One Small Kitten

One day I was sitting by the window sewing when all of a sudden there was a major "eruption" in the persimmon tree just outside the window. I just caught a glimpse of two animals racing up the tree, but because they were moving so fast I didn't know exactly what I had seen.

As I went outside to look, I discovered that our cat had chased a young kitten up the tree. Then the cat jumped from the tree over onto the roof of the room where I had been sewing, and she was sitting there, just waiting and daring that kitten to come down. The poor kitten was scared and it wasn't moving.

I went back to my sewing, but then I had a humorous thought..... our dog's very favorite pastime was chasing cats. (He never did catch one, but he really loved the "chase"). I called upstairs to our two children to tell them about the kitten in the tree. I thought they might get a few laughs watching the dog's reaction if he saw a cat but couldn't chase it. I suggested they hold him up to the window, which was eye level with where the kitten sat in the tree, just to see what he would do.

They held him up to look, and immediately he let out a long barrage of barking, and his legs were flailing the air wildly..... he was "running in mid-air". Well, this had the desired effect on the kids. It was a funny, funny moment, and I could hear much laughter up there.

But I hadn't pre-thought the effect on the poor kitten. Even though the dog was inside the house, he was only a distance of about six feet away from the kitten. When he started barking I saw the kitten, with the cat very close behind, come down the tree faster than it went up. I'm sure the kitten had not expected to encounter a dog while up in the tree. Now he was really running.

I never saw that kitten in our yard again, and I couldn't blame him if he didn't come back. If he did, probably the dog would have chased him away. The surprise in all this was that our "gentle" cat was now acting like a watch-dog. We had not seen her chasing other cats before. Afterward I felt really guilty for causing the poor kitten more fright than he already had experienced.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Sunshine Friend

I want to be a Sunshine Friend.....
The love of Jesus to extend,
To brighten someone's rainy day
With little things I do and say.

Perhaps if I just share a smile,
Someone will feel that they're worthwhile.
Or if I speak a cheerful word
Someone may feel their prayers were heard.

The times I make a telephone call
Or wave at someone may seem small,
But I may be the only light
To make that person's day shine bright.

A Sunshine Friend will pray and know
Just when to call and say "Hello",
For Jesus speaks in quiet ways
Within the heart of one who prays.

A Sunshine Friend I want to be.
I pray His light will shine through me.

"A word spoken in due season, how good it is!"
Proverbs 15:23b NKJ

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver."
Proverbs 25:11 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Holy Place

I'm drawn into the Holy Place,
Eager, Lord, to see Your face,
Richly covered by Your grace.
Holy, Holy Lord.

In Your quiet and Your peace
Is the place of sweet release.
Daily cares and worries cease.
Holy, Holy Lord.

Resting in this place apart,
Listening to the Father's heart,
Each day becomes a fresh, new start.
Holy, Holy Lord.

"In Your presence is fullness of joy....."
Psalm 16:11 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Taking Time To Listen

When the daily cares of life
Crowd forward for attention,
Consuming all my time and thought
And blurring good intention...

I know it's time to stop and listen,
Lest I miss the Spirit's voice.
For I could "rush" right past a turn
Or make a less-than-perfect choice.

I never want to get so busy
That I miss a loved one's cry.
I'll never know that person's heart
If I don't listen to his sigh.

I must listen with my heart,
And not just lend a "casual" ear.
Only then will I discover
All that God would have me hear.

For when I truly learn to listen
The Holy Spirit will impart
Ability to see and hear
And reach out with the Father's heart.


"Hear instruction and be wise, and do not disdain it. Blessed is the man who listens to me."
Proverbs 8:33-34a NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Strong Nation

We must be a people strong,
Armed with prayer against all wrong,
Vigilant to stand our ground
And keep our guard up all around.

Powers of darkness would destroy
And evil practice would employ,
But people of God on bended knee
Can keep our nation safe and free.

Prayer warriors side by side
Will overcome the evil tide.
We have a God of power and might,
And we will stand for what is right!

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord....."
Psalm 33:12a NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wings Of The Spirit

If I could just fly,
Then surely I'd try
To reach a high place
And look far into space.....

To see things untold
And the heavens behold.
With my wings I would soar,
New heights to explore.

Yet I have no wings
To go see all these things,
But when I'm in prayer
I can go anywhere.

When I seek a "high place"
For my eyes to "embrace",
His Spirit will show
All that I need to know.

The Spirit gives wings
To teach us all things.
What wondrous delight!
What glorious flight!


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Within The Veil

Entering within the veil,
Drawing very close to You...
I find peace and new life there
Each day my spirit to renew.

In Your inner chambers, Lord,
Is sweet communion... rich and rare.
Time and space have no import...
Of You alone I am aware.

What awesome joy to hear Your voice
And sense Your Holy Spirit hovering.
What blessed peace is found within
Your presence and Your covering.

This sweet refreshing that You bring
Has changed my life from day to day.
What more wondrous place to be
And what more blessed place to stay.


"How lovely is Your tabernacle, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of the Lord; My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."
Psalm 84:2 NKJ


© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Ant and The Bee

The ant was so busy
And worked all day long
To gather his food,
Though he was not strong.

Then he saw a bee
Who was flying about
From flower to flower
Sweet nectar to scout.

Ant
"What are you doing?"
He said to the bee.

Bee
"Searching for nectar
To take home with me."

"I fly to my beehive
Where honey we make,
For people like honey
On bread and in cake!"

The ant thought it over
But didn't know why
A bee would make honey
For PEOPLE to try.

Ant
"I take my food
From crumbs people LEAVE!
That you make them honey
Is hard to believe!"

Bee
"God made me a bee,
For He had a plan
That I should make honey
As good food for man."

"So I work hard all day
From dawn until eve.
For me it is better
To give than receive."

"And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, 'It is more blessed to give than to receive.'"
Acts 20:35b NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thoughts About Clay

Clay does not try to shape itself.
Clay has no thought for the morrow..... it is not anxious..... it rests.
Clay does not strive with it's Maker.

True clay is yielded and ready..... and waits.
True clay desires to be in the realm of God's plan, not it's own plan.

True clay is comfortable in God's hand, even knowing that His shaping of a vessel may sometimes be uncomfortable.

True clay will not question God's purpose..... it won't tell God what kind of vessel it wants to be.

True clay will rejoice in service.

"But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay,
and You our potter; and all we are the work of Your hand."
Isaiah 64:9 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Potter's Wheel

You are the potter and I am the clay.
By Your loving hands, make of me as You may.
Mold me and shape me and make me to be
A vessel that's worthy of service to Thee.

If by adversity I should be broken,
Let no negativity by me be spoken.
But let me be yielded as I face the test,
Knowing You'll rebuild me. In that I will rest.

Your wheel was the place of beginning for me.
It was there as mere clay that I learned to "see"...
And now I will wait should Your wheel again turn,
For I'll be made new, and from You I will learn.

"But now, O Lord, You are our Father; we are the clay, and You our potter; and all we are the work of your hand."
Isaiah 64:8 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Morning's Promise

As I drink in the freshness
of the morning.....

And see God's creation all
around me.....

I am energized
And renewed in my spirit.

In Him
Opportunity is limitless.....
Possibility stands waiting.....
Promise is given.....

Each day is His special gift,

And I am refreshed.


"The Lord's mercies are new every morning; great Is Your faithfulness.

' The Lord is my portion,' says my soul. ' Therefore I hope in Him!' "
Lamentations 3:23-24 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Window Story

A Children's Poem

"Little birdie on a limb,
I see your nest outside my window.
I watched you as you built it there
With grass and twigs you found below.

I saw you sitting on the nest,
Swaying gently in the breeze.
Then I saw some little eggs
And knew there would be babies.

One day I heard some chirping sounds
And looked to see what that might be.
Sitting there with mouths wide open,
There they were - your babies three.

I watched you as you came and went.
Back and forth you flew
To bring your babies seeds to eat.
Papa bird was busy, too!

I saw the little babies grow
And loved to hear them sing.
But I knew that one day soon
The babies would take wing.

Little birdie on a limb,
When you leave and fly away,
Maybe you could come again
And sing for me some other day."


© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Prayerful Call

Our nation needs to bow it's head
And bend upon it's prideful knee
To humbly show it's gratitude
For freedom and prosperity.

For God has kept His hand upon us,
Watching over us by night,
Honoring the cries of those
Who prayerfully stand for what is right.

Today we call upon His name,
Repenting of our spot and sin,
Asking Him to heal our nation,
Restoring righteousness within.

"If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Seeing Through His Eyes

When I rush I miss too much,
And then don't see His special touch.
Taking time to seek His "view"
Makes quick perceptions rich and new.

