Inexpressible Joy Continuous Plain 12 14 10

Inexpressible joy
I’m free!
W hen I tell my feet, “Go!”
They go.
W hen I tell my thoughts, “Stop!”
They do.
W hen I say that I’m happy,
It’s true!
My head says, “I love you.”

My heart says it too.
My head and my heart now agree.
Just as Truth promised … I’m free!
Possessions are dust;

Thank you’s– too small;
Eternity’s not long enough
To measure Your Love
By the Deep’s deepest grace.
“Take freely what’s already Yours!”
From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

By Genelle Allen; Copyright 2005; visit www.VisionCry.org
Inexpressible joy
Is the fruit
Of a journey
Through pain’s darkest darkness.
No one could have been more surprised

Than I,
To come through it and yet be here,
To come through it with understanding,
To just come through it!
Sometimes hope has been invested

For such a long time
That we lose the expectation of seeing what was hoped for, come to pass,
And begin to think that every good thing must wait for heaven.
It must wait for heaven,

God’s throne room,
To be recognized
Within us, our bodies,
The temple of His Holy Spirit,
As He establishes His reign,
His kingdom, come,
Within us.
Oh, what a gift it is to be known by our Creator, inside and out,

And then discover
He loves me!

List of Poems
A Christmas mirror 15 I saw the song 34
A little tummy song 13 I see His feet 38
And now it is written 24 Love letters 11
… and I rose 43 Love so great it shows 33
… and then the music bowed 25 Lover’s inn, The 29
… and there you are, my friend 41 My family 40
Autumn’s song 42 Potter’s wheel, The 28
Bethlehem glow, The 39 Princess child, The 20
Bond of peace, The 9 Resurrection seed, The 19
Crystal lace 6 She shines 30
Diamond dust 17 So smile, little princess 16
eh hem … 18 Tender mercies 36
Eternity in your eyes 26 There is a Bethlehem 31
giver, the 37 There is a quiet 32
Glad Tidings of Great Joy 7 thirty-nine plus one 44
Happy is the man 27 … when it’s very, very still 21
hello, little baby 8 When Jesus was a baby 14
I’d rather be wounded 5 While the mighty lion yawned 12
If you had been my brother 35 Who can know? 22
Into your hands 10 Wisdom of a child, The 23

…I’d rather be wounded
“This problem is most serious. Will wound Your holy heart,
The penalty is death, You know. Though man can start again.”
I cannot change the God I AM
Or give man laws for show.” “My Father,
Well Thou knowest
“Oh, Father, holy, kind and just, That though
It was all for My Name’s sake! The cost be great,
If life for life’s the answer, The radiance of Your Glory
Then I pray My blood to take.” Will open man’s Life gate.”
“Do you fully understand “I love You, Son.

What darkness grows in hearts of sin? You will succeed.
The battle will be fierce, my Son, It is already done.
Though love can only win.” My heart is weeping tears.
Be blessed to go, My Son, My Son.
What better way to show them Go now, My joy, My Son.”
The great I AM You are
Than to heal them “I praise You,
Through My blood Gracious Father.
And draw them from afar. Though I hate to leave
This place,
“O precious Son, the pain! …I’d rather be wounded
To bear the shame of sin Than lose one child of grace.”
Crystal Lace
Morning melds the splendor of the Son’s light and warming glow
W ith the radiance of God’s glory–Christ Jesus, the King, has come.
Tints of fading blue and advancing hues of fire dance furtively on delicate flakes of crystal lace.
Darkness recedes to cower at the edges of the deep.
It is dawn.
There stirs anticipation of some great mystery to be revealed.
A deep awareness of a penetrating peace enhances a growing sensitivity to all creation.
W hat has changed?
The twitter of sparrows, joyous in their urging call, draws the eye to the clear blue of heaven.
Enveloping the earth in swaddling folds of tenderness, yet beyond one’s grasp, it invites
Intimate fellowship in the thrown room of Heaven.
There am I stilled and quieted as I rest upon the footstool of the Almighty.
I wait.
W hat does it mean? My heart begins to race to the rhythm of an inner thunder.
It’s reigned power is stayed by a word… by the W ord.
As He wells within, and with sweet overflow of my heart He passes through my lips:
“In the beginning was the W ord… ” (Jn 1:1) The W ord is Jesus! It is He who graces this day!
“Christ has become our peace with God ...!” (Eph 2:14)
I embrace the newly laid snow and study the wonders of this covering of grace, white and pure.
I consider the water from which it was formed, still present, responding and revealing itself
to Any warm reception.
Broken water – fragmented com pletely to expose the vulnerable beauty of Crystal Lace – the
Very heart of love.
He has come.

Glad Tidings Of Great Joy
A mother births and bears all things Oh let the river flow.
Brings forth the deep with her heartstrings Hold fast! Then let it go.
She tends little ones, gifts of the Father, Send light that men may know
Drawing from His springs of living water He’s in control
Oh let the river flow. Her eye’s upon the manger child
Hold fast! Then let it go. She knows the W ord, both meek and mild
Send light that men may know She’s standing firm on hallowed ground
He’s in control And spreads her wings for those around
Before dawn kisses the morning dew Oh let the river flow.
There’s much to teach of all that’s true Hold fast! Then let it go.
She bows in prayer before the throne Send light that men may know
Tends well the lambs before they’re grown He’s in control
Oh let the river flow. Rejoice! Cry ‘Glory’! Rejoice!

