Thought #1. Heard neighbors/kids in swimming pool today exclaiming 'oh my god'. I thought about asking them if God really was their God. Wonder what kind of responses I'd get if I asked this question every time I heard that jest? How it must grieve God to hear it. How it must grieve God when we keep silent.
Thought #2. Saw the vegetarians came for a breakfast of beet greens and carrot tops topped with dew drops. New story idea - about vegetarians. Will use the story in Daniel for the application.
Felt good to work in the yard all day today. Once you start sweating, you feel a lot cooler. Almost finished weeding. Thinking will trim trees in the morning or maybe shrubs. The garden party never ends...
Life is a Garden Party
Monday, June 30, 2014
Saturday, June 28, 2014
Drummers
You would think there was a rock band
with a crowd of screaming fans
outside the window
playing in the shadows
as drumming is heard
in the outdoors.
They are heard mostly at night
through sometimes seen in sunlight.
They are dressed in black
drumming out back -
not quietly -
but quite loudly.
They never miss a beat
not even in the heat.
Sounding like 8th notes
with no rests wrote
as they never take a break.
Can't say they sound that great.
Admission is free
so sit out in the breeze
to catch their audition.
A lullaby's rendition?
I hardly think so - no no.
They keep me awake, you know.
There's more than one drumming
all night through till morning.
Not heard when there's snow though.
I don't know where they go.
Who is this drummer strumming?
It's crickets heard all night strumming.
* * * * *
Is there something keeping you awake?
Something that your mind cannot erase?
Something from your past
that seems to last and last?
Something from your yesterdays
that will not stay away?
Perhaps something recently caused much unrest?
You cannot seem to get a decent night's rest.
You cannot let it go.
It seems to grow and grow
for minutes turn to hours
zapping you of power.
That's not how God wants you to live.
God wants you to forget and forgive.
We forgive because God forgave us
so forgive and then live a life of trust
that God will work out the situation
in His time with a perfect solution.
Let the peace of God work in you
and let Him solve the problem too
for He knows what has happened to you
and feels every hurt you bear too.
Forgive
and live.
Bear with each other and forgive
whatever grievances you may have against one another.
Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,
since as members of one body
you were called to peace.
Colossians 3:13,15
with a crowd of screaming fans
outside the window
playing in the shadows
as drumming is heard
in the outdoors.
They are heard mostly at night
through sometimes seen in sunlight.
They are dressed in black
drumming out back -
not quietly -
but quite loudly.
They never miss a beat
not even in the heat.
Sounding like 8th notes
with no rests wrote
as they never take a break.
Can't say they sound that great.
Admission is free
so sit out in the breeze
to catch their audition.
A lullaby's rendition?
I hardly think so - no no.
They keep me awake, you know.
There's more than one drumming
all night through till morning.
Not heard when there's snow though.
I don't know where they go.
Who is this drummer strumming?
It's crickets heard all night strumming.
* * * * *
Is there something keeping you awake?
Something that your mind cannot erase?
Something from your past
that seems to last and last?
Something from your yesterdays
that will not stay away?
Perhaps something recently caused much unrest?
You cannot seem to get a decent night's rest.
You cannot let it go.
It seems to grow and grow
for minutes turn to hours
zapping you of power.
That's not how God wants you to live.
God wants you to forget and forgive.
We forgive because God forgave us
so forgive and then live a life of trust
that God will work out the situation
in His time with a perfect solution.
Let the peace of God work in you
and let Him solve the problem too
for He knows what has happened to you
and feels every hurt you bear too.
Forgive
and live.
Bear with each other and forgive
whatever grievances you may have against one another.
Forgive as the Lord forgave you.
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,
since as members of one body
you were called to peace.
Colossians 3:13,15
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
Chipmuks
Baby chipmunks scurry,
always in a hurry,
around and around
up the tree trunk and down
on their short little legs
with a long tail that waves.
With racing stripes that help them go fast,
everyday they practice the dash.
To them it's just a game they play
underneath the sun's bright rays.
As they run their tail points up.
Watch, off they go, then they jump.
Where are the chipmunks?
Where did they dunk?
Are chipmunks shy?
That must be why.
They're playing hide and seek.
If you listen, you might hear them squeak.
Chip chip.
Chip chip.
That's chipmunk talk.
Chipmunks never walk.
They dash
away fast.
They'll be back tomorrow to spy
on you with their two brown eyes.
Their inquisitive little nose
will guide them to where seeds are stowed.
They also like popcorn and peanuts
if you want to feed them a snack.
If you sit quietly, you can watch them eat
as they feed themselves with their little front feet.
You might even write a tale
of chipmunks whose striped tails
points toward the sky.
There they go. Bye-bye.
* * * * *
Isn't it neat how God provided
in His wisdom undivided
every feature
of creatures.
Chipmunks stripes are camouflage
making predators job hard.
Their tail helps them balance.
And they're cute, of course.
Though can be destructive
so take the incentive
to discourage them from staying.
