They gathered around the table
To celebrate Thanksgiving Day.
While joining their hands together,
They then bowed their heads to pray.
Her father asked each one to share
Some way God had blessed them that year,
And one by one they offered thanks
For their fam'ily and friends so dear.
Our prayers then started with Grandpa
Who said, "God, I am thankful for
Another year with loved ones dear,
And I'm thankful for one year more."
Then Grandma said, "Ive been so blessed;
You've provided my ev'ry need;
For each one around this table,
I am so grateful, Lord, indeed."
My uncle shared his gratitude
That God answered a special prayer
And saved his soul when someone told
How all of his sins Christ did bear.
My aunt thanked God for His healing,
Restoring her body to health,
God's gift was something more priceless,
More than gold or all the earth's wealth.
Mom said, "Dear God, I'm so grateful
For all that you daily provide.
You're there each step of our journey;
O'er mountains and valleys You guide."
Dad thanked God for the empty chair,
For my brother who chose to go
Serve our country and give his life
For the freedoms that we all know.
When I was left to close this prayer,
I brushed tears away from my cheek,
For I o'erflowed with gratitude
And I found it so hard to speak.
"Oh, thank you, God, I am so blessed,
And my heart does so overflow
With mercy and with grace from you
And for Your love I've come to know."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
OUR SPECIAL ANGEL (Baby Girl Dedication Poem)
Our special angel
Sent from above;
Sweet gentle spirit
Heart full of love.
Of all God's blessings,
You are so rare,
A treasure from Heav'n,
An answer to prayer.
Our hearts overflow
From joy you bring;
Your smile brings laughter,
Makes our hearts sing.
You are so special,
One of a kind;
Only in Heaven
Could we e'er find
Someone to love us
The way you do.
We are so thankful
God sent us you.
Copyrighted by Betty Benson Robertson and Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Sent from above;
Sweet gentle spirit
Heart full of love.
Of all God's blessings,
You are so rare,
A treasure from Heav'n,
An answer to prayer.
Our hearts overflow
From joy you bring;
Your smile brings laughter,
Makes our hearts sing.
You are so special,
One of a kind;
Only in Heaven
Could we e'er find
Someone to love us
The way you do.
We are so thankful
God sent us you.
Copyrighted by Betty Benson Robertson and Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
REMEMBER THIS OLD TREE
A stately tree stood by the stream
Where sparkling waters flowed;
Her trunk was gnarled and badly scarred,
Her branches deeply bowed.
For many years she'd stayed the storms,
Withstood the windy blasts,
Her roots, sunk deep beneath the soil,
Tenaciously held fast.
At times she swayed so furiously
She thought her boughs would break;
The wind did heave her to and fro,
The ground did firmly shake.
Yet further down her roots did grow,
Her anchor firmly set,
She raised her branches to the sky
Her praises to beget.
For each new storm that came her way
Forced her to take strong hold,
And all the trials and stormy blasts
Caused her to grow fourfold.
For it's through life's tribulations
Our faith takes root and grows;
And when shaken by life's trials,
God's strength He then bestows.
So when the trials of life befall,
Remember this old tree;
And thank God for each storm that comes
Which serves to strengthen thee.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Where sparkling waters flowed;
Her trunk was gnarled and badly scarred,
Her branches deeply bowed.
For many years she'd stayed the storms,
Withstood the windy blasts,
Her roots, sunk deep beneath the soil,
Tenaciously held fast.
At times she swayed so furiously
She thought her boughs would break;
The wind did heave her to and fro,
The ground did firmly shake.
Yet further down her roots did grow,
Her anchor firmly set,
She raised her branches to the sky
Her praises to beget.
For each new storm that came her way
Forced her to take strong hold,
And all the trials and stormy blasts
Caused her to grow fourfold.
For it's through life's tribulations
Our faith takes root and grows;
And when shaken by life's trials,
God's strength He then bestows.
So when the trials of life befall,
Remember this old tree;
And thank God for each storm that comes
Which serves to strengthen thee.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MY DAILY PRAYER
With the rising of newborn sun,
Before my day has e’er begun,
I bow my head in quiet prayer
And feel Your presence with me there.
I pray that You will live through me,
That others will see Christ in me,
That they may feast on Living Bread
And by Your Word be richly fed.
Lord, through an act of kindness done
May it point others to Your Son;
When they’re in need, to just be there
To let them know how much You care.
Let everything I do and say
Bring glory to Your Name today
That someone who is lost in sin
Find forgiveness and peace within.
So, from my cup, Lord, let me pour
Every drop till there’s no more
To quench the thirst of some lost soul,
That they find You and be made whole.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Before my day has e’er begun,
I bow my head in quiet prayer
And feel Your presence with me there.
I pray that You will live through me,
That others will see Christ in me,
That they may feast on Living Bread
And by Your Word be richly fed.
Lord, through an act of kindness done
May it point others to Your Son;
When they’re in need, to just be there
To let them know how much You care.
Let everything I do and say
Bring glory to Your Name today
That someone who is lost in sin
Find forgiveness and peace within.
So, from my cup, Lord, let me pour
Every drop till there’s no more
To quench the thirst of some lost soul,
That they find You and be made whole.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THE WIDOW'S MITE
The widow reached into her jar,
For her last two coins to take,
For today she’d visit the temple,
And an offering she would make.
Though it was all the widow had
To supply her daily bread,
She trusted in her Father’s love;
By His hand she would be fed.
She’d gladly give her last two coins
And would sacrifice her all,
Though in contrast to what some would give,
Her offering seemed so small.
At the temple she caught the eye
Of Jesus as He smiled
When she offered God her two small coins
With faith of a little child.
Then Jesus drew His disciples near
And to them was heard to say,
“This widow gave more than the rest,
For she gave her all today.”
So when we give our very best,
Though small like the widow’s mite,
The Lord will bless us in return,
For it’s precious in His sight.
God has proven that He will bless
And supply our ev’ry need
When we give Him the best we have
With faith of a mustard seed.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
For her last two coins to take,
For today she’d visit the temple,
And an offering she would make.
Though it was all the widow had
To supply her daily bread,
She trusted in her Father’s love;
By His hand she would be fed.
She’d gladly give her last two coins
And would sacrifice her all,
Though in contrast to what some would give,
Her offering seemed so small.
At the temple she caught the eye
Of Jesus as He smiled
When she offered God her two small coins
With faith of a little child.
Then Jesus drew His disciples near
And to them was heard to say,
“This widow gave more than the rest,
For she gave her all today.”
So when we give our very best,
Though small like the widow’s mite,
The Lord will bless us in return,
For it’s precious in His sight.
God has proven that He will bless
And supply our ev’ry need
When we give Him the best we have
With faith of a mustard seed.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WHAT CAN I DO?
My eyes were opened
And I could see
A lost world,
Lord, in need of Thee.
Vast multitudes
Seeking to find
Life's answers
And true peace of mind.
Souls stumbling
In dark of night,
Crying for
The want of light.
And so I asked,
"What can I do
To lead lost souls,
Lord, home to You?"
"While some can go
To share my Word,"
God said, "Just give
So My message is heard."
Many will go
To a distant land;
You'll partner with them
Hand in hand.
"Bring the full tithe
And watch as I
Your gift will take
And multiply.
"Just give your best,
Watch what I'll do,
Lost souls will find
My Son through you.
"My light will shine,
The blind will see
And find their Way
Back home to Me."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And I could see
A lost world,
Lord, in need of Thee.
Vast multitudes
Seeking to find
Life's answers
And true peace of mind.
Souls stumbling
In dark of night,
Crying for
The want of light.
And so I asked,
"What can I do
To lead lost souls,
Lord, home to You?"
"While some can go
To share my Word,"
God said, "Just give
So My message is heard."
Many will go
To a distant land;
You'll partner with them
Hand in hand.
"Bring the full tithe
And watch as I
Your gift will take
And multiply.
"Just give your best,
Watch what I'll do,
Lost souls will find
My Son through you.
"My light will shine,
The blind will see
And find their Way
Back home to Me."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WE HONOR FREEDOM'S HEROES
We honor freedom's heroes
Who have served our country well,
For they represent true courage
And their lives a story tell.
For on the land and air and sea
Our soldiers serve proud and fair;
And wherever freedom's challenged,
You will find these heroes there.
Far distant lands and foreign soil
Bear deep footprints in the sod
Of our heroes who have ventured
To stand tall and proud for God.
They're a symbol of true valor,
And a monument of grace,
Steadfast they've preserved and fought,
Freedom's enemies to face.
They surrendered their own safety
In exchange for freedom's price;
They knew the debt was costly,
For their lives they'd sacrifice.
We owe these heroes gratitude,
For our freedom is not free.
Courageously they paid in full
Debt's price for our liberty.
Let's offer them our sincere praise,
For we'd never know today
The precious freedoms we enjoy
If they'd never paid our way.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
(Written in honor of my father, Clifford Johnson, a veteran who served in WWII and the Korean War.)
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Who have served our country well,
For they represent true courage
And their lives a story tell.
For on the land and air and sea
Our soldiers serve proud and fair;
And wherever freedom's challenged,
You will find these heroes there.
Far distant lands and foreign soil
Bear deep footprints in the sod
Of our heroes who have ventured
To stand tall and proud for God.
They're a symbol of true valor,
And a monument of grace,
Steadfast they've preserved and fought,
Freedom's enemies to face.
They surrendered their own safety
In exchange for freedom's price;
They knew the debt was costly,
For their lives they'd sacrifice.
We owe these heroes gratitude,
For our freedom is not free.
Courageously they paid in full
Debt's price for our liberty.
Let's offer them our sincere praise,
For we'd never know today
The precious freedoms we enjoy
If they'd never paid our way.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
(Written in honor of my father, Clifford Johnson, a veteran who served in WWII and the Korean War.)
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WHAT'S IN YOUR HAND?
What’s in your hand that God can use
To bring Him glory and praise?
When you offer it to the Lord
He’ll use it in special ways.
Moses offered a shepherd’s staff
God used to part the sea,
And when he struck the desert rock,
Water poured out freely.
Your hand may hold an instrument
That you can play and sing
A song of praise and worship
To glorify the King.
Or in your hand may rest a pen
That you can use to write
Words of great encouragement
To bring a friend God’s light.
Maybe you hold a piece of bread,
A cup of water, too.
When they’re offered to one in need,
God will bless through you.
Though you may look down at your hands
And nothing is found there,
When you lift them to the Lord,
He’ll hear and answer prayer.
You may think my gift’s too small,
But it matters not the size.
When God looks at your open hand,
Your gift He multiplies.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
To bring Him glory and praise?
When you offer it to the Lord
He’ll use it in special ways.
Moses offered a shepherd’s staff
God used to part the sea,
And when he struck the desert rock,
Water poured out freely.
Your hand may hold an instrument
That you can play and sing
A song of praise and worship
To glorify the King.
Or in your hand may rest a pen
That you can use to write
Words of great encouragement
To bring a friend God’s light.
Maybe you hold a piece of bread,
A cup of water, too.
When they’re offered to one in need,
God will bless through you.
Though you may look down at your hands
And nothing is found there,
When you lift them to the Lord,
He’ll hear and answer prayer.
You may think my gift’s too small,
But it matters not the size.
When God looks at your open hand,
Your gift He multiplies.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THE MASTER WEAVER
I watched the Master Weaver sit
Before His loom one day
While weaving back and forth dark strands
Of black and ashen gray.
So steadfastly He wove the threads,
Gently placing every one;
I wondered what He had in mind
When His tapestry was done.
I could not see the pattern then
The Weaver had in mind,
But I knew when it was finished
It would have Divine design.
For this Weaver was an artist
Whose works stood on display,
Each one a masterpiece to see
For all who passed their way.
Something so very beautiful
From threads as dark as night,
A true heavenly creation
Emerged before my sight.
He said, “This is your life, My child,”
As I stood there in dismay,
Of how He used each darkened thread,
And I bowed my head to pray.
“Forgive me, Lord, for questioning
The trials of the night,
For now I see You had a plan
Concealed then from my sight.
God said, “I know My plans for you:
To prosper and to bless,
To give to you eternal hope
And a life of happiness.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Before His loom one day
While weaving back and forth dark strands
Of black and ashen gray.
So steadfastly He wove the threads,
Gently placing every one;
I wondered what He had in mind
When His tapestry was done.
I could not see the pattern then
The Weaver had in mind,
But I knew when it was finished
It would have Divine design.
For this Weaver was an artist
Whose works stood on display,
Each one a masterpiece to see
For all who passed their way.
Something so very beautiful
From threads as dark as night,
A true heavenly creation
Emerged before my sight.
He said, “This is your life, My child,”
As I stood there in dismay,
Of how He used each darkened thread,
And I bowed my head to pray.
“Forgive me, Lord, for questioning
The trials of the night,
For now I see You had a plan
Concealed then from my sight.
God said, “I know My plans for you:
To prosper and to bless,
To give to you eternal hope
And a life of happiness.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WATER WALKER
Oh, Lord, I want to step outside
Of the safety of my boat,
And take a daring leap of faith
Trusting I will stay afloat.
Above doubt’s waves that toss and turn
And will try my heart to fail,
When focused on my Savior’s eyes,
In Your strength I will prevail.
I’d rather step out of my boat
Where it takes true faith to trod,
Than miss the blessings I’ll receive
Water walking with You, God.
For when I stay within my boat,
Then my faith will never grow.
I’d rather step out on the waves
Where the faithful dare to go.
For nothing is impossible
When my eyes remain on You,
Listening as Your voice says, “Come,
Watch what I through you will do.”
When doubters say, “You can’t go there.
It’s never been done before.”
I’ll tell them as I leave my boat,
“I will meet you on the shore.”
A water walker I will be;
I will trust You as I pray
And leave my boat of safety, Lord,
As I walk in faith today.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Of the safety of my boat,
And take a daring leap of faith
Trusting I will stay afloat.
Above doubt’s waves that toss and turn
And will try my heart to fail,
When focused on my Savior’s eyes,
In Your strength I will prevail.
I’d rather step out of my boat
Where it takes true faith to trod,
Than miss the blessings I’ll receive
Water walking with You, God.
For when I stay within my boat,
Then my faith will never grow.
I’d rather step out on the waves
Where the faithful dare to go.
For nothing is impossible
When my eyes remain on You,
Listening as Your voice says, “Come,
Watch what I through you will do.”
When doubters say, “You can’t go there.
It’s never been done before.”
I’ll tell them as I leave my boat,
“I will meet you on the shore.”
A water walker I will be;
I will trust You as I pray
And leave my boat of safety, Lord,
As I walk in faith today.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
TREASURES IN JARS OF CLAY
Her face bore a radiant smile
As she walked the dusty road,
And you could hear her song of praise
As she pulled her heavy load.
I noticed as she passed my way
An old jar made out of clay.
She cradled it so lovingly
As she walked along that day.
So often she would stop to rest
And would greet each passerby,
And as they asked about her jar
With a smile she would reply:
“When as a child my only son
Made this jar for me one day.
He formed it with his little hands
As a gift for my birthday.
“He said, ‘I’ve made this jar for you
To show to you my love.
I’ve asked the Lord to bless you, Mom,
As I prayed to God above.’
“Then ev’ry year on my birthday
He’d hold the jar and pray
Into the narrow opening
A blessing for my day.
“His treasures filled this earthen jar
That he formed from simple clay.
And, oh, how I have cherished it
More than words can ever say.