Hold fast! Then let it go. The spirit of love has found its voice
Send light that men may know Hails one true King amidst the throng
He’s in control Immanuel bears Love’s true song
Come from the east! Come from the west, Oh let the river flow.
The north and south, you’ll now be blest! Hold fast! Then let it go.
Gather them in, your sons and daughters Send light that men may know
Safe from the snares of dark marauders He’s in control
Glad tidings of great Joy! Joy! Joy!

Glad tidings of great Joy!
Glad tidings of great Joy!

hello, little baby
“hello, little baby,”
I’m glad you’ve finally come
I’ve been awaiting your arrival
I can see you are the one!
What wonder I behold

As I look upon your face!
Through you has come My Father’s love,
A special gift of grace.
Excitement stirs my heart

As I seek the gift You’ve brought.
All packaged up within You
Is all the love I’ve sought.
I wonder how He did it

To make all of His love fit!
Right inside You, tiny one,
A holy fire’s been lit.
“hello, little baby,

I love you now, some more.”
“Thank you, Lord, for opening
Your love through grace’s door.”
The bond of peace
Snuggled in beneath his arm The baby stirred, she awakened.
She sleeps, he sleeps–they’re one. Light from heaven seemed to bathe
Between them lay the promise, Him, This mighty seed
Messiah, God’s own Son. From God’s own heart.
She pondered now, her part.
The quiet is so deep
It stirs him from his sleep. “What can it mean? His coming!
A promise comes to life Such hope I’ve never known!
In a blessing through his wife. How shall we ever raise him?
What’s to be done
A promise made to have and hold When He’s grown?”
Grew from his heart of love.
Though unforeseen what that would mean, Her heart grew strangely peaceful
He knew it pure, from that above, As quiet filled her inner deep;
“Most gracious Lord,
“Love this child, and I’ll love yours,” What ere You will.”
It seemed the quiet spoke. And then she fell asleep.
A strange thing He was asking:
Bear this light and gentle yoke. Snuggled in beneath His arm
She sleeps, he sleeps–they’re one.
“I will,” his spirit answered, Between them lay the promise,
“To such honor I’ll be true.” Messiah, God’s own Son.
Then as he closed his sleepy eyes,
He heard, “Son, I love you.”
O, children of His promise, rest in the covering of His fleece,

For He has joined Himself to you through Christ, the bond of peace.
. . . into your hands
Hush! Can you hear it? He’s wrapped in clothes of light;
Again! Hear it come? Time carries Him to the cross
Ohhh, such a quiet. Exchanging sin for Life.
He’s given you His Son! I count this world but loss.
What stirs the heart of Love Hush! Can you see it?
To think so marvelous a thought? He’s sitting on His throne!
What moves the mighty deep He’s left a narrow trail of love
To give all that He has got? To follow Him back home.
The thought becomes a seed Ohhh! Such quiet fills my soul!

The seed, a manger babe. I can hear all heaven’s bands!
Whatever was He thinking The child You sent to train me up
As in my arms He laid? I commit … into Your hands.
Little baby boy,

The Father’s only Son,
This mother’s child for but a while
Until His work is done.
love letters
J ust a moment longer; perhaps it’s on its way.

Surely someone out there has written me today.
E very Christmas blessing began with seeds of joy.

Each letter that is written bears the love of ‘manger’ boy.
S hining through my window I can see His wondrous light.

No letter has been written like the one He wrote that night.
U nder every Christmas tree a gift of love lays still.

No gift wrap could contain it
And there’s none that ever will.
S oon it will be clear that the letter has been found

Which lets man enter grace where love’s beauty can abound.
While the mighty lion yawned
O blessed, holy, precious night, Root of Jesse, Lamb of God–
When darkness hid In faithful truth my soul doth keep.
As God’s Son dawned, Let heaven resound as angels sing
And I was born anew in Christ When Glory calls to inner deep.
While the mighty lion yawned.
O holy night! That precious babe,
I lightly breathe, I faintly smile, Into my arms, entrusted
His eyes are closed in restful sleep. Every child, the poor, the weak,
I want that baby for my own To tend those diamond-dusted.
As outer turns to inner deep.
Rejoice and sing, “I claim this king,
His eye upon creation Who claimed this child
In majestic mystery from darkness’ pond!”
Has turned from universal scope Who will heed Deep’s called to deep,
And focused now on me. While the mighty lion yawned?
The seed is nestled in its bed Lion of Judah, King of kings,

With swaddling clothes of earth. Messiah, risen Savior,
What is this joy of life He brings Compassion filled Your eyes with love
As another child gives birth? And granted man God’s favor.
This child embraced His Bethlehem ”Rise up, O King of Glory, rise.
And His humble stable frond Rise up, and claim Your throne.
And said, “I want Him for my own!” O light of life, be blessed tonight,
While the mighty lion yawned. The Bride is coming home!”

A little tummy song
When I was just a thought
In the Deep of Father’s mind,
He chose with greatest care
To form me after His own kind.
He chose a heavenly choir

To weave a heart song for His Son.
He carefully chose the parents
To love His gift–me, His little one.
He placed wonder for His majesty

Inside my forming brain,
Then filled my senses with His voice
To lead me home again.
He crafted each the diagrams

Which coded what I’d be,
Then He smiled into my spirit
And breathed His life in me.
I know He’s gone before me

To prepare where I belong,
So I’ll praise Him while I’m waiting
With this little tummy song.

When Jesus was a baby
He didn’t have a bed like me
He slept out in the cold
For the whole wide world to see.
When shepherds came to see Him

He couldn’t get up to play
‘cause He was just a baby
And He slept with cows on hay!
When angels sang, “He’s here!”

