"I want to thank all those who come from around the world and read the poetry that God has inspired me with to make the world a more pleasant and peaceful place. This site shall always be totally free for everyone with no tracking, pop-up ads & videos or other distractions." ~louis gander

June 3, 2011

My Awesome God 6-3-11

Fanny Crosby 1820-1915

I smell the fragrance of the pines
and hear each nature sound.
Something envelopes my thoughts.
Creation's all around.

I sit for several hours but
I can't a sentence write.
Will I be trying hours more,
to write throughout the night?

You'd have to wear some special shoes
to see my unique view -
yet empty are the words I find
explaining God to you.

So try to close your eyes awhile -
in patience.  It's alright.
I'll pray that angels sprinkle words
to help me say this right...

If you could see His miracles
in all I've been forgiven -
if you could also understand the gifts
to me, that He has given -

I wouldn't need to write one word.
His light, you'd finally see -
and understand my awesome God,
though you aren't blind like me.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Written as I'm reminded of Fanny Crosby (1820-1915), a blind poet who wrote nearly 9,000 poems/hymns such as “Pass me not, O gentle Saviour,” “Sweet hour of prayer,” “Safe in the arms of Jesus,” “All the way my Saviour leads me,” “Jesus is tenderly calling thee home,” “I am thine, O Lord,” “Rescue the perishing,” “Speed away,” “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine,” and “Jesus keep me near the Cross"..

Once a Scotch minister remarked to her, “I think it is a great pity that the Master, when He showered so many gifts upon you, did not give you sight.”
She answered: “Do you know that, if at birth I had been able to make one petition to my Creator, it would have been that I should be made blind?”
“Why?” asked the surprised preacher.
 “Because, when I get to heaven, the first face that shall ever gladden my sight will be that of my Saviour.”*

 *Moseley H. Williams, The Sunday School World, (Lesson for Aug. 19, 1900 The man born blind, Applications and Illustrations) pg. 302

May 31, 2011

Heaven Help Us! 5-31-11


Whether a grown-up, a child, or a teen -
We want to be noticed, we want to be seen.

We buy a new auto, with soft leather seats -
or buy a new wardrobe that nobody beats.. 

But buying top brands at all the best stores -
is just simply futile if showing our drawers.

 Our pants must be pulled up with shirt tucked down in -
and must walk with stature, as dignified men. 

Ingrained are small habits in ways we have found -
to draw the attention of folks all around.

But I am much better than all of the rest.
There's no need to ask me.  I'm simply the best.

And seldom - oh, seldom - so seldom I see -
a person more humble - more humble than me.

I don't spit tobacco, gossip, or 'cuss' -
so please, Heaven help them - to notice Jesus.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 29, 2011

Each Minute 5-29-11



When things go good,
and all is well -
there is no thought
or fear of hell.

But when things change,
and death is tasted -
regret, we will,
each minute wasted.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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The Mighty Floodgates 5-29-11


Speared I am, right through the heart.
My soul awakes,
my pencil shakes,
my paper takes...
the thoughts I've never wrote before.
I don't know why,
my eyes were dry,
I couldn't cry.

My former heart was cold and hard -
I did not know,
the melting snow,
the sunset's glow...
and found, I too, a reservoir -
of many years,
a wall of tears,
as flooding nears.

So sought I tear, where soft and warm -
among the weak,
among the meek,
on Jesus' cheek...
where it dripped down upon the ground -
where there was loss,
and there was dross,
beneath the cross.

So now it's soft, my broken heart -
a world stain,
a greater pain,
is greater gain -
and the mighty floodgates opened -
and now know why,
my eyes aren't dry,
and I can cry.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 28, 2011

Welcome Home! 5-28-11


The prodigal son,
took his share and run.
The world revolves around Rome?
Provisions ran out,
as he ran about -
but his father said, "Welcome Home!"

Decorations done,
another war won.
The world revolves around Rome?
With Serviceman's grin,
he entered therein,
then heard them all shout, "Welcome Home!"

Once under clover,
all will be over.
The world revolves around Rome?
In blink of an eye,
I know I will cry,
when Jesus proclaims, "Welcome Home!"

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 27, 2011

Why You? 5-27-11


When liars win, life isn't fair -
not one will ever, ever care -
life's burdens are too much to bear.
Why me Lord?

I stand down by the ocean shore -
the poison seeps down to my core -
there's none who listen anymore -
Why me Lord?

My love grew cold, my anger hot -
my gut twists in each kind of knot -
it pains me so, an awful lot -
Why me Lord?

The ocean waves still seem to race -
they crest, then spill most anyplace -
but waves ignore my grieving face -
Why me Lord?

My problems grew and come to meet -
as water wraps around my feet -
I'm tired, exhausted, very beat -
Why me Lord?

The waves roll in for years and years -
through all my trials, all my fears -
my cheeks have felt so many tears -
Why me Lord?

My heart, for others, has out-poured -
yet something pulls on my heart's cord -
of everyone who I've ignored -
Why You Lord?

