To look on love is to gaze at Jesus' face
To start to understand the depth of Amazing Grace
To look on love is to see past the faults to the good within
To still be loved and cherished even when we sin
To look on love we open ourselves to pain and heartache
But to keep pressing on when it's all that you can take
To look on love is to find someone who challenges us to grow
Attuned so well that, when something is amiss, they know
To look on love is to find a true friend; a treasure most precious of all
And when you are in need they come breaking down the wall
To look on love is to be at peace when there are no words
Someone to carry you when the cross you bear really hurts
To look on love is to see with eyes beyond the human mind
That searching the depths of our souls we find
To look on love is to take the joy with the pain
And find sunshine in the middle of the rain
To look on love is to find a place of inner peace
Where light and life are found, fears are stilled, and troubles cease
To look on love is to find that which does inspire
And will find your soul's one true desire
To look on love is a feeling so swell
For love takes all but a lifetime to tell

I want to know You a little more,
Love you a little deeper than before.

I want to see your face
Shining in every place.

Lord you have my heart and you have my soul,
Now I'm askin' you to take all control.

Where would I be, what would I do,
Who would I be if I didn't have you?

Nailed to a tree you bore my sin in death;
You loved me right through Your very last breath

You hold me and love me and call me your child,
You cleanse me, forgive me when I am defiled.

Once again I stand before you, amazed.
By the depths of your heart, Your mercy and grace.
Lord be Praised!

In the end we'll all make it to home
You aren't left out no matter where you roam
Everyone is welcome in God's heaven
The perfect example is 9-11
God owns a place in every person's heart
He has and will love you right from the start
Whatever you to has an impact on someone's life
For better or worse for relief or strife
One home sweet home to come to
So many chances to start anew
Life doesn't change to meet your needs
God is like the gardener pulling out sin like weeds
Trust and follow and obey your gut
Don't get too carried away and dig yourself a rut
Everyone needs support, encouragement, a lift
Every person should be loved just like a good gift
Home is so sweet but it can get a bitter taste
Savor the sweet and send off the bitter with haste
You have changed my life for good I wouldn't be the same
My time had no purpose... until you came
You keep my hopes up ever high
You always encourage me to touch the sky
Set goals, pass them, make another
These poems to me are almost like a second mother
I just feel safe behind these faithful words
I let my emotions sing like little morning birds

Desperate and broken, you came to me in my time of great need
Dry and dead, you were like water to seed
You hung and bled and died to set the captives free
But being good is one thing I know I'll never be.

In union with the angels who sing your praise
My head I will bow and my hands I will raise
Covered by mercy and love, forgiveness and grace
I stand in wonder and awe, completely amazed

The path to Heaven is very narrow and uphill
May it be done to me according to Your Will.
The depths of your heart so much greater still
The universe could not hope to fill

Your love for us is greater far
Than the sands on the earth and every star.
Artist composer and author you are
Loving us still: all covered with scar

As tears fill my eyes I weep bitterly
How could one as perfect as you love a mess like me
Only a wonderful, and beautiful mess you see

Before you I come: humble and broken
You know everything before one word has been spoken

Beneath lust greed and pride
You go deep down inside
Down through the muck, you make the beautiful come alive

"Brighter than any diamond or the sun you shine
Because, my precious treasure, I love you and you are MINE!

The sky is bright and all seems right
And God is smiling on his child today! :)

Everywhere I look: poverty, war and sickness
The only news on T.V. is negative. What is this?!
I feel so sorry for the poor, and hungry and lame
But I must remember Jesus has called us each by name.
Heart to heart; to love one another
Hand in hand as sister and brother.
It breaks my heart to see them suffering
I help because it is a good thing.
“They need more because they have less”
And realize later that God knows best.
Because while they might be “poor” and not have much,
They are rich in love and such.
Theirs is a faith so pure, and strong, and true
How poor I really was I never had a clue.
Now I can say in all honesty:
I gained a new perspective the day that you helped me!

You Oh Lord are the Alpha and the Omega
You Oh Lord are the beginning and the end
You Oh Lord are the counselor and healer
You Oh Lord bring us here and now you send
You Oh Lord are the word and the light
You Oh Lord are God of the day and the night
You Oh Lord are the wind and the rain
You Oh Lord are God of my joy and my pain
You Oh Lord are present here and now
You Oh Lord give me the strength to stand and to bow
You Oh Lord are God of my life and my death
You Oh Lord allow me to take my next breath
You Oh Lord are the life blood that flows
You Oh Lord stir a fire that grows
You Oh Lord are my rock and stronghold
You Oh Lord are the anchor to which I hold
You Oh Lord are my Shepherd my Master
You Oh Lord make my heart beat faster
You Oh Lord hold me in your hand
You Oh Lord are firm footing in shifting sand
You Oh Lord are my peace and provision
You Oh Lord help me make a good decision
You Oh Lord help make me complete
You Oh Lord have made me a seat
You Oh Lord are good when I am not
You Oh Lord love me a lot
You Oh Lord are the reason I get out of bed
You Oh Lord are where I lay my head
You Oh Lord are knocking at my heart
You Oh Lord love my every part
You Oh Lord of my good, bad, and fair
You Oh Lord are inescapable, you are everywhere
You Oh Lord love me even when I fall and sin
You Oh Lord you come running to take me back in
You Oh Lord are my shield and my sword
You are my Savior my King and my Lord

