IF 4-29-07

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IF, for someone that I love, I do for them some good,
How should I feel afterward - if I’m misunderstood?

IF, for someone that's a friend, I lend a helping hand,
How would I feel afterward - if more they would command?

IF, for someone that I know, I encourage and advise,
How would I feel afterward - if they screamed selfish cries?

IF, for strangers I should meet, and their anger wished my head,
How would I feel afterward - would I love them all instead?

IF, for enemies that I see, as I save their life, am maimed,
How would I feel afterward - if for their bruises, I were blamed?

How do I feel toward God Almighty - who gave His only Son?
Do I really thank Him for His gift - or do I wallow in my fun?

Do I misunderstand, command of Him, or blame when things go wrong?
Or love another as He so loved - as His witness all life long?

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
ganderpoems.org

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God Loves Me 4-25-07

When I was just a little child, so many years ago,
joy and gladness filled my face wherever I would go.
I never had to worry. I had no earthly cares.
I'd play all day and then that night, I'd say my evening prayers.

But then, as I grew older, some pain had filled my face,
I'd scrape my knees and elbows - once broke mom's pretty vase.
Then passing through my teenage years and though I learned so much,
opinions got the best of me and stole the Masters touch.

Years had passed - and decades too - in my tenacious life.
Oh, I had pounded my own drum and blew my little fife.
Like a tree with trunk and limbs - I knew each branch, their twigs.
I grew in all directions - in twisted zags and zigs.

As God exposed His beauty - in me, in every leaf,
I soaked up all that certainty, with faith in my belief.
One by one leaves opened, full proof for all to see -
but I forgot about my roots and what God's plan might be.

One day while sitting on my throne - in educated bliss....
I wondered (Bible in my hands) what secret did I miss?
I panted in my studies. I prayed in earnest pleas....
It hit me like a ton of bricks - and crushed me to my knees.

My mighty tree had crashed in vain. It timbered from the sky....
Yes, only God knows everything – every truth and lie.
God found that long lost child once more as tears poured down my cheeks,
and I found His great joy again. I listen when He speaks.

I follow in His footsteps. I let his Spirit heal -
and once again, as long before, the Master's touch I feel.
In faith I lay me down to sleep - my deathbed He can see,
and nothing really matters now, except that God loves me.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org

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I'd Better Think Some More 4-7-07

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I'm made each day to go to work beyond my comfy door;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I'm made to watch my neighbors with possessions by the score;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I'm made to get down on my knees to clean a dirty floor;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I'm made to lie awake at night and know my spouse can snore;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I'm made to cross the farmyard to work another chore;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I'm made to wait both hand and foot, my child I so adore;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I'm made to turn the other cheek. From cruelty I'm sore;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I'm made to cross the ocean shore to fight another war;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I've worked my fingers to the bone and built up my rapport;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I donate sacrificially - more offerings are in store;

But if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

I've still no flawless sacrifice. No works I can outpour;

And if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more.

My God had sent His Perfect One - and that I can't ignore.

So if I think I've sacrificed, I'd better think some more....

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org 

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God Never Fails 4-5-07

When it rains it pours, but God never fails....

The world crashes down when my trials abound -

the winds could fill the sails...

When it rains it pours, but God never fails....

The world crashes down when my trials abound -

as breezes turn into gales...

When it rains it pours, but God never fails....

The world crashes down when my trials abound -

when I think it's over, it hails...

When it rains it pours, but God never fails....

When they took Him down and removed His crown –

who cared about the old nails?

So who cares when it pours? My effort fails!

Now when I’m down, I turn over my frown -

as my storm in comparison pales…

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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In the Clouds 3-25-07

You ask why I am crying. So let me tell you why.
I was so very angry as I stared into the sky.

I lost my special mother and tears had filled my eyes.
I looked to God for answers but moisture blurred the skies.

I had only asked for answers - an emotional free ride.
I wanted Him to hold me - and keep me near His side.

