The Presence of God

The closer we are to love,

the closer we are to God.

God is love,

and in Him there is no hatred at all.

Our quick judgments

and spiteful gossip,

even that found among the religious,

does not resemble God at all.

We are to reflect God,

yet sadly we often believe

that God is simple minded

and holds petty grudges

like us.

And so we drive

the broken and sinful away,

not realizing that in doing so,

we are driving God

from our very presence.

'Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? When did we see you sick or in prison and go to visit you?' The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me’' (Matthew 25:37-40).

Beloved Criminals

It doesn't matter what you believe,
God believes in you.
You can lift your fist in hateful rage.
Crucify him. Spit in His face.
But listen closely,
Beyond the rage of the crowds,
You can hear His soft voice.
'Father, forgive them.
For they know not what they do.'
It doesn't matter what you believe,
God believes in you.

I Am

I am the love amidst the hate
I am the glimmer of sun on a cloudy day
I am the smile amidst many frowns
I am the friend who listens when you are down
Be not afraid I've said again and again
I am abounding with love and grace, my friend
And when all others have left your side
I am the God waiting with arms open wide

Learning to Love

Regretfully,
I once told a poor beggar
to go and find some help
instead of
helping him myself.

Not Through

We have cause to be grateful
If there is breath in our lungs
For what good becomes
Of being disdainful?
We have cause to be grateful
If there are songs to be sung
And people who need to be loved.
God save us from being hateful
And if your eyes are tired
As mine sometimes are
Keep moving ahead
For there is much to be desired
And just maybe joy isn't very far
God's not through with you yet

Hold Me When I Fear

I want to be close to you, Oh God
Teach me your ways
Heal my broken heart Oh God
Make these paths straight
All the disappointment and pain I've seen
The right way isn't clear
I need direction and protection
Please hold me when I fear