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 25, 2011

My Fuel 5-25-11


Whoa! I take a second look!
I turned my head and eyed -
the sleekness of the sporty lines.
Now that's a fancy ride!

Shiny chrome and glossy wheels,
style, impressive too.
So numerous, the gadgets -
great quality clear through.

The leather seats, the clock and cruise,
the 'cockpit' steals my soul,
the gauges, so exquisite -
I lose all self-control.

The engine starts. It comes to life -
and roars to the extreme.
It sucks the gas from finite tank
in non-stop, steady stream.

My focus and attention,
are drawn by things of men -
which lose me in a cloud of fog,
which seek another sin.

In many ways, we 'sin' in style -
by boat or plane or car.
Though man can reach to moon and Mars,
can only get so far...

There's limits to the spending,
there's limits to the days,
there's limits to the envies of,
man's many sinful ways...

Yet grace, the engine of man's soul -
is ready, always willing.
And God wills that we come to Him -
but gas tank still needs filling.

Just one alone, the fuel is,
if focused we will be.
Though greater is the mustard seed -
faith fuels men, like me.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 24, 2011

Plugged In? 5-24-11


Are we a mere computer,
or have we skin and souls?
Have we hearts that often break -
with sometime mixed-up goals?

This world has seen some changes,
and many, not so good.
We often think of only 'self'
instead of what we should.

Maybe fault is not our own -
as when we are abused.
Eden's Garden, this is not -
when innocent are 'used'.

Can people be deleted?
Do friends no longer stay?
Are people simply 'products' that
some use - then throw away?

We plug in our computers
and we are 'plugged in' too -
but sometimes we will sit alone -
when real friends are few.

Computers do not have a heart,
and neither have they pain -
but people hurt from inside-out
and often times complain.

Brand new software will not work
when 'human' minds compute.
When control-alt-delete won't work,
we simply don't reboot.

When computers go awry -
we wipe the hard-drive clean -
but people cannot soon forget,
and must on shoulders lean.

Water kills computers,
and they don't cry in tears -
but people have the right to weep
to God who always hears.

FOR GOD knows every truth there is,
and pain He will erase -
if we will only seek His truth
and troubles squarely face.

We either love this life we have
on pathways we have trod -
or we can get unplugged from earth,
and get 'plugged in' to God!

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 21, 2011

How Dare You! 5-21-11


How dare you tell me what to do -
you little Christian man!
You hide inside your little world -
I'll do just what I can.

How dare you tell me what to do -
you talk big - then you quit!
You claim to help the poor and meek,
but you're a hypocrite.

How dare you tell me what to do -
it's legal... gambling, booze.
So keep your morals off of me,
I'll do just what I choose.

How dare you tell me what to do!
Send me a little food!
I spent a bit on 'joints' and stuff.
I'm in depressive mood.

How dare you tell me what to do!
You know it's how life goes.
Don't leave me to the elements,
but buy me newer clothes.

How dare you tell me what to do -
in comforts of your home.
Basic shelter is a need -
yet, place to place, I roam.

How dare you tell me what to do!
Your morals, keep off me!
Just find a cure for my disease -
and happy I will be.

How dare you tell me what to do!
My rights? My needs and wants!
Health care costs are through the roof -
so pay all my insurance.

How dare you pray to your great God.
He made me down to lie,
He led me by still waters and,
He made me want to cry.

Just leave me be. Ignore me -
until some future date.
Just let me live the way I want -
until it is too late.

These may not be the words you said.
Don't be offended so...
"How dare you!" were the words I said,
so many years ago.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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2 Corinthians 5:17 (NASB)
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, new things have come.

  
Psalm 23 (NASB)
 1 The LORD is my shepherd,
  I shall not want. 
  2 He makes me lie down in green pastures;
  He leads me beside quiet waters. 
  3 He restores my soul;
  He guides me in the paths of righteousness
For His name's sake.
  4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
  I fear no evil, for You are with me;
  Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 
  5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
  You have anointed my head with oil;
  My cup overflows. 
  6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life,
  And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

May 19, 2011

Apron Strings 5-19-11


When I was young,
I often clung,
to many little things.
I'd reach up high,
again retie,
my mama's apron strings.

I sometimes did,
what mom forbid,
although she'd make it clear.
Thoughts still linger.
I remember,
through each fleeting year.

Acquainted still,
her stories thrill,
with many left untold.
I can't go back,
though mem'ries track,
to years I'd rather hold.

I'm lost in thought,
it can't be caught,
despite my futile search -
mama singing,
mama bringing,
this small boy to church.

Though I was touched,
and changed so much,
through Christ, the perfect One -
I cannot stay,
time slips away,
from all that she had done.

I try to grasp,
and hands I clasp,
around those many things -
but mem-ry strands,
slip through my hands -
just like those apron strings.

I miss her so.
Emotions show.
There's moistness in my eyes.
I can't withhold,
though I am old,
my oft guilt-ridden cries.

