HOMER 5-16-09

This is a true story.

It's true, as I had witnessed it personally.

I pray that you enjoy 'HOMER'.

-

Homer.
A 'special' person?
Successful?

Few would call him that today.
He was not an 'important' elected official.
He was not a 'well-known' celebrity.
He was not a 'CEO',
nor did it seem he was even 'needed'.

In the mid 50's
after heart trouble
needing a warmer climate

and wanting to do mission work-
he moved to Texas - Weslaco, Texas.
He knew no one there.
And of course,
Mexico was just across the river.

The Mexicans were very poor.
I suppose most of us knew that -
but few really noticed.

I visited him once.
He drove me around
and showed me places -
and I remember seeing
a very young girl playing
naked in front of
a small square shack (her home).

Homer saw a need -
but few noticed.

Homer lived in a trailer.
He didn't have heat
and it got cold at night -
but few noticed.

The border patrol got to know Homer.
They trusted him.
They knew him
as they saw how he lived,
and the work he was doing.
We crossed the border
into Mexico and back,
easily -
without being checked.
He prayed, then delivered food.
He prayed, then delivered clothes.
He prayed, then delivered hope.
He prayed, then delivered change -
to their lives.

For years he delivered their needs
and the Good Word -
but few noticed.

He didn't pastor a big church.
He didn't pastor a small church.
He didn't pastor any church -
but I remember once
at a Wednesday night prayer meeting -
(during one of those rare times
he returned to Wisconsin)
several men stood up
and gave their testimonies.
I can't remember
what any of them said.
But then Homer stood up.
He didn't say anything spectacular.
He just told of how poor his 'new friends' were
and how he was trying to help them.
He spoke for awhile and asked if
we might be able to share or donate anything -
clothes, food...
and then started to sit back down.
But everyone wanted to hear more
- so he continued.
He spoke for the full service.

There was no "prayer meeting" that evening.
No one left early.
The pastor never spoke either -
but few noticed. 

His faith was big
but he did small things.

Few noticed.

Decades later

as he got older,
he moved in with us -
back in Wisconsin.
I owned a few rentals
and charged him nothing.
He insisted on paying, though -

so he did,
$40 per month
which covered the utilities.
He could afford that.
He stayed in that small lower unit
a number of years.
I learned a lot -
as I saw him daily.
I was not a benefit to him,
but rather, he was a benefit to me.
You might say that we
were one, big happy family.
We seldom knocked.

I remember once
walking in on him
and saw him in his bedroom
on the floor
on his knees
at his bedside,
praying.
He didn't hear me
or see me
so I quietly backed out.
He was a man of prayer.

He read his Bible continuously.
We spoke often.
He carried his Bible everywhere -
and rarely left home without it.
He walked to the other end of town and back
twice a day, for exercise.
He loved Gods world -
but few noticed.

He continued his normal routine,
his daily Christian walk -
but few noticed.

One day
as I was driving down main street,
on the far sidewalk,
I saw him.
As I stopped for a red light,
there he was - up ahead,
walking the same direction as I.
Who could forget that distinctive walk?
A little hunched over,
but a deliberate walk -
as if he always knew
exactly where he was headed.
Few noticed.

As I got closer -
as I looked closer -
of course, at his side,
under his arm,
in his hand
was that same familiar Bible.
He didn't see me.
I didn't sound my horn to wave.
I just looked ahead
and smiled, thinking...
'that's Homer'.

On the sidewalk
were other passers by.
I wondered if they, too, saw his Bible.
Few noticed.

Now maybe Homer
was not a 'special' person in our world,
but he was a special person to me -
and a very 'special' person to God.
A great believer,
A 'special' person for sure -
though few noticed.

Are we 'special' to those around us?
How will people remember us?
And more importantly,
how will God remember us?

Homer passed away in 1991
at the age of 95.
A few people in Weslaco, TX
or in Mexico
might still remember "the nice man".
The children that he fed and clothed then
should be in their 40s or 50s now.

Homer McDermott
1896-1991
He died poor -
but few noticed.

If every American
in this nation -
prayed as hard as he did -
worked as hard as he did -
gave as hard as he did....
if every American
in this nation -
proved their love as he did -
to our neighbors here,
and around the world -
then America, once again, would be
that "shining city on a hill"
Reagan spoke of in Dallas in 1984.

And God would be defined to the world
through pure Christian living -
not through theology books
sold in bookstores,
or by
(allow me to say it this way)
"make-believers".

Homer didn't "make-believe".
Homer didn't 'act' like a Christian.
Homer was a Christian -
though few noticed.

Homer never worked for his salvation,
nor did he worry about his salvation,
nor did he charge
for his Christian service -
and few noticed.

Few people knew Homer -
but God did.
Few people noticed Homer -
but I did.

Tears pour from my eyes
when I think of how far I fall short
of Homer's great love and faith -
in life,
for others,
for God.

Homer -
a very 'special' person?
I guess that's for each one of us to decide,
depending on our goals in life -
but as for me - yes, absolutely.

Homer McDermott,
a most humble man -
a man of faith -
a man of most unselfish love,
with the greatest, most worthy testimony.

And though few noticed
my grandfather, I did.

~louis gander

2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Hope Soap! 5-12-09

Hope?

Bad hope?
Good hope?

What is hope?
And why hope?

Is hope for real?
Do hope we feel?

Is hoping smarter?
Does hope now differ?

When can we begin to cope?
When do we have real hope?

Hope for a reason?
Hope for a season?

Where is true hope?
What good is hope?

What's true hope?
Who's for hope?

Great hope?
Real hope?

Hope?

If nothing here is going wrong,
when everything is going strong -
Where's hope?

And if our days are so a'hurtin',
because in sin we are a'flirtin',
Where's hope?

