A Tale Of Two Tomes

The finest Moroccan leather tome
sat regally on display,
the Bible from her grandma,
a gift on their wedding day.

Scarcely touched pages still snowy white
graced by golden filigree,
sitting safely inside the curio
for all passersby to see.

To have such a lavish copy as this,
one might say they’re quite blessed
but God looking down from heaven
felt sad rather than impressed.

She told herself she should read it
but with busy cares of life,
work, family and pressing plans,
with excuses her mind was rife.

So sacred writ sat there year after year
just merely a decoration
not life giving words to be read and loved
to procure a soul’s salvation.

****************************

But not very far away

on the other side of town

lay a Bible on an oaken coffee table

its cover, a faded brown.

Sticking out from the bottom of this tome

that looked to be bruised and battered,

blue ribbon that served as a bookmark

hung limply, its end frayed and tattered.

Upon opening the much used Book

the pages were yellowed and worn

many were scribbled with notes

and some damaged and slightly torn.

One look at this bestseller’s spine

revealed a binding quite loose.

There was even a page stained purple

from unexpected spilling of juice.

Tear stains were found throughout

that could not be denied

from the owner of this Blessed tome,

evidence she was moved and had cried.

Turning through the threadbare pages,

declared that its leaves were hue loaded,

with verses that with colored pencils

had been categorized and coded.

There were browns for repentance, blues for baptism,

reds for the Holy Ghost,

purples for holiness, greens for creation,

with the One God yellows, the most.

To the eye of the average beholder

this manuscript, not a pretty sight

but God looked down from Heaven

with wonder and delight.

For the Bible was never meant to be

just an ornamental frill,

but to be read and loved and believed

its wisdom, our lives to fill.

No treasures can be found

in pristine and unturned pages

only gold diggers of this Holy Book

can extract the Rock of Ages.

9/25/2020

The Writer Of My Story

The perfect pace

of His comforting grace

has brought me thru many a trial.

Whate’er I face

as I run life’s race,

He aids me to go the next mile.

 

 

My God makes it known

that I’m never alone.

I’ve never by Him been forsaken.

My mind’s  often blown

with the wonders He’s shown.

By blessings I am overtaken.

 

 

He’s that constant friend

on whom I depend,

in sunshine and in rain.

He’s faithful to send

the ideal blend

to my life, both joy and pain.

 

 

I’m fully persuaded

each day I am aided

by the Writer of my life’s story.

I have anticipated

with breath that is bated

for that moment I’ll see Him in glory.

8/9/2020

The Dwarfing Star

Ah, thou lesser lights that rule the night,
how many and manifold are thy purposes!
Let me recount some of thine accomplishments. On many
occasion you have provided a glorious backdrop with your
*******dazzling diamonds*******
for multitudes of young men dropping to their
knees to lovingly propose to the girls of their dreams. Preschool
and kindergarten teachers and students have thrilled to your
red,* green,* blue,* silver* and gold* foil likeness
adorning good
behavior charts. Many countries have used your stunning image to decorate
their flags, and without you, my country would have an
unspangled banner.  Brutal boxers delivering their winning punch
have caused their stunned opponents to see myriads of you.******             Without you, awestruck astronomers would only be able
to gaze at the moon in fixed fascination.
From point* to point,* thou hast provided the shining stuff of which the
constellations are made.  Colloquially speaking, if it weren’t for you, we could
not reach for the stars, have stars in our eyes, be every inch a star or
hitch our wagon to a star.
So many wonderful achievements you’ve made
in your life time, yet one star in its divine directive caused you to dwarf.
Blazing brilliantly in the night sky, that nameless star pointed the way
to the location where was born the most important Figure in history.
Wise men still seek the One who was illuminated by that
lone, lovely light <*>
so many years ago.