But it's not bad,
for I am glad,
whenever I think of -
my mama's cares,
my mama's prayers,
and her most precious love.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 10, 2011

Coconuts 5-10-11


God made every coconut -
and each day many fall.
There's many 'round about us but,
they never heard His call,

and...
God is ignored.

Walking through a park one day, I
willed not to succumb...
to be a coconut that lacked a speck,
of any Godly wisdom,

but...
God was ignored.

I bent down and picked one up -
much heavier than thought,
(just like the burdens on our backs,
when we are overwrought)

and...
God was ignored.

Still holding that old coconut -
my conscious thoughts had blurred.
As I walked out upon a pier,
I wished God could be heard,

but...
God was ignored.

I wondered just how big of splash
that coconut could make -
so then in fervor, threw that nut -
a great splash in the lake,

and...
God was ignored.

My feet got wet, I shook my head -
and quickly walked away.
It seems as though the world wins.
What more can my God say?

and...
God was ignored.

Curiously, I looked back.
As if it had been gloating,
there bobbing on the little waves,
the coconut was floating.

and...
God was ignored.

Throughout this world, the zombies walk -
in sinful, futile ruts -
and burdens weigh on shoulders as
their hard old coconuts,

and...
God is ignored.

God alone redeems the nut,
and let me tell you what -
that I was just like all the rest -
a stubborn coconut...

but no longer...
was God ignored.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 7, 2011

If Days Could Talk 5-7-11


If days could talk,
what would they say?
What wisdom could we seek?
Listen to each one of them - Day by Day...

Monday says, "Get out of bed!"
as it gives you a jerk.
"Wipe that 'sleep' out of your eyes -
I'm putting you to work!"

Tuesday says, "All is okay.
You've been through this before.
If you could handle yesterday -
then you can handle more."

Wednesday says, "You're halfway done.
You've been through this day too.
Remember all the work you've done,
Reward is up to you.

Thursday says, "Let's plan to have -
an evening of some fun!
Go out and party Friday night.
Have fun with everyone!"

Friday says, "I've got you now -
wrapped around my finger.
Exciting times are just ahead -
so let temptations linger..."

Saturday? Well, here's the truth.
You slept through half the day.
"You did not heed the warning,"
you finally heard it say.

Mistakes were made. You know it.
The fault? Not always yours.
But now, some things will never change.
There are not always cures.

The world really does not care,
if anyone is hurt -
So live each day like Sunday so
more problems you'll avert."

For Sunday says, "Please come to Church.
Your soul is not a game -
and if you know there's more to life -
confess in Jesus' name."

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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May 2, 2011

My Little Boat 5-2-11


Is 'faith' an easy word to say?  Climb in my little boat.
It's not too much to look at but, was built so it could float.

Now hold on tight! We're sailing, across this mighty sea!
And don't look back like Lot's wife did - it's just You, God and me.

We know the storm clouds darken now.  We know the sea is rough.
We see the storms approaching us.  We know it will be tough.

The raging tempests circle in this blinding, windy squall -
the typhoon winds are deafening.  They're blowing horizontal.

The wind picks up around us and life's boat has great surprises -
despite our frantic bailing here, the water level rises...

More breaking waves crash over us.  Our future starts to dim.
Our work is less than futile but, our hope resides in Him.

Freezing rain like 'pelting bullets' stab us like a knife.
Grasping tight to what we can - we hold on fast to life.

Pulled muscles, cuts and aching joints now steal away attention.
We lose, while tossing sick and stunned, sense of all direction.

We cower ever lower then.  Some refuge? There is none.
Our prayers drown in the breaking waves.  Our words lost, every one.

Now most give in about this time.  High hopes, the world sees.
Their dreams are carried off in winds and souls to sinful seas.

In life, we've often sacrificed - but our lives, never gave.
We just get blown around a bit - and tossed from wave to wave.

So all alone, we shiver here - and drenched so thorough, wet.
We see, though stunned to speechless a familiar silhouette.

Now saving us from certain death, with grace for all who sinned -
and walking on the water, Jesus calms the sea and wind.

Life's futile ocean's much too wide for tiny boat and I -
but God gives grace to everyone whose faith is not a lie.

Is 'faith' an easy word to say?  Climb in my little boat.
It's not too much to look at but, with faith, still stays afloat...

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Psalm 107 (KJV)
23 Those who go down to the sea in ships,
Who do business on great waters;
24 They have seen the works of the LORD,
And His wonders in the deep.
25 For He spoke and raised up a stormy wind,
Which lifted up the waves of the sea.
26 They rose up to the heavens, they went down to the depths;
Their soul melted away in their misery.
27 They reeled and staggered like a drunken man,
And were at their wits' end.
28 Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble,
And He brought them out of their distresses.
29 He caused the storm to be still,
So that the waves of the sea were hushed.
30 Then they were glad because they were quiet,
So He guided them to their desired haven.
31 Let them give thanks to the LORD for His lovingkindness,
And for His wonders to the sons of men!