Through streets, the serpent pulls and drags
as we become his filthy rags,
Where's hope?

And if, without humility
we know ourselves we can't cut free,
Where's hope?

We seek above the clouds for aid -
without repentence we still prayed,
Where's hope?

Faith in works does not suffice
but rather Christ who paid the price,
There's hope!

Grace can't clean unless we choose
faith in 'salvations soap' we use.
Hope Soap!

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

------

Needed Change 5-11-09

Change -
something desired -
when troubled skies turn gray.

Change -
something wanted -
when we're in disarray.

Change -
something needed -
when money slips away.

Change -
something demanded -
so we seek a better way.

Yet 'change' is so misunderstood.
(it isn't always real 'good').
For true foundations always stand
when guided by Gods Holy hand.

Look at Job - change turned life bad,
though not his fault, lost all he had.
Skies were dark and not too sunny -
lost his children - all his money.

But give up? Job did not quit -
nor lose his faith? No, not one bit -
for God was there right by his side
and Job knew God would soon provide.

Our world falls in one big splat
to 'crisis' after 'desperate'.
Our courage runs from whim to whim
as we all scream, "Let's vote for him!"

Greed will always wear its frown
and turn our smiles up-side-down.
Oh, there's no doubt that we seek change
but where we look is really strange.

When blaming others for our seed,
we only have one real need.
Our sinful souls seek latitude -

but needed change is "attitude"!

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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JOB 42: (KJ)
"5 I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth thee.
6 Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes.
7 And it was so, that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath.
8 Therefore take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering; and my servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job.
9 So Eliphaz the Temanite and Bildad the Shuhite and Zophar the Naamathite went, and did according as the LORD commanded them: the LORD also accepted Job.
10 And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before.
11 Then came there unto him all his brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance before, and did eat bread with him in his house: and they bemoaned him, and comforted him over all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him: every man also gave him a piece of money, and every one an earring of gold.
12 So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning..."

Nervous? 5-11-09

Are you nervous about classes,
a report card - or a test,
a landlord, an X-ray, a dentist,
professor - or the rest?

Why should we pay attention to
our little worldly worth -
and why are we so nervous 'bout
the finite things of earth?

Goodness flows through all of us
and evil is but frozen,
for we, with faith in Him above
are His, as He has chosen.

So walk in reverent footsteps of
our Lord and Savior, Jesus -
for God created, retains control,
and He is leading us!

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

For God So Loved 5-6-09

(same tune as: America the Beautiful)

O beautiful, our God above,
to those who seek His face,
as repentance and forgiveness
both share His loving grace!
For God so loved, He sent His Son!
then shed His blood for thee -
so focus towards
the Lord of Lords,
from sea to shining sea!

O beautiful, whose missions' feet
whose great steadfastened root,
A thoroughfare of freedom beat
across the world, fruit!
For God so loved - He sent His Son!
then died for you and me -
commanded us
that we profess,
to those across the sea!

O beautiful, His soldiers are
in liberating strife,
who more than self their Father love
and souls so more than life!
For God so loved - He sent His Son!
may God our wealth define -
now let us sing
to God our King,
and hold His Name divine!

O beautiful, salvation's dreams
beyond the 'here and now'
my alabaster Heaven gleams -
This world I disavow!
For God is love - He's coming back -
prepared a place for me...!
as I've confessed
in humbleness,
I give all praise to thee!

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org

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America the Beautiful

Words by Katharine Lee Bates,

Melody by Samuel Ward

O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for pilgrim feet
Whose stern impassioned stress
A thoroughfare of freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America!
God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!

O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife.
Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life!
America! America!
May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain divine!

O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for halcyon skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the enameled plain!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
Till souls wax fair as earth and air
And music-hearted sea!

O beautiful for pilgrims feet,
Whose stem impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
Till paths be wrought through
wilds of thought
By pilgrim foot and knee!

O beautiful for glory-tale
Of liberating strife
When once and twice,
for man's avail
Men lavished precious life!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
Till selfish gain no longer stain
The banner of the free!

O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America!
God shed his grace on thee
Till nobler men keep once again
Thy whiter jubilee!

My Mom 5-3-09

My Mom,
who hugged me after painful birth,
who loved me more than all this earth,
who tucked me in when I was cold,
who, though crying, she would hold,

who stayed up nights, looked over me,
who put me first, instead of 'she',
who didn't sleep - rocked me instead,
who kissed my tiny, warm forehead,

who proved her love time and again,
who never quit through thick and thin,
who, for days, awake would keep,
who held me 'til I'd fall asleep.

who fed me, bathed me, clothed me too,
who taught me, spanked me 'til I grew,
who knew my treasures on my shelf,
who knew me more than me, myself,

who told me, "Don't your brother taunt."
who gave advice I didn't want,
who knew behind my ears was dirt,
who gave instruction 'til it hurt.

Mom won't make our history book,
but if she did, no one would look.
Though she knew scripture inside-out,
there's nothing I could write about.

Was Mom so special? Not to you,
for she had me - then followed through.
Moms fall short of explanation -
but they built this very nation.

Mom, I love you -
(and all Moms everywhere....)

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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The Greatest Of Poems! 4-29-09

If I could write
the greatest of poems
which opened all sinners eyes,
I'd soar in a plane,
drop leaflets like rain
from way up here in the skies!

I'd scream from the hilltops,
yell across plains -
although some might think me insane -
I'd holler right out,
with every loud shout,
for silence I could not contain!

Yes, this very poem
if it, I could write,
I'd sing from each mountain top -
the highest of height,
from morning to night,
until, exhausted, I'd drop.

But what if I couldn't
write such a poem?
And what if my poem should fail?
Well, here's the great sting,
of not even trying -
that Satan, for sure, would prevail.