I didn’t see the sunshine. Dark clouds hung over me.
I couldn’t feel His presence. I couldn’t begin to see….

But when I wiped away my tears, my thoughts were held in awe -
It held me captive for some time - for this is what I saw:

So clear and simple in the clouds - I now know why she died....
The sight of Jesus on the cross – in love, His arms held wide.

You ask why I am crying. I’m crying ‘cuz I’m glad –
I knew that she was everything - and thought was all I had.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Walk The Talk 3-22-07

Love is a tough word for men made of steel.
Some cannot say it - despite how they feel.
And way down inside, you'll find at the core,
that few love much higher than ostriches soar.

Some utter their love in flowers and smiles.
There are many words and so many styles.
Some share their feelings with tears in one eye,
while others share thoughts in endless supply....

But talk is so shallow - it's easier said,
than walking the talk, and giving instead.
When we're confronted with our simple trials,
do we drag our cross - and for how many miles?

A cross is a menace that scoffs in our ear.
We wish every time it would just disappear;
but if our love's real - and fills us inside,
A cross surely conquers when we are denied.

For there was a Man who lived long ago,
that gave so much more - than we'll ever know.
He shared with the children, women and men,
and taught us all how - to love once again

There wasn't a record of “fanciful” talk,
but rather, instead, of unselfish walk.
While prayers were sincere to His Father above,
mere words didn't finish His dutiful love.

He spoke not a word - defending His own,
and faithfully walked each step all alone.
We cannot imagine the pain He endured,
and from the soldiers, the scoffing He heard.

Mere words were spoken and all had seemed lost,
but actions spoke louder than two timbers crossed.
And love didn't lose to the cross in that war -
because Jesus yet lives and that cross is no more.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Depressions' Book 3-20-07

Are you feeling really cheery -

just like the men of old?

Or are you filled with sin's debris?

Just how's your story told?

Who writes the story of your life?

Who maps your many miles?

Who slashed your insides with a knife?

Who brings you down with trials?

It's always someone else's fault -

It's never ours to claim.

So go on curse - and then assault.

Your friends must be to blame....

Your life is in such disarray.

At times you're feeling blue.

Because you chose your selfish way,

blame must be placed on you.

With deep despair and sinful strife,

your insides churn and burn.

Is that the story of your life -

and you've no place to turn?

So many think they know it all,

they answer every whim.

But those who conquer big and small

have put their faith in Him.

Your whole life's story, who will write?

Who'll map your many miles?

Give God your pen, it's quite alright -

He'll bring you many smiles....

Several people read your book,

each day more print occurs -

so do you know the path you took?

Was roadway, His or yours?

It's your story, it's disclosed,

and every day it's read -

but when God flips the cover closed,

you'll be completely dead.

©2007 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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What's so special? 3-08-07

What's so special about a tree, without bright flowering buds to see?

What if it reached up to the sky - but imparted no beauty to the eye?

What's so special about a tree, without small birds chirping songs for me?

What if it had no living cells - nor rendered scents of unique smells?

What's so special about a tree, without any roots? Is that not key?

What if it had a trunk so tall - but yielded no juicy fruit each fall?

What's so special about a tree, that stands there dead for all to see?

What if the sunshine took its aim, but the shadow proved its simple frame?

What's so special about a tree, without ornaments' glistening spree?

What if it had no tinsel gold - and stood unparalleled, barren, cold?

What's so special about a tree, that held a life and saw it flee?

What if it held no life down in - but yet it held through thick and thin?

What's so special about a tree, that held One captive for you and me?

What if it charged the highest price - for the only, perfect sacrifice?

What's so special about a tree - so long ago lost? Say, what could it be?

Everything! For it had given - Jesus the place, where all sins were forgiven.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Grandma 2-12-07

Grownups seem so funny. They never seem to change.
‘Specially my ol’ grandma. She always acted strange.
Peculiar smells escaped out when she opened up her door.
And as I stepped into her house - heard creaking in the floor.