One way perhaps is by not feeding.
Many things in life are bad for us:
overeating, overspending, mad us.
It is difficult but still possible
to manage the seemingly impossible.
Just realize you cannot do it alone.
Your help is in God, the Father, alone.
He's patiently waiting to hear from you
and has a good plan in store for you.
You'll find much security
in a world of uncertainly.
You'll not be struggling alone
if you invite God along.
Call to me
and I will answer you
and tell you great and unsearchable things
you do not know.
Jeremiah 33:3
This story is from Volume V. To order Volume II, go to/click on: http://bookstore.westbowpress.com/Products/SKU-000735604/Life-Is-a-Garden-Party-Volume-II.aspx
always in a hurry,
around and around
up the tree trunk and down
on their short little legs
with a long tail that waves.
With racing stripes that help them go fast,
everyday they practice the dash.
To them it's just a game they play
underneath the sun's bright rays.
As they run their tail points up.
Watch, off they go, then they jump.
Where are the chipmunks?
Where did they dunk?
Are chipmunks shy?
That must be why.
They're playing hide and seek.
If you listen, you might hear them squeak.
Chip chip.
Chip chip.
That's chipmunk talk.
Chipmunks never walk.
They dash
away fast.
They'll be back tomorrow to spy
on you with their two brown eyes.
Their inquisitive little nose
will guide them to where seeds are stowed.
They also like popcorn and peanuts
if you want to feed them a snack.
If you sit quietly, you can watch them eat
as they feed themselves with their little front feet.
You might even write a tale
of chipmunks whose striped tails
points toward the sky.
There they go. Bye-bye.
* * * * *
Isn't it neat how God provided
in His wisdom undivided
every feature
of creatures.
Chipmunks stripes are camouflage
making predators job hard.
Their tail helps them balance.
And they're cute, of course.
Though can be destructive
so take the incentive
to discourage them from staying.
One way perhaps is by not feeding.
Many things in life are bad for us:
overeating, overspending, mad us.
It is difficult but still possible
to manage the seemingly impossible.
Just realize you cannot do it alone.
Your help is in God, the Father, alone.
He's patiently waiting to hear from you
and has a good plan in store for you.
You'll find much security
in a world of uncertainly.
You'll not be struggling alone
if you invite God along.
Call to me
and I will answer you
and tell you great and unsearchable things
you do not know.
Jeremiah 33:3
This story is from Volume V. To order Volume II, go to/click on: http://bookstore.westbowpress.com/Products/SKU-000735604/Life-Is-a-Garden-Party-Volume-II.aspx
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Photos
Just sharing some flower photos here at 'Rainbow's End' on this lovely day for gardening...
To order Life Is a Garden Party Volume II, go to Westbowpress.
To order Life Is a Garden Party Volume II, go to Westbowpress.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Bucks and Does
Planted vegetable garden: first too dry, then too wet, then too cold, then rabbits chowed down. Sprayed hostas and lilies. Then deer jumped the fence eating hosta blooms that had not been sprayed, as well as sunflower heads and more. I've learned that their "Life Is a Garden Party"!
To order "Life Is a Garden Party": http://bookstore.westbowpress.com/Products/SKU-000735604/Life-Is-a-Garden-Party-Volume-II.aspx
Tawny brown,
four legs pound,
white tails bound,
round and round.
Not chased by hounds.
Making no sound
these creatures brown
hopping around
or jumping bound
through country towns.
Small ones hop around.
Large ones bound.
Both consume pound and pounds
down to the ground.
Gardeners frown.
Both are called bucks and does,
otherwise known as foes -
and other names, I suppose.
They cause gardeners woe
through each season, I know.
Some of these foes
have hooves for toes.
Others, having toenails that grow,
are found hopping on the ground low.
After eating, turds are left below.
Peter cottontails do look dear;
so do Bambi's relatives, called deer,
cause many problems far and near
for gardeners year after year.
A gardener's jeer you might hear.
Bucks and does are rabbits and deer.
To gardeners unwelcome, that's clear,
unless they obtain a license to hunt each year
then you'll see pointed antlers hanging next to the mirror
and smell rabbit stew tenderized with a can of beer.
Gardeners devise veers
to keep rabbits and deer
far away and clear,
but never fear
they'll return next year.
These rabbits and deer
know where their dinner
awaits for free, you hear,
and hunters peer and wait near
for their free dinner to appear.
A happy ending for someone.
Sounds like the gardener won
if he's a hunter with a gun,
but just one bang from the gun
bucks and does will quickly run.
These bucks and does will come
back one night after the sun
goes down over the mountain.
They feast until the black night is gone.
The gardener turned hunter acts stunned.
This true tale
of white tails
never fails
or goes stale
as some wail.
These males and females
travel hills and dales
then in my yard hail
as over the fence some sail
and through the fence others bail.
Every season
another reason
to fight treason.
From east to west on,
gardeners are not fond.
* * * * *
There is Someone who knows
all about your sorrows.
