tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74405424938090113702024-03-14T04:48:43.517-04:00frontporchpoetry-janetSit back, find a comfy chair, grab a cup of tea.......then feel free to enjoy the poetry on this 'front porch'.This poetry is written first and foremost TO BRING GOD GLORY!!It reflects thoughts on life, love and God.May you be refreshed, encouraged, challenged and comforted....and leave with a new appreciation and joy in the mighty God we serve! God bless you and to Him be the glory, Janet Martin......Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.comBlogger1037125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-88343828765088310802012-07-23T12:03:00.003-04:002012-07-23T12:03:40.147-04:00I am posting my poetry at <a href="http://anotherporch.blogspot.com/">anotherporch.blogspot.com</a><br />
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This blog is giving me trouble both to load and to post so I am posting all poems on my other blog. Thank-you for visiting. Feel free to read and share.<br />
To God be the glory!<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-29408241831571459292012-05-29T11:51:00.002-04:002012-05-29T11:51:54.518-04:00You Love Me<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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For every vile deceitful thing I am</div>
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You love me</div>
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For ever doubtful thought of shame</div>
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You love me</div>
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I offer up my anger and my grief</div>
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In tender mercy You behold my unbelief</div>
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And You love me</div>
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For ever step I walk in Judas’ shoes</div>
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You love me</div>
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For every tender blessing I refuse</div>
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You love me</div>
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In recompense for my complaint and greed</div>
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Your endless grace provides my humble need</div>
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As You love me</div>
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For every deed of foolish ignorance</div>
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You love me</div>
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For every blatant wasted, second chance</div>
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You love me</div>
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Mercy, compassion, like an ocean roll</div>
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To wash the sin-stain from my wretched soul</div>
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For You love me</div>
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© Janet Martin</div>
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<span class="text 1John-3-1" id="en-NIV-30581">See what great love the Father has lavished on us, </span></div>
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<span class="text 1John-3-1" id="en-NIV-30581">that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3:1</span></div>
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<br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-4481342769113714512012-05-24T20:14:00.003-04:002012-05-24T20:14:50.211-04:00I Know<div class="MsoNormal">
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I do not know…</div>
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before the sun</div>
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cajoles the western sky</div>
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what will befall,</div>
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but this I know</div>
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the Lord keeps you and I</div>
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I do not know </div>
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what waits beyond </div>
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the dark and distant hill</div>
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but this I know</div>
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before me goes</div>
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a Father's perfect will</div>
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and this I know</div>
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the unknown waits</div>
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and I, a shell of dust</div>
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can simply place </div>
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my hand in His</div>
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and in His wisdom trust</div>
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© Janet Martin</div>
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Trust in the Lord with all your heart</div>
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and do not lean on your own understanding...Prov. 3:5 </div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-28799930877747473432012-05-24T20:13:00.002-04:002012-05-24T20:13:28.042-04:00Awesome Acknowledgements<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Oh God, who can paint on an infinite nothing?</div>
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Has ever a man brushed his thought on the air?</div>
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Who can design, from the seed its fulfillment?</div>
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Man can do nothing but what you allot</div>
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The fruit of the field, of forest and garden</div>
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Blooms by the measure of Creator’s thought</div>
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Who teaches the bud of flower to open?</div>
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Or tells the tree its season to leaf?</div>