Now this is the reason
it cannot be done:
I'd be speaking in English to birds...
But they have a choice

with God's still, small voice -
without my vain efforts in words.

Birds can't speak English,
God made them that way.
We're only to go and plant seed.
Then while on the ground
they peck all around
until they find Jesus indeed!

So print this mere poem,

a 'seed' not the greatest

and tell all your friends that it's true.

Please let them all know,

that God loves them so -

then mention that we love them too.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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God's Lawn 4-28-09

Feeling down and feeling out?
Feeling angry? Want to shout?
This morning at the crack of dawn
I saw my Fathers perfect lawn.

A perfect lawn that all could see,
but tell me this, how could it be -
when not a single blade of grass
could live up to perfections class?

As I view each single blade,
I know for certain God had made -
I feel, at times, so out of touch -

and do not measure up so much.

So often others seem remiss,
as they forget this blade exists.
In all these blades, it takes so many -
if I'm pulled, would it change any?

Notice ALL the blades imperfect?
If all were pulled I would expect,
that this whole perfect lawn of green
could soon become one ugly scene.

No one's perfect, make that clear -
here nor there nor any year -
but God had planned this all along -
for perfect lawn: imperfect throng.

So all lost souls can see His face,
I'll make His lawn a lusher place.
Through ALL life's storms I'll trust His ways
and in His lawn, I give Him praise!

So when I feel down and out,
I'll remember, there's no doubt -
that I'm not here for worldly gain.
So Lord, drench fully, me in rain.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Angel Wings 4-27-09

(for my cousin, Louise, who was always smiling, 1955-2009)

When life seems empty, it's no fun.
When everything's hopeless, what can be done?
When all life's work goes down the drain...
when I look back, it's all insane.

What if I knew that few people care,
and where are the answers from government there?
What can I do when I've lost earthly hope?
Oh, what can I do at the end of my rope?

Let go, let God,
with wink and nod.
For it's worthwhile.
to smile awhile.

With faith I just
rely on trust.
I feel so free.
Don't cry for me.

From all earths harms,
I'll drop in arms,
against His chest -
for I'm His guest.

In graveyard no,
don't look below,
but up should look,
for me He took.

When life looks bleak,
give God a peek,
You'll find Him too
with life anew.

Trust has no strings,
an angel sings,
when Jesus brings
us angel wings...

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Tears (of living water) 4-26-09

I pray across this blessed land -
and sit here now, with pen in hand.
Truth is not just for the birds,
so seek ye truth among these words...

There was a tree along my drive
appearing very much alive.
Others lived there all around -
but this one grew on shallow ground.

That tree had basked out in the sun,
and from the birds it didn't run.
Yet its roots did not reach down
and soon its leaves were turning brown.

Receiving moisture, as the rest,
but didn't drink despite its quest.
It didn't draw from nature's love -
was lacking nurture from above.

Though it rained all summer long
and though I nursed it all along -
truth revealed no life ahead,
so that tree stood completely dead.

I gave it time - another year,
but it was dead and that was clear.
Though it stood there so straight and tall -
I pulled it out. Yes, roots and all.

Holding fast to 'here and now',
do I drink milk, forget the cow?
Thinking of each choice I make,
can I still pray, "my soul to take"?

Do we so love our good Creator -
or do we, His creation more?
Many still, reject His grace
as tears of sadness, soak His face.

Now this, for me, is ample proof -
His teardrops pour upon my roof.
Through the window - what a scene!
My grassy yard is turning green.

With her doll, she always cuddles,
jumping in abundant puddles.
Playing, I can see my daughter -
we're so blessed with living water.

Now here I pause, with pen and ink,
I ponder this. It makes me think,
if I reject the truth I see -
then I, just like that tree will be.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Respect 4-23-09

Where's respect we used to have,
among each other, great?
And where's concern for other folks
in love. How do we rate?

We used to clean up, comb our hair,
when taking off for town,
but now we think it's 'oh, so cool'
when pants are sliding down.

Baggy pants are not the cause
respect is nearly dead.
It starts before the pants are made.
The 'cause' is in our head.

Just look and see the jogging shorts
at any grocery store.
And how can we still wonder why
our crime rates upward soar?

With dirty, ragged, torn tee-shirts,
what does it say to others?
And can we see this disrespect
for even, yes, our mothers?

We are so full of gracious love -
but only for ourselves.
They've lost their love for others as
they watch out for themselves.

And even now in government,
without the least regard -
they tax and spend (their sacred cause).
Belligerence is hard.

We think we have the answers -
but have we gone insane,
with pay-offs by the trillions -
paid back with waves of grain?

Respect those purple mountains.
Respect our fruited plains.
Tell me why we're tightly wrapped -
and bound with our own chains?

What happened to America -
and to those spacious skies?
What happened to our families?
Who's focused in our eyes?

Where's respect for brotherhood?
Let's do some deep research.
Let's open up our Bibles now
in office, homes and church.

It's way past time we get on track
and rid ourselves of pride -
for if we don't, our country's in
for one last bumpy ride....

Foundations are not built on air -
and faith cannot be bought.
Don't listen to the here and now,
but what our grandpa's taught.

Strength cannot come from within,
when feet aren't on the ground.
The strength we get is from above
where truth is always found.

Respect for flag and country
can one day come again -
but only if we humbly ask,
forgiveness from our sin.

Where is respect for country?
Are God's commandments wrong?
I ask you now, "What can replace
these ten to make us strong?"