He knows
your woes.
Up from the grave He arose
in order to defeat your foes.
Read the book of Romans today then you'll know
how Jesus defeated your foes long ago.
Wait. Don't go
until you know
this story of old
that's true and grows more relevant as you go
down your life's unknown road.
I was overcome by trouble and sorrow.
then I called on the name of the Lord:
"O Lord, save me!"
Psalm 116:3b-4
To order "Life Is a Garden Party": http://bookstore.westbowpress.com/Products/SKU-000735604/Life-Is-a-Garden-Party-Volume-II.aspx
Tawny brown,
four legs pound,
white tails bound,
round and round.
Not chased by hounds.
Making no sound
these creatures brown
hopping around
or jumping bound
through country towns.
Small ones hop around.
Large ones bound.
Both consume pound and pounds
down to the ground.
Gardeners frown.
Both are called bucks and does,
otherwise known as foes -
and other names, I suppose.
They cause gardeners woe
through each season, I know.
Some of these foes
have hooves for toes.
Others, having toenails that grow,
are found hopping on the ground low.
After eating, turds are left below.
Peter cottontails do look dear;
so do Bambi's relatives, called deer,
cause many problems far and near
for gardeners year after year.
A gardener's jeer you might hear.
Bucks and does are rabbits and deer.
To gardeners unwelcome, that's clear,
unless they obtain a license to hunt each year
then you'll see pointed antlers hanging next to the mirror
and smell rabbit stew tenderized with a can of beer.
Gardeners devise veers
to keep rabbits and deer
far away and clear,
but never fear
they'll return next year.
These rabbits and deer
know where their dinner
awaits for free, you hear,
and hunters peer and wait near
for their free dinner to appear.
A happy ending for someone.
Sounds like the gardener won
if he's a hunter with a gun,
but just one bang from the gun
bucks and does will quickly run.
These bucks and does will come
back one night after the sun
goes down over the mountain.
They feast until the black night is gone.
The gardener turned hunter acts stunned.
This true tale
of white tails
never fails
or goes stale
as some wail.
These males and females
travel hills and dales
then in my yard hail
as over the fence some sail
and through the fence others bail.
Every season
another reason
to fight treason.
From east to west on,
gardeners are not fond.
* * * * *
There is Someone who knows
all about your sorrows.
He knows
your woes.
Up from the grave He arose
in order to defeat your foes.
Read the book of Romans today then you'll know
how Jesus defeated your foes long ago.
Wait. Don't go
until you know
this story of old
that's true and grows more relevant as you go
down your life's unknown road.
I was overcome by trouble and sorrow.
then I called on the name of the Lord:
"O Lord, save me!"
Psalm 116:3b-4
Monday, June 16, 2014
Without Number
(I'm not posting a gardening story this time. More like a life lesson story.)
No one but you, Lord, showers all creation
with loving kindness and tender compassion.
No one but you, Lord, is abounding in love
and is daily faithful from heaven above.
No one but you, Lord, is always forgiving
and satisfies me with your many blessings.
There's no one like you, Lord. No one. No one.
There's no one like you, God's one and only Son.
If I should ever doubt your ways and ask why
I'll just look up at the stars in the night sky
or I'll think of all the sand on the seashores
and I'll know that your blessings on me will pour
because you shower your loving kindness on me
and have more compassion than the deepest sea.
I know your love, faithfulness and forgiveness
is without number - numerous, and countless.
I need not ever fear, no, for you are nigh.
I know your love is much bigger than the sky
and greater than all the sand on the seashore.
Though I'm undeserving, your blessings still pour.
You will bless me with love 'til the day I die
when I will arrive in heaven by and by.
On that glad day I will see you face to face
surrounded by everlasting love and grace.
Hardships and trials in life will seem worth it
on that day when I arrive at heaven's gate
for to see your nail-scarred hands and feet, will speak
of your loving kindness from your mercy seat.
You had me in your mind that sad but glad day
even when you knew I would drift far away.
Glory to God! Your love endures forever!
It's numerous and countless - without number.
Refrain:
As countless as the sands on the seashores
your blessings on me continually pour.
As numerous as the stars in the sky
from the day I was born to the day I die
you continually show me I am treasured.
You love for me cannot ever be measured.
Without number you do love me more and more.
Everyday your blessings continue to pour.
There's no one like you, Lord. No one. No one.
There's no one like you, God's one and only Son.
...as numerous as the stars in the sky,
as countless as the sand on the seashore.
Hebrews 11:12
The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness,
maintaining love to thousands,
and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.
Exodus 34:6-7
His love endures forever.
Psalm 136
No one but you, Lord, showers all creation
with loving kindness and tender compassion.
No one but you, Lord, is abounding in love
and is daily faithful from heaven above.
No one but you, Lord, is always forgiving
and satisfies me with your many blessings.
There's no one like you, Lord. No one. No one.
There's no one like you, God's one and only Son.