For what I see in just a glance
The Lord would in my sight enhance.
If I give Him full attention,
He will show me His dimension.

What a blessing then to see
The beauty that He shows to me.
For always I will find surprise
When I see as through His eyes.

"Come and see the works of God; He is awesome in His doing toward the sons of men"
Psalm 66:5 NKJ

"Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law."
Psalm 119:18 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Times Of Refreshing

Lord, Your presence is lovely.....
and very soothing..... a place set apart.

It is like sitting by pools of water.....
where I can reflect on Your goodness and find
deep peace and quietness of spirit.

It is as an oasis, where I may find rest
from the "hurry and scurry" of everyday life.

Your beauty is revealed to me in these times,
and I am changed within. I want to linger there,
for nothing can compare to these moments with You.

"He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul....."
Psalm 23:2-3 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Hem Of His Garment

I saw a woman, hurting so much.
She really needed a healing touch.
I could sense her tears and feel her pain.
Revealed in her face were weariness and strain.

She sat and she read in her Bible that day,
Which certainly is the very best way
To find strength and courage for every task.
For God hears our prayers and all that we ask.

He is the One Who is able to heal
All that our bodies may suffer and feel.
Even though doctors will do all they can,
Her answer is faith in God's healing plan.

"For she said to herself, 'If only I may touch His garment, I shall be made well.' But Jesus turned around, and when He saw her He said, 'Be of good cheer, daughter; your faith has made you well.' And the woman was made well from that hour."
Matthew 9:21-22 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Of Love

A Heart Of Love.....
Speaks gently,
Sees clearly,
Listens, and is able to hear.

A Heart Of Love.....
Is not weak, but strong,
Does not fear, but is quietly confident,
Gives, without expecting return.

A Heart Of Love.....
Forgives..... and is free,
Shows mercy,
Is patient and forbearing.

A Heart Of Love
Is joyous,
Has peace, and
Is very full of Jesus.

"Love..... bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things,
endures all things. Love never fails."
I Corinthians 13:7-8 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Springtime

As Winter wearies and falls asleep
And Springtime warms the cold, damp earth,
It seems creation starts to smile,
And everywhere we see its birth.

Suddenly poking through the soil
Are tiny shoots and tender plants.
Leaves and blossom on the trees
Are making happy new appearance!

Once again we are reminded
Of God's love and giving hand.
For only He could form such beauty.
Long ago springtime was planned.


"Praise the Lord!
Praise God in His sanctuary;
Praise Him in His mighty firmament!
Praise Him for His mighty acts;
Praise Him according to His excellent greatness!"
Psalm 150:1-2 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Comedy Of Errors

As my children were growing up, always I was blessed by the way my son responded whenever I asked him to do something. One of his daily duties was to take the garbage and waste paper out for me, and he was really good about doing it.

One evening we had Kentucky Friend Chicken for dinner, and as I was finishing up the dishes I called out to him that there was some garbage to take out. I just bagged it up and then left the bag in the sink so that the pets wouldn't get into it. We had found that this system worked just fine. He called back to me, "I'll get it, Mom". Because he was consistent in following through, I just didn't give it another thought, and went on to something else in another room.

Well, this one time he forgot to take it out. And I didn't notice that fact. When I got up the following morning, it seems that Kitty Cat had decided she would like some chicken too. I could not believe what I was looking at when I walked into the kitchen. She had opened the bag and spread it's contents out in the sink and from one end of the counter to the other.

I could have gotten mad, but actually it was kind of humorous. My son "goofed" this one time, and Kitty Cat had a wonderful time. But I had to rush to clean up the mess so that I could cook breakfast and get my children to school on time. I bagged up the mess, cleaned up the counter with bleach and then set about hurrying to make breakfast.

When my son came in, I told him what had happened and that I had now set the bag of garbage by the back door. He said, "I'm sorry, Mom. I'll get it out." We ate and rushed off to school, just barely getting there on time.

I drove back home, and when I came into the house was totally amazed all over again. My son had again forgotten, and now Scruffy, (our part-mutt, part Mini-Schnauzer), had dined on the chicken. This time it was strung out from one end of the kitchen to the other. But he was a little "higher class" than Kitty Cat. He had taken what was left of the scraps into the dining room and "dined" under the dining room table. At first I just stood there and stared at the size of the problem. I didn't think there was that much garbage left in the bag! And then I began to laugh.....

The joke was on me, and the pets had definitely had a good morning. So rather than get all upset, I just cleaned up the mess. But I did tease my son about it. He didn't forget after that.


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Two Small Steaks

Years ago I had a wonderful friend who was very skilled at managing her food budget. She and her husband had two junior high age children, and at the time were trying to buy a home, so she had to stretch her food dollar as far as possible.

She wanted her family to have good nutrition, but she didn't have anything extra to spend on food. So this is what she did. She laid out a menu plan for a whole month at a time. She studied her recipes and wrote down what she was going to cook each day. Then the family would go shopping and buy everything needed for that month except the fresh vegetables and fruits. She was very diligent to follow her food plan, because there wasn't any extra money in the budget at that time.

One time she really desired to have steak, but she knew they couldn't afford it. Still she did want it, so she bought two steaks, thinking that if she cut them in half each person could have a small piece to eat. That evening she cooked dinner and set the platter with the two steaks, cut in half to make four pieces, on the table along with the rest of the dinner. The family sat down to eat. But first they joined hands and thanked God for His provision for them. When they were through praying and opened their eyes, they saw four full-sized steaks on the platter. God had multiplied the size of the steaks!

What an awesome God we have! He knew the desire of their hearts, and He lovingly blessed them.

"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus will I bless You while I live: I will lift up my hands in Your name. My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness, and my mouth shall praise You with joyful lips."
Psalm 63:3-5 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Special Blessing

May He lift you up this day,
Guide your path and light your way.

May His angels watch o'er you
To keep you safe in all you do.

May His Spirit hover near
Your needs to meet and prayers to hear.

May He fill your heart with song
And give you blessing all day long.

"The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."
Numbers 6:24-26 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Light In The Darkness

The light of God resides in His people. When light shines into the darkness, truth and love go forth where only emptiness has been. His light brings hope. His light brings change.

When a child of God speaks, it may become the only ray of hope in someone's life. It may even be the difference between life and death for that person.

When a child of God lets his light shine, it may be an example to another who is struggling to find a pattern for life.

Being light in a darkened world is a very great privilege, for receiving His light is to receive His very best.


"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."

Matthew 5:14-16 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Love

I stood at the window looking down at the beach. And all was still except for the lapping of the waves. It was early in the morning, and the sand was smooth from the washing of the waves through the night.

As I watched, a family with children came walking down the beach. The children had sticks in their hands and were writing in the sand and digging holes.

After the family passed by, the sand looked "messy". There were holes and debris everywhere. The serenity I had seen was no longer there.

Then a big wave came in and washed over the whole scene. As the water receded, once again the sand appeared smooth and untouched..... as though nothing had happened. The stillness and beauty were there again.

And God spoke..... "My love is like that....."

It continually washes and restores .....
Even as the waves washing on the beach.....

"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor princi- palities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

He Is There

When your heart is aching
And tired from wear and tear,
When clouds of darkness hover
Remember - Jesus cares.

Nothing that is in us
Is beyond His tender touch.
He understands our every need
And loves us all so much.

Though the load you carry
Sometimes seems too much to bear,
He will lift that burden from you.
Remember - He is there.

He will fill your mouth with laughter
And make your heart to sing,
Will light your path and guide your way,
A happy smile bring.

If you will only trust Him
Your burdens He will bear.
His joy will be your portion.
Nothing shall compare.

For He is there.

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, For I am gentle and lowly in heart,
And you will find rest for your souls.
For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 NKJ

©2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

This Tiny Boy

Not very old was this little boy...
Just two and a half, but oh, what a joy!
He was playing outside when he found a plum.
He smiled very brightly. His eyes said, "Yum-yum".

We told him that this was the wrong kind.
These were the kind that birds like to find.
He threw up his arms with a plum in each hand,
Calling, "Here, birdie, birdie," in child-like command.

But the birds were so high in the trees that day,
They did not hear... they were too far away.
His little arms got tired and dropped to his side.
He said, "Can't reach. Can't reach"... though he tried.

How touching to see this sweet little boy
With his arms lifted up and his face filled with joy.
He already knew about how birds could fly,
But then he was sad that they flew so high.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Greatest Love

O Father God....from beginning of time
You had a plan...a flawless design.
Not in a lifetime, not in a day
Could we comprehend just how much You would pay.

Your love is so great that You sacrificed all
So we might be saved from effects of "the fall".
How great Your compassion, Your mercy and grace
...That You should love us and our sins erase.