CAUTION: CONTAINS GRAPHIC IMMAGERY AND SOME LANGUAGE

DARKNESS


Darkness finds you and it binds you

Pins you firmly down upon the ground

Black is calling and you’re falling

Your cries are hopeless and you are ropeless

Sorrow beckons and hurts like weapons

You try to run, they laugh for fun

Misery takes you and it breaks you

Your life is in shambles, you’re full of brambles

Despair will come and make you no one

Beaten and ******, ripped up and muddy

Nowhere to go, you scream and you know

You’re stuck in a ditch, life’s a *****

In all your bleakness, hate knows your weakness

Come, give in, darkness will win

Rage soon rears its face, you will put others in their place

Darkness will pray and all this will stay

Until your death, your very last breath

They love you like mothers, they caress you like lovers

They are silently killing, your blood they are spilling

No place to hide, should you have died?

You are slowly dying and you still aren’t crying

Just know how much you are loved here on earth and above.

The Fifth Joyful Mystery:
The Finding in the Temple: Mary and Joseph find Jesus in the Temple

Jesus is missing for several days and Mary and Joseph are frantic and filled with worry! Where could he be? After much searching and worrying, the find Jesus in the temple sitting and talking with the teachers and high religious people, talking, learning, and teaching. Mary and Joseph are overjoyed to have found their son at last! Through this mystery Lord we pray May we be like Mary and Joseph and though we may have been lost to you or couldn’t find you that eventually we do find you again and are rejoice and be filled with gladness and joy to once again be reunited with you! In the times when we are lost, may we be reassured that, when we come back to you or you find us, that we will all rejoice as you welcome us with open arms. We pray this in Your Name. Amen

You are the source, the spring, the living well
You are the summit, fulfillment,
Your breath is life itself.
Mercy and grace flow; as water and blood from your side.
You are my source of pure joy.
Perfect peace and rest I find 'neath your shadow.
My rock, my stronghold, my fortress;
You are my strength and my help.
Everything I am, everything I have, you gave me.
I am nothing without you, you make me what I am.
I am beloved, cherished, treasured,
I am worthy, I am loved, I am yours!
You are my joy, the fire in my soul, the light in my eyes.
Kindle the fire, let me never lose my joy!

Amen

I look through my window at the stars as they shine
Showing their love to the creator divine.
I smell the flowers and breeze the sweetness drifting
Upward and onward to Heaven lifting.
I feel the grass beneath my feet, between my toes
I laugh and smile and all time seems to slow.
The birds sing their joyful songs
And the rocks and plants seem to sing along.
The crickets, frogs, and the night play out a chorus
How beautiful this symphony prepared for us!
All life, all the earth seems to have a voice
They sing praise to you and I make it my choice.
The most grand orchestra this world has and ever will see
How amazing this gift that you give to me!
You write your name on my heart and put a song in my soul
Gives a spring to my step like a young little foal.
My spirit soars on wings with the creatures of the air
Let me always feel with every bone in my body that you are always there!

Lord, on this holy day in which we celebrate Good Shepherd Sunday, we reflect on your love and guidance for your people as the Good Shepherd. You call us each by name and your sheep know your voice and follow you. There is so much noise in this world that distracts us and pulls our attention away from you and your loving word. Lead and guide us and keep us safe from harm. When we are lost and we stray, you bring us back to be with you again. We are a community; a living body united by you. There is strength and safety in numbers. On Good Shepherd Sunday, we pray for our clergy and especially our priests that they would be good leaders, protectors, and providers for their flocks. We pray that you give them strength, courage, and wisdom to do what is necessary. We pray for their safety and peace for, without their good guidance and council, we would be lost. Thank you Lord for giving us our Shepherds and I pray that we thank and recognize them for their leadership. Help each of us look to you, Lord Jesus, as the model and example as we try to follow what it means to be Good Shepherds for those around us. In this regard, we pray also for those in positions of authority and power that you would put good influences in their lives to help them choose the best good. Jesus, you are the Shepherd of our minds, hearts, souls and lives. Thank you!

Amen

In the arms of the angels you will be safe and warm
In the arms of the angels there is shelter from the storm
In the arms of the angels you will fly far away from here
In the arms of the angels there will be nothing to fear
In the arms of the angels you will dance across the stars
And find a place of healing and rest and no more nasty scars

Help me Lord to see your face
When I am in the desert place

I am safe and warm
I find shelter from the storm

I know I'm alive and free
Because you are with me

So in life or death I know
There is a place I can go:

Down on my knees
There is a longing, a strength and peace

Your love is the anchor to which I hold
When the sea of life is stormy and the wind blows rough and cold

You are my fortress, and my rock, my refuge, my strong tower
You are with me always, now and in my final hour

You are a lighthouse beacon to light my way and guide me home
It reaches me wherever I hide, wherever I roam

