Our best defense against the devil and his tricks
Is to quickly procure and utilize a spiritual fix
To don an aura of humility relying on God's grace
And ardent love for Him will put the devil in his place
The war is raging inside our souls
Love and passion stir the coals
We fight against enemies unseen, but quite real
Eternally fighting for another soul to steal
Defend us in our weakness, rid us of all vanity
Lift us up as we struggle in our humanity
The flesh is weak, and the mind may doubt
But the spirit is willing, and the heart is stout
Come to our aid against the sea of foes
And hold us firm while the mighty wind blows
Rely on God and others to find the strength within
To hold fast against temptation and fall not into sin
Sometimes we may falter and sometimes we will fail
But fear not: in the end, Good will always prevail
Sometimes we must fail, and our failings teach
Us to lean on Him and to learn how to reach up
We have been blessed with great love and passion
Help us channel this energy in a healthy fashion
If you feel pinned and you're up against the wall
Just summon up a hearty spiritual battle call
And cry out: "Who can be compared to our God?
For He is my vision to see through the glamour of sin's facade"

Let's get back to basics
To find our origin our source
We have strayed so far away
The ship is now off course
Go back to the time that grace found you
Remember the joy your soul knew
There, in that moment, you ended
And God began
You are a new creation; so beautiful
You have a new life; so immutable
Where was it that we lost our way
When did we forget to play and pray
The devil may be in the details
But God has the whole picture
Satan tries and, ultimately, fails
Against the Living Loving Word of Scripture
Let's go back to where we were
Before the demands of life began
To have faith so great and pure
To rest knowing we are in His hand
Let's go back and try to relearn
The knowledge that love isn't something to be earned
It is a gift, a sacrifice; it is open and free
And it does something amazing for you and for me
Let's go back to when life was still simple
Where innocence could still be found
Where life's simple pleasures were routine
Where hope was full, and joy would last
Let's bring back the child-like faith
And let's get back to the basics

If you ever feel that you are all alone
Your eyes cloudy and your heart a stone
If you are drowning in sorrow, sinking in despair
If people mistreat you and life has been unfair
If your sky is full of storm-clouds and rain
And all you have known for so long is pain
If you experienced loss and your heart is achin'
And you feel like you have been forsaken
You can't understand why the sun isn't breakin'
If this is your story, if this sounds like you
I want you to know everything sad is coming untrue
Perhaps there is a deeper purpose
Hidden just beneath the surface
Maybe there is a good reason
Why you're going through this season
Maybe they prepare you for something ahead
And rather than falling you can rise instead
Your story is one that must be told
To bring someone in from out of the cold
Like a ray of hope in a sea of regret
An encounter they won't soon forget
Don't give up for this is not the end
I'd like you to meet my closest friend
His love is perfect, his goodness forever
Smart and resourceful and incredibly clever
He is my Father, my brother and my guide
And no matter where I go, he is at my side
I never have to worry, I never have to fear
For, when I call him, he will always hear
His name is Jesus and he has never let me down
Most of all, he makes me smile, so now I can't frown
Someone out there needs to hear this right now
Someone needs to know it'll be alright somehow
Someone desperately needs to hear your story
To live life again in all its wonder and glory
Someone needs to see the cuts the marks the scars
To know that true beauty cannot be marred
They need to listen to the stories that they tell
Of battle fought and battles won, the times we fell
Of triumphs and victories and all that make us up
The things that satisfy and fill our plate and cup
A journey of forgiveness and grace and healing
And through it all you still are feeling
Don't give up and hold on tight
Every little thing gonna work out alright
Someone out there need to know
And cling to Jesus, 'cuz Jesus won't let go

Have mercy on our souls Oh God
Your faithfulness and love go on forever
Turn our hearts back home to you Oh Lord
Hear us as we fervently pray
For healing and peace upon this scarred earth
For righteousness and justice to flourish
For wisdom and understanding above all
Restore our hearts and heal our lands
For, great is the love that flowed from your hands
You have blessed me with a gift: help me use it well
I am moved and touched, and my soul will dwell
In the house of the Lord all the days of my life
Have mercy on us and on the whole world
Amen

Lord, how I wish I was comfortable enough and at ease enough to fall asleep wrapped in your loving arms. Help me offer up this sleeplessness and place it at your feet. The only light I have are some candles' soft and tender glow. They dance and sway when the spirit blows. Sing a sweet lullaby over me that I may dream such happy dreams. Grant, Oh Lord, that I may live until the morning light. Keep me safe through many a perilous plight. By your right hand you deliver me from my foes and out of danger. You protect me, Oh God, from the snare of the stranger. You lead me by still waters where the grass is lush and green, I am never left wanting and times are never lean. Help me find rest in the shadow of your wings. Help me find the joy that only knowing you brings. By your grace, let me experience this gift of profoundest peace and, in your mercy, grant me sleep's sweetest release!
Amen

What does it take to truly receive
To feel in your soul what you say you believe
To open yourself to a love so pure
To the power of true love's cure
You say: "Take this, all of you, and eat"
Enter in this house Lord, make me complete
I can be so full of myself sometime
Lord, take hold of this heart of mine
In order to give, I have to receive
I find and peace and my fears are relieved
To receive I have to be vulnerable, exposed
I have to be open wide rather than closed
Open to hurt and scars and pain
But, by your grace, my faith remains
Help me follow you and do your will
Help me receive love so I can give love
Help me know love so I can show love
Help me die for love so I can live love
Help me live in a way that pleases you
To live the Gospel of life and truth
Help me, Lord, to be humble and broken
To be receptive to love so softly spoken
By your grace Lord, I would ask you to allow
Your humble servant here and now
To be an instrument for love and in word
A channel of peace for all that have heard
Take Lord and Receive
All that is within me
Use it all as you see fit
Take it all, the smallest bit
All I ask is your love and grace
A chance to glimpse your face
I need nothing, no other stuff
Only this and it will be enough

Today I have found a new reality
A truth that shatters the common fallacy
It lies hidden just below the surface
It gives my life new meaning and purpose
There is a God: he's alive and moving
The mystery of life itself is proving
He is risen alleluia, and he is lifted high
Let the trumpets blare as his glories fill the sky
I am free to dance and free to sing
Praise and honor to the God and King
I am a new creation; I'll never be the same
For you called me and gave me a new name
I cannot live now the way I once did
But I'll keep the joy and wonder of a kid
I have a spirit of courage both gentle and bold
This Gospel of Life is ever new never old
It can't be sold, it can't be bought
A promise honored that wasn't forgot
It is the very word of God coming alive
It is to live this new reality that I will strive

