Get REAL! 2-18-09

With tattoo's ink smeared everywhere,
and piercings by the score -
and color-copied rainbow hair -
how can we handle more?

To get a little self-respect
our clothes must have a label,
our auto's must be perfect or
we all appear unstable.

Eye lashes must be fastened on.
Our scent squirts out from sprayers.
Eye liner must be perfect drawn
with powder caked in layers.

We wear our jewelry with pride
and aging spots we cover.
And wrinkles we can try to hide
so no one will discover.

Through remedies we dig and dig.
We make a real fuss -
but it's like lipstick on a pig,
it's surface, surface, surface!

We try to conquer blunders and
we think we've conquered dull,
but what I have to wonder is -
what's inside the skull?

Man can't look beyond the skin,
Man looks at the face.
Man sees only fat or thin.
Man sees only 'race'.

God sees through all shallowness.
God sees through the skin.
God sees down inside our hearts,
God sees deep within.

Some day we just might teach our youth.
Some day we just might feel.
Some day man might learn Godly truth
and hopefully get REAL!

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

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Picture Frames 2-18-09

Picture frames sure vary so,
no matter, big or small.
They all have work they need to do,
no matter, wide or tall.

Picture frames are so unique,
maple, oak or pine.
But focus not on picture frames,
They're merely for design.

Frames can border a photo.
Frames can border a place.
Frames can border a work of art
or border someone's face.

---

When I was just a little boy,
(and though I was quite small),
a picture I remember well
was hanging on the hall.

I know my father put it there.
It hung for many years.
There it was throughout my teens -
showed sorrow, pain and tears.

That picture was of Jesus
bowed lowly on His knees -
at a huge and solid rock,
near branches on some trees.

His hands were neatly folded.
Love flowed from both His eyes.
His head was tilted way, way back -
His face gazed at the skies.

Dark clouds had covered most the sky.
Moon's rays had lit His face,
and seemed to put a glow around
this humble Man of grace.

For years, that picture on our wall
drew thoughts within my mind...
God sent on down, His only Son,
to sinful men, unkind.

I remember well, that picture.
I don't recall the frame.
So let us frame, that others see,
that they might know His name.

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

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Poems 2-15-09

God's poems are like mustard seeds,
helping those with real needs,
spreading poem's seeds around,
rocky soil and fertile ground.

I pray these seeds will fall on soil,
pulling souls from earthy toil,
growing strong with such great root,
providing more with it's good fruit.

God's poems are like mustard seeds,
helping those with real needs,
and by God's grace, I do implore,
I pray this poem saves one more.

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

Matthew 9:37 (NASB) Then He said to His disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few."
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Time Flies 2-15-09

As I lay down and close my eyes,
God shows me just how fast time flies.
I'm not a child anymore,
those days are past - beyond my door.

Recalling house and first bedroom,
remember fathers old push broom,
mother, always in the kitchen,
the "weird taste" we'd never mention.

My report card, teachers face,
my first car and my first race,
my first love and my first kiss -
but nothing matters except this:

Another day, another week,
another year, it's all oblique.
Resembling any passing weed,
days are never guaranteed.

Jesus gives us each tomorrow,
every day from God we borrow,
and if tonight He chooses me,
very soon His face I'll see.

And when I'm standing at the throne,
I'll be exposed and all alone.
We don't live the past somehow,
for God gives life - right here, right now.

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

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Anchored Soul 2-13-09

If the sea is the world - the ship your soul,
where are you at - and what's your goal?
When storms surge up and darken the skies,
do you know where you're at? Is there fear in your eyes?

Do your troubles seem endless and so overwhelm?
Tell me, "Are you standing alone at the helm?"
Where's the foundation when you're on a ship?
Do you hold to life with a white-knuckled grip?

When the world seems dark, dangerous, cold,
in the storms of life, will your anchor hold?
When shivering rain - sends you into shock,
is your faith secure? Is it in the Rock?

When the cold waves slap at your straining hull,
are you dazed, confused - in your empty skull?
Though the sharp winds slice as a piercing knife,
is your anchor firm from the storms of life?

Do you stay near the shore where it's not so deep?
Are trials so great, you cannot sleep?
When the waves surge over your fragile deck,
I think, overdue - your reality check.

Don't hide down below afraid of the facts.
With Jesus beside you - always relax.
Be bold and set sail! Your life is in hands,
that calms the waters - as He commands....

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

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A Blind Man 2-11-09

It's a privilege to see all the colors abound,
a rainbow of colors of things all around.
My empathy cries out for those who can't see,
and dreading the thought if it happened to me.

I'm thankful for God and His infinite love,
from flowers below and the rainbows above,
but this man was blind from birth until now,
before Jesus came and then healed him how?

He lived in full darkness. No light he had seen.
Can you just imagine location and scene?
Can you imagine the thought of it all?
Spitting in dust, making clay they recall.

And of all days on Sabbath - believe it or not,
the Pharasee's angry. They argued a lot.
They questioned the blind man and his parents too.
They heard all the facts but still hadn't a clue.

He told them the truth but they didn't believe.
They asked him again and then told him to leave.
Those who had eyes were so totally blind,
but Jesus took blindness, rekindled the mind.