She seemed a bit hunched over. She wasn't very thin.
Her teeth would sometimes chatter when she moved her double chin.
She decorated very nice. A corner held the broom.
She'd have her nylon stockings hangin' ‘round the living room....

But God made grandma special. Her cooking, Heaven sent.
She hadn't much to offer but she really was content.
And she was always cooking with her hair back in a bun.
She always had her apron on – had little time for fun.

Sometimes I got in trouble taking cookies from her jar....
The crumbs would seem to mark my sin. I didn't get too far.
One day we had a party. She cried when she was glad.
She cried when she was happy too and cried when she was sad.

Once she claimed I was in sin. I asked her what she meant,
So she opened up her Bible and read a whole event.
I had so many questions that she took me by the hand,
She had so many answers that I couldn't understand.

She said God loved so deeply and - death held the only key,
So back behind the bloodstains Jesus had to die for me.
Maybe sin is so disgusting that - love has to be unfair,
And maybe that's why grandma cried - when she knelt down in prayer.

When I got hurt, she kissed it well. She was the "best-est" nurse,
Then she said, "Be careful" quoting yet another verse.
She often looked so busy. She sometimes looked quite weak;
But when I left, she always had the time to kiss my cheek.

I miss my grandma very much. She died some time ago.
But when she spoke of Jesus, oh, her face was all aglow.
Now when I close my eyes I see that same familiar face,
Reminding me of Jesus and God's everlasting grace.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Works 2-11-07

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I'm so weary I can't stand
to fight it anymore.
My face - I bury in my hands.
I fall flat on the floor.

All truthfulness is in Your court.
My arguments all fail.
I work hard but fall so short -
touching your Holy Grail.

I worked my fingers to the bone.
You did not grant my wish.
And without water on flat stones,
I flop just like a fish.

I tried to earn it, sun to sun.
My tasks would not apply.
A tear, from every job I'd done,
I caused there in Your eye.

Tasks that came I did not shun.
In fact, I didn't brag,
but every work that I had done -
was but a filthy rag.

Sometimes I thought I felt that crown,
and pulled myself way up,
but as I looked, I had to frown,
I could not hold Your cup.

I fasted, sacrificed some more,
and lay in massive pain.
My clothes I tore. I lost the war,
my works were all in vain.

So now I weep, fall on my face
in desperation, misery....
and on the ground I take my place
and cry my prayer to thee....

"Our Father who art in Heaven,
God of grace and mercy,
You knew this soul was lost back when,
I fell so far from thee....

Your love melts the coldest ice,
You're always in control.
You sent the perfect sacrifice
so save this poor lambs soul.

Dear Shepherd, You are very strong.
Help me - I'm am weak.
For years I've been so very wrong.
I'm humbled. Hear me speak....

Forgive me Lord, for thinking I
could work my way to You.
You knew back then - I couldn't buy,
the work You came to do.

My sins, my work will not erase.
My life, I cannot gloss.
And all my work will not replace,
Your grace there on the cross."

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
ganderpoems.org

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OUR TRUE NEED 2-10-07

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We don't need a job or new tires for the car.

We don't need vacations to travel afar....

We don't need more money, power, or fame.

And we don't need to know who won what game.

We don't need a furnace to heat our new houses.

We don't need a diamond to buy our spouses.

We don't need potatoes, gravy and meat.

And we do not need to go out to eat.

We don't need more presents for under the tree.

We don't need to "buy one and get one free".

We don't need to rake all the leaves from our yards.

And we don't need more charges on credit cards.

You might think this poem a little bit odd,

But what we do need - is more faith in God.

Put it all in perspective, no need to discuss....

We need more of Jesus - and a lot less of us.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Hand In Hand 2-4-07

Grace and Faith go hand in hand,
As a button bound by thread;
As hands create a handshake,
Or a man and woman wed.