I'm coming home to a place that I once knew
I'm coming back to something that was true
I stopped running away when I got so tired
I turned around: it was all that love required
You were waiting for me with arms wide open
You paid it no heed how I had been broken
I never knew you could love me just as I am
I never realized how much I was like a lamb
I never thought you ever really cared
I never felt you near when I was scared
I ran away and slammed the door
I shut you out and wanted nothing more
I felt abandoned, betrayed, cold and alone
But the last thing I wanted was to come back home
You still want me: the world's biggest fool
You picked me, a tiny fish in a great big pool
You chose me from the very beginning
You look at me and can't stop grinning
I find myself standing at a crossroads
Left or right follow where the wind blows
Looking down dusty road and faded track
One step, two step: I'm on my way back
I'm headed back home again this day
How will it be and what will the people say
Lord, what I need is a brand-new start
For family is home and home is in the heart

Among you, let there be no division
Be of one heart and be of one mind
Seek peace; let love guide your decision
Be strong and firm, but do not be unkind
For we are His children, one and all
There is no slave or free, no color of skin
No better or worse, none are free from sin
Created in God's great expression of love
Come to the river, be washed in the flood
Of healing and peace. Go, be reconciled
Come back to the state of truth and grace
Let your eyes be opened to see God's face
God is greater than the sum of our difference
In Him is found our freedom and deliverance
God smiles when we work together
With people of good will
To create a positive culture
Our prayers and praises will fill
The heavens and earth, the sky and sea
Set the prisoner and the captive free
You are the way maker you are my sustainer
You are my provider in you I am redeemed
You are more than all I have ever dreamed
You are my anchor when the storms rage
You are the author of my every page
There is love enough in God's great heart
There is room enough for all to have a part
Help us grow in love and understanding
And always: keep us in the shelter of your wing

Amen

Oh Lord my God! Thank you for this day, thank you for all your blessings and graces that are new for me each and every morning! Help me find peace and rest of mind, body and spirit. Refresh my dry and weary soul. You are my stronghold and my refuge, my strength and blessed assurance during hard times. Enfold me in your arms of love. Bless my family and friends Lord. Be my center. Be the center. Send your Holy Spirit to descend and rest within me. Move me and work in and through me for your greater glory. Let me be your hands and feet reaching out into the world. Never let me go Lord and in your mercy, help me always know you are near especially when I cannot see or feel your presence in my life. Help me to empty myself so that you can come and fill me. May I be less so that you can be more. I ask you to give me what I need today: to give me this daily bread of patience, peace, love, forgiveness, healing. You know my needs Lord: I trust that you will provide. I know you hear my prayers. Thank you, Lord, and always may your will be done. May your will be done in me. Amen.

I am empty bless and break me
Take me where I am needed most
You fulfill me and you will be
Holy Father, Son and Holy Ghost
You poured your life out over me
I pour myself out at your feet
Fling the doors now open wide
Let the light of love inside
Open the windows in this place
Fill the air with truth and grace
As the spirit feely dances
Know the joy of second chances
Feel the movement all around
Shoes are off on Holy Ground
I am empty my soul is open
And the word of God is spoken
Fill me a spirit of beautiful ardor
And courage if I die a martyr
I am burning for you, I am yearning
I am pining for your peaceful presence
Come, Lord, and fill me with your essence
I give it all to use me as you see fit
Let nothing be wasted, not even a little bit
Spirit, you found me. Now surround me
Help me follow wherever you go
The wind that blows eternal
Free as clouds and rivers flow
I am empty now no longer
And my life is now complete
For the Lord that lives within me
Conquered death: he can't be beat

Lord, make me to be a living channel
An instrument of your comfort and peace
You speak to me and my soul comes alive
You are the living word, your words are life-giving
Blood and water poured from your sacred heart
Bathing the world in your mercy and grace
In the waters of baptism by the blood of the lamb
It is because of this that, today, I am who I am
Your river runs through me in deep currents of grace
When you said "Peace be with you" was it the look on my face?
I was unbelieving for the pain was too much to bear
It wasn't that I didn't want to believe or that I didn't care
My Lord and my God! Have mercy on me: a sinner
I am not worthy to be in your presence my God and King
I feel the movements of the spirit
In the deepest currents of my being
Open my eyes to see and my heart to believe
You opened yourself and were broken for me
Break open my heart and help me to receive
This flood of mercy and grace freely shed
To give me new life when I had been dead
In my weakness, in my doubt and my shame
You take my hand and gently call my name
"Peace be with you. It is I. I am real.
Do not me unbelieving, but come and feel
The hands that were pierced for love of you
Let my mercy and grace, Child, cover you".
Lead me Lord from fear into peace, despair into hope
From tears into laughter, from mourning into dancing,
From doubt to belief, from death into life
Guide me Lord from out of darkness into Your light
Jesus, I believe, help me trust in You!

Abba, bless me, so in all that I do
In all things, I may give glory to you
Grant, I pray, the peace and the grace
Content to be still and gaze at your face
I love to sit by your side and listen to your voice
But so often I'm restless: distracted by noise
Rushing around in perpetual motion
When I need to be in perpetual devotion
God be my joy, come and be my light
Come to my aid; rescue me in my plight
By rising to life, the flesh, you glorified
In the shadow of your cross I will hide
In death, you overcame both sin and grave
Your love for me was strong enough to save
Be my one love, my God, my King, my Prince of Peace
Satisfy this holy hunger and ever increase
You take us back even when, your love, we spurn
You come running out to meet us on our return
You are my inheritance and my worth Oh Lord
You reconcile us to yourself with one accord

Sometimes we need a place to be alone with God
When you feel walked over like a sad piece of sod
We need to find a secret place, the soul's retreat
Where the love between heaven and earth shall meet
I can disappear inside the shadow of his wings
And know the peace that true closeness brings
I can fly away and leave this world and its cares behind
It is in these times that the Lord will gently remind
Us He is our strength and our strong tower
And in his radiant glory, the darkness will cower
I will wash in the stream of eternal life
By grace, I will be made like new
I will bask in healing warmth of the light
Of love that can only come from You
I will join the angels in their unending son
And dance with every ounce of my being
I will sit at your feet the whole day long
I can scarce take in the splendor I'm seeing
I will spend an hour in your presence
But a second is an hour, an hour is a day
My soul finds a pure profound pleasance
And, once again, I know that I will be okay

Sometimes we are walking down the road
Chatting and discussing the news of late
Minding ourselves when we meet a fellow
Who is traveling in the same direction
Clearly a visitor, he's so awfully out of date
But we walk and talk and bring Him up to speed
He talks to us in words both sacred and profane
Words that harken to our spirits' unity
And speak to our hearts individually
Our hearts burn deep within us
Like an age old song or ancient melody
Something foreign, but pleasantly familiar
What it is, I can't quite recall
Finally, we arrive at our destination
The sun is low and the day is growing old
Our companion makes to keep travelling
"Where are you going? It's late.
Please stay and join us at table".
During the meal He takes the bread
Blesses it and says a prayer
Our eyes are opened, but He isn't there
"That man had to have been our Jesus!
As He spoke, were not our hearts burning?
And when He sat at table, were not our souls yearning?
We clung to His words like dying men
And the awakening when He said Amen!"
But we had been blind to his presence before us
He was there while we were thinking "poor us"
Looking right at Him, still we could not see
Our friend who died upon the hill of Calvary
Open the eyes of our hearts and may we be of one accord
To recognize that, on the road, we were walking with the Lord