“You see, my son, a soldier, fought
In a war across the sea,
And gave his life a gift for all
With his last words shared for me.
“He said, ‘We have these treasures, Mom,
That nothing can e’er destroy,
For God’s Spirit lives within us
And I know true peace and joy.
‘The old clay jar I made for you
Contains whispers of my love,
True treasures in a jar of clay
Till we meet in Heaven above.’ ”
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
As she walked the dusty road,
And you could hear her song of praise
As she pulled her heavy load.
I noticed as she passed my way
An old jar made out of clay.
She cradled it so lovingly
As she walked along that day.
So often she would stop to rest
And would greet each passerby,
And as they asked about her jar
With a smile she would reply:
“When as a child my only son
Made this jar for me one day.
He formed it with his little hands
As a gift for my birthday.
“He said, ‘I’ve made this jar for you
To show to you my love.
I’ve asked the Lord to bless you, Mom,
As I prayed to God above.’
“Then ev’ry year on my birthday
He’d hold the jar and pray
Into the narrow opening
A blessing for my day.
“His treasures filled this earthen jar
That he formed from simple clay.
And, oh, how I have cherished it
More than words can ever say.
“You see, my son, a soldier, fought
In a war across the sea,
And gave his life a gift for all
With his last words shared for me.
“He said, ‘We have these treasures, Mom,
That nothing can e’er destroy,
For God’s Spirit lives within us
And I know true peace and joy.
‘The old clay jar I made for you
Contains whispers of my love,
True treasures in a jar of clay
Till we meet in Heaven above.’ ”
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
JUST LIKE DAD (Father's Day)
The little boy now watched his dad
And every move he'd make.
When his father would take a step,
A step he would also take.
So when the father sat to rest,
The little boy would sit, too.
His eyes were firmly fixed on him
To see what his dad would do.
When his father bowed down to pray,
His son knelt close by his side.
The father was so deeply moved
He turned heavenward and cried.
"Dear Father, may I be like You,
Watching ev'ry move You make,
Imitating all that You do
And never Your side forsake.
"For my son's also watching me,
Imitating all I do.
So, may I be an example
That points Him, Father, to You."
The little boy then said a prayer,
"Thank you, dear Father above
For giving me my daddy here
Who shows me daily Your love.
"Bless him now and hear his prayer
And please hear my prayer, too,
Because I want to be like him,
For he's taught me to love you."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And every move he'd make.
When his father would take a step,
A step he would also take.
So when the father sat to rest,
The little boy would sit, too.
His eyes were firmly fixed on him
To see what his dad would do.
When his father bowed down to pray,
His son knelt close by his side.
The father was so deeply moved
He turned heavenward and cried.
"Dear Father, may I be like You,
Watching ev'ry move You make,
Imitating all that You do
And never Your side forsake.
"For my son's also watching me,
Imitating all I do.
So, may I be an example
That points Him, Father, to You."
The little boy then said a prayer,
"Thank you, dear Father above
For giving me my daddy here
Who shows me daily Your love.
"Bless him now and hear his prayer
And please hear my prayer, too,
Because I want to be like him,
For he's taught me to love you."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
JUST A DROP OF KINDNESS
It takes just a drop of kindness
That's drawn from the well of hope,
To encourage and to uplift
And renew one's strength to cope.
For when thirsty souls are hurting,
We can show them that we care,
For with just a drop of kindness
We can quench their deep despair.
For when someone's heart is lonely
And they feel that no one cares,
Just a drop of hope will gladden
As we lift them up in prayer.
Like the dew in early morning
Bathes the dry and thirsty sod,
Gentle drops of loving kindness
Renew hope when blessed by God.
As our drops of hope are showered,
We will look around and see
Lovely flow'rs of joy and gladness,
Yielding blooms of rare beauty.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
That's drawn from the well of hope,
To encourage and to uplift
And renew one's strength to cope.
For when thirsty souls are hurting,
We can show them that we care,
For with just a drop of kindness
We can quench their deep despair.
For when someone's heart is lonely
And they feel that no one cares,
Just a drop of hope will gladden
As we lift them up in prayer.
Like the dew in early morning
Bathes the dry and thirsty sod,
Gentle drops of loving kindness
Renew hope when blessed by God.
As our drops of hope are showered,
We will look around and see
Lovely flow'rs of joy and gladness,
Yielding blooms of rare beauty.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A SACRIFICIAL OFFERING
Rumors had traveled so quickly,
And her heart was filled with fear,
For whisperings of tragic news
Spread that Christ's end was soon near.
As jealousy and hatred grew,
Evil men plotted to kill
Her precious Lord by nailing Him
To a cross on Calv'ry's hill.
She had seen her Lord heal the sick,
And blind eyes were made to see;
Lepers were cleansed--the lame could walk.
Son of God, no less, was He.
Her heart was moved with compassion
As she wiped away a tear;
She clasped her alabaster jar,
For her mission now was clear.
The man called Simon the Leper,
So well-known both far and wide,
After Jesus arrived in town,
Had invited Him inside.
So she took her priceless ointment,
And in haste without delay
Went to where Christ was reclining
At a table on that day.
She poured the priceless perfume out
With abandon o'er His head.
Her sacrificial gift of love
Filled the room and quickly spread.
Rebuked by Christ's blind disciples
Who then could not clearly see,
Jesus said, "This woman has done
A beautiful thing for Me.
"Anointing Me for burial,
She showed Me how much she cared,
So where'er the gospel is preached,
This story will too be shared."
The very best she had she gave;
Not a drop did she withhold.
'Twas a sacrificial off'ring
That the Lord thus blessed fourfold.
May I, too, be like that off'ring,
Recklessly poured out for Thee,
A holy, living sacrifice
Oh, Lord, may I ever be.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And her heart was filled with fear,
For whisperings of tragic news
Spread that Christ's end was soon near.
As jealousy and hatred grew,
Evil men plotted to kill
Her precious Lord by nailing Him
To a cross on Calv'ry's hill.
She had seen her Lord heal the sick,
And blind eyes were made to see;
Lepers were cleansed--the lame could walk.
Son of God, no less, was He.
Her heart was moved with compassion
As she wiped away a tear;
She clasped her alabaster jar,
For her mission now was clear.
The man called Simon the Leper,
So well-known both far and wide,
After Jesus arrived in town,
Had invited Him inside.
So she took her priceless ointment,
And in haste without delay
Went to where Christ was reclining
At a table on that day.
She poured the priceless perfume out
With abandon o'er His head.
Her sacrificial gift of love
Filled the room and quickly spread.
Rebuked by Christ's blind disciples
Who then could not clearly see,
Jesus said, "This woman has done
A beautiful thing for Me.
"Anointing Me for burial,
She showed Me how much she cared,
So where'er the gospel is preached,
This story will too be shared."
The very best she had she gave;
Not a drop did she withhold.
'Twas a sacrificial off'ring
That the Lord thus blessed fourfold.
May I, too, be like that off'ring,
Recklessly poured out for Thee,
A holy, living sacrifice
Oh, Lord, may I ever be.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THE MIRACLE OF FAITH
Upon dry land at God's command
To preserve his family,
By faith Noah built a great ark,
For a flood God said he'd see.
Amidst the jeers and taunts of man,
He persistently maintained
A steadfast hope his home would float,
Then down from Heaven it rained.
By faith Abraham left his home,
For God had said, "Now, go.
I have a promised land for you,
And the way for you I'll show."
In complete abandonment
He then left at God's command.
By faith he saw what was to be,
And he claimed his promised land.
By faith Moses left luxury
And a promised life of ease,
There to suffer with God's people,
For his God he chose to please.
By faith he led God's children through
A parted uncrossable sea,
Guiding them through the wilderness
Where they a nation would be.
By faith the walls of Jericho
Crumbled unto the ground.
Like softened clay they fell that day
As God's army marched around.
The assurance of things hoped for,
The promise of things unseen;
Faith is trusting in God's Word
Knowing He'll intervene.
The miracle of Godly faith
Is given to all who claim
The power He avails to us
When we profess His Name.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
To preserve his family,
By faith Noah built a great ark,
For a flood God said he'd see.
Amidst the jeers and taunts of man,
He persistently maintained
A steadfast hope his home would float,
Then down from Heaven it rained.
By faith Abraham left his home,
For God had said, "Now, go.
I have a promised land for you,
And the way for you I'll show."
In complete abandonment
He then left at God's command.
By faith he saw what was to be,
And he claimed his promised land.
By faith Moses left luxury
And a promised life of ease,
There to suffer with God's people,
For his God he chose to please.
By faith he led God's children through
A parted uncrossable sea,
Guiding them through the wilderness
Where they a nation would be.
By faith the walls of Jericho
Crumbled unto the ground.
Like softened clay they fell that day
As God's army marched around.
The assurance of things hoped for,
The promise of things unseen;
Faith is trusting in God's Word
Knowing He'll intervene.
The miracle of Godly faith
Is given to all who claim
The power He avails to us
When we profess His Name.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MERRY CHRISTMAS ONE AND ALL
On the way home from the shopping mall, they passed a church on their way,
Joseph and Mary were in a stall with Jesus asleep on the hay.
"Daddy, let's stop, for I want to see the baby Jesus right now."
So his father pulled in with a grin; he could not resist somehow.
As they knelt beside the manger bed, a small tear fell from Christ's eye.
So the son then looked to his father and asked, "Why does baby Jesus cry?"
"Son, you noticed at the mall nearby no mention of Jesus' name;
No carolers singing 'Joy to the World,' no good news that Jesus came.
"I'm sure He's sad because we've failed to even acknowledge His birth;
No one to sing, no tidings to bring of why Jesus came to this earth.
We have removed Christ's name from Christmas. How sad I know He must be;
So you and I must spread the good news. Yes, it's up to you and me."
Then at once the baby Jesus smiled as he heard the small boy say,
"I will spread the news both far and wide to all who I pass on the way."
They returned to the mall proclaiming, "Merry Christmas one and all.
Jesus our Savior was born for you in a lowly manger stall."
"Merry Christmas, back to you, my son," o'er the entire mall did ring;
And what started as a solo voice then created a choir to sing.
"Just think," the young boy said to his dad, "if everyone would say,
'Oh, I wish you a Merry Christmas' as they passed along their way.
"Our malls would echo with joyful sound; you'd hear Christ's name everywhere,
And the reason for the season, Dad, would then forever remain there.
We can't leave it to the shop owners. It is up to you and me,
For Christ to remain in Christmas, we must share Him with all we see.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Joseph and Mary were in a stall with Jesus asleep on the hay.
"Daddy, let's stop, for I want to see the baby Jesus right now."
So his father pulled in with a grin; he could not resist somehow.
As they knelt beside the manger bed, a small tear fell from Christ's eye.
So the son then looked to his father and asked, "Why does baby Jesus cry?"
"Son, you noticed at the mall nearby no mention of Jesus' name;
No carolers singing 'Joy to the World,' no good news that Jesus came.
"I'm sure He's sad because we've failed to even acknowledge His birth;
No one to sing, no tidings to bring of why Jesus came to this earth.
We have removed Christ's name from Christmas. How sad I know He must be;
So you and I must spread the good news. Yes, it's up to you and me."
Then at once the baby Jesus smiled as he heard the small boy say,
"I will spread the news both far and wide to all who I pass on the way."
They returned to the mall proclaiming, "Merry Christmas one and all.
Jesus our Savior was born for you in a lowly manger stall."
"Merry Christmas, back to you, my son," o'er the entire mall did ring;
And what started as a solo voice then created a choir to sing.
"Just think," the young boy said to his dad, "if everyone would say,
'Oh, I wish you a Merry Christmas' as they passed along their way.
"Our malls would echo with joyful sound; you'd hear Christ's name everywhere,
And the reason for the season, Dad, would then forever remain there.
We can't leave it to the shop owners. It is up to you and me,
For Christ to remain in Christmas, we must share Him with all we see.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THANKFUL FROM A TO Z
I'm thankful, Lord, from A to Z
For blessing me abundantly.
You're Always there where'er I go,
Beside me in the valleys low,
Comforting me through stormy gale,
Directing over hill and dale,
Encouraging me when I'm weak,
Forgiving when Your grace I seek,
Giving me strength for ev'ry task,
And Hearing each request I ask,
For Joy within my heart You give,
Keeping me safe each day I live,
For Loving me immeasur'bly,
And Mending every hurt in me,
For Never leaving me alone,
For Overflowing grace You've shown,
Your Promises that never fail,
Quieting waves o’er which I sail,
For Rest beneath my heavy load,
And Strength to walk the narrow road,
For Teaching me to trust in You,
Unlimited grace and mercy, too,
Victory o'er each trial I face,
Willingly dying in my place,
X-tending arms to embrace me
While walking with me so closely,
Yourself a gift no words can tell,
For Zion where with You I'll dwell.
So thankful Lord from A to Z
For all Your blessings given me.
A grateful heart for all my days
I lift to You with heartfelt praise.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
For blessing me abundantly.
You're Always there where'er I go,
Beside me in the valleys low,
Comforting me through stormy gale,
Directing over hill and dale,
Encouraging me when I'm weak,
Forgiving when Your grace I seek,
Giving me strength for ev'ry task,
And Hearing each request I ask,
For Joy within my heart You give,
Keeping me safe each day I live,
For Loving me immeasur'bly,
And Mending every hurt in me,
For Never leaving me alone,
For Overflowing grace You've shown,
Your Promises that never fail,
Quieting waves o’er which I sail,
For Rest beneath my heavy load,
And Strength to walk the narrow road,
For Teaching me to trust in You,
Unlimited grace and mercy, too,
Victory o'er each trial I face,
Willingly dying in my place,
X-tending arms to embrace me
While walking with me so closely,
Yourself a gift no words can tell,
For Zion where with You I'll dwell.
So thankful Lord from A to Z
For all Your blessings given me.
A grateful heart for all my days
I lift to You with heartfelt praise.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
ONE THING IS CERTAIN
Surrounded by uncertainties,
My future is assured.
One thing is certain and will stand -
What’s promised in God’s Word.
Our earth may shake and mountains fall
And drop into the sea,
But on the Solid Rock I stand,
And God will protect me.
Though winds may come and blow away
Earth’s treasures held in hand,
My Lord will yet supply my needs.
My God is in command.
While trials may oft assail my soul
As on this earth I trod,
I’m more than conqueror in Christ.
I serve a mighty God.
When darkness comes to veil the light
And sorrow does assail,
My heart will find joy in the Lord.
His love will never fail.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
My future is assured.
One thing is certain and will stand -
What’s promised in God’s Word.
Our earth may shake and mountains fall
And drop into the sea,
But on the Solid Rock I stand,
And God will protect me.
Though winds may come and blow away
Earth’s treasures held in hand,
My Lord will yet supply my needs.
My God is in command.
While trials may oft assail my soul
As on this earth I trod,
I’m more than conqueror in Christ.
I serve a mighty God.
When darkness comes to veil the light
And sorrow does assail,
My heart will find joy in the Lord.
His love will never fail.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A PLACE TO REST
Alone above a des’late land
The dove soared in the sky,
While seeking for a place to rest
From where she flew so high.
She restlessly flew o’er the land
There searching far and near.
Discouraged, she said to herself,
“I’ll never find rest here.
The world below can’t satisfy
Nor give me peace and rest,
So I’ll return home to the ark
Where I was truly blessed.”
As she neared home, in her clear view,
With vigilant, watchful eye,
Noah stood awaiting there
And she heard his joyful cry.