It's a privilege to see all the colors abound,
the rainbow of colors of things all around.
My empathy cries out for those who aren't free,
so have faith in Jesus and make yourself see!!

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

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John 9

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

Healing the Man Born Blind

9 As He passed by, He saw a man blind from birth. 2 And His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he would be born blind?” 3 Jesus answered, “It was neitherthat this man sinned, nor his parents; but it was so that the works of God might be displayed in him. 4 We must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the Light of the world.” 6 When He had said this, Hespat on the ground, and made clay of the spittle, and applied the clay to his eyes, 7 and said to him, “Go, wash in the pool of Siloam” (which is translated, Sent). So he went away and washed, andcame back seeing. 8 Therefore the neighbors, and those who previously saw him as a beggar, were saying, “Is not this the one who used to sit and beg?” 9 Others were saying, “This is he,” still others were saying, “No, but he is like him.” He kept saying, “I am the one.” 10 So they were saying to him, “How then were your eyes opened?” 11 He answered, “The man who is called Jesus made clay, and anointed my eyes, and said to me, ‘Go to Siloam and wash’; so I went away and washed, and I received sight.” 12 They said to him, “Where is He?” He *said, “I do not know.”

Controversy over the Man

13 They *brought to the Pharisees the man who was formerly blind. 14 Now it was a Sabbath on the day when Jesus made the clay and opened his eyes. 15 Then the Pharisees also were asking him again how he received his sight. And he said to them, “He applied clay to my eyes, and I washed, and I see.” 16 Therefore some of the Pharisees were saying, “This man is not from God, because Hedoes not keep the Sabbath.” But others were saying, “How can a man who is a sinner perform suchsigns?” And there was a division among them. 17 So they *said to the blind man again, “What do you say about Him, since He opened your eyes?” And he said, “He is a prophet.”

18 The Jews then did not believe it of him, that he had been blind and had received sight, until they called the parents of the very one who had received his sight, 19 and questioned them, saying, “Is this your son, who you say was born blind? Then how does he now see?” 20 His parents answered them and said, “We know that this is our son, and that he was born blind; 21 but how he now sees, we do not know; or who opened his eyes, we do not know. Ask him; he is of age, he will speak for himself.” 22 His parents said this because they were afraid of the Jews; for the Jews had already agreed that if anyone confessed Him to be Christ, he was to be put out of the synagogue. 23 For this reason his parents said, “He is of age; ask him.”

24 So a second time they called the man who had been blind, and said to him, “Give glory to God; we know that this man is a sinner.” 25 He then answered, “Whether He is a sinner, I do not know; one thing I do know, that though I was blind, now I see.” 26 So they said to him, “What did He do to you? How did He open your eyes?” 27 He answered them, “I told you already and you did notlisten; why do you want to hear it again? You do not want to become His disciples too, do you?”28 They reviled him and said, “You are His disciple, but we are disciples of Moses. 29 We know that God has spoken to Moses, but as for this man, we do not know where He is from.” 30 The man answered and said to them, “Well, here is an amazing thing, that you do not know where He is from, and yet He opened my eyes. 31 We know that God does not hear sinners; but if anyone is God-fearing and does His will, He hears him. 32 Since the beginning of time it has never been heard that anyone opened the eyes of a person born blind. 33 If this man were not from God, He could do nothing.” 34 They answered him, “You were born entirely in sins, and are you teaching us?” So they put him out.

A Deaf Man 2-10-09

When I was just a little boy,
playing with my favorite toy,
so bored with all the waiting rooms,
grownups in their white costumes,

my parents sitting in their chairs,
me on the floor, I had no cares.
I heard some grunts and turned around,
and saw a deaf man making sound.

Our eyes had met. I was bemused.
He seemed quite different - me confused.
Why I stared, my thinking slow -
his funny hat? I do not know.

As he walked closer (me afraid),
I then ignored him as I played.
And so afraid of the unknown,
I held my space to be alone.

Then as I felt a sudden tap -
fear dropped that toy right in my lap.
I was stunned from head to toes,
and every muscle in me froze.

Something happened after that,
as he knelt down and there we sat.
We played and talked a little while -
he seemed so very versatile.

If I was deaf, I would be sad,
but he seemed happy, not so bad.
He had no fear. He shed no tear.
In fact, he grinned from ear to ear.

To talk to him (if I would choose)
he showed me language I could use.
Sign language later, I was told.
It was special, it was gold.

Also special - somewhat odd,
is the language heard from God.
After all, who'd know the cost -
without two wooden timbers crossed?

Love and grace are not mere words.
Our faith was not meant "for the birds".
It took a man who couldn't hear
to help me see this very clear.

Him I miss - his funny hat.
I never saw him after that.
Precious memories from the Lord,
remembering well, that cancer ward.

---

Sounds from nature, sounds from man,
sounds from God - He knows we can.
Sounds of thunder, sounds of loss,
sounds from Jesus on the cross....

If we can hear without our ears,
God will conquer all our fears.
Listen close, it is a plus.
God hates sin - but hates, not us.

If we have heard and understood,
we know the cross was more than wood.
When all is said and all is done,
we too, can hear God's only Son.

Just listen....

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

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Slave Loyalty 2-7-09

The best slave in the world,

is the one who doesn't know he's a slave.