When the church all says amen
And when the people pray, then
The Lord God, from heaven, will hear
He will bring comfort and dry every tear
Our hearts and our lands begin to heal
And we shall see God's face revealed
When we stand with our brothers and sisters in faith
Together, we can make this a better, happier place
We cannot be timid; we can't afford to stay silent
While wars rage on and life becomes more violent
All it takes for evil to win is for good not to take action
How about we deprive Satan of that satisfaction
Values are shifting and new opinions are learned
Tradition being tossed out, old truths are being spurned
No more do we have the blind leading the blind
When we act as one body, one spirit, on mind
With one voice we will proudly profess
The faith that we believe; the faith that we confess
Prayer and action, faith and works, putting love into practice
Speaking out in the desert like John the Baptist
The world may call us things like Jesus Freak
We may as well be speaking in Greek
So, maybe they won't listen to what we have to say
But they watch our actions and the message we convey
Call upon the Lord, and glory in your suffering
For, in Him, our hope eternally springs
Lord, bring the church through this cleansing fire
That we, your bride, would fulfill your heart's desire
Deliver us Oh Lord, from the pride by which we fall
Deliver us Oh Lord, when we are up against the wall
Deliver us Oh Lord, from the sin with which we shackle
Our feet and hands. Our obstacles, Lord, help us tackle
Free us so we may dance with you in sweet surrender
Open our eyes to see through the disguise of the wily pretender
Let the light of your love shine in our lives
For, not all is lost while love and hope alone survives

How deep is your love (for me)?
That stretches from sea to shining sea
How much higher than the mountains
Streams of life flowing down from endless fountains
How deep is your love for me?
It's a little overwhelming this Endless Love
To feel the weight of your glory falling from above
I am swept forward in this flood of grace amazing
Even now, ever new trails, my heart is blazing
One thing leads to another
And pretty soon I will discover
Rarely, are things as simple as it seems
For now, I'm in a place far beyond my wildest dreams
"How much do you trust me?"
"How deep is your love for me?"
Says the Lord, God of Hosts
It is in Christ's abundant mercy that my spirit boasts
We are playing now for high stakes
It's not a gamble when it's for souls' sake
Never was a time when the stakes have been higher
It is of critical importance, the situation is dire
Sometimes I marvel at your perfect timing
But I still need, at times, your gentle reminding
That Your generosity and love will not be outdone
And I would ask, Lord, let's keep having fun
May I disappear in you as you increase
And may the joy and wonder never cease

Let love like sweet perfume
Permeate this sacred room
No longer is Jesus in the tomb
The stone was rolled away
To reveal a brilliant light
All around stood amazed
At this miraculous sight
The sweet perfume of lilies
Was caught up on the breeze
And lifted up to Heaven on high
Like the prayers down on our knees
He is risen, he lives once more
Oh, come let us worship and adore
Like sweet perfume, we are drawn
To follow and to seek the source
We search for an invisible force
May our lives turn out to be
Like sweet perfume unto thee
Attractive to others, a blessing too
But, in all things, may it point to you
Let your love, like sweet perfume,
Surround me and always enfold
As I strive to listen and do what I'm told
A love worth more than all the gold
Let your love warm my heart and soul
Kindle the flame of love in these coals
Let me burn for you with holy desire
Let it reach ever farther and higher
To you, our prayers are oh so sweet
Without your love we are incomplete
Fill our lungs with the sweet peace of God
That we may walk where even angels haven't trod

Remember Death... Remember to Live

Today is a day of reflection and remembrance of death, of the frailty and fleeting nature of earthly life. Jesus is dead. Some feel the pain and loss, some carry on with life, but everyone is changed. Jesus was only thirty-three when he died and had only been in his public ministry for three years. I don't know how it was back then, but by today's standards, that's awfully young. I've known several people who were quite young who have passed away recently, and it makes me stop and wonder "What am I doing with my life?" Am I focusing on what really matters or am I not utilizing well what precious little time I have? It is important to remember that we will die, and things of this world are fleeting that it may temper our lives, but we should also focus on making the most of life. Live, love, hurt, laugh, cry: all of these things help us know we are truly alive. It is not just physical death that is important to remember either. Sin causes spiritual death, and true love is sacrificial: dying to oneself for the joy and well-being of another. Jesus died to give us life. His life was His love and He gave it away. Jesus gave us everything. We can and ought to give something back to him because "we would have nothing, nothing, nothing if we didn't have Him". Jesus died to nail our sins upon the cross and as we die with Christ, so too will we rise with Him. May God help us to die to ourselves and live for others. When we live for others, we also live for God: "Whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me". I pray that at the end of your life, that you don't have any regrets for wanting to do something and not doing it. Don't forget to tell your parents, your spouse, your family and friends that you love them and cherish them. Call that person, that friend that you haven't talked to in years. Be generous and compassionate to the person on the street. Don't wait, because tomorrow could be too late. We are not promised tomorrow, we are only promised right now. We are only promised today. So, today and everyday we pray: Memento Mori... Memento Vivere.

Remember Death, but most importantly... Remember to Live!

Amen

Why must they take my Lord from me?
Why, oh why, can they not see
What it is they have really done?
They have killed God's only son.
I know he came to suffer and die
But I hold him in my arms, and I cry:
"Abba, my father, why must this be true
For Jesus, he was my son too.
Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.
Father, my father, if only they knew"
Let these tears that fall be as sweet perfume
As I lay our son in a borrowed tomb
Father, my father, cleanse them from their sin
Father, I beg you, don't let Satan win.
In my heart I knew this day would come,
But part of me, to this fact, was numb.
I am pierced by sorrow so deep and wide
Your cousin and I alone stand at your side.
My heart is broken on the altar of love
As my tears mix with the rain from above.
In an instant, I would trade my life for his.
I would die so that he might live.
But may it be done according to Your Will
You were my God, and you are still
My faith remains steadfast even in this darkest night
I believe that we will once again see your Holy Light

Amen

Lord God, you are the author of life and creator of all good things. Everything is yours and yours alone. But I don't always (or often) act like it. I try to rely on myself to find success, to find my worth, to overcome challenges, to have control over my life as if I don't or can't trust you to provide what I need. I'm sorry. I have a hard time letting go. Letting go of hurt, pain, sadness, anger, jealousy, and I miss the times that were beautiful and filled with joy and love, laughter and peace. I'm sorry. Help me, Lord, to surrender my control to you. Help me learn to let go and give you all of me, keeping nothing back from you. Take the good and the bad Lord, and through your great grace, blanket me in your love and bless my heart and soul with a profound peace that comes only from you. I don't pray as often as I should and, many times, I talk too much and listen too little. Help me be patient Lord and give you a little time as you have given me this time that I have.