I bet the stars jumped down to see
Just to get a peek at Him
And dance and shout, “Whoopee!”
When wise men brought Him presents

I wonder if they went and told
That Jesus was a gift Himself
And better than their gold.
When little lambs laid by Him

I bet they slept the whole night through
And weren’t afraid of monsters
Or the naughty things they do.

He already knew my name
I love that baby Jesus
And He loves me just the same!

A Christmas mirror
I don’t know what it was that woke me I must be sleeping, silly me

I wasn’t sleepy, not a bit No way could I be there
I went to turn the light on But still … I’m sure that odor
But it seemed the sky was lit. Is from the horse’s hair.
I looked out of my window I try to lean across him

On the newly fallen snow, To see baby Jesus better,
The stars were shining brightly But He sees me and He smiles
And the earth just seemed to glow. Or is He looking at my sweater?
I’m certain it was nighttime, M y sweater’s kind of sparkly

But verrrry long ago. W ith all kinds of light reflectors.
I knew I was in Bethlehem, I look sorta like a Christmas tree
The peace just seemed to flow. Or maybe one of His protectors.
It’s M ary and the baby! He’s grinning now! He likes me!
Joseph’s standing by her side. I can tell by how He wiggles.
Oh wow! This is amazing! If I could hold Him … oops,
If they see me … should I hide? I tripped...
And now He’s full of giggles.
A horse tied in the stable
Is watching me draw near. “Oh Jesus, thanks for com ing.
He looks a lot like mine at home, I know You came for me to see
I guess there’s nothing here to fear. This dream is like a Christmas mirror
Reflecting all Your love for me!”

So smile, little princess
She’s racing out the door A great big grin appears, “Let’s read about the Wisemen
‘cause the bus is almost here. And her eyes lift to the rafter. who found the King of Glory”
As she scrambles for her backpack Isn’t life a hoot? and
Papers scatter everywhere! She rolls with peals of laughter. “Then let’s sing ‘Joy to the World,’
light candles in the dark,
Oops! But as the day goes on, I’ve got a great idea!
A great big grin appears, Things seem to get a little better . . . Let’s play ‘manger’ in the park!”
And her eyes lift to the rafter. Painting pictures on the page
Isn’t life a hoot? Instead of practicing the letter! Oops!
She rolls with peals of laughter. A great big grin appears,
Oops! And her eyes lift to the rafter.
The bus is on its way A great big grin appears, Isn’t life a hoot?
So she jogs, it’s not too late! And her eyes lift to the rafter. She rolls with peals of laughter.
But then her jacket hooks Isn’t life a hoot?
On the playground’s wire gate. She rolls with peals of laughter. Curled up in her bed, she sleeps,
And holds her baby very close.
Oops! But that’s enough for this day; W hen Jesus passed out gifts of grace
A great big grin appears, After school it’s much more fun. She received an extra dose!
And her eyes lift to the rafter. Skating, twirling down the road . . .
Isn’t life a hoot? W here did that car come from? “So smile, little princess,
She rolls with peals of laughter. Let your eyes reveal the truth.
Oops! You’re the treasure of His heart–
The teacher’s calling names A great big grin appears, no oops–
And she’s on the board again. And her eyes lift to the rafter. And He’s got His eye on you!”
One little slip, one little punch, Isn’t life a hoot?
And they’re calling next of kin! She rolls with peals of laughter.
Baths all done, it’s bedtime

Oops! But there’s time for just one story

Diamond Dust
W hen God created man,
He gave what could not rust.
He scrunched up His great love
And created diam ond dust.
The baby in the manger was a polished diamond gem.

He came so bits of diamond dust could find the cross road back to Him.
A thought becomes a seed,

A seed becomes a man,
A man becomes a child,
According to God’s plan.
W hen I consider seeds, the wonder in a child’s eyes,

Your face appears before me with love that stills unspoken, “W hys?”
It takes a lot of courage

For a man to be a child.
It takes a ‘manger’ baby
To tame what once was wild.
W hen I see your face before me,

His joy, His child . . . delight,
I see you diam ond dust, forever, M ost precious in His sight!

eh hem …
I wanted to be silly, just like when we were small,
But I can see His light of peace, shining through the stall.
I wanted to pretend that you’re a straw beneath me, but,

The cattle mooing near me asked I keep my big mouth shut.
I’d like to tell your wife that it took great strength to stay,
But a donkey swished his tail at me and filled my mouth with hay.
eh hem, . . . some more . . . .
Perhaps it’s just the quiet that penetrates the soul,

But my thoughts are shifting focus and I’ve found a better goal.
Perhaps it’s angels singing--songs the ear can’t hear,

But there’s a joy that’s building and I’m longing to draw near.
Perhaps it’s just the memories of the Christmas stories told,

But I’m stretching forth my arms in hopes that babe, I’ll get to hold.
I know He lives, just as He said, as Glory shines this night,

And I believe there is no joy, like walking in His light.
I wanted to be silly, just like when we were small,

But now it’s time to tell the truth, and come out from the stall!
eh hem . . .

The resurrection seed
Angel cards and mistletoe,
Lights all sparkled, sleigh bells tinkled,
As santas ho-ho-hoed to earn
Their cookies, sugar-sprinkled.
M erry hearts like medicine

Bring joy and do much good.
Songs of cheer bring ‘far’ to ‘near’
As crisp air wafts of balsam wood.
Gifts of love exchanged with hugs

Go far beyond the need.
Excitement stirs as wonder grows
O’er Life’s resurrection seed.
Sleepy eyes; had so much fun;

The tinsel dulls, the lights grow dim;
Bethlehem, its secret shared . . .
Night’s Deepest light reminds us now of Him.
Lambs softly chew as cattle moo;

Peace on the earth--to those who’d heed
The Father’s loving call to grace
Through the resurrection seed.