If I should ever doubt your ways and ask why
I'll just look up at the stars in the night sky
or I'll think of all the sand on the seashores
and I'll know that your blessings on me will pour
because you shower your loving kindness on me
and have more compassion than the deepest sea.
I know your love, faithfulness and forgiveness
is without number - numerous, and countless.
I need not ever fear, no, for you are nigh.
I know your love is much bigger than the sky
and greater than all the sand on the seashore.
Though I'm undeserving, your blessings still pour.
You will bless me with love 'til the day I die
when I will arrive in heaven by and by.
On that glad day I will see you face to face
surrounded by everlasting love and grace.
Hardships and trials in life will seem worth it
on that day when I arrive at heaven's gate
for to see your nail-scarred hands and feet, will speak
of your loving kindness from your mercy seat.
You had me in your mind that sad but glad day
even when you knew I would drift far away.
Glory to God! Your love endures forever!
It's numerous and countless - without number.
Refrain:
As countless as the sands on the seashores
your blessings on me continually pour.
As numerous as the stars in the sky
from the day I was born to the day I die
you continually show me I am treasured.
You love for me cannot ever be measured.
Without number you do love me more and more.
Everyday your blessings continue to pour.
There's no one like you, Lord. No one. No one.
There's no one like you, God's one and only Son.
...as numerous as the stars in the sky,
as countless as the sand on the seashore.
Hebrews 11:12
The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God,
slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness,
maintaining love to thousands,
and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.
Exodus 34:6-7
His love endures forever.
Psalm 136
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Queens
I may never see a queen bee
but I have seen queens that be
reigning monarchs
over much yard work.
This queen may not primp in front of the mirror
but be assured, she primps her flowers so dear.
She removes spent blooms
and bushes she prunes.
She gushes over her newly-born monarchs with smiles.
Their cousins are admired when they visit for awhile
Rather viceroys, swallowtails, admirals or painted ladies,
this queen adores all her constituents; she's a classy lady.
Other subjects wave as they hurriedly wing on by.
Off to pollinate, they're happy their work day has arrived.
There's a buzz of contentment in the air
as these busy workers are employed to share.
In fact, an entire orchestra entertains
the queen on sunny days when there's no rain.
This orchestra considers each day a coronation,
rehearsing "pomp and circumstance," in celebration.
Her royal scepter dethrones
what has become overgrown.
Rather unwanted weeds or thorns,
into the compost they're thrown.
These free loaders which daily trespass
are not welcome in the queen's palace.
They are duly banished for they live a life of crime -
though transgressors reappear time after time.
My lady holds court with her dames, each one so cute.
That is, the vegetable garden which bears fruit.
For each blossom in her entourage,
she dubs a prayer to encourage.
Inspecting what grows
in neatly hoed rows,
this beaming queen is quite pleased
with blossoming beans and peas.
When the queen passes by,
some bystanders act shy.
The cabbages hunker down
in their round bed on the ground.
Others stand at attention
to view the queen's reaction.
They aim to please her royal highness and they do
as they bask in the sunshine or when covered with dew.
She bows a curtsy to see
blossoms formed so perfectly.
There are pots of gold which soon will turn into squash.
Yellow blossoms on the tomatoes, a summer-time must.
Her royal duties have been accomplished
when vegetables are served in a dish.
A rainbow of healthy goodness.
Everything does taste de-lish.
This queen's garden
is her kingdom
where she daily reigns
from her throne supreme.
And her subjects are as happy as can be -
rather flowers, vegetables, birds or bees -
when she strolls among the beauty of creation,
her "garden of Eden", her little bit of heaven.
* * * * *
Though this garden queen may not wear a crown,
with God's love and compassion she is crowned.
These are just two of God's personal benefits promised for you and I.
Psalm 103 states, He also forgives, heals, redeems and satisfies.
Isaiah promises crowns of joy and beauty are bestowed
to replace times of confusion we experience on life's road.
Hebrews states we are crowned with glory and honor.
How come? Because we are God's children and heirs.
There will be times when our crown slips;
when we'll need to remember this:
God crowns us with unconditional love and compassion,
joy, beauty, glory and honor everlasting.
So wear your crown with grace.
Let God's Word embrace
then joy will replace
life's certain heartaches.
Praise the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits -
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with god things.
Psalm 103:2-5
Everlasting joy will crown their heads,
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 35:10
To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
Isaiah 62:3
What is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
You made him a little lower than the angels;
you crowned him with glory and honor.
Hebrews 2:6-7
but I have seen queens that be
reigning monarchs
over much yard work.
This queen may not primp in front of the mirror
but be assured, she primps her flowers so dear.
She removes spent blooms
and bushes she prunes.
She gushes over her newly-born monarchs with smiles.
Their cousins are admired when they visit for awhile
Rather viceroys, swallowtails, admirals or painted ladies,
this queen adores all her constituents; she's a classy lady.
Other subjects wave as they hurriedly wing on by.
Off to pollinate, they're happy their work day has arrived.