6/15/18

The Propelling Power Of Hunger

 

In a third world country

an extremely thin man stands alongside

a cow at a garbage dump, both driven

by the need for something

to eat . A foreigner, professional

photographer, sees this as a photo op

and begins snapping pictures.  The scavenging man

is not influenced in the slightest by the flashing

camera, quest to fill his screaming stomach

completely dominates.

 

Four teenage boys were drunk again

on a  Sunday evening, seeking a temporary

oasis from their miserable lives. As rain began to

come down harder, they stumbled to the corner

where they heard music and robust singing.  They

were in front of the “weird church” as the crowd

they ran with had called it.  Seeking asylum from

the pelleting  droplets, they decided to go in.  Slipping

in the back row, they sat for a few minutes, simply

observing, until one of them began to snicker. These

people with their eyes closed, hands raised and some of

them speaking strange foreign languages just seemed so

funny. Soon they were all snickering and rib poking

though most members  seemed unaware of their antics.

A disgruntled looking usher made his way toward the platform

motioning to a man sitting behind the pulpit.  A brief discourse

took place between them. The man eyed the youth at the

back of the church and shook his head. As the usher returned

to his post, the man seated behind the pulpit came

forward and begin to read a text. One of the boys,

 the one with the plaid scarf

found that he was suddenly sober

while the disrespectful titters continued to

come from the others. As the man in the front spoke

the sober lad began to feel a multitude of emotions

regret

   guilt

       shame

          remorse

                    and a strange longing.

After only fifteen minutes an altar call was given.

The leader of the blitzed boys whispered

that it was time to go. As they exited the pew,

the lad with plaid turned the opposite direction,

Walking to the front of the church

peer pressure lost its grip as

a ravaging inner famine drove

him to fall on his knees

where he wept himself

into the presence of

the Almighty and loving God.

 

10/11/18

 

 

 

Seven Failures of the Modern Church

I thought this was a worthy subject of a poem, and it is based on the incredible teaching we heard last year from my pastor/husband.

 

 

1. Preaching of a Crossless Christianity

 

A  Christianity without a cross

is preached across some pulpits of our day.

Sacrifice of Calvary is but dross.

From the blood of Jesus we have turned away.

 

A social gospel many do purport.

Your own good works, yes they can do the job.

But preaching of this self-sufficient sort,

the message of Golgotha, it does rob.

 

Some focus on the loaves and the fishes,

the miracles and feelie goodie things.

Heaven we’ll achieve through our good wishes,

but man can’t rise by his own apron strings.

 

Preaching that’s crossless, God will not anoint.

Powerless it is and misses the point.

 

2. Preaching A No Change Christianity

 

Powerless it is and misses the point,

such doctrine not requiring us to change.

The purpose of God, it does disappoint;

concept in Scripture unknown and quite strange.

 

Jesus came to save us from each dark sin

through His blood and the power of His name.

Soul that embraces this truth should begin

to see that he need not remain the same.

 

Old things passed away, all things are made new

when thru water, Spirit we’re born again.

This teaching is not conveyed to the pew.

Many go on as carnal, unchanged men.

 

Such discourse espousing no about face,

it leaves a man in a state of disgrace.

 

 

3. Preaching of a No Commitment Christianity

 

 

It leaves a man in a state of disgrace

when it’s not proclaimed, our need to commit.

‘Tis a fickle love, like smoke in God’s face,

spineless profession that has no true grit.

 

Like customers before a smorgasbord

that exercise their right to choose;

some have this disposition toward the Lord.

Take it, leave it attitude is bad news.

 

There’s a definite lack in preaching now

coming down from the pulpit to the pew

of importance in making holy vows,

but it is something we all need to do.

 

When committing to God there is a lack,

we don’t move forward. Our soul does draw back.

 

 

4. Preaching of a No Compliance Christianity

 

 

We don’t move forward. Our soul does draw back

when to Scripture’s tenets we don’t adhere.

We’re like a train that is on the wrong track.

The derailment of our lives is near.

 

If to worldly practices we’re conformed;

do like everyone and try to fit in.

