Thank you Lord for the gift of your love, and beauty, your power and your humility especially in the blessed sacrament of the most Holy Eucharist. It is here that you hide both in plain sight and reveal your divinity and humanity in a most profound and personal way. It is here that you meet us and here that you greet us as we fall on our knees to pray. You give us the sun to welcome us at dawn and send angels to guard at the end of the day. There is always something new and timely every time I am before you in this place. And every time I come away with a brand new look at your face. I look forward to the times we have together with such anticipation and afterwards am filled with jubilation! Help me cling to you, help me sing to you. In troubled seasons help me hold fast, and in stressful moments help me to relax. In sadness I ask for peace and the strength to rejoice, when I have a difficult decision help me to discern and make a good choice. We pray to you, we bring all we are to you. Our joys, sorrows, longings, praises and petitions. Give us eyes to see you, ears to hear you, a mind to seek you and a heart to love you. Help us also to see, hear, seek, and love others as you do for all of them and for each of us.

We ask this and all things in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.

Amen!

Life is a journey on a path or a road,

Bearing the weight of our sin's heavy load.

Long days and even longer nights

So many miles and no end in sight.

"Failure" "give up" your sins seem to call

I stumble and collapse from the weight of it all.



The darkness creeps and in and silence is deafening,

Lying there cold and alone fearing God's reckoning

At the bottom of the pit I hear someone say:

"Come, follow me, and I'll show you the way!

I've been here before and I've learned the way out"

He said, "Son, pray with me. It works; do not doubt"



So we sat and we talked, we laughed and we cried

We prayed for a while, I felt better inside.

A feeling swept over; brought me down to my knees

Slowly I felt a soft, quiet breeze.

Strong gentle hands on my shoulders with love

Warming, glowing; like the sun high above.

Resting his hands there another moment he said

"Rejoice! You are alive, no longer dead!

Rise to your feet, go now: be strong,

And remember what you have learned from this day on."



In a flash of white light the man did depart

Remembering his words, I held them close to my heart.

I whispered a "Thank You" and walked along

Singing to myself a happy-like song.

Smooth was the journey, for a time

The peace and ease was so sublime



Yet what should I now come across

But open water too deep and far to cross.

A small boat harbored on the rocky coast:

The thing that I would need the most



Miles at sea; moving slow and lazy

Hours of nothing, the air grows hazy.

Lids are heavy, body is stone

Taken by sleep. It's will against my own.

I awake to see the night purest black

Lightning blinds and thunder crack!

The water roils and the wind loudly screams,

Pinching myself: this is no dream!



The boat pitches madly I am thrown into the ocean,

My screams are drowned and futile are my motions.

My eyes are getting dim, the world fading fast

"Is this it? Is this the end at last?"



Something grabs me strong and steady

Pulling me to safety when things got heady.

The storm raged on all around

They hold me close till I settle down.



"Why do you tremble? Why do you fear?

Take heart! Have faith! I am always here.

All this is mine and under my command

I will keep you safe, but you must also understand:

Sometimes the storms I will call to cease,

And, at times, it is you I will calm and give you peace."



Through the fog, a lighthouse beacon shone bright,

Guiding me to safety out of the darkest night.

The light of love, of hope, and prayer

Although ever present, I'm not always aware:

Of the countless faithful people who have walked the path You trod

And who, everyday help me in MY walk with GOD!

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

Sacred Heart of Jesus your heart was pierced and broken
We who slumber will finally be awoken
At the end of days when time has run aground
The dead will live and the lost will be found
Sacred Heart of Jesus water and blood freely poured
By your sacrifice our union was restored
For one without sin died to save
From His death it was life that He gave
Sacred Heart of Jesus fill me with your graces
Reveal your presence to me in the secret places
Fill me with your love and kindness
Take the scales from my eyes remove my blindness
Help me turn my heart to your most sacred one
Remind me when I fail that I’m a work in progress not yet done
Sacred Heart of Jesus full of mercy and love
Look with favor on your child as you reign from above
Sacred Heart of Jesus be my hope and peace
That nations lay down their weapons that war and violence may cease
I pray for holiness and wisdom, patience to do your will
To step out in faith into darkness and trust you have me still
Sacred Heart of Jesus pour forth you love like the summer rain
Let the seeds of faith open and flourish and always remain
Sacred Heart of Jesus take hold of my heart
Enter in fully and come to invade every part
So I am no longer me, but you that lives within me
Break the chains that steal me away somehow set me free
Sacred Heart of Jesus take me into your presence here
Overflow with love and drive out all fear
Sacred Heart of Jesus seek me now tonight
Sacred Heart of Jesus live within me and let me radiate your light. Amen

Hush now my child dry your little eyes
The one who made you hears your little cries
Hush now my darling be not afraid
For you are safe and in his hands you are laid
Hush now my little one dream your sweet dreams
His angels keep close though they are unseen
Hush now my baby rest your sweet head
For he is awake while you sleep in bed
Sleep now my child so safe and so sound
Can you feel our love and blessings that abound
Wherever you go he is close at hand
Someday my baby I pray you'll understand
One day you'll be grown and we'll be so proud
Every night by your bed on our knees with heads bowed
We prayed for you in every moment that came
For joy, blessings, and that in his arms you'd remain
Close your eyes and take a breath let sweet sleep descend
Let your worries fall away with the day's end

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

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

Foundation Meditation


When building a new house, the first thing that happens once the plot of land is surveyed and excavated is the planning and lying down of the foundation. The foundation is the base and has to support the weight of the house. It needs to be strong and able to serve its purpose for a long time while taking abuse from the weight of the house and conditions below ground. The foundation could be the difference between a house that is safe and strong for many years and a house that is dangerous to the people living inside.

The foundation of a house is hidden underground. Although it is not noticed or seen, it is an essential part of the house that we appreciate so much. Without a solid or stable foundation to support and anchor it, the house would not be as strong or secure. A building cannot stand (well) without a (firm) foundation. The Bible tells us that: “We are temples of the Lord.” Some of us may remember a song we heard as young children during Vacation Bible School or on sing-along cassettes about two men and their houses which illustrates the necessity for a firm foundation. One built his house among large rocks high on a cliff, while the other built his house on the sand. The house on the sand was destroyed and swept away when the wind and waves got strong, but the house on the rocks could not be reached by the waves and the wind could not move it from its secure place among the rocks.

When we meet people along the road of our lives, we have the chance to share Jesus with them whether through words or deeds or faith. Sharing Jesus may include but is not limited to: giving a lecture, having a discussion, or preaching. No. Sharing Jesus could be a hug, a smile, opening a door, helping someone in any way either big or small, listening, giving your time, or saying a prayer for someone or something. There are so many ways to share Jesus! Every time we do something to share God with everyone we meet, we are building a foundation and potentially creating (or helping to create) another temple of the Lord. Like the foundations used in houses, that while underground and unseen are essential to even begin to build and later to support and secure so the structure stays strong and firm, so too are the times we share Jesus with others we meet in our lives. The thing we did may have built or helped to build a foundation in Christ and they too may do likewise. Just because we may not see the impact we had, or perhaps there is no impact at all, does not mean we have failed. In these times we pray: “God, grant me the courage to accept the things I cannot change, the serenity to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.”

God has his reasons for what happens even though we may not like, or know, or understand why. For this, and all things in life, pray. Pray. Pray. Never stop praying. Don’t be afraid to ask. Ask often. It is said: “Seek and you will find, ask and you shall receive, knock and the door shall be opened. For anyone who seeks will find, anyone who asks shall receive, and anyone who knocks the door shall be opened.” Listen. Make sure to listen. He will speak, but he will not interrupt. He is patient and will wait for you to stop. Pray for wisdom, guidance, courage, strength, faith, hope, love. Ask Him to open our hearts and see with His eyes. Help us to love like you. Help us to be humble and remind us always; it is not about us, it’s about you. Anything we may have done or accomplished was not us, but you in us. And always Lord: Your Will Be Done. Not our will or what we want, but yours!

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

These are the things I love

Running through the meadow in fields of wildflowers
The sun shining bright and gentle spring showers
The sound of waves gently kissing the beach
At night when the stars seem so close to reach
The warm summer stirring my hair
Knowing always my family will be there

These are some things I love

Fresh baked bread and homemade apple pie
A long happy day concluded with a tired sigh
Friends that are forever and love that is pure and true
Spending time with those I love and when I think of you
Being there for those in need and ones that are suffering
To take a bad day make it happy and the joy we bring

These are some things I enjoy

To lie on my back and watch the stars at night
Sunrise and sunset the glorious sight
To know in my heart what my eyes cannot see
Spirit soaring in flight with the eagles so wild and free
A cup of hot chocolate on a cold winter day
The blessings it brings when children obey

These are some things I adore

Take a moment now and then
To make a list you can use when
Joy in life seems hard to come along
Sing to yourself a happy song
If you try real hard to don a grin
I think you’ll see changes slowly begin
A little smile is a potent thing you know
Filling all around you with a warm and radiant glow

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 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

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!

Dawn is breaking o'er the earth
This is a season of great rebirth
All of life sings to glorify creation
Every rock tree and creature, every nation
Come! Awake from your great slumber
Open your eyes to a new kind of wonder
Lift your head and rise from your bed
Give thanks to the Son who keeps us fed
A new page a new chapter a new story to tell
It is an end, yes, but a beginning as well
Morning has come a new day is here
Its loving rays driving off the fog of fear
Those in darkness have seen a great light
The faith of the blind restores their sight
Look! See how the Lord, with a smile, beams
Blesses us and gives to us sweet dreams?
I sing for joy and sometimes, for joy, I weep
When I recall the promise that you keep
How you poured your love into my soul
And made a diamond from this lump of coal
And I remember Lord, in my brokenness
In my pain and shame and great distress
You love me still, wearing no disguises
And even on the days of gray
The sun still rises!

Into the endless waters I dive down deep
In this ocean of mercy, His face, I seek
Over mountain and valley, plain and hill
I have travelled and will travel further still
To finally find what I've searched for so long
And I will continue until I can't go on
I am lost in the sea of God's great grace
I am awash with the love that covers me
I am found in the arms of His embrace
And was lost, but now I'm found and free
To understand the mystery completely
Is to fill a small hole with the entire sea
Still, I swim on, all caught up in the flood
Still, I am covered by His most precious blood
Still, I keep walking, I keep pressing ahead
Strengthened in the life by which I am fed

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 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!

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! :)

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

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.

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

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

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

There is something about a garden
Something so real and so divine
A secret place, a silent sanctuary
It is a feeling difficult to define

There is something about a garden
That leads my heart to prayer
A place of safety to where I run
And where I find hope in despair

There is something about a garden
And being surrounded by creation
Singing songs of praise to God
The creator and author of salvation

There is something about a garden
That feels like mercy's ocean
And like a crashing wave upon the shore
I'm swept away with great devotion

There is something about a garden
That fills me with such great delight
Filled with awe and greatest wonder
On the wings of the dawn my soul takes flight

There is something about a garden
That I can almost see the hand of God
The foretaste of Heaven on the Earth
We walk where the angels have trod

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!

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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

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, I don't know where to begin. Life has thrown me a crazy curveball right now and I'm feeling a little anxious about it. I know that this is supposed to be a time of joy, celebration and thanksgiving, but I haven't been feeling it quite so much. I know there are lots of things to be joyful and thankful for: friends, family, my faith, food, water, clothing, shelter, a good job, being alive, being able to see a sunrise or sunset and the list goes on. Thank you for these Lord, and please help me always be mindful of the many blessings you have given me in my life!

Lord, you are the Prince of Peace. Right now, I could use some peace of mind, body and spirit in this crazy world.
You are the King of the Universe and all creation; help me rest in the knowledge that everything is under your command. You are in control.
You are the Divine Physician, healer of body and mind. Please Lord, heal what ails me physically and cast out any fear or doubt with your perfect love.

In the meantime, help me find my strength and comfort in You. Help me carry this cross of mine and, by it, help me to become more holy, more empathetic to those who are also in need of Your Comfort. Walk with me Lord on this road I am on and, if necessary, carry me.

Sometimes it's hard to see you, and sometimes it seems you are far away. Give me the grace to see with eyes of faith and seek you and find you all around me in big and small ways. But you say: "I know the plans I have for you. Plans to prosper you and not harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future. You will call on me and pray to me and I will listen to you. You will seek me, and you will find me when you seek me with all your heart". (Jeremiah 29: 11-13)

Help me see you in someone who smiles at me as they pass by, the joy that comes in a walk outside on a nice fall day, the incredible beauty of a sunrise or sunset, on a good day with little pain, or having the strength and endurance for a long day and still feeling good afterwards.

Lord, I trust you. Help me trust you in this too and lean on the support and encouragement of my friends, family, spouse, church, and most importantly, You my Lord God. Please help me make a speedy and full recovery, so I can get back to the great work that you have so blessed and gifted me to be able to do. Help me continue to find joy in the job and strength for the journey. Bless my work Lord, that it may be a blessing for others and a blessing for you that others might change lives and hearts for the better and bring people closer to you!

AMEN

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

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.

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 =)

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

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

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!

I believe in love everlasting
I believe in love that never dies
And I believe love is what I see
In your eyes

I believe in love stronger than death
I believe love is an eternal spark
I believe it is of God's very breath
And love will lead you through the dark

I believe love can take our breath away
I believe that it's more than enough
I believe it hurts, but it's worth it anyway
I believe in a little thing called love

I believe someone so loved me
He came for me, oh He bled for me
The way He loved so perfectly
It's what I long for so desperately

I believe in love that is not bound
To the ways of the world in which we live
I believe in love we'll find common ground
When we learn to take and learn and give

I believe that love is a great mystery
That we may never fully understand
But I believe in time we'll come to see
As we take this journey hand in hand

For I believe in love everlasting
I believe in love that never dies
And I believe that love is what I see
When e'er I look into your eyes

Lord, how good it is that we are here! How wonderful that we should have the chance to glimpse your power and majesty. Here we are at the summit on the mountain of God. Our souls soar free with the eagles so high above the earth. We are awestruck and fall to our knees so afraid and unworthy. Softly, you call us and bring us back to our feet. Whenever we see you up here, we can't help but be transformed by the encounter; by our mountaintop experience. How good it is that we are here Lord! We want to stay up here with you forever right now. You know that we can't, at least not right now. Soon enough, we have to come down from the heights. Sometimes you lead us to the depths to test us. Do we trust you? Will we turn to you? Do we find our anchor, hope, and strength in you? Sometimes you call us to go into the world and share with our neighbor what we have gained. We are called to show them love; show them your love and to testify to our transformation.

Lord, help us to remember that you are God of the Hills and Valleys, good times and bad, sickness and health. You are the Lord of Life. You are the Lord of our lives. We love you Lord. Help us please to remember that you are in control and that you have plans to prosper and help us. Help us remember how much you love us; both now and forever. How good it is that we are here Lord!

AMEN!

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!

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

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, 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

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.