He's one who will do all he is told,

and for his master will always behave.

When his master offers greater rewards,

he is right there ready and willing to serve -

obedient every waking minute -

and proves to his master - he has nerve.

And so it's been for thousands of years,

best slaves have been obedient and gave.

Sin is the master who goes unseen -

best slaves oblivious, to their grave....

The best slave in the world,

is the one who doesn't know he's a slave.

He's one who will do all he is told,

and for his master, will always behave.

Never be a slave to sin.
Never be a slave to man.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Time 2-4-09

Time is elusive.

God made it that way.

Because man's abusive,

man must pass away.

If man lived forever,

would Caesar still bring -

a power so clever

that he'd still be king?

We need to take pause -

look truth in the eye.

Sin is the cause,

and we know that's why.

God has a purpose

for both you and I.

We might make a fuss,

but we will soon die.

Time is elusive

but stands in our way.

Because sin's abusive,

man will pass away.

Truth's hard to swallow.

Life can be brutal.

But if God we follow -

life won't be futile.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)

 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

Mustard Seed Christian 2-2-09

For God so loved the world, why?
-merely so His Son could die?
What did the serpent represent?
And why to earth was Jesus sent?
Heads [for years] theologians spun,
convincing Christians they had won,
so easy thoughts we now regard -
where grace is free - and faith, not hard.

Dividing Christians from the rest,
should God give us a 'free-will' test?
For faith is what God's looking for,
as saving grace He has out-poured.
Does He choose the ones to bury,
and the faith that others carry -
or does He choose the faithful son,
whose life is still a fruitful one?

For son, daughter, mother, father -
an everlasting spring of water.
While no one falls away from grace,
faith is something some replace.
Though none are taken from His hand,
we cannot build on sinking sand.
We want our drive-ups and fast food -
salvation likewise, we include.

Many will hear (as they forgot);
"Depart from me, I knew you not."
And that's why many will be lost...
they [know not love] at any cost.
Though "ye, of little faith" we hear,
many shun it year to year.
If, to the world, we embrace -
there is no faith and is no grace.

Love and service is in our hands,
if we hold faith, heed His commands.
Love is service, faith grows fruit.
A mustard seed must grow its root.
A mustard seed has water needs -
but water needs no mustard seeds.
If grace is water, faith can root,
so follow Christ and produce fruit.

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

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Just how serious are Christians today?
Be a Mustard Seed Christian.

Gen. 3:6
John 3:16
Matt. 7:23
Matt. 7:26 

Endure 2-1-09

If I can't endure ridicule,
if I can't endure humility,
if I can't endure some yelling -
then how can God endure me?

If I can't endure a doctor,
if I can't endure a sore knee,
if I can't endure the waiting,
then how can God endure me?

If I can't endure my neighbor,
if I can't endure family,
if I can't endure disturbance -
then how can God endure me?

If I can't endure the messes,
if I can't endure some debris,
if I can't endure depression -
then how can God endure me?

If I can't endure a mistake,
if I can't endure stormy sea,
if I can't endure some failure -
then how can God endure me?

If I can't endure the taxing,
if I can't endure the degree,
if I can't endure government -
then how can God endure me?

If I can't endure employment,
if I can't endure my boss -
then how can I endure God's way,
and take up my own cross?

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

Matthew 10:22 (NASB) "You will be hated by all because of My name, but it is the one who has endured to the end who will be saved."

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A Rainbow Life 1-29-09

No matter how earth's breezes blow,

just seek the promise - God's rainbow.

For Noah's faith was always pure,

never failing - always sure.

A rainbow I can see, not touch

but does it really matter much?

God holds it fast, as He holds me.

Bright colors of His rainbow see.

If close, God's armor we do wear.

This world can't fill us with despair.

No, never be a doubting 'Thomas'

but stand fast in Jesus' promise.

God parts the dark clouds of man's sin,

and brings full light of life within.

When I am touched with Spirit's winds.

God sunshine melts dark clouds of sins.

Before God's spectrum kisses ground,

I know His promise will be found.

I gaze, awed at His universe.

Sing praises, I, each word and verse.

If joy is brushed with indigo,

patience pink and peace yellow,

if kindness orange and goodness gold,

then all good fruit of His I'll hold.

If grace is blue and love is white,

and prayer is green and God is light,

the world's sin won't overwhelm,

for I'm in Him - another realm.

If life's a footrace, death blood red,

then Christ's bright rainbow lies ahead.

If we are raised from sin and strife,

then God gives us, a rainbow life.

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org

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Complaints Heard Here 1-27-09

We get so excited with weddings and births,
or other great things which are part of the earth's -
like parties and joking, and all of the sports,
hobbies, vacations and games of all sorts.

But then when our lives take a turn for the worse,
with unfair disasters which carry a curse,
we'll complain when things don't go our way -

and our chance will come. We're one heartbeat away.

I wonder if God hears a thanks or a grumble,
whenever our hearts are a little less humble?
Will all our complaining spill over the brim,
when soon we'll be standing - in front of Him?