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Exodus 20 (KJV)
The Ten Commandments
1 And God spoke all these words:
2 "I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.
3 "You shall have no other gods before me.
4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below.
5 You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the LORD your God, am a jealous God, punishing the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation of those who hate me,
6 but showing love to a thousand {generations} of those who love me and keep my commandments.
7 "You shall not misuse the name of the LORD your God, for the LORD will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses his name.
8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.
9 Six days you shall labor and do all your work,
10 but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates.
11 For in six days the LORD made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but he rested on the seventh day. Therefore the LORD blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.
12 "Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the LORD your God is giving you.
13 "You shall not murder.
14 "You shall not commit adultery.
15 "You shall not steal.
16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor.
17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house. You shall not covet your neighbor's wife, or his manservant or maidservant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor."

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America the Beautiful
Words by Katharine Lee Bates, 1895, 1904, 1913
Melody by Samuel Ward

O beautiful for spacious skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the fruited plain!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
And crown thy good
with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for pilgrim feet
Whose stern impassioned stress
A thoroughfare of freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America!
God mend thine every flaw,
Confirm thy soul
in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!

O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife.
Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life!
America! America!
May God thy gold refine
Till all success
be nobleness
And every gain divine!

O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
And crown thy good
with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

O beautiful for halcyon skies,
For amber waves of grain,
For purple mountain majesties
Above the enameled plain!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
Till souls wax fair
as earth and air
And music-hearted sea!

O beautiful for pilgrims feet,
Whose stem impassioned stress
A thoroughfare for freedom beat
Across the wilderness!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
Till paths be wrought
through wilds of thought
By pilgrim foot and knee!

O beautiful for glory-tale
Of liberating strife
When once and twice,
for man's avail
Men lavished precious life!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
Till selfish gain
no longer stain
The banner of the free!

O beautiful for patriot dream
That sees beyond the years
Thine alabaster cities gleam
Undimmed by human tears!
America! America!
God shed His grace on thee
Till nobler men
keep once again
Thy whiter jubilee!

Priorities 4-17-09

Filling my calendar, filling my schedule.
Accomplishing the vast majority.
I cancel some - then add a few.
What's my top priority?

Would I get behind, or come out ahead -
if I happened now to drop over dead?

Career, home, and family -
Am I for God or just for me?
When life is over, what will be?
Who's the great authority?

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Final Walk 4-13-09

Now forty lashes - minus one

The torture, anguish has begun.

Thirty-nine lashes, horrid pain,

I can't endure - but won't complain.

A crown of thorn cuts in so deep,

Energy gone, I've got to sleep.

But on my back, a timber placed -

it weighs a ton, blood/sweat I taste.

I feel the cross beside my face.

I cannot walk a faster pace.

Skin open rips - each time I slip,

so tighter, I must keep my grip.

Each step I take is harder still

when trudging up this cruel hill.

The slivers pierce me as I trod,

both big and small - please help me God.

Please give me strength - for Heaven's sake

for every muscle in me aches.

With that huge cross along my back,

my knees give out. My legs go slack.

Exhausted, I can hardly crawl

and then I drop it as I fall.

My shoulder hurts, the pain intense -

then they all stare in awed suspense.

I can't hold it any more

yet I know next, what is in store.

My lungs hurt so, I've lost my breath -

but give me strength before my death.

At the top, I finally rest -

but now this cross, my final test.

I love you all - am faithful still,

right here on top of Calvary's hill.

Yet all the pain endured thus far

cannot erase the sins that are.

Sacrifice, death - wages of sin -

now demand pain on the cross begin.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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In His Hands 4-5-09

I just heard the tragic news
but I can't fit in your own shoes.
Some times I try to comfort some
but hugging you doesn't take you from
all of the heartache and all of the pain.
My words can't even begin to explain....

My stomach winds up in a giant knot
and after I leave I cry a lot.
When losing a friend that I hold dear
and having known them year after year,
I cry out "God, it just isn't fair"
and wonder often - does He not care?

Then I think, Matthew ten, twenty nine -
recalling the sparrow is not even mine.
God only knows (though worth half a cent)
its final day, its final descent.
For God is sovereign. It fits in His plans
that even the sparrow rests in His hands.

I know that I've made so many mistakes
and I can't feel all the pain and aches -
but God holds the answer, for He sent His Son
and knows of the burdens - as sin weighed a ton.
Our sins Jesus took. Our sins He forgave
and buried them all down deep in the cave.

I guess once again, He graced a few days
to share love together in our special ways.
Just sitting together with tears in our eyes,
helps us weather these very dark skies.
I stumble with thoughts. My words are a few -
but all I can say is - I love you....

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Stop, Look & Listen 4-5-09

Please Lord, stop me in my tracks
when others pressure me.
I will not pass Your roses by -
my prayers will thankful be.

Help me look up to Your face
beyond these foggy skies.
With humbleness I see You so
forgive my 'wanting' eyes.

Help me listen to Your voice
with answers - help me start,
not to hear with selfish ears,
but with a humble heart.

I'll not bow to sinful worlds

for You gave me a choice.

I will stop, look and listen 'til
I sense Your Holy voice.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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If God We Trust 3-27-09

On a hill, on top of a tree,
a leaf so high went sailing free.
A hot air blast it had acquired,
and pushed it up, as it desired.

It flipped and turned on humid air
and tossed about without a care.
Higher, higher than ever before,
it loved the power, wanted more.

Reminding us, lest we forget,
the winds were not done with it yet.
That leaf blew high above our lawn.
Passed on over where it was drawn.

It blew across our grassy field -
down to a fence that wouldn't yield.
The wind prevailed - to free, it tried,
but there it stuck until it died.

The tree's still there, the roots confirm,
that it is strong and standing firm.
The hot air blew and now we know
that leaf was used by Satan's blow.

It flipped and turned up in the breeze,
and filled itself with selfish ease.
Hot air blows deception's air
but don't forget, we put him there.

So when we vote, let's choose the leaf
who's tested pure and not a thief.
For our tree stands and always will -
if God we trust and honor still.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Thoughts 3-27-09

When Jesus walked this earthly land
and when He healed the withered hand,
did Jesus smile?
When Jesus turned the tables down
and scattered money all around,
was it worthwhile?

