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

Lord there is beauty in the Ultimate Sacrifice
You my God paid our salvation’s price
And though I don’t deserve it you died
Because of your sacrifice the SMT has cried
Let us all be witnesses to you Oh God
Many take you for granted and I also nod
As I think about it, I see how blind I’ve been
My eyes are still veiled and I think when?
Lord let me be at peace like a hand on my shoulder
I’ve been bold, but not enough; I want to be bolder
If the tears don’t come, let it be my heart and soul
There is an emptiness in my heart and you alone can fill that hole
I know you’re out there so send me a sign
May it be the grace of a hand or the might of a line
I have given and given, but I don’t seem to receive
Lord, you’ve shown me miracles, now let me believe
Lord thank you for my gift of words and love
Cleanse and renew me from the rain up above
Come Holy Spirit, come work through me today
You gave your life, I give my all away
While I have breath I will not complain
I ask not just tonight, but forever this feeling remain
My hand is feverishly writing for the first time in a while
I take this as a sign from the Holy Spirit’s personal file
The time is near for things to come, the feeling is good
You spoke to me Lord and since then I understood
The angels praise you above while we praise below
As I look upon the Bread of Life, the Holy Host
I can’t come to think of what….

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

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

Wake up in the morning get ready for school
Excited because learning is really cool
We have music and reading and arts and crafts
Painting and science are such a blast
Writing our own story is hard but fun
Feel a sense of accomplishment when we are done
We talk about history and current events
We work with money and it makes cents (sense) haha
We get our nails done and makeup and hair
We help each other out and show we care
We play games like cards and bingo
And before we know it, it’s time to go
But don’t be sad, we’ll see you real soon
Tomorrow we’ll hum another happy tune

Seasons change, sunny skies turn to rain
Joy and laughter turn to heartache and pain
But, sure as the seasons are bound to change
There is one thing that is forever the same
The Love that God has never falters or ceases
Even when our lives are falling to pieces
Winter will yield to Spring, and Summer now will Fall
And we find ourselves swept on by time's relentless crawl
Things of this world are temporary, our lives: fleeting
And yet, in good and bad, our hearts keep beating
Not all that glitters is true and pure
Traps are disguised to hold allure
But his love will endure, his hope will secure
And, in our faith we are assured:
This too shall pass. And in this way
We can move forward day by day
To seek and ask and knock and pray
To live our lives and hear you say
"Well done my good and faithful one.
You've run the race and now you're done.
Well done my child, welcome home,
It gives me joy to see how you've grown.
Seasons will change and time will pass,
But my love for you will always last.
My love for you never falters or ceases
So much that, on the cross, I loved you to pieces."

Lord, in your ultimate wisdom, you have given us seasons in our lives that are reflected in creation. We go through dry or hard times in a desert. We feel that spring and relief will never come. Help us to lean on you and the strength you give us to make it through and see the light and life once again. Like nature's seasons, the seasons in our life are also temporary, both the good times and the bad times. Remind us of this Lord and be with us. You have made the seasons to be in such a way that we can appreciate them because we have the other. Light and Dark, Good and Bad, Spring and Fall, Summer and Winter, Heaven and Hell. There is a divine balance and symmetry which is so beautiful Lord. Thank you for this. Finally, Lord, we implore you, remind us that when nothing else seems constant, You are the one constant. Let us rest in that certainty and in your unfailing love always Lord. Amen.

I love you Lord I must confess
That so sinning still you bless
The grace you freely give
Your death so I could live
I don't deserve such love and care
But even when I push you away, still you are there
I want to love you like I say I do
Like I know I do
But in my humanity i struggle against the truth
I love the light but the dark is comforting or at least more familiar
Even the night is as bright as the day
There is nothing that you can't see
You also see deep into my heart and you know what lies there
There is a burning fire hot and alive with love for you and all of your creation
I would love to be set ablaze so I could start a fire the whole world over
Even now with darkness in and around my heart you have given me a joy, a love, and a faith that burns bright and hot and steady and touches other people and I am so grateful
Continue to be with me Lord this day and every hour of every day for the rest of my life
Never let me go Lord
Hold me to you and wrap me in your embrace
Let your will be done in me that I could be like a lighthouse for someone who is lost in the darkness
Keep your promise always Lord
Thank you for keeping your promises!
Amen.