When I pray Lord, take me away to the secret place. Take me to where you are, take me into your most sacred heart. When life is just too much to bear, show me just how much you care. When life is simply too demanding, bless me with peace that surpasses all understanding. When the winds are fair and the seas are still, my soul as well is mirror tranquil. When the storm is swirling mad with rage, you will hold me and my fears you will assuage.

Thank you for this Peace.

Amen

Jesus Lord, you sing your song over me
In your holy loving arms, you enfold me
In your presence, you surround me
And when I was lost, you found me
You breathed into me your very spirit
Call my name and I come to life when I hear it
Jesus, I come alive when I see you
I come alive when I feel you are near
I come alive when I am doing your will
I come alive today and I cannot be still
I was dead in my sin and your grace brought me back
You saved me when I was living under a heart attack
Now, my heart beats for you with love alone
And the light within is finally made known
When I think of you, when I talk about you
My face lights up like a Christmas Tree
I become electrified; I begin to come alive
Jesus, bring me back to life out of the grave I'm in
I come back to you; please cleanse me from my sin
I come to life when I worship and adore
It's a feeling that's too hard to ignore
For, if I leave it, it boils and bubbles
And I soon find myself with many troubles
But if I obey and try to stay the course
I feel I am protected by a supernatural force
I come alive in the one who gave me life
I can have life eternal because he paid the price
I'm alive because He lives in me
I'm alive because He set me free
I'm alive because He loved me
I Come to Life
I'm ALIVE!

From the ashes of the dead, new life is born
And hope will rise like the sun on Easter morn
The same fire that ravages, gives warmth and light
The same fire that destroys, on a candle, is a welcome sight
We will rise again on the wings of the dawn
We will dance with the joy of a newborn fawn
It is a chance to rebuild, restart, and renew
To see what beauty lies hidden from view
From out of the ashes, we will rise again
We say: "Let it be done" Amen
From the crucible of fire, we will survive
Having been purified, we will now thrive
The loss is real, but it mustn't feel
Like the end. It is a brand-new start
And the memory will remain here in our hearts
I truly believe that out of the ashes we will find
Evidence of something profoundly divine
That in its wake there will come a grand revival
An awakening of faith that will have no rival
There will be a day of great jubilation
Where people will come from every nation
To join hands and hearts as sister and brother
Where peace resides and we love one another
From these ashes, I pray we will remember
That life is fleeting, and life is a treasure
But we will rise above the ashes and dust
To find something in which we can trust

God Works when we are doing His Work
He opens doors and windows
When we are not so sure, He will provide
For He is good, and he Adores us
Let us worship and Adore Him Christ our King
He never seems to mind proving us wrong
Or testing our trust by making us wait
But His blessings are perfect, they are never late
Just today, for me, God pulled through
And made this writing possible for you
So, trust in the Lord and give Him praise
Sing to Him a new song for all of your days
Do the work of God with Joy in your heart
Be passionate about His work that you do
Be faithful and He will be more faithful
Be good and He will help you be your best
Be rich in His love and abundantly blessed
Be reconciled and begin to truly heal
Know what you're in for when you seal the deal
But God only opens doors: we have to take action
I am pulled in by some divine attraction
Like a Jesus Christ Moth to a Holy Flame
I am drawn to the light; even compelled
Some might believe I was even enspelled
But if there is nothing else to be gained
I ask that you take this one grain:
That God Work when we are doing His Work

Lord, help me love you enough to be comfortable sitting in silence
Lord, help me trust you enough to know when it is time to let go
Lord, help me listen enough so that I recognize the sound of your voice
Lord, help me be strong enough to fight against temptation
Lord, help me be brave enough to stand up for those who cannot
Lord, help me be open enough to receive you fully into my life
Lord, help me be wise enough to make good choices and speak carefully
Lord, help me find you enough to fulfill the longings of my heart
Lord, help me find joy enough to feel so fully and wonderfully alive
Lord, help me forgive enough by remembering how you forgave
Lord, help me fall enough to be more in love with you each day
Lord, help me be enough to do your will and make you smile
Lord, would you be enough to sit with me for a while?

Amen

I felt no shame I did not cry
When I shouted: "Let him be crucified!"
And you forgave me
It was I who turned away and denied
Who swore to all I did not know you
Only later did I realize all along you knew
And you forgave me
It was I who betrayed you with a kiss
After all this time it has to end like this
And still you forgave me
I could not watch so I ran away and hid
I was a coward a scared little kid
And you forgave me
It was I who slept when you needed me most
It was I who foolishly abandoned my post
And you forgave me
It was I who mocked you and I who jeered
I who rent your clothes and plucked your beard
And you forgave me
It was I who condemned you out loud
To appease the maddened mobbing crowd
And you forgave me
It was I on your left that told you to prove
If you are the Christ, then stop this and move
And you look at me with love
It was I on your right who asked "Remember Me"
And in spite of everything, all of my history
In that moment I was free

It was I who shared the burden on the road
Helping you to shoulder that heavy load
It was I who stayed close to the very end
Why you would suffer though I could not comprehend
It was I who tenderly wiped your face
A small act of love, and mercy and grace
It was I who anointed and dried your feet with my hair
Sparing no cost to show you how much I care
It was I whom you saved from a life of sin
You would die to make new life begin
It was I whom you called from the sleep of death
And I watch as you now give your last breath
I who gave you life now mourn and weep
My heart is pierced with sorrow so deep

It is you who took our sin and shame
It is you who took on all the blame
It is you who died so I might live
It is you who said to me: "I Forgive"
It is you who looked with loving eyes
It is you who saw past all disguise
It is you who make me reconciled
It is you who call me beloved child
It is you the pure spotless sacrificial lamb
It is you my Lord my Savior, the Great I Am

Who am I, that I should stand
That I should speak as though I understand
That I should sing when words fail
That I should live to tell the tale
Who am I, that I should write
Of one beyond our mind and sight
Who am I, that He might save
When I should be the one in that grave
Who am I, that I should look on love
And feel him smiling from up above
Who am I, that I should gaze upon Him
Against whose radiance the sun is dim
In Him I find my identity, who I really am
A child of the king and a precious lamb

He calls us children and loves us the same
He knows us and calls us each by name
Who is He, that He should send His son to die
That He was earthly virtue personified
That He would serve and love and teach
That across the miles and years He would reach
That He would come again one day
Who sent His Spirit to us to stay
Who is He that considers me worthy
Who is He of endless grace and mercy
He is my everything: my beginning and my end
He is my strength and shield in whom I depend
He is mine and I am His
I am a child of Jesus!