Grace is mercy. Grace is love.
It's why He came to die.
Grace descends to even me
It's something I can't buy.

Faith, my shield that leads me on,
Is essential to possess;
To extinguish all the arrows,
to go forth and profess.

Faith is what I need to have,
Grace is what He's done;
They're not works by any means
But truths I cannot shun.

By Grace He reaches down to me,
Through Faith I understand;
He leads me by still waters,
As we walk hand in hand….

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

Ephesians 2:8 (NASB) “For by grace you have been saved through faith...”

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Follow Me 1-29-07

I stood out on a sandy beach - waves crashing on the shore,
I wondered why I was alone. The waves hit with a roar,
I knew the fish kept close in schools, way out there in the sea -
and then I heard a still small voice, "Have faith, and you will see..."

I wandered by our big, old oak. Its branches, breezes sway.
I wondered why I was alone. I heard birds chirp away.
I knew that birds stayed closely by, protected in that tree -
and then I heard a still small voice, "Have faith, and you will see..."

I sat there by my window – heard noises that were made..
I wondered why I was alone as all the children played.
I knew that children in their way, stayed close and played so free -
and then I heard a still small voice, "Have faith, and you will see..."

My teary eyes were buried in my favorite chair, so soft.
I wondered why I was alone as prayers floated aloft.
I prayed. My trembling hands clasp tight - was blind, it couldn't be -
and then I heard a still small voice, "Have faith, and you will see..."

I waited for an answer but my patience had run out.
I wondered why I was alone. Proof verified all doubt.
Jesus, just before the cross, was denied His final plea -
again, I heard that still small voice, "Have faith, and you will see..."

I'm gone, but not so much alone. I'm here with Heaven's King.
Our Savior sits beside Him! Can you hear the angels sing?
My hands I hold up, way up high! Heaven's riches I now see!
So listen to His still small voice, "Have faith, come follow me."

©2007 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Psalm 23:4 (KJ) “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

Rev. 2:10 (KJ) “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."

Our Crossroad 1-28-07

I'm always at a crossroad. Decisions make it so.
My head spins in circles but - I choose which way I go.
The world flies past every day. They race both to and fro.
They seem to know just what they want, but do they really know?

They push, and shove, and like a bull - they charge with all their hate,
-Struggling on mountains - and in valleys under weight.
Then they pull around sharp corners - their rocky burdens great.
They lie, steal and murder - but to that I can't relate.

Many times it's their entire fault. The edge they like to skirt.
They lean way out but want to be - protected from all hurt.
At times they work through dinner but their work still tastes like dirt,
And when it comes to getting paid, demand their full dessert.

Each road leads to other burdens as all had led to Rome.
Ways deceive with wealth and pleasure. Through deserts some will comb.
But no matter which way they turn, we know they'll always roam.
And carrying their burdens on - they'll never find their home.

Some don't find an answer so - decisions they won't make,
Yet doing nothing is but a - decision of mistake.
They cannot sleep through heartache and - they cannot take a break,
For each and every morning problems greet when they awake.

Once I crawled inside of me, collapsing in my skin,
Yet couldn't push the world out as I crawled back deep within.
The answers not inside of us, so now we must begin,
For what is our direction when our pity draws us in?

All three hundred sixty degrees, our decisions are no joke.
From our hub of life we see and test our every spoke.
Although the way is not so clear because of lies and smoke,
There’s One who will cut through it all. He does for honest folk.

We must pray and then step up to face our flaming arrow.
He leads us by still waters as we walk the straight and narrow.
I look down on one side - to streams of pain and sorrow.
Way up the other, burdens' rocks - yet He protects the sparrow.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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In His Sandals 1-20-07

I cannot serve two masters. I serve, but only one,

for if I love some sinfulness, I hate God's only Son.

Could I walk in His sandals? Do I really understand?

Of what would it encompass? Of what would it demand?