We are seeking signs and wonders
We want to be moved by miracles
Believing only in what we can see
To be awed and amazed
To be dazzled by displays
We came for the show
But we set our sights too low
The real change is just below the surface
Where we find a higher calling and purpose
It cuts through the sound and the fury
To peace, silence, and without worry
It's the quiet whisper of the wind
It's the understanding between friends
It's the hope when you're up against the wall
It's the peace that covers it all
As a seed beneath the soil,
So much growth and change unseen:
A God who works in subtle ways
Can ever surprise us for all days

See this Holy Family
Bound by grace and love
Rooted by faith and peace
Mirror of the Trinity
Expressed in human entity
Stuff of legends and of dreams
But to trust and to obey
To pack up and come away
Spending years in fear and flight
On the run and taking flight
Full of grace and every blessing true
No stranger to hardship and sorrow too
To know this Holy Family
Is to know from whence you came
To know this Holy Family
Is to know your truest name
You are part of this great family
Set apart as a daughter or son
You are part of this great family
With room enough for everyone
It can give you purpose
It can help you find meaning
It can be a place you belong
We were not made to be alone
It is here that love makes a home
Together, we are family strong

Standing in the blazing light of your love
Streaming down from the Heavens high above
It casts a great shadow long behind
And, in the light of your glory, I will find
The warm rays penetrate the skin
And from without and from within
They are bringing me to life again
I can believe things will be alright
As I stand in the fire and the light

Kneeling at the foot of the Most Holy Cross
For thought and speech I am at a loss
As I tremble and shudder and quake
I know there must be some mistake
I am overpowered by the magnitude
Overwhelmed with remorse and gratitude
From the base flows a river of water and blood
Overcome by the waters of mercy and love
I emerge from the depths in garments white
Bathed in a new more radiant light
As I hide in the shadow of the Cross of Christ
I see I stand inside the fullness of light realized

Little children are taught that sharing is caring
The weight of troubles Jesus is gladly bearing
For, when two share the work, the load is light
And together things often turn out all right
Jesus took bread, blessed it and broke it
And gave each of his friends a little bit
He said "This is my body broken and shared
This is my blood poured out; wounds repaired
Do such as this in memory of me
Share with all whom you meet"
Share your faith and share your bread
Do this and you, yourself, will be fed
I've heard that we aren't truly living
At least not until we are truly giving
Jesus gave himself body and blood
Gave his life freely for us out of pure love
He gave his life that we might have life
On the third day, Jesus rose from the grave
I sing praise for my God who is mighty to save
Sharing brings joy to the heart of the giver
Let it wash over you like a mighty rushing river
Live in the light that never passes away
And soak up the glow of love every day

Shepherd (Psalm 23)


The Lord is my Shepherd… I need nothing more
He is my rock, my guide, my friend whom I adore
He binds the wounded and heals the sick
He is there for his sheep through thin and thick

The Lord is my Shepherd… I need not fear
To You Lord all the flock is very dear
No one more important all loved just the same
He knows all His sheep by name

The Lord is my Shepherd… In whom I find rest
He calls us all to our own spiritual quest
His love is forever, unconditional, and unending
I fall down in awe before The King

The Lord is my Shepherd… He knows his own
The sheep know His voice and tone
The Lord makes sure each one is safe and sound
He will bring them back to safe lush ground

The Lord is my Shepherd… He protects us from danger
Protecting us from any stranger
You separate the sheep from the goats
Guarding us from satan (the crafty wolf in sheep’s coats)

The Lord is my Shepherd… I know He will always provide
Even through the darkest night He is at our side
Delivering me from my biggest foes
When we are overwhelmed and scared He takes the blows

The Lord is my Shepherd… Forgiving and open
Taking in and loving us as we are: ****** and broken
As sheep we are so prone to wander and stray
But whatever we do we cannot get away
  