When Jesus calmed the wind and sea -
explained to them that faith was free,
did Jesus sigh?
When Jesus took sins mighty loss,
with thorns, the nails, the rugged cross,
did Jesus die?

Did He postpone that awful death
or did He take His final breath?
Do we know why?
Does God [a Christian walk] still see
as He looks deep inside of me?
Does Jesus cry?

2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Matt. 12: 13
Matt. 21: 12
Matt. 8: 26

Halleluja! 3-25-09

Lord,

You knew all my excuses.

You knew my weaknesses.

You knew all my feeble cries.
You knew my many, many lies.

You know what our duties are.
You knew me there, from afar.
You knew my every failure.
You knew my every cure.

You knew all my futile years.
You knew my tired painful ears.
You knew my heavy heartache.
You knew I was just another fake.

You knew my best, my dearest friend.
You knew the end, the very end.
You knew my feeble, sorry prayer.
You knew that deathly, stale air.

You knew my wall, between us built.
You knew inside my head, the guilt.
You knew all my greatest fears.
Only You could wipe away the tears -

Tears that flowed for several weeks.
Tears that flowed down guilty cheeks.
Tears that stopped when I ran out -
but one day - finally saw the drought.

A drought that came when God imparted.
A drought that saw me soften hearted.
A drought that halted sacrifice slaughter -
as You gave freely - living water!

Living water so graciously given.
Living water - for me, forgiven.
Living water - for faithful few -
as living water flows on through -

to tears of joy (no sin within).
Tears of happiness flow again.
Tears I can fully, well afford.
Halleluja! Praise the Lord!!

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Dead Broke 3-24-09

I bought a house I so adored -

my friends all cheered in great accord.

I borrowed funds on every board

and now my payments, can't afford.

Though every call from bank ignored

I want my credit all restored -

so I can keep my great reward -

so I can buy and not be bored.

High water, I can sometimes ford

and if I could, I'd get on board,

but soon I'll break this final chord -

so loan me patience quickly Lord!

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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My Tree Still Stands 3-24-09

The whipping winds, the freezing rain,
it did not understand the strain -
and did not understand the stress
of wicked, wintry cold's excess.

Until the springtime snow was melting,
it kept taking earthly pelting.
It held firm throughout the frost
and persevered despite the cost.

The freezing rain was in the air -
yet life grew out of everywhere.
Now how can freezing offer good
while this tree stands misunderstood?
---
Does it strengthen, does it now?
Does it make me wonder how?
Does it test me, does it try,
and does it hurt me - make me cry?
Do trees know that life's not fair?
and do they know if God is there?
Liberty and freedom's great -
but it's not easy fighting hate.
---
Yet sunshine sees (through its appearance),

vast rewards from perseverance -
springtime buds its cheers of joy
and proves this world cannot destroy.

For God alone holds season's times -
protects our souls from earthly crimes.
And though the world claims its demands -
in springtime warmth, my tree still stands.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Summer Day 3-22-09

There is nothing more fine on a warm summer day
than laying in grasses of clover and hay,
where breezes make music through all of the leaves,
and birds do their singing among all the trees.

A butterfly zig-zagged here hither and yon
busily flapping as I had looked on.
I raised my eyes up at the vastness of space
and wondered what God thought of His human race.

Soaking up comfort in all that I saw,
lying there silent, in skeptical awe -
pouring His beauty in nature below,
oh, how did God start it so long, long ago?

He continues to bless us year after year -
and why does He love us? It isn't too clear.
Now God did create us - all different kinds,
so what does He look for in all of our minds?

My horse wandered over and nuzzeled my head.
He wanted me up in the saddle instead.
I sat on his back, took a minute or two -
and pondered the question, pondered a clue.

As I kicked his haunches I knew as I grinned
that he would obey as I leaned to the wind.
He faithfully galloped with all of his might -
the answer revealed as I rode out of sight.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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An Amazing Miracle 3-18-09

Creation.
An amazing miracle.

A miraculous life as faith in God grows.
The greatest forest withstands the storms -
but when an acorn falls, God knows.

Creation.
An amazing miracle.

A miraculous life of piloted prayers.
A flock of birds protect each other -
but when the sparrow falls, God cares.

Creation.
An amazing miracle.

A miraculous seed crushed under strife.
The tomb was dark, the stone was sealed -
but God delivers eternal life.

Creation.
An amazing miracle.

A miraculous life as grace unfolds.
A family weeps, kisses, and loves -
but when their loved one sleeps, God holds.

©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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The Web 3-16-09

It looked so fragile - I laughed.
Thin strands I could hardly see.
I figured it was harmless
and knew it couldn't hold me.

I tested it, toyed with it, and knew
I was much stronger than it.
So I played for little while
and formed a harmless habit.

There in comfort, I wrapped myself.
I failed to hear the alarm.
It enveloped - and fragile it was,
I knew it could do no harm.

At times I tried to free myself,
my soul was awful scarred.
I'd soon give up each time I tried -
My heart becoming hard.

A great deceptive spider came
and bound me up so tight,
devoured me in laughter
and I had lost the fight.

Learn from this fatal lesson,
and don't play games with sin.
We cannot do it on our own -
for Christ must live within.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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The Castle 3-15-09

Ever see a castle, the drawbridge and moat?

Think of it this way - consider, take note....

If God is the Castle, and we're all together,

We're on the outside, in threatening weather -

If moat - full of demons - is giving us fits,

with crocodiles ready to gnash us to bits -

If we're to get safely and quickly across,

let Christ be our guide and the drawbridge, the cross.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Two Worlds 3-15-09

Entangled in earthly possessions -

the world of the physical,
or free, like a bird, that's flying high -
the world of the spiritual.