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Has ever a man plucked the rain from the heavens?</div>
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How fearful the greatness of our dependence</div>
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But for a God who loves us so much</div>
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That not one pebble escapes His vigilance</div>
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Hope and forgiveness exudes every touch</div>
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…and He who arranges the colors of heaven</div>
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Or stuns man’s babble to quieted awe</div>
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Seeks ultimately, intimately, the best for His children</div>
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For in Heaven and earth there is none like God</div>
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© Janet Martin</div>
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No one is like you, O LORD; you are great, and your name is mighty in power. Jer. 10:6<br />
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We gathered there...some on the bluff, others down on the beach<br />
each with our own version of 'watching the sun set...' </div>
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</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-52493576804829112372012-05-24T20:00:00.000-04:002013-04-18T13:22:54.528-04:00Thursday Thoughts~<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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He walks on water...the Keeper of the storm</div>
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Even the wind and the waves obey Him</div>
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...how much more then, ought we?</div>
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It is only when we come to the end of ourselves</div>
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That God can begin…</div>
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For all the good it does not do</div>
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Sometimes she wonders</div>
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What might have been?</div>
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Salty tears</div>
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A great heart-cleanser<br />
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To love is not the same<br />
as being 'in love'<br />
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Though duty may shorten its leash</div>
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It cannot keep the sun from smiling</div>
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Or nature from spilling its art</div>
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Through my window; nor can it quell</div>
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In the busyness of toil</div>
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The music of love in my heart</div>
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Come sunlight or shadow</div>
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Come high tide or low</div>
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God IS; ever changeless</div>
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Wherever we go</div>
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The Rock of Ages is Ageless</div>
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I cannot see the way ahead</div>
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Its portend or its girth</div>
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So I will put my faith instead</div>
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In God of Heaven and earth</div>
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He leads me</div>
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..Sometimes I am too stubborn to follow</div>
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He guides me</div>
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…sometimes I am too blinded by self to see</div>
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He loves me</div>
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…sometimes I forget just how much</div>
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Until I remember Calvary</div>
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Some friends flutter by</div>
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Like a butterfly</div>
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…and some are a fly in life’s butter</div>
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Some stick, not like honey in your hair</div>
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But closer than a brother</div>
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Janet~</div>
<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-32932869298184502562012-05-24T19:56:00.001-04:002012-05-24T19:56:50.409-04:00Softly Touching our Hand<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Gold fingers reach from a cloak gently softening</div>
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Over serene valley, blue-brimming with mist</div>
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Into the meadow, where its humble offering </div>
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Is threaded with diamonds of dew-silver kiss</div>
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The brook winds its sash across spring's emerald garment</div>
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Through pastoral wood-lot and out to the sea</div>
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Forgotten ponds burst with songs of the season </div>
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Turquoise-jade patches on earth’s rugged knee</div>
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Gentle breeze rouses the bird from its slumber</div>
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Nature’s choristers fill somnolent space</div>
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As over the earth spreads a heavenly wonder</div>
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Of unmarred perfection; a new day of grace</div>