“Welcome home! I’ve been here watching;
I’ve not forgotten you.”
With outstretched arm he offered there
His hand for her rescue.
We may be like this lonely dove
Where in the world we find
No place of comfort to bring rest
Or give us peace of mind.
Yet there is One who stands watching,
Awaiting patiently,
Extending loving hands to us,
Lord Jesus, it is He!
He offers us a place to stand
Where hope and peace abound.
When we return, He’ll set our feet
To rest on Holy Ground.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
The dove soared in the sky,
While seeking for a place to rest
From where she flew so high.
She restlessly flew o’er the land
There searching far and near.
Discouraged, she said to herself,
“I’ll never find rest here.
The world below can’t satisfy
Nor give me peace and rest,
So I’ll return home to the ark
Where I was truly blessed.”
As she neared home, in her clear view,
With vigilant, watchful eye,
Noah stood awaiting there
And she heard his joyful cry.
“Welcome home! I’ve been here watching;
I’ve not forgotten you.”
With outstretched arm he offered there
His hand for her rescue.
We may be like this lonely dove
Where in the world we find
No place of comfort to bring rest
Or give us peace of mind.
Yet there is One who stands watching,
Awaiting patiently,
Extending loving hands to us,
Lord Jesus, it is He!
He offers us a place to stand
Where hope and peace abound.
When we return, He’ll set our feet
To rest on Holy Ground.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
FROM GOD'S POINT OF VIEW
The mountains loomed like giants
Casting shadows over me.
They seemed to stretch into the clouds
Far beyond where I could see.
But one day I took off in flight
And I soared into the sky
And watched the mountains slowly shrink
As the higher I would fly.
What first seemed insurmountable,
These huge mountains that I feared,
Looking from Your perspective, Lord,
So much smaller they appeared.
As I soared into the heavens,
Lord, I marveled at my view.
At last my mountains disappeared
For I saw them as You do.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Casting shadows over me.
They seemed to stretch into the clouds
Far beyond where I could see.
But one day I took off in flight
And I soared into the sky
And watched the mountains slowly shrink
As the higher I would fly.
What first seemed insurmountable,
These huge mountains that I feared,
Looking from Your perspective, Lord,
So much smaller they appeared.
As I soared into the heavens,
Lord, I marveled at my view.
At last my mountains disappeared
For I saw them as You do.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A MINISTRY OF KINDNESS
The poor man walked along his way
And everywhere he went,
He smiled and found kind words to say
To offer encouragement.
One day a heart so burdened
Just happened to pass his way.
Bent over, she walked so slowly
From the cares she bore that day.
Her eyes mirrored her wounded heart
And reflected pools of pain,
While each slow step moved her onward
Leaning on her crooked cane.
She wore an antique eyelet dress
That quickly caught his eye,
And he said, "You look so lovely"
As she slowly passed him by.
She paused beside this gentle man,
And she said, "Thank you, dear sir."
She looked into the kindly eyes
Of the one who'd noticed her.
He said, "I've never seen a dress
Quite as lovely as you wear,"
And her countenance quickly transformed
To a smile from deep despair.
She held onto his treasured words
And her steps began to dance.
A sparkle returned to her eyes
And she walked with eloquence.
Now everyone who passed his way
Would receive a treasure there,
For he offered encouragement
And kind words with them he'd share.
We may not have the gift of gold,
Yet we have a gift to bring,
For words of kindness will uplift
And cause a heart to sing.
A ministry of true kindness
Is one we all can share,
Off'ring words of encouragement
To people ev'rywhere.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And everywhere he went,
He smiled and found kind words to say
To offer encouragement.
One day a heart so burdened
Just happened to pass his way.
Bent over, she walked so slowly
From the cares she bore that day.
Her eyes mirrored her wounded heart
And reflected pools of pain,
While each slow step moved her onward
Leaning on her crooked cane.
She wore an antique eyelet dress
That quickly caught his eye,
And he said, "You look so lovely"
As she slowly passed him by.
She paused beside this gentle man,
And she said, "Thank you, dear sir."
She looked into the kindly eyes
Of the one who'd noticed her.
He said, "I've never seen a dress
Quite as lovely as you wear,"
And her countenance quickly transformed
To a smile from deep despair.
She held onto his treasured words
And her steps began to dance.
A sparkle returned to her eyes
And she walked with eloquence.
Now everyone who passed his way
Would receive a treasure there,
For he offered encouragement
And kind words with them he'd share.
We may not have the gift of gold,
Yet we have a gift to bring,
For words of kindness will uplift
And cause a heart to sing.
A ministry of true kindness
Is one we all can share,
Off'ring words of encouragement
To people ev'rywhere.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
DADDY'S FOOTPRINTS
I saw my daddy's walking shoes
Sitting by the door one day,
So I slipped my feet into them
And went quickly out to play.
There was a path that he had made
That led to a big oak tree
Where he would bow alone to pray,
And He'd ask God to bless me.
His footprints, molded in the clay
From daily going there,
Beckoned me to follow them,
To spend some time in prayer.
Beneath the shade of the oak tree
Where dad would so often go,
I found the place where He would kneel
And would pray for me, I know.
I said, "Dear God, my Dad's a man
Whose shoes I love to wear,
For he's a man who taught me how
You hear and answer prayer.
"So now I pray You'll hear my prayer
And bless my Daddy, too,
For his footprints have led me here
And taught me to love You."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Sitting by the door one day,
So I slipped my feet into them
And went quickly out to play.
There was a path that he had made
That led to a big oak tree
Where he would bow alone to pray,
And He'd ask God to bless me.
His footprints, molded in the clay
From daily going there,
Beckoned me to follow them,
To spend some time in prayer.
Beneath the shade of the oak tree
Where dad would so often go,
I found the place where He would kneel
And would pray for me, I know.
I said, "Dear God, my Dad's a man
Whose shoes I love to wear,
For he's a man who taught me how
You hear and answer prayer.
"So now I pray You'll hear my prayer
And bless my Daddy, too,
For his footprints have led me here
And taught me to love You."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
DADDY'S FOOTPRINTS
I saw my daddy's walking shoes
Sitting by the door one day,
So I slipped my feet into them
And went quickly out to play.
There was a path that he had made
That led to a big oak tree
Where he would bow alone to pray,
And He'd ask God to bless me.
His footprints, molded in the clay
From daily going there,
Beckoned me to follow them,
To spend some time in prayer.
Beneath the shade of the oak tree
Where dad would so often go,
I found the place where He would kneel
And would pray for me, I know.
I said, "Dear God, my Dad's a man
Whose shoes I love to wear,
For he's a man who taught me how
You hear and answer prayer.
"So now I pray You'll hear my prayer
And bless my Daddy, too,
For his footprints have led me here
And taught me to love You."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Sitting by the door one day,
So I slipped my feet into them
And went quickly out to play.
There was a path that he had made
That led to a big oak tree
Where he would bow alone to pray,
And He'd ask God to bless me.
His footprints, molded in the clay
From daily going there,
Beckoned me to follow them,
To spend some time in prayer.
Beneath the shade of the oak tree
Where dad would so often go,
I found the place where He would kneel
And would pray for me, I know.
I said, "Dear God, my Dad's a man
Whose shoes I love to wear,
For he's a man who taught me how
You hear and answer prayer.
"So now I pray You'll hear my prayer
And bless my Daddy, too,
For his footprints have led me here
And taught me to love You."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
CHOSEN
Amazing to know I was chosen
To witness and bear fruit for Thee;
That You-the God of the universe-
In me a great harvest would see.
Love flowing through each healthy branch
Connected to Your Son Divine,
When watered with grace and forgiveness,
Will produce much fruit on Your vine.
As a gard'ner cares for his vineyard,
You prune every branch to bear more,
And await the day of the harvest
To gather the fruit each branch bore.
Lord, may I submit to Your wisdom,
Surrender to Your pruning sheers,
Knowing, in turn, I will bear much fruit,
As my earnest prayer Jesus hears.
"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other" (John 15:16-17).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
To witness and bear fruit for Thee;
That You-the God of the universe-
In me a great harvest would see.
Love flowing through each healthy branch
Connected to Your Son Divine,
When watered with grace and forgiveness,
Will produce much fruit on Your vine.
As a gard'ner cares for his vineyard,
You prune every branch to bear more,
And await the day of the harvest
To gather the fruit each branch bore.
Lord, may I submit to Your wisdom,
Surrender to Your pruning sheers,
Knowing, in turn, I will bear much fruit,
As my earnest prayer Jesus hears.
"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name. This is my command: Love each other" (John 15:16-17).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WHO WILL OTHERS SEE IN ME?
Just who will others see in me?
Will they see Christ in me dwell?
For everyday my actions speak
And my words so loudly tell.
Do they hear words gently spoken?
Do they find someone who cares?
Do I help to bear their burdens -
Lift them up in all my prayers?
Does my heart pour out forgiveness
Just as Christ would have me do?
Am I balm to one who's hurting,
Or God's arms that comfort, too?
I am to be Christ's hands and feet,
A servant to others be;
And I must be ever mindful
Of the Christ they see in me.
I want to be God's candle
As He lives His life through mine;
So I must strive to be like Him
That His light through me will shine.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Will they see Christ in me dwell?
For everyday my actions speak
And my words so loudly tell.
Do they hear words gently spoken?
Do they find someone who cares?
Do I help to bear their burdens -
Lift them up in all my prayers?
Does my heart pour out forgiveness
Just as Christ would have me do?
Am I balm to one who's hurting,
Or God's arms that comfort, too?
I am to be Christ's hands and feet,
A servant to others be;
And I must be ever mindful
Of the Christ they see in me.
I want to be God's candle
As He lives His life through mine;
So I must strive to be like Him
That His light through me will shine.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
TREASURED MOMENTS (Prayer)
As I arise to greet the sun,
Before my day has e'er begun...
I find a quiet place to pray,
To seek God's guidance for my day.
For it's through prayer God speaks to me,
And through His Word He helps me see
How great His love and rich His grace...
Supplied for each new day I face.
It's there I find my strength renewed
As I spend time in solitude.
Alone with God, I feel embraced,
Forgiveness found - my sins erased.
As I spend time with God in prayer,
His miracles begin right there.
Mountains crumble into the sea,
Forev'r removed, no more to be.
Rich fellowship with God alone
Oft draws me to my Father's Throne,
Where unseen arms embrace me there
In treasured moments that we share.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Before my day has e'er begun...
I find a quiet place to pray,
To seek God's guidance for my day.
For it's through prayer God speaks to me,
And through His Word He helps me see
How great His love and rich His grace...
Supplied for each new day I face.
It's there I find my strength renewed
As I spend time in solitude.
Alone with God, I feel embraced,
Forgiveness found - my sins erased.
As I spend time with God in prayer,
His miracles begin right there.
Mountains crumble into the sea,
Forev'r removed, no more to be.
Rich fellowship with God alone
Oft draws me to my Father's Throne,
Where unseen arms embrace me there
In treasured moments that we share.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
BOUNDLESS GRACE (Jesus' death)
God turned away from His only Son
For He could not bear to see
The massive weight of sin He bore
As He hung upon the tree.
Scarred with deep stripes from brutal blows
Endured for you and me,
The sinless lamb, the Son of Man,
Bore our pain and penalty.
His amazing grace and mercy flowed
With each drop of blood He shed.
With head lifted high towards Heaven's sky
These impassioned words He said:
"Forgive them Father" - with love He spoke -
"For they know not what they do."
"It is finished," He cried, and then He died;
His redemptive work was through.
Salvation sealed - His love revealed -
His boundless grace portrayed -
Death's chains set free from you and me
When down His life He laid.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
For He could not bear to see
The massive weight of sin He bore
As He hung upon the tree.
Scarred with deep stripes from brutal blows
Endured for you and me,
The sinless lamb, the Son of Man,
Bore our pain and penalty.
His amazing grace and mercy flowed
With each drop of blood He shed.
With head lifted high towards Heaven's sky
These impassioned words He said:
"Forgive them Father" - with love He spoke -
"For they know not what they do."
"It is finished," He cried, and then He died;
His redemptive work was through.
Salvation sealed - His love revealed -
His boundless grace portrayed -
Death's chains set free from you and me
When down His life He laid.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
LOVE IMMEASURABLE (Jesus' Death)
Amazing grace personified
And love beyond degree
That Jesus Christ, God's only Son,
Would die for you and me.
Incomprehensible to think
He'd gladly bear our pain
Upon a cruel, rugged cross
To cleanse our guilty stain.
God's only Son, nailed to a tree,
Became a sacrifice;
His life's blood shed for you and me,
Paid our sin's awful price.
God's depth of love immeasurable,
His breadth of grace so wide,
His height of mercy there revealed
With Jesus crucified.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And love beyond degree
That Jesus Christ, God's only Son,
Would die for you and me.
Incomprehensible to think
He'd gladly bear our pain
Upon a cruel, rugged cross
To cleanse our guilty stain.
God's only Son, nailed to a tree,
Became a sacrifice;
His life's blood shed for you and me,
Paid our sin's awful price.
God's depth of love immeasurable,
His breadth of grace so wide,
His height of mercy there revealed
With Jesus crucified.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
PORTRAIT OF LOVE
A portrait of love God painted
So everyone would see.
Unveiled in unmatched clarity,
What love should truly be.
With each stroke upon His canvas,
Brushed with amazing grace,
God's masterpiece revealed glory
Etched clearly in Christ's face.
Dark tints of grueling sacrifice,
Contrasted with pure light,
Disclosed love's stoke of God's mercy
Like stars revealed at night.
Framed with forgiveness freely giv'n,
Carved from a rugged tree,
Produced a portrait of God's Son,
His love for all to see.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
So everyone would see.
Unveiled in unmatched clarity,
What love should truly be.
With each stroke upon His canvas,
Brushed with amazing grace,
God's masterpiece revealed glory
Etched clearly in Christ's face.
Dark tints of grueling sacrifice,
Contrasted with pure light,
Disclosed love's stoke of God's mercy
Like stars revealed at night.
Framed with forgiveness freely giv'n,
Carved from a rugged tree,
Produced a portrait of God's Son,
His love for all to see.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
FULLY ALIVE IN 2005
Fully alive in 2005,
Wholly committed to Thee.
Living by grace, each new day I'll face,
Embracing Your plan for me.
With renewed hope, each day I will cope
With strength for each battle I'll face.
I know where You lead You'll always precede
And guide me with Your love and grace.
In 2005 I'm fully alive,
Saved by Your Son, I'm redeemed!
Undeniably blessed, I must confess,
Much more than I've ever dreamed.
No fear of tomorrow, its pain or sorrow,
Knowing that You walk with me.
In faith I will stand while holding Your hand,
Trusting the best will yet be.
Your perfect will I want to fulfill,
Anointed with power to be
Fully alive in 2005
That others may see Christ in me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Wholly committed to Thee.
Living by grace, each new day I'll face,
Embracing Your plan for me.
With renewed hope, each day I will cope
With strength for each battle I'll face.
I know where You lead You'll always precede
And guide me with Your love and grace.
In 2005 I'm fully alive,
Saved by Your Son, I'm redeemed!
Undeniably blessed, I must confess,
Much more than I've ever dreamed.
No fear of tomorrow, its pain or sorrow,
Knowing that You walk with me.
In faith I will stand while holding Your hand,
Trusting the best will yet be.