Jesus healer of our every ill
Let all things be done according to your will
You heal our broken hearts and, once more, make us whole
You are an oasis to the desert of our soul
You are Lord over all creation: water, earth, and sky
When I am weak and worn, into your arms I fly
You are the divine physician; healer of what ails us
We look to you for healing when this world fails us
I would be lost if I didn't know that you are by my side
I dwell in the safety of your shadow when I am terrified
I love you my Lord, take pity on my state
Have mercy on me in your love so great
If it please you Lord, take this pain and suffering
That, of your power, I might sing
But if you don't and this is my cross to bear
I am reminded of your suffering there
Let this be my sacrifice pleasing unto you
Hear the prayers of your servant; faithful and true
I offer it all up for the intentions of those people today
Especially those who need healing in some way
Look on us with eyes of love; hide not your face
We call you now: let your presence saturate this space

I am forever changed; no I’ll never be the same
Since the day that you first came
Came into my life

I am a better person now I realize this is true
And it’s all because I had the joy
The joy of knowing you

You taught me how to love, to play, and live
And what I wouldn’t give to spend one more day
Just one more day with you

I learned about true friends and that it’s okay to cry
You were always there for me and I’ll never know
I’ll never know a better friend than you

You made a place inside my heart; it was there that you would stay
The time has come and you have gone away
Leaving me with a hole in my heart that will not leave

My love for you will never die
Though the tears my dry in time
Time will never erase the love I have for you

I miss you dearly my beloved friend
You are with us to the end
You are at our very core
Now be at peace forever more

Take me where I am, meet me where I am
Shepherd me Oh Lord like a little lamb
You are my protector, you are my defender
Help me run to you when I hear the voice of the pretender
You are my salvation and my Rock
An open heart and mind has many a door unlocked
You are my fortress and my strong tower
When I am weak and worn you have the power
You are my shield in front and my sword beside
You are my armor Lord you are big when I am small inside
You lift me up and take me in
You run to me when I confess my sin
You are my healer my balm and salve when I am sick
You have never left my side through thin and very thick
You care for me and love me. You send me your Spirit
You never gave up on me even when I wanted to quit
I love you I praise you I give glory to your name
Your words are living and dynamic yet ever the same
I bless you and thank you for all that you are
Prince of Peace, King of Kings, Morning Star
Many names for one so high
But above all else you love me so much you would die
No greater love there is than to lay down one's life for a friend
I will do my best to live that out loud till my time is at an end
In all things Lord be my life and breath
Keep me ever in your sight from now until my death
When I join with you in heaven I will forever sing your praise
But until that day I'll be content just to daily lift my gaze

Amen

Lord, make me a light to shine for you

To shine in the darkness and help point the way



Lord make me a fire that will never go out

A burning passion and love for all the world



Lord make me a love that knows no bounds

Like the love that poured out on the earth as you died



Lord make me a life to live for you each day

Living to serve my fellow neighbor and you



Lord make me a voice to spread your word

And to give words to those who have no voice



Lord, make me a song to sing out loud

It is my joy to give you thanks and praise



Lord make me a hunger and thirst for you

I long for your touch and yearn for your embrace



Lord make me a vessel for you

Help me let go so you may increase as I decrease



Lord make me as you will it

Help me trust in your plans



Lord please keep making, shaping, and molding me

Into the man you know I will one day be



A work under construction; impure, cracked

But a work in You; the Potter's Hand



Lord thank you for the good and bad

Leading me to where I am today



AMEN!

Lord, let me sit here for a while
Let me stay and rest in your presence
Let your mercy wash over me
And your love flood my entire being

Lord, let me sit here for a time
In silence and stillness divine
Open my eyes to see you more clearly
Open my heart to love your more dearly

Lord, let me sit here for an hour
Take my weakness and fill me with your power
Let me be content and at peace
As I decrease so you may increase

Lord, let me sit here with you right beside
You know my heart, there is nothing I can hide
In difficult times and failure let me not give in to despair
But remember there is hope and you are always there

Lord, let me sit and take in your life-giving breath
By your sacrifice you won over sin and death
You have given me much more than I deserve
So I promise to give back and use these gifts to serve

Lord, let me sit here in joy and gratitude
And appreciate the magnitude of this moment
The time I spend with you and you with me
It is in this time that I am truly free

Lord, let me sit and be present to you
To listen, look, and love
And in the silence hold me close
As I walk with you once more

Amen

Lord, guide my hands to do your will. Fill my mind with your wisdom, my soul with your perfect peace, and my heart with your eternal love. Let my life and all that I do be an offering: pleasing to you and a blessing unto others. Send your Holy Spirit upon me to fill me and to seep into every fiber of my being. Help me to open myself more fully so that I might be able to listen and respond. Help me to surrender my will and my control so I can more readily serve you and my fellow man.