In our minds renewing, we’re not transformed;

know that we are on the pathway of sin.

 

God’s Word calls people to separation

of the things that are grievous in His sight.

If in this we do come to reparation,

our willful compliance brings Him delight.

 

Preaching void of devotion is hollow.

It is not the course we want to follow.

 

5. Preaching of a No Cause Christianity

 

 

It is not the course we want to follow,

religion with no lofty, noble goal;

in self-indulgent luxury wallow,

our sinful appetites out of control.

 

We’re not our own, and with a price we’re bought.

However, seldom is it preached, this cause.

Surrender of ourselves, this truth not taught,

and many do not stop and give it pause.

 

A common goal, eat, drink and be merry

in our society does permeate.

Epicurean stance does not carry

Bible truth, nor does it hold any weight.

 

A limp and causeless Christianity,

it’s nothing short of hum drum vanity.

 

 

6. Preaching of a No Covenant Christianity

 

 

It’s nothing short of hum drum vanity.

A no agreement type relationship

though practiced much among humanity,

for bond ‘tween God and man, it is not hip.

 

Two can’t walk together unless agreed.

On God’s terms is the way we must advance.

To try and make our will to supersede

is nothing more than a song and a dance.

 

So blessed indeed the contract that does bind

the will of creature, Creator in one.

A good end result for sure we will find.

The purpose of God, thru man can be done.

 

If covenant agreement is not preached

God’s desire for man will not be reached.

 

 

7. Preaching of a No Consecration Christianity

 

God’s desire for man will not be reached

lest we give ourselves to consecration.

Our sacred affinity will be breached

without a whole hearted dedication.

 

Faithfully, daily laboring in prayer

if this Christian race we do want to win.

‘Tis a sign to God that we truly care,

paves the way for more lost sheep to come in.

 

Lackadaisical service will not do

in any form or on any level,

from those in the pulpit or those in the pew;

nothing short but a trick of the devil.

 

Hollowed, not hallowed, then we lose the toss

a Christianity without a cross.

 

10/1/17

What An Amazing Trip!

On January 21, my husband and I were privileged to be able to take our third trip to the country of Peru. This excursion was going to be a little different for us, because our primary purpose in going was to get some much needed dental work done for a lot less money.

This is hubby with our Peruvian dentist, Dr. Nelson Junes. I’m probably going to be dead meat for posting this picture, but this is the only one we had of the dentist. I had a dental exam, deep cleaning, 3 root canals and 3 crowns inserted. My husband had a lot more work done on his teeth than I did. I’m so thankful for the help from the Nix family in helping us communicate with the dentist. I know some Spanish, but I just haven’t reached that level……………….yet. Our dentist was very kind, and God opened a door of witness to him. He allowed his 12 year old son to come to the youth camp that was going on while we were there. His wife and sister-in-law(she also works in the dentist’s office)came and visited one of the evening services at the camp as well. If you think of it, please mention this dentist and family in your prayers. We would love to see God add them to His church!

We were privileged to be in Peru during the time of their National Conference. Rev. Rick Treece and Revered Kelly Patrick were the speakers this year, and they did an outstanding job. There was a wonderful move of the Holy Ghost in every service. The two men in the photos above are pastors from a Trinitarian organization that received the baptism of the Holy Ghost. Gloria a Dios!

The evening before the conference started they had their Bible college graduation. I know I’m kind of biased, but the speaker that they had for the graduation was really tremendous. It was my husband! 🙂

The week after the National Conference was the youth camp for ages 12-35. Brother Carl Brown and his son Preston were the preachers/teachers, and they were greatly used of God. The young people’s response to the Word of God was beautiful. There were altar services that went on for an hour or longer. What a blessing it was to see new dedications and consecrations made to the Lord!

 

I have to take a break for now, but I hope to post more about our trip soon. There is some updated info on La Aventura de la Gringa page also.