Your perfect will I want to fulfill,
Anointed with power to be
Fully alive in 2005
That others may see Christ in me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
ONE HOPE (Christmas Poem)
One Child was born in Bethlehem.
One star revealed Christ's birth;
One song the holy angels sang
Of peace to men on earth.
One manger gently cradled Him.
One stable filled with light;
One child who was the Son of God
Was born one holy night.
One virgin mother watched in awe.
One man stood there amazed,
To gaze upon one little child
And to one God they praised.
One moment earth had waited for,
One hope to us God gave.
One way to live eternally,
One Son He sent to save.
Who would have thought one little Child
Would lead to Heaven's door?
But in this Child is our one hope
To live forevermore.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
One star revealed Christ's birth;
One song the holy angels sang
Of peace to men on earth.
One manger gently cradled Him.
One stable filled with light;
One child who was the Son of God
Was born one holy night.
One virgin mother watched in awe.
One man stood there amazed,
To gaze upon one little child
And to one God they praised.
One moment earth had waited for,
One hope to us God gave.
One way to live eternally,
One Son He sent to save.
Who would have thought one little Child
Would lead to Heaven's door?
But in this Child is our one hope
To live forevermore.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
CHRISTMAS JOY
Christ was born to Mary and Emmanuel was His name;
Holy angels announced His birth to shepherds when He came.
Rejoicing, the shepherds, filled with awe, quickly made their
way;
In haste they traveled 'til they found Christ on a bed of hay.
Seeing the Child of Wonder, they knelt and worshipped Him,
Thanking God He had chosen to reveal His Son to them.
Majesty and wonder filled the lowly manger stall;
Amazing revelation that this Child was born for all.
Surrendered hearts outpouring praise proclaimed the Savior's birth,
Joyfully they shared good news that God had come to earth.
One holy night, one child was born, one hope filled human hearts,
Yahweh, our flesh indwells, and now Christmas joy imparts.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Holy angels announced His birth to shepherds when He came.
Rejoicing, the shepherds, filled with awe, quickly made their
way;
In haste they traveled 'til they found Christ on a bed of hay.
Seeing the Child of Wonder, they knelt and worshipped Him,
Thanking God He had chosen to reveal His Son to them.
Majesty and wonder filled the lowly manger stall;
Amazing revelation that this Child was born for all.
Surrendered hearts outpouring praise proclaimed the Savior's birth,
Joyfully they shared good news that God had come to earth.
One holy night, one child was born, one hope filled human hearts,
Yahweh, our flesh indwells, and now Christmas joy imparts.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THANKFUL FOR HIDDEN BLESSINGS
Thank you, Lord, for your gift of grace
Through storms of tribulation,
For even our adversities
Give cause for celebration.
When my life’s canvas is spattered
With dark shades of black and gray,
You take your brush and blend them in
To make a graceful display.
You know just where our canvas needs
To have added shades of gray
Applied with loving strokes of grace
By Your master hands today.
And, Lord, if I could only keep
Just the colors I would choose,
I’d have to leave the shades of gray
Or life’s beauty I would lose.
You’ve said “all things work for our good,”
Whatever you send our way,
So even for the shades of gray
I will thank You for today.
I will express my gratitude
For the colors each day brings
Knowing that adversity’s gray
Will bring us hidden blessings.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Through storms of tribulation,
For even our adversities
Give cause for celebration.
When my life’s canvas is spattered
With dark shades of black and gray,
You take your brush and blend them in
To make a graceful display.
You know just where our canvas needs
To have added shades of gray
Applied with loving strokes of grace
By Your master hands today.
And, Lord, if I could only keep
Just the colors I would choose,
I’d have to leave the shades of gray
Or life’s beauty I would lose.
You’ve said “all things work for our good,”
Whatever you send our way,
So even for the shades of gray
I will thank You for today.
I will express my gratitude
For the colors each day brings
Knowing that adversity’s gray
Will bring us hidden blessings.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT TREE
The tree was sad, she never had
A single fruit to bear,
While she observed so many trees
Bearing lush fruit ev'rywhere.
God sent His sunshine and His rain,
So she couldn't understand.
For God designed her to bear fruit
When for her life He planned.
She prayed, "Dear God, please let me bear
Much fruit, O Lord, for Thee.
I want to be the fruitful tree
You destined me to be.
Then suddenly ripe fruit appeared
And her limbs bowed to the ground.
The fruit of love and joy and peace
And true kindness did abound.
Patience, goodness, and faithfulness grew
And the fruit of self-control.
When the Spirit filled her humble heart,
Holy rain flooded her soul.
Many birds came to build their nests;
So many you would see.
Fruit lovers came to gather 'round
To marvel at this tree.
She freely gave her fruit away
With a humble attitude,
For now the fruit her limbs would bear
Would feed a multitude.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A single fruit to bear,
While she observed so many trees
Bearing lush fruit ev'rywhere.
God sent His sunshine and His rain,
So she couldn't understand.
For God designed her to bear fruit
When for her life He planned.
She prayed, "Dear God, please let me bear
Much fruit, O Lord, for Thee.
I want to be the fruitful tree
You destined me to be.
Then suddenly ripe fruit appeared
And her limbs bowed to the ground.
The fruit of love and joy and peace
And true kindness did abound.
Patience, goodness, and faithfulness grew
And the fruit of self-control.
When the Spirit filled her humble heart,
Holy rain flooded her soul.
Many birds came to build their nests;
So many you would see.
Fruit lovers came to gather 'round
To marvel at this tree.
She freely gave her fruit away
With a humble attitude,
For now the fruit her limbs would bear
Would feed a multitude.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MY REFUGE
I have a Rock of Refuge
Where I can safely hide,
A shelter from the raging storm
Far from the swelling tide.
When wind and floods outside assail,
I'm in a safe retreat.
Or when the sun in beating down,
I'm shielded from the heat.
My enemy cannot invade;
A guard's placed at the door.
Inside I rest in love and peace
Where fear alarms no more.
A mighty fortress that will stand,
Christ Jesus, it is He.
I'll dwell inside where grace abides;
My refuge He will be.
”O LORD my God, I take refuge in You” (Psalm 7:1a).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Where I can safely hide,
A shelter from the raging storm
Far from the swelling tide.
When wind and floods outside assail,
I'm in a safe retreat.
Or when the sun in beating down,
I'm shielded from the heat.
My enemy cannot invade;
A guard's placed at the door.
Inside I rest in love and peace
Where fear alarms no more.
A mighty fortress that will stand,
Christ Jesus, it is He.
I'll dwell inside where grace abides;
My refuge He will be.
”O LORD my God, I take refuge in You” (Psalm 7:1a).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
BLESSINGS FROM THE STORM
The little eagle listened well;
He knew he must prepare.
To face the storm that soon would come,
He whispered a quick prayer.
His father said, "Be not afraid
To face storm winds that blow.
For with each frightful windy blast,
Much higher you will go."
"Surrender to the mighty wind;
Lift up your wings and soar.
Do not retreat; with courage seek
To rise where ne'er before."
The eaglet lifted high his wings
As wind commenced to blow.
His father said, "Now follow me
As upward we must go."
Diving into the raging wind,
He lifted high in flight;
Rising to new heights above,
He soon was out of sight.
Soaring into the heavens, he flew,
Strong wind beneath his wings.
He learned his Heavenly Father
Would use storms to bring blessings.
He learned when tribulation blows,
You'll soar on wings of grace.
God's love will lift you o'er the storm,
Each trial that you face.
With wings of faith you'll face each storm
With confidence and sing.
Uplifted high by winds of love,
New blessings God will bring.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
He knew he must prepare.
To face the storm that soon would come,
He whispered a quick prayer.
His father said, "Be not afraid
To face storm winds that blow.
For with each frightful windy blast,
Much higher you will go."
"Surrender to the mighty wind;
Lift up your wings and soar.
Do not retreat; with courage seek
To rise where ne'er before."
The eaglet lifted high his wings
As wind commenced to blow.
His father said, "Now follow me
As upward we must go."
Diving into the raging wind,
He lifted high in flight;
Rising to new heights above,
He soon was out of sight.
Soaring into the heavens, he flew,
Strong wind beneath his wings.
He learned his Heavenly Father
Would use storms to bring blessings.
He learned when tribulation blows,
You'll soar on wings of grace.
God's love will lift you o'er the storm,
Each trial that you face.
With wings of faith you'll face each storm
With confidence and sing.
Uplifted high by winds of love,
New blessings God will bring.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MUSTARD-SEED FAITH
She gently held the small mustard seed
In the palm of her frail hand,
So tiny that it appeared to her
Like a minute grain of sand.
She pondered the simple words of Christ
Who said if we just believed
Our mountains would crumble before us
With faith of a mustard seed.
She thought, "This seed is so very small,
And my mountain is so grand;
But, Lord, I know this mountain will fall
As I place it in Your hand."
"Though my faith is like this mustard seed,
I am trusting in Your word
And believing for a miracle,
For I know my prayer is heard."
The earth where she knelt began to shake
And she heard a crashing sound,
For her mountain that loomed before her
Quickly tumbled to the ground.
Then her tears of joy fell to the sod
As she bowed on bended knee,
And her tiny seed took root below
And grew to become a tree.
Many marveled at the woman's faith,
But so quickly she would tell
How with her mustard-seed faith God moved
And her mighty mountain fell.
She said, "While your faith may seem so small,
Like that of a mustard seed,
You'll watch your mountains crumble and fall
As God moves to intercede."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
In the palm of her frail hand,
So tiny that it appeared to her
Like a minute grain of sand.
She pondered the simple words of Christ
Who said if we just believed
Our mountains would crumble before us
With faith of a mustard seed.
She thought, "This seed is so very small,
And my mountain is so grand;
But, Lord, I know this mountain will fall
As I place it in Your hand."
"Though my faith is like this mustard seed,
I am trusting in Your word
And believing for a miracle,
For I know my prayer is heard."
The earth where she knelt began to shake
And she heard a crashing sound,
For her mountain that loomed before her
Quickly tumbled to the ground.
Then her tears of joy fell to the sod
As she bowed on bended knee,
And her tiny seed took root below
And grew to become a tree.
Many marveled at the woman's faith,
But so quickly she would tell
How with her mustard-seed faith God moved
And her mighty mountain fell.
She said, "While your faith may seem so small,
Like that of a mustard seed,
You'll watch your mountains crumble and fall
As God moves to intercede."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
PATH TO PERFECT REST
If God can walk the galaxies,
Make highways in the sky,
And chart an unseen path in space
For little birds to fly...
If God creates beneath the sea
A trail for fish to swim,
To make a road for me to trod
Is not too hard for Him.
Although I may not see the way
When darkness clouds my view,
I know the One who leadeth me
And what my God will do.
A roadway He is making me
To blessings yet to be,
And though my path be clouded now,
Through eyes of faith I see.
I take hold of His loving hand
And patiently trust Him.
I walk by faith and not by sight,
Although my way is dim.
For never has He failed to lead
But to a higher way,
And I can trust Him as I walk
Beside Him every day.
So daily I will place my trust
In God, who knows what's best,
Confident He will lead me down
His path to perfect rest.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Make highways in the sky,
And chart an unseen path in space
For little birds to fly...
If God creates beneath the sea
A trail for fish to swim,
To make a road for me to trod
Is not too hard for Him.
Although I may not see the way
When darkness clouds my view,
I know the One who leadeth me
And what my God will do.
A roadway He is making me
To blessings yet to be,
And though my path be clouded now,
Through eyes of faith I see.
I take hold of His loving hand
And patiently trust Him.
I walk by faith and not by sight,
Although my way is dim.
For never has He failed to lead
But to a higher way,
And I can trust Him as I walk
Beside Him every day.
So daily I will place my trust
In God, who knows what's best,
Confident He will lead me down
His path to perfect rest.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
GOD'S PERFECT PLAN
Our perfect God with His perfect way
Has a perfect plan.
He had your unique plan in mind
Before your life began.
Before the first beat of your heart,
Before your lungs inhaled,
He knew you in His heart and mind
And had your life detailed.
And though it may not be revealed,
Your heart can rest assured
He's working all things for your good
According to His Word.
All rain that falls onto your life
Is filtered through His hand
He keeps watch with a careful eye
To fulfill what He has planned.
God's plan is so incredible
And one day you will see
The amazing way that God designed
Your plan so perfectly.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Has a perfect plan.
He had your unique plan in mind
Before your life began.
Before the first beat of your heart,
Before your lungs inhaled,
He knew you in His heart and mind
And had your life detailed.
And though it may not be revealed,
Your heart can rest assured
He's working all things for your good
According to His Word.
All rain that falls onto your life
Is filtered through His hand
He keeps watch with a careful eye
To fulfill what He has planned.
God's plan is so incredible
And one day you will see
The amazing way that God designed
Your plan so perfectly.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
BROKEN BREAD
I entered the Holy city
And I heard an angry mob.
Loud voices were filled with hatred,
While others you could hear sob.
Then above the noise and clamor
I could hear the name Jesus.
I pushed my way into the crowd
Just to see what caused the fuss.
Then voices shouted, "Crucify!"
"Let us nail Him to a tree!"
While others stood with tear-stained eyes
Saying, "No! How can this be?"
This is the man who broke my bread
And He fed a multitude.
He said, "I am the Bread of life
My body's eternal food.
"All who will come and eat of Me
I will feed your soul today.
Come and taste of the Living Bread;
I will turn no one away."
His body's now bruised and broken,
Sacrificed for you and me.
They crucify and hang on high
God's Son on Calvary.
Love and grace now crumble and fall
From the heart of this broken bread.
And with His life's blood freely shed
A great multitude is fed.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And I heard an angry mob.
Loud voices were filled with hatred,
While others you could hear sob.
Then above the noise and clamor
I could hear the name Jesus.
I pushed my way into the crowd
Just to see what caused the fuss.
Then voices shouted, "Crucify!"
"Let us nail Him to a tree!"
While others stood with tear-stained eyes
Saying, "No! How can this be?"
This is the man who broke my bread
And He fed a multitude.
He said, "I am the Bread of life
My body's eternal food.
"All who will come and eat of Me
I will feed your soul today.
Come and taste of the Living Bread;
I will turn no one away."
His body's now bruised and broken,
Sacrificed for you and me.
They crucify and hang on high
God's Son on Calvary.
Love and grace now crumble and fall
From the heart of this broken bread.
And with His life's blood freely shed
A great multitude is fed.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THE FACE OF GOD
"Oh, Mom, I saw the face of God,"
The little fellow cried.
"The face of God? Son, tell me more,"
His mother then replied.
"As I was playing in the park,
I met an older man.
He sat alone on a park bench
And watched me as I ran."
"He smiled at me and waved his hand.
Said, 'You're a fine young man.
I bet no one can jump or run
As fast as you just ran.'"
"I don't normally talk to strangers,
But he was old and gray
And he seemed lonely sitting there
Watching me run and play."
"I sat down on the bench with him
And shared with him my lunch.
He looked at me with gentle eyes
And said, 'Son, thanks a bunch.'"
"He bowed his head and said this prayer:
'Lord, thank you for today.
And thank you, Lord, for sending me
This fine young man my way.'"
"I felt the love of God in him.
I saw God in his smile.
He made me feel so special
As we talked there for a while."
"I saw the face of God today.
We laughed together, too.
He had gray hair upon his head
And gentle eyes of blue. "
His mother smiled and said, "I'm proud!
And if you only knew,
I'm sure this man told everyone
That he saw God in you."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
The little fellow cried.