April 20, 2011

Noise, Noise, Noise! 4-20-11


More autos, planes, computer games and toys, toys, toys...
...is this what life is all about - the noise, noise, noise?

If man said He could cut the noise in half, half, half -
I'd not believe. I'm sorry, but I'd laugh, laugh, laugh!

Transparent man - I laugh so hard, I cry, cry, cry...
all it seems we want to do is buy, buy, buy.

God creates, commands and we will see, see, see -
that man has pride - he's foolish as can be, be, be.

Don't let a quiet corner be too rare, rare, rare -
get on your knees and whisper up a prayer, prayer, prayer.

And use your ears - you really have a choice, choice, choice -
to spend some time and listen for His still, small, voice. (1 Kings 19:12)

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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1 Kings 19:11,12 (KJV)
11 And he said, Go forth,
 and stand upon the mount before the LORD.
 And, behold, the LORD passed by,
and a great and strong wind rent the mountains,
 and brake in pieces the rocks before the LORD;
but the LORD was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake;
 but the LORD was not in the earthquake:  12 And after the earthquake a fire;
 but the LORD was not in the fire: and after the fire a
still small voice.

April 18, 2011

Nothing More To Fear 4-18-11


It's greener on the other side,
in wanting, we will go -
the other side of the mountain,
or over the great rainbow...

to eye-catching colored places,
to fun and friends galore -
to shopping malls and diners -
to parties, clubs and more.

We watch our favorite movies,
we know each actor's name -
we talk about our sports team -
we play our favorite game.

We pick and choose our pathways,
we hide in our own way -
we talk until life's over when
there's nothing else to say.

In nakedness, we stand alone,
in all our filth and pride -
with lack of faithfulness exposed,
there's no more place to hide.

God sits alone on His great throne
when over, are the games -
and fair and just the truth will be -
green pastures or the flames...

Be fruitful as you live your day.
Be faithful in your walk.
Be diligent in all you do.
Be humble in your talk.

As long as God still gives us breath,
as long as we're sincere -
as long as we repent of all -
there's nothing more to fear.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Isaiah 35:4 (KJV)
Say to those with anxious heart, "Take courage, fear not Behold, your God will come with vengeance; The recompense of God will come, But He will save you."

April 3, 2011

SPEED! 4-3-11


The hare runs very swiftly,
for ten years he can go -
but patient, walks the turtle for
a hundred years or so...

---

Rounding curves, squealing with a
couple hundred horses -
stretched out over lawful edge,
anticipating forces.

Sporty style and glossy paint -
surpassing every class -
clean and polished, buffed and waxed,
with tinted window glass.

Transmissions humming through the gears,
bring screeching to the tires -
and then the booming drowns the streets -
huge speakers strung with wires.

Flying off at green lights hue,
with pedals under lead -
wasting gas, polluting air,
to break at every red...

The pedals crush the metal flat
with heavy laden feet -
yet idle through the drive ups then,
for food that's good to eat.

Running full in circles wide,
while rushing far and near -
important is the coffee cup,
some cigarettes or beer.

Another day, another laugh,
for fun is not a crime!
Let's get the guys together 'cause -
it's almost party time!

Then sharp, the sirens pierce the night,
and everything goes wrong...
A child wandered in the street.
The doctors take too long.

So many people crying,
so many people sad -
so many people blaming God,
so many people mad.

This poem's not about a car,
a cycle, or a van -
but oh, about the drivers there,
the much impatient man...

---

Now God created turtles,
and God created hares -
but then created patient man,
if patient are his prayers.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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PLEASE DRIVE SAFELY - ALWAYS!

Galations 5:18-23 (NASB)
18 But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law. 
19 Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, 
 20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions,

21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.
22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
23 gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

March 29, 2011

He So Loved 3-29-11


Each morn, another sunrise,
on this, I can rely.
A simple thing, so beautiful -
though I do not know why.

Each day, another painting,
as every cloud floats by.
A living art, so beautiful -
though I do not know why.

Each eve, another sunset,
I see the colored sky.
A special sight, so beautiful -
though I do not know why.

Each loving gift, so beautiful,
yet one still makes me cry...
that He so loved a worm as me -
though I do not know why.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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March 20, 2011

Grocery Cart, The 3-20-11


I saw a grocery cart today,
and overflowed, it was, I'd say.
It proudly wore the biggest smile -
pushed along in latest style.

Wow!  Every type of food I saw -
from T-bone steaks to carrots, raw.
Until unto the checkout came -
it didn't seem to look the same.

Now this is what it was about -
when all the food was lifted out...
but don't we understand it still -
that God has overflowed our fill?

Unless sincere and broken are,
grace resides at farthest star.
If faith is absent, there's no grace
outside the walls of Heaven's space.

Wear humbleness and faithful be,
with fruitfulness that's as the sea -
and diligence we must maintain,
for if we're lost - life's all in vain.