Beauty so tender, a sight to behold

So delicate so sweet more precious than gold

Bringing joy to all around it

And still the short life is sad I admit

Treated right and cared for

It blooms and flourishes; a truly great reward

But like the Rose a treasure; one be warned

Handle with respect and care for every Rose has it's thorn

A symbol of joy, and a symbol of rebirth

Some of Spring's first early arrivals a source of great mirth

Reminding me of our human lives, not so different really

How similar they are it all sounds so silly

But under proper circumstances we can bloom and flourish too

And we can bring harm or joy to others; the choice is up to you

Life is short and is a precious treasure

True beauty and worth are something only God can measure

Treat all life with care and respect

For each one is sacred and hand select

That Time**


It’s Christmas time, the time that Jesus Christ was born

Look in the sky for the Bethlehem Star the morn

The house is warm and the fire beckons

Perfect with cocoa and a book I reckons

Memories of family time all together

Hugs, thanks, and joy, and laughter

Some good, some sorrow your life has cost

Though we may wander; with God we’re not lost

I don’t want anything except smiling eyes

Psalms and Proverbs are words of wise

Seasons are like life; Christmas signals new

Out with the old in me and you

Soar with the snow; unique in your life

God has his reasons even through strife

Thank you my friend for being the one

I try to pierce the grayness with sun

You are my lamp, my guide, and my blinds

I am your ears, and shoulders, and mind

As Jesus the King was servant so I shall be too

Tell me, please tell me, what you would have me do

Life’s clock is ticking constantly with no wait or stop

I want to get things done before I get to the top

The mouth speaks what the heart feels
And hidden truths are now revealed
Our words can give life or bring death
The power of God is in our very breath
What is in our hearts comes out of our mouths
We have control over what is allowed
If we are what we consume
There shouldn’t be any room
For vileness and hatred to take residence
When we show the overwhelming evidence
Of love and truth gentleness and peace
Patience, faith and prayer that doesn’t cease
This is how they know us: they know us by our love
In this we show our kinship with the Father in Heaven above
And let us not dwell on other’s faults
But seek first to find our own
And bringing judgement to a halt
We find that we have grown
Love your sister and your brother
Though they may have a different mother
There are hundreds of languages in the world
But love is universal and a smile is unfurled
They know us by the fruit we bear of peace and unity
With eyes of love striving for a world in harmony
The outside is a manifestation of what is within
Do we reflect Christ or are we soiled by sin?
We are Christ bearers light bearers
Salt and light to the ends of the earth
We are truth sharers and Armor of God wearers
We are here to bring about a time of rebirth
So my friend guard your heart and guard your tongue
So you may stand victorious over the evil one
I pray your words would give life and your life would bless
And God provide what you need no more and no less
So Speaks the Heart

Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That overcomes and transcends all things
Even death itself
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That brings me to my knees yet lifts me up
Even when I fall
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That gives me hope and joy and peace
Even in the dark
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That pursues me and seeks me out
Wherever I may go
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That heals the ***** and the lame
Even raises the dead
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That I can’t earn and don’t deserve
You give it anyway
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That finds us waiting here
Even at this hour
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That changes and arrests me
Even as it frees
Jesus thank you for this crazy love
That you would pour your very blood
To save a wretch like me
Jesus thank you for this daily bread
That satisfies and keeps me fed
Along the journey
Jesus thank you for this place of rest
And in all your goodness you richly blessed
Your precious child
Jesus thank you for the God you are
That you are always close and never far
Even in your greatness
Jesus thank you for this crazy love today
Help me show this crazy love to all I pray
Especially those in need

Amen

I am a citizen of the U S of A

I am here with something to say


To our heroes overseas

And to those who have served our country


To those who know firsthand

Of the horrors of war and what it does to a woman or man


We want you to know we are here pulling for you

We thank you for the service you do


It is because of brave people like you that we are free

Ordinary people doing the extraordinary


Everyone is special and we hold life at high regard

Here today we celebrate veterans from the army, navy, national guard


The marines, coast guard, and air force

Deeply indebted to them all of course

I ask you to hear me when I speak. Not only to listen, but to understand. My child, you are always so eager and ready to tell me what you want- and this is good; I love to hear from you and I will always listen to you. Sometimes you ask for something and I give it to you. Sometimes I make you wait or I don't give you what you wanted. You become upset or angry at me for not giving you what you want. You want me to speak to you in a loud or clear way. You must understand child that I love you too much to interrupt. I often speak in stillness and quiet. Do you know what I want? I want you to be patient: to listen. I want you to be open. I want you to trust me. I want you to just be present. I want YOU. To hear me speak all I want is for you to be quiet, open, and present in this time and this place, in the Here and Now. That is where I am. I am not a God of the past: as on Easter morning outside the tomb. Mary Magdalene was looking for me in the past, but I wasn't there. I am alive. I am not a God of the future either: do not look for me in your tomorrows. You don't know if that tomorrow will come for you. Tomorrow might be too late. I am a God of the present, a God of life, a Gift given to you each today. Be still and know that I am God. Remember Child, I love you. Just be Present to me and I will present myself to you!

Forever Yours,
God =)

Oh my soul rejoice be joyful in your King
For He is good and has created everything
Oh my soul take flight and soar above the clouds
In the air that fills your wings let go of any doubts
Rejoice in the one who made you and calls you his own
He has found favor with you and made his home
Oh my soul be still and quiet and free
It is in those places that you will find your God to be
Reach up to Heaven ascend to Him on high
Be at peace with the glorious divine sigh
But he who sits on the throne is also very near
And as I sit one thing seems quite clear
Rejoice my soul in every time and every place
Because everywhere you look is the Lord’s face
He loved you so much he died to show
That his love is real not just a show
He died so you could be set free
By his Hands and Feet nailed sin to a tree
Rejoice my soul for your God is risen
To break you out of spiritual prison
Rejoice my soul for healing in pain
Life in death and loss is gain
Sing with one clear voice
Oh my soul rejoice