You didn't forsake us or cast us away,
But provided redemption...our debts to repay.
O Father God, Your mercy and grace
Flow freely and richly our lives to embrace.

We are wrapped in Your love and eagerly wait
For the time when we see You and enter Your gate.
What blessing and honor and joy that will be...
To be in Your presence eternally.


"For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present
nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other
created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Plain Brown Wrappers

Flower bulbs all look more or less alike..... plain brown. They just aren't particularly attractive. But hidden inside each bulb is a special identity which will cause it to be a certain color or have a certain fragrance.

When planted the bulbs will sprout and make an appearance above ground, soon becoming beautiful flowers and bringing forth fragrance. Then, as the flowers fade, if the bulbs are left in the ground, they will multiply, and the
following year there will be more bulbs and more flowers.

And so it is in life. As we are "planted", the flower that is within us will come forth and bloom. We have the
opportunity to bloom in many ways and many places. As the Lord leads us, we may bloom in our family, our
workplace, our neighborhood, our church..... wherever we are planted.

Those around us may only see the plain brown wrapper, but as we serve Him, fragrance will come forth, and He
will multiply our efforts.

Our wonderful God can take something very plain-looking and turn it into a thing of great beauty.....


"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us..."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ


© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Plain Brown Wrappers

Flower bulbs all look more or less alike..... plain brown. They just aren't particularly attractive. But hidden inside each bulb is a special identity which will cause it to be a certain color or have a certain fragrance.

When planted the bulbs will sprout and make an appearance above ground, soon becoming beautiful flowers and bringing forth fragrance. Then, as the flowers fade, if the bulbs are left in the ground, they will multiply, and the
following year there will be more bulbs and more flowers.

And so it is in life. As we are "planted", the flower that is within us will come forth and bloom. We have the
opportunity to bloom in many ways and many places. As the Lord leads us, we may bloom in our family, our
workplace, our neighborhood, our church..... wherever we are planted.

Those around us may only see the plain brown wrapper, but as we serve Him, fragrance will come forth, and He
will multiply our efforts.

Our wonderful God can take something very plain-looking and turn it into a thing of great beauty.....


"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us..."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ


© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

I Wish I Had A Puppy

A Children's Poem

I wish I had a puppy.
I think that would be fine!
I could be his very best friend,
And know that he'd be mine!

I could play with him all day
And sometimes take him for a walk.
We would understand each other,
Even though he couldn't talk.

I'm going to ask my Daddy...
Just to find out whether
I could have a little puppy.
We could grow up together!

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Spring

A lovely time of year......
When new life seems to appear everywhere.....
A time of new beginnings.

A season of encouragement......
Rich with promise......
A time to grow and spring forth......
A time of transformation and change.

Bright new days......
Of new ideas and color and fragrance and blossoming......
A time which uplifts and cheers one on.

Surely all the seasons are God's gift, but spring may be the best season...
When all things can become new.
A season of new opportunity awaits us......


"Oh, sing to the Lord a new song!
For He has done marvelous things."
Psalm 98:1 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Foot Of The Cross

Any and all may come.....

A place where all are equal......
A place where one can be transparent......
A safe place......

A place of rest for a weary soul......
A place of release for a broken heart.....
A place of comfort for the lonely and the hurting......
A place of redemption from sin and shame......

A new beginning......


THE CROSS

Is our friend......
Is an anchor point in a shaky world......


"Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising the shame, and has set down at the right hand of the throne of God."
Hebrews 12:1-2 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Sounds of Heaven

A Vision

I saw the sounds (music) of heaven..... iridescent, shimmering.....

The sounds are like "beads" of light..... tiny droplets full of liquid, embodying the life (life-giving presence) of Christ.

I saw "showers" of colored lights in the night sky..... as though handfuls of these little light beads had been thrown forth across the heavens..... first in one direction..... then in another..... almost resembling a color burst in a fireworks display. They were there for a few seconds and then dissolved into a refreshing dew filtering down. The "life" in the beads settled on all. I could feel the effect but could not see it or contain it as it settled.....

Perhaps the angels' wings fan the sprinkles of light beads through the air as their wings create a gentle wind.....

A dimension set apart. It is there all the time, but any touch of harshness will shut it away from our view.

The Spirit woos us..... "Come away, My beloved..... and enter in....."

Stillness.

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

For The Gardener

In springtime is promise of light-hearted fun
As flowers peek upward and reach for the sun.

The gardener delights as he watches each bloom,
Pulling out weeds so each plant will have room.

He nurtures and waters and carefully tends,
Enjoying his task as his service he lends.

God gives us flowers in lovely array.....
It seems every bloom His love does portray.

The blossoms bring joy and their scent fills the air.
Only God could make flowers.... so many and so rare.

The gardener's pleasure is endless, you see.
As he works with his hands, in his heart there is glee.

The gardener is blessed when his garden is done,
For he has touched God in the flowers..... each one.


"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us,
And establish the work of our hands for us....."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Spring Smiles

Winter starts to lose its grip
When spring decides to show her face,
For spring just seems to blossom forth
And winter's bleakness to displace.

Cheerfully she starts to show
In twig and shoot, leaf and flower.
All the earth begins to stir
In readiness for spring's bright hour.

Her appearance rushes on
And trees burst forth in glorious bloom.
Her fragrance fills the morning air
With nature's wondrous, sweet perfume.

Rest and slumber were the mode
As winter had its quiet day.
But all the earth will soon awaken,
As spring comes brightly on her way!


"And the earth brought forth grass, the herb that yields seed according to its kind, and the tree that yields fruit, whose seed is in itself according to its kind. And God saw that it was good."
Genesis 1:12 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Little Bird Who Flew Too Soon

A Children's Poem

The little bird who wanted to fly
Was really not ready, but wanted to try.
He fluttered his wings, but quickly he found
That he could not fly, and he fell to the ground.

He needed to grow some and strengthen his wings.
Before he could soar he should learn many things.
It isn't a good thing to strike out too soon.
Without good wisdom his life he could ruin.

So he decided that first he would sing.
If he did well, maybe strength it would bring.
He hopped and he sang, yet for flying he yearned.
But only with time little bird skills are learned.

Then one day suddenly he found he could fly.
He flew up excitedly high in the sky.
There were so many places he wanted to see,
So he flew and he flew, 'cause he felt fancy-free.

But he got too tired that very first day.
Even his feathers were blown all a-fray.
He did not think about needing to rest,
And wore himself out in his first flying test.

He simply could not in a hurry grow
And learn all the things that little birds know.
He found he could not on his very first try
Soar to great heights and master the sky.

So he decided that patience was needed
And learning from others, their lessons he heeded.
He would go slower and more careful be.
"This would be better and wiser," said he!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding..."
Proverbs 3:5 NKJ

2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Pure Waters

Oh, Lord.....
You are as a deep, deep well..... which never runs dry.

It is so good to come to Your well and drink.....
Your well is full of treasure..... a place of rich experience..... pure waters given from You..... plentiful and free-flowing.

I am nourished as I drink.....
I find refreshment..... and I am renewed.

In You, Lord, I am made whole..... and I am grateful.

"Whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life."
John 4:14 NKJ

2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Eyes Of A Child

How blessed is a child
Whose unclouded vision
Sees all of the world
With startling precision.

His words are so simple,
His view is still clear.
Observations he makes
Are pure and sincere.

Lord, help me to see
Through the eyes of a little one,
Whose special perspectives
Are priceless and fun.

"..... Out of the mouth of babes and nursing infants You have perfected praise....."
Matthew 21:16 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Humble Heart

Pride is selfish - and very blind.
It puts self first and is not kind.
Ego blurs the way it sees.
It will not bend or try to please.

It always thinks it's way is best.
To be around it is a test!
It's haughtiness will bring one low,
Will problems and contentions sow.

A man of humble spirit hears
And words of wisdom he reveres.
He has learned to quietly wait
And not let pride his way dictate.

He will pray and seek the Lord.
From this he will receive reward.
Much wisdom does his heart embrace...
A humble heart brings honor and grace.

"...Be clothed with humility, for God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble. Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time....."
I Peter 5:5-6 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Grandpa's Horse

Hilarious Moments

The horse jumped over the fence one day,
For she wanted to eat some oats and some hay.
She went to the barn and opened the door.
By using her teeth she moved the latch o'er.

Then she went in and found oats in a sack,
And she ate much more than just having a snack.
She overdid, and the oats made her sick.
The farmer then thought, "This horse I will trick."

He decided to buy an "electric" fence.
But the horse outwitted the fence with "horse sense".
She listened to hear the "click" the fence made.
It if wasn't turned on, then she wasn't afraid.

Over the fence she jumped with great ease,
Thinking her appetite she would appease.
But the farmer's son saw her and thought with some glee,
"I'll fix this horse... I'm smarter than she."

