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Open Poetry #26
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VAS
Member Rara Avis
since 2000-11-16
Posts 7450
Oregon

0 posted 2003-04-27 06:21 PM


Temper Me

Temper me, oh, Lord,
as You handle
the clay of me
moisten me
with the tears
of my living
soothe me
with the balm
of Your Word

Then, Lord,
when I’m formed,
allow me
to come through
the fire
of perfection’s
finishing

To become
a completed vessel
that will sing
Your beauty
when my heart is
tapped or touched
by life

©April 27, 2003

The above was inspired by a sermon message given by Scott Zielke, Hermiston, OR. He had been inspired by a letter from a friend discussing a section of Max Lucado’s book that included “Thump, Thud; Thump, Thud.” This article had to do with the thud of an unfinished piece of pottery when it is thumped, and the “singing” of a finished piece when thumped.

Isaiah 64:8 ...we are the clay, You are the Potter; we are all the work of your hand.

James 1:2-4 Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. (New International Version)


Whether on the shoal or on the shore,
I'll seek the lighthouse evermore.

[This message has been edited by VAS (04-27-2003 06:22 PM).]

© Copyright 2003 Virginia Salter - All Rights Reserved
Ericc
Member Elite
since 2003-01-31
Posts 4178

1 posted 2003-04-27 06:37 PM


Amen.
A beautiful prayer vision.
Eric

regards2you
Member Elite
since 2002-10-01
Posts 3940
California
2 posted 2003-04-27 07:08 PM




Virginia,

This is beautiful and eloquently written. And quite accurate indeed. (I use the NIV, myself). So sensitive to "the word" and well meaning. And, I wouldn't have thought twice about this and stopped my message here. That it was as easy as it sounds.

And, I am familiar with Max Lucado's multiple books. Very wise and uplifting, I've given them as gifts..

Yet, recently,  having had my heart feel like it hasn't so much been tapped or touched but ripped out to the roots of my soul, I have to say when going through such storms, we (I am) are blinded to anything but the pain; the very last thing I can do is Praise God!!!

It is often the test of perseverance of those who gather with understanding and devoted support no matter the time it takes; so perseverance touches many from the forming of one pot...That God! He wastes nothing, and may we all learn the lesson well, for none are excluded from the firing.

I appreciate the knowledge you have shared here, Vas...I do enjoy your poetry.

Hugs and love, Pat

..without surrender, be on good terms with all persons..
        "Desiderata"

VAS
Member Rara Avis
since 2000-11-16
Posts 7450
Oregon
3 posted 2003-04-27 07:23 PM


Thank you all, and Pat, here is the poem I wrote this morning at home prior to leaving for church.

Bathing in Serenity, Foiled by My Mind

This morning relaxation
has such a soothing caress
upon the soul of me

bathing me in rising sunlight
cooling me with drifting clouds
washing me with newness of spirit

yet
as the caffeine takes hold
an edge of urgency begins
a sense of reality scratches my serenity

reminding me
of undone things
unresolved promises
unsolved dilemmas

a tear touches the corner
of my eye
and seeps into the ticking seconds
that claw at me

how do I meet it all
how do I make my mark,
a dent, upon that which is awaiting my touch

that which is expected of me
by others,
and, Lord, especially by You?

How do I stop waiting for your truth,
and open my eyes
to see it?

©April 27, 2003

Whether on the shoal or on the shore,
I'll seek the lighthouse evermore.

Nightshade
Deputy Moderator 5 ToursDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 TourDeputy Moderator 1 Tour
Member Patricius
since 2001-08-31
Posts 13962
just out of reach
4 posted 2003-04-27 07:43 PM


Wonderful, inspirational words Virginia. hugs, Chris

"Hope" is the thing with feathers-
that perches in the soul....
                  
                       -Emily Dickinson

regards2you
Member Elite
since 2002-10-01
Posts 3940
California
5 posted 2003-04-28 10:56 AM




Virginia,

Just beautiful!  The Light shines through you.

Enjoyed greatly...as I am sure ~He~ did...for bringing His messages...

Hugs to you and sorry missed this yesterday...

Thank you, Pat

..without surrender, be on good terms with all persons..
        "Desiderata"

Earth Angel
Member Empyrean
since 2002-08-27
Posts 40215
Realms of Light
6 posted 2003-04-28 11:28 AM


Both of your poems, the one you posted and the one you posted as a reply, are spiritually moving and are fine examples of your graceful writing.

God bless you, Dear One,
Linda

JamesMichael
Member Empyrean
since 1999-11-16
Posts 33336
Kapolei, Hawaii, USA
7 posted 2003-04-28 04:17 PM


Enjoyed...James
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