Life is like a great big balancing act
When we can't find our center, things are out of whack
Too many irons in the fire and too much on our plate
Its chaos truly, but if anyone asks, things are great!
Life is playing a tug-of-war, and I seem to be the rope
To finally step off this wild ride there seems but little hope
My priorities are a mess, and my life is out of order
And I can't call for help, 'cause I just put in my last quarter
The world is spinning sideways, my life is upside down
I don't know which way is up; my head keeps spinning round
I know I've lost the rhythm, help me find the perfect beat
And when I find that groove again, I'll put it on repeat
If I looked the world over there is one thing I would miss
That would put color in a life that is currently so colorless
Something not of this world; some celestial force
To some, it is quite alien, but it's Jesus Christ of course!
With Jesus at my center I feel, at last, made whole
And now I can truly say that this is the story of a soul
That once was lost and in chains
But has been found and set free
Through the suffering and the pains
My Lord and Savior died for me
As all things come from Him, He is the center of all things
And so, from Him, to all my life, joy and peace He brings
He is there when life's demands I'm juggling
He is there when it's clear I'm struggling
But when I focus and don't look to do too much
Then, I find sometimes I can have the perfect touch
So, Jesus be my center; my rock, my cornerstone
You are the best balancing beam I have ever known!

There is nothing greater than a mother's love
I'll move mountains, move heaven and earth
To comfort you and lift you up
To be there for you night and day
And if you are lost it will help you find your way
There is nothing fiercer than a mother's love
They'd do anything to keep their little one safe
They dry your tears and calm your fears
They hold you tight and make things alright
They share your joy and suffering
And they softly sing while you sleep
A song of love, asking the angels to watch and keep you safe
Till the light breaks forth in the eastern sky
To bathe the whole world in its soft yellow dye
There is nothing stronger than a mother's love
They are there when you need to sit in silence
Leave the door open and they will be with you
They know just what to say, they know your every need
They nurture and care and raise you up from the smallest seed
Until one day you bloom and grow beautiful strong and tall
You bring joy to their hearts every time you call
They love to listen, they give sage advice
A little of our time is their only price
There is nothing greater than a mother's love
There is nothing sweeter or more fine
There is nothing better than a mother's hug
And, somehow, they seem to have God's direct line
There is nothing greater than a mother's love
And none so great or perfect as our Heavenly Mother
She is the ladder between heaven and earth
For God became man through divine birth
How great was her love for her son
How great is her love for all of us
And nothing is greater that our mother's love

Lord, thank you for mothers. Our earthly mothers and our mother in heaven. They are such a blessing. You knew that as lost children, we would need a mother to care for us, to lead us and teach us. Thank you for our mothers, Lord. Help us to respect, cherish and honor them always and may we be a blessing to our mothers even as they have blessed us. We pray for those who are still with us and those who have gone before us to pray and intercede on our behalf. Mothers have a special place in your heart Oh Lord. Keep us close to yours. Amen

Lord, help me be open and present
To your will and your love
Even when I only hear silence
Grant my soul peace and my mind calm
As I am before you, open and present
And still, I know you are with me
I know you are near
You are faithful now and always you will be
I will remain faithful to you
It has been thirty-four days on this journey to you
And somehow, I'm still blown away even though I knew
That it could happen that it would happen:
Forty-six days forty-six brand new writings
With twelve days left and Holy week fast approaching
Help me continue to be open and present
That you for this gift that is heaven sent
That you for the trial and transformation of Lent
That you for the preparation and peace of Advent
That you for this daily living
For the breath that you keep giving
For the bread by which we're fed
For the light by which we're led
Thank you for the gifts you bring
Thank you, Lord, for everything
Lord, help me be open and present

Amen

The art of humility is to take the bad with the good
It is being able to see ourselves as only Jesus could
It is accepting us for who we are: darkness and light
It is through embracing both the day and the night
It may not always be what we want, but it's what we need
And in embracing the cross that we find ourselves freed
Our view of life is often narrow and clouded
We see things too close and things are shrouded
From our view. We must step back to see clearly
But finding the truth can cost us quite dearly
For when we see as God sees us
When we take in the bigger picture
We see with the eyes of Jesus
In the lens of the living scripture.
When we are honest about ourselves
And we know that he loves us and always will
We feel the depth of that Amazing Grace
And what we see changes everything
Amen

Come enter into this sanctuary
Come to the place of bended knee
Approach the inner courts humbly
You come before the God the Lord of Host
Before Him who loved us the most
Come into the most sacred place
Where we meet Jesus face to face
The sanctuary is a safe place, a haven
A place to go when you need savin'
In the shadow of the cross
Life is found in what once was lost
In the shelter of His wings
We find peace, hope, and holy things
Come enter into the secret hideaway
Where all your troubles just melt away
Take a few minutes of each day
To enter the sanctuary, to stay and pray

"I think I know the right thing for me
I think I know what will make me happy
I think I know why and when and how
And I think that this is what I need right now
Lord you must be mistaken. Surely, I know best!
I got this Lord. You just take it easy and rest".

But it turns out that I wasn't completely right
Not completely no. Pretty close, but not quite
I don't ever like to admit that I was wrong
That you really knew what was best all along

"Maybe I should listen a little more when you speak
Maybe I should try to be more humble and meek
You come when I need it most, at just the right time
And the feeling when you come to me is simply so sublime
Let Your Will be done Oh Lord in me, with me and through"

"Be open to my love and let me work miracles through you
My timing is perfect, my plan, definitely divine
Everything has a purpose everything is by design.
When the time is right trust that you will know
But until then, be content to live in my love and grow
I hear your prayers and answer you
But not always how you thought
This relationship requires not one, but two
It takes some skills that can't be taught
But with work, with patience, and with care
We create something beautiful beyond compare.

Oh! And there is one more thing... I know it's challenging
But child, I need you to have patience with me
I promise you, you'll love it! Just you wait and see!
Trust me when I say that what I have in mind is worth the wait
It will arrive just in time. I guarantee it won't be late
So take my hand and come with me as we walk for a while
By your side is where I'll be. I love to see you smile!"