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Yester's red sun, as it slipped from our visage</div>
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Tugged with it the day, into history’s embrace</div>
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Now it rises again; yet is not encumbered</div>
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With past’s soiled attempts; but a new day of grace</div>
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And we turn to the Master-piece dazzling the acre</div>
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Where grace has allowed us a dot on time’s sands</div>
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Thankfulness rushes through our hearts like pure water</div>
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As a new day of mercy softly touches our hands</div>
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© Janet Martin</div>
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It is not difficult to see His beauty on a morning like this…</div>
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This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Ps. 118:24</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-67743827573111347642012-05-09T08:29:00.001-04:002012-05-09T08:29:48.262-04:00Trouble Me Not...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Trouble me not; oh fear of tomorrow</div>
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Unknown is the visage of future intent</div>
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Trouble me not; oh yesterday’s sorrow</div>
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Firm is the seal on a moment when spent</div>
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Trouble me not; oh guilt that would haunt me</div>
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But for the Hands bearing scars in my stead</div>
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Trouble me not; though failure would taunt me</div>
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But for the Hope as my pardon flows red</div>
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Trouble me not; restless oceans of longing</div>
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Vain are the futile endeavors of dust</div>
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But oh, what fulfillment and peace in belonging</div>
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To He in whom we can affix our trust</div>
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Trouble me not; Lord, I plead for Your presence</div>
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To conquer the demons that quake ‘neath Your gaze</div>
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When I am weak God, Your strength is perfected</div>
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As I relinquish my will to Your ways</div>
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© Janet Martin</div>
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<span class="text 2Cor-12-9" id="en-NIV-29032">But he said to me, <span class="woj">“My grace is sufficient for you, </span></span></div>
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<span class="text 2Cor-12-9" id="en-NIV-29032"><span class="woj">for my power is made perfect in weakness.</span> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text 2Cor-12-9" id="en-NIV-29032">Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<span class="text 2Cor-12-9" id="en-NIV-29032">so that Christ’s power may rest on me. 2 Cor. 12:9</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-85598895949331298462012-05-09T08:27:00.002-04:002012-05-09T08:27:25.851-04:00Because of Him<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg63-Gb2BO2yMqSyoP5nm2K3x46TCY7Op1lwUh8uusHwQ4YBSxrNvS7nQM8FHcaSVZwEwFmJJYR5UIphgp8perNEAyahiNcFv-w6OMClSVgsOq92qWJC5vOk4oKPBXGE_03UuBbi1f70CqA/s1600/aa_but_for_the_grace_of_God.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg63-Gb2BO2yMqSyoP5nm2K3x46TCY7Op1lwUh8uusHwQ4YBSxrNvS7nQM8FHcaSVZwEwFmJJYR5UIphgp8perNEAyahiNcFv-w6OMClSVgsOq92qWJC5vOk4oKPBXGE_03UuBbi1f70CqA/s400/aa_but_for_the_grace_of_God.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Because of the grace and the love He has shown</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Because of His word that will not pass away</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
We have a foundation of rare, precious Stone</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A blueprint for living as we build day by day</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Because of His absolute forgiveness of sin</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
We are set free from the burden of guilt</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
No condemnation remains deep within</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Redemption impartial flows in His life-blood spilt</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Because of His infinite mercy and care</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Hope will sustain us in spite of travail</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
We have a Father who does not despair</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
His way is perfect; His love will not fail</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
© Janet Martin</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Let no man deceive himself. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
If any man among you seems to be wise in this world</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
let him become a fool that he may be wise.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
for the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
For it is written: <i>He takes the wise in their own craftiness</i>. 1 Cor. 3:18-19</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-72341567037565266632012-05-03T12:57:00.002-04:002012-05-03T12:57:32.273-04:00Do Not Despair<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG3tnzqca9X4OcRSAUh8aEEq3EY6Pp98O6C7YuQE9Z70rwZ-WtvKln0E1VB1WmtPGwC7Qj2TLiazwIJcg3pE1vaFGr89I90r8lGkIvBUf1VpBpFcswc9DEqTfadaHsqvZFAfOhlPLZbOND/s1600/October.2011+076.jpgccrr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiG3tnzqca9X4OcRSAUh8aEEq3EY6Pp98O6C7YuQE9Z70rwZ-WtvKln0E1VB1WmtPGwC7Qj2TLiazwIJcg3pE1vaFGr89I90r8lGkIvBUf1VpBpFcswc9DEqTfadaHsqvZFAfOhlPLZbOND/s400/October.2011+076.jpgccrr.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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</div>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Do not despair</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Though grief and care</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