"The face of God? Son, tell me more,"
His mother then replied.
"As I was playing in the park,
I met an older man.
He sat alone on a park bench
And watched me as I ran."
"He smiled at me and waved his hand.
Said, 'You're a fine young man.
I bet no one can jump or run
As fast as you just ran.'"
"I don't normally talk to strangers,
But he was old and gray
And he seemed lonely sitting there
Watching me run and play."
"I sat down on the bench with him
And shared with him my lunch.
He looked at me with gentle eyes
And said, 'Son, thanks a bunch.'"
"He bowed his head and said this prayer:
'Lord, thank you for today.
And thank you, Lord, for sending me
This fine young man my way.'"
"I felt the love of God in him.
I saw God in his smile.
He made me feel so special
As we talked there for a while."
"I saw the face of God today.
We laughed together, too.
He had gray hair upon his head
And gentle eyes of blue. "
His mother smiled and said, "I'm proud!
And if you only knew,
I'm sure this man told everyone
That he saw God in you."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
TIMELY QUESTION
Twenty-four hours are given each day,
Apportioned to us fairly.
And just how we choose to spend each hour
Is thought of much too rarely.
Is there too much time spent on ourselves
With no thought of another?
Just how much time do we set aside
To lift a fallen brother?
Do we find the time to criticize
With no time for praise to spare?
Do we take the time to help someone,
Let them know how much we care?
Do we plan some time to worship God,
Set aside a time to pray?
Do we expend all our hours wisely
Or just squander them away?
How would we use all our time today
If tomorrow we'd not see?
Would life just go on as usual?
Would we change to some degree?
If we would just live each day for God
Thinking it may be our last,
Would our priorities be diff\'rent?
Would we notice some contrast?
We will only get to spend it once.
We must choose what we will do.
Will God be pleased? Will He say, "Well done!"
When our time on earth is through?
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Apportioned to us fairly.
And just how we choose to spend each hour
Is thought of much too rarely.
Is there too much time spent on ourselves
With no thought of another?
Just how much time do we set aside
To lift a fallen brother?
Do we find the time to criticize
With no time for praise to spare?
Do we take the time to help someone,
Let them know how much we care?
Do we plan some time to worship God,
Set aside a time to pray?
Do we expend all our hours wisely
Or just squander them away?
How would we use all our time today
If tomorrow we'd not see?
Would life just go on as usual?
Would we change to some degree?
If we would just live each day for God
Thinking it may be our last,
Would our priorities be diff\'rent?
Would we notice some contrast?
We will only get to spend it once.
We must choose what we will do.
Will God be pleased? Will He say, "Well done!"
When our time on earth is through?
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
TIME OUT
The game was tight; the score was tied.
You could hear the tense crowd shout.
With seconds left to make the shot,
The Coach called a time out.
The team consisted of The Church
And it faced the great World Team.
Coach Jesus said, "Let's huddle now,
For this game we will redeem."
They knelt together on the court
For renewed strength from above.
Then Jesus said, "Go get'em now!
This game we've won in love."
"Though the world at times may seem ahead,
We will win the victory.
For I have overcome the world
By my death on Calvary."
The team renewed with joy returned
To complete the shot and win.
The banner "By Christ's Grace Alone"
Declared victory over sin.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
You could hear the tense crowd shout.
With seconds left to make the shot,
The Coach called a time out.
The team consisted of The Church
And it faced the great World Team.
Coach Jesus said, "Let's huddle now,
For this game we will redeem."
They knelt together on the court
For renewed strength from above.
Then Jesus said, "Go get'em now!
This game we've won in love."
"Though the world at times may seem ahead,
We will win the victory.
For I have overcome the world
By my death on Calvary."
The team renewed with joy returned
To complete the shot and win.
The banner "By Christ's Grace Alone"
Declared victory over sin.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THE VIRUS
Have you heard about the virus,
It's potentiality
To be spread so very quickly
As it's passed from you and me?
This ole virus is contagious,
And it cannot be contained;
But for all who've been affected
They have never e'er complained.
This virus has been known to change
An entire community,
That once it starts it can't be stopped
As it spreads so rapidly.
The name they've given this virus
Is spelled S-M-I-L-E.
It originates in the heart
But the symptoms we can see.
Someone's eyes will brightly sparkle.
Their mouth will turn up and stay.
Hands uplift and wave in gesture,
And kind words you'll hear one say.
There's one symptom of this virus
That affects the person's feet.
It just seems one can't control them
As they dance a happy beat.
We will start the virus spreading
As we S-M-I-L-E.
Let's pass it on to all we meet,
And to everyone we see.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
It's potentiality
To be spread so very quickly
As it's passed from you and me?
This ole virus is contagious,
And it cannot be contained;
But for all who've been affected
They have never e'er complained.
This virus has been known to change
An entire community,
That once it starts it can't be stopped
As it spreads so rapidly.
The name they've given this virus
Is spelled S-M-I-L-E.
It originates in the heart
But the symptoms we can see.
Someone's eyes will brightly sparkle.
Their mouth will turn up and stay.
Hands uplift and wave in gesture,
And kind words you'll hear one say.
There's one symptom of this virus
That affects the person's feet.
It just seems one can't control them
As they dance a happy beat.
We will start the virus spreading
As we S-M-I-L-E.
Let's pass it on to all we meet,
And to everyone we see.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
DARE TO DO MORE IN 2004
So much more in 2004
Oh, Lord, I must dare to do
If I'm to make a difference
And touch other lives for You.
More love to show to others if,
Lord, I am to be Your hands
To embrace a hurting brother
Or to help the weak to stand.
More forgiveness for another,
And all bitterness erase.
Extend Your love and mercy, Lord,
So that others feel Your grace.
More of all You have given me
To share with those who're in need.
More time to pray for others, Lord,
And to daily intercede.
May I take more time to listen
As I kneel on holy ground;
Surrender every part of me
That your grace in me abound.
In 2004 I'll do more
Just to help the world to see
That one can make a difference
As You live Your life through me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Oh, Lord, I must dare to do
If I'm to make a difference
And touch other lives for You.
More love to show to others if,
Lord, I am to be Your hands
To embrace a hurting brother
Or to help the weak to stand.
More forgiveness for another,
And all bitterness erase.
Extend Your love and mercy, Lord,
So that others feel Your grace.
More of all You have given me
To share with those who're in need.
More time to pray for others, Lord,
And to daily intercede.
May I take more time to listen
As I kneel on holy ground;
Surrender every part of me
That your grace in me abound.
In 2004 I'll do more
Just to help the world to see
That one can make a difference
As You live Your life through me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
CHILD OF WONDER
I gaze into Your eyes that watched
The heavens being formed.
I touch the lips that spoke the words
That left the earth transformed.
I caress each tiny finger
That formed each distant star,
I stroke Your feet that walked among
The galaxies afar.
My Son of wonder, Son of truth,
Emmanuel, our King,
As I embrace you in my arms,
A song of praise I sing.
I marvel that the world will know
You will be called my son.
My overflowing joy is now
Without comparison.
I’ll find delight in raising You
To full maturity,
And know the day will also come
When You’ll deliver me.
My child of wonder, Lord of all,
You’ve come to earth to dwell
As King of kings and Lord of lords,
You are Emmanuel.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
The heavens being formed.
I touch the lips that spoke the words
That left the earth transformed.
I caress each tiny finger
That formed each distant star,
I stroke Your feet that walked among
The galaxies afar.
My Son of wonder, Son of truth,
Emmanuel, our King,
As I embrace you in my arms,
A song of praise I sing.
I marvel that the world will know
You will be called my son.
My overflowing joy is now
Without comparison.
I’ll find delight in raising You
To full maturity,
And know the day will also come
When You’ll deliver me.
My child of wonder, Lord of all,
You’ve come to earth to dwell
As King of kings and Lord of lords,
You are Emmanuel.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
FOREVER CHANGED
I had just hung my sign that read
"No Vacancies Inside"
When this couple came here knocking;
"We need a room," they cried.
I saw the woman was with child
And badly needed rest,
And so I said, "Just follow me.
I'll try to do my best."
I led them to my quaint stable
And found some clean, fresh hay.
I did my best to make a bed
Where they could rest that day.
They thanked me very kindly for
The trouble I went to
To make them very comfortable,
For all I tried to do.
I saw the lady was with child
It looked like she was due.
But I didn't know he would arrive
Before the night was through.
I looked out of my window in
The middle of the night.
There shined a brilliant star above
That was an awesome sight.
I heard voices loudly raising,
Shepherds praising their King
As they told of angels singing,
"Good news to you we bring."
I quickly dressed and went to them;
This child I had to see.
Was He who they said He was?
Was He royalty?
Then as I viewed this tiny child,
A tear fell from my eye.
Overwhelmed with awe and wonder,
He my soul did magnify.
Unceasingly I'll sing His praise
Throughout eternity.
Forever changed, I'm not the same,
For He was born in me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
"No Vacancies Inside"
When this couple came here knocking;
"We need a room," they cried.
I saw the woman was with child
And badly needed rest,
And so I said, "Just follow me.
I'll try to do my best."
I led them to my quaint stable
And found some clean, fresh hay.
I did my best to make a bed
Where they could rest that day.
They thanked me very kindly for
The trouble I went to
To make them very comfortable,
For all I tried to do.
I saw the lady was with child
It looked like she was due.
But I didn't know he would arrive
Before the night was through.
I looked out of my window in
The middle of the night.
There shined a brilliant star above
That was an awesome sight.
I heard voices loudly raising,
Shepherds praising their King
As they told of angels singing,
"Good news to you we bring."
I quickly dressed and went to them;
This child I had to see.
Was He who they said He was?
Was He royalty?
Then as I viewed this tiny child,
A tear fell from my eye.
Overwhelmed with awe and wonder,
He my soul did magnify.
Unceasingly I'll sing His praise
Throughout eternity.
Forever changed, I'm not the same,
For He was born in me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
GOD'S FASHION STATEMENT
Discard all your worldly garments;
Redress and put on the new.
Adorn with jewels of holiness
That reflect God's grace in you.
Wear the shoes of true compassion;
Walk beside a hurting soul.
Hold with hands gloved in gentleness;
Bring one comfort and console.
Wear the pants of patience, praying,
Tailor fit for bended knees.
Don the dur'ble shirt of kindness,
Working hard to always please.
Put on God's overcoat of love;
Coord'nate with stylist flair.
Remember that the world will see,
Judging you by what you wear.
"Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity" (Col. 3:12,14).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Redress and put on the new.
Adorn with jewels of holiness
That reflect God's grace in you.
Wear the shoes of true compassion;
Walk beside a hurting soul.
Hold with hands gloved in gentleness;
Bring one comfort and console.
Wear the pants of patience, praying,
Tailor fit for bended knees.
Don the dur'ble shirt of kindness,
Working hard to always please.
Put on God's overcoat of love;
Coord'nate with stylist flair.
Remember that the world will see,
Judging you by what you wear.
"Clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.
And over all these virtues, put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity" (Col. 3:12,14).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
AN ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE
An attitude of gratitude,
Lord, may I have always.
For I want to sing your praises
When trials cloud my days.
For all things work out for our good
Just the way you have planned.
And all our broken pieces You
Refashion in Your hand.
You remold them and remake them
Into something brand new,
True blessings unimaginable
And clouded from our view.
You've said in all things to give thanks
According to Your will;
To offer up thanksgiving and
To trust and just be still.
So fill my heart with gratitude,
An attitude of praise,
That I may thus discover, Lord,
The wonder of Your ways.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Lord, may I have always.
For I want to sing your praises
When trials cloud my days.
For all things work out for our good
Just the way you have planned.
And all our broken pieces You
Refashion in Your hand.
You remold them and remake them
Into something brand new,
True blessings unimaginable
And clouded from our view.
You've said in all things to give thanks
According to Your will;
To offer up thanksgiving and
To trust and just be still.
So fill my heart with gratitude,
An attitude of praise,
That I may thus discover, Lord,
The wonder of Your ways.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
SIMEON'S SONG
Traveling down the dusty road
With haste I went that day
Just to make it to the temple
Where I would often pray.
For many years, I had watched for
The long-awaited One
That God had promised I would see
Before I would pass on.
My own eyes would see His glory
And the wonder He would bring.
I felt real longing for the day
My arms would hold our King.
Then as I passed through temple doors,
My heart inside did leap.
Before me in His mother's arms
The Child lay fast asleep.
Warm tears fell down as I saw Him,
My legs became so weak.
Before me was the Promised One
That I for years did seek.
His mother placed Him in my arms,
His breath I did inhale;
Embracing Him so close to me,
I noticed each detail.
My eyes have seen His glory
My ears long past had heard;
His great redemption's been revealed
According to God's Word.
The Light of His salvation came
For all the world to see;
The fulfillment of God's promise
That He once made to me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
With haste I went that day
Just to make it to the temple
Where I would often pray.
For many years, I had watched for
The long-awaited One
That God had promised I would see
Before I would pass on.
My own eyes would see His glory
And the wonder He would bring.
I felt real longing for the day
My arms would hold our King.
Then as I passed through temple doors,
My heart inside did leap.
Before me in His mother's arms
The Child lay fast asleep.
Warm tears fell down as I saw Him,
My legs became so weak.
Before me was the Promised One
That I for years did seek.
His mother placed Him in my arms,
His breath I did inhale;
Embracing Him so close to me,
I noticed each detail.
My eyes have seen His glory
My ears long past had heard;
His great redemption's been revealed
According to God's Word.
The Light of His salvation came
For all the world to see;
The fulfillment of God's promise
That He once made to me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MY CUP OF THANKFULNESS O'ERFLOWS
My cup of thankfulness o'erflows
With praise and gratitude
For the bounty of God's goodness,
For blessings multitude.
For the golden glow of sunshine
Against the harvest sky
As autumn leaves dance in the breeze
Painting the mountains high.
For acres of sweet golden grain
That stretch across the land.
For strength to stand amidst the storm
Sheltered within God's hand.
For harvest rain that falls on earth
To bathe the earthly sod.
For praying saints whose incense rise
Before the throne of God.
My cup of thankfulness o'erflows
And spills out to my King;
As long as life will give me breath,
His song of praise I'll sing.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
With praise and gratitude
For the bounty of God's goodness,
For blessings multitude.
For the golden glow of sunshine
Against the harvest sky
As autumn leaves dance in the breeze
Painting the mountains high.
For acres of sweet golden grain
That stretch across the land.
For strength to stand amidst the storm
Sheltered within God's hand.
For harvest rain that falls on earth
To bathe the earthly sod.
For praying saints whose incense rise
Before the throne of God.
My cup of thankfulness o'erflows
And spills out to my King;
As long as life will give me breath,
His song of praise I'll sing.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
LORD, I GIVE THANKS (Thanksgiving Poem)
Lord, I give thanks for Your mercy and grace,
Strength to encounter each trial that I face,
Pow'r over temptation's searing hot rays,
Christ to walk with me through all of my days.
Lord, I give thanks for salvation that's free,
Offered and paid for by Christ's death for me,
Your rain of forgiveness cleansing from sin,
Joy overflowing my heart deep within.
Lord, I give thanks for each answer to prayer,
For peace in the storm that always is there,
Promise of blessings to yet be fulfilled,
Your love o'erflowing and power instilled.
Lord, I give thanks for all these and much more;
Accept my thanksgiving, Lord, I implore.