I saw the sign and it opened up my eyes to see
How many great things you are doing in me
The sign of faith, the sign of peace, the sign of the cross
They all point me to a final destination
Like guideposts to give me direction
You are a sign for you have Christ within you
The work that you do, the success that you have
Jesus is the source of your many blessings
The one who gives and takes away
Be a sign for others and point the way to Him
Let your transformation be witness to the love
All the God given gifts that he meant for us to use
But whether you exercise the is for you to choose
I pray that my gifts would not so much reflect me
Not I, but Christ that lives within me
That these writings would point to God
To his love, his mercy, his goodness
You are a gift God gave to the whole human race
You have the chance to make this world a better place
"Do what is necessary, then do what is possible
And before long you will find you are doing the impossible"
Do your best let God do the rest and then don't stress it
Even in the smallest things do it with love and humility
And I promise it is something that even the blind can see
You and I are signs of God's love and faithfulness
Let them see his light reflected in your eyes
And to all who see you, bear no false disguise
You may be a miracle someone desperately needs
Be the blessed sign that points to the divine
The seeds of faith and grace
Have now been sown
Their one and only encounter with God
May have been you, with God, alone

May your lives be the Star; constant and bright
Leading others to Christ in the darkest night
May your lives be the Sign; pointing the way
Every hour, every minute, every second of the day

Amen

Be patient
Be kind
Be generous
Be loving

Be helpful
Be merciful
Be slow to anger
Be quick to forgiving

Be peaceful
Be prayerful
Be hopeful
Be cheerful

Be not afraid
Be amazed
Be bold
Be gentle

Be meek
Be mild
Be saved
Be reconciled

Be found
Be healed
Be on solid ground
Be sealed

Be soil
Be sun
Be rain
Be the one

Be builders
Be makers
Be movers
Be shakers

Be you
Be true
Be genuine
Be mine

Be faithful
Be trusting
Be reaching
Be preaching

Be walking the walking
Be talking the talking
Be walking the talking
Be talking the walking

Be humble
Be blessed
Be remade
Be at rest

You work all things for the good of those who love you. You don't waste anything Lord: there is nothing that you won't or can't use. Suffering being chief among them. Perhaps our suffering will lead us to even more amazing graces and take us to greater unimagined places. Maybe our sufferings (at least some of them) are truly blessings in disguise and later we will see the purpose. Maybe we ask for the wrong things, maybe we aren't asking the right questions. We can't know your mind Oh Lord, but in your mercy, help us begin to understand: the reason for the suffering and the glory you have planned. In all things, help us have the right attitude and adopt a proclivity for profound gratitude. Hear us and help us Oh Lord of all to carry out this (Be)Attitude call.

Amen

You are loved far beyond measure
You are the Father's greatest treasure
More beautiful than diamonds, more precious by far
In His loving eyes, you outshine the brightest star
The world rates your value with fancy graphs and charts
But God looks deeper into your very heart of hearts
He has loved you from before time ever began
He has carved you into the palm of his hand
You may be small; you may be weak or insecure
But all that He sees instead is a loving heart so pure
He sees someone He can use, someone He can build
A masterpiece in the hands of a master so skilled
He thinks the world of you: in fact, He gave you the world
Lean into the wind and fly on wings of hope unfurled
If you ever doubt my love look upon that cross which I, dying, lay
I poured out my heart, my love, my life for you that fateful day
Not even death would keep me from loving you
The only thing I ask is that you love me too
I love you for always, I love you forever
And I hope one day we will be together
But for now, just know, I am always very near
When you kneel to pray you will find me here
I am close as your heartbeat, your very next breath
My love will follow you beyond life to life eternal after death
I love you; I love you; I love you. I love you and you are mine
And by this wondrous love you will be, for the world, a living sign

Open and broken
Love was spoken

Come back to the place
Of forgiveness and grace

Come back to me and be healed
Come to me and find truth revealed

I will always take you back
Find in me what you lack

I am crazy in love with you
I'm not too good to be true

It is the greatest story ever told
Already more than 2000 years old

You just met me and this is crazy
But I love you. Please call me daily

You are my beloved, you I want to bless
It's a love story, child just say: Yes

My love for you is fiercer than a hurricane
Once you feel it you will never be the same

I was broken so I could make you whole
I will heal your beat up and broken soul

All for you I was crucified
Because of you I freely died

I can lead you to the living water, but I can't make you drink
In faith, walk on water. I'll catch you if you start to sink

I am dying just to meet you
I pray that one day, I will greet you

I love you now and forever without end
In courage and compassion, to the world I send

I am in your corner; I will help you fight
And when you are lost, I will be your light

I rejoice for you are alive, no longer dead
In your hunger, I will keep you fed

The blind will see, the lost are found
The lame will walk, mute are filled with sound

The angels sing a heavenly chorus
When we pray for others as they pray for us

The act of forgiveness is truly freeing
Know the unbearable lightness of simply being

It is enough for me just to glow in your presence Lord
As, for an hour or so, I sit, and we are of one accord

For a moment our hearts beat in harmony
As with saints and angels I am in your company

Lord, please come fill this longing deep inside
Flood me with you, as you break me open wide

Thank the Lord for He is merciful, and He is kind
The sins we confess are forgotten, left far behind
He is slow to anger, and He is rich in compassion
Clothed with majesty and with love: a style always in fashion
Holy and righteous, powerful and true
Before you even said a word, He already knew
It's not something that we could ever earn
And, by all accounts, we really all should burn
It certainly isn't something that we deserve
I tremble before you and I lose my nerve
I cry "Have mercy on me Oh Lord a sinner"
But you lift me up and say "I'm coming to dinner"
"Lord my God, I am not worthy that you should enter under my roof
Heal my heart so that I may have irrefutable proof".
Thank Him for His Mercy and all that love has done
Thank Him for his Mother and His one and only son
Help me have mercy on those that test my restraint
For, you bear my grievances with the patience of a saint
Forgive me Lord for the times I have failed
It was for those faults that you were nailed
Forgive me when I was a thorn in your side
Forgive me when I am overcome by pride
Your grace is enough for me, help me extend it to others
For all people are our neighbors, our sisters and our brothers
The two greatest commandments are about love
And out of love came mercy and grace
A river of life flowing down from Heaven above
A heart big enough for the whole human race
So, thank Him for his mercy in everything you do
And remember, no matter what: God Loves You!

Tonight I find myself so grateful that things work out this way
Tonight I reflect upon the real power of those who pray
I was so convinced that things were looking quite grim
My trust in God on the other hand was looking a little thin
But God is with us and God does provide
Even when we're in the middle of a very wild ride
Divine Intervention led me to the place where I was
And God will use such things as only God does
And I truly believe in Divine Intercession: the power of prayer
Thank you for taking the time to show how much you care
But God has proved to me one more time
Who is in control. It will all work out just fine.