I once had lived in the earthly world

of personal toil and grind;

but now I live in a different realm -
a world with peace of mind.

A world that I could never earn,

a world I'll never leave,
a world where others can live too,
if only they'd believe.

I could never leave God's world,

and return to a life of sin -

for I've lived in both these worlds
and chose the one I'm in.

Yes, there are two separate worlds.

We can only live in one.
We either build a life for us
or live for God's own Son.

Though I can reach back there to some,

I cannot pull them here.
I cannot pray them here to me,
or bend their lone deaf ear.

We alone have made the choice
in which world we are living -
and if we haven't seen God's world
we don't know what we're missing....

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Good-bye... 3-13-09

"Good-bye"...

It's easy to say to problems,
it's easy to say to a storm,
it's easy to say to the blizzard,
it's easy to live with the norm,

but hard to say to a neighbor,
and hard to say to a friend.
It's hard to say to our family,
and so hard to comprehend.

To all His friends that He saw that day,
and to His disciples, Jesus tried to say,
"Good bye, my friends, I'm about to die",
but they understood not. They didn't know why.

Would we have been grasping or awed with blank stare
if, in His midst, we were standing there?
Could we comprehend what the cross would weigh?
Would we understand - the stone rolled away?

Yet God had a purpose and part of His plan
was that Jesus leave - as He had began -
in Bethlehem humbly, without huge crowds,
then later ascending, above the clouds.

Faith knows we'll see Him in Heaven again,

so our prayers all end with a sincere "Amen".
There in His arms we'll have ample supply -
and never again hear the word "good-bye".

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Seven Cents 3-12-09

How futile are the efforts

of mans’ short feeble strife,

on this lost and dying earth,

as he begins his life.

I repaired a house -

had first to clean it up,

some paper here, some clothing there,

and one stained coffee cup -

I really have to wonder,

what's inside the head,

when I see the pauper's life -

and view his life instead.

How futile are the work days,

how futile those days off,

when hogs and sows come running to -

a busy feeding trough.

If I had only known him,

if I had known him hence,

though others carried him from here,

I held his seven cents.

Though not as much as Jesus' cried

while hanging to the cross,

my heart cries out in anguish

for men who live in loss.

Indulging in the here and now,

responsible, his fate -

man still works and lives like pigs,

though God controls the date.

Seven cents discarded,

I found inside his home.

A life indulged in things of earth -

More souls forever roam....

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Hallowed Be Thy Name 3-12-09

Our Father, who art in Heaven,
hallowed be Thy name,
because you first, so loved the world -
we're changed and not the same.

We once were so despicable,
like soiled, dirty rags,
but now we wait as loyal friends,
as a puppy's tail wags.

They say that dogs are man's best friend -
trusting pure and true,
so faithfully we follow -
our faith is all in You.

There's nothing we can turn to,
nothing that we own,
nothing we can build upon -
except Your corner stone.

We wait on Your great wisdom,
we live on Your great strength,
and then as faithful servants,
we serve to greater length.

We cannot hold Your love inside.
We cannot live the same -
we must shine bright and tell the world!
Hallowed be Thy name.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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But Then God 3-10-09

On the run - chasing shadows,

and always on the go.

Always right - never wrong,
and always in the know.

"It's not me" I told myself -

my life so wasteful spent.

I was lost. I went to work -

my mind was earthly bent.

I was blind. I couldn't see -

His voice I couldn't hear.

But then God (who loved the world),

had turned my busy ear.

I was a shadow chaser -

too busy for my Lord.

Praise God the Spirit stirred me.

and now I am restored.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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What Is Art? 3-9-09

"What is art?” if to me, you would ask,

I'd say its a laborious, challenging task.

God creates life that we can't comprehend -

then puts it in nature, beginning to end...

We suffer the challenge to come even near

the beautiful landscapes we hold ever dear.

The brilliant full sunsets that take breath away

only proves that our artwork is futile and gray.

Though it is improved and forever is honed,

creation is simply just mimicked and cloned.

With all of the paintings and all of the words,

none can replace nature’s flowers or birds.

I search, and within me, I find that great art -

comes from creation through a humble heart.

So never take credit, profits or fame -

for next to creation, our work is a shame.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Weekend Worship 3-7-09

Have a great weekend!

The weekend I praise!

It sure makes me free!

Though bowing to Friday -

is it about "me"?

Is Saturday sacred?

Am I unaware?

Is sporting important -

with no time for prayer?

Do I enjoy Sunday,
or is worship dull?
Do I go my own way? Am
I my own idol?

My weekend? A gem -

we perfectly rhyme!

And finish this poem?

I haven't the time...

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Flip The Coin 3-1-09

Wouldn't it be nice if we
learned from history?
Really there's no problem -
it is no mystery.

And what if we could learn
from anothers' bad mistakes?
Wouldn't that be helpful?
Tell me for goodness sakes.

What if we can't even learn
from mistakes - our very own?
And what if we ignore our friends -
now shouldn't we have known?

Wouldn't it be nice if we
learned from experience?
Really, what's the problem?
Ah, beginning to make sense?

Now flip the coin right over and
I'll tell you what I see...
Jesus died for OUR mistakes -
now explain why that should be.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Johnny 3-1-09

Have you ever had unwanted help -
(oh, let’s just call him "Johnny"),
with exceeding, good intentions,
now thinking back, was funny?

God must laugh a little too,
when He sees how we act.
But remember though, His only Son -
He cried, and that's a fact.

My birthday cake, a year ago
tasted somewhat bland.
It had a funny color too -
the texture? (playground sand).

Whether lav, or kitchen sink,
or tub (home for his toad).
Grace was like the water
that Johnny overflowed.