Receive these, my gifts, though humble they be,
As my praise off'ring uplifted to Thee.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Strength to encounter each trial that I face,
Pow'r over temptation's searing hot rays,
Christ to walk with me through all of my days.
Lord, I give thanks for salvation that's free,
Offered and paid for by Christ's death for me,
Your rain of forgiveness cleansing from sin,
Joy overflowing my heart deep within.
Lord, I give thanks for each answer to prayer,
For peace in the storm that always is there,
Promise of blessings to yet be fulfilled,
Your love o'erflowing and power instilled.
Lord, I give thanks for all these and much more;
Accept my thanksgiving, Lord, I implore.
Receive these, my gifts, though humble they be,
As my praise off'ring uplifted to Thee.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A HOUSE RESTORED
The old deserted house stood there
Weathered and beaten with time.
This once white house showed years layered
With black soot, dark mar and grime.
The windows were cracked and shattered,
Shingles missing from the roof,
The tattered fence stood in shambles
And brought comments of reproof.
"Why can't they tear this old house down?
It's such an eyesore, you see.
Why it still stands here today
Is such a myst'ry to me."
The Master Builder then passed by
And He looked with sympathy,
For he saw the house's true beauty,
It's potentiality.
He set to work and repaired the roof,
Replaced the windows with new.
The tattered fence now straight and tall,
The house was a sight to view.
Our lives are often like this house
And many may criticize,
But the Master Builder views our lives
With entirely diff'rent eyes.
Now He is waiting to repair
Your house destroyed by sin.
And when He's through, He'll live in you,
Shine His light of peace within.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Weathered and beaten with time.
This once white house showed years layered
With black soot, dark mar and grime.
The windows were cracked and shattered,
Shingles missing from the roof,
The tattered fence stood in shambles
And brought comments of reproof.
"Why can't they tear this old house down?
It's such an eyesore, you see.
Why it still stands here today
Is such a myst'ry to me."
The Master Builder then passed by
And He looked with sympathy,
For he saw the house's true beauty,
It's potentiality.
He set to work and repaired the roof,
Replaced the windows with new.
The tattered fence now straight and tall,
The house was a sight to view.
Our lives are often like this house
And many may criticize,
But the Master Builder views our lives
With entirely diff'rent eyes.
Now He is waiting to repair
Your house destroyed by sin.
And when He's through, He'll live in you,
Shine His light of peace within.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
ONE SIZE FITS ALL
The man was dressed in loathsome rags
And he bore the scars of sin.
With dragging feet he trudged along,
Without hope or peace within.
But as he passed along the way,
He could hear a loud voice say,
“New clothes for you. One size fits all.
Please, come try them on today.”
He stopped to listen quietly.
Then he asked, “Will they fit me?
My body’s badly torn and scared.
I am stooped and bowed, you see.”
The Master Tailor said, “Step up.
I have just the size for you.
And when you put them on, my friend,
Your soul they will renew.”
He stepped into the changing room,
Discarding garments of sin.
Donning robes of righteousness,
He felt renewed within.
So tall and straight, he stood erect.
Then he bowed in reverence,
And he thanked the Master Tailor
For His kind benevolence.
He shared with all who passed his way.
You could hear him loudly call
And point them to the One who cried,
“New clothing-- One size fits all.”
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And he bore the scars of sin.
With dragging feet he trudged along,
Without hope or peace within.
But as he passed along the way,
He could hear a loud voice say,
“New clothes for you. One size fits all.
Please, come try them on today.”
He stopped to listen quietly.
Then he asked, “Will they fit me?
My body’s badly torn and scared.
I am stooped and bowed, you see.”
The Master Tailor said, “Step up.
I have just the size for you.
And when you put them on, my friend,
Your soul they will renew.”
He stepped into the changing room,
Discarding garments of sin.
Donning robes of righteousness,
He felt renewed within.
So tall and straight, he stood erect.
Then he bowed in reverence,
And he thanked the Master Tailor
For His kind benevolence.
He shared with all who passed his way.
You could hear him loudly call
And point them to the One who cried,
“New clothing-- One size fits all.”
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
THE KEY TO HAPPINESS
The door to happiness stood locked
That led to Joyful Land.
I knocked, but no one opened it.
God said, "What's in your hand?"
"For many keys you do possess
And one of them will fit.
The keys," God said, "are choices made.
And one key will admit."
"The key that will unlock the door
To peace and perfect rest
Is fashioned by right choices made
And is the life that's blest."
"No one can e'er open the door
To happiness for you.
The key lies only in your hand
And what you choose to do."
"Right choices made based on My Word
Now will unlock the door
That leads to joy and happiness
And peace forevermore."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
That led to Joyful Land.
I knocked, but no one opened it.
God said, "What's in your hand?"
"For many keys you do possess
And one of them will fit.
The keys," God said, "are choices made.
And one key will admit."
"The key that will unlock the door
To peace and perfect rest
Is fashioned by right choices made
And is the life that's blest."
"No one can e'er open the door
To happiness for you.
The key lies only in your hand
And what you choose to do."
"Right choices made based on My Word
Now will unlock the door
That leads to joy and happiness
And peace forevermore."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
COME REST AT THE WAY
The lost man wandered aimlessly.
He could not find his way,
Till he stopped and asked a stranger,
"Where can a lost man stay?"
The stranger said, "I know just the place;
There is room for you, my friend.
You'll find rest for your tired soul.
It's just around the bend."
"You'll find the name hangs in clear view.
The sign will say THE WAY.
You're always welcome to come in
And find a place to stay."
"And when you enter through the door,
Ask for the One called Grace.
You'll find that Grace will lead you to
A quiet resting place."
"Mercy has prepared each room;
Your joy there will increase.
Resting in the room called 'Love,'
Will bring you perfect peace.
The room is there and awaits you,
And for you there is no cost.
The owner's Son has paid the price
For a tired soul who's lost.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
He could not find his way,
Till he stopped and asked a stranger,
"Where can a lost man stay?"
The stranger said, "I know just the place;
There is room for you, my friend.
You'll find rest for your tired soul.
It's just around the bend."
"You'll find the name hangs in clear view.
The sign will say THE WAY.
You're always welcome to come in
And find a place to stay."
"And when you enter through the door,
Ask for the One called Grace.
You'll find that Grace will lead you to
A quiet resting place."
"Mercy has prepared each room;
Your joy there will increase.
Resting in the room called 'Love,'
Will bring you perfect peace.
The room is there and awaits you,
And for you there is no cost.
The owner's Son has paid the price
For a tired soul who's lost.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
SAFE AT HOME
Many times in life I’d swung the bat,
And each time the ball I’d miss.
Yet stubbornly I’d approach home plate;
In my strength I would persist.
One day Jesus said, “You need a coach.
If you’ll keep your eyes on Me,
I will tell you when to swing the bat;
Watch and listen carefully.”
“Tune out the world that around you stares,
Not mindful of what they think.
Just boldly stand, focus straight on Me,
And let not your courage shrink.”
So confidently, with bat upraised,
I stood poised and reassured
That a home run I would surely hit
As I trusted in His Word.
As the pitcher threw the speedy ball,
I heard Jesus say, “Now, Swing!”
And the ball connected with my bat
So that I could hear it sing.
Around the bases I swiftly ran,
As so jubilant my feet,
I then crossed each plate with rapid speed
Thus to make my lap complete.
I was safe at home by Christ alone;
In my strength I’d always failed.
And Heaven cheered as I crossed home plate;
By God’s grace I had prevailed.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And each time the ball I’d miss.
Yet stubbornly I’d approach home plate;
In my strength I would persist.
One day Jesus said, “You need a coach.
If you’ll keep your eyes on Me,
I will tell you when to swing the bat;
Watch and listen carefully.”
“Tune out the world that around you stares,
Not mindful of what they think.
Just boldly stand, focus straight on Me,
And let not your courage shrink.”
So confidently, with bat upraised,
I stood poised and reassured
That a home run I would surely hit
As I trusted in His Word.
As the pitcher threw the speedy ball,
I heard Jesus say, “Now, Swing!”
And the ball connected with my bat
So that I could hear it sing.
Around the bases I swiftly ran,
As so jubilant my feet,
I then crossed each plate with rapid speed
Thus to make my lap complete.
I was safe at home by Christ alone;
In my strength I’d always failed.
And Heaven cheered as I crossed home plate;
By God’s grace I had prevailed.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WHAT IS TRUTH?
Embodied truth was made visible
For all mankind to see;
True Wisdom became manifest
To reveal a mystery.
The Truth came robed in holy light,
Though blind men could not see;
And many failed to understand
How simple Truth could be.
When one asked Jesus, "What is truth?"
He failed to comprehend;
For Christ had said, "Just look at Me.
I AM Truth, my friend."
"I came that man might understand
That truth is found in Me.
And when My truth embodies you,
This Truth will set you free."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
For all mankind to see;
True Wisdom became manifest
To reveal a mystery.
The Truth came robed in holy light,
Though blind men could not see;
And many failed to understand
How simple Truth could be.
When one asked Jesus, "What is truth?"
He failed to comprehend;
For Christ had said, "Just look at Me.
I AM Truth, my friend."
"I came that man might understand
That truth is found in Me.
And when My truth embodies you,
This Truth will set you free."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
RESTING IN THE HANDS OF GOD
Held tightly in the mighty hands
Of the Sovereign Lord above,
Nothing can touch except it be
Filtered through fingers of love.
Whate'er I face 'tis by God's grace
And will work out for my good;
For trials that come to threaten me
Are so oft misunderstood.
My Sovereign God who's in control
Allows nothing to defeat,
But chooses trials that will strengthen me
And will make my life complete.
In faith my heart can trust the One
Whose sovereign plan is to bless,
For all must pass through loving hands
That protect me and caress.
With God's fingers wrapped around me,
I find comfort for my soul,
That nothing will ever harm me
While my God is in control.
This blessed truth much comfort brings
That I'm safe and so secure,
That whate'er storms may come my way
In God's hands I will endure.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Of the Sovereign Lord above,
Nothing can touch except it be
Filtered through fingers of love.
Whate'er I face 'tis by God's grace
And will work out for my good;
For trials that come to threaten me
Are so oft misunderstood.
My Sovereign God who's in control
Allows nothing to defeat,
But chooses trials that will strengthen me
And will make my life complete.
In faith my heart can trust the One
Whose sovereign plan is to bless,
For all must pass through loving hands
That protect me and caress.
With God's fingers wrapped around me,
I find comfort for my soul,
That nothing will ever harm me
While my God is in control.
This blessed truth much comfort brings
That I'm safe and so secure,
That whate'er storms may come my way
In God's hands I will endure.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MOUNTAIN MOVING PRAYER
We stand at the foot of the mountain;
Its chilly, dark shadows cast o'er.
Then the strong winds of doubt arrest us,
And blow like they've never before.
The mountain appears it will conquer;
No way in our strength we'll cross o'er.
But the "Son" peaks over the mountain,
Giving grace our faith to restore.
Now at once the ground starts to tremble;
The mountain drops into the sea.
Christ said, "When you trust and surrender,
Nothing's impossible for me."
"Amazing miracles will happen,
Resulting from powerful prayer.
I'll not leave or ever forsake you.
Trust me; I will always be there."
"No mountain can e'er stand before you;
Fervent prayer will blast it away.
Surrender fear; trust in the Father;
Your mountains will crumble like clay."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Its chilly, dark shadows cast o'er.
Then the strong winds of doubt arrest us,
And blow like they've never before.
The mountain appears it will conquer;
No way in our strength we'll cross o'er.
But the "Son" peaks over the mountain,
Giving grace our faith to restore.
Now at once the ground starts to tremble;
The mountain drops into the sea.
Christ said, "When you trust and surrender,
Nothing's impossible for me."
"Amazing miracles will happen,
Resulting from powerful prayer.
I'll not leave or ever forsake you.
Trust me; I will always be there."
"No mountain can e'er stand before you;
Fervent prayer will blast it away.
Surrender fear; trust in the Father;
Your mountains will crumble like clay."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
APPLES OF GOLD
Oh, never underestimate
The true value of a word;
The power in its healing balm,
To uplift one and engird.
Kind words are like apples of gold
In settings of pure silver,
They heal the soul, renew, make whole,
The downcast soul deliver.
Words have the pow'r of dynamite,
To blast all the walls away
Erected to protect the soul
From harsh words that people say.
There may be times we'll never know
The true healing our words bring,
But a word spoken in kindness
Is so often life changing.
"A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver" (Proverbs 25:11).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
The true value of a word;
The power in its healing balm,
To uplift one and engird.
Kind words are like apples of gold
In settings of pure silver,
They heal the soul, renew, make whole,
The downcast soul deliver.
Words have the pow'r of dynamite,
To blast all the walls away
Erected to protect the soul
From harsh words that people say.
There may be times we'll never know
The true healing our words bring,
But a word spoken in kindness
Is so often life changing.
"A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver" (Proverbs 25:11).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
CLEANSING RAIN
The rain poured down from cloud-covered skies,
Bathing my soul with grief.
I wondered when it would cease to fall,
When I would find relief.
But day by day the harsh cold rain fell,
And clouds released their gloom,
‘Til the rain of tribulation filled
The walls of my safe room.
In despair I sought the Lord in prayer.
And the Lord said, “I’m here!
I am watching every raindrop fall,
And you need never fear.”
“When the rain of tribulation comes,
I’ll let the waters flow.
For they serve to wash away the dross,
And help your spirit grow.”
“Tribulation’s clouds will soon pass o’er,
Dear precious child of mine.
I’ll only allow what’s best for you,
The sun again will shine.”
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Bathing my soul with grief.
I wondered when it would cease to fall,
When I would find relief.
But day by day the harsh cold rain fell,
And clouds released their gloom,
‘Til the rain of tribulation filled
The walls of my safe room.
In despair I sought the Lord in prayer.
And the Lord said, “I’m here!
I am watching every raindrop fall,
And you need never fear.”
“When the rain of tribulation comes,
I’ll let the waters flow.
For they serve to wash away the dross,
And help your spirit grow.”
“Tribulation’s clouds will soon pass o’er,
Dear precious child of mine.
I’ll only allow what’s best for you,
The sun again will shine.”
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A LITTLE CRUMB OF FAITH
Just a little crumb was needed
From the Loaf of Living Bread
To restore the ailing daughter,
So the begging woman pled.
Jesus recognized the woman
And rewarded her request
As she knelt before Him pleading,
Words revealing faith confessed.
It only takes a little crumb,
Faith just like the mustard seed,
For God to hear and answer prayer
And to meet your deepest need.
Just persistent interceding,
With a crumb of faith will do,
For the Lord to heed your pleading,
Fill the hunger deep in you.
"I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry; ...and whoever comes to me I will never drive away" (John 6:35a; 37b).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
From the Loaf of Living Bread
To restore the ailing daughter,
So the begging woman pled.
Jesus recognized the woman
And rewarded her request
As she knelt before Him pleading,
Words revealing faith confessed.
It only takes a little crumb,
Faith just like the mustard seed,
For God to hear and answer prayer
And to meet your deepest need.
Just persistent interceding,
With a crumb of faith will do,
For the Lord to heed your pleading,
Fill the hunger deep in you.
"I am the bread of life. He who comes to me will never go hungry; ...and whoever comes to me I will never drive away" (John 6:35a; 37b).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
AMERICA, BLESS GOD
We have asked God to bless our land from His rich storehouse above;
Some will think it be our right saying, "America He loves."