He found an egg a chicken had laid.
It had been there awhile and was somewhat decayed.
He hid in the barn and stayed very still
Until the horse entered. And then with great skill...

He threw the egg to startle the horse,
And splattered the egg in her mouth with some force.
She ran out the door with her nose to the ground.
With her mouth in the dirt she ran all around.

Then she ran through the marsh, and snorted and neighed.
What a high price for the oats she had paid!
She was dragging her nose to try to erase
The smell and the egg from off of her face.

Grandpa then changed the latch on the door,
But she still tried to get in and find the food "store".
She was much smarter than horses should be.
That she could outwit him, he would agree.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

He Is My Strength

If something has knocked the wind from your sails,
Or hope for the future suddenly pales,
Jesus will be there in your situation.
He is the One to rebuild your foundation.

What is before you just may not seem clear,
But He knows your heart and what you hold dear.
He will bring strength and the courage you need
As He carefully guides you in how to proceed.

As you fix your eyes on His purpose for you,
Your weakened foundation He'll start to renew.
He'll cause you to have very strong underpinning.
In Him is your hope for a fresh, new beginning.

"My flesh and my heart fail; but God is the strength of
my heart and my portion forever."
Psalm 73:26 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Follow The Leader

Children have a game they like to play, called "Follow the Leader". The idea is to watch the leader and then do exactly as he does. Small children love to mimic, and they take great delight in following along. They are fresh and open and uninhibited.

How much this is how the Lord wants us to be. He wants us to become as little children and follow Him. As we do that maybe He will....

"Set my feet upon a rock and establish my steps..."
Psalm 40:2b
or
Lead me to "run through a troop and leap over a wall..."
Psalm 18:29
or
"Make me to lie down in green pastures, lead me beside still waters, or restore my soul."
Psalm 23:1-3

The Lord wants to show each of us a path. He will lead each of us differently, for He knows our individual needs..... and each path that He gives will be exactly right for us.

"His sheep follow Him, for they know His voice."
John 10:4 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Work Of My Hands

When I've finished all my labors
And I think my work is done,
Have I really made a difference?
Perhaps my work has just begun...

Could it be that I'm not seeing
What is right before my eyes...
Your true meaning for my life...
And simply do not realize?

Lord, help me see as You would see
And do what You would have me do,
So I will know I've found Your purpose
When each precious day is through.

"Let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us...."
Psalm 90:17 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sarcasm's Edge

Sarcasm has it's comic use,
But never should it bring abuse.
It often has a cutting edge.
It's careless use can "drive a wedge".

Innuendo is it's tool,
Which some would use as ridicule.
It's painful twist can send a dart
Which hurts and wounds another's heart.

Sarcasm should have careful screening,
Lest we speak with two-pronged meaning.
It isn't useful commentary
And simply isn't necessary.

"The tongue of the wise promotes health."
Proverbs 12:18b NKJ

"The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly....."
Proverbs 15:2 NKJ

"A wholesome tongue is a tree of life....."
Proverbs 15:4 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Painted In Time

A smile in the heart brings a twinkle in the eye.
Joy deep within holds the promise of laughter.

Peace residing is reflected in softness.
Love and Kindness shine forth in warmth.

Time is the canvas upon which a life is painted.
The brush strokes are recorded there, and the
colors come forth in beauty and character.

And so a rare and unique painting over time is
created, and.......
The Master's touch makes it special....

"For the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the humble with salvation."
Psalm 149:4 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Bringing A Blessing

Oftentimes throughout the day
As I work or when I pray,
God will bring someone to mind.
This is not by chance, I find.

I may need to make a call
Or say a prayer, however small.
For God will show me how to "bless"
If I am willing to say "yes".

Someone might just have a need
And God will have me intercede.
Or maybe I should "bless" that one...
Blessing others can be fun!

These are only little things,
But great results this practice brings.
In spreading joy through words I pray,
Someone will be blessed each day.

"Let each of you look out not only for his own interests,
but also for the interests of others."
Philippians 2:4 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Cat Named "Felix"

There is a cat named Felix,
Whose fur is black and white.
He is a very nice kitty cat...
A little boy's delight!

When Felix is contented
He will snuggle up and purr.
Petting him is lots of fun...
He has such nice soft fur!

He likes to play with soft stuffed toys.
Maybe he thinks he has a mouse.
He makes me giggle as I watch him
Carry them all around the house.

Felix is a very nice pet...
I think he's so much fun!
I'm really glad that God made cats.
I know I have the very best one!


© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In God We Trust

In God we trust, in Him believe,
Into our lives His tenets weave.
We have chosen His Word to read
To find the wisdom that we need.

Often what we think is right
May seem okay... but isn't quite.
So we can search within the Word
And let His wisdom undergird.

When we're not sure which way to go,
It's best to wait until we know.
Always He will keep us steady,
And He will move when He is ready.

He may not move just as we think,
But from His voice we will not shrink.
For always He will know what's best.
In that we have His blessed rest.

In God we trust...

"He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, 'He is my refuge and my fortress; my God, in Him I will trust.'"
Psalm 91:1 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

True Worship

A Vision

The church was full that morning..... As the service started, the people moved quickly into praise.

As we moved from praise into worship the singing was glorious - hundreds of voices in harmony, with hearts and hands raised to our Living God. I looked across the auditorium, seeing a sea of faces and hearing the awesomeness of the worship, and I was deeply moved.

Then my eyes were drawn upward..... and I began to see what was going on in the Spirit. The auditorium had a high, beamed ceiling. The space above the worshippers was totally filled with fine silver threads, strung in every direction..... almost like spider webs. I could see currents of energy pulsing through the silver threads, with sparks of fire everywhere. If I had reached up, my hand would have bumped some of the threads because there were so many going in every direction.

I was literally seeing the power and movement of the Holy Spirit in that room. The air was alive with the presence of God. And I knew that lives were being changed and people were being healed.

How great and awesome is our God.....

"Exalt the Lord our God, and worship at His footstool;
For He is holy."
Psalm 99:5 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Perseverance

Perseverance wins it's race.

Perseverance
Breaks through barriers,
Jumps over hurdles,
Reaches the top of the mountain.

Perseverance
Keeps it's eye on the goal,
Doesn't give up,
Finishes it's job.

Perseverance
Looks neither to the left nor to the right,
Doesn't look back,
Accomplishes much.

Perseverance wins!

"And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."
Galatians 6:9 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Quiet Places

What a joy, what a privilege..... to withdraw into the quiet places with the Lord.....

When all is still and all the issues of the day
come to rest.... and when my mind is uncluttered and receptive.

There in the stillness I can enter in. A door opens..... and I sense the presence
of the Spirit.

As I wait, His presence causes the very atmosphere to change. For I lose track of self and only am aware of Him. This is the place of new life and refreshing..... communion with Him.

As He speaks I know that I will see with new eyes and hear with new ears and that I will have new perspective.

And so I seek the quiet places, knowing He will meet me there.....

And my life is enriched.

"How lovely is Your tabernacle, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, even faints for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."
Psalm 84:1-2 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Waffles And Bones

When we first got our pets we laid down firm rules that we were not going to feed the pets anything while having dinner. But then our little mutt learned to sit up by the table and wait with begging eyes. And then the cat would come and sit next to him, waiting. Well, they were both really cute, and the rules just never stood up to the test. Soon they were getting tasty tidbits of some of what we were eating.

One food that they liked in particular was waffles. They both liked them so well that it became a contest between them to see who could get the most. (They even got into a fight under our daughter's chair one morning, scaring her so that she let out a scream).

Sometimes if we had a leftover waffle, I would take it out and toss it up on the garage roof for the birds to eat. When the birds picked at the waffle, pieces of it would fall down over the edge of the roof and onto the ground. The cat and dog got wise to that, so whenever I threw a waffle up there they would sit down below just waiting for a piece to fall down.

This had been the case one summer morning when I went out to water some of the flowers I had planted the day before. As I pulled the hose through the gate, I saw the dog digging a hole right where I had planted a lovely chrysanthemum. He had a waffle and was digging a hole to bury it. Now if you gave this dog a bone he would chew on it till it was gone. But if you gave him a waffle, he would bury it... probably so the cat couldn't get it! When I saw where he was digging I sprinkled him with the hose. He didn't like getting sprinkled, so I figured that would back him off. He continued to dig. So then I just let the water run on his back (it was a warm day), but still he didn't stop. The plant was looking worse by the minute, so finally I gave him a swat, but he was intent on what he was doing. By this time both of us were wet. So I dropped the hose, picked him up, scolding him, and took him to another part of the yard. Then I went to turn the water off. When I came back to try to repair the damage to the chrysanthemum plant, I found the waffle with a large rock laying on it. The dog had laid a rock on it so the cat couldn't get it.