He knew that water would spill forth
no matter where, was drawn,
and Johnny was so full of faith
when turning water on.

Oh, Johnny had his good days
and certainly his bad,
but I would never trade him as -
I loved the little lad.

Our Father loves us just the same,
despite the times we're wrong -
but if we're not responsible,
our discipline is strong.

If faith is like a water pipe,
if grace a lot like water,
if Christians were like Johnny -
just think what could occur!

If gardens saw no water,
our fruit would not be ripe.
All of it would die away -
without the water pipe.

But baptised in His water,
salvation we will get,
and as it was with Johnny -
so often drenching wet.

God's grace is all sufficient
for those who turn it on,
but most won't see the power
of living water drawn.

And yes, at times I'd scold him,
the paddle, his reward -
but questions seemed to linger -
with him, I so adored.

Many times a flood of tears,
poured down my weary face,
as he taught me repeatedly
God loves the human race.

I'd ask myself quite often as
I looked him in the eye,
and wondered if my Johnny had,
a greater faith than I?

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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John 4: (NIV)7When a Samaritan woman came to draw water, Jesus said to her, "Will you give me a drink?" 8(His disciples had gone into the town to buy food.) 9The Samaritan woman said to him, "You are a Jew and I am a Samaritan woman. How can you ask me for a drink?" (For Jews do not associate with Samaritans.)10Jesus answered her, "If you knew the gift of God and who it is that asks you for a drink, you would have asked him and he would have given you living water."11"Sir," the woman said, "you have nothing to draw with and the well is deep. Where can you get this living water? 12Are you greater than our father Jacob, who gave us the well and drank from it himself, as did also his sons and his flocks and herds?"13Jesus answered, "Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, 14but whoever drinks the water I give him will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life."

The Way To The Cross 2-28-09

So you want directions?
You're at a loss?
You want me to point
the way to the cross?

Well, it's not a "direction",
and not about speed -
but get there, you're able -
you sure can, indeed.

You can't go by auto,
nor by a plane,
A rocket won't help you -
nor will a train.

You can't use your eyes
to see your way there,
You can't use your ears
or recite a prayer.

But close your eyes, listen -
to that still, small voice,
which draws you in closer.
God gives you a choice.

To choose a direction
would tear you apart,
but listen, you're closer
to your very heart.

To find that old cross,
don't look through the trees.
Just humble yourself
and drop to your knees.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Cross On Over 2-28-09

Do you know in this world that there's no guarantee?
Cross on over to Calvary.

If you're lonely right now to such a degree...
Cross on over to Calvary.

Strip all pride away that keeps you from Me.
Cross on over to Calvary.

You may be confused, but do not flee.
Cross on over to Calvary.

I am the bridge that you can see.
Cross on over to Calvary.

Leave your troubles, world debris.
Cross on over to Calvary.

Grace is yours, always free.
Cross on over to Calvary.

See Calvary's tree.
Cross on over to Calvary.

Your faith is key.
Cross on over to Calvary.

There's no fee.
Cross on over to Calvary.

You, Me.
Cross on over to Calvary.

We.
Cross on over to Calvary.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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John 14:6 (NASB) Jesus said to him, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me."

Poet's Prayer 2-27-09

"Father," I pray as I walk along,

"give me the words that would flow like a song.

A poem of promise, of hope and of love

that would focus lost sinners on You up above....

The moon's shining bright from behind an oak branch,

but it's cold here tonight on my dear humble ranch.

I'd be so happy if I was a tree,

for they stand much taller, much taller than me.

Their tops are much closer to Heaven I know,

and they just get closer, the more that they grow.

There's no clouds in the sky - but if so, they would be

joyously singing up there with Thee.

The stars in the sky seem much brighter tonight.

They must be so close they reflect Heaven's light.

The gold, alabaster - the pearls and brass

I bet shine like prisms through diamond-like glass.

Oh, to get closer to Heaven - one peek....

could give me the thoughts that would make these words speak.

The sights would bring words and to earth I could bring

the poem of poems.  Itself, it would sing.

Instead, here I stand in the shivering cold,

a mindless numb man who was late getting old.

But here, down on earth, I'll perform every task,

and faithfully do everything that You ask.

I know that these people will not have a clue,

because this small poem cannot describe You.

So quickly this world forgets who You are,

They miss (as they're sleeping), the bright Morning Star.

I know that the God of Love's heart had to grieve,

when Heaven's gates opened to let Your Son leave -

to die on a cross that folks want to forget.

They just do not care - not one little bit.

But because of Your grace- and faith, I believe -

for You're the Great Poet and me, You don't leave.

You live deep within, so I'll faithfully start -

for the greatest of poems come deep from the heart.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

(We merely reflect God's wonders...)

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A Cardboard Christian? 2-26-09

Are you a cardboard Christian - who folds so neatly out,
then goes to church on Sunday - yet seldom goes without?

Do you look good to others - yet void beneath the skin -
a box that never carried fruit, a box that should begin?

Wake up! and look to Jesus! Do not be weary eyed!
Did He not pray profusely - that night before He died?

Are you a cardboard Christian - a shadow on the wall,
a ceiling fan that spins around but never hears His call?

He calls from that old rugged cross - the perfect sacrifice.
Do we deny like Peter - not once, not twice, but thrice?

Is your sword made up of plastic? Is your helmet made of tin?
Is your breastplate sounding hollow? Is your shield paper thin?

Take up your cross and follow Him. Take up your yoke and plow.
Was that huge stone not rolled away? Is He not living now?

Don't focus in the mirror - but on our God above.
for we are merely blood and guts - but He's the God of love!

Some questioned Jesus and His ways. Don't be a doubting Thomas.
Focus on the "least of these" and listen to His promise!

Wake up! and smell God's roses! Lift up your voices, sing!
Raise high your hands and stomp your feet and praise our Lord and King!