The princess child
She snuggled in her mama’s arms When the children’s choir sang,
And closed her eyes in sleep. Her voice, like angels, would proclaim,
Already she was trusting Him, “I bring to you great news of joy!”
Her heart to safely keep. Because she bears His name.
“I need some more attention!” Yes, she’s a princess child.

Her baby cries would shout. He chose her from the start.
Her heart was like an open book Though darkness fills the valley,
Letting everything inside, out. He’s tucked safely in her heart.
How eager, as a child, Yes, she’s His princess child,

She explored her world of sound. His Name, her every song.
It was never hard to find her, He’s seated her right near His heart
You just had to turn around! And loves her all day long.
Little ears were made for listening, Did I say day? I meant night, too,
For learning about God’s Son. For even night is day to You, Lord.
She listened well to what she heard, “Thank you for Your Spirit, mild.
Sharing Him with everyone! And thank You, Father,
For this princess child.”

. . .when it’s very, very still
Early morning, late, late night, The mysteries of Your love
Sometimes it’s all the same. Compels my heart to sing.
But early, late or in between,
I hear Him whispering my name. Thank You for Your grace,
And showing me Your way.
When it’s very, very still. Thank You for just loving me
Through those You’ve sent today.
Is it Christmas yet, or Easter?
But for time, indeed, they’re one. The best times that I share with You,
I consider my life’s journey When Deep calls out to deep,
And it seems I’ve just begun. Are moments in the still of night
When You awaken me from sleep.
I remember in my youth
On a clear, bright summer’s day, It’s then upon Your heart I lay
As I searched for God amongst the clouds And delight in joyful rest,
And wondered if He’d heard me pray. As You whisper, just so tenderly!
That I am Yours. Oh how I’m blest!
He must have smiled gently– down,
As in tall grass I lay. Early morning, late, late night,
I wonder: did it remind Him Sometimes it’s all the same.
Of how His Son laid on the hay? But early, late or in between,
I hear You whispering my name,
O little baby, Jesus,
O great and coming King, . . . when it’s very, very still.

Who can know?
Who can know a Father’s love A daughter worked beside her dad
So great His Son He’d send? As thunder rolled in with the dusk.
Or fathom all the mysteries
Of beginning without end? Another Father’s fields
Are golden from Life’s filling.
Once there was a father He searches the horizon
Who planted fields of grain. As He watches for her coming.
Each seed was like a treasure,
A little promise of great gain. Who can know a Father’s love
That tends and never sleeps;
His life was like his fields, Who listens to each whisper
Which he tended with great care. Of the child He holds and keeps?
His hopes and dreams, his joys and love,
He chose in tenderness to share. Time is but a tool
To show the seeds of each man’s heart.
Once upon forever, Christmas is but Easter,
Another Father loved. Eternal from the start.
Within His Son He planted
All the love from heaven above So who can know a father’s love?
The heart–a field for filling.
Once upon a memory, So who can know The Father’s love?
Dust rose up from the harvest. Only the willing.

The wisdom of a child
His life was very hard; it held no lasting peace. He battled for control and feared
He’d never find release. He knew such endless pain was never meant to be.
But dared he even hope that he could be set free?
W here does a child hide, when he’s so very small? It’s lonely in the dark;
W ho’d even hear if he should call? W ho’s to understand as he cries out in the night
That the baby in the manger had come to be his light?
Just as the boy became a man, so too, the Christ child grew. One day He spoke into his
Heart, “I’ve come in search of you.”
The man could find no words, he thought it much too late,
For sleepless nights and torment’s chains had brought him to hell’s gate.
And yet there stirred remembrance of a tiny spark of hope that came to him when he was young,
And dangling from life’s rope.
The hope was born of promises that Christ Himself had made.
The young boy gave his heart to Him and wondered what all He’d paid.
But darkness wasn’t finished as it stirred its hateful lies. Hope faded out and Jesus wept; the man
Stifled little boy cries. But love can never fail, and Jesus will not lose.
Each day He calls him home, and it forces him to choose.
It’s hard to start again when trust has once been torn, but harder still is choosing lies when one has
Been reborn. Choice is free will’s proof, which even children reap.
And Truth is faithful to the end, His promises to keep.
That baby in the manger now sits on heaven’s throne. His greatest heart’s desire is not to sit there
All alone. He gave His gift; He kept His word; His mercy’s ever mild.
He’s called the man to come back home, with the wisdom of a child.
“O precious child of promise, you’re the heir of Christ the King.

It’s time to know Whom you remember. Your Father searches the horizon . . .”

The face of the deep was formless. He was there.
The foundations of the earth were laid. He set them in their place.
The garden grew and man was formed in His image. They were good. Very good.
Then the destroyer wreaked his havoc................. Eden’s light departed.............. until,
The Word became flesh
And dwelt among us.
And now it is written:

In him was life, and that life was the light of men. The light shines in the darkness, but the darkness has
not understood it. John 1:4-5
O little seed of promise, Stand down, you lord of lies,

O child of God most high, Bow low, O man of pride,
O Son of Man who walked this earth, The darkness flees before His peace;
O Lord W ho lived to die, There’s no place left to hide!
Your glory filled the heavens Arise, O King of Glory, ride!

