul!
A comfort in my trial,
encouragement the same,
but this day be the notes of joy
to fan that living flame!

The very bells of Heaven, oh,
with gladness I attend!
For there, enthroned in glory,
the Supernal I call 'Friend!'
He is the blest Composer of
that melody I know,
the one that so accompanies
wherever I should go!

Hear the bells of Heaven, I say,
listen and perceive!
The Striker of the Bell would so
command you to believe!
For soon will come the day when those
of earth shall no more hear.
Oh take that step that's sure to keep
the bells of Heaven near!

Know Jesus as your personal Savior.
Ask Him to be Your Lord and live in your heart.
That's the only way to guarantee Heaven as your future residence, and to enjoy the comforts of His Presence until that day occurs!
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"Today"


"Thank You, Father, for this most wonderful time You've provided called 'today.'  It is like nothing I have ever experienced before!  So fresh!  So new!  So memorable!
It is not like yesterday, for yesterday is gone!  And who am I to assume that it will be like 'tomorrow?'  First, no one knows the 'morrow' save Him Who creates it.  Second, I have no guarantee whatsoever that I will even be allowed to experience 'tomorrow!'
All I have is 'today.'  And all that I can do with 'today' is enjoy it.
Shall I complain about It?
Shall I murmur about what is not to be?
Shall I allow that over which I have no control control those things which I can?  Certainly not!
As with so many of the wonders of You, I will get out of it what I put into it.  If I put into it praise, thanksgiving, joy and optimism, the same shall I reap.  If I look upon it with dread and fear, so the same shall be.
Oh but God, I accept the gift of You called "Today" with full knowledge that all that it contains is ordained of You, and that there is nothing herein contained that You and I, together, cannot handle!
I love You, and I will use this blessed gift for Your glory!
Amen."

A time to grieve?

Standing in the back of the room.  Observing...

Having vied 'face-to-face' for
many years, the dust prevails;
in a hall crowded only with
emptiness another wails.
For though timeless prophecy so proves
"our loss is Heaven's gain,"
when that big of a part of one
is lost there must be pain.

Having vied face-to-face for
many years, the soul prevails
and, forthwith, wings its way unto
that place where no one wails!
Since Christ indwelt so deep within
is life, and death is gain!
Should there not be a victory
celebration instead of pain?

A hypocritical writer,
once again to hone his craft?
At just how many dirges has he
dried the visual fount and laughed?
A life awaits us truly there,
to tongue and table yet unknown,
but 'grief' remains a natural process
each one has a right to own.

None of us can truly know what our brother is going through unless or until we go through it ourselves.  These words were written as I watched others try to console this one that had just lost the one that had been beside them for 55 years.
God is able, yes.  But we are not Him, so let us speak our hearts carefully.
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Tuesday, October 29, 2013

That was fun!

Blessings on you, my faithful readers.
We just returned from a week with my son and his wife, my grandson and our BRAND NEW GRANDDAUGHTER!  Welcome to the world, Annabelle!  It is so good to meet you!
So many memories...so many photographs...so many words churning as I recall the time we spent together!
Thank you for your hospitality, my son and daughter.
Thank you for taking so much time out of your busy schedule to spend with us, my son.  I shall remember it always.  (What I can!)
And thank you, readers, for your love and support of this ministry.

In HIS Service,
Jim

Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Welcome Call

(This was written many years ago, so don't panic!  I share these words because, too often, such tribute goes unsaid, and my mom is certainly worth it!)

Lying in the hospital...all alone...(so it seems.)

Down upon my back again,
the telephone, it rings.
Immediately knowing who,
my spirit brightly sings!
Yea, the heart and soul of me
are surely to rejoice
in the sweet assurance of
my mother's gentle voice!

I have the omnipresence of
the Father up above...
I have the grace of Jesus, the
epitome of love!
I have the Holy Spirit to
empower from on high,
but, too, I treasure anything
from her who bore me nigh!

No one to replace the one
with that maternal touch.
A very blessed gift from Him
Who loves me oh, so much!
Nothing of this earth to match
the comfort of her speech;
so very able is my mom,
inside my self, to reach!

Yes, so very blessed I am!  Blessed to not just have my mother, but to have a wonderful relationship with her.  Though many miles separate us, nothing will ever come between!
I certainly pray that each of you have such with your mother!
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