Reconciled, then fostering peace

So vast the chasm, huge the rift
between pure goodness, love, and they
who on his earth carelessly drift
and no respect or rental pay.

He gave them much, and often spared
though few gave thought to make request;
their folly grieved him, for he cared
and knew their loss, they lacked the best.

What could he do? the rift was great.
Could they be healed and reconciled,
brought into such a holy state
that each could be his friend, his child?

He spoke, he came, he took their place
to pay the price for all their sin;
his Spirit moved their hearts in grace
to humbly turn, return to him.

And those who did, shunned squabbling
and malice, selfishness and greed,
all hatred, and proud babbling:
to foster peace they’d now been freed!
Tune: LM

Growing

May I while given these new days
more fully follow Jesus,
more faithfully reflect his ways,
his grace and love that frees us.

I do desire above all to
each day more fully know him,
and be transformed in all I do,
more like him daily growing.

Tune: 87 87 iambic eg Dominus Regit Me by J Dykes (tune of ‘The King of love my Shepherd is’)

Cared For

They know their Master’s voice
– that voice has safely led
each one aware he knows their name,
and by him they are fed,

They follow at his call,
and heed his every word,
they know he knows the way ahead,
and all their prayers are heard.

He glances round the stars,
far mightier is he,
and yet he cares for foolish sheep
and comforts lovingly.
Tune: SM

“I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me.”
John  10:14

Rulers judged too – Rule kindly!

on Psalm 82

For God assesses and is just,
he’s Judge of every nation,
he’s righteous and omniscient;
with perfect comprehension.

So, you who judge today, and rule, –
for truth you should be caring
(the founding principles for earth) –
an awesome role you’re bearing.

See schemes against the poor, the weak:
defend them from oppression
by wicked people – don’t excuse
the cruel exploitation.

Remember you will die quite soon,
like other men, appear
before God’s throne to give account:
so serve in godly fear.

Tune: 87 87 or 87 87 D