|
TRIBUTE TO A FRIEND
In September of 2007 a close friend
passed away after a long battle with
illness. Despite this type of loss,
comfort comes with the awareness that
the person is no longer in physical
or emotional pain, which finally brings
peace and closure to the issue. Jo is
with the Lord.
She always wanted to do something
great for God, but her physical
limitations frustrated that dream.
However, her cheerfulness and
tremendous talent and sensitivity
were her great gifts from God, and
those type of gifts have a way of
continuing to give even after the
individual has passed on to glory.
One of her goals had been to prepare
some of her writing for the internet.
Lack of time and physical strength
prevented that from happening, a tragic
loss, but I do have one poem of hers to
share here as a tribute to her life, her
compassion, and her desire to tell others
about the Lord.
I miss the laughs Jo, but I know you're
so very happy now. Save a seat for me
in the heavenly choir.
|
DON'T HURT THE OIL
Oil lamps have lost their use,
We've come so far...
We've built a city to the heavens,
We found a way to light the night
Driving in our fancy cars,
And the only oil we need
Is every 3000 miles.
We're good to go
Through rain or snow,
Back and forth to work
Reaching for the stars.
Our only focus is what we gain
While saving some time
To keep us sane,
But not enough to give away.
So much oil left unused
And hoarded by a few
Passed around on Holy ground
When the plate is passed by too.
Don't hurt the oil I once read
And I wondered what it meant.
I'd seen hurting mobs packed
In stadiums hoping for a touch,
The praise was loud,
The tears were real,
The claps were begging God to hear
And take away their pain.
Yet many leave exhausted
After working up their faith
And tomorrow comes again
And nothing seems to change.
I haven't lost my faith in God,
I know He's very real--
I've lost my trust in institutions
Used to house God's zeal.
I wonder? When the oil comes
To fill these empty vessels--
The louder the music
Or more beautiful the song
Can't be the only way
That the Spirit comes along.
I know He comes at quiet times
When no one is around.
I think I'll go and wait for Him,
I'll find some Holy ground.
There won't be loud songs to sing,
Or dancing or shouting hallelujah.
I just want some quiet time
Just to get to know You.
Maybe I can get a little
Of that oil I heard spoke in part,
Not for my car or furnace,
But for my hurting heart.
Sharing this oil with others
Would bring great joy to me,
Since Jesus bought me with His life,
And His gift to me is free.
I'd like to savor His love and joy,
But I think I'll give it away,
His promise is real
And people should know
That His oil flows every day.
|