The Lord is my Shepherd… And I am in good hands
I rest in His wondrous presence; safe from shifting sands
‘Neath His wings I find a peace comparable to none
I bask in the power and warmth of The Son

The Lord God is our sword and shield
As we walk upon this battlefield.
We are called to stand up and fight
For justice, for truth, for all that is right.
Here upon this solemn hill, we stand
We will overcome by God's might right hand.
The Lord is my fortress and my strong tower
In His wake, mercy and grace shall flower.
Take up the Rosary, lift high the Holy Cross
All that I am or have, I count it as loss
For, without you, I am nothing.
Your very breath is my life
Your death paid the price
Without your love, I am empty and hollow
Without your voice, I cannot follow
Without your light, I fade away
Lord, I need you, everyday!

Shine the light of Christ for all to see
Living in love and peace and charity
Spread the good news to every people and land
See the good and the work of human hands
What God can do with and through an open heart
Broken can be made whole ad changes can truly start
Though your heart may be as hard as stone
I pray you remember you are never alone
For we are all children with one Dad
We have a safe haven when things get scary or bad

Shine forth like the sun
Radiant beams and glory streams
And hope springs forth like the dawn
Your golden glow giving glimpses
Of a gift greater than any on earth
Life eternal and a new birth
Shine and let your light lift
The mind and body and soul
With praise and prayer
Pierce the very heart of darkness
Sing and dance with every fiber
And this Adoration we will employ
Till the very rocks cry out with joy
Warm the earth and hearth and home
May the glow follow wherever we roam
All the nations on earth will see
And many people will come to believe
From miles around they will flock
To be close to you and take stock
Of their own light that lives within
Where they end, He will begin
So, shine your light, your God-given sun
Giving thanks and praise to the Holy One

Holy Mary crowned with glory
Bright shining as the sun
Queen of Mercy and of Love
You crush the evil one
We are in your tenderness
In your kindness and endless grace
Children whom you love to bless
And wrap with sweetest embrace
Gentle woman blessed mother
Obedient to Our Father's will
Your faith in God was like no other
And that courage inspires still
Taken wholly up to Heaven
When this life on earth was through
Now we ask your intercession
Pray for us in all we say and do
Dear mother by virtue of the union
Lead us to your son our Lord
That, we too, may live in communion
In that Life and Love outpoured

Holy Mary crowned with glory
Bright shining as the sun
Queen of Mercy and of love
You crush the evil one
We are in your tenderness
In your kindness and endless grace
We are your children who you love to bless
And wrap with sweetest embrace
Gentle woman, blessed mother
Obedient to Our Father's will
Your faith in God was like no other
And that courage inspires still
Taken wholly up to Heaven
When this life on earth was through
Now we ask your intercession,
Pray for us in all we say and do
Dear mother by virtue of the union
Lead us to your son our Lord
That we too may live in communion
In that Life and Love outpoured

Silence

Stay here with me and find your rest
Find relief in the shadow of my loving embrace
I challenge you in the practice of silence and patience
The point is not to find words where there are none
The greatest friends are comfortable in the silence
In the space between moments
Are you comfortable in the silence yet?
Do you trust me enough that even in the silence I will speak
I just want you to be with me spend time with me
Find the deep inner peace in your life
Be content with me and what I give you
Be content just to be and nothing more
Trust me: I am more than enough
I am all you need and I love you
Lose yourself in the shadow of the cross
Rejoice for I come to seek and save the lost

My child just be silent, just be still
Just because I can, doesn’t mean I will.
Sometimes silence speaks volumes when words can fall flat.