May bleed our laughter dry</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And mortal pain</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
May seek to drain</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The well-spring in our eye</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Do not give up</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Though pleasure’s cup</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Is cracked or sadly scarred</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
There is an ear</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Bent close to hear</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The groaning of the heart</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Do not dismay</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
A fairer day</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Awaits beyond the vale</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
As step by step</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
He lifts us up</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
In arms that never fail</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
© Janet Martin</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your
God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my
righteous right hand. Isa. 41:10</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-42226295601508792682012-04-10T08:29:00.001-04:002012-04-10T08:29:23.172-04:00The Unknown<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSREdAeJRBt96r-VbrmNic_RncEfNydXE-6YEPpG0kp2I_3ZpW9r7lg8yrYrR7LZL4SxQ3Uc3MB7iq-iuUmeh0b9xY95B5BZs2OBKsDR1gOPInnQ9qVmogT6aglqwC4zNv46F-W_lSK81W/s1600/578786-bigthumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSREdAeJRBt96r-VbrmNic_RncEfNydXE-6YEPpG0kp2I_3ZpW9r7lg8yrYrR7LZL4SxQ3Uc3MB7iq-iuUmeh0b9xY95B5BZs2OBKsDR1gOPInnQ9qVmogT6aglqwC4zNv46F-W_lSK81W/s320/578786-bigthumbnail.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The unknown; an inevitable strait</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
All voyages pass through</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
There is no one who can escape</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
This ethereal avenue</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
We stand upon life’s open deck</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And sail the roving sea</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Only our Captain can predict</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
What the Unknown will be</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Fear not the waves beneath the calm</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Fear not the stormy gale</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The Captain holds within His palm</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The ocean and the sail</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
© Janet Martin</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.esvbible.org/Psalm+139/"> http://www.esvbible.org/Psalm+139/</a></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-67678953208318818102012-04-10T08:25:00.000-04:002012-04-10T08:25:47.080-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmQSP_r5CSPCsYkNiQhjq6up_6AXSnvNI5NmUpKmzIxOt1ph-4McZjjVZJcqnrMkH0c-2p7pLFVBm-8WrVDdd9H6OY74Dsk0D24PT8tKQPOh2qH0xtqZVeI-d7hGYgfz6k1kFiOI94syGp/s1600/1DA_light-unto-my-path.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmQSP_r5CSPCsYkNiQhjq6up_6AXSnvNI5NmUpKmzIxOt1ph-4McZjjVZJcqnrMkH0c-2p7pLFVBm-8WrVDdd9H6OY74Dsk0D24PT8tKQPOh2qH0xtqZVeI-d7hGYgfz6k1kFiOI94syGp/s320/1DA_light-unto-my-path.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Our understanding at best, O God</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Is inadequate and trite</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
On our own each breath a fraud</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And every moment, night</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Our perception without Your Spirit</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Is blinded ignorance</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And Death, O death, how I would fear it</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
But for deliverance </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Your mercy, hope and love fulfills</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Your changeless eye of grace</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
The tempter wears ten-thousand ills</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Deceiving human race</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Our understanding will ever be</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Only what God imbues</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Therefore but by His grace go we</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
On earth-bound avenues</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Beyond these briefest stance of Time</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Our eyes will see anew</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
As we behold Love, pure, sublime</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Oh God, as we see you</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
© Janet Martin</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold the Lamb of God</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
which takes away the sins of the world. <a href="http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=John+1&version=NIV">John 1</a>:29 </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