Could I put up with some abuse, and could I humbly be,

a whipping board of insults, for all to scoff at me?

Could I withstand a whipping? Tell me, would I know,

the pain down in my open wounds, torn flesh from every blow?

Could I, but bear the privilege - to be a king renowned,

my face stained in bloody streaks from such a thorny crown?

And would I know the cost of love, our God's most precious grace,

or would I simply think of me and hate the human race?

Could I endure the anguish then, as ropes bind hands and feet,

so knotted up so tightly that - I'd give in to defeat?

There on my back, could I stare at - a spike set on my skin,

then watch them take a heavy stone and slam it deep within?

Oh, I would know what's coming next.  I'd clench my other fist.

Could I endure another nail- or would I just resist?

Then tortured even further, could pain be so complete,

when to the cross I'm nailed with- another through my feet?

Slowly ropes raise cross and I. The base slides in the hole.

Then in ghastly, horrid pain, would that jerk shake my soul?

So there I'd hang, alone up high- for all to mock and hate.

Could I endure the anguish then? Can I, to that relate?

Could I survive for several hours in pain and endless shame -

and would I ask forgiveness for the ones that I could blame?

And could I die for ALL the world- their sinful sacrifice -

and know that few would love me? Would that, for me, suffice?

And would my final miracle then call for heavenly hosts -

or would I yield to Father's will and then give up the ghost?

No, hate and anger would not end.  The sword would pierce my side....

Oh, would I slip away and hide? Which way would I decide?

His sandals are too large to fill. His time, so long ago,

and Heaven- much too far away, while I'm down here below.

But could I wear His sandals- if I was called upon,

and are my trials greater that- I'd gladly put His on?

He demands my little faith. He holds no speck of wrath,

when He's a lamp unto my feet- a light unto my path.

Yes, I wear His sandals- for I've been called upon

and faithful every morning now, I slip them boldly on.

This poem may explain it- but who really understands?

For every sin that we commit puts nails through Jesus' hands.

We cannot serve two masters. We serve, but only one.

We have to hate all sinfulness, to love God's only Son.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

Luke 16:10 (NASB)
"He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much;
and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.”

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Grace 1-18-07

Faults have consequence - always entwine.
My faults are many. My sins all mine.
If I could forget. But I know not how
and failures still haunt me, even now.

Always stalking, collecting many,
the burdens I bear - they are aplenty.
Even one burden that's heavy and great,
crushes me totally under its weight.

What have I done? And what is the cure?
My guilt is too heavy. I cannot endure....
I could change it - make it all disappear-
if I could relive each wayward year.

I cannot go back, but if i could,
would my new actions be perfectly good?
I guess I know that this miserable soul
could not relive it, to make me whole.

I'm all torn apart - from limb to limb.
My hope is but gone, my life bleak and grim.
My head is spinning. Emotions are tossed.
Oh, woe am I – I am totally lost!

If the world could smell my putrid old blood,
they would drag my body through all the mud.
And If I was judged by truth and jury,
they'd hang me quick in their own fury.

And if the judge was fair, cold and just,
was shown my failures - rot, odor and rust;
he'd throw the whole world of death down at me,
and hang me high from the tallest tree.

I'd be happy and sure would not run-
if I could wish it completely undone!
But I cannot change a single thing,
I must sacrifice. I will now bring-

all my possessions, all my good stuff,
my house, my car, my job... is that enough?
Take my wealth, put it all under key.
Is that not enough? Please just agree.

No, even that is so insufficient,
for I am so lost - ugly, deficient;
No work I can do, will fix up my past,
nor heal one scar of failures sharp blast.

Really, the answer is not mine to give,
I can't change history. I cannot relive....
Please! My burden, could someone now lift?
It would be the greatest, most special gift!

Who could love so much - to take such a loss,
and die Himself - on a rugged old cross?
The answer was gifted from one loving face-
from God's act of mercy and glorious grace.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Romans 11:6 (NASB) “But if it is by grace, it is no longer on the basis of works, otherwise grace is no longer grace.