I hear the birds singing in every tree
I know they sing because they are free
But today it seems they're singing for me

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

Listen to the world around you
Take in all that it has to offer
Tune out the distractions of life
Tune in to the love of God in creation
Listen to the song of life and love
Feel the Spirit move in the air
And for a moment just be present, aware
There is more to this life we are living
We can be giving, we can be forgiving
We can find peace and joy when we stop
Or even if we just start to slow down
We are chasing after shadows
Insubstantial projections of what is really real
If you're not careful, your soul they will steal
So listen and let the Spirit surround you
So listen and let the love of God enfold you
So listen and let peace pervade you
So Listen

Someday soon we’ll lift our gaze
Someday soon we’ll sing the Lord’s praise
We’ll be welcomed through heaven’s gates
Everything there is all first rates
No more crying no more pain no more fear
Always sun and no more rain; always clear
Ever happy no more sad or anger no’s
Precious love is here in perfect beauty like a rose
All the bad things that exist are in your mind
You’ll only see nice things of every kind
Take shelter in God’s all-encompassing wings
Rest in ease safe from the evil shadow’s things
You are only one, but you have made a great change
That which is unknown is no longer strange
Do you fear God and also love him
Don’t try to fake for he is never asleep or dim
With God by our side we can never go wrong
Because of Jesus, I am writing this song
I truly hope my words reach out to you out there
That this paper travels across land, sea, and air
My goal right now is to teach about the Lord
So in the song of life you have the right chord
We are here to make a difference and to learn
With the right help, there is much we can turn
Happy are those who do not have much
But are rich in love and such

We bleed the same, we breathe the same, we hurt the same, we hope the same
Some seem to try their hardest to tear this world apart
I try to show love, give love, live love, be love and bring the world together
Some choose to see what divides us
I choose to see what unites us
Some would see the world on fire
I would see our hearts on fire
Some would seek to change another
I would seek to understand my brother
Some might say all hope is lost
I might say we are lost and search for where hope is found
Some might feel only rage and hate
But I feel that peace and love will dominate
Some might believe that I'm a dreamer or a fool
But I believe that hope and dreams will never be uncool
Some might wonder and ask why should I care?
I wonder how they don't see it everywhere

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

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

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

There’s something about today I know
Like a present wrapped in a pretty bow
Like a little puppy just waiting to be
Shining like an angel for all to see
The second you open and I see you smile
Just brings me back several years for a while
That special love and trust that you have for all
When I hear you crying I can’t help but answer the call
You don’t know how special to me this moment is
For a few seconds now I am in show-biz
It means so much to me to know you
As I have ever ‘ere you were just two
Hoping hopes and dreaming dreams
Loving loves and loathing screams
All is calm and all is bright
Once again on this precious night
Together we remember the good and the bad
We’ve laughed together and made it through the sad

Something about you makes me smile
Something about you makes me dance awhile
Something about you brightens my day
Something about you makes me feel special in every way
Something about you gives me comfort in the dark
Something about you makes me hit my mark
Something about you inspires a part of me
Something about you just makes me free
Something about you when I'm lost gives hope
Something about you feels like a safety rope
Something about you is making me write this song
Something about you I knew all along
Something about you when I'm steamed is cool
Something about you keeps me working like fuel
Something about you just makes me believe
Something about you helps me to receive
Something about you strikes me exponential
Something about you says great potential
Something about you seems like a miracle
Something about you is almost lyrical
Something about you is one and only
Something about you feels almost homely
Something about you fills me with great awe
Something about you is strong like a claw
Something about you is special and sweet
Something about you is undoubtedly neat
Together we are strong alone w are weak

Sometimes days are hard and long
Where, somehow, everything goes wrong
And you manage to just make it through
Don't forget to whisper a "Thank You"

Some days are sunny and bright
And everything is just going right
When it seems like it is too good to be true
Don't fret and just whisper a "Thank You"

Sometimes it happens that you have a good day
That could've easily gone a very different way
How or why it all worked, you don't have a clue
Just raise your hands and whisper a "Thank You"

Sometimes just a "Thank You" is all that you can say
Sometimes just a "Thank You" is all you have to pray
Sometimes just a "Thank You" can brighten someone's day
Sometimes just a "Thank You" makes everything okay

Lord, there are days when I should've been impatient, frustrated, tired and more and I wasn't. Maybe I prayed for strength and peace, patience, endurance and your blessings and I received them. Thank You! There are also days when I didn't pray for your blessings and ask for your help, but you knew and provided for me anyway. You shielded me from these negative emotions and protected me. You strengthened me and provided for me to do what must be done. All I can think to do Lord is whisper a "Thank You". Lord, you are good all the time, and all the time, you are good. Help me to be mindful and thankful to you all of my days for you are there and you make all things good. As long as you are present Lord, we never have to truly worry. Thank You! Amen

