A Hand Along the Journey: Poems for the King from One Pilgrim to Another

"...I am with you always..." (Matt. 28:20) By my bed You sit with me To talk at night once more And my heart stirs at what faith sees - Kindness in Your eyes, my Lord. You always look at me with love, As does Your Father, too. It makes me want to know more of My holy God - all that is You. This year's Easter week is here, And with it comes reflection On Scripture's canvas painted clear; The Lamb is my salvation. Submission to the Father's will Had never been so costly; Strength met sorrow when You kneeled 'Neath olive trees surrenderingly. I wish I could've done something To help You way back then! Instead it was my own causing; You died for all my sin. Still today You're strong for me; Your gracious hands reach out To meet all needs so patiently. You'll never cast me out. At such a love my soul is stirred To love You back, my King; For when the Shepherd's voice is heard, All else is naught esteemed. Father, please send back Your Son! I long to...

Nineteen years ago and a continent away, a new alphabet was written. The twenty-six English letters became the starting point for twenty-six phrases that summarized important truths, truths important enough to be foundational stones for life building. The place?  The FMCA 3 rd -5 th grade classroom in Lima, Peru. The people? Miss Boley, Jared, Andrea, Jeff, Cailie, and Alex. The pattern? I'd write one phrase and an illustrative short story a week, with my students each getting a chance to pick one setting, and write one story as well. We memorized those twenty-six phrases as the year progressed, and though I don't know if my students remember any of them today, from time to time I think of a letter and its accompanying truth: D, Q, H, C.... Although it's not poetry, I decided a couple weeks ago to post that “Alphabet to Live By” on this blog. It is my prayer that a letter or two will resonate with each reader. The corresponding short stories are available on request. ...