We've sung "God Bless America" while believing He is here;
But now it is time we bow our heads and seek His face in prayer.
America must bless our God for His hand of love He's shown
Protecting us through per'lous night as His flag of mercy's flown.
His grace He has extended us like a banner hanging o'er;
We must express our gratitude and then praise Him evermore.
America must bless our God for His sure protecting hand,
For walls of safety He has built all around this blessed land.
For as we humbly bless our God as we turn to Him in prayer,
He's assured us by His Living Word His presence will be there.
Our words and deeds let's dedicate to uplift His holy name,
That America not lose her light, her glory turn to shame.
For God said, "If my people will humbly seek my face and pray,
I'll hear from heaven, forgive their sins and heal their land today.
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked way, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land" (II Chron. 7:14).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Some will think it be our right saying, "America He loves."
We've sung "God Bless America" while believing He is here;
But now it is time we bow our heads and seek His face in prayer.
America must bless our God for His hand of love He's shown
Protecting us through per'lous night as His flag of mercy's flown.
His grace He has extended us like a banner hanging o'er;
We must express our gratitude and then praise Him evermore.
America must bless our God for His sure protecting hand,
For walls of safety He has built all around this blessed land.
For as we humbly bless our God as we turn to Him in prayer,
He's assured us by His Living Word His presence will be there.
Our words and deeds let's dedicate to uplift His holy name,
That America not lose her light, her glory turn to shame.
For God said, "If my people will humbly seek my face and pray,
I'll hear from heaven, forgive their sins and heal their land today.
"If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked way, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land" (II Chron. 7:14).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
GOD'S OASIS OF GRACE
Grief overwhelmed me like hot desert sand
Surrounding and scorching my soul;
I sought refuge from the heat of the day,
Cool water to soothe and console.
In the darkness of night God brought comfort,
Relief from sun's blistering rays,
Assuring of bright hope for tomorrow,
Cool waters to comfort my days.
In the morning with bright sun arising,
Reflection of God sparkled clear;
I knew then that He'd heard my heart's deep cry
Reminding of His presence near.
An oasis of grace He provided,
His peace in the desert for me,
A deep pool of life-giving water,
Mercy's sea of tranquility.
I plunged in and drank of His goodness,
Found comfort from His smiling face,
Reflecting in the midst of the desert
On His pool of amazing grace.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Surrounding and scorching my soul;
I sought refuge from the heat of the day,
Cool water to soothe and console.
In the darkness of night God brought comfort,
Relief from sun's blistering rays,
Assuring of bright hope for tomorrow,
Cool waters to comfort my days.
In the morning with bright sun arising,
Reflection of God sparkled clear;
I knew then that He'd heard my heart's deep cry
Reminding of His presence near.
An oasis of grace He provided,
His peace in the desert for me,
A deep pool of life-giving water,
Mercy's sea of tranquility.
I plunged in and drank of His goodness,
Found comfort from His smiling face,
Reflecting in the midst of the desert
On His pool of amazing grace.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A HIGHER CALLING
When Rebekah came to draw water from the well that day,
She did not know she'd meet someone that God had sent her way.
When Joseph arrived in Egypt, a slave he was to be,
He did not know God's designed plan to change his destiny.
When David left his shepherd's field with provisions for his clan,
He did not know that God would have an alternative plan.
When Paul set out with evil thoughts to persecute and kill,
He did not know that God had plans to circumvent his will.
Each one had a higher calling that changed their destiny;
For God had plans to use their lives in ways they could not see.
Rebekah married Isaac from whom a nation grew,
Joseph became a leader and saved his people, too.
David killed a giant and one day became a king;
Paul became Christ's servant and a living offering.
And you have a higher calling; just how will God use you?
He wants to perform miracles if you'll allow him to.
Unordinary outcomes from life's ordinary days.
God's miracles will happen as we trust Him and obey.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
She did not know she'd meet someone that God had sent her way.
When Joseph arrived in Egypt, a slave he was to be,
He did not know God's designed plan to change his destiny.
When David left his shepherd's field with provisions for his clan,
He did not know that God would have an alternative plan.
When Paul set out with evil thoughts to persecute and kill,
He did not know that God had plans to circumvent his will.
Each one had a higher calling that changed their destiny;
For God had plans to use their lives in ways they could not see.
Rebekah married Isaac from whom a nation grew,
Joseph became a leader and saved his people, too.
David killed a giant and one day became a king;
Paul became Christ's servant and a living offering.
And you have a higher calling; just how will God use you?
He wants to perform miracles if you'll allow him to.
Unordinary outcomes from life's ordinary days.
God's miracles will happen as we trust Him and obey.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
DANCING THROUGH LIFE'S MUD PUDDLES
She walked along the old dirt road,
Her weary head bent low;
Despair and sorrow weighed her down;
Her halting steps were slow.
Life delivered its cruel blows
Her spirit to destroy;
Heartache and disappointment came
That robbed her of her joy.
Rain left its muddy puddles there
Along the road she trod;
But as the sun began to rise,
She caught a glimpse God.
Reflecting on the mud puddles
In midst of her despair,
The Glor'ous Son made visible
In moments they would share.
There she witnessed heaven's glory
For God had clearly shown
That life's darkened muddy puddles
Would bring blessings unknown.
Her head uplifted heavenward,
More jubilant her feet,
As she danced through muddy puddles
That lined the rain-drenched street.
Then a song of joyful praises
Resounded through the air,
Rejoicing that life's mud puddles
Reflected God's love there.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Her weary head bent low;
Despair and sorrow weighed her down;
Her halting steps were slow.
Life delivered its cruel blows
Her spirit to destroy;
Heartache and disappointment came
That robbed her of her joy.
Rain left its muddy puddles there
Along the road she trod;
But as the sun began to rise,
She caught a glimpse God.
Reflecting on the mud puddles
In midst of her despair,
The Glor'ous Son made visible
In moments they would share.
There she witnessed heaven's glory
For God had clearly shown
That life's darkened muddy puddles
Would bring blessings unknown.
Her head uplifted heavenward,
More jubilant her feet,
As she danced through muddy puddles
That lined the rain-drenched street.
Then a song of joyful praises
Resounded through the air,
Rejoicing that life's mud puddles
Reflected God's love there.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
SPRINGTIME SOWING
While in the springtime of your life,
Sow the seed and watch it grow.
It is the season when the seed
Will send root down deep below.
Choose only seed that will flower
Into blossoms beauty rare.
Sow them closely so the weed seeds
Cannot ever take root there.
Water the seed with faithfulness,
Cultivate with daily prayer,
Allow the Son to shine on you,
Breathe the Spirit's cleansing air.
Then firmly, when the strong winds blow,
Your strong root will fasten sure;
The flower sunk deep in God's Love
Forevermore will endure.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Sow the seed and watch it grow.
It is the season when the seed
Will send root down deep below.
Choose only seed that will flower
Into blossoms beauty rare.
Sow them closely so the weed seeds
Cannot ever take root there.
Water the seed with faithfulness,
Cultivate with daily prayer,
Allow the Son to shine on you,
Breathe the Spirit's cleansing air.
Then firmly, when the strong winds blow,
Your strong root will fasten sure;
The flower sunk deep in God's Love
Forevermore will endure.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MY ETERNAL HOPE
Some hope in earthly kingdoms
Man builds on sinking sand;
Some hope on borrowed treasures
Which sift through fisted hand.
Some place their trust in others
Whose feet are made of clay;
But they are powerless without
The strength God gives each day.
My hope is placed in hands unseen,
In Christ I rest my trust;
For all on earth that offers hope
Will one day turn to dust.
My eternal hope rests secure
Through all time's earthly tests.
For Christ comes to abide in me;
It's there my soul finds rest.
My trust is placed in Christ alone;
It's here my hope stands sure.
It's sealed and safe from Satan's doom,
A hope that will endure.
"Blessed is he...whose hope is in the Lord his God...the Lord who remains faithful forever" (Ps. 146:5-6).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Man builds on sinking sand;
Some hope on borrowed treasures
Which sift through fisted hand.
Some place their trust in others
Whose feet are made of clay;
But they are powerless without
The strength God gives each day.
My hope is placed in hands unseen,
In Christ I rest my trust;
For all on earth that offers hope
Will one day turn to dust.
My eternal hope rests secure
Through all time's earthly tests.
For Christ comes to abide in me;
It's there my soul finds rest.
My trust is placed in Christ alone;
It's here my hope stands sure.
It's sealed and safe from Satan's doom,
A hope that will endure.
"Blessed is he...whose hope is in the Lord his God...the Lord who remains faithful forever" (Ps. 146:5-6).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
BLOOMING IN THE DESERT
Observe cacti in the desert
In ardent radiant bloom
Though in the midst of arid heat
They depict no sign of gloom.
For the cactus shouts its praises
Through its gift of blossom rare
Reminding us in heated trial
That God’s presence remains there.
Divine blossom of the cactus
Testifies of wondrous grace
God measures in abundance
When desert trials we face.
Like cacti we must ever bloom
Give our praise to God and bless;
For He'll plant a fragrant garden
In our arid wilderness.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
In ardent radiant bloom
Though in the midst of arid heat
They depict no sign of gloom.
For the cactus shouts its praises
Through its gift of blossom rare
Reminding us in heated trial
That God’s presence remains there.
Divine blossom of the cactus
Testifies of wondrous grace
God measures in abundance
When desert trials we face.
Like cacti we must ever bloom
Give our praise to God and bless;
For He'll plant a fragrant garden
In our arid wilderness.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
GOD'S EVERLASTING FAITHFULNESS
So great is our God's faithfulness,
So vast our Father's love,
So marvelous His wondrous works
Portrayed in skies above.
The sun, the moon, the stars declare
And testify each hour;
Each awesome handiwork displayed
Gives witness to His pow'r.
From early dawn to setting sun,
From night to new-born day,
God's everlasting faithfulness
Is always on display.
Though storm clouds often fill our skies
And dim our earthly view,
God's compassions never fail us,
Each day they are anew.
And though the stars refuse to shine,
The moon falls from the sky,
God's mercy and His faithfulness
We never can deny.
So great is our God's faithfulness,
Of this we can be sure,
Forever and forevermore
His mercies will endure.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
So vast our Father's love,
So marvelous His wondrous works
Portrayed in skies above.
The sun, the moon, the stars declare
And testify each hour;
Each awesome handiwork displayed
Gives witness to His pow'r.
From early dawn to setting sun,
From night to new-born day,
God's everlasting faithfulness
Is always on display.
Though storm clouds often fill our skies
And dim our earthly view,
God's compassions never fail us,
Each day they are anew.
And though the stars refuse to shine,
The moon falls from the sky,
God's mercy and His faithfulness
We never can deny.
So great is our God's faithfulness,
Of this we can be sure,
Forever and forevermore
His mercies will endure.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
GENTLE JESUS
Gentle Jesus, full of mercy, poured out free on Calv'ry's Hill,
Timeless story we have treasured, wondrous truth amazes still.
Gentle Jesus, how we love Thee, forfeit all to claim Your Name,
Renounce the world, all its glory; give up praise and earthly fame.
Gentle Jesus, how we ponder why You left Your throne above.
Who can understand such suff'ring? Who can fathom such great love?
Gentle Jesus, You're amazing, hearts cannot contain such grace,
Why You bore our pain and sorrow, why You suffered our disgrace.
Gentle Jesus, man's forgiver, washes clean our guilt and stain,
Returns prodigals who've wandered back to Father's arms again.
Gentle Jesus, who is like Thee? None can satisfy man's soul.
None can fill our heart's deep longing, none but You can make us whole.
Gentle Jesus, make us like Thee, humble us to servitude.
Pour us out as Love's great off'ring, showing heart-felt gratitude.
Gentle Jesus, all we offer, all we ever hope to be,
Is surrendered to your Spirit; transform us to be like Thee.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Timeless story we have treasured, wondrous truth amazes still.
Gentle Jesus, how we love Thee, forfeit all to claim Your Name,
Renounce the world, all its glory; give up praise and earthly fame.
Gentle Jesus, how we ponder why You left Your throne above.
Who can understand such suff'ring? Who can fathom such great love?
Gentle Jesus, You're amazing, hearts cannot contain such grace,
Why You bore our pain and sorrow, why You suffered our disgrace.
Gentle Jesus, man's forgiver, washes clean our guilt and stain,
Returns prodigals who've wandered back to Father's arms again.
Gentle Jesus, who is like Thee? None can satisfy man's soul.
None can fill our heart's deep longing, none but You can make us whole.
Gentle Jesus, make us like Thee, humble us to servitude.
Pour us out as Love's great off'ring, showing heart-felt gratitude.
Gentle Jesus, all we offer, all we ever hope to be,
Is surrendered to your Spirit; transform us to be like Thee.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WALKING THROUGH THE FOG
"Will you follow?" asked the Master. "Yes, Lord, I'll walk with you.
But the path that you have chosen is enshrouded from my view.
Dense fog hangs like a curtain to conceal the light of day.
How will I know which way to walk? How will I find my way?
There may be holes to stumble in; you know, Lord, how I'm weak.
Can we walk the sun-lit pathway that is not so drear and bleak?"
God smiled and said, "What oft appears by eye to be the best,
Deceives and leads to barren land and offers no soul's rest.
While walking through enshrouded fog I'll stay in front of you.
I know the way ~ do not dismay, for My hand will guide you through.
This is the only path to take; Faith's Highway you must trod.
While others choose the sun-lit path, it's here you'll walk with God.
The 'how?' should not concern you as you walk on Faith's Highway.
Remember, I'm the Light of the World; I also am The Way.
So trust Me and follow close, I'll exchange your faith for sight.
For where I lead is endless joy and everlasting light. "
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
But the path that you have chosen is enshrouded from my view.
Dense fog hangs like a curtain to conceal the light of day.
How will I know which way to walk? How will I find my way?
There may be holes to stumble in; you know, Lord, how I'm weak.
Can we walk the sun-lit pathway that is not so drear and bleak?"
God smiled and said, "What oft appears by eye to be the best,
Deceives and leads to barren land and offers no soul's rest.
While walking through enshrouded fog I'll stay in front of you.
I know the way ~ do not dismay, for My hand will guide you through.
This is the only path to take; Faith's Highway you must trod.
While others choose the sun-lit path, it's here you'll walk with God.
The 'how?' should not concern you as you walk on Faith's Highway.
Remember, I'm the Light of the World; I also am The Way.
So trust Me and follow close, I'll exchange your faith for sight.
For where I lead is endless joy and everlasting light. "
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
POURED OUT
My life was like murky waters
That filled the quiet pond,
Motionless, yet satisfied,
No thought of time beyond.
Then God reached down and scooped me up,
Began to pour me out
Into the streams that moved ahead
O’er jagged rocks about.
“What are you doing? Can’t you see
These rocks are very rough?
Lord, when I filled the quiet pool,
My life was not so tough.”
God said, “Trust me and you will see,
One day you’ll understand,
That though these rocks may cause some pain
There is a better plan.
For when you filled the stagnant pond
So void of discipline
And thought that all was well and good,
Pollution settled in.
Before you rested satisfied,
Your waters never ran;
Soon you’ll immerge so pure and clean
To quench the soul of man.
You’ll blend with the Living Water
That satisfies man’s soul;
Others will drink and be refreshed,
Be renewed and made whole.
So patiently endure the pain,
That’s so misunderstood;
Sometimes the rough path is the best
And works out for your good."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
That filled the quiet pond,
Motionless, yet satisfied,
No thought of time beyond.