"He is no fool who gives up what he cannot keep to gain that which he cannot lose" -- Jim Elliot </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-37311058243616061562012-04-05T00:20:00.001-04:002012-04-05T00:20:28.384-04:00Royal Wedding<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdng3aZsWh_pvpnTAwG_pgoZZgyznIjlWA4l-8QXLmWQ5wENUMdpLofpeAYjfq2DjHn8Nmlb8eINKyF76e4AW37TEJ8gxslqlPbuhj2JBOU-FBrtf8C4-Um-ZYe1vndVKyaJT_beco9kK_/s1600/wedding_feast.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdng3aZsWh_pvpnTAwG_pgoZZgyznIjlWA4l-8QXLmWQ5wENUMdpLofpeAYjfq2DjHn8Nmlb8eINKyF76e4AW37TEJ8gxslqlPbuhj2JBOU-FBrtf8C4-Um-ZYe1vndVKyaJT_beco9kK_/s320/wedding_feast.gif" width="244" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold: look yonder </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
See what breaks the ramparts of the sky</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
As golden thunder</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Sends the stars in showers from on high</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold; who comes</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
In royalty on heaven’s mercy seat</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
With angel legions at his side</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Winged creatures at His feet</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold; what sounds</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
What fills the air with roar of rushing water?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
And who descends</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
With glory rare in search of Zion’s daughter?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold; behold</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
It is the Lord. Behold the Bridegroom comes</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
As hallelujah fills the air</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
His bride is coming home</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold the Love</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
He sees her there in linens bright and clean</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold the blood</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
That cleansed Her where vile sin-stains once had been</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
Behold the song</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
That rends the earth; behold the great I AM</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
‘<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Blessed are those invited to</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The wedding of the Lamb’</i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
© Janet Martin</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="verserev195">Then a voice came from the throne, saying:</span><br />
<span class="verserev195">"Praise our God,</span><br />
<span class="verserev195">all you his servants,</span><br />
<span class="verserev195">you who fear him,</span><br />
<span class="verserev195">both great and small!"</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>6</b><span class="verserev196"> Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting:</span><br />
<span class="verserev196">"Hallelujah!</span><br />
<span class="verserev196">For our Lord God Almighty reigns.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>7</b><span class="verserev197"> Let us rejoice and be glad</span><br />
<span class="verserev197">and give him glory!</span><br />
<span class="verserev197">For the wedding of the Lamb has come,</span><br />
<span class="verserev197">and his bride has made herself ready.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>8</b><span class="verserev198"> Fine linen, bright and clean,</span><br />
<span class="verserev198">was given her to wear."</span><br />
<span class="verserev198">(Fine linen stands for the righteous acts of God's holy people.)</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>9</b><span class="verserev199"> Then
the angel said to me, "Write this: Blessed are those who are invited to
the wedding supper of the Lamb!" And he added, "These are the true
words of God."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="verserev199">Rev. 19: 5-9</span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-32857599927527797252012-04-05T00:15:00.000-04:002012-04-05T00:15:08.369-04:00Four Easter Tankas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNFEn-A_v0jVzJMvGN40x7ftXiOoOF5uji4_psDX0ujVwvnX7j1nSoGQKH3_eJLwnzG-mIllYEVKuYvWRUn4pJ_chaww-vdqMuGoYxD95s72vkh6P26sXTqM_ZYn90lY1aiS1RQdNsMBH/s1600/hallelujahwhatasavior.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfNFEn-A_v0jVzJMvGN40x7ftXiOoOF5uji4_psDX0ujVwvnX7j1nSoGQKH3_eJLwnzG-mIllYEVKuYvWRUn4pJ_chaww-vdqMuGoYxD95s72vkh6P26sXTqM_ZYn90lY1aiS1RQdNsMBH/s400/hallelujahwhatasavior.jpg" /></a></div>
While I chose my pride
He chose three nails and a cross
A spear in his side
While rivers of holy blood
Poured in streams of redemption
***
While I stood with them
Scoffing to hide my just fear
He gave perfect love
As He bowed His thorn-crowned Head
Declaring, ‘it is finished’
***
While I stood condemned
Jesus signed my redemption
With His sacred blood
And now all who will believe
May have everlasting life…
***
(I was going to stop here, but how can I? One more tanka of humble grateful praise)
Sing hallelujah
Lift your voice in joyful praise
Christ reigns forever
This King calls us His children
All we must do is believe
~Janet Martin~<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-31550617849087344902012-04-05T00:07:00.001-04:002012-04-05T00:09:17.362-04:00Grand Privilege<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xG4JNHqAqIucFReNkzJBK2rdpXAC3aCh2TnwKt2UGXvhf1MDPiKaQIm45GuZGNGQUlaDY6m9Ye7Kckobgd_23U7F1UCEw8f5aUIHbFYgUrMvTO2cDhREmw-9ZojilJIbUOqfMh3We6Ug/s1600/jesus-crucified.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1xG4JNHqAqIucFReNkzJBK2rdpXAC3aCh2TnwKt2UGXvhf1MDPiKaQIm45GuZGNGQUlaDY6m9Ye7Kckobgd_23U7F1UCEw8f5aUIHbFYgUrMvTO2cDhREmw-9ZojilJIbUOqfMh3We6Ug/s400/jesus-crucified.