In Bethlehem one night; On worship due Your Name.
Your resurrection brought man Life Reveal Your heart, make known the truth,
By the power of Your might. In steadfast love, the same.
The light that shines in darkness W ith tender loving kindness,

Consuming havoc’s lies, In patient faithfulness,
Is Holy Spirit fire The Father calls us each by name
In response to prison cries. To share eternal rest.
O prisoner of the darkness, it is written: “Though it cost all you have, get
Understanding.” Pr 4:7

… and then the music bowed
Now I lay me down to sleep
But sleep artfully eludes me.
I pray the Lord my soul to keep.
“Ah, yes, dear friend, my Lord, I see.”
Flitting on the edges of my thoughts there is a shadow. It’s followed by another, yes, there’re
Many, many more! Now it moves across my mind with another just below. The
shadow’s Taking form as it’s building up a score!
A wiseman shakes his robes as he steps into the scene. His camel gives a sneeze from too much
Desert dust. Another wiseman scans the sky to track the guiding beam in search of
hidden Treasure through a promise–go He m ust.
The shadows in the background have united; they are strong. Rumblings have begun; a rhythm
Shimmers through the Deep. Scrambling to position, the notes find where they belong.
The Rumblings turn to words as angels soar, their guard to keep.
Shepherds hasten to the manger. “Can the angels word be true?” In deepest quiet rests the
Stable; indeed, the babe is on the hay! Glory fills with the beauty the Presence of love’s
hue. None can speak. There is no need–Messiah’s com e this day!
The positions all are taken as the notes await command, gathered ‘round about Him as a
Swaddling gentle cloud. “Silent night” reverberates throughout the ancient land. Notes
Burst forth from their shadows and then–the music bowed.
“ Silent
night,. . . silent night, . . . Holy night, . . . holy night . . .”
Now I lay me down to sleep, at last, my mind’s at ease.
The Lord is keeping watch and holds This child in His light.
“Sleep in heavenly peace . . . Sleep in heavenly peace.”

eternity in your eyes
I close my eyes. It’s Christmas! I close my eyes. It’s Christmas!
Quiet peace has filled my soul. Melody of praise springs from my heart.
I fold my hands and think of her, Children rise up, call her, ‘blessed’’,
With insightful, deeper goal. And seeds of love find hope to start.
Pictures of the manger Though time ever marks our journey,

Blend with memories I hold: In the Deep of God, it is no more,
A mother filled with wonder, For as things fade and pass away,
His Son entrusted--Love is bold! There’re much better things in store.
I see her bending low, How blest I am to know you.

Her hands in simple, tender prayer. In just a little way.
A grandma shows His higher way I see the radiance of His Glory
To teach how best His love is shared. As you brighten each one’s day.
I close my eyes. It’s Christmas!
And like the wonder of Bethlehem skies,
I remember your kind smile,
When I saw eternity in your eyes.
Happy is the man
I didn’t get what I had asked for, But nonetheless, I smelled it,
Or so it seemed to me. And for that moment, he was there.
The Christmas peace was missing
As I searched beneath the tree. I didn’t want to feel his hug,
So gentle to my heart.
I s’posed it was a lot to ask--- But there it was, just like a song,
The gift that I had sought. With notes of love, though we’re apart.
So I tried to be content,
Remembering what He’d taught. I didn’t want to see him
In the faces ‘round about,
I didn’t want to smile But there he stood ... Beside the King?
But it crept onto my face. And I gave a mighty shout!
A little babe, a little boy,
A blessed gift of grace.
“O blessed Savior, Sovereign Father,
I didn’t want to hear his voice, You gave me more than I’d asked for!
But memory does strange things. Bethlehem sings! My heart resounds,
His laughter filled my ears with joy ‘Happy is the man whose god is
As a bell of Christmas pinged. the LORD!’”
I didn’t want to smell the fragrance

Of the shampoo in his hair.
Be blessed with the resurrection power of Christmas . . .

Christ walks, both here and there.

The potter’s wheel
Round and round, up and down, He’d have to be a great big god
My world is in a tizzy; To make me pure and holy.
And yet, I feel the potter’s hand But then He said He takes the weak . . .
Though I spin ‘til I am dizzy. And loves the meek and lowly.
It isn’t wise to challenge Him He’d have to be a loving god

About what He is molding. To forgive all that I’ve done.
I’ve learned enough to wait and see But then He did send Jesus? . . .
And spare myself a scolding. And sacrificed His Son.
But I confess I’m wondering, Oh can it be? Can it be true

About the time it’s taking. That the mirror in His face
I fear I must be quite a mess– Is reflecting how He sees me?–
Results of my own making! Clothed richly in His grace!
Oh can it be that He can see I see the sparkles of His smile.

Some beauty in the ashes? Such beauty prisms through me!
I search His eyes for signs of hope And now He’s bending lower
But fear intrudes–mind flashes. To kiss the child on His knee.
“O holy child of Bethlehem,

Your promises are true!
O King of Glory, I’m Your child.
Good potter, ‘ I love You.’”

The Lover’s inn
O precious Lamb of Glory, Another scene, another time,
O child of His delight, A nurse who humbly prays;
What promises were birthed A child experiences loving grace
On that holy, blessed night! As Christ extends his days.
Such love, to give one’s child A mother’s heart so full of love

To redeem ungrateful men Tends children not her own.
Who love the deeds of darkness To each is given as he needs,
And refuse the lover’s inn. A touch of heaven’s home.
A little town, a little stall, A sister and a friend

An awesome God, an awesome wonder; Extends her heart again,
A little babe, a little seed, Revealing truth and grace above
An awesome light and gift to ponder. As she shares her Lover’s inn.
“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.” James 1:2-4

She shines
She shines with the beauty of radiant love.
She walks with a confident glow.
Her steps are secure as she gives life a hug,
For she’s blessed and a blessing . . . I know.
He shines from the manger in the image of God.