And though that cart was quite a sight -
received it not, one single bite.
So don't be like that grocery cart -
that's stuffed with grace, but has no heart.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Hebrews 5 (NASB)
13 For everyone who partakes only of milk is not accustomed to the word of righteousness,
for he is an infant.
14 But solid food is for the mature
who because of practice have their senses trained to discern good and evil.

March 16, 2011

True Love 3-16-11


So many things in body / soul
are empty, undefined -
but read this poem carefully,
and answers you may find.

The knowledge of the Love of God,
comes through in loving stages -
so see if you can find a clue -
within this couple's ages...

.......

The couple faced each other close,
while standing toe to toe.
The clear new day was very young.
They had no place to go.

His right hand held her left hand and,
His left hand held her right.
He slid a daisy through her hair.
She was a pretty sight.

The springtime breezes did not quell
the sun's most warmest rays.
As ocean waves kept rolling in,
they held the longest gaze.

Her face was like a sunshine's glow.
Her toes sank in the sand.
Her hair flipped in the open breeze.
Her fingers squeezed his hand.

Some folks had paused and stared a bit
when softly came the kiss -
but never would a moment pass,
a moment quite like this.

And with these two, that special time
would never go away -
for faithful is that one true love.
There is no better way.

So scenic was the sandy beach,
so beautiful, the pair -
yet only God creates true love
that I saw perfect there.

.......

Now just in case you're wondering,
what ages they could be...
Well, she's but two years younger than
his age of eighty-three.

So if assumptions, you had made -
in story told above -
you may have also missed the mark,
of true Agape Love.

Therefore, question all the writings,
discovered here and there,
that often miss the God of Love -
the hearer of each prayer.

And don't have shallow notions or,
wear blinders to 'believe' -
or come to some conclusion that
some well-known 'experts' weave.

Sometimes we think we know it all,
when all the facts we weigh -
but we do not create the God
who loves us every day.

©2011 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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March 10, 2011

Hope 3-10-11


In despair,
we'll sometimes be.
At these times can we cope?
Yet always free,
if we can see
the One who offers hope.

©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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February 20, 2011

To Heaven's Doors 2-20-11


What is music to the deaf?
What are rainbows to the blind?
What are shoes worn by the lame?
What mere words can so define...
a special Son,
sent to a cross,
in a world,
forever lost?

What are dollars to a horse?
What are needles without thread?
What are tears without our grief?
What are Bibles to the dead?
Our ears must hear.
Our eyes must see.
Beyond the graves
our faith must be.

His loving grace,
forever pours -
draws walking faith,
to Heaven's doors.
Words are pathways,
nothing more.
There's Someone we
must cry out for.

©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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January 27, 2011

Knocks And Locks 1-23-11


How can we expect our God
to open Heaven's locks -
when we ignore His Son who stands
at our heart's door and knocks?

©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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Revelation 3:19-21 (KJV)

 19As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent.
 20Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.
 21To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

January 23, 2011

One And Only 1-23-11


One day soon we'll leave this world -
this world of wicked sin -
so where's the key to Heaven's Gate,
that we may step right in?

It isn't found in idols,
in silver, gold or wood -
It isn't found inside a prayer,
nor through intentions, good.

It isn't found in our career,
nor through some unclaimed perk -
It isn't found by our own hands,
nor through our greatest work.

It isn't found in churches,
or found inside a hymn.
It isn't found in human thoughts
nor through our newest whim.

It's not found in theology,
nor through man's greatest book.
It's found in yet another place -
...if only we would look.

God created just one key,
to fit in locks designed,
to hold the gate to Heaven shut -
and it's the one to find.

Heaven's gate accepts one key -
and it's the only one -
forged by grace and turned with faith
in His begotten Son.

Heaven's gate, forever locked
and firmly shut, will be -
unless within our heart we hold
that one and only key.

©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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January 17, 2011

Joyful Tears 1-17-11


In quantities, our teardrops fall,
they drip off sorry faces -
resulting from our broken hearts.
We save them in our vases -
for yet another lofty dream -
another selfish rose.
Is anyone the wiser?
Tell me no one knows.

And here, our vases set alone,
still filled with empty dreams.
Oh, everybody has them -
it's just the way, it seems.
It's popularity for some -
for others; riches, gold.
But when it's over, said and done,
their rose is dead and cold.

The tears we shed are endless,
and from our souls drawn.
We water every selfish want -
then later wish them gone.
We hold our very special vase -
we think of only 'me' -
but rather where still waters are -
our tears of joy should be.

Do roses last forever?
There is a day they die -
then scattered are the pieces of
the heart that happened by.
Lost pieces, scattered everywhere -
forever, broken are -
and at the end of shattered dreams,
there's one eternal scar.

When in, our earthly dreams, we live,
regret is always sure -
for when we grow our selfish rose,
it simply won't endure.
I often wonder why we work,
and waste away the years -
accomplishing so little with
such lonely, painful tears.