There's a buzz of contentment in the air
as these busy workers are employed to share.
In fact, an entire orchestra entertains
the queen on sunny days when there's no rain.
This orchestra considers each day a coronation,
rehearsing "pomp and circumstance," in celebration.
Her royal scepter dethrones
what has become overgrown.
Rather unwanted weeds or thorns,
into the compost they're thrown.
These free loaders which daily trespass
are not welcome in the queen's palace.
They are duly banished for they live a life of crime -
though transgressors reappear time after time.
My lady holds court with her dames, each one so cute.
That is, the vegetable garden which bears fruit.
For each blossom in her entourage,
she dubs a prayer to encourage.
Inspecting what grows
in neatly hoed rows,
this beaming queen is quite pleased
with blossoming beans and peas.
When the queen passes by,
some bystanders act shy.
The cabbages hunker down
in their round bed on the ground.
Others stand at attention
to view the queen's reaction.
They aim to please her royal highness and they do
as they bask in the sunshine or when covered with dew.
She bows a curtsy to see
blossoms formed so perfectly.
There are pots of gold which soon will turn into squash.
Yellow blossoms on the tomatoes, a summer-time must.
Her royal duties have been accomplished
when vegetables are served in a dish.
A rainbow of healthy goodness.
Everything does taste de-lish.
This queen's garden
is her kingdom
where she daily reigns
from her throne supreme.
And her subjects are as happy as can be -
rather flowers, vegetables, birds or bees -
when she strolls among the beauty of creation,
her "garden of Eden", her little bit of heaven.
* * * * *
Though this garden queen may not wear a crown,
with God's love and compassion she is crowned.
These are just two of God's personal benefits promised for you and I.
Psalm 103 states, He also forgives, heals, redeems and satisfies.
Isaiah promises crowns of joy and beauty are bestowed
to replace times of confusion we experience on life's road.
Hebrews states we are crowned with glory and honor.
How come? Because we are God's children and heirs.
There will be times when our crown slips;
when we'll need to remember this:
God crowns us with unconditional love and compassion,
joy, beauty, glory and honor everlasting.
So wear your crown with grace.
Let God's Word embrace
then joy will replace
life's certain heartaches.
Praise the Lord, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits -
who forgives all your sins
and heals all your diseases,
who redeems your life from the pit
and crowns you with love and compassion,
who satisfies your desires with god things.
Psalm 103:2-5
Everlasting joy will crown their heads,
Gladness and joy will overtake them,
and sorrow and sighing will flee away.
Isaiah 35:10
To bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes,
the oil of gladness instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair.
Isaiah 62:3
What is man that you are mindful of him,
the son of man that you care for him?
You made him a little lower than the angels;
you crowned him with glory and honor.
Hebrews 2:6-7
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
Volume II
Life Is a Garden Party, Volume II
is now available through:
WestBow Press
Barnes & Noble
Amazon
Christian Book Stores
For those of you who would like signed copies,
my shipment will be arriving mid-July.
I will calculate price including shipping at that time.
If you would like to reserve a copy, please advise.
Thank you.
Woman Power
No tractor,
no tiller,
no power equipment,
(perhaps a determent),
for my many garden tasks clearly
rely on woman power from me,
my wheelbarrow, myself and I.
There's much to do today - bye-bye.
With a shovel,
or a trowel,
and my red wheelbarrow,
I make many furrows
in the soil.
Yes, it's toil -
but it pays off in the end
as I dig to share with friends,
or enlarge existing beds,
or redesign beds instead.
With the loper
or a pruner,
the welcome gift of hand saw
or the telescoping saw,
I cut and saw
and trim all
the branches, limbs, and canes
once a year again
from the roses, shrubs or trees
on a day when there'a nice breeze.
With a rake
I rake
piles of leaves
then I sneeze.
There's no end
as I tend
each November.
Leaves then slumber
and so does my rake
until spring awakes.
Because I have no tractor
nor a rototiller,
my garden chores are
done through woman power,
a shovel,
a trowel,
a rake, a loper,
or a pruner -
and much muscle and determination
until day's end calls for termination.
There's also much sweat equity, low priced.
Sometimes a little blood is sacrificed.
A stiffness in my back and hands
as I work to manicure the land.
There's soil-stained fingers and socks
as I re-purpose found rocks.
There's a suntan felt at the end of the day.
Gardening often feels like work, not play.
But tomorrow is another day...
in which this gardener can't wait to play!
* * * * *
There's another strength
that gives us strength.
It's God's strength that comes
just when it's most welcome.
All you have to do is simply ask
and God's strength empowers for each task -
rather physical, mental or emotional,
God answers your request with a strength that's spiritual.
You will never be able to purchase it in a bottle.
This strength can help you overcome what seems impossible.
Yes, God's strength will help you win
when you ask for help from Him.
His incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength.
Ephesians 1:19
Him who is able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to His power that is at work within us.
