–
Standing firm
Giving hope and encouragement
Caring and true
Unswayed by those of ill intent
Loyal faithful
Never abandoning you
Reliable dependable
Upholding goodness and truth
Determined and steady
Speaking up for the oppressed
Working and willing
Steadfast
To give our mite
Generous in all sincerity
Whatever that may be
Life’s greatest joy
Love’s cherished gift
Guarding things closely
Greed or fright overrule us
Do we cling distressed
Comparing uncertain? …
Shall we consider our offering?
What we have to give
Is unique to each one
Greater than wealth can buy
What good do we crave?
Now give of it freely!
Just look around you and offer.
A smile a touch a friendly word
Says you’re valued and not alone
A penny a need a lift a deed
Given with humble helping hands
Times of plenty and great celebration
Or a world of chaos loss or suffering
Making days brighter lifting spirits higher
Let’s give our mite to show we care
… and make an offering
A comfortable chair beside a fire
A jacket drawn tightly against day’s chill
The smiles bestowed on gloomy days
Sun-soaked sand upon bare feet
Soft fur of pets beneath chilled fingers
A baby cradled in one’s arms
Bright rays shining through window panes
Snuggled beneath covers on a winter day
A friendly touch and welcoming greeting
Hot cup of drink held between our hands
Homemade soup to sip and savor
Thoughts and remembrances bring to mind
Warm arms and warm hearts to warm one’s soul
Ah, blessed warmth inside and out
Standing at the threshold
What lies ahead
Sunlight gleams
Pointing the way
Pausing attuned
Listen to silence
Or the singing of birds
Peaceful and warm
Drawing breath deeply
Fragrances from life
Bring back memories
Poignant or comforting
Searching eyes seeking
Cool shadowed woodland
Bright lawns or gardens
Faces and homes
Reaching out a hand
Taking the first step
New year’s dawn brings
Anticipation and prayers
The journey was long
And the way was hard
Over steep rocky places
And mountainous trails
… Now he’s here!
Tired out and hungry
We patiently went
Trying not to be anxious
Though thirsty and hot
… He’s here!
In uncertain times
Will there be a home
What about my loved ones
How will we survive
… But he’s here!
Missing my family
So far far away
How I long to be near them
And share the good news
… That he’s here!
Home safe and sheltered
Though not what I thought
Only a few visitors
To brighten the hours
… And welcome him here!
Look to the future
One day at a time
Be strong there’s tomorrow
Hear Mary’s good news
… for Jesus is here!
What’s that I hear
Loudly scolding “intruder intruder”
Leaping now up grand oak tree
Peering out from high above
An interruption of day’s work
Those wily robbers of bird feeders
And gatherers of nature’s bounty
Ready against winter’s chill
With flip of bushy tail
Now return to busy preparation
Planting storing, hop and poke
Now where did I leave that
Home sweet home in arching bowers
A comfy den or nest just right
To snugly curl within
Awaiting spring’s first touch
Restful quiet
When exhaustion looms
Comfort and calm
And blessed to relax
Help and strength
So much appreciated
Release of stress
Let go anxiety
Welcome peace
Amidst changes and challenges
Calm assurance
And seeking patience
Grant contentment
When all is done
That light may enter
And joy possess
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
Another journey has begun.
We will be companions
As we tread a common path
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
Staying by your side
And when the way grows rough and steep
My helping hand is there
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
Together whatever befalls
Sharing hope or wiping tears
Laughing living praying going
Walk this way. I’ll lead you.
The Lord your banner
Brown soil
Deep roots
Drifting clouds
Growing fields
Warm breezes
Flowing waters
Food and drink
Nourish all
Times rhythms
Rising waning
Warmth and sun
Cool night sky
Heaven’s lights
Called by name
Gathered closely
God sustains us
Soft rain
Water quench
Cool breeze
Air alert
Welcome meal
Taste nourish
Warm bath
Cleanse wash
Cool splash
Face sooth
Quiet rest
Sleep relax
Ended work
Satisfaction complete
Favorite music
Thoughts encourage
Heart stilled
Prayer listen
Refreshed