So walk beside still waters.
Through joyful tears you'll see -
a love that never wavers and,
a grace that's always free.
And if your faith is watered
and grows from day to day -
there's really nothing more to do -
for joyful is the way!

©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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January 11, 2011

The Strongest Man 1-11-11


When we are asked, "Who's stronger?"
we think so 'physical'.
We often think of Sampson -
not strength within the skull.

The strongest Man who ever lived -
had not a fist fight won -
but He had conquered challenges
and never quit 'til done.

He handled every mocking
and hateful, slimy spit.
He handled every whipping
while skin from scourging split.

Stronger was the 'weaker' Man,
who walked a lonely road.
Wearing thorns, they mocked Him and,
collapsed He, under load.

Huge nails set His hands and feet,
while teeth were tightly grit -
but never had He wavered.
He never once had quit.

Screams may echo over hills,
against the stormy skies -
but stronger is the faithful Man -
despite His painful cries.

Many brag and pound their chest -
their muscles, we can see -
but where you hear the loudest cry,
the stronger Man will be.

©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

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December 24, 2010

Footprints Found 12-24-10


From birth, thrown in a frightful scene,
as life unveils its scroll.
We travel to and fro until
a pathway finds our soul.
Our days are dark and dreary.
Our nights are long and cold.
But here on earth we break our trail -
until we all grow old.

...

I broke my lonely pathway.
I traveled all alone -
and it, a unique pathway -
none else had ever known.
I traveled my own pathway.
I'd everything to lose.
But no one knew my pathway and -
no one wore my shoes.

One day I happened on a trail
aside from sin and hate -
but few were drawn onto it -
so narrow and so straight.
And on it I saw footprints,
that wavered, not the least.
I followed them most carefully
though problems never ceased.

That pathway found no safety -
and I had questioned 'why?'.
I heard the growling animals.
Black vultures circled high.
A lion jumped in front of me.
I froze - my faith devoid.
My goal, career and future were
virtually destroyed.

I heard loud screams from others -
more painful shrieks and cries -
and yes, I still was frightened -
not cloaked from sin and lies.
A jungled mess of selfishness,
a shadowed woods misguided -
drove the anger ever close.
My fear had not subsided.

Yet... steady still, those footprints.
They wavered not a bit.
They never once had faltered.
That 'someone' never quit.
I stopped and rested quite awhile,
then carried on again.
Faith had urged me onward so -
to flee from evils sin.

Still wavered not, those footprints,
still spaced the same apart -
this 'Someone' had a purpose,
this 'Someone' had a heart.
They led straight to a clearing.
It was so peaceful there.
I stopped and saw a beauty, to
which nothing could compare.

My mouth fell open, as to speak.
Mere words were at a loss.
I saw those faithful footprints aim -
directly to a cross.
Then clumsily, I stumbled -
I grasped that mighty tree.
My 'little faith' reached for support,
until grace lifted me.

'Born again', I was that day,
when I was made complete.
I hugged that bloody, splintered cross -
'til back upon my feet.
And yes, my eyes were opened.
Spilt blood had left the hint.
For clearly seen in crimson was -
His faithful, final print.

...

God sees us run in circles as,
we leave prints deep in clay.
He sees our every footprint as -
we're lost along the way;
Our path is never narrow,
nor straightway Heaven-bound -
and feet are either on our paths -
or in His footprints found.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Matthew 7:14 (King James Version)
Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way,
which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.

November 27, 2010

Too Little, Too Late 11-27-10

A homeless mom - some food can't buy,
she looks for work - but I don't cry.
I've my career, white shirt and tie.
I have my job. I cannot cry.

A thirsty boy, with mouth so dry.
The streets are hot - but I don't cry.
Don't questions ask, and don't ask 'why'.
I have my bills. I cannot cry.

Handicapped girl, about to die,
she goes unseen - so I don't cry.
That I don't care - please don't imply.
I'm much too rushed. I cannot cry.

The sermons heard week after week -
but still no tear runs down my cheek.
But I will try, as days go by -
some day I'll care and surely cry.

How many suffered is unclear.
Was selfish I, year after year?
One day [before my God] I'll stand -
when it's too late to understand.

For God shall hear another cry.
He'll see another infant die.
And then He'll hear and see me try -
to bring a tear to my dry eye...

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Luke 11:40-42 (NASB)
40 "You foolish ones, did not He who made the outside make the inside also?
41 "But give that which is within as charity, and then all things are clean for you.
42 "But woe to you Pharisees!
For you pay tithe of mint and rue and every kind of garden herb,
and yet disregard justice and the love of God;
but these are the things you should have done without neglecting the others...."

November 22, 2010

Diamond's Glitter 11-22-10


Breezes and the sun can make -
diamonds shimmer on the lake.
Jewels seen but can't be touched,
can't be clutched -
and always fake.

Running to and fro and hither -
never call a man a quitter -
finding glimmer on the waves,
like busy slaves -
chasing glitter.

With every single passing cloud -
that floats on by, that laughs out loud -
at mans feeble, vain attempt,
in full contempt -
the rich and proud.

The root of evil, Satan's tools,
reveals imitation jewels -
then proves beyond a shadow's doubt,
a wisdom drought -
from greedy fools.

So please observe creation, vast -
clouds move slowly, time moves fast.
Don't let Earth's jewels make you thirst -
put others first,
and put you last...

as Jesus did upon the tree,
the sacrifice, for you, for me.
Pass by the glimmers on the lake -
those diamonds, fake.
His Spirit, free.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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October 31, 2010

God Knows 10-31-10


When churches fall away from God,
when theology is focused cause,
when government turns back on you,
when they create acidic laws,

when business can't get any worse,
when banks and vendors receive bail,
when bills aren't paid and debts go up,
when you, though innocent, will fail,

when even friends have gone astray,
when each mistake is yours to claim,
when heavy skies come crushing down,
when you take every speck of blame,

when children do not talk to you,
when arms are present, not the hug,
when spouse seems very distant too,
when deep in every hole dug,

when rain comes down, in buckets pour,
when clouds are whipped and tempest tossed,
when friendly wagging tail stops,
when even your best dog is lost,

when all seems dead and all seems grave,
when all you've done has been a curse,
when none can help, though say they care,
when all goes sour, bad to worse,

when life proves fragile, hopeless too,
when everything gets out of hand -
remember, God knows every truth,
and will, forever, understand.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Matthew 19:28-30 (NASB)
28 And Jesus said to them, "Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

29 "And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or farms for My name's sake, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life.

30 "But many who are first will be last; and the last, first."

October 10, 2010

My Grandma's Way 10-10-10


Above all things, above the sky -
like a balloon that's sailing high.
This perspective, Heaven's view -
and here above, God sees all too.

Over rainbows, cottony clouds -
and back a-ways too, I think out loud -
to greener times, to early days -
to simpler life and better ways.

Far down below in memory etched,
at grandma's house, her clothes line stretched.
I saw clothes hung in certain space,
as clothes pins held each one in place.

In standard form, no wind could jilt -
the smallest sock or largest quilt.
Though Grandma's clothes would often dance,
that wicked wind had ne'r a chance.

It all was simple, very fine,
when grandma took clothes off her line.
And though were dried in simple care,
today her words just wouldn't dare.

Some green-enviro talking heads,
(while separating whites and reds),
might brag while more pollutions spew,
while leaning on their dryers, new.

Though grandma's tongue was as a whip -
"just like a bee sting" we would quip -
her honest, tight and sanctioned deeds,
had filled a life, fulfilling needs.

Her winter canned goods kept us fed,
and she had extra, neighbors said.
Her flower bed received great care,
with colored roses everywhere.

She had no debt, (no card for sure),
worked very hard, had character.
She saved her pennies, saved her dimes -
but lost it all (inflated times...)

....

I soon descend. Balloon deflates,
to current times, to current dates -
and see a truth of future dim,
while looking out where life is grim.

A time of envy, want and fist,
a time when freedoms can't exist.
A time and place that makes man sweat -
where deeds go limp and eyes go wet.

All mortgaged off - Miss Liberty,
Mount Rushmore too, as I can see.
And also mortgaged, please discern -
the parks and trees. Too late we'll learn.

Each public asset, private too,
will all be seized when overdue.
Our current assets we have bled -
and future income 'til we're dead.

Simmering slowly, each tax rate -
will come to boil when it's too late.
Our blood will cover how much ground,
for basic freedoms, next time 'round?

Lust and envy, pride and greed -
raw love of money, root and seed.
While we're sold off, piece after piece -
in massive debt, our freedoms cease.

This Nation's great and standing tall,
of people proud, before their fall.
Piece after piece, we each are cursed -
and this is slavery at its worst.

These newer ways got out of line,
and of the times, this is the sign.
While grandma's way was always fair -
but try her way? They wouldn't dare!

Now all alone with assets few -
her farm is gone, the fields too.
Her bank bankrupt. A brand new dawn -
with neighbors and her savings gone.

Though once so blind, I couldn't see.
She had her ways - now her ways, me.
At times a quiet tear she shed,
remembering her loved rose bed.

The shirt they took was really mine,
that once hung there on grandma's line.
Soon lost forever, I do say -
if we can't live my grandma's way.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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October 1, 2010

When Burdens Weigh 10-01-10

We reach so high,
and often try -
to touch the Master's hand.
Outstretched we cry,
yet wonder why -
His distant Promised Land...

His people ran
as they began -
to see the waters part.
Fulfilled God's plan,
a humble man -
from deep within his heart.

We raise hands far,
with feet in tar -
we try so, even higher.
Yet still we are,
so plainly par -
in circumstances dire.

