Oneness

To seek together
   the One True Path
      which leads us
   to the feet of our Maker.

To give together
   the One True Gift
      of our hearts
   to Him in awe and reverence.

To find together
   the One True Love
      which leads us
   to obey our Master's call.

To know together
   the One True Joy
      of learning
   to rest in His warm embrace.


by Nathan Dunlap,  January 27, 1999

Note:  My husband wrote this poem for our 9th anniversary, 15 years ago.  I now realize so much truth in this poem.  Without God's abiding grace, moment by moment, oneness is a far fetched goal, but as we learn to abide in Christ as this poem beautifully expresses, we will grow in unity with one another.  This is not only true in a marriage, but is also true in His Church.  So I ask you all to pray for unity in the Church Universal, the Body of Christ, for we are called to be a light in this world.

A Piece of Heaven

Knowing you is like a slice of sunny skies;
   Your cheerful countenance illuminates your space.
Your doll-like daughter's dancing eyes
    Reflecting God's abiding grace.

The warmth and joy I saw in you
    Hath wrought a change in me,
And so I thank the Lord most high.
    This piece of heaven I did see.


12-15-2013
by Mama Anna  (my Tanzanian name, since my oldest daughter is named Anna)

Her smile is contagious

A piece of heaven in Nyakato

Rock of My Heart

Rock of my heart, and my Fortress Tower,
   Dear are Thy thoughts to me,
Like the unfolding of leaf or flower
   Opening silently.
And on the edge of these Thy ways,
   Standing in awe as heretofore,
Thee do I worship, Thee do I praise,
      And adore.

Rock of my heart, and my Fortress Tower,
   Dear is Thy love to me,
Search I the world for a word of power,
   Find it at Calvary---
O deeps of love that rise and flow
   Round about me and all things mine,
Love of all loves, in Thee I know
      Love Divine.

by Amy Carmichael, from Edges of His Ways

Note: While we lived in Tanzania, I discovered this book which had great devotional ideas and poems by Amy Carmichael. I will be sharing some of her poems this year since I find her poetry expresses the depth of Christian thought, yet in a simple way.  May you be blessed this new year in knowing God's unfailing love for you. This love of God is steadfast and sure.  God's love is the firm foundation we can rely on as we face various challenges in life. As we grow in the knowledge of God's love, we will find we are shaken less often by the circumstances we face. Happy New Year, friends.