When the path before you is hard to see
And the air is so thick that you cannot breathe
In the chasm of silence, soft words are spoken
And the embers of life are reawakened

The Spirit that slumbers so deep within
Is released and in final victory over death and sin
Like the sun rises on the wings of dawn
Like the wind in the trees fills you with song
Like the water: freely and gently flowing
Like the flame of a candle: so warmly glowing
Like the mountains reaches to heights untold
Like the oceans: mystery and treasure we hold
Like the lighthouse shines a bright beacon
Like the wand'ring star: we follow to find what we are seekin'
Like the rainbow: a promise of faith, hope, and love
Like the trees: stretching toward the Son up above
We are bearers of the Spirit's great Holy Light
Commissioned to go forth and banish the night
To all the ends of the earth we are sent
To share the good news with loving intent

You’ve been hurt and broken I’ve been there before
Beaten, bruised, and mocked: you can’t take it any more
Stripped of possessions and dignity, feeling less than poor
I felt the nails as they were driven so deep
I knew the sorrows as my own and I would weep
I remember the long days and longer nights with no sleep
The pain you feel now, I intimately understand
I cover you with love and hold you in my hand
You can’t see it now, but I have something planned
Rest now my child. Rest in my merciful heart
Be at peace my child. And in peace healing can start
And I will mend and piece together every broken part
Run into my arms and there you can begin to heal
With my love surrounding you, begin once more to feel
Cling to me when the nightmares come back and seem so real
My love for you will never fade nor will it dim or die
And when you are overwhelmed come to me and cry
I will dry your eyes and fill you with a happy sigh
Keep your eyes on me and you will see the sun come shining through
What will come out of the storm is a better stronger you
I will see you through whatever I have brought you to
Trust in me, rest in my love oh my sweet little one
My grace in you and with you and through you has just begun
Rejoice, there is so much left to do before our work is done!

You alone Lord truly know our pain when no one else can. Too often we suffer in silence and solitude. Remind us that we are never alone. You suffered the same. May we find comfort and solace in our sharing and find the strength to carry our cross with your help. And although suffering is hard, there are blessings still in being able to help others who are hurting. When we can lift others up, we are lifted up as well. In your merciful heart and endless love, help us find peace and begin to heal from our brokenness and pain. May our hearts find the peace and refreshment that only comes from resting in Your healing heart Oh God. Amen

The spirit is willing to hear your every word
But my body says, this is right now, absurd
For sleep comes welcome to the weary worn
But I have made a covenant that will not be torn
Give me strength Lord for my lids are as stone
Give me light for my sight grows dim
Give me your promise I won’t go through life alone
Give me your heart afire from within
The struggle is real Lord and the fight is long
The spirit remains, but strength is gone
Tomorrow is a new day full of promise and vigor
And I’ll be there with strength and a heart that is bigger

Take a look outside and relay what you see
The rainbow, the dew, mountain and tree
We look at them, yes but try to look deeper still
There is beauty complexity and a purpose to fill
The glory of creation reflecting the creator
Beauty so divine nothing could be greater
Who can look at nature and not be moved?
Who can truly see and say God cannot be proved?
Everywhere I turn there is beauty and grace
It brings a tear to my eye and a smile on my face
In a society so focused on progress and speed
We lose so much of what we desperately need
We miss the signs, and miracles and wonders
That are there just waiting to be found
The beauty of creation our Lord in glory crowned
So dance in the sun and run in the field
In smelling the roses, God’s love is revealed
The rainbow a promise of forgiveness and light
The stars to guide us through the night
Everything in life so perfectly designed
To try to comprehend just blows my mind
So next time don’t just look, but truly see
The majesty, the splendor, the art of God’s glory

"Doth not all nature around me praise God? If I were silent, I should be an exception to the universe. Doth not the thunder praise Him as it rolls like drums in the march of the God of armies? Do not the mountains praise Him when the woods upon their summits wave in adoration? Doth not the lightning write His name in letters of fire? Hath not the whole earth a voice? And shall I, can I, silent be?"

- Charles Spurgeon

"God writes the Gospel not in the Bible alone, but also on trees, and in the flowers and clouds and stars."

- Martin Luther

Lord thank you for the gift of nature and creation. So often, we are so preoccupied with life that we miss all that life and life in you has in store. Help us to see your fingerprints all over and have the childlike joy in the smallest things. Bless us Lord and open our eyes and hearts to not just look, but truly see your beauty and how much you mean to me. Amen

It's time to take a spiritual audit
Take stock of our accounts and plot it
Where are we spiritually? Red or Black?
Are we simply playing defense or are we on the attack?
What is cluttering our lives preventing light from getting in?
And what is so loud that we can't hear God above the din?
Do not be afraid my children, do not live in fear
Trust in the power of God knowing He is here
Let his love lift you up from the spiritual grave
Go therefore and proclaim: "My God is mighty to Save!"
At times we lose sight of what matters the most
None are perfect, indeed, so that none may boast
But we return to God with all our hearts
Cleanse us Lord of all that keeps us apart
Fear has no place before God's amazing grace
Trusting in God and his power and glory
We share in the writing of salvation's story
Let it be done to me according to Your Will
And give me the courage to wait and be still
Lead me back to your loving arms once again
Trusting in the power of God and not men
I fall on my knees "Lord, rescue me please
From myself and from my enemies.
I (re)dedicate my life to you in this hour on this day
And the fear that once controlled me be overcome I pray

So many of us have so much clutter in our lives (both physical and spiritual) that we miss all the blessings and God's great purpose and plan for our lives. Two stories that come to mind about clutter and houses in the Bible are the story of Zacchaeus and the story about Jesus overturning the tables in the temple. Our heart's house (temple) for the Lord is cluttered and there are places we are ashamed of; places that are locked and hidden away. The Album (See Inside) by Out of the Grey is wonderful and ties to this theme quite well, especially the song "That's Where I Live". We know you live inside our hearts, make our heart your home, a place you want to live, and help us open the door and welcome you in. Lord, give us the courage and strength by your grace to dedicate or (re)dedicate our lives to you today. Amen

Enter In

Stand now before the heavenly gates
Made clean by the blood which expiates
Come now before the resplendent throne
Lift your voice in praise with trumpets blown
And here bowing down in adoration
Come one come all and enter in

Open my heart open my mind and soul
Help me to focus on the final goal
To be as one in spirit and in flesh
With Christ the Lord whom I so bless
That I may learn and grow and be taught
And reflect Him in action and thought

Come to love Him who loves so deeply
Know the one who knows you so completely
Lose yourself in the sea of total surrender
Find healing in the arms strong and tender

S e  e  s-t-a-bil-i-ty           becomes the center
                                  When
                                     HE

                   ——————————
The doors |                               | are open wide
                    |                               |
                    |                               |
                    |                               |

                               So just
                              
                               ENTER
                                   IN

And when you do:

STOP
for a moment
.
.
.
.