Faith 1-10-07

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At first my faith was in my mother, and her two loving hands.
But then I had faith in my father, in his wisdom, work and plans.

Then I put faith in the whole wide world, it's size so large and immense;
But then when I learned of its problems, I built up my little fence.

So then I put faith in someone else, I'd know and always agree;
Faith that I had in abundance - was in honest, trustworthy me.

But I couldn't find all the answers, so in others I'd confer;
Because two heads are better than one, we all then should concur.

So I put my faith in our Church, for I started long ago;
And I spent my time in fellowship, but I didn't seem to grow.

As I circled in deep despair, lost in my lonely, selfish groans;
Determined to find something; to heal my ever, fragile bones.

I put my faith in all my works, for without it, faith is dead;
But again I failed in all my works, so looked to grace instead.

And I put all my faith in grace alone - which was the final blow;
As I sat back expecting - but never once prepared to grow.

It never seems to cross my mind, that my chair might soon collapse;
But yet I question God in prayer. Do I trust Him? Well, perhaps....

Age and wisdom has surely proved that I can't do it on my own.
I've always had faith in something else, but now it's in God alone.

©2007 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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The Missing Ingredient 1-3-07

God, the covenant, and man – the law in stone was cast.

But broke, all men, the covenant before Moses breathed his last.

A new covenant began, that man might touch the stars.

But man would break the newest one and needed Jesus' scars.

Now what are we to do today? Sufficient is God's grace.

So what ingredient is missing as we sit here in disgrace?

To fulfill God's newest covenant takes more than prayer and song.

And "grace believing's" all and good - but by itself is wrong.

For even demons all believe! In cringing truth, they shutter,

So we've researched 'theology' and other endless clutter.

Has every soul on Earth been saved? Was assurance known by Saul?

Did someone cure his blindness and was his name changed to Paul?

Decision, yes, we had made. Of course our works are dead,

so now upon foundation's rock let's move 'belief' ahead.

God performed His gracious act. It was by Him alone.

By grace, ye are saved through faith. So may our faith be shown.

Faith is the missing ingredient, in God's covenant with man,

from demons, we are separate, completing His full plan.

Do not let Satan deceive you blowing feelings to and fro.

The world grabs for grace alone, but they need faith also.

Remember, Jesus healed the sick. Their faith had made them well.

They then went out and told the world. What stories they could tell!

Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.

We must throw out all other gods - on Jesus’ name must lean.

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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Romans 3: 21-27

21 But now apart from the Law the righteousness of God has been manifested,
being witnessed by the Law and the Prophets,
22 even the righteousness of God through faith in Jesus Christ for all those who believe;
for there is no distinction;
23 for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God,
24 being justified as a gift by His grace through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus;
25 whom God displayed publicly as a propitiation in His blood through faith.
This was to demonstrate His righteousness,
because in the forbearance of God He passed over the sins previously committed;
26 for the demonstration, I say, of His righteousness at the present time,
so that He would be just and the justifier of the one who has faith in Jesus.
27 Where then is boasting?
It is excluded By what kind of law? Of works?
No, but by a law of faith.

The Contrast 1-1-07

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Man is not God - so many are lost,
and it's not just a matter of odds....
When creation rejects the Creator,
it proves we're men - not gods.

The Creator begat His own earthly birth,
His creation cut a tree for the cross.
His faithfulness carried that burdensome tree,
and our selfishness rode on the loss.

His humbleness exposed - first a manger,
but our pride buried Him. He was dead.
His wrath - into swine - removed demons,
but our anger poked thorns in His head.

His generosity drew multitudes to Him,
but our greed nailed hands held wide.
His knowledge pierced the Pharisee's lies,
but our gossip pierced through His side.

In loving kindness, He cried, "Abba Father!"
but our hate mocked His sweat drops of blood.
His mercy gave paradise to one alongside,
but our sin took His life like a flood.