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Knocking at the Door 2-22-09

Can you believe it?? My team is up by ten!!
With this interception, we might just score again!!
This is so exciting - and now they'll run the clock -
but what was that? I heard a knock, knock, knock.

Probably a salesman. "Go away!" I yelled!
(I was MUCH too busy with the remote control I held).
Just one quarter more to go and then it's the division.
Knock, knock, knock I heard again - but I made my decision.

I snatched up popcorn in my fist and stuffed it in my mouth,
and should they win this final game - they will be headed south.
I grabbed a drink, opened it and chugged down half a can.
No one ever questioned it - that I'm their biggest fan!

Knock, knock, knock I heard again. Grrrrrr, "I don't want any!!!"
This is SO important. It's now third down and twenty.
UGH - they scoop a fumble, with a touchdown spike the ball -
now with only three points up, my team could finally fall.

Knock, knock, knock. Okay, that's it. This I won't forgive!
I got up off my special throne. I have advice to give!
I flung the door wide open - gazed with a deadly stare,
then poked my head out quickly - asked, "Is anybody there?"

Silence - 'cept for a neighbor, "Did you see who that was?"
I yelled back, "I do not care - and care less what he does!"
he called back, "Do not get mad - and certainly don't cuss!
The man you didn't answer to was none-other than Jesus."

Jesus? - (my thoughts ran wild) was knocking at MY door?
My priorities I straightened now, not worried 'bout the score.
"He's gone." I thought discouraged, "I didn't hear His voice.
That game was too important - and I had made my choice."

"Jesus!" I yelled out loud, "Come! I really care!"
But the neighborhood was silent, and Jesus wasn't there.
"Did I miss a chance?" I thought. An ambulance drove up.
Men ran through my open door and shocked my little pup.

I ran back to see it all - and I sure got a scare,
for there I was a-sittin' - dead in my special chair.
So my life is over (sobbing), give me one more chance!
That game was not important as - I fell into a trance....

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org

Revelation 3:20 (NASB) "Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me."

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Poem From Jesus 2-21-09

If Jesus wrote a poem,
and shipped it down the ladder,
would He send it lovingly,
condoning empty chatter?

Or really, if He wrote one
would He truly have a fit?
I wonder what He'd tell us -
well, maybe this is it...

---

"My dearest child, I love you.
You'll never know how much.
I see you but I can't appear
through prayer.  Please keep in touch.

If you saw Me, you'd believe,
but faith would fade away.
I wish you'd pray once in awhile,
you really should today.

Have a heart, I reach for yours,
with both my wounded hands -
but know you're much too far away
from Heaven's perfect lands.

So grace I give abundantly -
please listen to my voice.
It's still a sweet, soft whisper,
I give you all a choice.

You know My time is not your time.
I hung for not mere hours -
and oh, that wicked cross I bore
still has its sacred powers.

The whip, the torture, rope and nails
still pains me yet today -
when I see all my people -
forget me, go astray.

It's then my tears in torrents pour,
they come in drenching rains.
Those winds are my mere whispers
that blow across the plains.

I formed you in my image.
I made you good and true,
but then allowed a serpent
and left it up to you.

Many were deceived by him,
from Adam's time 'til now.
Their faith grew on the simple,
mere earthly things allow.

So trivial your wishes,
on petty things you feed.
Please stumble not on Satan's lie -
remember 'mustard seed'?.

My grace was all sufficient
for every soul on earth -
but faith is all I ever asked
from you who want rebirth.

I created you, a human,
not a servant angel.
Faith will choose the Heavens -
the lack, forever hell.

By grace you are saved through faith
not grace alone to coast -
nor by any other means,
nor works, that you might boast.

Few enter through the narrow gate.
They listen to instruction.
But most will focus not on me,
but wide path to destruction.

Oh, please believe I love you.
You, my precious few.
Because of faith I chose you.
Your faith has seen you through.

My dearest child, I love you.
You'll never know how much -
so pray until I bring you home
to feel this Master's touch."

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Matthew 7 (NASB)
13 Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.
14 But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

Prayer Poem (of love) 2-20-09

I pray this soiled poem that's
so tattered, torn and curled,
finds its way to every eye
around this wicked world.
Pen and ink have spilled my love
upon this paper's face.
I've poured out every ounce of love,
then added Father's grace.

I walked this soiled paper out -
right to my mail box.
and know that it was carried far,
for several, several blocks.
It found its way on semi's,
on trains, on airplanes too -
then criss-crossed 'round this big ol' world,
to make its way to you.

I pray that my concern for you
disperses not in vapor.
My prayer behind these lonely words
cries out within this paper.
I've been in your shoes many times
and no, I've not been perfect,
but here it is, this poem's yours
with utmost, dear respect.

This poem's traveled many miles
and now it so appears,
it is for you, for you to read,
here after all these years...
Take now, a bold and humble step
to find out something new.
Around the world this poem came -
and now it's here for you.

---

"Oh Father, see this poem that
I'm holding in my hands?
It's been to several countries and
its seen so many lands.
But now it's here, I'm holding it.
It really is for me -
and I am so discouraged that
I ask to be set free.

"Just like this letter, traversed I,
so many, many miles.
Yes, I've been lost for many years.
Sin stole so many smiles.
My heart was cold just like the tree
that stands collecting moss.
Until this poem had searched me out,
I could not see Your cross.

"Now Father, You have changed me
from black to perfect white -
and I have put your armor on.
I'll be your special knight.
This shield of faith protects me and
my sword, I'll always read.
And in it, I'll find answers to
my every, every need.

"Now thank you for my special friend
who cared enough to give -
this love-filled poem to me so -
so now, I too, can live.
I'm sending this small poem on
so other friends can see.
But now I know why it's so soiled -
I've added tears from me."

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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