Your love is deeper than the oceans
Your grace reaches through the valley below
So much more than just a savior, more than just a friend
So much more than just a power that I can't comprehend
You are truth, you are grace, you are joy I can't contain
You are love, you are life, and I'll never be the same
All the stars shining down on a clear night sky
You came to save a wretch like me I can't imagine why
So much more than just a light you came into my life and now I glow
You made a home inside my heart and softened every hardened part and I start to grow
I once was lost adrift at sea the wind and waves grew wild
Afraid I prayed and through the storm you heard and you found me
For years I was blind I could not see your face
But with open eyes I see the depth and power of your amazing grace
You aren't just a man who was born who lived and died
Son of God and son of man you were crucified
You weren't just a prophet a teacher or a king
You are the author of life and creator of everything
So much more than simple stories the parables you shared
Your death to show us just how much you really cared
You aren't just a healer a doer of good deeds
You tended to our spiritual needs
You are so much more than surface going right to my core
Satisfy this longing this hunger! It's you I'm yearning for

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!

The angels sing in Heaven above
Full of adoration and of love
Trumpets blare and harps will play
To bring in a brand new day
Christ the King is on His throne
Praise to Him who stands alone
Far beyond the mortal man
Are the workings of His hand
None can fathom the depths of the Lord
The price he payed in love outpoured
Dance with the drums; the pulsing beat
Sing your praises and, for joy, repeat
Lift your voices with the Heavenly Host
Glory to Father, Son, and Holy Ghost
Praises fill the air as music fills the sky
Praise to the Lion and the Lamb, God Most High
King of Kings, Lord of Lords, Prince of Peace
May the songs that we sing never cease
Songs from Heaven ring over the earth
Sung with joy, laughter and great mirth
Let me sing to you with every part of me
I speak from my heart and soul you see
Remind me Lord that I am because you are
And even when I can’t feel you, you are never far
You hold me in your hand and sing a love so great
You taught me with stories that I could relate
You keep watch over me as I sleep and dream
You are in my corner, you are on my team
Our prayers rise up with our song
And in our frailties you make us strong
The songs from Heaven sing the Hymn of Your glory
Telling, to all the nations and people, Salvation’s Story
The songs from Heaven give glory to your name
Let your people on Earth echo the same

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

In the deepest depths of darkness,
In the searing searching of the soul
In this cavern we are now aware
That we are naked and made bare
The air is still, it's as silent as a tomb
Our lives are reflected in this room
In the darkness, we must find our peace
Through the silence, the Lord, speaks
The soul, it knows, such darkness
But in the darkness, there also, is light
Under pressure, darkness and cold
Forms a beauteous sight to behold
For, deep within the soul's mine
Are diamonds that sparkle and shine
The soul of man is a mighty mystery
With great potential and storied history
To self-reflect, to dive inward to reach out
To be so fragile, and yet, so stout
To long and feel, to love and create
To sing and dance and associate

Not all that is dark is evil
Or leads to deadly sleep
Some is soft and gentle
A place to hide and be safe
Not all that glitters and gleams
Is always exactly as it seems
So, keep your wits about you
That you may follow what is true

As I gaze upon the vast expanse of the night sky
As I look upon the greatness of the seas
As I ponder on the things I cannot know
As I dive into the deepest parts of me
It is there that I see and I come to believe
In the presence of one who at times reminds
The heart and soul of peace love truth there are signs
I am blind to my mistakes keep playing in my mind
There is chaos and sadness but sometimes I find
A love quiet and strong sadness and pain but hope in the rain
A stronghold a shelter when I am burdened and weak
It is here the presence resides that I seek
There is a longing an ache a burning I feel
So great that I am caused to kneel
But it is here somehow that something begins
In tears and in pain the great weight of my sins
Seems a little lighter and I know that God wins
He paid the greatest price on one fateful Friday
And He is faithful good and true in my day
Sadly it seems sometimes this world is forgetting
The kind of example that Jesus was setting
To show us the true meaning of life and love
What it is to be human and divine
A single candle in the dark can brightly shine
Illuminate my deepest darkest corners of me
Clear away the cobwebs, sweep away the dust
Clean this old house of pride, jealousy, and lust
Help me once again to see
Just how much you must love me