 

Introspection

A watched pot never boils, it’s been said

and through my observation I have learned

the outcome of another pot instead.

Neglected one most surely will be burned.

 

Has it been way too long since I’ve been stirred?

Complacent is my current state of soul?

Do I wander, spiritual vision blurred?

Lord, your bestirring, let it be my goal.

 

This earthen vessel often must be changed

and challenged to become much more like Thee.

My stinking thinking must be rearranged.

Let holy agitation move through me.

 

Whate’er it takes, don’t let me stay the same.

Shake me by your Word, in Jesus’ dear name.

 

10/30/17

 

 

 

2Timothy 1:6  Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands. 

2Peter 3:1,2  This second epistle, beloved, I now write unto you; in both which I stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance: 

That ye may be mindful of the words which were spoken before by the holy prophets, and of the commandment of us the apostles of the Lord and Saviour: 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Keep It Alive

 

It must be nurtured,

or it won’t remain the same.

It’s a fire that will die

if we do not fan the flame.

The passion starts out hot

but quickly can grow cold.

Constantly we must be on guard

lest it become stale , old.

Many are the distractions

that will seek to take its’ place.

If we find the glow is waning

we must do an about face.

A necessary commodity

as on this earth we trod;

we’ll never make heaven our home

if we lose our love for God.

 

11/6/17

 

Matthew 24:12,13  And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. 

But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved. 

Much Needed Wind

 

I’ve watched the societal winds of change
blowing all my life.
The transformations they’ve brought about,
to say the least, are rife.

I know of many who once served God
back in the days of old,
but contrary winds blew on their souls
causing that love to grow cold.

In the days of my childhood
marriage was a sustaining force.
Headstrong breezes blasted the family;
made it popular to get a divorce.

I remember when children were cherished by parents.
They were nurtured, loved and protected.
With the adverse winds of promiscuity
we’ve a crop of kids abused and neglected.

God was once a part of public education.
Against Him there was no rule,
until a liberal gale stirred up a storm
and blew Him right out of school.

Kids grew up reading in my day.
Now with books, they’re less and less seen.
With the advent of technological typhoons,
they’re usually glued to a screen.

So many wayward winds are blowing these days.
Much virtue and character we’ve lost.
We need a revival of the wind
that blew on the day of Pentecost.

The wind of God blew on that inaugural day.
They were filled with God’s Holy Spirit.
The gospel that truly sets men free,
with boldness, they did declare it.

Although some did not like this wind
and persecution did abound,
through the power of God that changed them,
they turned their world upside down.

Oh, for that wind to blow today.
What blessing it does impart.
It brings the change that every man needs,
and it starts within the heart!

8/31/17

Acts 2:1-4  And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Act 17:1-6  Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:
And Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,
Opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.
And some of them believed, and consorted with Paul and Silas; and of the devout Greeks a great multitude, and of the chief women not a few.
But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people.
And when they found them not, they drew Jason and certain brethren unto the rulers of the city, crying, These that have turned the world upside down are come hither also;

I’ve Got The River!

Refreshing current, first time upon me broke
when God’s Spirit indwelt me, in tongues I spoke.
I’ve got the river!

 

Sometimes it is a peaceful ride
with still pure water on the inside.
I’ve got the river!

 

On occasion it bubbles up merrily
and truly I know, verily, verily,
I’ve got the river!

 

Some days the waters wind and turn.
Perhaps there’s a lesson for me to learn.
I’ve got the river!

 

Other times it’s wild and exciting
Those spiritual rapids, I am riding.
I’ve got the river!

 

When I yield myself to its full control
the waves and billows sweep over my soul.
I’ve got the river!

 

This life giving water is for all to receive
if according to the Scriptures, you will believe.
You can have the river!

 

9/22/17

John 7:38-39 He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
(But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)

John 4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

 

Act 2:1-4 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Act 10:44-48 While Peter yet spake these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word.
And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.
For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God. Then answered Peter,
Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we?
And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days.