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5727763818221065090" /></a><br />It is no small thing<br />This privilege we are given<br />To approach the throne of grace<br />And God of earth and Heaven<br />To make our wants and wishes known<br />And claim His victory as our own<br /><br />It is no mere thought<br />That we can freely call<br />Upon the Name of Christ the Lord<br />Creator of us all<br />That He who formed us from the dust<br />May be the One in whom we trust<br /><br />When we beckon to Him<br />It is no casual place<br />That we approach with love and shame<br />To kneel in His embrace<br />But by His holy Blood-drops spilt<br />He vanquishes our debt of guilt<br /><br />It is no small thing<br />This little word called prayer<br />As He makes intercession<br />For those groans we cannot air<br />And there He lavishes on us<br />The hope we find in Him, JESUS!<br /><br />© Janet Martin<br /><br /><br /> Pray without ceasing; 1 Thess. 5:17<br /><br />Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. Romans 8:26<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-28406485944461873062012-03-08T21:33:00.002-05:002012-03-08T21:36:30.000-05:00God Forbid...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzud9iWwLJRX79qFVl2ZFvFBxtoMPnTQQjvHsW3R3RFbwkZbif10eaKgXd1ptEn7nUQn5j8U2FtIzcbhm3NC2xMdz47ZU4X35U8xvaAWz8PcALN-OnBD9uFEVm4yj1mC9Su1AhxYZlmXl/s1600/3942913119_33ab871684.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzud9iWwLJRX79qFVl2ZFvFBxtoMPnTQQjvHsW3R3RFbwkZbif10eaKgXd1ptEn7nUQn5j8U2FtIzcbhm3NC2xMdz47ZU4X35U8xvaAWz8PcALN-OnBD9uFEVm4yj1mC9Su1AhxYZlmXl/s400/3942913119_33ab871684.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5717720585520775010" /></a><br />God forbid that I should worship<br />Temporal gods of clay and rust<br />Gathering in my groping visage<br />Treasure-chests of painted dust<br /><br />God forbid that I should journey<br />From the cradle to the grave<br />Only then to find in horror<br />They are powerless to save<br /><br />God forbid that I should hunger<br />In the wantonness of things<br />Choosing never to discover<br />Heaven’s sacred offerings<br /><br />God forbid, as centuries trickle<br />Through the clouds above a stone<br />That I should thus remain forever<br />Bound by gods without a throne<br /><br />© Janet Martin<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-29130534452751362622012-02-10T15:33:00.000-05:002012-02-10T15:34:23.462-05:00Ark of Safety<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwm8KrpUfBClmRS2bvZ6ffFwuKBdy5crFjno3KXmR8egEMOsKFze6ggzccmFklv-O8SjcNHungc_kQmnDjgb7yj6Hg0rpx64moaOLEUoCTWiXCI5mnuE9dHlm44JPyQnRyABRWnCnZvOo/s1600/ark_angel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 321px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFwm8KrpUfBClmRS2bvZ6ffFwuKBdy5crFjno3KXmR8egEMOsKFze6ggzccmFklv-O8SjcNHungc_kQmnDjgb7yj6Hg0rpx64moaOLEUoCTWiXCI5mnuE9dHlm44JPyQnRyABRWnCnZvOo/s400/ark_angel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707607923604050642" /></a><br />Upon the shores of grace we stand<br />Where Time and Mercy plead<br />Before wrath’s flood will wash earth’s sand<br />Into eternity<br /><br />The ark is built; the door ajar<br />And whosoever will<br />May come into its sure stronghold<br />Before Time’s clock stands still<br /><br />As in the days of Noah; now<br />Because of unbelief<br />The Master waits; lengthens the hour<br />Before sin’s final grief<br /><br />Today He pleads and suffers long<br />He beckons to each mortal<br />Eternity lays in His palm<br />Trembling on heaven’s portal<br /><br />As in the days of Noah, He<br />Implores, yearns and beseeches<br />For this last Ark will not return<br />When He closes its reaches<br /><br />Upon the shores of grace we kneel<br />Oh, how long will He tarry?<br />Before the door of Mercy seals<br />The seeker from its safety<br /><br />© Janet Martin<br /><br />This morning the little guy I babysit and I were looking at view-master reels. One reel was Noah’s Ark. One picture caught my breath…the last two animals…turtles,(cute:) were through the door and it was closing, never to open on this side of the flood.<br /><br />Now we see another door, still open. When it will close, not even the angels know. Only the One True God…I AM knows the day and the hour...<br /><br /><br />Behold, now is “THE ACCEPTABLE TIME,” behold, now is “THE DAY OF SALVATION” 2 Cor.6:2<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-9003475570771648282012-02-09T09:18:00.003-05:002012-02-09T09:20:39.322-05:00Miracles<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV43rAtt-E4FXnaNUEqKJ4LGEFm5U87R9P8RbYLyqFKm1Tp0I8hftVYWxFugHMUeC6mNxdZTRIke8SzJd4bAIXf0_MoCpLjjMvYp0B0qCr0z6U8AJX6kefmarRwSLGwr2cps6AasxR1Ifm/s1600/Feb.+2012+023.jpgcrop.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV43rAtt-E4FXnaNUEqKJ4LGEFm5U87R9P8RbYLyqFKm1Tp0I8hftVYWxFugHMUeC6mNxdZTRIke8SzJd4bAIXf0_MoCpLjjMvYp0B0qCr0z6U8AJX6kefmarRwSLGwr2cps6AasxR1Ifm/s400/Feb.+2012+023.jpgcrop.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707140483454357378" /></a><br />He stirs the sod and wooden limb<br />With miracles uncommon<br />As nature, in grand diadem<br />Exalts the God of Heaven<br /><br />The willing hands, the humble hearts<br />He fills with power glorious<br />And by the wisdom He imparts<br />They will return victorious<br /><br />Within the acorn; oak trees wait<br />Within a drop; a fountain<br />Within a mustard seed of faith<br />The strength to move a mountain<br /><br />Celestial ramparts shout His praise<br />And cause our minds to wonder<br />At mysteries beyond those gates<br />In portals over yonder<br /><br />Janet Martin<br /><br />Last night on the way home from my son's hockey game it struck me...<br />the days are getting longer once again...and Time is getting shorter.<br /><br /><br /> For as the soil makes the sprout come up <br /> and a garden causes seeds to grow, <br />so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness <br /> and praise spring up before all nations. Isa. 61:11<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-14157506117928495572012-02-09T09:16:00.002-05:002012-02-09T09:17:16.674-05:00We Are Beautiful<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwOnBoJt_Xbidm2WQfQWwMyp_4HhLa45b5cKlq-UCRI4YHqe2RUQJms5YZikrRckbWGNP2olfRDi8COOGxJjLU9gF-d3S-85F0s0yV8dKfSGPu4gYEEyfubt8rXcvlW7fmD3VjmugoXRX4/s1600/blood-cross-bright-red.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwOnBoJt_Xbidm2WQfQWwMyp_4HhLa45b5cKlq-UCRI4YHqe2RUQJms5YZikrRckbWGNP2olfRDi8COOGxJjLU9gF-d3S-85F0s0yV8dKfSGPu4gYEEyfubt8rXcvlW7fmD3VjmugoXRX4/s400/blood-cross-bright-red.