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

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Dust To Dust 1-26-09

From the ground with dust, formed man.
Oh, this world that God began.
He had only asked for 'trust'.
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

And of the fruit, creation ate -
so plowed he fields, outside the gate.
Was from the garden thrown, unjust?
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

Man confused, but thought so great -
so man, an idol did create -
which then decayed in rot and rust.
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

So ascertain his final fate -
for man still thinks at this late date,
that knowledge proves he's so robust.
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

The clock keeps ticking - marches on.
It's certain who we call upon.
Into the future we are thrust -
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

Close it now, the vast division,
God or self, it's your decision.
Life moves swiftly, dawn to dusk.
Ashes to ashes, dust to dust.

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

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Hebrews 9:27 (KJV) And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

Another Shoe 1-23-09

Perfectly balanced as when it begun,
God's earth rotates around His sun -
so empty the pride, of yours, each shoe -
if you think this world revolves around you.

Now find any pair - which ever you choose -
and slip yourself in - another's shoes.
You'll soon realize, while walking in stride,
they're much too large and a bit too wide.

Professors, plumbers, doctors, police,
firemen, authors, teachers and priests -
don't ever assume you can't be replaced,
for your life on earth will soon be erased.

God made us different for very good reason,
so whatever the weather, whatever the season,
we're all on this earth here - bound with a tether,
so strip away pride and start working together.

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

Matthew 24:10 (NASB) At that time many will fall away and will betray one another and hate one another.

Talk Is Cheap 1-20-09

When words are empty, talk is cheap.
when words are parsed, talk is cheap.
when gossip travels like a missile, talk is cheap.
when the ends justify the means, talk is cheap.
when eyes expose an angered heart, talk is cheap.
when half-truths build as a skyscraper, talk is cheap.
when manure is spread upon the heap, talk is cheap.
when rationalizing trumps the rational, talk is cheap.
when an agenda overrides the purpose, talk is cheap.
when tongues repeat the hollow points, talk is cheap.
when innuendo paints the masterpiece, talk is cheap.
when the snake oil slips along the slime, talk is cheap.
when truth is obvious between the lines, talk is cheap.
when words invest for a return on flattery, talk is cheap.
when words are used for self preservation, talk is cheap.
when words are spit out with forked tongue, talk is cheap.
when words become more colorful than a rainbow, talk is cheap.
when words are tailored like a thousand dollar suit, talk is cheap.
when ten dollar words are used on a two-cent thought, talk is cheap.
and when money is the purpose behind the words, talk is worthless.

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

Psalm 78: (NASB)
35And they remembered that God was their rock,
And the Most High God their Redeemer.
36But they deceived Him with their mouth
And lied to Him with their tongue.
37For their heart was not steadfast toward Him,
Nor were they faithful in His covenant.

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If I Were God.... 1-19-2009

Bad things happen every day,

on waves and solid sod -

This world is in such disarray -

but not if I were God.

People fall off mountains -

People fall in ditches -

People fall for anything -

but not if I were God.

People will get greedy -

People will get sad -

People will get lonely -

but not if I were God.

People get diseases -

People get depressed.

People get so bothered -

but not if I were God.

People hurt so often -

People hurt so much -

People hurt each other -

but not if I were God.

No, if I were God,

there'd be no mountains.

there'd be no valleys,

lakes or drinking fountains.

No one would fall off of,

fall into, or drown.

No, if I were God,

you'd never, ever frown.

If I were God,

there'd be 'garden of Eden',

all would be happy,

with nobody leavin'.

If I were God,

you could do what you please,

there wouldn't be plagues,

locusts or fleas.

Yes, if I were God,

you'd sing la-la-la,

because I'd create

utopia.

Don't worry that you'd never be challenged.

Don't worry that you'd get a bit bored.

Don't worry that you'd be a robot -

with brains as dense as a board.

So did God have other intentions?

Does 'free will' mean much at all?

Did Jesus give us a challenge?

And are we to answer His call?

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Matthew 9:37 (KJV)

Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few;

Focused Failures 1-18-09

Many will focus on money,
many will focus on fame,
many will focus on friendships,
many will focus on name.

Many will focus on family,
many will focus on courts,
many will focus on children,
many will focus on sports.

Some will focus on parties,
some will focus on news,
some will focus on women,
some will focus on booze.

Some will focus on travel,
some will focus on jets,
some will focus on sunshine,
some will focus on pets.

Few will focus on Jesus,
few will know of His grace,
few will know of His mercy,
few will look on His face.

Few will know of our Savior,
few will know of His love,
few will know of His service, and
few will see Him above.

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

Matthew 11: (NASB)
28"Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest.
29"Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS.

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One Hundred Years From Now 1-17-09

Some are massive. Some are smart,
but every one shall soon depart.
All animals - both great and small,
will someday hear God's final call.

And even through their graceful motion
near the bottom of the ocean;
no matter what they could become,
all ocean fish will too, succumb.

While birds can soar above the rest,
they also take their final test.
Though they fly to their highest high -
they will also, surely die.

No matter where, what, why, or how,
Just one hundred years from now;
no matter if we've so persisted -
few will know that we existed.

So why go through our futile notions
exercising fruitless motions;
collecting things we cannot keep,
until we all fall fast asleep?

Sinners want to impress people
outside of the church and steeple.
But soon our chances will be past.
Only what's done for Christ will last.