The plant survived, just barely, but the dog was really miffed at me. Even so I had to laugh at what he had done.

Sometimes when I put waffles out for the birds, the dog would even go up to the cat and smell her breath (he would sniff right in her face) to see if she had been eating waffles. He always tried to outdo her, but often he didn't win. I wonder how many waffles he buried...

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Strength

Lord
You are my footing..... my firm foundation.

You are that safe place to stand..... when everything is shifting...

Where I cannot be intimidated by the enemy,
Where I will not lose my footing,
Where I may find courage,
Where I will not fail,
but may have confidence.

You are my strength.


"It is God Who arms me with strength and makes my way perfect. He makes my feet like the feet of deer, and sets me on my high places."
Psalm 18:32 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Is

THE BEST PORTION IN LIFE

It warms and heals ..... softly and gently .....
It protects ..... guards ..... covers .....
It doesn't see faults, but always finds the best in you .....
It always sees you with a smile .....
It always encourages you to believe in yourself .....
It brings peace within ..... deep satisfaction and quiet .....
It brings strength and courage .....
It encourages the heart to sing .....

LOVE IS
A bridge over challenges .....
Makes a path through valleys .....
Finds a way to the top of the mountain .....

LOVE IS
The best gift of all .....

"Love never fails."
I Corinthians 13:8 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

No Greater Love

No Greater love
Than what He gave...
He gave His life
My life to save.

No greater gift...
With Him to be
Forever
Through eternity.

No greater Joy
Could He impart
Than when He speaks
Heart-to-heart.

No greater peace
Could fill my soul.
For Jesus Christ
Has made me whole.

"Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one's life for His friends."
John 15:13 NKJ


© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Of Rare Worth

Silver floss and golden threads
Are woven in the heart,
Many strands of greatest worth...
The Master's priceless art.

Insight upon insight, and
Godly thought on thought
Combined to stitch a rare design
And priceless beauty brought.

With filigree of grace and mercy,
Softest color, gentlest hue,
Interwoven love and beauty...
Jesus' handiwork in view.

All the riches in the world
Could not ever match its price,
For in this heart of rarest worth
Only heaven's riches will suffice.

"My heart rejoices in the Lord....."
I Samuel 2:1 NKJ`


© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Of Tears

It seems the heart is made up of tears.....
and tears are an expression of the heart.

When the heart is touched tenderly,
the tears will be soft and gentle.

When the heart is jarred or surprised,
the tears will be nervous tears.

When the heart is hurt or wounded,
the tears are painful, and
sometimes cannot even come forth.

When the heart is happy,
the tears are mingled with warmth and laughter,
healing and release.

When Jesus touches the heart,
Love is birthed there...
And the tears bring renewal and change.

For His gentle touch will cause the
painful tears to be forgotten,
And will fill the heart with happy tears.

He is the Master of all our tears.....

"You put my tears into Your bottle."
Psalm 56:8 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

For Your Friends

You saw a hand reaching out..... and You took it.
You heard a voice cry out..... and You answered.
You didn't just pass by.

You saw a face searching..... and didn't look away.
You saw a hungry soul..... and You fed him.
You didn't close the door of Your heart.

You helped the blind.
You comforted the sick.
You helped one who was cold.
You saved the lost.

You did, Jesus.

You did all these things unto me...


"Many waters cannot quench love, nor can the floods drown it."
Song of Solomon 8:7 NKJ


© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Hand Of God

A Vision

In my spirit I "see" a large open hand with upturned palm.... the hand of God. I see little birds coming to alight there, and they feed from His hand. It is a safe place, where they may rest and find nurture.....

They are so tiny and frail..... yet important to Him.

Even as He notices the little sparrows, He notices us and takes thought for our well-being. The hand of God is a hand of love and warmth..... always there..... a hand in which we may always trust.....

"You are of more value than many sparrows. Not one of them is forgotten before God."
Luke 12:6-7 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Train Up A Child

When we see a precious child
Turn to walk a worthless road,
It's so hard to watch their steps
And see them waste the "seeds" we sowed.

And yet if we have raised them right,
We have promise they'll return,
Give up their folly and frivolous way,
Come back to us and truth discern.

As parents we must trust and pray
When our children go astray
And do not choose to honor God,
But follow their own selfish way.

How much this makes the Father grieve
When our children make wrong choice.
But He is greater than the problem.
In this we truly can rejoice!!!

"Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it."
Proverbs 22:6 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Kitty Cat's Nap

Our wonderful cat climbed on a soft chair.
She had decided to take a nap there.
She washed her paws to make sure they were clean,
Then rolled onto her back and was very serene.

She stretched out her body in quiet repose,
Expecting to have quite a nice winter's "doze",
When the shade right above her flew up with a "snap",
Making quick end to the kitty cat's nap!

She rose up in the air, three feet off the chair!
She was not prepared for this kind of a scare!
She "flew" out the door on this cold winter's night,
With need to recover from her sudden fright.

Cats need nine lives.... she lost at least two
From this sudden excitement that she had gone through.
When the old roller shade rolled up with a "snap"
It frazzled her nerves and ended her nap!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Quiet Heart

A quiet heart is soft and gentle... and is very beautiful.
It has learned to reside in that place of peace and "resting" which is the presence of God.

A quiet heart will practice love and and choose peace and joy as it's companions.
A quiet heart thinks well of others.

It will not waver... or struggle... or fear, but will trust.
It will speak softly and carefully, and it's words will be healing words.

It will be able to see clearly and hear accurately, for it is sensitive to the Spirit of God.
A quiet heart is very beautiful in the sight of God.

"He leads me beside the still and restful waters."
Psalm 23:2 Amplified Bible

"Let not yours be the (merely) external adorning with (elaborate) interweaving and knotting of the hair, the wearing of jewelry, or changes of clothes; but let it be the inward adorning and beauty of the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible and unfading charm of a gentle and peaceful spirit, which (is not anxious or wrought up, but) is very precious in the sight of God."
I Peter 3:3-4 Amplified Bible

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Forgiveness

Forgiveness in a gentle heart
Will offset wounds and words that "smart".
When we forgive and choose to pray,
Bitterness will fall away.

For unforgiveness hurts the one
Who will not let offense be "done".
It sometimes hides behind facade
But blocks relationship to God.

If it stays, it makes one ill.
In all life's corners it will spill.
The one who carries it will bog down.
It is a very heavy "crown".

Don't let unforgiveness start
And then reside within the heart.
Forgiving others is the key.
When we forgive, then we are free.

"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you."
Matthew 6:14 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Master Weaver

God is the Master Weaver.....

When He creates a design He chooses only the finest threads and combines the most brilliant of colors.

His designs have great beauty and are intricate and very finely woven. His attention to detail is very precise as He blends the threads carefully to make rich harmony of color.

Each design is uniquely different and has great value and worth..... because the Master has skillfully and lovingly fashioned it with His own tender, loving hands.

In His hands, life becomes a beautiful tapestry.

"Your hands have made me and fashioned me."
Psalm 119:73 NKJ


© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Pets Are Important Too

One evening the guys in our family went out and took our dog, Scruffy, with them. They were gone for a few hours, and we didn't see them again until just after 9:00 p.m.

When they came in I noticed that Scruffy was limping. Apparently they had been running with Scruffy on the leash, and somehow Scruffy, in the excitement, got tangled in the leash, dragging one back leg on the pavement. Since it was dark out they didn't really see the extent of what had happened to him until they got home.

I looked at his leg and was horrified. The fur and skin on his back knee joint were rubbed away and I could actually see right into the knee joint. It was too late in the day to take him to the vet, so, not knowing what to do for him, I prayed and asked God to heal him.

By morning he could not walk. So as soon as the veterinary clinic opened, we took him in. The vet looked at the problem and said that infection had set in. He needed to keep him overnight so that he could give him antibiotics and then observe his progress.

As we came out of the clinic, I remember thinking, "It's sure going to be 'dead' around the house without this little guy to liven things up", and, "I sure hope he gets well", and, "His leg sure won't look very good with all the fur gone". So I went home and prayed again that God would heal him.

God heard my prayers. Scruffy only had to stay at the veterinary clinic till the next morning because his progress had been good. We could see that he was healing up nicely, and when we brought him home, again he could run all over the house. But God was yet going to do something really special in this situation. Not only did He totally heal Scruffy's knee, but all the fur grew back within a week or so! The vet had said it would take several weeks.

Surely God cares for our pets when we pray for them!


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Forest Story

Fir Tree
Said the fir tree to the fern,
"There is much that you could learn.
It is good to be a fine tall tree,
So you should learn to be like me!"

Fern
Said the fern unto the tree,
"Just like you I cannot be.
My roots are not like yours, you see.
I have my own identity."

"When strong winds blow, you bend and shake.
When snowstorms come, you sometimes break.
So even though you're very tall,
You simply do not know it all!"

Fir Tree
"But I give shade and I stay green.
I beautify a winter scene.
And sometimes people need my wood.
All my purpose is for good!"

Fern
"Even I enjoy your shade.
But for different purpose we are made.
I am content to just be me...
God did not make of me a tree."

"My place is not so tall to grow,
But to be satisfied here below.
My humble purpose you don't see.
God made a fern when He made me."

"Most men will proclaim each his own goodness. But who can find a faithful man?"
Proverbs 20:6 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Pat On The Back

A "pat on the back" is a really good thing,
To lift up the heart and encouragement bring.
This will speak volumes... it means that you care.
It lets people know that you are aware.

It may make the difference to help one be strong,
And if they are weary, to cheer them along.
Maybe a good word will help someone "win",
Or, if they are nervous, will help them "begin".

Encouraging words which are happy and bright
Will just make life better and bring smiles of delight!
A "pat on the back" is a wonderful touch.
In today's world it is needed so much.

"And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works."
Hebrews 10:24 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Cookies'n Crumbs

When I bake cookies, I always want to use the finest ingredients. So when I shop I search for the best chocolate morsels and dried fruits. I buy pure extracts, rather than imitation. And when I bake my cookies, I carefully watch them so that they don't burn.

I want to have a supply of the best cookies so that I will be able to share them with others. And then when the cookies are all gone and only crumbs are left, I must replenish the supply..... for crumbs are not enough.

Reading the Word of God is like that. When God gave us His Word, He gave us His very best. His Word is full of "choice morsels" of wisdom. It is good to "stock up" so that I have a "store" of strength to draw upon. If I don't stay in the Word, pretty soon I will be in the "crumbs" stage..... not much left to go on. And I won't have anything of substance to share with others.....

If I want to be strong, I know I must "dine" in the Word and "stay full".... the Word of God is life's most gourmet food.....

"Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart."
Jeremiah 15:16a NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Expressions Of The Heart

The words of the heart are written
in the countenance and expressed in one's actions.

What is hidden there will reflect in that life, and
steer it in the right (or the wrong) direction.

What is there will "keep" the heart or destroy it,
stunt it's growth and cloud it's vision, or
cause it to prosper and fulfill God's intended design.

How wonderful the imprint of Jesus
on a heart... to keep it tender and pure,
and cause it to blossom and smile.

For a smiling heart is a gift from Him,
and it speaks of His love and beauty.

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my redeemer."
Psalm 19:14 NKJ

© 2005 ArleneSchwartzkopf

One Sunday Morning

A True Story

The singing was nice in the church that day,
As we readied to hear what the preacher would say.
But before he would speak we would have celebration
As a family came forth for a baby dedication.

While the preacher was praying, their child bumped the flowers,
Drenching the floor with un-needed "showers".
The water ran into a vent in the floor
With a loud dripping sound you couldn't ignore.

An elder came in with a pail and a mop
To clean up the mess so the dripping would stop.
He mopped up the water... cleaned up every drop,
Each time making noise when he squeezed out the mop.

The wife of the elder sat by me in choir,
Trying to act "reverent", as manners require.
Though harder and harder she tried not to giggle,
She was shaking so hard she made the pew wiggle.

I was biting my tongue to keep a straight face,
When just then the elder... Without any grace
Backed into the pail, and the water all went
Back onto the floor, dripping into the vent.

The elder's wife "lost it" and now the pew shook.
I stared down in my lap, afraid even to look.
I was laughing so hard, it made my sides ache,
Wondering what the next clean-up would take.

Then once again he started to mop,
As the water in the vent went, "plop, plop, plop".
He finally finished and went out with the pail.
Now the preacher could preach and order could prevail.

The preacher kept speaking through all of the fuss.
He tried to stay focused, which was a real "plus".
When the service was over, much to my dismay,
I didn't remember the message that day.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sing To The Lord

Gram is almost 100 years old and has many interesting tales to tell of her life on the farm as a young girl.

One such story was about a cow they had. This cow was testy and mean, and Gram and her sister always had trouble milking her. Each time before they could finish, she would put her foot in the milk pail or kick the pail over, spilling out all the milk.

So one day these two young girls decided to sing while they were milking her. And to their surprise, she no longer would kick the pail over. Also, each time the girls started singing, the other cows all lined up by the fence to listen.

One day I said to Gram, "By the way, what kind of songs were you singing?"

Her answer was, "Church songs."

This all took place back in the early 1900's, so I have often wondered what these two young girls might have been singing..... maybe, "Onward Christian Soldiers", or "The Little Brown Church In The Wildwood", or "Jesus Loves Me", or "Amazing Grace". These are only guesses, and it's fun to think about, but singing "church songs" became a solution for a problem they otherwise could not solve.

"I will sing to the Lord as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being."
Psalm 104:33 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Footpath

God will make a footpath
When you cannot find your way.
He will show you where to step
And all your fears allay.

His path may be the only one
As light of day grows dim,
But you can find that footpath
As you trust and wait on Him.

He will not forsake you
Nor leave you all alone,
But faithfully will guide you
Through those times which are unknown.

You can trust in Jesus...
That He will light your way
And guide you in a careful path,
Every hour and every day.

"Teach me Your way, O Lord, and lead me in a smooth path, because of my enemies."
Psalm 27:11 NKJ

"My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He Who keeps you will not slumber."
Psalm 121:2-3 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Joy

Joy warms the heart.
Joy buoys up the spirit.
Joy gives balance for a heavy load.

Joy has a positive outlook.
Joy looks up.
Joy brings peace.

Joy promotes healing
Joy changes perspective.
Joy is as a fragrant salve for the spirit..... a healing balm.

Joy is the smile of God within us..... richly adorning the countenance and transforming the heart.

"In Your presence is fullness of joy..."
Psalm 16:11 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Instrument Of Worship

A Vision

I looked at the piano before me..... it was a deep, warm red, burnished with gold. The finish was pearlescent in appearance. I had never seen color like that before..... nor had I seen a finish like that.....

As I stood and gazed at the piano, I realized that it was translucent.... I could see through the phenomenally beautiful frame of it. Inside were infrared coils. The coils were radiating intense heat, but I could stand right next to this piano and not be burnt.

What God was showing me was that He inhabits an instrument when it is used for worship. It "comes alive" and radiates the warmth of the Holy Spirit as it is being played. The sound of that instrument is transformed by His presence.

"Praise Him with stringed instruments and flutes."
Psalm 150:4b NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Little Lost Lamb

A little lamb went out to play,
And soon he couldn't find the way
Back to where the other sheep stay.
He found himself quite far astray.

So he decided to explore
What he had not seen heretofore.
As he searched and looked around,
Pain and sorrow are what he found.

Other sheep were cruel and mean,
And he had no shepherd on which to lean.
They mocked and laughed at his small bleat
And gave him things he should not eat.

They only thought of selfish gain,
And now the lamb had fear and pain.
He longed to find his very own flock,
For being lost was quite a shock.

The Shepherd knew how little lambs stray
And how they sometimes lose their way.
He went to find His little sheep
Because His love for him was deep.

He brought him back into the fold
And held him close 'cause he was cold.
It isn't good to wander away,
But with the Shepherd to always stay.

"If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them goes astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine and go to the mountains to seek the one that is straying? And if he should find it, assuredly, I say to you, he rejoices more over that sheep than over the ninety-nine that did not go astray."
Matthew 18:12-13 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Blessed Home

How blessed is the home
Which has learned not to "rush",
But has chosen a schedule
Which won't stress or "crush".

Families today
Are in a real bind,
With too much to do
And too much on their mind.

By too much involvement
Or extra time spent
On outside activities,
Families are rent.

Blessed is the family
That spends time together,
For they will come through
Tough times and "bad weather".

They will have learned
To stay close to each other
And appreciate sister,
Mom, Dad and brother.

How blessed is the home
Where "family" is found,
Where good times and joy
And laughter abound.

"By wisdom a house is built, and by understanding it is established; by knowledge the rooms are filled with all precious and pleasant riches."
Proverbs 24:3-4 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Threads Of Loveliness

The Lord weaves threads of His loveliness into each day to bring added dimension to every aspect of our experience..... so that as we move through each day we may see His beauty, feel His touch and perceive His presence all around us. His beauty is woven throughout all of His creation. How great are His benefits to His children.

As we diligently seek Him, His beauty becomes more and more visible to us, and increasingly we will comprehend the richness of His love and caring..... whereby we are very rich.

"One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple."
Psalm 27:4 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Senior Moments

When my "get up and go"
Just got up and went,
I sat down to rest,
Though I had good intent!