Can’t seem to find the forest for the trees
Blind to what is right in front of me
Lying on a bed of leaves and life
Looking to the heavens with stoic sentinels
We sway with the changes a beautiful complex dance
Soaring high above the earth we are at once aware
Of being beyond our oneness there is unity togetherness
And yet we remain connected grounded
Each to another a patchwork quilt letting our light radiate
Letting the light penetrate and play and dance
Chasing, racing shadows tireless and inexhaustible
We are shadow and light broken and made whole
Embracing, facing our monsters rather than fleeing
Here we find the unbearable lightness of being
Have you ever heard the wolves’ chorus?
Haunting, melancholy, beautiful, and pure
Eerie and scary, but it holds some allure
Have you tasted all the colors and seen every flavor
Have you felt for something you could not possibly explain?
Tossed about like the ocean swells
A roiling turbulent sea violence chaos and confusion
Clear as through a looking glass a mirrored reflection
So too do I reflect and ponder trying hard
To dive deep below the depths with mystery cold and darkness
Looking for precious treasure long forgotten down below
Thunder crashes lightning flashes
Fire dancing across the sky
A resounding drum beat, throbbing, pulsing, and pounding
The lifeblood: heartbeat sounding
Dance to the beat of a different drum
Unique nonconforming to what the world declares this truth
Thinking feeling asking oneself not as lemmings following blind
Without questioning imminent death
We must judge, we must quest, we must seek, and we must answer
For ourselves that which is right, which is good, which is true.
To be open and free, but stay true to thyself to keep our identity
Sacrificing to help others without sacrificing our own integrity
That which makes us human, what makes us whole
The fires of hell burn hot and heavy
Earthly life is the crucible to help us be ready
Life and death both worlds apart and intimately close;
It is the perfect dichotomy. We are fire. The choice is ours.
Do we create or do we destroy?
What fire are we? What is it like?
The bonfire speaks of life’s truths:
Burning bright and hot and just as quickly passing, fading
As a shooting star streaks across the darkness
We may give warmth, light, and life
Or we may take life and consume all that is around us
So consumed we are with the world today we miss the magic of the moment
And so sometimes the smoke is thick and burns our eyes and we are blind
To that which is truly the most precious in our short lives?
Friends, family, and faith
For these three are relatively constant in time of constant flux
And help to give some meaning to the why of you and I

Mother; has a love that knows no bounds

When you need them they are always around



They live in a special place in your heart

They are present all your life through every part



Mother; she knows just what you need

Hurt or sad, scared or alone, she's a doctor or nurse indeed



Mother; shelter in the storm, star to guide the way

Whatever the case, they know exactly what to say



Mother; anchor when you're adrift, wind to fill your sails

Living though you when this earthen vessel fails



She's a teacher, a healer, a sage, and a friend

So much love and compassion, so strong through the end



Mother; a fire in our hearts, a song on our lips


Our Inspiration,

Our Hero,

Our Role Model,

Our MOM!

Bread of Life seed that dies to be reborn
You shine so bright like the sun in the morn
You blanket the heavens at night with the stars
Divine Physician come heal our scars
We are your people called by your name
By your word I let go of my guilt and shame
Your love reaches the depths of my inmost being
I lay my burdens down at your feet and it is freeing
I place my trust in you and walk across the water
I am but clay in the hands of the master potter
Keeping my eyes fixed on you I will not be afraid and sink
You are the living well from which I drink
In your Spirit my soul is alive and I am living well
You are the healing rain when I am in a dry spell
Come to me and hear me now, meet me here this day
Bless me and look kindly upon me listen while I pray
I cannot feel you near where are you hide not your face
Come now and bathe me in your love and grace
You are my breath my strength and my hope
You are my lifeline a safety rope
I look to you Oh Lord my God I need to see some sign
That you are still there and your hand is still holding mine
Renew me Lord my heart is burdened and heavy
I'm tired of running and fighting and maybe I'm ready
To start coming back so run to me as I come home still far
He'll take you back and hold you close and meet you where you are
Be at peace and come start to heal
Know that I am God and that I am real

Amen

The rich and the poor, greatest and least
Are seated together to enjoy the feast
Here at the table of plenty the water never runs dry
You’ve been invited to the wedding of the Most High
His blood becomes the most precious wine
His body becomes food; most divine
Joyful music fills the air
And suddenly we become aware
Christ unites himself to us in the most intimate way:
He enters every part of us and dwells therein today.
To be so close to this purest form of love
Is a little bit of heaven come down from above
And, once exposed to such energy, it must be expressed
To create new life in the flesh and in the soul.
So often, we try to put other things in a God shaped hole
We are left empty and wanting more
Our vision is clouded, but God came to restore.
True love conquers fear, and death loses its power
It is a safe shelter and, forever, your strong tower.
We have this crazy love that transcends both time and space
And from this love; we receive mercy and grace.
The love of God is greater far
Than the sands in the sea and every star.
He looks at us with warm, bright eyes,
I pray that we would soon realize:
That love conquers all, not war or hate
And that we would act accordingly before it’s all too late.

Sunrise

Rub your sleep filled eyes it’s time again to rise
Stretch and yawn and fill your lungs and put a smile on
It is dark a new day is about to come in
All is quiet for now as the world slowly continues its spin
One by one the birds wake and begin their morning song
In a little while the whole world will start to sing along
Horizon tinted in orange red and gold
An infinite number of possibilities grand adventures untold
All the earth seems to stand still for a moment, frozen in time
What a grand event this is and it doesn’t cost a dime

You never said it would be easy

You never said life would be fair

But You said You'd never leave me

You said You'd always be right there

And when I stumble on life's road

Lord You catch me when I fall

When the weight is heavy and I'm burdened by the load

You help me and You answer when I call

I am weak and can't do much on my own

But You said I can do all things though You who gives me strength

And whatever I do, wherever I go, I know I am never alone

With You by my side I know I can go to great lengths

Be careful little one what you speak
It can make mountains crumble and empower the weak
Be vigilant of your tongue and practice control
For words have the power to pierce the soul
For good or ill they may be used
And poor judgement finds us accused
But my dear words are so much more than pain
In the desert place they can be as life giving rain
They may paint a beautiful story reveal mystery untold
They can take a person so shy to be brave and bold
They can dance across the mind and page
They can calm a soul and seas and wind that rage
They can love and laugh they can forget and forgive
They have given sight to the blind and made the dead live
Words are as tools. They can be used for building up or breaking down
They can put a smile on someone's face and turn their day around
Or they can hurt someone and cause bitterness and sorrow
Try to make it right before today becomes tomorrow
You see words are many things to many people
They come in all shapes and sizes and in a way
Sometimes I find words in a church with a steeple
Other times I just listen and write what I feel God say
I'm not perfect I know and I've a long way to go
But I try to be wise and speak truth to be kind and not uncouth
So please forgive me my lapse of good sense
And know that I learned from my error hence

Poem before Confession


Hello God, how are you?

I want to be made anew.

Because you died scorned and shamed,

I stand scot-free because you took the blame.

When they wrote “Amazing Grace” they had to be thinking about confessions

I really want to say that I have learned all my lessons,

But I really haven’t; I still do these bad things.

Still, because of You, my heart sings.

I am a sinner throughout all time

And I try to praise and thank you in this rhyme.

Though we may have been forgiven; our sins forgotten,

You are true and clean when I feel so rotten.

But that can change in the blink of an eye.

With one act being Your dying.

And as I prepare for confession I write this,

Soon enough, regret will turn into bliss.

Red is for the apple: so shiny and bright,
or the red of a ruby: wow, that's a cool sight

Orange is for the pumpkin: so big and so round,
or the orange of a tiger: an agile cat pound for pound

Yellow is for the hot summer sun on your back,
or the sign on the road that reads: Dead End! Turn Back!

Green is for the pine needles: so rich and so sweet,
or the green of the grass: alive beneath my feet

Blue is for the sky: so endless and vast,
or the sadness for things that happened in the past

Purple is for the kite: that whistles as it flies by,
or the purple of mountains: towering in the sky

Lord help me to right and keep me in your sight;

Today, forever and always.

Lord make your light be shone and let it be made known;

Today, forever and always.


To all people and nations we will spread the good news;

Today, forever and always.

Give shelter to all in need and care for the abused;

Today, forever and always.


Give hope, love, and peace and get down on our knees;

Today, forever and always.

Power is there in the act of prayer;

Today, forever and always.


We have a friend in the one up above;

Today, forever and always.

Each day we have is showered with love;

Today, forever and always.


So for today forever and always we are watched for all days.

Today... Forever... and Always!



AMEN!

What is it that I see?

When I look into your eyes

What is it that I feel?

When I catch you looking at me

Something I find vaguely familiar

Something straining at the edge of memory

Yet I can’t quite place where I know it

Feels like an old friend

At one time we were inseparable

But time and age has changed this

What is it that you have?

That I admire so much
  

A child-like energy,

A love and passion like no other,

Seeing life in the eyes of youth;

That indefatigable exuberance

Oh to be young and alive once more…

The world and its joys and sorrows

How much more vibrant and radiant the colors

Than the rainbow we see sometimes

Colors of youth, life yet to live


What is it that I hear?

Carried by the winds and whispered in my ear

What is it that I taste?

Kissed by the summer sun and caressed by the gentle breeze

Lulled to sleep in the sweet liqueur of your loving embrace

The world once, a lovely place

Full of love and a lust for life

All that remains; but a fragile memory


And sadness while deep, my heart growing dark

A light dimly glows in the depths of my mind.

There you are still; my memory of you

And as I look at the world I am reminded:


The sun is your love warming icy heart

Forever faithful, you watch from on high

Your face is the face of a little child

Young and bright so full of life, of love

Your love is the mother singing her baby to sleep

Even the seasons talk of life.


Winter comes and all seems dead

Cold and empty, barren, lonely

It lasts so long all hope seems lost

When winter finally ends...

Mustering a last hurrah before it has to relinquish

Its death grip on the world and give way to---


The birth of spring!

The spring of hope, the spring of life,

Joy and hope rising up with the entire world

As is the way with many sad times in life


So when the world is cold and dark

I remember that spring is going to come

And when I look at all life around me

I see parts of you in everything and everyone.