He invites we partake of His Glory.
His steps follow after the delight of His eye,
As she lives out the truth of His story.
Shine, little princess, delight of His eye,

Shine like the diamonds of heaven.
Order your steps in the light of His love;
Let the world know the love you’ve been given.
There is a Bethlehem
There is a Bethlehem silently waiting
Deep in every man’s heart.
There is a longing in each little stable
To know love as we did at the start.
“Before you were formed in the womb, yes, I knew you.

I made and I loved every part.
At your birth I’ll be calling your name to come home
Through rebirth, to your place in My heart.”
There is a Father Who loves each of His children

With a love that can heal and make whole.
There is a father, and mother, of promise,
Training them up in the way they should go.
Be blessed this year with the heart of the Father Who loves you.
“May Your Word, Father, rest in my Bethlehem.”
There is a quiet
There is a quiet that one can feel
When his heart is stilled by peace.
There is a quiet that sings, “I live!”
When the will permits its release.
There is a quest for truth

That time cannot deny.
There is a quest for answers
To the question, “Who am I?”
There is a hope that moves the soul

Towards light in deepest darkness.
There is a hope that draws man near
Towards unity through kindness.
There is a song that children hear

When angels bear glad tidings.
There is a song the Savior sang
When He loved us through His dying.
O angels, “Sing!” And shepherds, “Watch.”

Christ the King yet lives in Glory.
O holy night, in Bethlehem,
Ring out Love’s Christmas story.

Love so great it shows
I see the gently falling snow, A Father loved His son,
A babe in swaddling clothes. Then loosed his precious gem.
I marvel at the wonder
Of love so great it shows. Christmas was the seed,
The birth of promises, foretold.
I see it in the whispers But such a gift! It cost His life!
Of wind cradling the leaves. In all the world, no greater gold.
I see it in the harvest
As men gather in the sheaves. When evening brings the stars
And the night reveals the Deep,
A gentle word, a tender look, I think about this God I trust--
A kindness undeserved; My soul He’ll ever keep.
I see it in the servant’s heart
Unmindful who he’s served. I see His sparkling diamonds
Grace-filled tears upon the sky.
I’ve seen this kind of love, I feel His faithful longing
Not seeking its own way; And His tender watchful eye.
I’ve marveled at its beauty,
How it brightens up one’s day. The Christ child beckons still.
Be still my soul and know,
The stable light shines warmly The Father gave His all
In the heart of Bethlehem. That His love for me would show.
More great a love be yours this Christmas,

A gift to you from Christ the King.
And may your hands, in service, find
True worth in all He brings.

I saw the song
The night was very quiet, I heard a mother singing o’er
My thoughts had grown quite still. Her babe in swaddled clothing.
The sky seemed never-ending, I saw the song of love
The dark had lost its chill. Embrace the one He’d chosen.
A scroll began descending The music floated upward,

Like a music sheet unrolled, Now shines the world around.
And time began to play It sprang up in my child
The song of love so often told. When Christ the King was found.
The notes that blessed the pages And now my child has grown
Held memories filled with sound. And serves to light a distant land,
They filled my heart with laughter As Bethlehem shines
As they turned my head around. Its timeless song,
And leads him by Christ’s hand.
Sing out! O light; Rejoice! O King.

The Father’s bending near
To gently touch His little child,
And tell him: “I am here.”

If you had been my brother
I’ve heard about the story And when you got a little bigger
W hen You were just a babe. I would take You by the hand
It must’ve been cold on the hay I’d teach You all the songs I know
W here they told me that You laid. And how to make mom’s hair stand.
(Just kidding!)
If You had been my brother,
I would have given You my bed But I do wish You could be here;
(It’s really neat, all blue and soft) I’d tell You all the jokes I know.
And I’d have curled up by Your head. M y sister thinks I’m funny,
We could put on quite a show.
I heard that there were cows there,
And lambs and donkeys, too. Then we could tease our dad
I would have liked to’ve been there, And play out in the snow,
Then I could learn to moo! Or shoot some hoops, go skating,
(Just kidding.) Swim! or just hang out, ya know?
But I do wish I had been there, If You had been my brother . . .

Or better yet that You were here! W hat? W hat is that You say?
‘cause if You had been m y brother You are my brother?
I would always keep You near. And You’re in my heart to stay?
I would hold You and I’d cuddle You, W hhoooooooooo! That’s cool.
And teach You to be brave; Hey!
Then I’d share You with my friends You hungry?
So their hearts You too could save.