Inhale deeply and fully the subtle scent
Of change in you on the smallest scale
And in your bones know that love will not fail
Should the earth crumble and sun lose it’s fire
His burning love for you shall not expire

Dare to enter in more deeply today
Open yourself more freely

and be
        
              s  
                     w    
                              e      
                                        p      
                                                    t

                                                               away

Lord, give me the heart of a seeker
Give me the love of a teacher
The patience of a caring parent
The wisdom of the aged ones
The energy and joy of the young

Lord, give me the heart of a seeker
Give me the vision of the dreamer
The hope from a heart filled with faith
The peace of a life lived in grace
The satisfaction of knowing you

Lord, give me the heart of a seeker
Give me the zeal of the preacher
The depth and breadth like the ocean
And the delight in my daily devotion
The firmness of a foundation on the rock

Lord, give me the heart of a seeker
Give me the hands of a healer
The power of persistent prayer
The knowledge that you are there
The courage to accept the answer

Lord, give me the heart of a seeker
Give me the faith of the truest believer
The purity of principled passion
The clarity of the chosen calling
The strength and fortitude to ascend

Lord, give me the heart of a seeker
Look with favor upon your creature
For, I still need a savior, a redeemer
The love of your law makes me freer
And as I go, draw me in ever deeper

Speak to me Lord
Tell me what I need to hear
You have called my name out loud
Speak Lord, your servant is listening
You have the words of everlasting life
And I have confidence in Christ

When life has me tired and worn
When I find myself in the storm
When I am on the long, lonely road
Burdened by a heavy load of my own design
You are there walking too
And I have confidence in you

I have come through many trials
I have walked through the fire
While I'm walking in the light
I am safe from the shadows of the night
Because you are with me
And I have confidence in thee

In the sun and through the rain
I am new, I'm not the same
In the movement of the Spirit
I come with gladness to visit
My Lord with all love and affection
And this will be my true confession:
I have confidence in Him

I have confidence in my Jesus
Who frees us and who sees us
I have confidence in my savior
Sacrificial love is his very nature
I have confidence that he is at my side
And I know that he will provide

In faith I believe
And in faith I receive
The greatest gift of all
To love him
And to know him
And to answer to the call

For he speaks to mind and heart
He speaks and then I will start
He speaks and the soul draws near
He speaks and I have no fear
He speaks and says "Come Follow"
He speaks and I leave it all without sorrow

No matter what the future holds
I will pursue the highest goals
I fix my eyes toward the heavens
My help comes from the Lord
So, I will have confidence even through strife
I will have confidence in my Jesus Christ

You, oh Lord, have come down to earth
God by design and human by birth
Entered into a relationship with us
Our creation is your magnum opus
We are made perfect through the sacrifice
Your death is what paid the price
And still you longed to always be
So close to us that we might see
You in all your glory and majesty.
In the form of bread and wine
Given a foretaste of the divine
United to you now in body and soul
I am ever closer to the highest goal
You are part of me and we are one
And never shall this action be undone
I can feel your heartbeat so strong
You are the words to my greatest song
You are as close as my very next breath
In fact, without you, I have only death
You are the strength to take the next step
You are the wind that fills my sails
You are in the smallest of details
You are so close that I am surrounded
So close the hairs on my head are counted

Empty and open
Beautifully broken
Sweetest surrender
Holy Spirit sender
Lost are found
Last are crowned
Heavenly Bread
Keep us fed
Forever in our heart
There from the start
Aways on our mind
Hand of the divine
Sit in sacred silence
God's holy presence
In humble adoration
From this lowly station
Sing a hymn to him alone
Be blessed and find shalom
Holy Mary mother dear
To our prayer incline your ear
Hold us closely to your chest
In your arms we will find rest
Holy Queen be ever true
As we place our trust in you
To intercede on our behalf
And bring us home to Christ at last
In love and Christian charity
And full of ardent sincerity
Loving God and our neighbor
We seek the face of the creator
Hidden, yet revealed in glory
Called to be part of the story
We come empty and broken
But we leave with love beautifully spoken

Jesus calls out to us: "Come to Me"
And, filled with faith, we walk upon the sea
With our eyes upon the master, we rise above
And we walk to him with hearts full of love

But then we look down and see just where we are
We falter and start to sink after we came so far
We reach out for Jesus to save us again
We lost our focus and what happened then?

We have all been prodigal
We have all been dead in our sin
We have all denied the Father
And wanted our own life to begin

We have chased things that leave us empty
We have consumed things that do not satisfy
We have searched for love in all the wrong places
We hit rock bottom, ready to break down and cry

We are in the land of loss and suffering
We brought this upon ourselves
Wandering in the barren lands
Chained up in our own personal hells

Eventually we come to our senses
We see the price that our actions cost
We come crawling back to our home
But we are back; we are no longer lost

We are filled with sorrow and remorse
But the past is in the past; right now, we celebrate
"Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet
The finest wine put in his cup and meat upon his plate"

Today, all of Heaven rejoices with a grand feast
Light and life arise like the morning sun in the east
There is now much laughter and music and dance
The colors are more vivid, and my senses enhanced

We will come from suffering to celebration
We will come to a more perfect relation
We will know the true joy of Easter morn
Because, from out of suffering, we have been borne

Lord, thank you for your saving grace and for calling us to yourself. We are called to rise above the trials and storms of life, and we can when we keep our eyes fixed on you. But we lose focus Lord, we doubt, and we are pulled under. Save us Lord and give us the courage to step out on the water and go where you call us. We also pray that you would see us through the suffering to celebrate with you again. Help us be mindful of our sins and soften our hearts to be remorseful and repentant so we may rise with you in your resurrection. Amen.

We will close with these words:
"There's no one more thankful to sit at the table than the one who best remembers hunger's pain. And no heart loves greater than the one that is able to recall the time when all it knew was shame". --Steven Curtis Chapman "Remember Your Chains"

What this world so desperately needs is a true conversion
We need a divine healer and, sometimes, a divine surgeon
Right now, so many believe the world revolves around them
And anyone who argues differently, we quickly condemn
For all who miss the bigger picture, there is only one solution
What we need right now is to renew a Copernican Revolution
The idea that we are not the center of the universe
It must seem so backwards, it must seem so reversed
The earth revolves around the sun
And we revolve around God's only Son
For He is the glue that binds it all together
He is the anchor in stormy weather
What the world needs is a change of heart
But the change in me is where it needs to start
With Jesus at my center, I've got a radioactive core
And then there is the glow which is pretty hard to ignore
But not just once, I need it now and every day
I have this true conversion when I humble myself and pray:
I need your love, I need your mercy and grace
I need your presence to fill my every space
I need you Lord, more than breath, more than life
I need you because, without you, I am but dust in the wind
You still loved me even when, against you, I knowingly sinned
Death and separation should be my eternal reward
But in your sacrifice, you paid the price I could not afford
So now I live, not I, but Christ that lives within me
And by the blood of the Spotless Lamb, I have been set free
You are in my heart and in the depths of my soul
So Jesus, you are driving; help me give you all control

Lord Jesus, creator of all the universe, thank you for making it the way you did. The earth and the planets revolve around the sun just as our lives are in balance when we revolve around your Son. So many people in the world today put other things in the center of their lives and put themselves at the center of their universe. As Christians and Humans, we can do this too. Forgive us for our shortsightedness and open our eyes to see the bigger picture. Show us, Lord, that our lives make more sense are more in balance, when we put you in the middle. All things came from you in the first place. You were the beginning; you were the first cause. Help us refocus our priorities Lord and have this true conversion we need. And let us lovingly witness to others this change in word and prayer and deed. We ask this and all things with confidence to Jesus; the Son who is the Center in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen