Too Much In A Rush

Every day people get in a huff
Over jobs and traffic and things and stuff!
Now what good purpose can there be
For being upset to this degree?

When people get too much in a hurry,
They start to fuss and fret and worry.
Surely there is a better way
To handle things and get through the day!

God has a plan to save us from this
So important things we will not miss.
Society says we must rush to and fro.
What's happened to "rest"? Where did it go?

When we turn to God, HE sorts this all out
And teaches us truly what life is about.
Then we can slow down and rest in His peace
And be blessed when the "hurry and scurry" will cease.


"Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these."

"If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?"

"And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind."

"For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things."

"But rather seek ye the kindgom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you."
Luke 12:27 to 31 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Friend, Grace

I have a special friend named Grace.
My life is wrapped in her embrace.
In every circumstance I feel
That her companionship is real.

She is there when I don't know
Which way to turn or where to go.
She quickly offers me a hand
When I am weak or I can't stand.

Grace extends my limitation,
Filling me with consolation.
She is faithful to abide,
Whate'er my need or what betide.

What a gentle, faithful friend...
More than I can comprehend.
My daily load I lightly bear
Knowing Grace is always there.

"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye always having all sufficiency in all good things, may abound to every good work."
II Corinthians 9:8 KJV

"And he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee; for my strength is made perfect in weakness.' "
II Corinthians 12:8 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sidetracked

My telephone sure rings a lot.
It sometimes puts me in a "spot".
Time flies if I'm having fun,
But there are things I should have done.

Now I'm running quite behind.
(Maybe others will not mind...)
Whoops! My favorite show is on.
(I wonder where my time has gone?)

I have "stuff" to put away
But see the sun is out today.
I think I'll take a little walk
And find someone with whom to talk.

The wash can wait... I'll do it later.
Work is not my motivator.
I'll just lay these "piles" aside...
It won't hurt to "let them ride".

Omigosh! I lost my keys.
Now my mind is not at ease!
I know I put them here someplace.
THESE problems I don't like to face!

I can't even find my purse.
This day is REALLY getting worse!
Help! I'm drowning in my mess.
This is NOT fun... I confess!

My time is wasted and I'm "spent".
I just don't know where this day went.
I probably should organize.
To make some order would be wise.

If I'm honest, in review,
I can't put off what I should do.
Those things that I don't do today
Simply will not go away!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Times Of Prayer

MOMENTS WITH HIM


Lord Jesus, in Your presence, Your very precious presence, is that sweet, sweet place of rest..... where I can bare my heaart and share my every thought, and know peace..... deep, abiding peace.

All that has flooded over me now seems very distant and insignificant in the light of Your beauty and grace. I wonder why I struggled so.....

You are there always..... waiting for me to come..... and desiring to share with me. In Your presence is awesome peace, and I can feel Your joy pouring over me. All tension is released.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Encourages

Everybody needs to know
That someone somewhere cares for them.
Though that one be near or far
Their love is as a precious gem.

It's presence is as gold and myrrh,
It's worth is more than can be told...
A precious gift between two hearts
Which can't be bought and won't be sold.

It sparks new life and buoys one up,
Bringing joy and warmth within.
It often brings the courage
Which enables one to "soar" and win.

That one who's loved will often smile,
Knowing there is one who cares,
For love expressed in little ways
A priceless crown of beauty wears.

"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene

Friendship Is ...

Friendship is a treasure.....

A gift to the heart..... from the heart.

An expression of good, shining brightly.

A warm gladness.

Grace with fragrance.

Pleasing and delightful and refreshing.

"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Symphony Of Praise

Wtih voices ringing, worship singing,
Chorus flowing, praises growing,
Happy folks their praises bring
To their wondrous God and King!

Adoration sweetly dwells,
Sound of worship richly swells.
Hearts are tuned unto the Lord
In sacrifice of praise outpoured.

Heaven's harmonies are found
Where loving hearts are joined in sound.
God's dear children will agree,
The song become a symphony!


"Give unto the Lord the glory due unto his name: bring an offering, and come before him: worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness."
I Chronicles 16:29 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Little Girls

What is so cute as little girls
With all their smiles and fluff and curls?
...Little angels in disguise,
Full of laughter and surprise.

Who can melt your heart this way
And make you giggle by what they say?
...These little gifts from heaven above,
Filled with gentleness and love.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Two Thieves

We choose very carefully where we will go
And guard against problems, lest we should have woe.
We filter our reading to make sure it's pure
And only choose friends of whom we are sure.

But still we have open both window and door.
Our computers and TV's much evil can store.
Approach with discretion the use of THESE two.
Into our lives much info they spew.

If we're not careful, our homes they will fill
With exposures which harm or can even make ill.
They may "color" or taint with darkness and fear
All of our thoughts and those things we hold dear.

"I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes..."
Psalm 101:3 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Great Peace Have They

The place of "resting" is so sweet...
When all is peace within my soul.
Then nervousness and stress and fear
Just cannot take their fearsome toll.

How precious is this place of rest,
Where blessed assurance from above
Guards and covers all I do...
God's wondrous gift of grace and love.

I need not worry, strive or fret
But lean in trust on Jesus' arm,
For He will fill me with His peace
And shield my life from all alarm.

"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee."
Isaiah 26:3 KJV

"Great peace have they which love thy law: and nothing shall offend them."
Psalm 119:165 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Time

Joe was a wise man, for he had a plan.
He got up early and with prayer began.
He asked the Lord to guide him each day
In how to use time, lest it all slip away.

Then he worked hard and he got much done
And he always finished what he had begun
His life was good, and he moved ahead.
He had enough clothes and shelter and bread.

Then there was Jim, who didn't like work.
He "loafed" a lot, and work he would shirk.
He liked TV and went very slow
Which just wasn't good, for it brought him woe.

He had no money, his house was a mess.
Because he was lazy, he also had stress.
He made up excuse and he wasted his time.
Then he was not happy and had not a dime.

Time is a gift, and we all have the same.
If we waste it, we only have ourselves to blame.
Opportunity knocks on our door every day.
If we choose to use it..... it won't slip away.

"The slothful man does not roast what he took in hunting,
but diligence is man's precious possession."
Proverbs 12:27 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thank You, Mr. Soldier

Thank you, Mr. Soldier,
Whether past or present tense,
For guarding our great country,
For standing in defense.

Thank you, Sir, for bravely serving
In our freedom's cause.
We thank our God each day for you
And give you much applause!!!

In times of danger and of peril
With courage you stood strong.
We owe enormous debt to you
And will remember long.....

How you have given of your life
So we may safely dwell.
We salute each one of you.
You've served our country well!


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Lovely Crown

Maybe today you can't see the sun
And don't see results from all you have done.
On days you "can't win", and it gets you down,
Don't let this depress you and cause you to frown.

There always will be a brighter day coming,
When you will feel good and your heart will be humming.
Tomorrow has promise to be a great day,
So chase all your burdens and worries away!

Let laughter and merriment brighten your day.
Wear them as flowers in a colorful lei.
Find today's promise... a lovely jeweled crown...
And wear it with joy... then you won't feel down.

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Harmony

We do not know or understand
The beauty of a heav'nly choir...
How harmonies from God Himself
Our weary spirits can inspire.

Harmony is God's own gift,
And melody is from His hand,
But man has added his own "touch"
And changed all that which God had planned.

God has spoken to "be still",
But man is given to want noise.
A simple song is better far
Than all the sounds which man employs.

There is no sweeter sound on earth
Than voices singing pretty songs.
Surely this must bless our God,
For harmony to Him belongs.

"I will sing a new song unto thee, O God: upon a psaltery and an instrument of ten strings will I sing praises unto thee."
Psalm 144:9 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Computer Fun

My computer needs help...
Sometimes it gets stuck.
I need help to fix it...
Or maybe need luck!

It thinks for itself
And does some strange things.
When it won't work,
Frustration it brings!

I did not think
I needed to get one,
But then when I did
I found it was fun...

Until it "goofed up"...
(It just can't be me).
And the answer I need
I can't seem to see.

How did I live
Without one of these....
This funny machine
Which I can't seem to please?

And what did I DO
Before I had this.
It sure keeps me busy...
...Sheer bliss...

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Weed-Free Life

It sure isn't good to let weeds have their way.
You can't see their roots to know where they'll go.
They take up good space and crowd out good plants.
Then soon they will blossom and more seeds will sow.

We may pull them out and think they are gone,
But where are the roots which have spread out and grown?
They remain covered and may bring surprise
When they sprout up again in places unknown.

"Weeds" in our lives should be unwelcome guests,
For they will grow strong and "deplete" our soil.
The roots which are hidden are really a nuisance.
If they're not removed, our lives they will spoil.

"Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."
Psalm 139:23-24 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Interesting Road

The Lord takes us over some interesting roads
And leads us to carry some "colorful" loads.
We may not know what He has in mind
Or what precious treasure He'll cause us to find.

He leads through valleys and up some steep hills.
Some paths are challenges, in others are thrills.
He teaches us balance and shapes us with care
And shows us His ways as we seek Him in prayer.

Sometimes we wonder why He "takes so long",
But often the "waiting" is what makes us strong.
As we trust in Him our faith is increased,
And then through our lives His power is released.

God makes each life to be quite unique.
When we follow Him, He then will speak
And use us to further His Kingdom on earth.
There is no calling which has greater worth.

"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths."
Psalm 25:4 KJV

"The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me....."
Psalm 138:8 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Angel's Song

Oh, that I might sometime feel
The gentle brush of angel wings
And hear them sing or play upon
Their heavenly instruments of strings...

With harp and lute and mandolin,
Their voices wafting to and fro,
With heaven's harmonies and song,
Drifting down on those below...

Myriad voices praising God
Resounding throughout heaven's sphere,
Echoing their glorious chorus
And blessing many far and near.

In the stillness of the night
I long to hear the angels sing,
Just to know a touch of heaven
And hear them praise our glorious King.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Healing Touch

Peace and healing be to you,
Gently falling as the dew,
Coming as the light of morn
Your life and body to adorn,

Sweetly soothing all your pain.
(May it's presence quickly wane).
May strength and vigor be your pleasure
And each new day be as treasure.

May your healing be complete.
May you feel God's presence sweet,
Lingering with you day by day
As a fragrant, prized bouquet.

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases, who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:2-3 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Living Word

As I was sitting and thinking abut the Word of God and how it works in our lives, my furnace came on. Suddenly I could feel the warm air coming from the floor vent and filling the room as the furnace fan was circulating the heat through my house. Now normally I would pay no attention to this, but God called it to my attention because He wanted to show me something.....

We function best when the Word of God circulates FREELY in our lives and in our thought patterns. As I began to ponder this I had to ask myself, "How many hindrances (or closed doors) are there in my life or in my thoughts which can PREVENT circulation of the Word? (If you clamp off the blood supply to any part of the body, that part will not function well). This was really something to think about.

The areas which seem the most likely are:
Time constraints and busyness..... just simply getting too busy to read the Word, or reading the Word and then not taking time to meditate on it and consider how to implement it into my living patterns every day.

Cluttered thinking patterns (like a log jam). My mind is filled with many different things in any given day.

Wrong or useless thinking patterns..... these are like "closed doors" and create blockages to circulation.

Failure to stay in the Word..... causing weakened circulation, and therefore a weakened life.

The Word of God is my lifeline. If I determine to make it operative in my life, it will identify every blockage and hindrance I have. It will locate hidden spots and "root out" difficult areas. His Word is alive and wonderful, and will continually bring new life.

And so I am choosing to just take times during my day to repeat Scriptures which I have memorized over time, and to deliberately just sit and meditate for a moment or two. I want the Word to cleanse and refresh my thinking..... to continually circulate within me. The more I do this, the more I feel the presence of the Lord around me. What blessed communion.....

"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
Hebrews 4:12 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In The Shadow Of The Cross

When your feet are tired and weary
And each step is full of pain,
And all the efforts that you've made
Just seem to be in vain...

Bring your burdens to the cross
And simply leave them there.
For Jesus will not give you
Any weight you cannot bear.

In the shadow of the cross
Is sweet refreshing for your soul.
The newness of the life He gives
Will heal and make you whole.

He will give you new beginning
To redeem your pain and loss.
Enter into peace and rest
In the shadow of the cross.

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me: for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

This Very Day

Some memories make us shudder,
And our fears will make us "quake"...
The past and future squeeze right in
Our present joy to take.

It's good to focus on each day
And live it "to the max"!
We can't change what is behind us
Or have anxiety attacks.

God will grace each day for us
With love and joy and peace.
As we choose to live for Him
Our lives will have new "lease".

His purpose is sufficient
To fulfill our deepest dreams.
He will bring us balance
And will keep us from "extremes".

There is promise in THIS day
And "treasure" to be found.
It may be something very simple,
But with blessing will abound.

"This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 KJV

© 2007 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

A New Plan

When life is whirling all about you
And upsets come at every turn,
God will be your point of strength
And bring the peace for which you yearn.

He will guide you through the storm
And give you answers for each day.
He will fill you with His joy
And wash your tensions all away.

May He cover and direct you,
Heal your ills and lift your load.
May He carry all your burdens
And direct you down a bright, new road.

"For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
Psalm 91:11 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Stitch In Time (Saves Nine)

My grandson was given a school uniform sweatshirt which was used, and it needed mending badly. The knit cuffs were badly frayed and damaged. My son brought it to me for mending in hopes that it could be salvaged one more time... to save buying another new one. This was the hardest mending challenge I had ever tackled. The cuffs looked as though they had gone through a lawn mower.

The side seams of the cuffs were separated, so I stitched those. Then I re-attached the cuffs to the sleeves where those seams were coming apart, binding the seam on the inside with many, small stitches. There were many small "runs" in one cuff, so I whipped the edges of each run together, trying to catch in each stitch of the knit so it wouldn't ravel again. Now I still had the frayed edges of the cuffs to fix, so I turned the edges inward and whipped the edges together. Then I proceeded to fix holes under the arms where the seams had split. When I got done the shirt was presentable and wearable again.

There was a real lesson in this sweatshirt. In our spiritual lives, when we don't do good maintenance, our lives will become tattered and worn. If the situation drags on too long there will be some loss. (After mending the edges of the cuffs by turning them inward, they were no longer as wide.)

There may be scars (where I mended the "runs" you could see the mending a little bit); or separation (seams were opening up); or, evidence of wear and tear (the shirt didn't look as nice as it could have, had it had care). Recognition of good values had been lost (didn't care enough about the shirt to mend it properly).

When we turn to God for "repairs" (sometimes a little late), out of His great love He will do everything in His power to heal our lives. He will tenderly and gently mend our situations. Even as I needed to "catch" every little stitch of the ravelled cuff with my needle to prevent further ravelling, God will diligently mend every aspect of our lives.

He is our Healer, and He is able to make new.....

"Who his own self bare our sins in his own body, on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed."
I Peter 2:24 KJV

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him, and with his stripes we are healed."
Isaiah 53:5 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Treasured Values

We should not discard the past
In favor of the "new".
That which stood the test of time
We should savor and review.

Let us weave our long-taught truths
Into a pattern for today.
Let us gather up this beauty,
Lest "progress" rob it all away.

Let us always reverence
The wisdom of the past,
And keep a strong foundation
In God's tenets... which will last.

"For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding. He layeth up sound wisdom for the righteous: he is a buckler to them that walk uprightly. He keepeth the paths of judgment, and preserveth the way of his saints."
Proverbs 2:6-8 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

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

Spring Flowers

My garden needs help as the flowers start to show,
But what are these weeds which vigorously grow?
I did not plant them, but somehow they're there,
Looking for space in my flower bed to share.

So I dig and I weed to pull them all out
'Cause my flowers need room to grow and to sprout.
When I've finished my work and my flower bed is done,
I just don't want weeds..... not even one!

Then the slugs and the bugs and the grubworms and ants
Try to come "lunch" on my flowers and plants!
Whenever I see hungry pests such as they,
I chase them away with my dust and my spray!

I feed and I water to make my plants grow.
If I am faithful, they'll make quite a "show".
Each little plant I carefully groom,
'Cause I love my plants..... I see God in each bloom.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Child's Small Hand

The warmth and the trust
In a child's small hand
Are much to be honored
To help him to stand.

For he reaches up
To the parent or friend
Who offers a hand
With assurance to lend.

He will then follow
And do what he sees,
For he's eager to learn
And anxious to please.

Kind nurture and molding
Of each little child
Will cause him to blossom,
To be gentle and mild.

"Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward."
Psalm 127:3 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Currents

A Call To Prayer

There are "currents" in the land which are creating an "undertow". An undertow in the ocean cannot be seen, but it is dangerous because it can be life-threatening... it can pull one under the water. "Undercurrents" erode foundations and undermine strength. Though unseen, they have the power to destroy and cause collapse.

There are "cross-currents", which interrupt and distract good purpose and delay timing. Often they hinder and scatter and confuse issues... wasting time and causing purpose to sometimes disintegrate.

The power of God is an "electrical" current... with the power to light up darkness, the power to identify undertow and the power to short-circuit cross-currents. This power will be loosed throughout the land by prayer, and it will counter ANY current which is trying to gain presence or credibility, seen or unseen.

"The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty....."
Zephaniah 3:17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Principle

The "principle of the thing"
Is an oft-repeated phrase
Which seeks to re-affirm the truth
And Godly standards raise.

Integrity and goodness are
The models of it's cause.
Conscience and a moral sense
Will pinpoint any flaws.

It displays a "steady strength",
Unwavering and pure,
The solid rock of righteousness,
A guideline which is sure.

"Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee."
Psalm 25:21 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Wonder Of Your Love

Oh, the wonder of Your love,
The wonder of Your grace...
That You would care for such as me,
That You would give me place...

When I could only offer You
A sin-filled, broken soul.
And yet You cared so much for me
You touched and made me whole.

You had no need for such as me
But did not pass me by.
You lifted me from pain and woe,
You heard my heart's deep cry.

You gave me hope and wiped my tears.
In You I have deep peace.
Through Your grace and wondrous love
From my sin I have release.

"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
II Corinthians 5:17 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Dog With Wings

We had a dog
Which you couldn't keep in.
The battle to "fence" him
You just couldn't win.

We put up a fence
Which we thought would work,
But he would get out
And our patience would irk.

He slipped through the space
Which was under the gate.
We added a board there
His fun to "deflate".

Then he dug a hole
And went under the fence.
We sank wire and bricks there,
To foil his keen sense.

When we were not looking
He still would get out.
When we thought he was home
He was "out and about".

It took a long time
Before he got caught.
His secret was NOT
What any of us thought.

We lived on a lot
Which was seventy feet wide,
With a hedge clear across,
Behind which he'd hide.

He ran the yard's width
Behind the old hedge.
He would start out
At the yard's far edge.

To get up some speed
He would run fast and hard,
Climb the fence and jump over
Into the next yard.

Our six-foot tall fence
Did not stop him at all.
He had learned how to climb
Even though he was small.

We used to think
That our dog must have wings.
But his secret was this...
In his back legs were springs!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Humility Speaks

One wiith humility has accurate vision,
Has no built-in barriers and sees with precision.
Humility rests and will quietly speak,
Won't rush in too soon, and is gentle and meek.

It will not contend for it's own rights or way
But rejoices in peace and is birthed as we pray.
It never will injure or cause undue pain
But will tend to build bridges and healing ordain.

What blessed example of Christ's love in action...
What blessed experience and deep satisfaction...

"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?"
Micah 6:8 KJV

"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."
James 4:10 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Beacon Of Light

In someone's life you may be a beacon,
The sole ray of light which they can see,
The only thread of life and hope
To which they cling precariously.

You may be the pillar of strength
Which lends them courage to go on.
Your strength and light will buoy them up
When they are feeling lost and wan.

If some days you ponder
Whether what you do has worth,
That might be the very day
On which your life gave birth...

To help a crushed and hurting soul
Find strength in which to stand
And in a very desperate time
To not let go God's hand.

Never question anything
That God would have you do.
You may be the chosen one
Whom He is working through.

"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Matthew 5:14-16 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

100 Years Strong

In memory of my mother, Elsie Franzel
May 4, 1906 to February 11, 2007


One hundred years strong,
Through thick and through thin,
She marched right on
A century to win!

She did what was right
And worked very hard.
She always helped others
Without self-regard.

She raised many kids
And gave them good care.
As a mom she earned crowns
Which she proudly can wear.

She bore many burdens
And walked a long road,
But never did shirk
From carrying her load.

She bravely went forth
And conquered her woes.
No matter the battle
She always arose...

With courage and wisdom,
Perseverance and wit.
This is a lady
Who really has grit!!!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Seasons Of Testing

When things are falling down around us
We shouldn't just pick up and leave.
We will need creative thinking
A semblance of order to retrieve.

We go through seasons which are hard
And wish that things were not that way.
If we're wise we will not run
But choose to "tough it out" and stay.

For in these times we're shaped and pruned
And taught to have a new perspective.
We will find new balance
As we pray and are receptive.

Victory comes through diligence,
And growth through trial and error.
Peace and strength and joy will come
As we reach up in prayer.


"I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away; and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit."
John 15:1-2 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Little Man

When he started his week
He carried a small bag.
Each day it got heavier,
And he started to "drag".

It would be hard
To get through the week.
With this heavy load,
The prospect was bleak.

A Friend came beside him
And picked up his load,
Then carried it for him
As together they strode.

"Why did you do this?"
The little man pled.
"Because I have loved you,"
Is what the Friend said.

"When the weight of the load
Is too much to bear,
I'll carry it for you,
For I'm always there."

"But I do not know you
And cannot give pay,
And yet you'll come with me
As I go my way?"

The Friend looked upon him
With mercy and grace.
The man had ne'er seen
Such love in a face.

His burden was lifted
And he could go on.
The Friend simply said,
"Now do as I've done"...

His life was changed
And healed on that day.
He had met Jesus,
The Light and the Way."

"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Growth

Growth happens when we aren't aware,
Through God's faithfulness and care,
When we struggle or make error
And when we seek Him with our prayer.

Growth may happen as we "wait"
And as we trust Him for our "fate".
Growth will happen when we fail
Or do not know what makes us ail.

Stumbling blocks and hurdles steep
May cause us to bow down and weep.
We may not know or understand
Events which come or make demand.

In each day we have the chance
To thank our God for circumstance.
As we praise Him He will do
A work within us which is new.

He'll give wisdom over time.
Each "hill" we face He'll help us climb.
He will help us understand
If we trust and take His hand.

If we WANT to, we will grow.
And though the progress may seem slow,
God is faithful to abide.
He'll always be there by our side.

"Being confident of this very trhing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."
Philippians 1:6 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Gift Of Laughter

Laughter is a healing balm
To counter stress and sponsor calm.
It brings release from tension's grip
And brightens up relationship.

It helps the day to not "just drag"
And helps your spirit not to sag.
It's good to laugh and have some fun,
For soon you'll find your work is done!

It will offset doom and gloom
And make your countenance to bloom.
Laughter is a precious gift...
To give your heart a happy lift.

"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine....."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Instant In Season

How blessed the man who is "instant in season",
Who is strong in his faith and can give you good reason
Why he is a follower of Jesus as Lord
And tell you about heaven's future reward.

How blessed the man who will pray when you call,
Who "hears" your heart cry and will not let you fall,
Who has the compassion to stand by your side,
Who is gentle in spirit, and in prayer will abide.

How blessed the man who will bring joy to others,
Who goes about doing good deeds for his brothers,
Whose motto is "serving all" those he will meet,
Whose life is like Jesus... in all ways complete.

"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear....."
I Peter 3:15 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

City Kids - Learning To Farm

My dad really enjoyed farming, and he tilled up a large field so that we could plant vegetables and berries. Mom loved to can vegetables and fruit, so this idea appealed to her too.

When the field was ready, Dad went into town and bought two hundred strawberry plants. He left instructions for my brothers to work on planting the berry plants when they came home from school, which they did.

The next day I remember my dad saying to my brothers, "I thought I told you to plant those strawberry plants." They answered him, "We did."

They had done their job, but they had planted the berries the way you would plant potatoes. They buried them in the ground!!! The next day my dad was out there trying to carefully dig up the strawberry plants and plant them correctly. What a job! But he was successful. We did have strawberries to eat.

Little by little we became "farm" kids, but not without a few laughs during our learning time.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Finding God's Purpose

What is God doing in my life today?
I want to know just what He would say...
I'm trying, and working, His will to fulfill,
But everyday tasks are a tedious "drill".

If what I'm doing is all in His plan,
Then I can take joy in what He began.
I don't want to miss what He has prepared.
From useless endeavors I want to be spared.

His overview and His vision for me
Will cause me to grow... this is the key.
Finding His purpose brings constant delight.
In this I can "rest", for He is my light.

"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4-6 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Re-Charged Battery

When our children were in grade school both of them needed orthodontic work on their teeth. So we made many trips to the orthodontist's office over time. His office was in an area which required driving up a long, steep hill. I never liked that hill from the first time I drove on it.

One summer day (a very hot day) I was coming down this hill and my battery went dead. Since I had power steering and power-assist brakes, I had trouble steering and also lost some of my braking ability. I started praying really hard. I truly needed God's intervention in this situation, and I could feel Him holding the car back. When I got to the bottom I needed to get off of that street because there wasn't any place to pull over. After a few blocks I turned onto a side street and coasted to a stop. Making the turn was difficult without my power steering to help me.

There we sat... probably twelve miles away from home. I tried to re-start the car but heard no sound. It was totally dead. Again we started to pray. I tried the starter one last time, and it started! I sat there a minute to see if it would keep running... and it did. This had to be the hand of God helping us.

We drove all the way back home and went straight to the service station by our house. I asked the man there to re-charge the battery, and we then walked home. He called me a short time later and said, "Your battery is totally gone. There is nothing left in it." We had come all the way back home on a dead battery!

As I look back on that day I praise God for His miracle of safety for me and my two children. Truly, His angels were all around us in that situation!


"For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways."
Psalm 91:11 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

You Are Our Strength

Let our foundations be rebuilt in You.
Let us recover the good and the true.
Help us discern in which way we've made error
And humbly return to a framework of prayer.

Lord, help us reset our sights and our goals,
Lest our present direction take sorrowful tolls.
Forgive us for trying to "do it OUR way"
And not letting You have adequate "say".

We need Your help in this time of great stress
As we undertake the need to address
The challenges caused by our error and pride.
Save us, O God, from evil's ill tide.

Heal our hearts from selfish ambition,
That we might take on a Godly position.
You are our strength and power and might
To help us stand strong for that which is right!

"God is our strength, a very present help in trouble."
Psalm 46:1 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Answer Today

If you carry scars
And have been betrayed,
The price for your pain
Has already been paid.

The wounds which you suffered
Were borne on the cross
So you might be healed
from your pain and your loss.

God's great compassion
For you and for me
Moved Him to offer
His Son on the tree.

The blood that was shed
Brought redemption from sin
And healing from illness
Or wounding within.

The cross offers help
For your problems today
As a sweet healing balm...
God's love to convey.

How great is our God,
Who opened His heart,
His great lovingkindness
And joy to impart.

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits: who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's."
Psalm 103:2-5 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Ice Cream Sundae

So many flavors of ice cream... yum-yum!
And so many toppings and nuts to choose from!
Chocolate and cherry and pineapple too...
And maybe some berries... our sweet tooth to woo.

When all is combined, it still isn't done
Until we add whipped cream... this makes it "A-1"!
E'en though we chose what is likely too much,
The whipped cream is just the right finishing touch.

In life we're creative in all that we do,
But we still need Jesus' perspective and view.
We put together what may seem quite nice,
But without His "covering" we may pay a price.

He is the "whipped cream"... the ultimate best!
He is Who makes all we do to be blessed.
When we include Him in all that we do
Then we may savor His blessings anew.

"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."
Proverbs 3:5 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Responding In Love

When "feathers get ruffled" and "fur starts to fly",
When things have gone wrong and tension is high,
Don't let emotion have rule in your day,
For "reaction" will build and add fuel to the fray.

Be slow to anger and be slow to speak.
It's best to be quiet, lest havoc you wreak.
A well-thought-out answer will soothe and correct,
Will bring understanding and anger deflect.

Diplomacy, measured with love and good will,
Will overcome strife with kindness and skill.
Responding in love will console and bring healing...
A wonderful way to establish good feeling.

"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger."
Proverbs 15:1 KJV

"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath: for the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God."
James 1:19-20 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Three Nails

My mother, when she was nearing 70, attended a church picnic and, while there, entered a competition...

The men were having a competition to see how fast they could drive three 16-penny nails into a log. Mom grabbed a hammer and three nails, and with three hits on each one drove those nails into the log while the men were standing there with their mouths open. She was the only one who could drive the nails in without bending them.

While this is a humorous picture, what a picture it is! She hit the nails squarely on the head. She took aim at the target and did not miss the mark. She was strong and would do quickly what others might hesitate to do.

It speaks profoundly of who she was and how she lived her life. In any given situation her discernment enabled her to make an accurate evaluation and then do what was neceswsary to be done. She moved quickly, and her actions were always positive and correct.

This was a lady who bravely tackled many different challenges in her long life, conquered many mountains and who wasn't afraid of trying something new..... including pounding nails into a log.

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Faithful Footsteps

In tribute to

Herb & Thelma Read

Faithful footsteps, following You,
True soldiers of the cross...
Those who suffer, yet march on,
And don't consider loss.

These are giants of the faith,
Unsung heroes in their day,
Who give their lives in serving You,
Who don't give up but always pray...

Whose health is sometimes frail and weak,
Whose times are truly in Your hand,
But they are Yours and You are theirs,
And in YOUR strength they stand.

What glorious tribute is a life
Which shines so brightly for Your cause,
Which speaks profoundly of Your love...
All heav'n will bring applause!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Little Boy's Dilemma

I don't like chores... I want to play!
I wish the work would go away!
It should wait until I'm through
With all the things I WANT to do.

But when I've played with car and truck
And then still have my chores... Oh, yuck!
They're worse to do whan I am tired.
Then I'm REALLY not inspired!

Work is simply not much fun.
I'd rather draw or play or run.
I should learn to not make messes.
Then I won't have these distresses.

Being neat is quite a job,
And "cleaning up" my time will rob.
(I should give away some stuff.
It seems I have more than enough.)

I will put my things away,
For I'm learning every day...
If I hurry and get done,
I'll have more time to just have fun!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

True Riches

Knowing Jesus...
Abiding in the Spirit...
Having the joy of the Lord...

The pleasure of giving... to God and to others...
The privilege of serving...

Relationships built on the Word and tempered by love...
Rich fellowship with other saints...
True understanding of the heart by another...
A sense of family... warmth... found in the Body of Christ...

A simple life style... found in Him... (Knowing what is important)
Peace which passes all understanding......

Hearing His voice and following His direction...
Worshipping Him...
Being thankful always...



© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Close Call

As I was driving on the freeway a vehicle in the lane to my right started to move into my lane, almost as though I weren't there. He didn't look first to see if there was anyone there. I thought he was going to hit me, but luckily he saw his error just in time. Then he moved forward and moved into my lane just in front of me, which was okay. But then a moment or two later I saw him move left again... this time right in front of a large transport truck with a long trailer. The truck was already following the vehicle in front of him much too closely, but this fellow squeezed his car into that small space in between. He didn't seem to have any sense that he might be causing problems for others or that he might be putting himself or others in danger.

As I watched him it struck me that this is the way some people go through life. As we live, the way we "move" will have impact on those around us. If we are not "in tune" with others, it is possible that we may bring pain to someone, we may endanger another or we may cause all kinds of problems for others as they try to adjust to our lack of sensitivity.

Everything we do has effect on someone around us, whether we think so or not. Someone we may not even know or be aware of may be watching our actions every day. We do not know what impression our lives may have on others. Surely we have responsibility to be aware of those around us and to live in such a way that our actions do not harm or hurt anyone.



© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Making Change

When I get ready to make change
There are some things I want to keep.
And so I sort through all I have,
And still I seem to have "a heap".

I think I've pared down what I need
To move into new "territory",
But when I get there I discover
This was just "preparatory".

When Jesus leads me in His path,
More and more I start to "see".
He will give me new perspective
And help me truly to be free.

Some of that which I have kept
Does not have value (as I thought).
As He changes who I am
Some things have value, some have nought.

My thoughts and actions every day
Are very much a part of this.
Excess "baggage" from the past
Could cause my life to go amiss.

Jesus simplifies my path
And shows me what I need to do.
He brings refreshing to my life
And helps me keep a balanced view.

"But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord."
II Corinthians 3:18 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Look On The Bright Side

I've come to a conclusion...
If there is confusion
Then look on the bright side.
Let laughter abide.

Smiles relieve tension
And soften dissension.
Good rapport brings release
And ushers in peace.

A positive outlook
Is like a good book,
Which brings you delight
And makes you feel bright.

Laughter will give you
A much improved view,
Will change your approach
And carry you through.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Honesty

Honesty is "black-and-white".
It does not play around with "grey".
It sees with perfect clarity
And will not waver, bend or sway.

It speaks the truth and will not lie,
It stands for what it knows is right.
It doesn't have to bow it's head,
Back away or feel uptight.

It marches on and doesn't change.
It waves it's banner very high.
It won't have wrinkle, spot or stain
But purity you can't deny.

"These are the things that ye shall do; speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates..."
Zechariah 8:16 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Flying Blind ???

We never would drive with our eyes tightly shut
Nor walk without care, lest we step in a rut,
Ignoring the dangers which might lie in wait,
Not giving much thought to what might be our fate.

We would not try to make a long trip
Without proper planning and having a "grip",
For we might not reach our true destination.
When we failed we wouldn't have good explanation.

And yet every day we may make this error
Of moving about without thought, without prayer.
For every life God will chart a strong course.
His direction is sure, and He will be our Source.

And then we wonder why things have gone wrong,
Or we fuss and we fret when we are not strong.
We only need ask and then follow His lead
To find our right path and how to proceed.

"Teach me thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path....."
Psalm 27:11 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Soft-Fallen Rain

When standing alone in a difficult place,
Needing support and a measure of grace,
An expression of love from a gentle, kind hand
Is as soft-fallen rain on a dry, weary land...

For experience of living can take a harsh toll,
Can wear down and weary the most faithful soul.
But the burden is softened and made to feel light
When friends gather round and in prayer will unite.

How welcome a smile or a telephone call,
A hug or a flower... however small.
Showing concern for that one who's alone
Is a much greater gift than will ever be known.


"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity."
Proverbs 17:17 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Why Parents Get Grey

When our children were little I always dreaded to see them get hurt. When they would come screaming and crying I was always apprehensive until I saw the extent of the "injury", which usually wasn't much. But what was worse then this was when we would hear a "thump" or a "bang" and then wouldn't hear them cry or call out, suggesting that perhaps they were a little more seriously hurt or maybe even knocked out.

Our son had a bicycle with training wheels. After quite some time he found his sense of balance and we could then remove the training wheels. He was really excited, so he decided to ride around the block with his sister... with both of us calling after him, "Be careful".

Off he went, lickity-split, down around the corner... with a whole lot more confidence than skill at that point. A few seconds later we heard a crash... the scraping of metal on cement. But that's all we heard... no crying, no screaming. Since we lived only one block away from a very busy street, it was hard not to imagine the worst. We "raced" down to the corner as fast as we could run, only to find him standing next to his bicycle, which was laying on the cement. When we asked him what happened, he answered, "I had to scratch my back!"

He couldn't ride and do that too, so he just jumped off the bike. What a hilarious picture! We were truly glad he wasn't hurt, but we aged about ten years!


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Echoes

That which we live and that which we speak
Will be echoed in time in a way that's unique.
The sound of one voice will be heard in another,
And our words will "return" through a sister or brother.

For we leave a trail as we live day-to-day
Which others will walk on as they find their way.
The "sounds" of our lives echo back o'er and o'er,
For they are not lost, but in others find "store".

If we watch and listen we'll hear a reply
In far-reaching echoes we cannot deny.
Echoes reverberate more than we know,
Extending our lives as they move to and fro...


"A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!"
Proverbs 15:23 KJV

"A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children's children....."
Proverbs 13:22 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Lamb Of God

The Lamb of God -
so precious He
Who died for you and
died for me.

This flawless Lamb -
Who cared so much
And gave His life
For sinners and such.

He saw our plight and
saw our need
As on the cross His
side did bleed.

The blood that flowed
was shed in pain,
But given in love to
be our gain.

So great His love for
you and me,
His sacrifice upon
the tree.

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

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Spotless Lamb

Jesus was the spotless Lamb,
Pure and holy, white as snow,
The sacrifice of greatest worth,
The greatest love we'll ever know.

This One Who reached out to all men
And walked in great humility
Became the Lamb Who bore our sin...
The hope for all humanity.

We cannot fathom such a love
Nor comprehend His glorious ways,
But worship Him with all our heart
And serve Him all our days.

Jesus was the spotless Lamb,
Pure and holy, white as snow,
The sacrifice of greatest worth,
The greatest love we'll ever know.


"We were not redeemed with corruptible things.....
but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a
lamb without blemish and without spot."
I Peter 1:18a & 19 NKJ

© 2005 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

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

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

Consider His Love

A Song

Consider the love of Jesus, our Lord.
Consider the love which has been outpoured.
It reaches the valleys and the uttermost place.
How great is His mercy and rich is His grace.

No other one can touch us like He.
No other one shall ever be worthy.
He gave His life for you and for me.
He came to save us and set us free.

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Pride

When pride enters in, contention will rule.
It causes one's speech to be that of a fool.
How troubled the waters where this sin abounds.
It spoils relationships and problems compounds.

It always is blind and will seek it's own way.
It only sees self, causing pain and dismay
To all whom it touches. It's unbending form
Does not choose humility as it's daily norm.

Pride is a snare... a sorrowful sin
Which binds and destroys God's Spirit within.
If we are willing this sin to displace,
God will then fill us with mercy and grace.

"Only by pride cometh contention: but with the well advised is wisdom."
Proverbs 13:10 KJV

"Pride goeth before destruction, and an haughty spirit before a fall."
Proverbs 16:18 KJV

"A man's pride shall bring him low: but honour shall uphold the humble in spirit."
Proverbs 29:23 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

His Gift From The Cross

A Song

Have you considered Jesus' gift from the cross?
Have you thought about a love so great?
Have you pondered the depth of His caring
To redeem us from sin's heavy weight?

Chorus
Because He loved us, because He loved us
He gave His life on the cross.
He died to save us, He died to save us.
He died to rescue the lost.

Have you met Jesus? Have you met Jesus?
He died for you on the tree.
Do you love Jesus? Do you love Jesus?
He died to set you free.



© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Light For Another

Someone somewhere may be watching
Everything we do each day.
All our actions are important.....
Everything we do or say.

Will we set a good example?
Will our words be full of grace?
For someone out there may be struggling,
Needing hope each day to face.

They may look at us and think.
"They have answers which I need.
They know something which I don't
Which is helping them succeed."

If our lives and homes have order
And our actions kindly speak,
We may be encouragement
For some poor soul whose life is bleak.

"Walk in wisdom toward those who are outside, redeeming the time. Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."
Colossians 4:5-6 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Timing

Don't try to fix what isn't broken.
Leave uninvited words unspoken.
Don't "rush in" without a thought
Or just assume more than you ought...

For fools rush in where angels won't.
Wisdom simply says... "Just don't".
Others need their very own "space",
And it is best we hold our place.

If we watch and wait, we'll see
Whether God would have us be
An instrument of love or hope
To help another pray or cope.

But He may choose to use another
To help that sister or that brother.
He will save us many an error
If patiently we'll wait in prayer.

"Wisdom resteth in the heart of him that hath understanding: but that which is in the midst of fools is made known."
Proverbs 14:33 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Each Special Day

Savor each day.

Treat it as a friend.
See it as an opportunity.

Use it with joy.
Fill it's space with good things.
Include love and warmth and laughter.

Use it wisely.
Make it special in some way.

Be grateful for the lovingkindness
Of a wonderful and awesome God.

"This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it."
Psalm 118:24 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Stuck In Place

I have always been grateful for the unique way the Holy Spirit leads in any given situation.....

In years past I played the piano in a large church. In this setting there was a worship leader, a pianist and an organist. The worship leader would "move" as she was led by the Spirit, and we followed along on the instruments.

On one Sunday morning we had a very well-known guest speaker. He preached a powerful sermon and, at the end, he broke into singing the old hymn, "On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand....."

As was the norm at this point, whenever a leader would start singing, the organist and I would move back to the instruments and start to play along. I started to move, but my feet were "stuck" in place. I tried again to step forward, but my feet were literally "planted". A moment later I heard the Holy Spirit say, "He's (the speaker) in the key of F sharp, and you won't be able to play it strongly enough." The crowd had been uplifted by the morning's message, and they were singing this old hymn with much enthusiasm.

As the service closed I stepped over to the piano to "check out" what key we had been singing in. And we were indeed in the key of F sharp. When we got home from church I sat down at the piano and tried to play the hymn in that key... and couldn't. I stumbled badly.

I was so-o-o grateful the Holy Spirit stopped me that day. My feet felt as though my shoes had been glued to the floor!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

City Kids

When I was a little girl (five years old) my parents bought a farm, and they then proceeded to buy some animals and chickens. Dad bought a cow so that we would have milk, and we named her "Betsy".

Well, Betsy had a calf. As it was evident that she was getting close to having her calf, my dad told my brothers to check out the situation when they came home from school each day. (Two of my brothers were in high school and one was in grade school). If she didn't have her calf near our barn, Dad at least wanted my brothers to find out where she was before it got dark.

As it happened, Betsy had her calf way out in a pasture area which was not close to our barn. My brothers found her with the calf and they decided that they needed to bring the calf home. At this point it was very obvious that we were just a bunch of "city kids". If cows could speak, I think Betsy would have said, "Look, I've had this calf all by myself and I can certainly see that she gets home without YOUR help."

My brothers decided that if they took the wheelbarrow out there they could put the calf in and bring it home that way. Well, Betsy did NOT think that was a great idea. She was reallly fussing. Picking the calf up was not all that easy, and keeping it in the wheelbarrow was a very humorous scene. The calf would try to stand up and the wheelbarrow would tip first to one side and then to the other, with my brothers trying to keep the calf from falling out. Betsy was following along and just making no end of fuss.

We didn't get very far down the path before my brothers decided that this was not going to work. So they helped the calf out of the wheelbarrow, .. a very clumsy operation... with the calf fighting them all the way. Now this is the best part... the calf stood there for a moment or two, rather sprawl-legged, and then proceeded to follow Betsy the rest of the way home, walking on it's own... somewhat unsteadily, but nevertheless on it's own.

Being on the farm was great fun, but we had much to learn!

© 2007 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

My Hiding Place

Lord, You are my hiding place,
Where I may come to rest,
Where I find peace and comfort
When I'm weary and hard-pressed.

You are joy and happiness
In the midst of pain,
An oasis of refreshing...
To offset daily "drain".

You bring balance and perspective
Which I sorely need,
Guiding me through circumstance
When I'm not "up to speed".

In Your presence I'm renewed.
My time with You is sweet.
And then I'm able to go on...
By Your strength I am complete.


"Thou art my hiding place; thou shalt preserve me from trouble; thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance."
Psalm 32:7 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Eternal Treasure

Earthly goods have no real worth...
To heav'nly life cannot give birth.
Heaven's treasure is priceless gain...
The highest prize we can attain.

All we have will pale and dim
As we see Christ and worship Him.
What joy will come within the soul
As we shall reach our heavenly goal.

No more tears and no more strife,
Which often touch our present life,
But fellowship before the throne
With Christ and those who are His own.


"If we suffer, we shall also reign with him....."
II Timothy 2:12 KJV


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Breath Of Spring

The breath of spring is in the air
When all the trees their blossoms wear,
Lining twig and branch and limb,
As pretty as a lovely hymn.

All of nature is excited
(And soon we all will be delighted).
Spring offers us the earth's "good news"
In brilliant shades and softest hues.

She greets us in a lovely way,
Bursting forth in fine display.
For she was "hidden in the cold",
But now her glory we behold!

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Wisdom's Balance

Though men may debate, God's wisdom will stand,
Even though they quibble throughout the land,
Promoting ideas with man-made intent
About which they endlessly fume and lament.

Then TV and radio replay all this "news"
So we may "learn" and maybe will choose
Which side to be on..... should there be a vote.
First we should pray and of wisdom take note.

God's view is clear and will give good perspective.
He'll guide us and help us to be quite selective.
If we trust Him He'll show us when there may be error.
From Him we should learn and of man's views beware.

"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him."
James 1:5 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Worth Of A Life

Recently my mother was in a rehabilitation center for therapy. As I had been visiting there I noticed that some of the "patients" (some long-term, some temporary) didn't have any visitors.

One woman, in particular, caught my attention. Each day she would sit out in the hall in her wheelchair, staring at a little bulletin board and watching the activities of the many workers there or just watching people walk by. She seemed so alone.

One evening she sat holding a Christmas bell made out of colored paper. She asked me if I could read what was written on it because she didn't have her glasses. It had been made and signed by a little girl, and on it was written "God loves you". After I read it to her she held it tightly in her hand, glancing at it often. It was only a paper bell, made by a little girl she didn't know, but it seemed to mean so much to her.

So I began to talk with her. I wanted to learn about her life. She shared that she is 85 years old, is mother of six children, had been married twice and widowed twice. What a full life! And even at age 82 she is as alert mentally as a young person.

As I visited with her, then a few other patients in wheelchairs began to gather and visit also. They all seemed delighted just to have someone to talk to. I have learned that all of them respond to a bright smile or "How are you today?" They want to be acknowledged or "recognized" and to have someone to talk to... to feel someone cares.

If the life of this one woman is any indication, then this rehab center is full of gold and "wealth" of experience. Only God knows the riches stored in the lives of those dear people. And what a need is there, just waiting for someone to fill it.

© 2007 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

Character

Character builds in all that we do.
Act after act it's house it will hew.
It will be learned as we work and we pray
And is built by the choices we make every day.


How sad if we don't follow after it's cause,
For it will be obvious that we have flaws.
The fear of the Lord will give it fine start,
For strong understanding the Lord will impart.


"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom;
A good understanding have all those who do His commandments."
Psalm 111:10 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Sweeter Than Honey

A little bee goes about gathering nectar,
Which he then takes "home" to make something sweet.
This little winged fellow works long and works hard
To gather enough to make honey to eat.

If I could be just like this small honey bee
And gather the sweet things in life that I find,
Surely my life would grow sweeter each day.
If I eat "this" honey then I might be kind...

I'll seek out the "nectar" which makes me more gentle...
God's sweet-scented "flowers" of love and good will.
I'll search for His fragrance which makes me more humble
And draw of this nectar, my spirit to fill.

When the small bee has finished his labor,
He offers "good food" for others to eat.
Lord, make me like him! As I gather Your nectar
Make my life as honey... so very sweet!

"The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple. The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether. More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb."
Psalm 19:7-10 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy St. Patrick's Day

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

Love Expressed

Agape love expresses caring,....
Of one's own self truly sharing,
Always doing what is best.
It's more than "flossy" words expressed.

It will speak the truth in love
And always seek to stay above
The weariness of daily cares.
It finds it's way through heartfelt prayers.

Unselfishly it reaches out,
Bridging over fear and doubt,
Encouraging another one
To fulfill what God's begun.

"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
John 15:13 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

One Ordinary Day

If you have pets, oftentimes what are the most ordinary days can turn into mountains of fun and laughter, or even instant uproar, in just a moment's time.....

One day my mom came over to my home, and while she was there offered to help me with some of my housework. She decided to do some vacuuming, which certainly would have been an ordinary task on most days. She was vacuuming in the dining room and pushed the vacuum cleaner under the dining room table. Because I had a pretty tablecloth on the table which hung down nicely on all sides, she didn't notice whether there was really anything under the table. She was just cleaning.

All of a sudden there was a loud squealing sound..... z-z-z-zzz. It startled her and she couldn't think what to do. I said, "Quick! Turn it off! There is something caught in the belt!" She wasn't used to my vacuum cleaner and couldn't remember where the switch was, so I rushed over there and clicked it off. Then she pulled the cleaner out from under the table to see what was the matter, and here was the dog! She had caught our dog in the vacuum cleaner!

There have only been a few times in my life that I laughed as hard as I did at that moment. Both of us went into hysterics! We laughed until the tears were running down our faces and our sides were aching..... and then still laughed some more.

After several minutes I realized we probably needed to do something about getting the poor mutt extricated from this strange situation. He had been sleeping on his back, so when she pushed the vacuum cleaner under the table she caught the long shaggy hair on his tail. The vacuum pulled part of his tail in, and this long hair was all wound around the roller. He was still on his back, wiggling to try to get up on his feet, which was a funny sight in itself. He couldn't quite figure out what had happened to him.

We couldn't just pull his tail back out, so I had to take the roller off the vacuum, which was no easy task with him still attached to it. Finally, after several minutes of trying to hold him still, I was able to remove the roller and get him untangled. The good part is that he wasn't hurt, but his tail looked even more shaggy than before.

Probably this would not happen again, but we learned to look under the table before we vacuumed, just in case..... I am writing this many years later, but it still brings laughter to me as I remember that funny scene.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Listening Ear

Sometimes the Lord will send up a "red flag",
And we "drag our feet" and some time then will lag
Before we respond to the words that He said,
Forgetting, or doing "our own thing" instead.

Jesus is faithful to guard and to guide
If we will just listen and forego our pride.
We may not know just what He has in mind,
But He'll make our path clear and quite well-defined.

To wait on His voice and to heed His clear call
Often will save us from what could befall.
To follow His lead when we're facing a test
Will save us much grief and prove to be best.

"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me..."
John 10:27 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heaven's Song

A golden strand of worship
Is threaded through my day,
Woven in the fabric
Of all I think or say.

Rejoicing in my heart abounds,
As God brings forth rich melodies.
In my spirit I hear sounds
Of harps and choirs and symphonies.

Sweet music flows throughout my day
And gathers deep within my soul.
All my song shall be to Him.
With joy His Name I will extol.

This joy that flows from God above...
What sweet expression of His love.


"He has put a new song in my mouth - praise to our God."
Psalm 40:3a NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Message for Amarica

You cannot erase from sight
All that's true and good and right
And then expect "to get somewhere".
Progress cannot start with error.

It only causes wrong direction
And soon your path will need correction.
If you get too far astray
You may have loss you can't repay.

Bow and bend upon your knee.
Pray and seek God for the key
To set your course on "solid ground"
So freedom always will abound.

America, you must turn back
To prayer... that we might stay on track.
You cannot eliminate
The very thing that made you great!

"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
James 5:16 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Jesus Loves Me... Oh, What Joy!

Oh, what joy it is to know
That Jesus gave His life for me.
My sin debt I no longer owe....
For He has come to set me free.

He is always by my side....
I never really feel alone.
His friendship is the greatest source
Of comfort that could e'er be known.

Whatever circumstance I'm in,
He's always there and understands.
When I leave my "trials" with Him,
My life rests safely in His hands.

His peace transcends all stress and struggle,
Causing cares to fade away.
In the light of His great power
I have victory day-to-day.

But best of all is His great love
Which covers, warms and heals the heart.
Never faltering, always there,
He daily brings a fresh, new start.

"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 creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."
Romans 8:38-39 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Good Work

If you are in a trying place
And circumstance don't want to face,
And then you pray to be relieved,
God's purpose may not be achieved.

You may not understand this season,
But God may have a special reason.
He may be working to bring change
And wondrous things for you arrange.

Don't wish to leave from where you are.
To "run" could make things worse by far.
Seek the Lord to know His will,
Then wait, be patient and be "still".

God knows exactly what you need
And knows the best way to proceed.
Let Him complete His work in you.
Give Him the glory which is due!

".....He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ."
Philippians 1:6 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Ball Of Fluff

"Fluffy" was a birthday present and arrived at my mom's home in a pretty box with a big bow. We brought her there in the car and then put her in the box just before we went to Mom's door. The box had an opening for air, and Fluffy sat inside quietly. She didn't wiggle, nor did she bark.

Fluffy was a small, white miniature poodle. Mom had seen her at a friend's house and fell in love with her but didn't have the money to buy her. So when Mom opened her present she was totally surprised to see her new pet. The two of them became "instant" best friends! And "Fluffy" was exactly the right name for this little dog... she was a real "fluff ball".

As Mom puttered around the house Fluffy would watch her every movement. She was like a little shadow, and she wanted to be in the middle of everything Mom did. In the evenings Mom would sit and crochet, and Fluffy would snuggle right up next to her.

At bedtime Fluffy would get a little miffed, however, because she could not sleep on Mom's bed. Mom really didn't want the dog in bed with her. Even so, Fluffy would always beg to get on the bed anyway. So finally one night Mom reluctantly gave in and let her sleep on the foot end of the bed. Fluffy wanted to be near her, and the warmth of the electric blanket really appealed to her.

One day I was at Mom's house, and Mom went into the bedroom to change the sheets on her bed. A few minutes later I heard her exclaim loudly, "That does it!!!" I couldn't imagine what she was upset about, so I went into the bedroom to see... just in time to hear her say, "I just found a milkbone under my pillow!" I burst out laughing, and then she did too. It seems that little by little Fluffy had been moving up toward the head end of the bed.

Fluffy was full of cute little antics and had lots of personality. Mom had many hours of enjoyment with her... this little four-legged birthday present.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

'Almost'

"Almost" may not be enough,
But it's still better than "not at all".
It doesn't meet the final test
But shows some effort, however small.

We won't win in every race
Or be the victor in every role,
But as we strive to please our God
He will help us reach our goal.

His perspective always is
To see us have maturity.
As we choose to walk with Him
He becomes our surety.....

That we will know which "race" to choose
And will complete His highest plan.
He will cause us to achieve.....
To finish all that He began.

"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith...."
Hebrews 12:1 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Time To Rest

When we are too rushed and too much in a hurry,
Then can't get things done..... which causes us worry,
It's time to sit back and review what we do.
For something will "fail" if we don't think this through.

To spread ourselves thin is really not wise.
It's time to make change and a new plan devise.
For when we are rushed we may miss "the best thing".
Then maybe look back and our hands we will wring.

We can pray and ask God to show us His way,
For He will then keep us from going astray.
And those all around us will be very blessed
For when we find God's way, we'll find peace and rest.

"Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows; for so He gives His beloved sleep."
Psalm 127:1-2 NKJ


© 2006 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

God Is Able

When you're struggling and you're tired,
And some change is much desired,
God will hear your cry.
He will satisfy.

When things just don't go right
And the future isn't bright,
God will hear your sigh.
He can satisfy.

If you're lonely and distraught
And friendship you have sought,
His love He won't deny.
His love will satisfy.

If you need to move ahead
But you're filled with fear and dread,
He'll be with you as you try.
His peace will satisfy.

If your money is deficient
And your work is not sufficient,
He will give supply.
He will satisfy.

If you've sinned and feel deep shame,
He'll forgive and take your blame.
Your life He'll beautify.
He will satisfy.

"Because he has set his love upon Me, therefore I will deliver him; I will set him on high, because he has known My name. He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honor him. With long life I will satisfy him and show him My salvation."
Psalm 91:14-16 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Full Of Flowers

In the landscape of the heart.....
Are there flowers growing there?
Will the seeds which have been planted
Thrive and bring good blooms to bear?

If the seedlings are well tended
They will have strong root and stem.
With "watering" and careful nurture
Love will blossom forth from them,

Blessing others by their beauty,
Spilling fragrance all around.
When the Lord works in the garden
Love and kindness will abound.

"A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things."
Matthew 12:35 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Higher In Prayer

In prayer with You, Lord,
I want to go higher.
To soar in the heavenlies
Is my desire,

To feel Your touch
And speak heart-to-heart
In the Holy of Holies...
That place set apart,

Where worldly things fade
And I only see You,
With the day's heavy burdens
No longer in view.

Hidden with You
In the stillness of prayer,
I am transformed
As You graciously share.

It is here that You change me
And make me to be
Much more than I am
And to see as You see.

"Surely I will not come into the tabernacle of my house, nor go up into my bed; I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids, until I find out a place for the Lord, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob."
Psalm 132:3-5 KJV

© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Running Too Fast

People are going too fast in this day.
They talk and they "rattle" and have much to say,
But don't recognize what is easy to see.
The message they leave is "It's all about me."

They're caught up in hobby and caught up in job,
And schedules they keep will their energies rob.
Their focus becomes "just keeping their pace",
But God doesn't want us to constantly "race".

Their relationships suffer with neighbor and friend
When activities center on "self" without end.
They "hear" but don't hear, and "see" but don't see.
They don't seem to know that "It's not about me."

If we don't reach out and listen and learn,
We'll tend to pass over another's concern.
God wants us to love and to always be kind.....
To not put self first, but balance to find.

We never will know who our neighbor might be
If we don't make change from "It's all about me!"
To put others first is really the key,
For relationship speaks about "both me and thee".

"Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek it's own....."
I Corinthians 13:4-5 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Little Bird

A Children's Poem

Little birdie, winging high,
How I wish that I could fly.
If I had wings then I would try
To flutter up into the sky.

In the wind you soar and glide.
In it's currents I see you ride.
I've watched you circle high and wide,
Far across the mountainside.

You never seem to have concern.
You truly make my heart to yearn...
Every time when you return
To know all that your eyes discern.

Little bird with silver wing,
How do you so sweetly sing?
Beauty to my ear you bring
As you make your sweet song ring.


© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf