Forgive we Must

Because she's not the favored son
Her saddest thought, What have I done
To earn my lot, the unloved one
Why am I not a chosen one

Forgive she must, but it is hard
When life's unjust, and she's been scarred
It's hard to trust, not be on guard
She must adjust, anger discard

Forgiveness is much easier
When things of his become a blur
All 'round us is a reminder
It's mostly his, not shared with her

We've got to go, we cannot stay
The pain and woe, drive us away
No clan meadow, no happy day
One owns the show, the rest can't stay

Sometimes we need to go away
So we are freed from pain's replay
From others' greed, we'd face each day
We must recede, find our own way

A Kingdom not from Here

So then Pilate sauntered back inside
Are you the king of the Jews, he cried
Jesus asked, Are you under the gun?
Pilate blamed the priests, What have you done?

Jesus said, My Kingdom's not from earth
Or my men would fight for all they're worth
They'd keep me from being handed o'er
But my Kingdom's not from here, what's more

Then Pilate said, So you are a king
Correct, He said, Truth I came to bring
And in this world, the truth is My choice
All who love the truth will hear My voice

John 18:33-37

Rejoice in the Lord

Rejoice in the Lord always
Let your gentleness be known
Rejoice, I say, Give Him praise
The Lord's near, you're not alone

Be anxious about nothing
But in everything by prayer
An appeal with thanksgiving
Your requests to God just share

And the peace of God transcends
Surpasses understanding
Guards your hearts and minds my friends
As in Jesus you're living

Philippians 4:4-7

An Eternal Rest & Promised Land

Is the Sabbath the rest that's blessed
Is the Promised Land what is best
No, none of them is our true rest
Another day remains our quest

Moses did not give Israel rest
Though they kept Sabbath, no contest
Joshua also gave no rest
Though the Promised Land they possessed

So Sabbath and land gave no rest
An eternal land is the quest
With diligence enter that rest
Draw near to God; keep what's confessed

Hebrews 3 & 4

I Feel Sorry for the Snob

I feel so sorry for the snob
Who thinks he's the best of the mob
When the best's often quite unseen
Someone that he might just demean

First there's the intellectual snob
Whose arrogance himself does rob
He's blinded by ability
And lacking in humility

And then there is the wealthy snob
Who lives at ease while others sob
A life with fake friends who will leave
If he goes broke; he's so naive

And last there is the status snob
Who can't see past the world's snow job
Royalty and Hollywood fake
Are roads to personal heartache

Humility is the best way
For we'll all face the judgment day
Just like the grass we'll soon be gone
And snobbery is just a con

You Speak to Me

You speak to me Through ev'ry tree
And blade of grass That I can see
For who You are Shouts ev'ry star
Your hand does pass Both near and far

Even the bird Lives by Your word
And Your Spirit My conscience stirred
As I permit Your Holy Writ
I must admit You speak through it

Four Boys

We rushed to hospital; Our baby was coming
And little by little; The idea was numbing
Oh, small human being; What do we do with you
He's crying and screaming; And we don't have a clue
A Dad who has four boys; Is a Dad with great joys

The next one came early; With some complications
And not quite as burly; But filled expectations
He was the diplomat; But fought with a pick ax
Should have worn a hard hat; For such youthful impacts
A Dad who has four boys; Is a Dad with great joys

The next was born at home; Mother's easiest birth
Had musical syndrome; Played drums with gleeful mirth
Graduating college; With musical degree
And with rhythmic knowledge; A programmer is he
A Dad who has four boys; Is a Dad with great joys

Our fourth son had it tough; His mother hemorrhaged
The birth was really rough; She almost disengaged
But now he's a gamer; Because he loves to play
And he's a good saver; Saves for that rainy day
A Dad who has four boys; Is a Dad with great joys

Cocky and Doodle

Cocky and Doodle, neither lays
One attacks; the other I praise
Cocky I feed by hand each day
Doodle? I stay out of his way

Cocky is nice; Doodle is not
The hens like Cocky quite a lot
Poor Doodle often sleeps alone
And his sad life I do bemoan

So, you can choose what life to lead
The way you act will plant a seed
Be nice and you will reap what's sown
Be mean and you will sleep alone

Love

Don't be over-extravagant
Things are insignificant
And riches are unimportant
Love, and be a participant

Don't be harsh and unrepentant
Love others, don't be reluctant
Greed is rather irrelevant
Love is what's really triumphant

Bad leadership is malignant
Good leadership is attendant
Bad leaders are a pollutant
But good leaders are repentant

For all people are relevant
And peace between us is pleasant
And love is always tolerant
Yes love makes a people radiant

Butterfly

Outside I saw a butterfly
How do you exist, little guy?
Some say you're just an accident
The arrogance is ignorant

You must be part of a design
The evidence we must assign
Not to a fluke, not to good luck
But a plan that leaves us awestruck

A Tiny Little Bird

I walked out my door and I saw
A tiny little bird pecking seeds for its craw
How in the world do you survive
Who taught you to fly and how do you even thrive

And in winter where do you stay
And who wrote all of the code for your DNA
And foolish men say there's no God
That belief in a designer is just a fraud

How unscientific they are
To ignore all the evidence they've seen so far
To say that given enough time
The mathematically impossible will rhyme

You Got Your Knickers in a Twist

Dear friend, why did you go away
I heard you got your knickers in a twist today

Hurtful remarks are here to stay
Let's not get in a snit when offense comes our way
Don't forget we're all made of clay
And people say stupid things ev'ry single day
We must overlook what they say
Don't we all need a little grace along the way?

Is this like a three act ballet?
It happens three or four times a year in replay

Act 1 A few months you're away
Act 2 You come back and we hope you're gonna stay
Act 3 An offense comes your way
Because of one person you leave us in dismay
Are we like dust in an ashtray?
Do you hate us, to treat us like a throwaway?

Absquatulate

I hope you won't absquatulate
When sermons overcomplicate
We're trying to communicate
And hope we don't exasperate

Do you sit uncomprehending
Are we overdocumenting
Sledgehammering phrasemongering
Doctrine supersaturating

Someone of Faith You Just Might Be

If maybe your brother hates you
For loving God sincere and true
Someone of faith you just might be

Like Abel gave his best with glee

If you feel you're the only one
Who pleases God under the sun
Someone of faith you just might be
Like Enoch walked with God you see

If you alone heed God's warning
And you prepare every morning
Someone of faith you just might be
Like Noah and his family

If you obeyed God's holy Word
Following Him and not deterred

Someone of faith you just might be
Like Abraham went faithfully

If God's promises you've believed
And miraculous plans conceived
Someone of faith you just might be
Like Sarah God has heard your plea

If you've waited and not received
But eternity have perceived
Someone of faith you just might be
Like those of old lived faithfully

If you've refused worldly glory
To be in the Church's story
Someone of faith you just might be
Like Moses crossing the Red Sea

If you've ever been crucified
For doing right but someone lied
Someone of faith you just might be
Like God the Son upon that tree

If kin folk hate your faith in God
And when you suffer they applaud
Someone of faith you just might be
Beware the household enemy

If you have ever been hated
Preaching what the Bible stated
Someone of faith you just might be
Like preachers down through history

Blinded by Party Loyalty

A Democrat helps the poor
Although it's moral to the core
A Christian thing to do what's more
"Socialism!" is the uproar

A Republican saves the life
Of a child from abortion's knife
It's called taking choice from your wife
Giving children rights causes strife

If we label morality
Not by what's right but by party
Then when will we ever agree
Blinded by party loyalty

The Buck

Now the buck no longer stops here
It's the other guy's fault, you hear?
Those liberals, the Democrats
Or CNN those dirty rats
It's all fake news, I don't tell lies
And trade war won't be our demise

Accidents

A dazzling sunrise or sunset
One framed by dew, one a rosette
A palette made by accidents
Say atheists and malcontents

The perfect bird out in a tree
How does it fly free as can be
A miracle of accidents
Say atheists and malcontents

Tjikko is a very old tree
Old as all of humanity
A tree made by accidents
Say atheists and malcontents

Lying Politicians

Lying politicians left and right
Dividing us to win in their fight
Lying advertisers constantly
We just can't trust them for honesty

Lying carbon dating facts unknown
Acting like they know it all alone
Lying giving tax breaks for the rich
It's good for working men, is their pitch

Lying that the press is lying now
Men only believe what they allow
Sure the press lies but not all the time
The whole world lies it's the paradigm

Crazy Drivers

He ducks, weaves, driving like a nut
Tailgating, riding someone's butt
Cuts in front, leaving me no room
I slam on my brakes, and I fume

Next some guy cuts across two lanes
Almost killed, like he's got no brains
A truck driver slams on his brakes
Avoiding death with all it takes


Angry

Let me tell you that I'm angry
I feel like it's necessary
Maybe even mandatory
When people act predatory
Nations stealing territory
Treating neighbors secondary
Cheating, thieving, adultery
All throughout human history
And derisory snobbery
There's also too much bigotry
Now I'll give you a summary
Anger may be laudatory

Think on These Things

Finally, brothers, what is true
What's honorable, right to do
Whatever is pure, and 
lovely
Anything where praise is worthy
Of good repute, and excellence
Think on these things, live blessedness
Philippians 4:8

A Loud Car

A loud car is a stupid car
A quiet car is best by far
Who cares about that senseless note
It sounds just awful; that's my vote

And air-brakes on your truck are mean
At two a. m. they're just obscene
When coming into our small town
Show some respect and quiet down

Two Disgusting Parties

Two disgusting parties refuse
To admit how much they abuse
A baby doesn't get to choose
And poor folks are the ones that lose

Two heartless parties rule this land
One kills children who were not planned
And one puts children in remand
O when will we all take a stand

Republican or Democrat
Two diff'rent names but the same rat
One squashes the poor like a gnat
One treats babies like a door mat

Two ruling parties without heart
Bought and paid for right from the start
Two parties, each a counterpart
Peddling lies to drive us apart

The Faith

The faith once for all delivered
Something to be reconsidered
Communion wine was not grape juice
Why not return to Jesus' use
He chose twelve men and not a mix
Why not return to Jesus' picks

The husband of one wife Paul said
But we want our own way instead
Divorcees in the pulpit now
How many would Paul disallow
And husband or wife we now say
For we no longer go God's way

How far to rewrite history
Continue with this tragedy
Now our church has moved to Sodom
Oh how quickly we've forgotten
From the Bible to Babylon
Away from the faith we've been drawn

Twisting Your Ankle

Twisting your ankle is no fun
I don't wish it on anyone
It's all because you tried to run
Or walk straight but your ankle spun

Careful, it can happen again
And there it goes that same old sprain
Your lack of caution was in vain
So give it time, just use your brain

It happened half a dozen times
Though at first I stayed in confines
Then disregarded all the signs
Be careful, listen to the chimes

The Church Hopper

The church hopper walks on your heart
Always looking for a fresh start
This temporary church member
Will leave as quickly as enter

He claims to love God, but hates us
That makes him a liar. Don't fuss!
It says so, first John four twenty
And that really tells us plenty

He points out our imperfections
Some of which are misconceptions
For church is not a sinless place
But space for sinners saved by grace

Lies, Delusion, Self-Deception

Lies, delusion, self-deception
If exposed they take exception
Perhaps they have no perception
That truth is the best direction

And living one huge fantasy
Is intellectual bankruptcy
But surely it's a malady
Of our entire society

We live a lie from morn 'til night
We're so afraid the truth might bite
And we don't want to see the light
Exposing lies is impolite

So we pretend our life is great
We really haven't gained much weight
That we won't die if we tailgate
And death won't come, it has to wait

Do politicians really lie
Do advertisers falsify
Do reporters deceive thereby
Do we live true or live a lie

Inclusion

Beware the words false prophets weave
Intended only to deceive
"Inclusion" means condoning sin
It's liberal-progressive spin
"Progressive" means that they've moved on
From the Bible to Babylon

"Called" just means they want the power
Without morals or willpower
"Love" means unnatural requests
Like Sodom wanted from Lot's guests
"Abuse" means that the truth we'll tell
We don't want you to go to hell

Loving Daughter

What a loving daughter was she
Abandoning home and country
So she could bring her parents glee
And comforting that was her plea
In their last fling none could foresee
How long they'd cling and what would be
If anything last days would be
Then death does sting and they're set free
Now she can wing to her country
And do her thing, she's also free

Mockery and Ad Hominem

When we all sit in mockery
And think that scorn is comedy
When we mock others constantly
Well, that's just plain hypocrisy

When hearing an abusive speech
Don't mock, attack his overreach
Just formulate a better plan
Attack the logic not the man

Ad hominem's bad logic man
Unless competence is the plan
And credibility's less than
The virtue of an honest man

(Psalm 1:1c; Luke 11:37-54)

Entrepreneur

How do you say entrepreneur
Just like "tour" or the French word "fleur"
Is it like "cure" or like "chauffeur"
Like "brochure" or just like "prefer"

An entrepreneur needs a cure
If the business cannot endure
Perhaps he's an entrepren-oor
With a business that's too obscure

If an entrepreneur does well
Perhaps they have learned how to spell
Pronouncing words just like a belle
Just like a French mademoiselle

Someone is an entrepreneur
When their business begins to purr
And profits begin to occur
And days go so fast like a blur

No Restrooms in DC

There are no restrooms in DC
No toilets, no WC
I'm driving and I want to pee
No parking spots that I can see

Hey GPS can you help me
Find a toilet, that is my plea
It has no clue and I agree
Find a restaurant I decree

Not even just a nearby few
So far away? That can't be true
Let me see, a Subway will do
But there's no parking there for you

No gas stations with public loo
Will a hand held urinal do?
Stop the car, relief's overdue
I spilled it, now I'm soaked all through

Found an expensive place to park
And still no restroom, I remark
Surely an advanced school will do
But they won't let her use their loo

A lady's pity for my wife
The Brookings Institute gives life
What's wrong with Washington I muse
It's not the swamp; it's bathroom blues

Global Rover

A friend said my time was over
No more running through wild clover
No more playing global rover
Let the settled life take over

That was forty years ago now
And still I've made no final bow
Just one more trip I'll make somehow
I pray that my time will allow

When all my friends want to retire
I hope that I still have some fire
And when they all start to expire
Of new adventures I'll inquire

And when my time on earth is done
I won't look back on where I've run
And won't be missing any fun
The best adventure has begun

Psalm 5 Hear me Pray Lord

David’s Psalm for choral pursuit
To be accompanied by flute

Hear me pray Lord, to you I cry
My meditation as I sigh
I choose you as my God and King
This prayer to you alone I bring

O Lord, I pray in the morning
I look to you at day’s dawning
You find no thrill in wickedness
You do not welcome sinfulness

Before you boasting will not stand
Nor evil in your holy land
You will destroy the source of lies
Deceit and bloodshed you despise

I enter your house by your love
And bow to your Temple above
Among my enemies lead me
Make the way plain for me to see

Not a word from their mouth is true
Destruction is all that they view
Their words have the stench of a grave
And flattery is what they crave

God they are guilty one and all
By their evil counsel they fall
Drive them out, we don’t want their crimes
They’ve made trouble too many times

Let all who take refuge in you
Shout for joy, for you see us through
You bless the righteous all around
With a shield of love you surround

Postlude (Matthew 6:9-13)

Father in heaven, you’re the one
Who’s Name we give acclamation
We pray that your kingdom will come
That here on earth your will be done

That you fulfill our daily needs
And forgive us our sinful deeds
As we forgive sins against us
And keep us from enticing lust
Deliver us from the evil one
For yours is the kingdom. Amen

Psalm 4 Hear my Call God

David’s Psalm for a choir that sings
To be accompanied by strings

Hear my call, God my righteousness
You’ve relieved me in my distress
Hear my prayer, have mercy on me
Men try to shame me without plea

How long love vanity and lies?
Take a pause and learn to be wise
The Lord sets the godly apart
He hears when we call, so take heart

Be angry and yet do not sin
Pause in bed, let thinking begin
Offer righteous sacrifices
Put trust in the Lord’s devices

Many ask, “Who will bring us good?”
Lord, the Light of Your Presence would
You have put gladness in my heart
More than those with a great head start

More than those at a feast to dine
Who are well fed with grain and wine
I will lie down in peace to sleep
My life I know you’ll safely keep

Postlude (Matthew 1:21, 18:11; Luke 14:28)

She gave birth to Jesus her Son
He’ll save His people from all wrong
He came to save that which was lost
Now first sit down and count the cost

Psalm 3 How Many are My Foes

A song of David on the run
A coup by Absalom his son

O Lord, how many are my foes
Who rise against me to oppose
Many people want me to sink
"God won't rescue him!" Stop and think

O Lord for me you are a shield
You Lift my head, my honor sealed
I cry to the Lord with my voice
He heard from Zion. Pause, rejoice!

I lay down and then slept carefree
I woke for the Lord protects me
I don't fear ten thousand haters
Though they're evil perpetrators

Save me my God, Arise O Lord
My enemies are untoward
You break their teeth and smite their cheek
Compared to You they are so weak

Salvation belongs to the Lord
Bless your people! Pause, be restored!

Postlude (Matthew 9:10-13)

Jesus sat and ate with sinners
To turn losers into winners
He didn’t come to call the good
But help sinners do what they should

The Truth

It's scary to preach the truth
It's just like pulling a tooth
For folks deceived from their youth
Find true religion like Ruth

Some folks give a dirty look
When their foundation is shook
By words from the Holy Book
It's not a worldly outlook

It's easy to preach smooth things
Because God's Word sometimes stings
It even rebukes our kings
But the truth will give you wings

Psalm 2 Why are the Nations so Enraged

Why are the nations so enraged
And in futile plans so engaged
World rulers prepare for battle
Their plotting is foolish prattle

Against God and His anointed
"Let's break the shackles appointed
Let's not be slaves to God," they say
God will laugh as they turn away

The One who gives them breath will scoff
And speak to them as they mouth off
Yes in His anger He'll chastise
Frighten them to open their eyes

Jesus is the King of the world
From Zion were His plans unfurled
He is God's Son, the Father said
Begotten and His rule will spread

Inheriting the world throughout
Rebellion will be all wiped out
With rod of iron He will rule
And break up leadership that's cruel

Listen up all you men in charge
Who spread injustice by and large
It's time to serve the Lord with fear
Rejoice! The Son will soon be here

Submit lest He become irate
There's no more war and no more hate
Repent! Turn from a life that's grim
Happy are those who trust in Him

Postlude (Matthew 25:31-32)

When the Son of Man comes back here
He’ll sit upon His throne with cheer
And judge the nations sheep and goats
By what love of neighbor promotes

Psalm 1 Happy is the Man

Prelude (Matthew 5:3-6)

Happy are those who know they’re poor
Who mourn for sin and want much more
Happy are the humble and meek
Who hunger for what’s right this week

Psalm 1

Happy is the man who ignores
Anti-God rhetorical wars
And those who have no moral code
Who mock and decency corrode
But delights in heaven’s teaching
Meditates on the Lord's preaching

I know that he is like a tree
By rivers where the water's free
That bears its fruit abundantly
Thriving leaves and prosperity

An atheist's life is not so
It's like the chaff the wind does blow
When judgment comes he'll be condemned
A sinner will no church attend
The godly man the Lord preserves
The sinner gets what he deserves

Postlude (Matthew 5:7-12)

So happy are the merciful
A heart that’s with purity full
Happy are all those who make peace
When persecution does increase

Our World

How many countries in the world? Got a clue?
Officially there are about one ninety two
But with countries within countries there are more
Two forty seven countries make up the score

America's really one continent friend
And Afro-Eurasia is also one blend
Australia, Antarctica make it just four
I don't really think we should count any more

How many islands in all the world's oceans?
Over a million by some counting notions
Others say that there's a more logical count
And maybe two thousand's a better amount

How many mountains are there that we can count?
Fourteen over eight thousand meters to mount
And how many rivers do you think there are?
A hundred sixty five major ones so far

Coffee

Maybe I'll have an Espresso
Or please make me a Galão
Or what about a Cortado
If not then a Cappuccino

Australian milk coffee tastes good
A Latte is misunderstood
And a Café au lait I could
But a Flat white is what I should

A Long black is quite strong to me
And Mocha is not really tea
Affogato will you agree
Like Bombon sounds somewhat carefree

Whether Turkish, iced, hot or cold
Many kinds of coffee are sold
Some are mild and some are quite bold
The choice is really manifold

Global Nomad

The life of a global nomad
A home country as a launch pad
The world to roam without a home
Always excited, often sad

Missing dear folks back at home
And itchy feet wanting to roam
Your Mum and Dad, missing them bad
Sad goodbyes at the aerodrome

Those foreign clothes in your wardrobe
Friends scattered all over the globe
Bigotry shrunk, prejudice sunk
Languages in your frontal lobe

They say home's not home anymore
They moved on while you were offshore
Don't scorn their myth, nor bore them with
Those stories that people deplore

Weak-Willed Contrition

Don't take a neutral position
As evil gains in its mission
Don't let a wicked condition
Gain ground by weak-willed contrition

Put on the whole armor of God
Our fight's not against flesh and blood
Your feet with the Gospel are shod
As a sword use the Word of God

Labels

What really is a progressive?
...do you mean revised regressive?
So what is a conservative?
...conserve the earth is negative?

What is a fundamentalist?
...unforgiving judgmentalist?
And so what is a liberal?
...new legalism visceral?

And what's an Evangelical?
... conservative or liberal?
Now orthodox means teaching right
...a word that seems to shine a light

Like Joseph

Like Joseph sent so far away
Where are we headed, Lord I pray
Will we go far or will we stay
Will You be with us, come what may

Like Joseph's brothers cheated him
Sometimes life can look rather grim
Enslavement, prison, hope was dim
But God was there, always with him

Like Joseph's end was full of glee
I wonder what you have for me
Some forest land down by the sea
A house on stilts high as a tree

If We Don't Obey

In my mind our church no longer exists
It takes the Bible and severely twists
It around and says what the world insists
There's little left of what goodness consists

The whole thing began a long time ago
Gender confusion they began to sow
Unholy perversion began to grow
We all sin but don't promote it you know

Now we promote sin and call it okay
We can't be a church if we don't obey
What will the Lord say to this group someday
Time to leave Babylon and go away

Heaven's Just the Beginning

Heaven's just the beginning of
What God is planning in His love
The souls 'neath heaven's altar pray
For those of us on earth today

Christ returns then resurrection
A thousand years of perfection
New Jerusalem will descend
And God will dwell with us my friend

And then for all eternity
With God we'll have fraternity
And peace on earth will finally
Exist in our society

Another Day, Another Tweet

Another day, another tweet
What will this say? Stay in your seat
Is it doomsday? Who's on the street?
I'm turning grey, it's not upbeat

This constant blitz, non-stop barrage
The childish fits, don't camouflage
This is the pits, a sabotage
Of all our wits, a fraud's mirage

The swamp's been drained and in its place
A desert stained with more disgrace
Relations strained with every race
And nothing gained, not anyplace

Men and Women

I'm angry at the men who've let the male side down
At those who groped women and acted like a clown
You've also let the women down you should protect
Men were meant to look after women, show respect

I'm angry at women who've let the male side down
A man needs building up; not run into the ground
You've also let the women down who love their men
You crush them to zero when they should be a ten

We need to build each other up, expect the best
Only when we work together can we be blessed
When men and women work together it's all good
That one is better than the other's a falsehood

Wondering

Wondering where my life will lead
How will I fare? Will I succeed?
You're always there with every need
Please hear my prayer, for help I plead
I do despair, help me proceed
Just take me where your hand does lead

Waiting for the Dying

Waiting for the dying to die
You are asleep, we sit and cry
It takes so long to say goodbye
Where did life go? How time did fly?

Waiting for the dying to die
Didn't always see eye to eye
Can't change that now, too late to try
Overall your were a great guy

Waiting for the dying to die
See you in glory by and by
I hope God lets me up on high
Some day my turn will come to die

A Tie

Why do men have to wear a tie
A tie is not a man's ally
It's torture. There's no reason why.
What if I don't want to comply?

This persecution of a guy
The distress caused us by the tie
There should be a greater outcry
We don't need them, let's simplify

Beulah Land

Zion, hill where the temple stood
A place for prayer, and all that's good
Once deserted and desolate
Disconcerted, childless her fate

But God's delight is in her now
Now dressed in white keeping her vow
Beulah's her name, she will submit
No more to blame, she will commit

As a young bridegroom rejoices
Over his bride for her choices
As she submits to her bridegroom
A love that fits, their joy will bloom

That's not the end, there's more ahead
Heaven my friend, hope of the dead
Zion above, Beulah the Bride
Christ shares his love, for her he died

Isaiah 62

A Phone Call from a Homeless Man

A phone call from a homeless man
And so a strange journey began
"You're a church. You're a clergyman.
Help the needy is your game plan."

"Yes," I said, "We help those in need."
"I'm tired," he barked, "Don't make me plead?
I need a ride, please intercede."
I hesitatingly agreed

Unsure about this rambling man
I frisked him, did a thorough scan
Before he got in my sedan
A cop stopped by — heroic man

I told him of my kindly deed
He said such acts weren't guaranteed
But wished me well and so God's speed
It ended well, thankful indeed

He got where he desired to go
No hijack, just a ride you know
A man who lives down on skid row
I wished him well and let him go

On Your Dying Bed

When you're lying on your dying bed
Is there remorse for the things you've said
Remembering people long since dead
Regretting words that were left unsaid

Do you think about mistakes you've made
And sins of your youth that Jesus paid
And now as your life begins to fade
Are you good with God? We know you've prayed

Because we sure pray for you dear one
There's no finer man under the sun
Not perfect, but you've had a good run
Forget all the things you've left undone

Sacred duty has been placed upon
All of us who'll miss you when you're gone
You gave a legacy, a baton
Of prayer and church which we'll carry on

You Hate Church Folk

You hate church folk. I understand.
We often choke, the Lord's command
So you invoke a reprimand
We are a joke, a wretched band

Thank God for grace and mercy too
On our disgrace, our Waterloo
Or we would face a dimmer view
But we embrace a life that's new

And don't forget you also need
To beat the threat of hell indeed
Do you regret your evil deed
We all owe debt for sin, concede

So do you go to hospital
And torpedo or belittle
The sick and low, while they're brittle
The sin-sick though, you will skittle

We know we are a sinful band
But it's bizarre, in God we stand
And we'll go far by God's command
A superstar thanks to God's hand

The Devolution of the Razor Blade

The early razor was a knife
Shave that beard to look like your wife
Hey smooth skin will improve your life
Don't look manly and don't make strife

Next came the straight razor along
The problem was it lasted long
We make low profits, they are wrong
Let's lie that beards just don't belong

Make blades extinct like facial hair
Don't let them know the wear and tear
"Safety razor" sounds like we care
There's profit in a public scare

Now it's time to devolve again
The throw away, more profit then
The bottom line will grow times ten
Aren't we such sneaky businessmen

So profit dictates facial hair
The stallion's turned into a mare
Ignore the razor billionaire
Grow back your manly facial hair

We Can't Trust You

Advertiser we can't trust you
The poison you put in our brew
Who knows the harm that it will do
And you don't care; you have no clue

Talcum that's soft upon the skin
Will cause us cancer, do us in
The pill you say heals us within
Caused the kidneys to pack it in

You lie and cheat and steal all day
And we're the ones that have to pay
We'll take one off the shelf today
By morning there's a new puree

The next snake oil is ready now
To spray the crop and feed the cow
Why we don't even have to plow
But we've got cancer, don't know how

We've Lost our Way in Babylon

We've lost our way in Babylon
With no good guide to lean upon
Perverse is now the new normal
Marriage has become informal
Children grow without mom and dad
Your dad's now Jill; your mom's now Brad

We've lost our way in Babylon
With no good guide to lean upon
Should you marry your cat or dog
Your cow now thinks that she's a hog
And down is up and up is down
A man's made out to be a clown

We've lost our way in Babylon
With no good guide to lean upon
Shootings and gang barbarity
Selfish pride and no charity
What we all need's a change of heart
Return to God, a brand new start

Free

Slave owners said they made us free
Then stole land from the Cherokee
And now people just want to flee
The land of the school shooting spree

That's the current reality
Political insanity
Distress has grown stageringly
Of freedom there's no guarantee

The Beast

The beast rising out of the sea
The devil gave authority
Seven heads and ten horns you see
Men worshiped him reverently

The beast coming out of the earth
'Twas evil had given him birth
666 his number was worth
Made fire come from heaven to earth

And all those who worship the beast
From the greatest down to the least
Got a mark so that they could feast
And many saints became deceased

Evil comes from both earth and sea
Not heaven but humanity
It promises we will be free
But enslavement is its decree

Heaven Lent Her

She won't enter a talent show
She's no presenter on the radio
No inventor of a gizmo
Experimenter, politico

At the center of life below
Some resent her but they don't know
God has lent her until I go
Heaven sent her to make life glow

We are the Blessed

You caused us pain, we were distressed
You wanted gain; we were oppressed
You did disdain our life's request
You did campaign to take the best
To drink champagne while we're depressed
We are the slain, the dispossessed
We can't complain; we have the best
Heaven is gain; we are the blessed

Final Days

As life begins its final days
And one life's sins still cause a blaze
No medicines can clear the haze
Nobody wins; the fallout stays

The only thing that we can do
Forget the sting; forgive anew
Our final swing is coming too
Remembering God forgave you

We push and shove throughout life's span
It's time for love, a better plan
Forgiveness of our fellow man
For God above says that we can

Wedding Day Blessed

May I suggest your wedding day
Would be more blessed and less to pay

And far less stressed if you downplay
Be simply dressed not so cliche

No fashion quest, no big display
A simple fest, no big buffet

Just vows attest and fly away
And build your nest, not just one day

Wedding Day Regrets

Tomorrow is your wedding day
Did you stay faithful? Did you stray?
A virgin is most blessed I say
But if you've spoiled your special day
Because you sinned, take time to pray
God will forgive without delay
Tomorrow is another day
Forget the sins of yesterday
Relax! Enjoy your wedding day!

Two Thousand Lies

Two thousand lies so goes the count
Your first year in, a gross amount
But not to worry, we can say
Merry Christmas without dismay

Pretending that you are devout
But immigrants, just kick them out
And fight with everyone to show
That love of neighbor you don't know

The poor, the sick, you do betray
You'll save the unborn, so you say
But if you're born and black or brown
You'll get no justice in this town

You'll make us great or so you say
But you're the beast and we're the prey
And everything has gone askew
And you don't really have a clue

That's Poker

Double aces, let's go all in
Rivers three kings, well I can't win
A pair of kings, again all in
A straight, I take it on the chin

I flop two pair, but he flops trips
And so he takes a pile of chips
A straight, I quickly bite my lips
With quads the win from me he rips

Just when I think I'm all done in
A pair of twos gives me the win
That's poker with its ups and downs
It's not as simple as it sounds

Go Outside and Play

What a useless waste of time
Watching TV in your prime
You should go outside and play
Watch it when you're old and grey
Wasting youth is such a crime
Run and play and jump and climb
Sing and go to church and pray
And laugh and dance all the way

TV

Another boring TV show
I'll soon be snoring don't you know
More ads implore me spend your dough
I'll be ignoring their sideshow
Switch to exploring Mexico
Oh they're adoring flamenco
Change channels, scoring a sports show
And crowds are roaring for Glasgow
And there's no mourning for their foe
Well that's my warning, Time to go!

Shock of Shocks

Well shock of shocks I hear you say
A Christian crossed your path today
A pastor happened down your way
And he put on a rude display

So now you want to stay away
From church because of his foul play
Why do I go I hear you say
It's not the faults of those who stray

I go to fellowship and pray
And sing with others made of clay
Who also make mistakes all day
Like me. I think I'm gonna stay

Salvation's not for those who say
They're perfect, never go astray
Well sin finds me an easy prey
That's why I need the Lord today

Ain't

I tell you ain't sure is a word
No it won't taint you, that's absurd!
So please don't faint when it's preferred
Any complaint will go unheard
So no constraint, just use that word
And no war paint, speak undeterred
So, it sounds quaint! Let it be heard!
Just be a saint and use that word

Alone

One by one they left us alone
Because we bow before His throne
Their hateful words cut to the bone
But we love God more than they've known

They leave church offended by truth
Pursuing sins and lusts of youth
They follow things that are uncouth
We pray they come home just like Ruth

Some family and friends have gone
But in the Lord we must press on
For Him alone can we count on
To save us from this Babylon

Dementia

'Twas a long dark night of the soul
She was only part, not the whole
As we grow old we lose control
Dementia surely takes its toll

I remember much better days
Days of wit and turning a phrase
Days when our hearts were set ablaze
By heaven's hope, and godly praise

Shadows of what we used to be
And shadows of what we will be
With new bodies so heavenly
From mortal cares we'll be set free

Resurrection

It was a resurrection scene
After His death Jesus was seen
By Peter and the other men
Over five hundred people then
For as in Adam all will die
In Christ we'll all be made alive

Shadows of our future being
A new body we'll be seeing
Death swallowed up in victory
No, it's not contradictory
Sown in weakness, raised in power
In glory raised from dishonor

A Prayer for Justice

Dear Father I pray for my wife
How she's treated has brought us strife
And heartache to family life
Bring justice for my darling wife

The land's not important to her
But one dismal thought does recur
Her feeling that seems to infer
That she was loved less does occur

Jesus' Mock Parade

Imagine a great big parade
A military band that played
Tanks and rockets along the road
Soldiers marching in goose-step mode
And a dictator in a stand
He's clapping for the father land
For oppression and enslaving
All with flags and banners waving

Then imagine sometime later
A religious educator
Riding on a donkey mocking
Children cheering, people flocking
No parade with big finances
Simple banners of palm branches
The leaders that He undercut
Were Caesar, Herod and Pilate
(Mark 11:1-11)

Snow in Spring

What! Snow in Spring, not snow in Spring
Whoever heard of such a thing
It's wet and sticks to everything
A foot of snow first day of Spring

I'll take the car and try the lane
No need to plow, the drive's no strain
I'll sit right here and not complain
A day at home is not in vain

Land of the Gun

America's still number one
Because it's the land of the gun
The right to own one we have won
And owning guns can't be undone

But think a minute should we rule
That those who use them go to school
And learn to use them like a tool
Not handle them like any fool

The thin edge of the wedge they say
A slippery slope to the day
They take all of our guns away
Well that's bad logic by the way

A license lets you drive a car
And cars won't be banned by some czar
It let's us know how skilled you are
You've been approved to drive a car

Sure criminals still drive without
The legal right to drive no doubt
But aren't you glad that most check out
It's so much safer than without

Speak to us Smooth Things

Please Mr Preacher, you Bible teacher
Don't shine a bright light on doing what's right
Why don't you feature another creature
The wolf doesn't bite; he preaches delight

What God will allow is your best life now
No need for a loss; don't mention the cross
Health, wealth anyhow is the sacred cow
So you are the boss, preach profit not loss

Speak to us smooth things, the toys that God brings
Don't preach about hell, sin and please don't yell
Just tell us we're kings, how good always wins
And things will go well, forever we'll dwell

So preach to deceive and not to aggrieve
Don't preach that the cross shows we must take loss
Deceptions please weave; preach lies or we'll leave
So preach like a boss but not of the cross

One Pastor's Week

Sunday the Pastor stands to preach
And faithfully the Word does teach
But Monday he is all alone
Office paper work in his home
He's working on the worship plan
And his sermon that clergyman

Tuesday work that sermon some more
Clergy meeting, head out the door
Hospital visit in downtown
The service club and then calm down
Wednesday noon the women will meet
Then Bible Study is a treat

Thursday the Pastor's day of rest
Relax a little and be blessed
Friday work that sermon some more
Some visits, maybe help the poor
Saturday prayer and fellowship
Last chance for sermon craftsmanship

Selfishness

Jesus taught that selfishness destroys us
Selfishness is thus
Selfish people always want their own way
They fight every day

They have unrealistic expectations
Destroy relations
Selfish people can’t take criticism
That's narcissism

But they constantly criticize others
A life that smothers
Lie and manipulate; can’t be trusted
Friends are disgusted

They want the largest portion for the self
The best off the shelf
God help us and heal us from all this mess
Our world's in distress

Why

Why my friend did you have to die
It's really hard to say goodbye
I know how much you meant to me
And now I pray you've been set free

From those who swindle, lie and steal
Who made your life such an ordeal
Your friendship was encouragement
You really were the finest gent

Church

Don't leave, it hurts so much you know
When folks at church decide to go
Preachers say what they think is right
Feel free to disagree, alright?

Two people just cannot agree
On everything in life you see
If you get mad and choose to leave
Where is the church you can believe

You'll run across something there too
That you believe doesn't suit you
We agree ninety five percent
On faith and love and to repent

Bullied

Bullied by her own family
Into thinking she has no plea
She asks why don't they love me too
He gets so much; I must make do

She can't complain; that's how it is
She gets a bit; the bulk is his
Injustice hurts a family
Let's move away so we feel free

To face it every day is hard
Reminders all surround the yard
Forgiveness is a must I know
But pain remains; it's best to go

Lies

All politicians seem to lie
No truth in products that I buy
And history won't tell the truth
Gone, naivete of my youth

I don't trust anyone at all
From scientists to the phone call
And medicine's another scam
A sacrifice and I'm the lamb

A world of lies; who can you trust
My attitude is pure disgust
O God please help us; we're a mess
These constant lies have brought distress

Unclog Arteries

Unclog arteries naturally
Asparagus and broccoli
Use avocado or green tea
Eat chia seeds or cranberry

Cinnamon or coconut oil
Pomegranate or olive oil
Spirulina or turmeric
Watermelon or some spinach

Fish like sardines and tuna too
Salmon and mackerel for you
Flax seeds, coffee and orange juice
Persimmon, nuts are put to use

Whole grains instead of junk white bread
Choose these foods and be better fed
Don't smoke and get some exercise
And eat the right foods; just be wise

A Day Off

A day off and what shall I do
I'd like to spend more time with you
O wife of mine I'm yours today
There's time to shop or time to play

I'd like to take some time to pray
And help you 'round the house today
So let's relax and just hang out
That's what a day off's all about

Unless a Wheat Grain Falls

Unless a wheat grain falls and dies
No germination can arise

Jesus replied, The hour has come
For the Son of Man to enter
His glory, like wheat must succumb
Before life springs from its center

Unless a wheat grain falls and dies
No germination can arise

He who loves his life will lose it
But who his life in this world hates
For eternity will be fit
Follow me and honor awaits

Unless a wheat grain falls and dies
No germination can arise

Now my soul has become distressed
What should I say, Father save me?
It's why I came; this is my quest
To glorify divinity

Unless a wheat grain falls and dies
No germination can arise

Now judgment of the world is here
The ruler of this world thrown out
When lifted on that cross it's clear
I'll draw people from all about

Unless a wheat grain falls and dies
No germination can arise

John 12:20-33

Fox News and MSNBC

Fox News lies over half the time
Lying propaganda and slime
MSNBC lies almost
half the time too, so what's their boast

Near 60 percent lies at Fox
That's something we need to detox
44 percent the other side
Is something that we can't abide

Only 20 percent CNN
That's a little better but then
Why should they lie even at all
It's simply not playing good ball

It's not news; it's propaganda
Would we find that in Uganda
Or Russia or Cuba or worse
O why must we live with this curse

Statistics: Politifact 2015

The Church Snob

The church snob does not like Christians
He treats them with great suspicion
Expecting them to be perfect
Their motives he thinks are suspect

But there's no such thing as perfect
We all fail in every respect
Including the church snob as well
The perfect-church myth let's dispel

All human beings are faulty
Christians are meant to be salty
A bright shiny light on a hill
Not dill on a hill sounding shrill

But critics will always find fault
While Christians are becoming salt
They may fail but don't be upset
They're trying but not quite there yet

It's not about imperfect men
Or singing and saying, Amen
It's all about Jesus who died
And rose for all sinners worldwide

Men

So, why did God make men at all
And what has happened since the fall
Why do feminists put men down
Degrading men from town to town

False accusations, misandry
Incarceration bigotry
Homelessness and conscription too
No reproductive rights for you

And suicide is ten to one
With feminism's hit and run
Education disadvantage
Child custody is mismanaged

A woman who builds up her man
Now that's a lady with a plan
To live together happily
And build a joyful family

Can't You See

Can't you see!
The lies of this world's industry
How it pollutes
It fills the world with poisoned fruits

Can't you see!
Politics lies to you and me
And both sides
Are filled with blind deceptive guides

Can't you see!
The bad food sold to you and me
It's awful
It's immoral but it's lawful

Can't you see!
The lies from the drug company
Millions made
Beware the doctor who's been paid

Can't you see!
Science and religion aren't free
From all lies
But truth is there among the wise

Greed

What drives our world is simple greed
Pollute and poison and mislead
Overcharge and deny health care
And honesty is really rare

Lying propaganda news networks
Pay minimum wage with no perks
No human rights for the unborn
Underpay, overwork the born

Oppress the poor and immigrants
Spray poison on the farmer's plants
False advertising for a buck
It's oligarchy run amok

Bribed politicians, too much war
More families becoming poor
A highly educated crew
Leads us, but they don't have a clue

So, love your neighbor as yourself
You just won't find on their bookshelf
But that's the answer to create
A nation that is truly great

Bullies

I grew up with bullies at school
Children can be heartless and cruel
After school I went to college
Bullies there had greater knowledge

After college I went to work
My boss was one browbeating jerk
And there are bullies in the church
When the wrong people are in charge

Intimidation on the road
Dangerous drivers shove and goad
And on the internet as well
Just block those bullies straight from hell

And politicians bully too
And many people don't see through
The lies, coercion, blowing smoke
When bullies deal with other folk

Grandmothers, an Answer to Our Depression

Grandmothers are more effective
Than doctors and their perspective
In treating depression in us
They listen and let us discuss

Grandmothers will always reach out
Encourage when we're full of doubt
Sharing what they love about us
With a long term view and no fuss

So, grandma step up to the plate
And listen before it's too late
Grandmothers are now in session
An answer to our depression

The Favored Child

A father gave his favored child
An ice-cream cake to eat and smiled
He cut it carefully in ten
He took a tenth and cut again

That little piece give your sister

That's her only portion mister
So can I eat the cherry please
Yes, eat before your sister sees

Why have most of the children gone

They all decided to move on
Discouraged by a travesty
Injustice is a legacy

The cake pictures inheritance

Bequeathing a benevolence
An heirloom is a family stain
When it engenders grief and pain

The Erie People

The Erie People are no more
Their home was on Lake Erie's shore
For five long years they fought their kin
The Seneca who did them in

Survivors scattered far and wide
Far south and north they fled to hide
Homes aflame their ruination
They became a broken nation

O For a World

O for a world without contrails
A clear blue sky where cloud prevails
O for a world with quiet cars
No bad nerves, emotional scars

O for a world without the roar
Of someone mowing lawns next door
O for a world of quietude
Of scenery and wholesome food

The Leaning, Smiling Elephant

The leaning, smiling elephant
It may not sound so elegant
But when you're bullied it works well
When people push you or compel

O mastodon just don't give in
When they coerce you into sin
Just lean and smile, strong as you are
Pachyderm, be a superstar

God's Anger is Love

Why does God get angry with us
Is hate the reason; let's discuss
Do we get angry when someone
Shoots up school children with a gun

When little children are abused
Or the elderly are misused
When innocents are killed like goats
By terrorists who cut their throats

Are we affronted by such things
An act that righteous anger brings
Then maybe we can now deduce
How love and anger have their use

God's anger is love and not hate
He wants to bless us all first-rate
He's angry when we sin due to
The harm it causes me and you

Driving

Is your character really strong
That you choose right and not what's wrong
A simple test then you must pass
Will you stand strong or bend like grass

The test is simple, a speed sign
So, will you speed or toe the line
Will you be weak in attitude
Or keep the speed, impulse subdued

The guy behind may threaten you
Tailgaters just don't have a clue
That their behavior is the worst
So don't be bullied or coerced

Blessed are the persecuted
Those who remain unpolluted
So take the test; how strong are you
Will you be strong; will you be true

The Wind

The wind has blown my chicken run
Across the field, it's all undone
The storage bins with all their feed
And also gone, their chicken seed

It's time to go retrieve it all
Looks like I'll have to reinstall
A chicken run and chicken feed
That sure was a strong wind indeed

Retirement

Retirement's not the life for me
No purpose, living worthlessly
I'm living life meaningfully
I just want time with family

I work all week, always on call
The most important work of all
But pastors have no wherewithal
To live in two countries at all

My children live so far away
And I am getting old and gray
Australia is so far away
And we live in the USA

With two kids here and two kids there
Sometimes life seems just so unfair
Who can afford to pay airfare
Live some time here and some time there

If writing books is the Lord's will
I think that that would be a thrill
And we could see our children still
O Lord I pray that it's your will

Testosterone and Estrogen

It's testosterone poisoning
A nuclear lack of reasoning
If you nuke me then I'll nuke you
We'll both be left without a clue

And it's estrogen poisoning
Heartlessly killing their offspring
Most of the time it's selfishness
What brought us to this crazy mess?

True Greatness

Political cowards them all
Our country needs an overhaul
One party kills the unborn child
The other the poor and reviled

Which part of Babylon do we
Think prays to God on bended knee
Or loves their neighbor from the heart
Or has a clue on where to start

We need to repent of our sins
True greatness is not he who wins
True greatness is a land that cares
True greatness is a land that shares

I Will Not Fear

With all your heart and soul and mind you'll love
The Lord who's the great God and King above
And your neighbor as yourself you shall love
The Almighty will bless you from above

The kingdom's like hid treasure in a field
A man sold all to buy what it concealed
Consider how the lilies of the field
Their glory is so stately when revealed

Repent for heaven's kingdom is at hand
Until it dies a seed can't be a plant
So, crucified with Christ, I died to self
I will not fear; the Lord He is my help

Love and Anger

If God's a God of love, you see
Why does He act so angrily
A valid question I might say
So let me ask you this today

When children or the elderly
Are hurt, abused incredibly
Do you get angry at this sin
Because of love deep down within

When terrorists kill innocents
Do you say, This just makes no sense
Does anger fill your heart just then
In love of murdered fellow men

So love and anger join as one
Because sin ruins everyone
For God wants us to all be blessed
And sin just keeps us from the best

One Thing

In this polluted world around
There's one thing that cannot be drowned
In this corrupted world of sin
There's one thing that will always win

The witness to our God above
And of His never ending love
Is all around it's plain to see
In every bird, in every tree

God sent His One and only Son
Who died for you and everyone
A love so great for you and me
So we can live eternally

I'm Sorry

I'm sorry God I failed
As my life is detailed
I failed to love my wife
The best gift in my life

I failed to bring my sons
To baptize precious ones
I failed to build your church
A way I failed to search

I failed my parents too
Investing I just blew
And most I failed you God
To spread your name abroad

I'm sorry God I failed
If my life would be scaled
My life is a zero
But you are my hero

I'm not worth anything
But if you want I'll bring
My worthless life to you
Your love is pure and true

The Beast

The beast from the bottomless pit
To war and kill says holy writ
He has ten horns and ten crowns too
Blasphemy on his head in view

Looks like a leopard, lion and bear
And with the saints he makes warfare
An image of the beast was milled
And those who would not bow were killed

His number is just six, six, six
He pictures this world's politics
Here is the patience of the saints
Their faith in Jesus never faints

The woman rode the scarlet beast
Who deceived the great and the least
And will be tossed into the fire
When Jesus comes, so just don't tire

The Bully

The bully he will push and shove
She doesn't operate with love
The bully says that folks are wrong
That their ideas just don't belong

The bully drives his car too close
Her attitude is bellicose
The bully is a problem child
He has no friends, she is reviled

Our Church is Rather Small

O God, our church is rather small
We really need an overhaul
Our folks keep dying one by one
If this keeps up we're all undone

Now we don't need just anyone
But those who'll pray for everyone
Some husbands, wives and children too
Some families to fill a pew

Some folks who value loyalty
And yet have possibility
Who'll gladly be our lay readers
And become our future leaders

Footprints of Men and Dinosaurs

Footprints of men and dinosaurs
Near streams and not far from lake shores
Left foot, right foot are plain to see
Those in denial won't agree

Carvings, paintings are plain to see
Contradicting the devotee
Of human egos and theories
They laugh and mock any queries

How dare we believe there's a God
Or that their theories are a fraud
For science doesn't need a God
And no one dares say it is flawed

Preparing a Sermon

Preparing a sermon is a difficult task
You just can't be a fake and you can't wear a mask
To start you must study in a good Bible school
If you don't know the Bible you'll preach like a fool

But study the languages, Greek and Hebrew too
The historical background and culture review
Expository preaching is just what we need
We don't care what men think because it's God that we heed

The more that your preaching is from the Word of God
The less that we'll think that your preaching is just flawed
But if you try to read something into God's Word
The more we will think that what you preach is absurd

Ignoring the Snoring

Ignoring the snoring, it won't disappear
The volume is soaring; it's loud around here
Your snoring is boring a hole in my ear
Exploring not warring, I'm really sincere
Imploring and pouring my heart out my dear
I'm scoring your snoring as very severe

The Ancient Churches

The ancient churches are still here
But something may not be quite clear
Some claim to be the one true church
What is the truth? Let us research

Is it Roman authority?
The Orthodox would disagree
And what about our Coptic friends
To them as well God's grace extends

Apostles planted very near
Assyria's Church is still here
But Thomas went quite far away
His churches exist to this day

We have no right to tell our God
Where He may work here and abroad
For by the Spirit we are led
And Jesus is the Church's Head

Loss is Gain and Gain is Loss

Get behind me Satan, said He
You don't think about what's Godly
But just about the things of men
And He called His disciples when

He said, Whoever wants to come
And follow me must overcome
Deny himself take up his cross
For loss is gain and gain is loss

Whoever wants to save his life
Will lose it and discover strife
Whoever loses life for me
Will save it and be truly free

Don't gain the world and lose your soul
There is no profit in that goal
Don't be ashamed of what I say
In a sinful world gone astray

Snow

Thunder snow is a stormy show
A blizzard is a windy snow
A snowstorm comes without much breeze
A snow squall's brief, a snowy tease

But sleet can refreeze leaving ice
And blowing snow is not so nice
A flurry doesn't get too deep
Lake effect snow can make a heap

A Land without Heart

Our realm has become a land without heart
A Godless nation that's falling apart
We don't care for the sick and the needy
We lust for more and we are so greedy

We don't care for those fleeing from dangers
They live with us as unwelcome strangers
We kill our babies; they don't get a choice
Silent and defenseless without a voice

When Jesus returns and the judgment comes
What will we say? That we loved assault guns
More than our children and prayer in our schools?
When will we see, we're a nation of fools?

Our God is waiting for us to return
To the One who made us; His heart does yearn
For His sons and daughters to come inside
Repent and believe; there's nothing to hide

Love your Children More than Guns

Do you love your children more than you do your guns?
Do you love the lives of your daughters and your sons?
The second amendment was written for muskets
Not for AR-15's and gun lobby puppets

If you want to save our children then do something
Politicians make excuses; it's disgusting
Hunters don't need automatic rifles at all
It's time to stand; protect our kids and play hard-ball

Times Apart

Are our times apart any good
And do they improve our sainthood
Jesus was led to be alone
Forty days in an arid zone

Some solitude and time to pray
A place to think that's far away
A pause in life to wait for God
To give a gentle, loving prod

Philanthropy in Secrecy

You can be a showboat
On a TV show
You can blow a big note
On a horn you know

Give to a charity
So you'll be adored
Filled with hypocrisy
You've got your reward

But there's reward above
For philanthropy
That's given in true love
And in secrecy


Pure and Undefiled Religion

He who thinks he is religious
But can't bridle conversation
He deceives his heart a smidgen
Useless is this man's religion

Pure and undefiled religion
And the mark of a true Christian
Help the needy in their trouble
And don't let the world corrupt you

Football

Football! Football! Ev'rywhere!
Bending knees they say a prayer
Men with helmets padded too
Go team! Tackle! Get a clue!

In a pasture men spread out
Some trauma too there's no doubt
Dressed in tights with ball in hand
Cheering fans up in the stand

Why

Why do I preach; does anyone listen?
Do sermons reach the complacent Christian?
Does repentance still exist here today?
Does the entrance to Church cause us to pray?

Why do we sing if we don't mean a word?
Why do we bring a heart that's never stirred?
When will we let God make our hearts anew?
When will we set our hearts on all that's true?

A Sabbatical Year

Take a total year off, a Sabbatical year
I ask please don't you scoff, let me make this quite clear
That in the seventh year, all farmland is to rest
It is a time of cheer, a time that we are blessed

Six years long we should plow, and six years gather fruit
Six years a sweaty brow, six years of farm pursuit
But in the seventh year, just take a solemn rest
A year for God my dear, for family and guest

Why Can't We Just Get Along

Why do we have to believe all the same things to be friends
Why can't we just agree to disagree and make amends
The constant put-downs are wrong
Why can't we just get along!

So you're an atheist and I'm a believer in God
If we're totally honest, don't we both see through a fog
Together we both belong
Why can't we just get along!

If your house burned down I'd be there in a wink to save you
And I know you'd be there in a heartbeat to save me too
Our unity is so strong
Why can't we just get along!

No matter who we vote for when election time comes 'round
We're neighbors in community, who stand on common ground
You know that we both belong
Why can't we just get along!

Partisanship

Partisanship is not for Christians
Don't believe political fictions
Both sides are in evil Babylon
Politicians you can't depend on

One side kills babies the other not
But tells the poor that they can just rot
Immigrants deport; they just don't care
No Christianity anywhere

Recorded Message Spam

You ring me late at night
You know it's just not right
You're nothing but a scam
Recorded message spam

Goodbye, I'm hanging up
I know you won't let up
But you're just wasting time
You won't get one thin dime

Pa-keet! Pa-keet!

Guinea fowl, are the strangest bird
They really can act quite absurd
Mrs. Pa-keet! Pa-keet! she cries
And when I come home in she flies

She's crazy how she lays her eggs
Not well-protected which just begs
A predator to eat them all
A dozen or more, and so small

Chi! Chi! Chi! Mr. Guinea cries
Runs to me looking for a prize
So, What, you ask, Are guinea's for?
They eat up ticks and bugs galore

Covered in Ice

The grass is fruzz, covered in ice
Looks like a field of shiny glass
A meadow filled with jewel grass
Should I go out? What's your advice?

The sun is out and makes it shine
I'll stay inside and watch the view
And have a bite of Irish stew
And thank God for His grand design

Chickens, Chickens

Chickens, chickens all around
With their eager squawking sound
Looking for a bite to eat
Waddling with their happy feet

A slice of bread in my hand
Jumping, happy little band
Need some water cheerful crew?
Yes, they squawk, Indeed we do

Sitting, watching chickens peck
They're so much fun and low tech
What about some mixed seed too?
Oh yes, they squawk, We love you

A Day to Rest

A day to rest both body and soul
Some call it Sabbath and that's okay
A day to relax and take a stroll
The principle is just take a day

A day for church and worshiping God
Reading the Bible and private prayer
Your toes in the grass with feet unshod
A nice cool drink, a shady lawn chair

Time for our loved ones and dear friends too
And maybe a stranger there as well
Watch the garden; how quickly it grew
Nothing to push, demand or compel

Joining Heaven's Roll Call

The burnt offerings God told Israel to make
Private freewill offerings were they
Any unblemished male of the herd they should take
Like Jesus on the cross that awful Friday

The grain offering was of the finest flour
Like any offering to God is our best
Salt of the covenant reminds us that our
Hope is in Jesus; in the cross we are blessed

The peace offering as a fellowship feast
Reminds us of Jesus the bread and the wine
He sacrificed himself; He is our High Priest
The last offering; the sacrifice divine

The sin and the guilt offerings are to teach
That Jesus died for known and unknown sins too
Forgiveness of sins is what Jesus did preach
He died for the Gentile as well as the Jew

God took no real pleasure in the sacrifice
And He offered up Jesus once and for all
Who willingly died for our sins paid the price
So we offer ourselves, join heaven's roll call

The Telephone Call

Are you spam, or a scam, or a friend in a jam?
What is this telephone call for?
If you're a flimflam or a sham you can just scram!
Deception and fraud from offshore!

I'll block your number you dirty scum of the earth!
You won't call back here anymore!
What's that you say? Why are you laughing with such mirth?
Oh! Hi friend! How are things next door?

Abraham, Abraham

Abraham, Abraham, why did you lie
To Pharaoh and then to Abimelech
Despite this fault you weren't such a bad guy
When God said leave town, your feet hit the deck

Look count the stars in the sky Abraham
So will your children be, if you can count
To your descendants I will give this land
Abraham believed and God took account

Abraham, Abraham, why did you cheat
Keturah's children and send them away
Inheritance should be fair, not mistreat
You gave all to Isaac; that was foul play

Abraham was faulty like you and me
But by faith obeyed when God said to go
And when he was tested, you will agree
He obeyed God like no man that you know

Abraham, Abraham, father of ours
You were just like us, so weak in the end
But you believed God and counted the stars
And you were a man that God called His friend

A Snark

I love you but your snarking drives me nuts
First silence then comes that heavy breathing
Then there's a loud vibration from your guts
A snark explodes and there's no more sleeping

Well there's a snore and then there is a snark
A snore's just a mild buzzing sound I'll note
A snark's a loud explosion in the dark
First silence, then a blast comes from your throat

What's that sound! Did the world come to an end
Is that a lion or a thunder clap
I'm getting PTSD I'll contend
I lie there waiting for the next attack

The tension builds; your breathing escalates
I'm waiting for the next time that you snark
The heavy breathing only indicates
That a snark, will soon thunder in the dark