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

Hebrews 9: 27 (KJ) And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:

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Where Are You God? 1-17-09

Early mornings, I talk to You.
I pray until the sky is blue.
Faithfully I do my chores -
for You are mine and I am Yours.

I read the Bible, every verse -
but yet the world grows worse and worse.
So where's the bounty? Where's the fruit?
Did You get lost along our route?

Tell me now - where are you God?
You should be here. This is quite odd.
Do You just sit there on Your throne,
and leave me down here all alone?

A mustard seed - my faith exceeds.
I live a Godly life indeed.
I pour out Christian love each day -
spreading seed along my way.

So tell me why You're way up there.
and leave me here in such despair?
Please tell me, why are we apart?
Could I have followed my own heart?

Could it be, I followed me -
I never listened, couldn't see?
Yes, maybe I had took a turn,
because I didn't want to learn...

You are there and I am here.
Now I shall follow and not fear.
Early mornings, I'll hear You -
so guide me Lord, and lead me through.

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

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Psalm 23: (KJ)
1The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
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GOD and MAN 1-14-09

(one mustard seed)

---

God creates
while man destroys.
God sustains
while man enjoys.

God forgives
while man awaits.
God is love
while man still hates.

God is peace.
Man is brutal.
God is life.
Man's is futile.

---

God returned,
Eden entered
knowing man be-
came self-centered.

Yet God loved,
He offered grace,
and put His Son
in our due place.

Heaven is
our Lord's reply -
so can we truly,
humbly cry?

---

Or has my past
became so scarred,
that my own heart
became too hard?

And has my faith
become a weed,
that I can't see
the mustard seed?

It's up to me
to be Christ-like,
when faith endures
another spike.

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

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John 14 (KJ)
1 Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.
2 In my Father's house are many mansions:
if it were not so, I would have told you.
I go to prepare a place for you.
3 And if I go and prepare a place for you,
I will come again, and receive you unto myself;
that where I am, there ye may be also.
4 And whither I go ye know, and the way ye know.
5 Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou goest;
and how can we know the way?
6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life:
no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

Resolution Failure 1-1-09

.
Another day, another prey.
Another year, another beer.

Just a habit, you can't quit.
You can't forget the cigarette.

One tells lies. Another buys,
another dies, another cries.

Some will scramble - start to gamble.
Then will sweat, another bet.

Where's disaster? Where's the master?
When found, the grave - you find the slave....

©2009 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
ganderpoems.org

Isaiah 24:17 (NIV)
Terror and pit and snare await you, O people of the earth.

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Gifts 12-28-08

Gifts surround my Christmas tree
from all the ones I love -
but none surpass the perfect gift
of Jesus up above.

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

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John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He sent His only..."

That Empty Rocker 12-27-08

Pull up that empty rocker - and spill your problems Dear.
I may have no solutions but my memory is clear.

No one can steal the memories - the memories I know -
of pine trees holding branches up - though drooping under snow.

There's only good in cold lakes if we're the frozen duck -
and that's how we find blessings - when we are down in luck.

No. Nothing's ever perfect - and we're not always glad,
unless we see the blessings - in both the good and bad.

We slide down every hillside - with chilly hands and toes -
but sunshine on our faces - should be how sledding goes.

I was told to "stick it out". It is what I was taught.
Yes, he and I were loving - despite what others thought.

Oh, often there were trying times - priorities to sort -
and working close together, our tempers could run short.

It took some perseverance when I was "up to bat",
but giving up comes easy - and many do just that.

Unlike many moms and dads, we always stuck together,
but Christmas time was special in any kind of "weather".

My gifts were quite abundant under every Christmas tree -
but what I lacked in substance I could hold in memory.

He wasn't always thoughtful, at Christmas year to year -
but he was my tremendous gift, as he was always here.

I know your troubled marriage. I sense it's no more fun -
but notice all my gifts are here - all my gifts but one.

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Family Christmas 12-17-08

Aside from better and the worse,
aside from workers so perverse,
aside from friends who are diverse,
time with those I most converse,
is family.

Aside from jokes on my behalf,
aside from every quip or gaffe,
aside from the whole office staff,
time with those I'd rather laugh,
is family.

Aside from worldly wisdom's trend,
aside from strangers I befriend,
aside from those I can depend,
time with those I'd rather spend,
is family.

Aside from all the lights I see,
aside from all the joy and glee,
aside from any Christmas tree,
the all important thing to me,
is family.

©2008 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Christmas 12-16-08

.
Christmas is a time to care,
A time to love with gifts to share.
Lift your voice, sing carols out -
for that's what Christmas is about.

©2008 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
www.ganderpoems.org

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Lights Of Christmas 12-16-08

.
With people running to and fro
Christmas time would come and go.
All in smiles, in sunshine grow -
but I, in blackness, could not glow.

Inside living differently,
sorting through my mess -
yet nothing changed inside of me
Confused I lived in darkness.

Christmas days - I'd learn to cope,
I'd live through each quite aimless.
But this time though - a speck of hope,
pierced right through my darkness.

This Christmas night - a manger scene,
was lit under the blackness.
I saw it no more as routine -
as something pierced my darkness.

A simple manger in the night
that only God could bless.
And just that little speck of light
pierced right through my darkness.

That night a star - shone up above,
so bright the night could not suppress.
And that was when - a speck of love
pierced right through my darkness.

I saw that day - a baby boy,
Surrounded by all humbleness.
And then I knew - a speck of joy
pierced right through my darkness.

As I felt my sorrows cease,
and knelt there to confess,
was then I felt - a speck of peace
pierced right through my darkness.

I heard behind me snickering
I felt the chilly breeze.
but it was there I saw the light
while praying on my knees.

That blackness in me fell apart.
I knew there at that stable,
a light had pierced my buried heart.
I glow - for He is able.

©2008 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
www.ganderpoems.org

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Humble Child 12-15-08

.
Dreams, a wish, a want and cloud,
I chased a rainbow all allowed....
I saw futility.

Career, work, a job and more,
opportunities, times, an open door....
I grasped futility!

I entered life I could not shut -
in filth and mud - then in a rut....
I wore futility!

I scaled the ladder - oh, so high -
the lights below I couldn't buy....
I lived futility!

In total darkness, there I was -
you asked me "why"? I said "because"....
In full futility!

Then humbled there, I saw a child,
as I looked down, He saw I smiled....
- and then He set me free.

©2008 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
www.ganderpoems.org

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The Pain Of Sin 12-14-08

.
It has started every war.
Don't believe, and see what is in store.
It deceives. It’s rotten to the core.
Sin's killed millions – hundreds of millions -
and it will kill millions more.

Have you ever cried and screamed out loud - to stop man's ugly riot?
Someone lies to everyone. Despite all efforts, you can't forget.
Have you had nightmares, where you're in pain, and break out in a sweat?
Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night - when it is all but quiet?

Have you ever cried and screamed out loud - but no one hears a peep?
Someone wrongs you, no one hears - as pain hits bottoms' deep.
Have you had nightmares, where you're in pain, but have no tears to weep?
Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night - and can't go back to sleep?

Have you ever cried and screamed out loud? You've heard the same old song.
Someone hurts a lot of folk. You could see it all along....
Have you had nightmares, where you're in pain, though you have done no wrong?
Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night - and knew you don't belong?

Have you ever cried and screamed out loud - and yelled, "I told you so!"
but it doesn't do a bit of good - as you hear their hot air blow?
Have you had nightmares, where you're in pain, because of "quid pro quo"?
Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night – and sometimes yell out "NO!"?

Have you ever cried and screamed out loud - but it's all inside your head?
Someone kills a lot of folk - and you can see them dead?
Have you had nightmares - where you're in pain? Could it be you instead?
Do you ever wake up in the middle of the night - as you see it ahead....?

It has started every war.
Don't believe, and see what is in store.
It deceives. It’s rotten to the core.
Sin's killed millions – hundreds of millions -
and it will kill millions more.

©2008 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
www.ganderpoems.org
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Where Is The Greater Love? 12-14-08

.
Where is the greater love?

when someone hugs another,
when a wee one hugs her mother,
when strangers hug each other?

Where is the greater love?

when a king respects his base,
when two enemies embrace,
when a smile grows on a face?

Where is the greater love?

in those who haven't any clue,
in those who cannot follow through,
in forgiving those who know not what they do?

Where is the greater love?

when truth is now uncovered,
when a babe is soon discovered,
when sacrifice is finally covered?

Where is the greater love?

when one forfeits his very gun,
when presents are for merely fun,
when God gave us His only Son?

Where is the greater love?

©2008 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
www.ganderpoems.org/

Luke 23:34 "Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do."
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Shattered Glass 11-24-08

A gold fish swam inside the bowl.
It's tail fin made the water stir -
against the glass. It peered beyond
but it could swim no further.

I reached out too - but couldn't through.
That invisible glass prevented me -
but living in our little worlds
just isn't meant to be.

We have our eyes but what deceives?
For everything will come to pass -
this side of the present tense,
and out beyond the solid glass.

Sins law, like glass, invisible.
It's nothing but a deadly lie.
I reached but couldn't feel His touch.
It held between my God and I.

For I was deep in waters sin,
within there is no air.
There is no grace inside the law -
and faith cannot live there.

But then one night some time ago,
in quietness, the world heard -
a star shone bright above a babe.
Something big on earth occurred.

Reputed, He, our wisdom there.
His death on earth did pass,
but heard before that quiet night -
the shout that shattered glass....

Yes, "Abba, Father" shattered it.
Sin's law shattered everywhere -
forgotten, forgiven, gone.
Grace unlocked us from despair.

Hope washed us ever closer then.
Free from circling without breath,
free from sinful bondage where,
the wages of sin is death.

Some day we'll occupy our graves -
yet sin no longer holds us slaves.
The glass is broken. Make no waves -
just tell the world that Jesus saves!

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Romans 6:23 (KJV) For the wages of sin is death;
but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Armor's Yoke 11-22-08

.
(Ephesians 6)

I STAND FIRM in
the armor of God. (vs. 13)
and in gospel's PEACE
my feet are shod. (vs. 15)

I STAND FIRM -
will not transgress. (vs. 14)
Wearing my breastplate
of RIGHTEOUSNESS, (vs. 14)

From each crevasse
in the world, (vs. 16)
fly flaming arrows
at me - hurled. (vs. 16)

I'm not slack
and will not yield - (vs. 16)
but raise up high
my FAITH, my shield. (vs. 16)

And with the belt
of TRUTH I'm gird. (vs. 14)
I seize the sword
which is His WORD. (vs. 17)

Darkness, wickedness -
I'll not allow. (vs. 12)
SALVATION'S helmet,
I take now. (vs. 17)

If perseverance
stays alert, (vs. 18)
I'll Pray and fast,
and won't get hurt. (vs. 18)

When I believe
and do what's right,
His Yoke is easy,
His burden, light. (Matt. 11:30)

©2008 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
www.ganderpoems.org

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Wheelbarrow Christian 11-20-08

I pulled you hard from deep within,
from a trash heap dead in sin.
From your true and certain peril -
I lifted you - a wheelbarrow.

You long outlasted rusty peers
and persevered for many years.
Diligent, you worked all day -
never asked an ounce of pay.

Your tire worn - you didn't care.
At times you'd need a little air.
Your wooden sides were warped and bowed
but never once, refused a load.

Working streets or fields of clover
you, at times, would tip right over.
Though humbled there, one might expect,
you hadn't any disrespect.

So willing you, without excuse -
would faithful take all sins abuse.
Whether weeds or rocks contained,
you never, ever once complained.

And burdened down with dirt or stone,
you never once had worked alone -
for I was there - I pushed a bit,
because I knew you'd never quit.

I gave you every push and shove -
but did it all in Godly love.
Yes, you surpassed the near and far,
and you, my faithful servant are.

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org//

2 Peter 1:4-8 (NASB)
4 For by these He has granted to us His precious and magnificent promises, so that by them you may become partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world by lust.

5 Now for this very reason also, applying all diligence, in your faith supply moral excellence, and in your moral excellence, knowledge,

6 and in your knowledge, self-control, and in your self-control, perseverance, and in your perseverance, godliness,

7 and in your godliness, brotherly kindness, and in your brotherly kindness, love.

8 For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.

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Think About It.... 11-19-08

.

There's a fork in the road.

I'm looking for a new career.

I choose one or the other,

Now where do I go from here?

There's a rock in my path.

I must make it clear.

I work hard to roll it off,

Now where do I go from here?

There's brush on the trail.

I really must persevere.

I work a lot to clear it,

Now where do I go from here?

Troubles are a way of life

and never disappear.

I've tried to fix all my troubles,

Now where do I go from here?

When I am on my deathbed,

and life is in the rear.

What do I look forward to,

And where do I go from here?

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Hebrews 9:27 (KJV)

 And as it is appointed unto men once to die,

but after this the judgment:

That Trampled Rose 11-18-08

I so remember long ago

a Fair had came to town.

People talked for many weeks

and came from miles around.

Now there were several contests.

Two roses were compared.

It seemed like only yesterday

the way the people stared....

A mass of people circled.

Around the roses, stood.

But sitting in my wheelchair,

I couldn't see too good.

One received the highest prize,

the other one was tossed -

as people cheered the winner and,

ignored the one that lost.

Now for the rose that lost its case,

the judge just cast aside.

It then was trampled under feet.

Its owner nearly cried.

The winning rose was held up high

for all the world to see.

The people crammed around it close,

and oh, they did agree.

For better look, the crowd in back

stood high on their tiptoes.

They shifted 'round for greater view,

and trampled on that rose.

Then finally, a little boy

'bout three for four years old,

picked that trampled flower up

and gave to me to hold.

It's stem was crushed quite thoroughly.

It wasn't very long -

now hardly recognizable

with most it's petals gone.

I wanted nothing of it -

to see the other rose!

But I sat in my wheelchair.

That's how this story goes.

The boy stood right beside me.

He thought he'd done me good.

He never said a single word -

he just misunderstood.

There on my lap it laid until

I got back to my room.

I tossed it in the trash can as -

it would not ever bloom.

But then a few days later,

the County Fair had passed;

when all excitement dwindled,

when people left at last...

I unburied that dead rose,

and pressed it in a book.

Now when I'm most discouraged,

I take another look.

Pressed deep within the pages

of Psalms One-hundred-three;

I often think of that small boy -

the love he showed to me.

The winning rose has long since passed

and gone, its worldly shine.

Though others long for other things,

that trampled rose is mine.

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Psalm 103 (NASB)
Praise for the LORD'S Mercies.
A Psalm of David.
1"Bless the LORD, O my soul,
And all that is within me, bless His holy name."

BEWARE 11-15-08

.
Walk the straight and narrow. (Matt. 7:14)
God protects the sparrow, (Matt. 10:31)
BEWARE! Don't tread on streets of dung.

A wise man is prudent. (Prov. 16:21)
The foolish - ignorant. (Psalm 73:22)
BEWARE of sin, the foolish young.

Do not betray the truth. (Mark 14:11)
better now a broken tooth. (Prov. 25:19)
BEWARE of promise - Judas hung.

Do not be deceived. (Jeremiah 9:5)
Can truth be retrieved? (Matt. 24:43)
BEWARE of sweetness when lies are sung.

Watch for the blitz (Mark 15:13)
from all hypocrites. (Matt. 22:18)
BEWARE - hot air from anyone's lung.

Whether from man, (Luke 2:1)
or the great satan; (Gen. 3:4)
BEWARE of the one with the silver tongue.

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
ganderpoems.org

Genesis 3:4 (KJV)
"And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:"

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UNWANTED 11-13-08

Why do some complain so much, when they've so much to gain;

and others weep so bitterly? I think they're all insane.

I would have smelled the roses, ignored those thorny stems;

and gladly traded places, with anyone of them.

I wasn't ever wanted, by mother or by dad;

and not to even have a right to live - was really sad.

Birth certificate? Oh no - for I got all the blame;

and I was too unwanted - to even get a name.

Tossed into a trash can - was found among the muck;

survived that botched abortion. Some would call that "luck".

Yes, an angel found me, washed me with her tears;

wrapped me in a towel, soothed my many fears.

Rocking very patiently, she knew what was in store;

but hugged me tightly in her arms, for she could do no more.

Many rights protect us, from beatings and abuse;

but "life" just doesn't matter now, if one decides to choose.

I had no right to ask for help - even if I could.

She had to let me fade away - for no one understood.

Rights are very twisted things, Some get them. I did not;

so go about your duties now, for I am best forgot.

Why do some complain so much? Let's make this very plain.

It all comes down to money - when wisdom's down the drain.

Now I'm held in Jesus' arms, within His warm embrace;

"Lord please, for this kind angel, reserve a special place...."

"a special place right next to me, to cry and hug again.

where we can share eternity, together, please. Amen." 

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

-------- 

True story from Oak Lawn, IL on a failed abortion (1999).  The child was left for dead but lived for 45 minutes.  A nurse (Jill Stanek) held the child until his last breath.  No medical help was attempted and none permitted.  The nurse was fired (2001).  We called ourselves 'civilized'...

http://www.bornalivetruth.org/jillstory.php 

Matt: 25:40 (KJV)

And the King shall answer and say unto them, "Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me."

Now That's Christmas!! 11-10-08

.

Sending the gifts to place under the tree -
or

sending His Son - in place of me?

Presents all wrapped under colorful bows -
or

a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes?

Watching a tree, its flashing star -
or

watching three wise men come from afar?

Seeing a horse pull a grand open sleigh -
or

seeing a babe fast asleep on the hay?

Knowing that children are still waking up -
or

knowing that Jesus must drink from the cup?

Children all screaming at presents galore -
or

people all screaming, their anger outpour?

Children who struggled with patient surprise -
or

Jesus who struggled with tears in His eyes?

Proof there was chocolate I got with a whiff -
or

proof that God loves us with His special Gift?

Gifts from our mother and father we love -
or

gifts of blessings from our Father above?

Sharing the truth with each, one another -
or

sharing Jesus to our sister and brother?

A warm embrace -
or

His matchless grace?

Giving -
or

forgiving?

Now that's Christmas!
The greatest gift!

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Mother 11-8-08

If a picture's worth a thousand words,
each word, a pound of letters -
then mother tops the sunsets
and pounds of gold from debtors.

Mere words describe so many things,
each one beside another -
and words explain those many things
but can't describe my mother.

A million smiles can't match her worth.
She carries loving scars.
Her gifts surpass bright rainbows' arcs.
Her worth exceeds the stars.

My mother's very special and
the only one I'll get -
and I'm the one she could afford.
I love her quite a bit.

So what explains my mother now?
What in my vast report?
And what describes my mother when
my many words fall short?

We shared so many memories,
our hearts shared many years -
so what describes my mother is -
the love within my tears...

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Proverbs 31:(KJV)
10"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
16She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.
21She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
26She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised."

World's Apart 11-8-08

EVERY DAY, God shows us our imperfection -
by giving us an imperfect world.

Men with pride, and a world of governments.
Men with deception, and a world of ways to fall off high mountains.
Men with anger, and a world of volcano's.
Men with tempers, and a world of earthquakes.
Men with confusion, and a world of thick, dark rain forests.
Men with hate, and a world of hurricanes and tornado's.
Men with lust, and a world of deserts.
Men with greed, and a world of floods.
Men who are wild, and a world of wild animals.
Men who get drunk, and a world of waters for drowning.

Yes, EVERY DAY, God shows us our imperfection -
by giving us an imperfect world.
However.... INSIDE this imperfect world is yet another world -
of perfection and of beauty and of miracles.

The perfection of an atom.
-of a dry seed planted.
-of the balance of the heavens.

The beauty of a rose.
-of a hummingbird.
-of a sunset.

The miracle of life.
-of healing.
-of the cross.

Only God creates.
Only God heals.
Only God can.

Yes, INSIDE this imperfect world is yet another world -
of perfection and of beauty and of miracles.

Isn't God showing us something?
Do we have eyes?
Isn't God telling us something?
Do we have ears?
Hasn't God proved something?
Do we really know?

Imperfection to show perfection.
Imperfection to understand perfection.
Imperfection to prove perfection.

Can we see the picture here?
Do we hear the message?
Will we ever understand?

Imperfection to perfection.
Outer flesh to the inner heart.
By grace through faith.

Man blames God - but God is Love.
Man sends big earth movers - but God sent Jesus.
Man yearns - but God holds.

The outside world of flesh - to the "heart" of perfection.
Hell and damnation - to everlasting life....
World's Apart.

©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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