Still true today,
let come what may -
and every trial too.
When burdens weigh,
just humbly pray -
so God can come to you.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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September 10, 2010

Lonely Acorn 9-10-10


Lonely is the acorn
from way atop the oak -
tumbling fast through branches,
down past all other folk.

Lonely, not the squirrel
emerging from its hut -
and storing safe for winter,
that lowly, little nut.

Lonely is the acorn,
buried in the ground -
who once survived in sadness,
where truth was seldom found.

Lonely, not the the hunter
who stands behind his gun,
who aims at his next target,
who shoots it on the run.

Lonely is the tap root
that grows down in so deep,
drawing up the moisture,
so life itself, can keep.

The hunters haunt the hunted
with minds so twisted, twirled -
and satisfied will never be,
in this defining world.

Not useful as a mortal nut,
no longer living free -
so bury it, if that's the wish,
but some day it will be...

...a mighty tree in stature,
where truth still grows it more,
and though it very lonely,
has acorns by the score.

A tree that feeds the hunted
and hunters faithfully -
but tree still very lonely,
if that's how life must be.

Lonely are the fragile,
and lonely are the weak -
so lonely are the trampled,
and lonely too, the meek.

Popular the answers taste,
for queries others feed -
and hunger pangs will linger on,
until all truth is freed.

But springs of living water,
is where God's truth is found -
so count it as a blessing,
when buried in the ground.

Numerous and popular
are lies that pass the tooth -
but lonely still, the acorn,
and lonely too, the truth.

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Deuteronomy 6:14 (NASB)
"You shall not follow other gods,
any of the gods of the peoples who surround you..."

John 4:10 (KJV)
Jesus answered and said unto her,
If thou knewest the gift of God,
and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink;
thou wouldest have asked of him,
and he would have given thee living water.

August 23, 2010

The Last Whistle 8-23-10


The train is now ready on strong, sturdy tracks.
The engine stands idle, yet nothing it lacks.

So soon will depart this old world by and by -
and faithfully leave in a blink of an eye.

The tracks lay ahead - in parallel rails -
laid firmly on ties fastened tightly with nails.

The nails that hold each limb in its place,
painfully centered, reflected on face.

The roadsides are flowered where souls still mourn -
but not beside rails still bordered by thorn.

The narrow, so straight, is still railing in pain.
Though great are the treasures, so few receive gain.

The first whistle blows with full steam in the plume.
The time dwindles quickly. There's plenty of room.

Again - second whistle - recorded in Word.
The smoke starts to billow, with whistle unheard.

Is heart fully in it? Be sure, Heaven knows -
so who is on board as the last whistle blows?

©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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2 Peter 3:9 (KJV)
"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness;
but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish,
but that all should come to repentance."

August 6, 2010

The Old Model T 8-6-10



Way back when, in nineteen twelve
a Model T was born.
It rolled past a tumble weed
and field of planted corn.

It traveled several old dirt roads.
It traveled very far.
Its horn played every gospel tune,
on strings, with its guitar.

Then one day it fell in love.
The grille turned up a grin.
It found a younger Cadillac -
her horn, a mandolin.

Each week they'd do their gospel sing,
then park in their garage.
And after 'while, five new cars -
their faithful entourage.

It beat me playing horse shoes.
Its 'ringers' made a 'cling'.
It fixed up several houses
and did most everything.

It's need, at times, an oil change,
that slowed it down a bit -
but motor strong, would always purr,
and never, ever quit.

But time did get the best of it -
I think it so unjust -
that this great antique auto
could tarnish, peel and rust.

Suspensions seemed to weaken,
It creaked some here and there.
It'd sometimes blow a gasket
and need one more repair.

Mechanics kept it going
with reasons of 'because'.
It would, at times, need greasin' -
but active, always was.

Many other newer cars
would have an 'accident'.
Disgarded, they were totalled -
and to a junkyard sent.

But this one kept on singing
through every single week -
despite some old parts missing
and battery still weak.

Then slowing to a snails crawl -
for it was not as quick -
I noticed headlights dim a bit.
To 'LOW' it moved the stick.

Oil pools were sometimes found
from places still unknown -
but not a grinding gear you'd hear,
complainings or a groan.

Upholstery did get moldy,
dried and wrinkled, thin -
but gasoline was in its tank.
Some spark was still within.

Sometimes parked in home museums,
folks would gather 'round -
to hear those old, old stories.
I'd hear horns toot the sound.

Then one day this Model T
'tween fenders, under hood -
sputtered some - its engine coughed
with filter plugged up good.

Yet many years, I know not how
it kept on coming back.
I think its little secret was
that big ol' Cadillac.

Ninety eight long years went by,
with memories by the score -
but finally that old motor quit.
It couldn't run no more.

That Cadillac was by his side
'ere since they 'tied the knot',
She never left him in the cold -
she never had forgot.

My memories fade, but never die.
This car, through visions see,
but all great stories have to end -
as with this Model T.


Gaylord K. Gander
May 1, 1912 - Aug. 6, 2010
(my father)


©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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