When I go to the fridge,
Then forget what I need,
Sometimes it takes me
Two tries to succeed!

But being a senior
Is not all that bad.
I can laugh at myself
(As I check my notepad).

I can do things at leisure,
I don't need to hurry.
I'd rather have fun
Than to fuss, fret and worry.

I have time to laugh,
I have time to putter.
(But I've saved too much stuff).
Gotta' clean up the clutter!

I have time for my family
Or time for a friend,
Or reading a book
Or letters to send.

Or I can sit in my rocker
And just reminisce,
Thanking God everyday
For this season of bliss!

It's a good season!

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Lesson Learned

A Children's Poem

Bobby yelled, Suzy hit me,
Jason took my toy.
When I have these kinds of days,
It seems I lose my joy!

I should try to like these kids...
(Sometimes it isn't easy!)
But then I have my bad days too,
When I just feel uneasy.

When I go to Sunday School
They teach me to be good...
That Jesus helps us boys and girls
To act the way we should.

So I forgive my little friends,
No matter what they do.
If I'm nice and kind to them,
Maybe they'll be nice too.

"Love suffers long and is kind."
I Corinthians 13:4 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

People Who Inspire

Dorothy

Dorothy was a very special lady......

I first met her as she stood at the door of our church greeting people. Always she was there with a big smile, welcoming people. She was well-dressed and always well-groomed.

Dorothy was petite..... perhaps four feet, ten inches tall. But I never thought of her as small, because as a prayer warrior she was more like nine feet tall - she was mighty!

She was an organist, playing for several churches over time, even into her 70's. She loved the Lord and loved to worship Him.

At times her life had not been easy, but I never heard her complain. Dorothy was married twice..... and widowed twice. I commented to her one day, "It must have been really hard to go through losing a husband twice!"

Her answer was, "Well, I never felt really alone. Jesus was always with me." This was the most prominent thing about Dorothy, and it was the secret to who she was. She knew the Lord well and always walked in His presence. She said once that when she worked full-time, she would go to her car on her lunch hour so she could read the Word and talk to Him. She had conversation with Him all through her day.

When I was going through a dark time in my life, she came alongside me in prayer, and she called me every evening to pray and encourage me. Then one morning she called me early and asked, "Arlene, are you okay?"

I said, "I think I am" ..... wondering what she meant.

She answered, "No, you aren't. You're in shock. I've been up all night praying for you!" (She was already in her 70's at this time.)

I had received some news the night before and had shared it with her. The news didn't affect me at first, but she was right. As the days went by, I realized that I was indeed in shock. It was like a cloud hanging over me, and I just couldn't function right. Nor could I change the condition by myself, because I just needed time to heal. But Dorothy stood by me daily in prayer and, after four and one-half months, the cloud lifted.

Her faithfulness as a friend was remarkable. From a heart of love, always she reached out to serve others. She stayed by my side for several years and was a very wonderful inspiration in my life.

At age 78 she went home to be with Jesus, Who was her very best friend.


"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-17 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Stained Glass

The mosaic of a life is as stained glass.....
Pieces fitted together by the Master's hand.........
Colors carefully placed in unique design, made to be transparent.......

The beauty of the finished design can only be discovered
when His light shines from within.

When that life is filled with His light the brilliant colors become visible, and the rich reflections fall on everyone near......

"Your hands have made me and fashioned me...."
Psalm 119:73 NKJ

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Child's Touch

A little child came and touched my heart
When I was weary and falling apart.

He brought me a lamb so I wouldn't be sad,
With a smile and a hug to make my heart glad.

And so my heart healed. I no longer felt "teary".
He lifted me up.... I no longer was weary.

How pure and sincere was the love of this child...
Not harsh as the world, but gentle and mild.

The compassion in him was beyond his young years.
God used him to heal me and stop all my tears.

"Love never fails."
I Corinthians 13:8 NKJ

"Out of the mouth of babes and infants You have ordained strength."
Psalm 8:2 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Rooms Of My Life

If Jesus came into
The rooms of my mind,
What would be waiting there?
What would He find?

Would negative thoughts and
Doubt make Him weep?
Would meaningless clutter
Be piled in a heap?

If Jesus came into
The rooms of my heart,
Would He be at peace there,
Or want to depart?

Can I stop what I'm doing
And set all aside
So He can find welcome
And want to reside?

Sometimes our Savior
Cannot find a "home",
For we don't receive Him
And cause Him to roam...

In search of a life
Which will give Him first place...
Where the rooms are quite full
Of His beauty and grace.

"Set your mind on things above, not on things of the earth."
Colossians 2:2 NKJ

"My heart and my flesh cry out for the living God."
Psalm 84:2b NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Special Quilt

Always I have been fascinated by patchwork quilts.....

You cannot just "glance" at a patchwork quilt. There is much more there to see. And so I always find myself lingering and looking at all the different colors and designs of fabrics which have been stitched together. When my grandmother made quilts, she used even the smallest pieces of fabric and stitched them somewhere into the quilt top, and all the pieces were important to the beauty of the quilt.

The Body of Christ is like that. It is as though the Lord has made a quilt..... of myriad colors and patterns and prints and carefully joined them together.....

The Lord takes His beautiful, variegated "fabrics" and places them together in the quilt which is His Body. In His quilt are warmth and strength, healing and comfort, joy and peace, laughter and courage, fellowship and "family". Usually quilts have a binding, and the binding around this quilt is love.

As we become "patches" in His beautifully planned quilt, we are joined together, one with another. And we become part of His rich design.

This is His Body.....
This is His Handiwork.....

"Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God."
I John 4:7 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Grouch

THE TURTLE AND THE PORCUPINE

Snappy was a turtle,
And Snappy wasn't happy.
(He was a GROUCH!)

Porci was a porcupine
And was in trouble all the time!
(Too many QUILLS!)

Neither one could find a friend
Because they always would offend.

It isn't good to snap at others...
Friends and neighbors, moms and brothers.
It's even worse to send a quill.
It seems to dampen ALL good will!

These little creatures bring reminder...
Every day we should be kinder.
God has shown us through His Son
We should be kind to everyone.

"Love suffers long and is kind. Love does not behave rudely."
I Corinthinas 13:4a & 5a NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Best Answer

Lord, You are.....

The One Who sorts out the confusions of my life,
The One Who strengthens me when I am faint,
The One Who gives endurance when I am weary,
The One Who gives sufficiency when I am inadequate.

When I LEAN on You, I find balance.
When I RETREAT into Your presence, I move forward.
When I BOW DOWN before You, yet I shall stand taller.
When I GIVE UP my will to You, I shall find my purpose.

All that I place in Your hands rests safely and has promise...


"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped."
Psalm 28:7 NKJ

"A man's steps are of the Lord; how then can a man understand his own way?"
Proverbs 20:24 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Pretty Coat

God's blessings and provision are always wonderful and have often brought joy to my life in a beautiful way.

One day I walked into church and noticed that a lady there had on a very lovely black velvet coat with leather trim. I thought it was beautiful, and within myself quietly said, "Oh, I would love to have a coat like that some day." I wasn't shopping for a coat, and I didn't think I could afford anything like that anyway. It was only a thought at the time, and then I didn't think any more about it. And I didn't say anything to my family or anyone else about it.

Approximately two weeks later I received a call from someone saying that they had a coat that they thought I would like and that they wanted to give it to me. When I saw it I was really blessed and much amazed. This too was a lovely velvet coat.... not the same as the one I had seen previously, but equally beautiful. And it fit me perfectly.

God knows all about our needs and wants. He knows our every thought. Through this event, I became so aware of how much He cares for every aspect of our lives and how much He wants to bless His children.

"Delight yourself also in the Lord, and He shall give you the desires of your heart."
Psalm 37:4 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Poor Me

Self-pity sings it's woeful song
Because "the world has done it wrong!"
It mopes and weeps and carries on.
"Poor me" it sings the whole day long.

It's hard to have this thing around.
It spoils your joy and pulls you down.
It will not let you help it out.
It only wants to sit and pout!

It will not look beyond it's nose.
But wails and moans and tantrums throws.
And so it's sorrow grows and grows
As it centers on it's woes.

What a crummy partner - he
Who calls himself with pride "self-pity".
Don't let him in to roam about.
Shut the door and keep him out!

"Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Parking Attendant

THE PARKING LOT ATTENDANT

In years past I needed to take a series of allergy shots, which required my going downtown to the medical center where my doctor had his office. Next to the medical building was a parking lot and, for convenience' sake, I would park there to save time each time I went.

The man who ran the lot was tall and very unhappy looking. At first I was quite apprehensive of him. Time after time I took my car to his lot, but always he was uncommunicative, and he never smiled.

Over a period of time I noticed that he ran his lot well and gave good service to people. And he didn't seem to miss any days. He was there in the heat of summer (you could see the heat coming up off the asphalt), and he was there in the cold of winter.

So I began to greet him each time with a cheery "good morning", and then thanked him each time I left. But still there was never any trace of emotion in his eyes or in his facial expression or in his voice.

One morning when I needed to go downtown for my shot, it was very, very cold out. The temperature was in the 20-degree range and it was windy. I thought about the man in the lot, and the Lord gave me an idea.....

I put some oatmeal cookies in a plastic container for him. And then I was hoping as I drove downtown that I could get him some coffee from the coffee shop in the medical center. Now we have "take-out" coffee available everywhere, but that was not true back then.

As I pulled into the parking lot, the attendant was there, bracing himself against the wind and looking very chilled. I went into the medical center and got my allergy shot, and then I headed for the coffee shop. I told the waitress I wanted to take coffee to the parking lot fellow and asked if she could help me. She found some styrofoam cups, so I now had a hot drink to take to the man.

When I came out of the building into the parking lot, the wind was blowing so hard that I wondered if the coffee would still be hot when I gave it to him. I tried to be casual as I spoke to him..... "It's cold out here. You need something hot to drink!"

Then I handed him the cookie container..... "Here is something to go with the coffee....." There were a few awkward seconds, because he didn't know what to say. So I went on with..... "I'll get the container later. Thank you for good service."

At this point a miracle happened..... he began to smile..... only for a few moments..... but he did smile.....

I do not know what the burden was in his life that caused him to be so withdrawn and unhappy, but perhaps....... just perhaps....... he remembers that someone cared for him at some point in his life. And maybe somehow or some way it might help him to have courage at a later time when all around him is failing.....

The reward I felt at seeing him even be able to smile was so much more than the effort it took to reach out to him.....

"Just as you want men to do to you, you also
do to them likewise."
Luke 6:31 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Violet Seasons

The Lesson of the Violet
Seasons of Rest

I saw my little violet plant,
So full of lovely bloom.....
But it's little pot it would outgrow,
It's roots would need more room.

So when it found a larger "home"
Where it's roots could spread and grow,
It needed time to gain new strength
Before again it's bloom would show.

You couldn't see it doing much.....
It wasn't getting "oohs" and "aahs",
But hidden growth was happening
During this time of rest and pause.

Until the pot it's roots could fill,
It needed nurture, love and care,
And when it's timing was complete
Again it's blossom would be there.

Lord,

Thank You for giving seasons of rest..... those quiet times for finding nurture and new strength in You. For when I am rested and strengthened in You, then I can blossom again.....

In Jesus' Name.

"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for Him....."
Psalm 37:7 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Peace

Lord.....

You are my Anchor when the winds of change are blowing hard.....

You are my Calm when everything seems to be shaking.....

You are my Place of Retreat when life is pulling at me.....

You bring.....

Blessed Stillness for my mind,
Tranquility for my emotions,
Deep Peace for my soul.

In You I may quietly rest.

"Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing causes them to stumble."
Psalm 119:165 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Opportunities And Challenges

When we have a major challenge
And don't know how to meet it,
Sometimes changing our perspective
Can be a very real benefit.

We shouldn't view it as a problem
Or something we deplore,
But as an opportunity
Which may open up a door.

Opportunity invites one in
And offers bright, new interest.
It becomes a fresh approach
For how our thoughts are processed.

So see your challenge as a chance
To meet with opportunity.
Then smile and set your hand to work
With lively ingenuity!

"I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me."
Philippians 4:13 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Healing Power

How gracious and caring is our God.......

I was sitting at my table one day, writing. For no particular reason I glanced down at my wrist and, to my great surprise and horror, saw a lump there. For a moment I just sat there, stunned, trying to assimilate all the ramifications of what that could mean. The lump was about the size of a large pea and stuck up very noticeably on top of my hand right where it bends into the wrist. I felt the lump, and it was hard.

At that time I was a pianist in a large church with many services. I knew this situation could mean having to take time off from playing, and I didn't want to do that because I totally loved worshipping the Lord at the piano. Also I had a family to care for. I was a busy person. I cried out to the Lord, "Lord, I don't have time for this!!!" That was all I did right at that moment, and then went back to my writing.

As I look back, it was strange. I didn't even pray about the situation. I just cried out to the Lord.... and He heard my cry. At that point He touched me in an unusual way, because I totally forgot the whole experience..... until one day several months later. All of a sudden, I remembered it. Quickly I looked down at my wrist, and the lump was gone! God had totally healed my wrist. And He took away even the thoughts or anxiety I might have had in this situation. I don't know when He healed me, but the work was complete. My wrist was all smooth-looking once again.

We truly have an awesome God!

"Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise You. Thus I will bless You while I live; I will lift up my hands in Your name."
Psalm 63:3-4 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Early Lessons

A little boy went off to school
To learn about the Golden Rule.
The book he read was "Pilgrim's Progress".
Bible truths he could express.

The Ten Commandments then were taught
And students learned them as they ought.
Godly standards were the measure.
And classrooms then were full of "treasure".

The freedoms which those children had
Have been denied the current grad...
The culture that we have today
Has made bad choice and lost it's way.

America, you've come too far
Away from who you really are.
Godly men who fled oppression
Founded you through intercession.

Faith in God will heal our nation
And restore our firm foundation.
If in God we trust and wait,
Prayer and faith will keep us great.

"Through God we will do valiantly, for it is He Who shall tread down our enemies."
Psalm 60:12 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Beautiful Hands

The work of one's hands often shows the love of one's heart.....

I have been blessed to come to know two ladies who I think have very beautiful hearts... as evidenced by the work of their hands.

These two ladies, Mabel and Hazel, had been working in a church center which ministered to and helped poor people. When the church center closed down they, along with a few other ladies (Zelda, Linda, Helen, Lois, Gloria and Betty), still had a desire to do something for those who needed help. So they decided to make quilts. One day a week they would gather together at Mabel's home, and would cut and sew and hand-tie quilts. Usually there were four or five ladies working, but toward the end there were only three. When the quilts were finished they would give them to people in need.

This may not sound like a very big thing to some. But because they were willing to do this project over a long period of time, the results were extraordinary. Over a period of six years these lovely ladies made 998 quilts and gave all of them away.

Mabel commented that they only quit their project because it began to cause pain in their fingers to pin and sew the quilts. So they have now given the quilt tops that weren't yet completed to a group who is making lap robes for the mentally ill.

What started out as a small thing amounted to MUCH.... simply because they were faithful to continue on. What an inspiration!

"She extends her hand to the poor, yes, she reaches out her hands to the needy."
Proverbs 31:20 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Winter's Blessing

In the still of winter
As the earth has rest from labor,
I ponder what the year will bring
As spring begins to stir.

The quiet hush of snowfall,
As it wraps my world in white,
Speaks peace into my spirit,
Does rest and pause invite.....

.....To reflect on Christ my Lord
And blessings given throughout the year,
And then to wait for Him to speak
And the new year's promise to appear.

Gentle snowflakes - winter wonder
Blanketing and covering all.....
A precious time to seek His purpose.....
Even as snow, let manna fall.....

"Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths.....
On You I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4, 5b NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wisdom

Wisdom is a rich adornment
A lovely gift for sure,
And is found in full abundance
In God's Word so pure.

Wisdom is God's covering
To help us through each day,
Given to guide and guard us
Lest our footsteps go astray.

He spills it out around us
That we might careful be.
For as we seek to know His ways,
This gift will keep us free.

Long life and peace and happiness
Will follow all our days.
Health and strength and confidence
Will accompany our ways.

Happy is he who gathers it
And collects it in large measure,
Who savors the gold and silver in it.
For He will have found treasure.

"If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, Who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him."
James 1:5 NKJ

"The wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy."
James 3:17 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy New Year

A FRESH PERSPECTIVE

A few times over the years I have started to keep a diary. But each time, after awhile, I would lose interest and begin to skip days..... and finally give up and stop writing.

Lately I have been thinking about this. If a book were to be written of my life, including everything I have ever done, what would it speak to others?

First of all, I would want the pages to be filled with wisdom. I would want my life story to hold lessons of value... to leave a Godly heritage for others. I would want the pages to be filled with many good things and be a written record of beauty and worth... something that would become an encouragement to others. I would want others to find Jesus because of the witness of my life.

To picture my life in writing gives fresh new perspective to everything I do. I want my life to really count! As I serve the Living God I have opportunity to leave a good heritage. Perhaps by this the lives of my children, or grandchildren, or family, or friends or neighbors might be enriched and blessed. How sad it would be if my life had not "touched" someone else's life or had no positive impact on those who know me.....

"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf