Some have had a very good year
With opportunity and cheer,
And others seemed to struggle through,
Looking toward a year that's new.
For those who feel they may have failed,
Whose "mountains" just could not be scaled,
Let the old year be at rest.
This new year just may be your best!
Ask the Lord new doors to ope.
Be encouraged! Have new hope.
He can turn the old year's test
To something positive and blessed!
"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 3:5-6 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
The Song Of The Heart
Jesus gives a song in the heart...
The loveliest music it ever will know.
He is the melody, His are the lyrics
Of beautiful strains which echo and flow.
He is the Master of songs of the heart.
If we will listen, His songs we will hear.
He sings the tunes, He IS the song
Which wells up inside and plays in the ear.
His precious strains will change us within,
Linger in memory and cause us to sing.
We then will worship His marvelous name,
Rejoicing each day in the song He will bring.
"The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him."
Exodus 15:2 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
The loveliest music it ever will know.
He is the melody, His are the lyrics
Of beautiful strains which echo and flow.
He is the Master of songs of the heart.
If we will listen, His songs we will hear.
He sings the tunes, He IS the song
Which wells up inside and plays in the ear.
His precious strains will change us within,
Linger in memory and cause us to sing.
We then will worship His marvelous name,
Rejoicing each day in the song He will bring.
"The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father's God, and I will exalt him."
Exodus 15:2 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 29, 2008
A Gift Of Joy
I had a friend whose joy was like sunshine.
Moments with her would often be fun-time.
Humor and laughter just seemed to surround her,
Even when problems would nag or occur.
She had her weights and burdens to bear,
But she read the Word and spent time in prayer.
Her faith in God would lift and renew.
No matter the problem, her joy would shine through.
Even when ill she still prayed for others,
Family and friends, sisters and brothers.
Joy was her gift, which she shared with all.
In friendship and love she stood very tall.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Moments with her would often be fun-time.
Humor and laughter just seemed to surround her,
Even when problems would nag or occur.
She had her weights and burdens to bear,
But she read the Word and spent time in prayer.
Her faith in God would lift and renew.
No matter the problem, her joy would shine through.
Even when ill she still prayed for others,
Family and friends, sisters and brothers.
Joy was her gift, which she shared with all.
In friendship and love she stood very tall.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 28, 2008
The Mountaintop
When I am in the valley and feel so very low,
And I don't have the answers which I really need to know,
I come into His presence and fall upon my face.
When I pray He takes me to the mountaintop of grace.
The valley is behind me, for His grace has raised me up.
When I am down He's faithful to always fill my cup.
His grace is always more than my very deepest need.
Abiding in His presence to the mountaintop will lead.
His grace is as a shelter in which I may reside...
That blessed mountaintop, where I may safely hide.
Peace and joy and stillness are the measures of His grace...
Available to all who will pray and seek His face.
"And he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness...' "
II Corinthians 12:0 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And I don't have the answers which I really need to know,
I come into His presence and fall upon my face.
When I pray He takes me to the mountaintop of grace.
The valley is behind me, for His grace has raised me up.
When I am down He's faithful to always fill my cup.
His grace is always more than my very deepest need.
Abiding in His presence to the mountaintop will lead.
His grace is as a shelter in which I may reside...
That blessed mountaintop, where I may safely hide.
Peace and joy and stillness are the measures of His grace...
Available to all who will pray and seek His face.
"And he said unto me, 'My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness...' "
II Corinthians 12:0 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 27, 2008
A Healing Balm
Pleasant words are wonderful,
And laughter a sweet salve,
To bless and satisfy the soul...
Treasured gifts to have.
Merriment and joy will buoy us up
And "light" our day.
What better way to greet the morn
And wash sad thoughts away.
Life and health and happiness
Are cheered by lovely speech,
For gentle words and tenderness
Deep in the heart will reach.
As laughter brings it's healing flow
And each new day unfolds,
We will find ourselves enriched
By all that gladness holds.
"The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat."
Proverbs 15:30 KJV
"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:24 KJV
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine..."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And laughter a sweet salve,
To bless and satisfy the soul...
Treasured gifts to have.
Merriment and joy will buoy us up
And "light" our day.
What better way to greet the morn
And wash sad thoughts away.
Life and health and happiness
Are cheered by lovely speech,
For gentle words and tenderness
Deep in the heart will reach.
As laughter brings it's healing flow
And each new day unfolds,
We will find ourselves enriched
By all that gladness holds.
"The light of the eyes rejoiceth the heart: and a good report maketh the bones fat."
Proverbs 15:30 KJV
"Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:24 KJV
"A merry heart doeth good like a medicine..."
Proverbs 17:22 KJV
2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Sounds Of Christmas
Carolers singing, a joyful sound bringing,
Trumpets and choirs and pretty bells ringing...
These are the sounds of bright Christmas cheer,
Announcing good news for all men to hear!
"Peace be on earth and good will toward men."
Let this be broadcast again and again!
Jesus has come... He is the Light,
Hope for mankind... the world to ignite.
Let celebration well up in your heart
And cause daily worries to flee and depart.
Jesus is come, our joy to renew.
Let His song ring forth... in me and in you!
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Trumpets and choirs and pretty bells ringing...
These are the sounds of bright Christmas cheer,
Announcing good news for all men to hear!
"Peace be on earth and good will toward men."
Let this be broadcast again and again!
Jesus has come... He is the Light,
Hope for mankind... the world to ignite.
Let celebration well up in your heart
And cause daily worries to flee and depart.
Jesus is come, our joy to renew.
Let His song ring forth... in me and in you!
"And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."
Luke 2:10-11 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Love Came Down On Christmas Eve
Jesus came... for me and you.
Quietly He made debut.
Time would prove He was God's Son,
The King of Kings, Most Holy One.
God poured out His love that night
In a tiny babe... so slight.
No one knew how great His plan
To cover sin and redeem man.
When He sent His precious Son
He had thoughts of us... each one.
He gave us the best He had.
Rejoice and be exceeding glad!
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Quietly He made debut.
Time would prove He was God's Son,
The King of Kings, Most Holy One.
God poured out His love that night
In a tiny babe... so slight.
No one knew how great His plan
To cover sin and redeem man.
When He sent His precious Son
He had thoughts of us... each one.
He gave us the best He had.
Rejoice and be exceeding glad!
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
A Gift Of Priceless Worth
Sounds of worship waft and swell
As God's sweet promise comes to dwell.
Once again we celebrate
And with anticipation wait.
This little babe of lowly birth
Was God's own gift of priceless worth.
Gather round the manger low.
Love and adoration show.
This time of joy will warm the heart
And Heaven's blessings will impart.
As once again we are renewed
We bow in heart-felt gratitude.
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
Luke 2:11-14 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
As God's sweet promise comes to dwell.
Once again we celebrate
And with anticipation wait.
This little babe of lowly birth
Was God's own gift of priceless worth.
Gather round the manger low.
Love and adoration show.
This time of joy will warm the heart
And Heaven's blessings will impart.
As once again we are renewed
We bow in heart-felt gratitude.
"For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."
Luke 2:11-14 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 22, 2008
Let The Children Sing
At Christmas let the children sing.
Let their little voices ring!
Let their hearts well up with joy,
Every girl and every boy.
As they sing of Jesus' birth
And are filled with glee and mirth,
Listen to their gentle sound.
Love and sweetness there abound.
Children have a special way
In how they sing and what they say.
They will bring a simple view
Which oft refreshes me and you.
When the little children sing,
Special blessings they will bring.
Listen to their voices sweet
As the Savior's birth they greet.
"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 19:14 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Let their little voices ring!
Let their hearts well up with joy,
Every girl and every boy.
As they sing of Jesus' birth
And are filled with glee and mirth,
Listen to their gentle sound.
Love and sweetness there abound.
Children have a special way
In how they sing and what they say.
They will bring a simple view
Which oft refreshes me and you.
When the little children sing,
Special blessings they will bring.
Listen to their voices sweet
As the Savior's birth they greet.
"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven."
Matthew 19:14 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Jesus Is Born
A tiny babe's cry pierced out through the night,
Forever to change the darkness to light.
It was God's loving plan for all of mankind.
This event which took place by God was hand-signed.