Ephesians 3:20
no tiller,
no power equipment,
(perhaps a determent),
for my many garden tasks clearly
rely on woman power from me,
my wheelbarrow, myself and I.
There's much to do today - bye-bye.
With a shovel,
or a trowel,
and my red wheelbarrow,
I make many furrows
in the soil.
Yes, it's toil -
but it pays off in the end
as I dig to share with friends,
or enlarge existing beds,
or redesign beds instead.
With the loper
or a pruner,
the welcome gift of hand saw
or the telescoping saw,
I cut and saw
and trim all
the branches, limbs, and canes
once a year again
from the roses, shrubs or trees
on a day when there'a nice breeze.
With a rake
I rake
piles of leaves
then I sneeze.
There's no end
as I tend
each November.
Leaves then slumber
and so does my rake
until spring awakes.
Because I have no tractor
nor a rototiller,
my garden chores are
done through woman power,
a shovel,
a trowel,
a rake, a loper,
or a pruner -
and much muscle and determination
until day's end calls for termination.
There's also much sweat equity, low priced.
Sometimes a little blood is sacrificed.
A stiffness in my back and hands
as I work to manicure the land.
There's soil-stained fingers and socks
as I re-purpose found rocks.
There's a suntan felt at the end of the day.
Gardening often feels like work, not play.
But tomorrow is another day...
in which this gardener can't wait to play!
* * * * *
There's another strength
that gives us strength.
It's God's strength that comes
just when it's most welcome.
All you have to do is simply ask
and God's strength empowers for each task -
rather physical, mental or emotional,
God answers your request with a strength that's spiritual.
You will never be able to purchase it in a bottle.
This strength can help you overcome what seems impossible.
Yes, God's strength will help you win
when you ask for help from Him.
His incomparably great power for us who believe.
That power is like the working of his mighty strength.
Ephesians 1:19
Him who is able to do
immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to His power that is at work within us.
Ephesians 3:20
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Re-purposed
At my house retaining walls are made from stones;
re-purposed into a new usefulness born.
Fitting together, however,
takes the art of being clever.
Straight sides matched,
notches patched.
Inventive,
decorative.
Reminds me of patchwork,
this re-purposed stonework
laid side by side,
narrow with wide.
Rectangles,
triangles,
squares
paired.
Do these stones represent life's hard knocks?
Perhaps true and, yes, there are lots.
Each hard knock is a piece
that unsettles your peace.
It will shape your attitude
to be one of angst or gratitude.
Attitude, though, is your own choice
that would bring you down or rejoice.
Hard knocks are not meant to defeat us.
Their purpose is meant to define us.
More kind, refined,
letting our light shine.
Next time you see a stone retaining wall
which over the years has stood strong and tall
think of the patchwork pieces of your life
joined together by many joys with some strife.
These pieces make a whole
in the end making you whole
for though hard knocks feels like you're in a hole
the work of re-purposing is its goal.
You'll find when you're on the other side of it
you'll be changed and better off for it.
Remember the school of hard knocks
is an opportunity that knocks.
Metamorphosis
will transform us.
Re-purposed
with a new purpose.
* * * * *
Sometimes when opportunity knocks
all we want is to find a way out.
To turn the clock back in time to yesterday, quickly
for it doesn't feel like an opportunity.
We find change makes us unsure.
We don't like feeling insecure.
Change, though, matures our faith
as it's a testing of our faith.
It's when we learn to trust
and rest in faith, it's just
believing God is able to turn it into good
if we patiently wait in faith, like we know we should.
Waiting, a testing to grow us up.
Sometimes an overflowing cup
of unknown blessings to be discovered
as we pick up the pieces and recover.
Now with a new purpose.
One that refines us.
All those broken pieces will fit together like a beautiful patchwork.
When we allow God to piece us back together, we discover our worth.
Consider it pure joy
whenever you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
Perseverance must finish its work
so that you may be mature and complete,
not lacking anything.
James 1:3-4
For we are God's workmanship,
created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10
re-purposed into a new usefulness born.
Fitting together, however,
takes the art of being clever.
Straight sides matched,
notches patched.
Inventive,
decorative.
Reminds me of patchwork,
this re-purposed stonework
laid side by side,
narrow with wide.
Rectangles,
triangles,
squares
paired.
Do these stones represent life's hard knocks?
Perhaps true and, yes, there are lots.
Each hard knock is a piece
that unsettles your peace.
It will shape your attitude
to be one of angst or gratitude.
Attitude, though, is your own choice
that would bring you down or rejoice.
Hard knocks are not meant to defeat us.
Their purpose is meant to define us.
More kind, refined,
letting our light shine.
Next time you see a stone retaining wall
which over the years has stood strong and tall
think of the patchwork pieces of your life
joined together by many joys with some strife.
These pieces make a whole
in the end making you whole
for though hard knocks feels like you're in a hole
the work of re-purposing is its goal.
You'll find when you're on the other side of it
you'll be changed and better off for it.
Remember the school of hard knocks
is an opportunity that knocks.