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707139731735876034" /></a><br />There is a wondrous beauty<br />Clothing us from deep within<br />Beneath the shallow proof of Time<br />Caressed upon our skin<br /><br />The mirror does not show the man<br />Only our mortal face<br />It graciously conceals the span<br />Of our vast disgrace<br /><br />Yet, God in tender love and grace<br />To all who trust His name<br />Clothes us with His pure righteousness<br />In garments without shame<br /><br />The world may judge our clothes and frown<br />But they cannot behold<br />The beauty of a royal gown<br />Clothing a blood-bought soul<br /><br />© Janet Martin<br /><br />I read this verse this morning and rejoiced.<br /><br /><br />I delight greatly in the LORD;<br /> my soul rejoices in my God.<br />For he has clothed me with garments of salvation<br /> and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness,<br />as a bridegroom adorns his head like a priest,<br /> and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels.<br /><br /> Isa. 61:10<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-23589486420428433842012-02-01T11:12:00.003-05:002012-02-01T14:11:35.906-05:00Beyond this Battle<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFdnQJKGea9Hz16k8zqDAhJEwOQK0GyqWsi81m5jPPIfe0FBPSsfsuifyMJTl_MtyxNmDnFTCNdNjMhIWfHb5OnJEUwlnvvCwV0rBTAvotsASTQqrAa74MLhXNZ9dnqcSSUVIh6x5kNTf/s1600/war_horse_movie.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 201px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsFdnQJKGea9Hz16k8zqDAhJEwOQK0GyqWsi81m5jPPIfe0FBPSsfsuifyMJTl_MtyxNmDnFTCNdNjMhIWfHb5OnJEUwlnvvCwV0rBTAvotsASTQqrAa74MLhXNZ9dnqcSSUVIh6x5kNTf/s400/war_horse_movie.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704201692127268482" /></a><br />Hold our hands, we cannot see<br />Beyond the steps we take<br />God, be our steadfast surety<br />For You make no mistake<br />And oh, we are so prone to stray<br />As pastures beckon, come<br />Be our Captain through the fray<br />Guide this battalion home<br /><br />The unknown is a gaping void<br />Of misery and fear<br />Hope would swiftly be destroyed<br />Without Your Presence near<br />But as we feel Your tender touch<br />Sustaining faithfully<br />We do not need to fear so much<br />The things we cannot see<br /><br />The fight is not forever Lord<br />The hour is at hand<br />When we will leave our temporal swords<br />In plough-shares made of sand<br />Oh God, it seems we see You etched<br />Against the setting sun<br />Into the trenches, arms out-stretched,<br />We hear You calling come<br /><br />…and so we press toward Your arms<br />The battle is not done<br />This world with all its empty charms<br />Is but the stepping-stone<br />A plot of dirt on which we stand<br />Reaching in humble trust<br />To hold Your gracious out-stretched hand<br />Your glory to our dust…<br /><br />The victory banner waves on high<br />Beyond this tear-stained plight<br />Hold our hands and be our Guide<br />Within the thickest fight<br />Through enemy lines we will forge<br />The battle is not long<br />Hold our hands and lead us, Lord<br />Oh, keep your warriors strong<br /><br /><br /> Janet Martin<br /><br />I saw the movie War Horse last night.<br />The final scene touched me immensely...<br />A picture of weary, wounded warriors coming home.<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-6253340703203736642012-01-26T09:58:00.002-05:002012-01-26T10:00:49.898-05:00This I Know...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXJa5Ak3oPZtwTnp7ZYbwTjSt8QFGJGYRZrGsKSB597vzB_MXbAKKOvYRkfLtK7qPSdZRYdy0JNQXcXfBDe8Q7QiGRIYCZ0lA-Tu5jABYyTYbf3DdyQ0TjZHzfBoP0LsWwUcRmmr-3RXW/s1600/DSCN3804.JPGwonderful.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuXJa5Ak3oPZtwTnp7ZYbwTjSt8QFGJGYRZrGsKSB597vzB_MXbAKKOvYRkfLtK7qPSdZRYdy0JNQXcXfBDe8Q7QiGRIYCZ0lA-Tu5jABYyTYbf3DdyQ0TjZHzfBoP0LsWwUcRmmr-3RXW/s400/DSCN3804.JPGwonderful.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701955764964057826" /></a><br /><br />I do not know<br />How it is that each rose unfolds<br />In pure and flawless splendor<br />Or how an infinity of planets<br />Exists beyond our visage<br />A glorious mystery, uncharted<br />I do not know<br />How it is that you are far from me<br />Yet ache in every heartbeat<br />Or how waters flow unceasingly<br />Yet its source is not depleted<br />I do not know what brings the robin<br />To its nest in the same tree<br />Or how a world beneath the ocean<br />Can exist in untainted beauty<br />I do not know<br />How many days remain to tread this sod<br />Or who will be the first to go<br />But one thing I do know…<br />I know whom I have believed<br />And am persuaded that he is able<br />To keep that which I’ve committed<br />Unto Him against that day. (2 Tim. 1:12)<br />I know He is the One True God<br /><br />Janet~<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-46666047538447242772012-01-26T09:06:00.001-05:002012-01-26T09:09:02.350-05:00The Lovely Flower<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45HXUSEDQjA0w_hOU9BmTjl2LVuDFTz_5lF-GuSWIQtehWlOn3iDlPe3pLMsbcrFd0h_1jVuAdbSDYaPhbOnROy8az6uQHZdSfe4wrCSFv_j-BV0vF3C61VXYci1MZf_pSD2YYp4NWy5i/s1600/August+2011+013.jpgup+close.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh45HXUSEDQjA0w_hOU9BmTjl2LVuDFTz_5lF-GuSWIQtehWlOn3iDlPe3pLMsbcrFd0h_1jVuAdbSDYaPhbOnROy8az6uQHZdSfe4wrCSFv_j-BV0vF3C61VXYci1MZf_pSD2YYp4NWy5i/s400/August+2011+013.jpgup+close.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701942263560635666" /></a><br />Kindness is a lovely flower<br />One cannot force its seed<br />But there is nothing like the power<br />Of kindness touching need<br /><br />Kindness is a lovely bloom<br />It needs no pot or bowl<br />Its fragrance fills the dreary room<br />And cheers the down-cast soul<br /><br />Kindness is a stunning rose<br />Of pure and humble beauty<br />Its root in selfless visage grows<br />And never out of duty<br /><br />Kindness is a lovely flower<br />All can afford its splendor<br />In every season, every hour<br />Its bloom is fair and tender<br /><br />Janet~<br /><br />)Be kind to one another, tenderhearted,forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. Ephes. 4:32<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-76371640711770062502012-01-26T08:50:00.001-05:002012-01-26T08:53:23.178-05:00Undying Need<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FSdbie7l6v83xzUN8JlbP75Ro6a7V8eSax9FBfQAsfV-ge1iGNU1k4h2-lc9VLnS8MhkpgOWYhS58dQGVIAHOoLnFusATcKkYXIijJyGS76TQkdf3Jcj_uh4ou_MLNu2QM4e-DsqVexJ/s1600/August2011+023.jpgcrop.