A look of love and tenderness,
an analysing view,
perceptively exposing need:
assessment wise and true.

With eager run, in hope of help,
this man came with his lack;
unconscious of the obstacle
that really held him back.

Christ saw his self-sufficiency,
his wealth’s security,
revealed the needed shift of trust, –
child-like simplicity.

The ruler didn’t remonstrate,
but turned away, aware, –
perceiving now the obstacle:
the cost he could not bear.

Would he return? that love has power
to help him to give in:
there can be no half-heartedness, –
trust Christ in everything.

(Ephesians 1:19-23)
Jesus was raised by God’s great might,
raised from the dead to realms of Light;
Head of the church at God’s right hand, –
mighty the power at his command.
Power, help when I’m tempted,
power, when I’m afflicted.
Power to help me fight my sin; –
come and receive, draw near to him.

Christ is above all earthly kings,
far above all the awesome things;
see his great glory, more and more,
let him empower you from his store.

Christ will present his church complete, –
nothing his purpose will defeat;
everything works for this design; –
power for holiness is mine.
Tune: More about Jesus

Mark 6:17-28
Herod, full of greed, immoral,
selfish, careless of his need,
no concern for things immortal,
gave to laws divine no heed;
but when John came, speaking boldly, –
words to warn, convict, obey, –
though he realised John was holy,
he did not repent and pray.

But the woman was embittered,
didn’t want to change her life,
or from sin to be unfettered, –
strong the influence of a wife!
Herod knew that John was righteous,
though he had him put in jail; –
kept from killing John by conscience, –
sin remained: resolve would fail.

Feasting, crowds can dull the conscience,
and provoke impulsive vows;
lustful passions smother prudence,
pride hates loss of face, allows
unjust deed of execution; –
evil friends unhelpful prove. –
Flee perverting conversation; –
find salvation, grace and love.

Tune: 87 87 D

The water was changed into wine, –
a quiet, miraculous sign,
and those who were following saw, believed
the glory of Jesus revealed.
Miraculous signs that were clear
for all to observe and admire,
but yet only those
who loved him chose
to trust him with godly fear.

The 5000 men were all fed,
but Christ could give more than that bread. –
How few people followed, his words believed,
and Life in the Saviour received.

Miraculous signs were made known,
that we might believe in the Son,
and know who he is, and have Life in him,
eternally saved from our sin.