Tender mercies
Before you were formed in the womb
I knew you
Before the foundations of the earth . . .
I AM
Twinkle star, there you are, Cattle stall and manger bed
Light within my eye. From age to age the same.
Visions of your homeland How blest to know a God like You
Flit across the sky. Who’d sacrifice His Name!
Held Grace within His palm, Spirit flowing like a breeze

To earth from heaven came down Floats gently through my heart.
Into willing hearts below, . . . Tender mercies have come down
Humble birth, of no renown. To give a brand new start.
“Could I hold you, could I please? “Could I hold you, could I please?
Though my hands are very small, Though my hands are very small
I bring my Father’s love to you I bring my Father’s love to you
And He is very tall.” And He is very tall.”
Love flows like a river with Life its own hearts blood.
Mercy falls like heaven’s dew,
Every drop though precious, was spent for love of you.

the giver
He didn’t seem like much There is silence in the heavens.
W hen he held the tiny seed. The temple’s torn in two.
How could He know, beyond His time, This chapter’s done, it’s finished . . .
A multitude He’d feed? The rest is up to you.
The baby in her arms And the woman said, “I’ll go!”
W as such a wee, small thing. And the man said, “I’ll go, too!”
How could she grasp the glory Indeed they went and don’t you know?
His Name would one day bring? The two, were you . . . and you!
A boy holds out his hand, Two by two, as one,

The basket’s filled with food. They shared the giver’s Son.
The seed, W ho’s grown into a man Through all ‘each’ two have done,
Then feeds that multitude! Little lambs share what He’s won.
A woman drops her pennies-- Let the little children come

That’s all to her, remain. To Bethlehem and see
“I tell the truth,” is said of her, How great a love the Father bore
“She’ll taste of heaven’s gain.” W hen Christ came to set men free.
“I’ll take his place, and his, and hers,” O greater love’s been shown.
He says before God’s throne. No power can ever sever
“I’ll give Life’s blood to save them The cord of love that binds us
And bear sins that aren’t M y own.” To the heart of God, the giver.

I see His Feet
I’ve tried to still my soul, be quiet,
Search my heart, go deeper still.
I close my eyes, breathe slowly,
Living W ater rises, fills.
I’m not sure just what I’ll find–

Outer Deep greets inner deep,
In this heart, my Bethlehem . . .
Be still my soul, don’t fall asleep!
Closer, closer, now I see Him,

Christ child, King and risen Lord!
Time removed, He lives unchanging,
Draws me near with love’s strong cord.
In the throne room of m y temple

Sits my Savior, with me, His child.
On His lap, within His heart,
Dimensions cease as His eyes smiled.
One with Him, I am no more. I am no less! Just different.

Spirits soar, time is no more, death now knows defeat.
I sing, rejoice, I laugh and skip before God’s Holy Lamb.
To earth once more, jots, tittles fly; in looking down I see His feet–and they are mine!
Go tell it on the mountains!
The Bethlehem glow
All of time stood still A father loves his child,
For just a timeless moment. A husband loves his wife,
Heaven’s radiance parted company, A servant gives his best
Then time began again. By offering His Life.
As Bethlehem was stilled, A child begins a search, lifelong,

Shepherds could not speak. For the ancient narrow way,
Love warmed their very souls To claim the blessing of his birth
As Christ came forth from the great Where love turns night to day.
Deep.
Christmas Day to Easter–
His radiance, spilling out, As a circle fully drawn,
Filled all who would rejoice. Brings hope within this child
His radiance spills out still As I greet the coming dawn.
When His children heed His voice.
Some children see Him in creation

Or in the faces of those they know.
But every child of promise
Will bear the ‘Bethlehem glow’.
My family
My family! My family is your family Jesus changed the family
(Please take them, if you please). When He came on Christmas night.
You know I’m only kidding now, Mankind, each one, was darkness’ child,
So put your mind at ease. ‘til the option came– adoption– Light!
“I don’t think it’s funny Bethlehem was long ago,

That you think such a gift so small! But He left His guiding light.
Things would look much different Even those who live in darkness,
If you had no one, at all!” He keeps close within His sight.
I know that I was teasing Though it may seem to some

But what you said is just not right. That a man’s family be but one,
No one has noooooo one, There’s a choice each one will make–
Because of Christmas night. Adversity tests to which he’ll run.
“What do you mean, not right? My family! My family is your family

Christmas is a family scene (please take them, if you please).
But still, many are alone . . . You know I’m really not kidding now,
I don’t know quite what you mean.” So join us, and enter into peace.

… and there you are, my friend
By wise men who seek Him, The old gave way to new,
It’s true, He will be found. Winter came and went away.
Some journeys take a lifetime Hibernation of the soul
To little Bethlehem town. Had seen its final day!
In spring I didn’t know Your Name, He never changed

You were little more than a story. Throughout the seasons,
Although I’d heard about You, He remained ever by my side.
I’d not recognized Your Glory. Of worms, chrysalis and butterflies–
Life came through what had died.
In summer You were there,
I had but to turn around. Up and down those streets I walked
It made no sense, be childlike, In the Bethlehem of my heart,
And then You would be found Searching, seeking manger grace
That He promised from the start.
In autumn life had withered,
Understanding cost me all. Nothing less than Immanuel’s face
Yet it was Wisdom picked me up Could grace this journey’s end.
And healed me from the fall. I found the throne room in my heart,
And there You are, my friend!

Autumn’s song
Some children grow up old Christmas time is near,
While yet their days are young. New life to you He’ll bring!
Their Spring times– filled with sorrow,
And their dreams are left unsung. The Winter seems so harsh and cold
Yet hope now lives, will never die.
When Summer comes they faint, Heaven’s light is shining brighter,
As hope withers from the drought. The trumpet sounds its joyous cry.
It’s the season of despair
Which turns them to the Lord– cry out! The children come full circle,
And peace abides where it belongs.
Then Autumn comes in color They rest within the Potter’s hands
As what’s been is nevermore. And remember Autumn’s song.
And carefully they plant those things
That they would see reborn. Then they sing:
And Autumn sings: “Children of the promise,

Prepare your hearts and sing.
Children of the promise, Christmas time is near,
Prepare your hearts and sing. New life to you He’ll bring!”

… and I rose
Time rolled away, like a bloodstained bandage,
As I clung to the folds of the Deep.
Glory alighted the Ancient of Days
And I rose from the darkness of sleep.
“Awaken, O dawn, and rejoice, O my soul,

for my Father is calling me home.”
In awe do I sing as the world fades away
And I walk with the King to His throne.
His footstool, the earth, like a sponge dried and gone,

Is replaced by a vast sea of glass.
Deep calls out to deep and I answer His call:
“Yes, Father, I’m home now, at last.”
The bandage of time that recorded all things,

Releases the babe from my heart.
United as one, with God’s holy Son,
Love joins what nothing can part.
Bethlehem’s singing and lambs still are seeking

Hope that is true and can soar.
Enter the Deep through the gate, small and narrow
Enter His rest; enter, be blessed; enter His peace evermore.
And the Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.”
thirty-nine plus one
Thirty-nine was the number of stripes He was beaten;
The shard-studded strap would have liked to give more.
Then the number for death and defeat
Would have silenced forever this Judah lion’s roar!
Or so was the thinking, for

Thirty-nine plus one was thought to mean death.
But things are never quite as they seem to be
When the Master is tallying the score.
Thirty-nine was the number of poems given me,

Thirty-nine, and then, just one more.
Thirty-nine plus one = death.
Or so was my thinking!
The message of joy that I’ve shared with you

Would fall short and be incomplete,
Unless I, too, shared this story of ‘ewe’
And the resurrection power of His Seed.
Thirty-nine plus one = death, ‘twas believed

(unless that one is God’s Resurrection Seed).
He was there even before I was formed,
And in my greatest darkness,
I was known.

Before mind and heart agree
The streets are quiet as darkness pretends to lay claim to what the eye cannot see. But
The blended shades of darkness attest that the light has not departed from the earth, Yet. A
small unnoticed form tries feebly to contain itself with a shivering hug about The knees, head
bent in to partake, if possible, of the floundering warmth of soul light.
So alone amongst so m any, again! Too familiar is the chill of those who pass on by,
Seeing no treasure worthy the investment of their time or selves. That place in the heart where
such injury releases tears of the soul has long since ceased to respond rightly and is able to
produce but a hollow and resounding echo of ache.
Lies. Lies hurt.
There is an almost discernible trembling of motion, more a suggestion of cradled

rocking than actual. W ere the thoughts unbound and given vent, it would be heard, “Oh, God!
Oh, God, Huh, huhhhh. I know You are in there, Jesus, I invited You in!” W hile the hug is
tightened to em brace the heart and the hope of His light within, she firmly closes her eyes to
shut out the fear, lest darkness somehow quench the fire that burns within, exposing pain’s
reality.
The darkness seems to press in heavily with arrogance as though it could crush the
Inner light at will. The eyes, through a flit of movement, scan the oozing gush of foreboding
lies now taking form under the covering of shame.
“Oh, Jesus!” No one can love me . . . no one . . . no one but You.

“I know that You Love me. I know it.
“You have to love me; love is what You are.
“You know me full well and still You love me. You know me.
“Every part of me You know.
“How can You know me and love me so?
“Oh, Jesus, thank You. Please don’t give up on me.”
“I am the beginning . . . 1951 . . . 1969 . . . 1975 . . . 1980 . . . 1983 . . . and the end.”


Inexpressible Joy Continuous Plain 12 14 10

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Inexpressible Joy Continuous Plain 12 14 10

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Inexpressible joy

My head says, “I love you.”

Possessions are dust;

“Take freely what’s already Yours!”

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

No one could have been more surprised

Sometimes hope has been invested

It must wait for heaven,

Oh, what a gift it is to be known by our Creator, inside and out,

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

“Do you fully understand “I love You, Son.

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

Oh let the river flow. Rejoice! Cry ‘Glory’! Rejoice!

Glad tidings of great Joy! Joy! Joy!

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

What wonder I behold

Excitement stirs my heart

I wonder how He did it

“hello, little baby,

O, children of His promise, rest in the covering of His fleece,

The thought becomes a seed Ohhh! Such quiet fills my soul!

Little baby boy,

J ust a moment longer; perhaps it’s on its way.

E very Christmas blessing began with seeds of joy.

S hining through my window I can see His wondrous light.

U nder every Christmas tree a gift of love lays still.

S oon it will be clear that the letter has been found

The seed is nestled in its bed Lion of Judah, King of kings,

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

He chose a heavenly choir

He placed wonder for His majesty

He crafted each the diagrams

I know He’s gone before me

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

When shepherds came to see Him

When angels sang, “He’s here!”

When wise men brought Him presents

When little lambs laid by Him

When Jesus was a baby

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

I don’t know what it was that woke me I must be sleeping, silly me

I looked out of my window I try to lean across him

I’m certain it was nighttime, M y sweater’s kind of sparkly

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

Baths all done, it’s bedtime

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

The baby in the manger was a polished diamond gem.

A thought becomes a seed,

W hen I consider seeds, the wonder in a child’s eyes,

It takes a lot of courage

W hen I see your face before me,

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

I wanted to pretend that you’re a straw beneath me, but,

eh hem, . . . some more . . . .

Perhaps it’s just the quiet that penetrates the soul,

Perhaps it’s angels singing--songs the ear can’t hear,

Perhaps it’s just the memories of the Christmas stories told,

I know He lives, just as He said, as Glory shines this night,

I wanted to be silly, just like when we were small,

From: Inexpressible joy ( a collection in Vision Cry)

M erry hearts like medicine

Gifts of love exchanged with hugs

Sleepy eyes; had so much fun;