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

Spring is finally here: winter has come and passed.
Days are getting longer, it's getting warmer at last.
Sunshine melts the snow to quench the thirsty ground,
And on Easter morning, many eggs are found.
Red and yellow roses, daisies and daffodils too;
The smile that appears whenever I think of you.
All creation comes alive with a natural symphony
That pours forth from every rock and stream and tree.
Music fills the air as the rainbow dances across the sky,
This beauty I cannot express no matter how hard I try.

You are the vine I am the branches
Connected to you the source of all life
You are the vine I am the branches
Connected to you I bear great fruit
You are the well source of living water
I am a cup for your blessings outpoured
You are my shelter strong tower in the storm
You are the rock my salvation
You are my solid ground and firm foundation
You are the source of life everlasting
You love a sacrifice of praise and prayer and fasting
Apart from you I am nothing I am empty
In you I live and breathe and have my being

The seeds of truth and love and light are scattered all around
Some among thorns and rocks or on the path, but some will find good ground
These are the conditions in which our souls can be found
Those among rocky soil are shallow and cannot take hold
When the heat is on in life they wither truth be told
And at times it seems they act distant mechanical and cold
Amidst the thorns and weeds the souls that fall
Find their deaths in the earthly siren’s call
Thirdly they that fall on hardened soil build up a rugged wall
Response to pain or suffering one creates a shield
For fear of getting hurt again but needing to be healed
Difficult to break through or down to deliver truth revealed
Finally the soul that falls on fertile soil and grows deep root
Healthy and pure they bear plentiful and beautiful fruit
This can be our destiny and our lives can follow suit
At different times in our life our souls can be
Any one of the soul’s soils you see
But we can choose and act any of these
So let us strive without end to find good soil not to break but to bend
Not to weaken but to heal not to tear but mend and seal
Set your seal upon us Lord and help us have the strength and grace
Sign your name upon our hearts as we sign ourselves with the father son and holy spirit
Deliver us from temptation and sin to your heart Oh Lord and we pray for our soul’s deliverance

AMEN

Ok Lord, here I am. Today I'm just spending time with you. Come and meet me where I am. Be with me. I know you love me. I love you too. Thank you.

"Okay Lord, here I am. Today, I'm just spending time with you. Come and meet me where I am. Be with me. I know you love me. I love you too. Thank you."

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

Trumpets will play at the sound of your name
All of creation will echo the same
Angels will sing out the praise of the king
Victor over sin and death; let freedom ring!
Shining star, Lord of Lords and Prince of Peace,
We come to you now. Let hope arise and faith increase.
Holy Holy Holy is the Lord God of Hosts,
Sharing in perfect communion: Father Son and Holy Ghost.

Hail Mary our Mother, how great was your "Yes"
Through your faith, and we are blessed.
Comfort and protect us oh Mother of ours
Be near us and save us. Before you, evil cowers.

Oh Joseph most Holy, be with us this day;
In our obedience and adherence to do as Jesus says.
May our hands and our feet be gentle yet strong,
Guide us and teach us as we walk along!

AMEN!

Along the stairway to Heaven
The angels play their harps of gold
They sing hymns of ceaseless praise
To the prince of peace and king of kings.
He came down from Heaven to take his place as man
To pay the cost we could not pay was always the plan.
I walk along the stairway to Heaven
It is a long and challenging climb
But I keep my eyes fixed ahead and I make some progress.
I do not walk alone for there are many here with me
The way we make it up is to help each other.
Mary made a path for us and Jesus paved the way
Joseph walks beside us lending us his strength
Jacob dreams a ladder stretching from Heaven to earth.
The cross became the bridge with which to cross
The Grand Canyon that is between us and God.
Sometimes I feel like I'm close to you
Other times I'm miles away and in the dark.
Be with me Lord and help me on the way
Lord give me strength for the journey.
At times the climb is more like a battle
Fighting just to keep my feet from falling
But when I lose hope I think I feel you calling.
The stairway to Heaven will last a lifetime
There are many gone before us to help show us
To guide and encourage and challenge.
Following their light to the source of all light.
The stairway to Heaven is not always an easy climb
But it has been well worth the struggle every single time.