Metamorphosis
will transform us.
Re-purposed
with a new purpose.
* * * * *
Sometimes when opportunity knocks
all we want is to find a way out.
To turn the clock back in time to yesterday, quickly
for it doesn't feel like an opportunity.
We find change makes us unsure.
We don't like feeling insecure.
Change, though, matures our faith
as it's a testing of our faith.
It's when we learn to trust
and rest in faith, it's just
believing God is able to turn it into good
if we patiently wait in faith, like we know we should.
Waiting, a testing to grow us up.
Sometimes an overflowing cup
of unknown blessings to be discovered
as we pick up the pieces and recover.
Now with a new purpose.
One that refines us.
All those broken pieces will fit together like a beautiful patchwork.
When we allow God to piece us back together, we discover our worth.
Consider it pure joy
whenever you face trials of many kinds,
because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.
Perseverance must finish its work
so that you may be mature and complete,
not lacking anything.
James 1:3-4
For we are God's workmanship,
created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Ephesians 2:10
Friday, June 6, 2014
Rain
Rain greens the grass like a can of paint,
like applied fertilizer can't.
There's a luminous brightness
greening the grass with a freshness.
Aglow
it grows
overnight,
polished bright.
Blooms tip heavenward to receive
the rain falling on blades and leaves.
Rain welcomed
in gardens
where there's a colorful rainbow on the ground -
red, yellow orange, blue, green, purple is found.
More will be found tomorrow, you'll find,
when their petals unfurl in the sunshine.
Birds singing in the rain shower.
Their tune as bright as the flowers.
Cheerfully they take a bath
as the rain shower does pass.
Others hover
under cover.
Some cover their little ones
when the rain comes down on them.
Rain cools the air
and scents the air
with a freshness
and cleanness
while clouds pass over
so that others
to the east will receive
as a breeze stirs the leaves.
When rain comes in the middle of the night,
it will become a lullaby tonight
for this shower
passing over
is like a blessing
everlasting
sent from God above
with abiding love.
Even though rain grows more weeds,
it's still a blessing, indeed,
for a free exercise program awaits.
Everyday there's an expected date.
Weeds call my name
after the rain
softens the earth making easier weeding.
I find the end result is always pleasing.
This week rain is forecasted every day.
Between the showers you'll find me today
putting on my gardening boots
for it's a good time to uproot
those weed seeds the sprout overnight
pushing their way into sight.
I hear the birds singing.
It's time for weeding...
* * * * *
Sunshine, rain, and the brown earth
are needed to give birth
to seeds
and weeds.
God's Son made a way when He come to earth
to ensure those who believe a second birth
when we believe
then receive.
In this second birth we become children of God
Who dwells within to guide us on the path we trod
for earth is our temporal home.
Heaven is our eternal home.
Our journey on earth will be full of difficulties,
disappointments, sorrows, trouble and a lot of worries -
all of which are temporary,
seemingly making us contrary.
The Bible tells us to expect
life to be less than perfect.
And the Bible also promises abiding hope,
for Jesus has overcome and will help us cope.
So when a little rain rains on your parade,
in the form of troubles which sometimes cascade,
remember adversity builds trust
which in turn will build ones faith up.
I tell you the truth,
no one can see the kingdom of God
unless he is born again.
John 3:3
For our light and momentary troubles
are achieving for us on eternal glory
that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen
but on what is unseen.
For what is seen in temporary,
but what is unseen is eternal.
II Corinthians 4:17-18
In the world you will have trouble.
But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith,
we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
through whom we have gained access by faith
into this grace in which we now stand.
And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings,
because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:1-4
I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy:
for thou has considered my trouble;
thou hast known my soul in adversities.
Psalm 31:7 (KJV)
like applied fertilizer can't.
There's a luminous brightness
greening the grass with a freshness.
Aglow
it grows
overnight,
polished bright.
Blooms tip heavenward to receive
the rain falling on blades and leaves.
Rain welcomed
in gardens
where there's a colorful rainbow on the ground -
red, yellow orange, blue, green, purple is found.
More will be found tomorrow, you'll find,
when their petals unfurl in the sunshine.
Birds singing in the rain shower.
Their tune as bright as the flowers.
Cheerfully they take a bath
as the rain shower does pass.
Others hover
under cover.
Some cover their little ones
when the rain comes down on them.
Rain cools the air
and scents the air
with a freshness
and cleanness
while clouds pass over
so that others
to the east will receive
as a breeze stirs the leaves.
When rain comes in the middle of the night,
it will become a lullaby tonight
for this shower
passing over
is like a blessing
everlasting
sent from God above
with abiding love.
Even though rain grows more weeds,
it's still a blessing, indeed,
for a free exercise program awaits.
Everyday there's an expected date.
Weeds call my name
after the rain
softens the earth making easier weeding.
I find the end result is always pleasing.
This week rain is forecasted every day.
Between the showers you'll find me today
putting on my gardening boots
for it's a good time to uproot
those weed seeds the sprout overnight
pushing their way into sight.
I hear the birds singing.
It's time for weeding...
* * * * *
Sunshine, rain, and the brown earth
are needed to give birth
to seeds
and weeds.
God's Son made a way when He come to earth
to ensure those who believe a second birth
when we believe
then receive.
In this second birth we become children of God
Who dwells within to guide us on the path we trod
for earth is our temporal home.
Heaven is our eternal home.
Our journey on earth will be full of difficulties,
disappointments, sorrows, trouble and a lot of worries -
all of which are temporary,
seemingly making us contrary.
The Bible tells us to expect
life to be less than perfect.
And the Bible also promises abiding hope,
for Jesus has overcome and will help us cope.
So when a little rain rains on your parade,
in the form of troubles which sometimes cascade,
remember adversity builds trust
which in turn will build ones faith up.
I tell you the truth,
no one can see the kingdom of God
unless he is born again.
John 3:3
For our light and momentary troubles
are achieving for us on eternal glory
that far outweighs them all.
So we fix our eyes not on what is seen
but on what is unseen.
For what is seen in temporary,
but what is unseen is eternal.
II Corinthians 4:17-18
In the world you will have trouble.
But take heart! I have overcome the world.
John 16:33
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith,
we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,
through whom we have gained access by faith
into this grace in which we now stand.
And we rejoice in the hope of the glory of God.
Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings,
because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:1-4
I will be glad and rejoice in thy mercy:
for thou has considered my trouble;
thou hast known my soul in adversities.
Psalm 31:7 (KJV)
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Hours
Yellow butterflies flutter overhead
while bees sip from blooming clover heads
where - surprise - green grasshoppers leap
and other creatures creep on silent feet
in the flowers
where they spend hours.
Hummingbirds visit for a minute
when they sip from red flower trumpets
amidst the black ants crawling
and striped bees pollinating
in the flowers
where they spend hours.
Crickets are heard at night loudly strumming
while bees are at work all day humming.
This gardener enjoys their music
everyday when she goes out to harvest
in the flowers
where she spends hours.
There's the caw-caw of the blue jays
adding to the music made
while other birds sing along
in joyful chorus all day long
in the (sun)flowers
where they spend hours.
Pulling weeds makes its own music
as the clock goes tick, tick, tick.
Weeding is never done, there's always one more
to pull, under the sunshine in the outdoors
in the flowers
where I spend hours.
* * * * *
How fast time goes
when outdoors
under the sun
having fun.
How slow time goes
when indoors
waiting,
praying...
at the hospital
where time seems to stall.
When time almost stands still,
but emotions won't sit still.
Casting down imaginations
should be printed on a sign
to remind all of us
to have faith, hope and trust,
to not let our imagination run away from us
but to have believing faith and hope in God whom we trust
to work all things together for our best and good
even though the present circumstance may not be good.
Cast down whatever you are imagining
and put your trust in God with faith believing.
Peace will replace the unrest
and your spirit will be at rest.
Time will tick by
as the minutes fly.
Waiting.
Praying.
Praying for God's peace
to replace the unease.
Waiting for miracles
to help your faith grow.
Casting down imaginations...
II Corinthians 10:5
We know that in all things
God works for the good of those who love him,
who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
while bees sip from blooming clover heads
where - surprise - green grasshoppers leap
and other creatures creep on silent feet
in the flowers
where they spend hours.
Hummingbirds visit for a minute
when they sip from red flower trumpets
amidst the black ants crawling
and striped bees pollinating
in the flowers
where they spend hours.
Crickets are heard at night loudly strumming
while bees are at work all day humming.
This gardener enjoys their music
everyday when she goes out to harvest
in the flowers
where she spends hours.
There's the caw-caw of the blue jays
adding to the music made
while other birds sing along
in joyful chorus all day long
in the (sun)flowers
where they spend hours.
Pulling weeds makes its own music
as the clock goes tick, tick, tick.
Weeding is never done, there's always one more
to pull, under the sunshine in the outdoors
in the flowers
where I spend hours.
* * * * *
How fast time goes
when outdoors
under the sun
having fun.
How slow time goes
when indoors
waiting,
praying...
at the hospital
where time seems to stall.
When time almost stands still,
but emotions won't sit still.
Casting down imaginations
should be printed on a sign
to remind all of us
to have faith, hope and trust,
to not let our imagination run away from us
but to have believing faith and hope in God whom we trust
to work all things together for our best and good
even though the present circumstance may not be good.
Cast down whatever you are imagining
and put your trust in God with faith believing.
Peace will replace the unrest
and your spirit will be at rest.
Time will tick by
as the minutes fly.
Waiting.
Praying.
Praying for God's peace
to replace the unease.
Waiting for miracles
to help your faith grow.
Casting down imaginations...
II Corinthians 10:5
We know that in all things
God works for the good of those who love him,
who have been called according to his purpose.
Romans 8:28
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