His power, from death, removed the stone,
but our weakness moves from mask to mask.
His peace resides up in Heaven.
Now the war in our souls is at task.

God is perfect, sinless, true.
While creation wanders lost;
many are called, but few are chosen,
yet for His mercy and grace, no cost.

He paved the way through thick and thin,
so that we, in Him, can cleave.
Grace can save every man from sin -
if we - through faith - believe!

©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
ganderpoems.org

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That Special Tree 12-06

When I was nine, we all were poor -

lived in a house with wooden floor.

At eight o'clock the clock would chime

and then I knew that it was time.

It was okay; I had but three -

Christmas presents just for me!

No gold, frankincense, and myrrh –

but ‘funner’ toys I would prefer!

I snatched the first one - it was small,

tore the wrapping, threw it all.

Pulled back the tape, opened it.

I then plopped down in one big fit.

In the bottom of the box,

I saw sand and a few rocks.

A note said, "Son - I know you care

about the Magi way back there."

They traveled far through desert sand,

not knowing where the star would stand.

It stopped above a stable where -

a baby laid in loving prayer."

As I looked up not very far

on top our tree we had a star....

I sat below that pretty tree,

all decorated, just so for me.

The second present – beautiful,

but what'd I find? -A ball of wool.

The note said, "Son, some shepherds came.

They glorified and praised His name.

“Our house is comfy and so warm,

no chills come in from snow or storm;

But not the stable there of old -

it was drafty, dusty, somewhat cold..."

But now the biggest one of all -

the third and last and oh, so tall;

I carefully unwrapped the bow -

with widened smile my face aglow.

I pulled the wrapping off a bit -

to read the box for what I'd get.

The box was simple. Just plain brown,

so then I tore the wrapping down.

Anticipation turned to shock,

as I spied in that bigger box.

I froze in full bewilderment.

I didn't know quite what it meant.

For it was empty. Nothing there!

Just a present full of air!

Except for yet another note,

signed by daddy - here's his quote:

"Baby Jesus, our present.

In His service, His intent,

He took our burdens, sin and strife,

so you might have eternal life.

Empty? No. This box is not -

and never will its contents rot.

This box is full. Don't think it's odd.

It's filled with love. A gift from God."

Then I woke up - was just a dream!

It wasn't daddy's funny scheme!

So many presents - many mine.

I put God off. There wasn't time!

First I'd enjoy my favorite day,

Full of candy, fun and play.

So many days - it finally came!

Christmas day - so I took aim!

I scrambled off my bed and ran,

down the hall with my big plan.

The tree looked tall. It seemed so far -

and way on top a big, bright star.

And in my socks across the floors,

I slid along past all the doors.

Down that hall into the room,

were many presents I'd consume.

The tree I ran to down the hall -

was somewhat different, somewhat small.

And I was caught quite unaware

as I stopped beneath our star up there.

Just like the wise men from afar,

that followed their revealing star.

Above the stable where it’d stay,

where donkeys stood and Jesus lay.

I could have sworn up there on top -

I thought I heard, "You're here, now stop."

But not above a stable's top -

this time below our tree I’d stop.

Not like the tree of long ago

but bright with ornaments aglow.

Not heavy timbers tied across,

where Jesus died upon the cross.

When only He could make me glad,

I wanted gifts from mom and dad.

Oh, those presents full of toys,

I ripped apart and made some noise.

“Dear God and Jesus - wait a bit.

I’ll play awhile and then I’ll quit.”

How awful, selfish, I became

as I trampled Jesus' name.

But later on, I humbly bowed,

on that floor not one bit proud.

I cried a lot. I cried out loud –

and let him cleanse my sinful cloud.

So through me see that special Star -

always near, not off afar.

-Still upon that special tree,

where Jesus died for you and me.

©2006 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

http://www.ganderpoems.org/

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