Then God reached down and scooped me up,
Began to pour me out
Into the streams that moved ahead
O’er jagged rocks about.
“What are you doing? Can’t you see
These rocks are very rough?
Lord, when I filled the quiet pool,
My life was not so tough.”
God said, “Trust me and you will see,
One day you’ll understand,
That though these rocks may cause some pain
There is a better plan.
For when you filled the stagnant pond
So void of discipline
And thought that all was well and good,
Pollution settled in.
Before you rested satisfied,
Your waters never ran;
Soon you’ll immerge so pure and clean
To quench the soul of man.
You’ll blend with the Living Water
That satisfies man’s soul;
Others will drink and be refreshed,
Be renewed and made whole.
So patiently endure the pain,
That’s so misunderstood;
Sometimes the rough path is the best
And works out for your good."
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
TREASURES IN THE NIGHT
Hidden blessings awaited me
My heart did crave to find,
Not treasures held in human hands,
These were a special kind.
I searched when sun was high and bright,
But they eluded me;
I climbed up to the mountaintop,
Searched down in low valley.
But as the sun was sinking low,
With darkness drawing nigh,
I felt my heart sink in despair
And I began to sigh.
What could I find as darkness fell?
'Twas difficult to see;
But God said, "Lift your eyes, My child,
Take My hand, walk with Me."
The blackened sky up overhead
Was oh so clear and bright,
And there God revealed His treasures
In absence of the light.
Diamonds bejeweled the velvet sky
Concealed by bright sunlight;
God said, "These are special blessings
Revealed in dark of night."
"Faith sparkles brightest when all light
Is dimmed from human eye~
When your heart is filled with questions
Of Who? What? When? and Why?"
"There are jewels in the darkness
For those who walk with Me;
Faith's rich treasures," said the Father
"That'll last eternally."
"I will give you the treasure of darkness and hidden wealth of secret places, so that you may know that it is I, the LORD, the God of Israel, who calls you by name"
(Is. 45:3).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
My heart did crave to find,
Not treasures held in human hands,
These were a special kind.
I searched when sun was high and bright,
But they eluded me;
I climbed up to the mountaintop,
Searched down in low valley.
But as the sun was sinking low,
With darkness drawing nigh,
I felt my heart sink in despair
And I began to sigh.
What could I find as darkness fell?
'Twas difficult to see;
But God said, "Lift your eyes, My child,
Take My hand, walk with Me."
The blackened sky up overhead
Was oh so clear and bright,
And there God revealed His treasures
In absence of the light.
Diamonds bejeweled the velvet sky
Concealed by bright sunlight;
God said, "These are special blessings
Revealed in dark of night."
"Faith sparkles brightest when all light
Is dimmed from human eye~
When your heart is filled with questions
Of Who? What? When? and Why?"
"There are jewels in the darkness
For those who walk with Me;
Faith's rich treasures," said the Father
"That'll last eternally."
"I will give you the treasure of darkness and hidden wealth of secret places, so that you may know that it is I, the LORD, the God of Israel, who calls you by name"
(Is. 45:3).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
MAN OF SORROWS
This Man of Sorrows, Christ was He,
Who bore our guilt and shame,
The precious Lord, the Son of God,
On Him was laid our blame.
Each labored step of suffering,
Our sin and shame bore He,
This Man of Sorrows bled and died
For our iniquities.
Though oppressed and so afflicted,
By His stripes we are healed;
His punishment that brought us peace,
Our fate forever sealed.
Mercy and grace unmerited,
Such love beyond degree,
Extended to the vilest soul
From Christ on Calvary.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Who bore our guilt and shame,
The precious Lord, the Son of God,
On Him was laid our blame.
Each labored step of suffering,
Our sin and shame bore He,
This Man of Sorrows bled and died
For our iniquities.
Though oppressed and so afflicted,
By His stripes we are healed;
His punishment that brought us peace,
Our fate forever sealed.
Mercy and grace unmerited,
Such love beyond degree,
Extended to the vilest soul
From Christ on Calvary.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
A CHANNEL OF GOD'S GRACE
Father, early in the morning I arise to seek Your face,
To dip my cup in reservoirs of Your amazing grace;
I will drink until your mercy fills my heart to overflow
And spills onto some wanting soul who craves Your love to know.
There are many dry and thirsty, who are parched from need of Thee,
Who yearn for Living Water, a cool drink from Love's mercy.
So fill me, Lord, up to the brim, let Your waters spill o'er me,
Flooding some arid, sin-dried soul, I ask so prayerfully.
Lord, please make my life a channel of Your mercy and Your grace
To let Your hope flow through my life as each new day I face.
And may others drink Your water that will daily flow through me,
Creating an oasis that will quench eternally.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
To dip my cup in reservoirs of Your amazing grace;
I will drink until your mercy fills my heart to overflow
And spills onto some wanting soul who craves Your love to know.
There are many dry and thirsty, who are parched from need of Thee,
Who yearn for Living Water, a cool drink from Love's mercy.
So fill me, Lord, up to the brim, let Your waters spill o'er me,
Flooding some arid, sin-dried soul, I ask so prayerfully.
Lord, please make my life a channel of Your mercy and Your grace
To let Your hope flow through my life as each new day I face.
And may others drink Your water that will daily flow through me,
Creating an oasis that will quench eternally.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
LOVE'S EMBRACE
Amazing Love embraces me,
No human words define,
Enfolded in the arms of Grace
As heart to heart entwine.
I drink from Love's sweet reservoir,
I bathe in Mercy's pool,
I surface cleansed from stains of guilt,
From depths immeasur'ble.
Amazing Grace! 'Tis sweet to taste,
Love's hunger satisfies;
No human joy can e'er replace,
Nor calm the soul's heart cries.
This Love holds fast with clutching grasp,
Encircles to secure,
To bind me in this life below
With cords that will endure.
It is God's Love and God's alone,
Man's love cannot compete,
My heart content with joy instilled,
My life is made complete.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
No human words define,
Enfolded in the arms of Grace
As heart to heart entwine.
I drink from Love's sweet reservoir,
I bathe in Mercy's pool,
I surface cleansed from stains of guilt,
From depths immeasur'ble.
Amazing Grace! 'Tis sweet to taste,
Love's hunger satisfies;
No human joy can e'er replace,
Nor calm the soul's heart cries.
This Love holds fast with clutching grasp,
Encircles to secure,
To bind me in this life below
With cords that will endure.
It is God's Love and God's alone,
Man's love cannot compete,
My heart content with joy instilled,
My life is made complete.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
LIFE'S COZY CHAIR
Too often we feel "comfy"
In life's reclining chair;
We lie back and grow lazy
Without a single care.
While all 'round our neighborhood
Hurt souls in distress call,
We oft recline in our chairs
Apologetical.
"We need our rest." "We've worked hard."
"This chair feels mighty fine."
"I'll leave the job for others
While cozy I recline."
Yet one day we'll answer for
Each hour we have laid
Reclined in life's cozy chair,
No thought of others made.
So Lord deliv'r us from seats
Of comfort and of ease;
Lead us to discipleship
That starts on bended knees.
Change our heart, O Lord, to do
The work You'd have us do;
Then we will find perfect rest
Rewarded serving You.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
In life's reclining chair;
We lie back and grow lazy
Without a single care.
While all 'round our neighborhood
Hurt souls in distress call,
We oft recline in our chairs
Apologetical.
"We need our rest." "We've worked hard."
"This chair feels mighty fine."
"I'll leave the job for others
While cozy I recline."
Yet one day we'll answer for
Each hour we have laid
Reclined in life's cozy chair,
No thought of others made.
So Lord deliv'r us from seats
Of comfort and of ease;
Lead us to discipleship
That starts on bended knees.
Change our heart, O Lord, to do
The work You'd have us do;
Then we will find perfect rest
Rewarded serving You.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
FREE TO BE IN 2003
Free to be in 2,003
All God would have me to be;
Free to walk an untraveled road,
Free to live differently.
Free to surrender resentments,
Free to cling tight to hope's grasp,
Free to loosen the chains of guilt,
Free to clutch faith and hold fast.
Free to close doors on past failures,
Free to press full straight ahead,
Free to go where I've not journeyed,
Free to face fears I so dread.
Free to take flight with the eagles,
Free to ascend high above,
Free to grow in the grace of God,
Free to forgive, free to love.
Free to reach out for the rainbow,
Free to let Christ live through me,
Free to bring light to our dark world,
Free in Two-Thousand and Three.
"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 3:13b-14).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
All God would have me to be;
Free to walk an untraveled road,
Free to live differently.
Free to surrender resentments,
Free to cling tight to hope's grasp,
Free to loosen the chains of guilt,
Free to clutch faith and hold fast.
Free to close doors on past failures,
Free to press full straight ahead,
Free to go where I've not journeyed,
Free to face fears I so dread.
Free to take flight with the eagles,
Free to ascend high above,
Free to grow in the grace of God,
Free to forgive, free to love.
Free to reach out for the rainbow,
Free to let Christ live through me,
Free to bring light to our dark world,
Free in Two-Thousand and Three.
"Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 3:13b-14).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
LIFE'S HOURGLASS
So eas'ly do our grains of sand
Flow through the narrow pass
To quickly fill the bottom globe
Of our life's hourglass.
We cannot slow the rapid flow,
The grains move much too fast,
It seems before life's e're begun
Our time has quickly passed.
Inscribed on ev'ry grain of sand
Are deeds of life lived here;
What we've done with time bestowed
Will be recorded there.
Everything we've done for Christ,
Every kindly deed,
Is etched upon each grain of sand.
How will our journal read?
We only have one life to live,
How quickly time will flee,
What will each grain of sand disclose?
What will they say 'bout me?
"Show me, O LORD , my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life” (Psalm 39:4).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
Flow through the narrow pass
To quickly fill the bottom globe
Of our life's hourglass.
We cannot slow the rapid flow,
The grains move much too fast,
It seems before life's e're begun
Our time has quickly passed.
Inscribed on ev'ry grain of sand
Are deeds of life lived here;
What we've done with time bestowed
Will be recorded there.
Everything we've done for Christ,
Every kindly deed,
Is etched upon each grain of sand.
How will our journal read?
We only have one life to live,
How quickly time will flee,
What will each grain of sand disclose?
What will they say 'bout me?
"Show me, O LORD , my life's end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting is my life” (Psalm 39:4).
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
WHERE CAN I FIND CHRISTMAS?
Tell me, where can I find Christmas?
I really want to know.
I've looked in every shopping mall,
I've searched both high and low.
I cannot find the answer
Under any Christmas tree.
Oh, who can tell me where to look,
Just where might Christmas be?
I was 'bout to cease the search
When a frail man did appear
And asked, "Oh, may I help you child?
The answer's very clear."
"You'll not find the gift of Christmas
Looking outside, you see,
For Christmas dwells within our heart--
It's found in you and me."
"For on the day when Christ is born
Anew within our heart,
He said, "Each day we'll celebrate.
My joy I will impart."
"Christ gives the gift of Christmas
That will last the whole year through.
For when Christ is born within your heart
Christmas lives in you."
I bowed and asked The Christ Child
To be born again in me.
And I ceased my search for Christmas
For Christmas dwelt in me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
I really want to know.
I've looked in every shopping mall,
I've searched both high and low.
I cannot find the answer
Under any Christmas tree.
Oh, who can tell me where to look,
Just where might Christmas be?
I was 'bout to cease the search
When a frail man did appear
And asked, "Oh, may I help you child?
The answer's very clear."
"You'll not find the gift of Christmas
Looking outside, you see,
For Christmas dwells within our heart--
It's found in you and me."
"For on the day when Christ is born
Anew within our heart,
He said, "Each day we'll celebrate.
My joy I will impart."
"Christ gives the gift of Christmas
That will last the whole year through.
For when Christ is born within your heart
Christmas lives in you."
I bowed and asked The Christ Child
To be born again in me.
And I ceased my search for Christmas
For Christmas dwelt in me.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
PERFECT PEACE
When drowning in pain and heartache
And submerged in seas of deep grief,
Walking 'cross our troubled waters,
Jesus calms and brings us relief.
He offers us abundant life,
Gives joy for our sadness and tears,
When life's swelling tides o'erwhelm us,
His comforting presence appears.
He'll not let us drown-He's promised!
Love's arms will caress and surround,
He'll always be there to rescue --
Replacing our feet on dry ground.
Though life has its sea of troubles,
Clouds form and storm winds fiercely blow,
If we place trust in our Savior,
Fierce currents won't drag us below.
Life's sea of troubles will grow calm,
Where there walks the Savior of Men,
For He'll deliver from our storm,
Restoring us peace once again.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And submerged in seas of deep grief,
Walking 'cross our troubled waters,
Jesus calms and brings us relief.
He offers us abundant life,
Gives joy for our sadness and tears,
When life's swelling tides o'erwhelm us,
His comforting presence appears.
He'll not let us drown-He's promised!
Love's arms will caress and surround,
He'll always be there to rescue --
Replacing our feet on dry ground.
Though life has its sea of troubles,
Clouds form and storm winds fiercely blow,
If we place trust in our Savior,
Fierce currents won't drag us below.
Life's sea of troubles will grow calm,
Where there walks the Savior of Men,
For He'll deliver from our storm,
Restoring us peace once again.
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
HEAVEN'S LIGHT (Christmas Poem)
The purest light from Heaven descended as a child,
And all angelic hosts above proclaimed man reconciled.
"Peace on earth, good will to men--Glory to God on high!"
The angel choir resounded praise that filled the starry sky.
Christ was born in Bethlehem--the long-awaited King;
Their anthem swelled to fill the air, glad praises they did sing.
Shepherds watching flocks by night, enthralled by Heaven's song,
Were captivated by the sight of this angelic throng.
Hastily they made their path to welcome our new king;
The Light and Hope of all the world--salvation He would bring.
By the hay-filled throne they knelt amazed and filled with awe
Of all their eyes had witnessed there--grand miracles they saw.
They left their sanctuary forevermore transformed,
Reflecting there amongst themselves how they were strangely warmed.
This light from God filled their hearts, transcending human joy,
And oh the hope that God had wrapped up in this baby boy.
Good news--"The Light's finally come!"--the shepherds they did cry.
They ran to share the blessed news--
"Salvation draweth nigh!"
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
And all angelic hosts above proclaimed man reconciled.
"Peace on earth, good will to men--Glory to God on high!"
The angel choir resounded praise that filled the starry sky.
Christ was born in Bethlehem--the long-awaited King;
Their anthem swelled to fill the air, glad praises they did sing.
Shepherds watching flocks by night, enthralled by Heaven's song,
Were captivated by the sight of this angelic throng.
Hastily they made their path to welcome our new king;
The Light and Hope of all the world--salvation He would bring.
By the hay-filled throne they knelt amazed and filled with awe
Of all their eyes had witnessed there--grand miracles they saw.
They left their sanctuary forevermore transformed,
Reflecting there amongst themselves how they were strangely warmed.
This light from God filled their hearts, transcending human joy,
And oh the hope that God had wrapped up in this baby boy.
Good news--"The Light's finally come!"--the shepherds they did cry.
They ran to share the blessed news--
"Salvation draweth nigh!"
Copyrighted by Linda J. Stevenson.
For permission to use, please contact: Ljstevenson1@juno.com
FAMILY MUSIC RESOURCES: www.MaryRiceHopkins.com
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