Lord, we all have our demons, but you can make us clean
In temptation help me open my heart and eyes to see
Your presence and the goodness that lies within
That you would fill our needs helping us not to sin
It is so hard for me to accept both good and bad
To embrace this light and dark with everything I have
The flesh is not bad but the picture is altered
And, as a result our perception has faltered
You came to call sinners to restore us by your glory
We are yours Lord: a special part of the story
You bind the wounded, heal the sick and lame
Eyes, ears and hearts are opened at the sound of your name
You are Lord over our life and our death
Keep us close to you and, when the time has come,
Bring us home to you when we take our final breath
To live forever in fullness and love singing praises to the son

Forever is the longest time that there is
That's how long it seems to take until you're a ****
We are friends forever and a day
That's how long this bond will stay
But you can pass the time so quick when you're having fun
That is no problem when you have number two and one
When I'm feeling blue you make my day so happy
You get me really nice when I'm feeling snappy
You're having fun and you got some time to spare
When you're enjoying life you have no place to care
Sitting back relaxing allowing the time to pass
As you walk barefoot you are tickled by the grass
Forever never comes 'cuz forever doesn't end
You can't change forever or make it bend
Have the power to make life enjoyable
Then at times being you can be annoyable
I see a smile start to creep along your face
Even if the prey was lost don't give up the chase
Make the choices to your life's great path
One is good and the other bad now you do the math
We can't make your choices but we can help you
We can't force you, but we can tell you what to do
I couldn't have a better friend if I lived a million years
Wrote a million poems or shed a million tears
Thank you for helping me to see
Because of you I am a whole new me

Lord I stumble; I fall and lose my way

Lord like sheep I tend to wander astray



Lost in the darkness; alone and afraid

I said “I am sorry” “Help me” I prayed

In the vast silence you heard my desperate plea

And there in an instant you were there with me

You offered your hand and helped me stand

You looked at me and softly smiled. Why I don’t understand

“Child, I love you always. I’m here by your side for all days

Wherever you go whatever you do I will always love you”



I know I make mistakes and do the things that are wrong

Walking slippery slopes and blinded all along



Lost in the darkness; alone and afraid

I said “I am sorry” “Help me” I prayed

In the vast silence you heard my desperate plea

And there in an instant you were there with me

You offered your hand and helped me stand

You looked at me and softly smiled. Why I don’t understand

“Child, I love you always. I’m here by your side for all days

Wherever you go whatever you do I will always love you”



Guiding me along the road to tread the path you trod

Send your angels to keep me; be my stronghold oh God



Lost in the darkness; alone and afraid

I said “I am sorry” “Help me” I prayed

In the vast silence you heard my desperate plea

And there in an instant you were there with me

You offered your hand and helped me stand

You looked at me and softly smiled. Why I don’t understand

“Child, I love you always. I’m here by your side for all days

Wherever you go whatever you do I will always love you”



Lord be the lamp for my feet and the light on my path

Anoint my head with oil and guide me with your staff



Lost in the darkness; alone and afraid

I said “I am sorry” “Help me” I prayed

In the vast silence you heard my desperate plea

And there in an instant you were there with me

You offered your hand and helped me stand

You looked at me and softly smiled. Why I don’t understand

“Child, I love you always. I’m here by your side for all days

Wherever you go whatever you do I always will and always have loved you”

The sun peeks through my window

I yawn and stretch and wake up slow

Get ready for a new day of adventure and surprise

Hear the birds greet the brightening sky

A smile on my face and a song in my heart

A good day and a great start

A day a work and a day spent with family and friend

Talkin' 'bout life, love, and good times by the day's end

The sun is slowly sinking in the sky; setting eart on fire

The air cools and the colors inspire

Soon the sun is asleep and with it the women and kids

A yawn escapes, a wolf howls, and heavy are they lids

The day is through, a new one will greet you soon

You fall asleep under the blanket of stars and the moon

Before you know it you are roused from sleep

By soft rays of light, the golden wamth penetrates deep

I thank God and look forward to another glorious day

From life's first cry to final breath
In my living daily until my hour of death
You chose me and formed me with love and affection
Wonderfully and marvelously made with no exception
From my head to my hands to my little happy feet
I am the only one of me. I am perfectly unique.
You gave me eyes to seek and a heart to hear
You gave me a burning love to drive out fear
You gave me parents to love me and to teach
They taught me to pray and challenged me to reach
They raised and cared for me the best that they knew how
How lucky I am I'm starting to realize now
You gave me a home to laugh, play, and learn
How love and affection I never had to earn
There were times I was lost and couldn't see the light
I'd cry myself to sleep sometimes but I never left your sight
You were always there for me if I only looked around
I could run and I could hide, but I was always found
You gave me hope and a future; you gave me a chance
To live, to make this world better, maybe find romance
To share my love with another: the biggest thing from one so small
You gave me the gift of Life. The greatest gift of all!

Mercy and Healing

Drink from the fountain of mercy
Be washed in the waters of love
Where the chains fall away and you are free
The sun giving warmth and light from above

Come to the table of goodness and plenty
Partake in the great wedding feast
Where blessings run over and never are empty
All are now equal no greatest no least

In the great light of love there is mercy and healing
Joy and peace will be together once more
When we can move past the hurt we’ve been feeling
We find the forgiveness we’ve been searching for

He bled and died from the wounds we inflict
His ultimate sacrifice the cost of our sin
The greatest act of love and grace he chose to depict
And as he was murdered they were all forgiven

Jesus forgave his killers so why can’t I let go
Of a burden that is not even mine to bear
Lord forgive my un-forgiveness and help me to grow
Remind me that in every situation you are waiting there

Cover me Lord in your loving embrace
Wash me with your precious blood
Fill me with mercy, healing and grace
Drown me in your Most Holy flood

Sing to my soul the sweetest note
Burn your word into my mind
Move me as I read what you wrote
That where I seek you, my heart may find

A place of profound peace and refreshing sleep
A place of great joy where it is forever content
A place of restoring grace and where mercy runs deep
A place where broken things are mended you are present

I ask this and all things with great confidence in your name
To the one who was and is and ever will remain
For we know you hear our cries and hasten to us when we call
But Your will be done not mine for you are Lord of all

Amen

Mary, in your life there was great sorrow and pain. From the very beginning you knew it was going to be a long hard road. Seven sorrows you endured during the life of your son. You bore them all with fortitude and divine grace. The number seven is for fulfillment and perfection and it is through our sufferings and trials that we are shaped, refined, and perfected. Not once did you give up or give in to despair; rather through grace and faith, you remained steadfast. How your heart must break for your children, Mary. There is so much pain, violence, and hate in our world today. Grant a deep peace and love in my soul Oh Blessed Mother, that I may do what I can to console your sorrowful heart.

Amen

She is a cutie, a real American Beauty
Watch her as she walks along
Pulled in by her Siren's Song
Smell the flowers in her hair
Smile my way and I'm lighter than air
Dancing in the window by the light of the moon
One look at her and I'm about to swoon

Flowing so gracefully; "My God, she's Divine!"
One day I'll be hers and she will be mine
Dressed head to toe in garment of purest white
You can bet I'll be soaring higher than a kite

I know life doesn't work like the fairy tales say
No magic, not perfect in every little way
As long as we're together I promise we'll make it through
Take it moment by moment, take it day by day. That's what I'll do:

To be by your side through every little thing.
But more than to give you diamonds or ring,
I want to give you peace. And also from this boy:
To love and respect you and bring you joy!

From me to you, my heart is aflame,
Lord, how I pray that you feel the same.

Close your eyes; sit in silence and in still
Empty yourself: be open, free, and calm
Watch, wait, listen: patiently let it fill
Until you find in your mind no qualm

Be alert and aware of what it is you feel
To know your soul is the goal, please do not dismiss
Define the lines between what is false and what is real,
Of all that is important, always remember this:

Take a moment now and then to search for who you are,
Know your heart and know yourself, be the best you can
Know this and know with confidence you can go so far
Try to see and bring out the best in every woman child and man

Hello, dear child. It is I, your Father.
I love you. Always and forever I love you and will never stop loving you. At times, like sheep, you wander and go astray. In danger you cry out. And I am there by your side to take you back safe and sound. Yes! I would leave the flock to find you and keep you safe. Have I not said I'd leave 99 to find the lost one? Would I not rejoice in a lost one returning home? Did the father not celebrate and run to his prodigal son when the son that was lost and spiritually dead came back? Amen, I say to you, I'll take you back with open arms. When you are weary and tired come to me and I will give you rest and strength. When you are scared or alone, run to me and in the shelter of my arms I'll give you peace and comfort. And if the way is dark, the path unclear; call out to me. Pray. Do not be afraid to ask and reach out. Does it not say "Seek and you shall find, ask and you shall receive, knock and the door shall be opened? Yes if you seek me with all your heart, you will find I am there with you". Amen I say to you, "Trust in Me. Do not worry about the things you need in life". Do not fret about the food you need to stay alive or about the clothes you need for your body. I will provide. See? How the little birds are provided for? How much more are you worth than the birds! Remember child: I am only a breath away. Remember child: how much I love you. Stretching out my arms and dying for you. I love you. Never forget that! I am your Father.
Love,
Daddy

It was grace that found us together
God used me to help through stormy weather
When your lives were changed about a year ago
My gifts may have helped, but I was a tool you know
I needed a friend, you an ear and someone to care
If we need to talk will we be there
Words are past me, but a smile steals across my face
This is what you might call saving grace

Spirit of the Living God
Breath of Heaven, holy nod
Settle on my soul tonight
In your presence I delight
Paraclete and God’s great guide
May the gates of Heaven be opened wide
Teach me how to act and speak
To speak life to the dying and give strength to the weak
My heart is open my mind is free
My soul is still and I am eager to see
The message of love for the world I bear
To plainly show just how much you care
Holy Spirit rest now and burn hot within
Set me ablaze and let the spreading begin
Live inside me fill and overflow
Lead me as you will be with me as I go
Under your sight may I grow in wisdom and grace
That one day I would be honored by seeing Jesus’ face
You take us out beyond the seas and land
To a place of faith and trust to find our savior’s hand
Beyond our understanding to see with the faith of a child
That when we did you looked at us and smiled
You move as the wind sometimes quiet and still
Were I at sea on a boat, my sails you would fill
You are water freely flowing; raining down upon the earth
You are joy and laughter comfort and mirth
Of the Holy Trinity you are least understood
And so many don’t give you the time and reverence we should
Flood our lives with your presence Oh Holy One Of God Most high
May we never have too much and may the well never run dry
Come to us Oh Spirit Divine
Transform the gifts of wheat and wine
Bear our gifts to Heaven and place them at Jesus feet
That they return as blood to drink and flesh to eat
Through this greatest mystery of love
May we join our voices with the angels above
To praise the one to took on flesh
And showed us love even beyond death
That we may one day rise with Him again
To praise and glorify Him and forever say Amen