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FSdbie7l6v83xzUN8JlbP75Ro6a7V8eSax9FBfQAsfV-ge1iGNU1k4h2-lc9VLnS8MhkpgOWYhS58dQGVIAHOoLnFusATcKkYXIijJyGS76TQkdf3Jcj_uh4ou_MLNu2QM4e-DsqVexJ/s400/August2011+023.jpgcrop.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701938428993063378" /></a><br />Lord, give me a need undying<br />And never let me stray<br />Nor lean on my understanding<br />But to need You every day<br /><br />Lord give me eyes to see You<br />Within each little flower<br />To know the Hand that formed its cup<br />Holds me through every hour<br /><br />Lord, give me ears to hear you<br />As nature throbs Your dues<br />For if You hear a sparrow’s song<br />Then you will hear mine too<br /><br />Lord, give me faith to need You<br />When everything is fine<br />And never take a single step<br />Without Your hand on mine<br /><br />Lord, give me an undying need<br />To need you every day<br />Lest in my folly I should lead<br />And sadly go astray<br /><br />Janet Martin<br /><br />The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want…Ps. 23<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-85057921393215453782012-01-25T14:16:00.003-05:002012-02-12T17:24:24.012-05:00Answers...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTlsOAkF5AaRTsbcNhPL8JPr_VadRSlfs3Ulbz26UT-RtvPekY3vMvT1SgPRuH9v2ClNphEaDKNuwD-MPkKl6ZZCW1OZDQy66qgrIFY7sbwRHMtiXRjJlMMhuIUlcBbtotQzybToXFO1wc/s1600/project-365-fall-seven-20100811.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTlsOAkF5AaRTsbcNhPL8JPr_VadRSlfs3Ulbz26UT-RtvPekY3vMvT1SgPRuH9v2ClNphEaDKNuwD-MPkKl6ZZCW1OZDQy66qgrIFY7sbwRHMtiXRjJlMMhuIUlcBbtotQzybToXFO1wc/s400/project-365-fall-seven-20100811.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701650990658049794" /></a><br />‘God answered my prayer’<br />She happily beamed<br />From the fruit of her granted request<br />I smiled for a child<br />Is allowed to gleam<br />With the thrill of wee faith put to test<br />Someday she will see<br />When she’s old like me<br />That God answers each prayer we pray<br />And for our own good<br />Because we ask, not as we should<br />His reply is not always our way<br /><br />Janet~<br /><br />Just because we cannot see<br />The answer bright and clear<br />Is not an indication<br />That somehow God did not hear<br />His answers are a mystery<br />We cannot understand<br />We simply put our trust in Him<br />Who holds us in His hands<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-82902067935837287412012-01-25T13:30:00.002-05:002012-01-25T13:33:36.263-05:00You Are Not Alone<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFaCk_yQtfYIssaBgoTm4f7TVg7l3zTNhYD9cPn8CdsXNSdEsGlNp7gIiTv_3AHbG8N0v5I99scCOncw1MWpzRUWtKzf8cgHk3Ss_dfwRtOuQYAF7UIv8xJ2FeHR8iufow2WF_utQowy3/s1600/beneath+the+same+moon.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFaCk_yQtfYIssaBgoTm4f7TVg7l3zTNhYD9cPn8CdsXNSdEsGlNp7gIiTv_3AHbG8N0v5I99scCOncw1MWpzRUWtKzf8cgHk3Ss_dfwRtOuQYAF7UIv8xJ2FeHR8iufow2WF_utQowy3/s400/beneath+the+same+moon.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701639490583963586" /></a><br /><br />When midnight is lonesome and heavy and deep<br />When need in your bosom is stronger than sleep<br />When longing is clenching the hope from your soul<br />And life is a journey without a clear goal<br />You are not alone<br /><br />When empty arms yearn for someone to embrace<br />When love’s loss has stolen the thrill from life’s race<br />When cold lonely hours bleed away, undefined<br />And night’s endless hollow expands in your mind<br />You are not alone<br /><br />When tears of desire and helpless despair<br />Weep in every heart-beat and breathe on the air<br />When only the darkness responds to your plea<br />And nothing but silence keeps you company<br />You are not alone<br /><br />Someone is waiting to be a true Friend<br />Arms full of mercy and grace without end<br />God so loved the world that He sent His dear Son<br />He is a true, faithful Friend to each one<br />You are not alone<br /><br /><br />What can we do His fellowship to receive?<br />All we can do is simply believe<br />His grace sufficient is love’s offering<br />Tender, omniscient are the words of a King<br />“You are not alone”<br /><br />Janet<br /><br />And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Matt. 28:20<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7440542493809011370.post-42515907625882355432012-01-25T10:28:00.004-05:002012-01-25T13:41:08.692-05:00Is This It?<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_22SWh_yUnQTnEjDuFFaG23rQIiqOsj9QYA6sJiSaEuWIa2WyyZmDwWgwtBJql0cf_Y1fU13KtPt2FNWYz8pblPO0ZJGR0oAqt2OLlAlrpunkNpmmeq2KbuE8avrDooZovnA9_D4Kytmg/s1600/October.2011+176.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_22SWh_yUnQTnEjDuFFaG23rQIiqOsj9QYA6sJiSaEuWIa2WyyZmDwWgwtBJql0cf_Y1fU13KtPt2FNWYz8pblPO0ZJGR0oAqt2OLlAlrpunkNpmmeq2KbuE8avrDooZovnA9_D4Kytmg/s400/October.2011+176.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701640426075664242" /></a><br /><br />Is this all there is?<br />Hope refurbished with hope<br />Assurances of ‘better days’<br />As to its void we grope<br /><br />Is this all there is?<br />A fleeting day of youth<br />Before the cold and solemn kiss<br />Of consequence’s truth<br /><br />Is this all there is?<br />A grasping of thin air<br />Before hands fold upon our chest<br />In coffins of despair<br /><br />Is this all there is?<br />A kaleidoscope of dirt<br />Chaotic sequences of bliss<br />And brokenness and hurt<br /><br />Is this all there is?<br />A pithy poem or two<br />Before our painted emptiness<br />Is stripped for all to view<br /><br />Is this all there is?<br />Without our God to trust<br />Yes, this is all that there would be<br />A journey back to dust<br /><br />This is not all there is<br />Though bodies will decay<br />They hold within a living soul<br />That never fades away<br /><br />Janet~<br /><br />For God so loved the world<br />He gave His only Son<br /><br />That whosoever believes on Him<br />will not perish<br />But have eternal Life. John 3:16<div class="blogger-post-footer">www.frontporchpoetry-janet.blogspot.com</div>Janethttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07595712501937192801noreply@blogger.com0