When the battle lines are drawn, and the horn of war has sounded
When you are outnumbered, and the enemy has you surrounded
When your heart is beating madly inside your chest
Summon up the hope that springs eternal in the human breast
And go, once more, unto the breach!

When the walls fall, and the defenses are shattered
And you are bruised and broken, ****** and battered
Fight with all your being and brave the sea of foes
Fight for God and for family, fight for the love of those
And go, once more, and stand in the gap

We are called to stand in the gap, and even give our lives
We are called to intercede for our children and our wives
Lay down your sword and take up the arrows of love
Pierce the dark and fill the void with light from above
And go, once more, and stand in the gap

Christ has come as the Holy and Annointed One
To stand in the gap that our sin had begun
The chasm that separated us is no more
For the cross has become the bridge to the far shore
And Jesus, once more, stands in the gap

Since the fall and by the sins of mortal man
We find it difficult to truly understand
That our hearts are broken and there stands a void
We struggle to find the peace we once enjoyed
Only the love of God can fill the void

The angels' battle is relentless and eternal
Against the forces of darkness infernal
The earth is slick with blood and death
But still, they fight on with every last breath
And go, once more, unto the breach!

Stand in the rain,
Let the water wash over.
Stand in the joy and the pain,
Feel the drops upon your skin.

Stand in the darkening sky,
Feel the power and promise;
If you focus, if you really try,
You might hear the voice of God.

Stand in the sea
With the waves crashing wild.
Stand; for the one calling is He.
He is the Lamb so meek and mild.

Stand in the temple and sing,
Lift your heart to the One True King.
The waters of mercy, love’s healing touch;
A gift from the one who loves you so much.

Sometimes I’m drowning in a sea of regret,
The storm of sin is bearing down hard.
In these times I seem to quickly forget
That you gave me your calling card.

Sometimes I’m drowning in your love,
Caught up in the storm of your mercy.
You wash me as white as the new winter snow
Your rain helping me as I try to grow.

I am renewed as I stand in the rain
You are life for my soul like a desert oasis.
Strip me away until you are all that remain
In you, I take root and have my basis.

Stand in the rain; sing and dance.
Remember how we got a second chance?
After the flood that covered the earth
God sent a rainbow and a sign of rebirth.

Stand in the rain sense the peace.
Stand in the rain feel the life.
Stand in the rain know the joy.
Stand in the rain see the beauty.
Stand in the rain come alive.

Make me poor so I can be filled with your richness
Make me hungry so that only you can satisfy
Make me simple so I can be more mindful of you
Make me low so that I can be uplifted in your grace
Make me humble so that I may serve in your example
Make me lonely so I can more perfectly feel your love
Make me mute so I can listen when you would speak
Make me broken so that I can be shared
Make me nothing so I remember you are my everything

Make me poor so I can be filled with your richness
Make me hungry so that only you can satisfy
Make me simple so I can be more mindful of you
Make me low so that I can be uplifted in your grace
Make me humble so that I may serve in your example
Make me lonely so I can more perfectly feel your love
Make me mute so I can listen when you would speak
Make me broken so that I can be shared
Make me nothing so that I remember: you are my everything

The songs we sing and the words we write
Are like a family we hold so tight
History reminds us
Our past does not define us
Not after God has found us
We come to share our stories we come to break bread
We share a meal and a tale or two
A gift for me and a gift for you
Every story is specially unique
Each one touches people for different reasons
They are not bound by race or religion or language or place
Stories help us remember as well
The people and times in our lives
Even after death stories still survive
We pour out our heart we bare our soul
All we have and all we are blessed and broken
Given for all: love freely spoken
The words we write not only for our benefit
The stories told so we might not forget
Your story is dynamic growing and changing