_TRIBUTE TO A FRIEND
_In September of 2007 a close friend
passed away after a long battle with illness. Despite this type of loss, comfort comes with the awareness that the person is no longer in physical or emotional pain, which finally brings peace and closure to the issue. Jo is with the Lord. She always wanted to do something great for God, but her physical limitations frustrated that dream. However, her cheerfulness and tremendous talent and sensitivity were her great gifts from God, and those type of gifts have a way of continuing to give even after the individual has passed on to glory. One of her goals had been to prepare some of her writing for the internet. Lack of time and physical strength prevented that from happening, a tragic loss, but I do have one poem of hers to share here as a tribute to her life, her compassion, and her desire to tell others about the Lord. I miss the laughs Jo, but I know you're so very happy now. Save a seat for me in the heavenly choir. |
_DON'T HURT THE OIL
_Oil lamps have lost their use,
We've come so far... We've built a city to the heavens, We found a way to light the night Driving in our fancy cars, And the only oil we need Is every 3000 miles. We're good to go Through rain or snow, Back and forth to work Reaching for the stars. Our only focus is what we gain While saving some time To keep us sane, But not enough to give away. So much oil left unused And hoarded by a few Passed around on Holy ground When the plate is passed by too. Don't hurt the oil I once read And I wondered what it meant. I'd seen hurting mobs packed In stadiums hoping for a touch, The praise was loud, The tears were real, The claps were begging God to hear And take away their pain. Yet many leave exhausted After working up their faith And tomorrow comes again And nothing seems to change. I haven't lost my faith in God, I know He's very real-- I've lost my trust in institutions Used to house God's zeal. I wonder? When the oil comes To fill these empty vessels-- The louder the music Or more beautiful the song Can't be the only way That the Spirit comes along. I know He comes at quiet times When no one is around. I think I'll go and wait for Him, I'll find some Holy ground. There won't be loud songs to sing, Or dancing or shouting hallelujah. I just want some quiet time Just to get to know You. Maybe I can get a little Of that oil I heard spoke in part, Not for my car or furnace, But for my hurting heart. Sharing this oil with others Would bring great joy to me, Since Jesus bought me with His life, And His gift to me is free. I'd like to savor His love and joy, But I think I'll give it away, His promise is real And people should know That His oil flows every day. |