The life of this babe would be flawless and pure
And would bring answer men's sorrows to cure.
He would bring life and wash away sin,
That men everywhere might eternal life win.
That tiny cry pierces darkness today.
Jesus was come... your sin-debt to pay.
For those who receive Him and live in His light
He'll cut through your darkness and make your lilfe bright.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Forever to change the darkness to light.
It was God's loving plan for all of mankind.
This event which took place by God was hand-signed.
The life of this babe would be flawless and pure
And would bring answer men's sorrows to cure.
He would bring life and wash away sin,
That men everywhere might eternal life win.
That tiny cry pierces darkness today.
Jesus was come... your sin-debt to pay.
For those who receive Him and live in His light
He'll cut through your darkness and make your lilfe bright.
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through him might be saved."
John 3:16-17 KJV
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 20, 2008
A Childhood Christmas
The light in the eyes of a sweet little child,
Worshipping Jesus, the sweet baby mild,
Is precious and tender and wondrous to see.
His love is so pure and his spirit so free.
Lord, let this "imprint" on him ne'er be lost.
May Your love and grace in his heart be embossed.
May the wonder and awe which he has in his heart
Always remain there... Your joy to impart.
For childhood will fade and a young man emerge.
May angels keep watch and around him converge
To guard and protect this wonder and awe.
Let him ne'er forget the "manger" he saw.
"For He will give His angels (especial) charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways (of obedience and service)."
Psalm 91:11 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Worshipping Jesus, the sweet baby mild,
Is precious and tender and wondrous to see.
His love is so pure and his spirit so free.
Lord, let this "imprint" on him ne'er be lost.
May Your love and grace in his heart be embossed.
May the wonder and awe which he has in his heart
Always remain there... Your joy to impart.
For childhood will fade and a young man emerge.
May angels keep watch and around him converge
To guard and protect this wonder and awe.
Let him ne'er forget the "manger" he saw.
"For He will give His angels (especial) charge over you to accompany and defend and preserve you in all your ways (of obedience and service)."
Psalm 91:11 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, December 19, 2008
Angels' 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
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
Thursday, December 18, 2008
God's Christmas Gift For You
In the bustle of this season
Some folks may not feel festive,
For deep within there is some pain
Which of sorrow is suggestive.
There is a very blessed answer
For those who struggle in this way.
Jesus is God's Christmas gift,
Who came to take your pain away.
His love will bring you through this season
And richly warm your heart anew...
His joy and lovingkindness
Are His Christmas gifts to you.
So find your peace in God's great gift...
He'll cause your joy to overflow.
Let Jesus fill you with His love,
Which far surpasses all we know.
".....In thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Psalm 16:11 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Some folks may not feel festive,
For deep within there is some pain
Which of sorrow is suggestive.
There is a very blessed answer
For those who struggle in this way.
Jesus is God's Christmas gift,
Who came to take your pain away.
His love will bring you through this season
And richly warm your heart anew...
His joy and lovingkindness
Are His Christmas gifts to you.
So find your peace in God's great gift...
He'll cause your joy to overflow.
Let Jesus fill you with His love,
Which far surpasses all we know.
".....In thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore."
Psalm 16:11 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Re-Capturing Christmas
A subtle loss at Christmas
In the world as we now know it
Has been meaningful tradition...
So many just forego it.
The season is so very full
Of things we "need" to do
That the real point of Christmas
Is being lost from view.
We can take a different path,
Avoiding all this tension,
And re-create a Christmas time
With beauty and dimension.
The real gift of Christmas is
Taking time to help another
Or making something really nice
For family, friend or brother.
The love and wonder of this season
Are seen in people's faces
When we reach out in Jesus' name
With love and warm embraces.
Reaching out to show the world
The Father's awesome love.....
There is no finer gift than this,
By which we honor Him thereof.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the govenment shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In the world as we now know it
Has been meaningful tradition...
So many just forego it.
The season is so very full
Of things we "need" to do
That the real point of Christmas
Is being lost from view.
We can take a different path,
Avoiding all this tension,
And re-create a Christmas time
With beauty and dimension.
The real gift of Christmas is
Taking time to help another
Or making something really nice
For family, friend or brother.
The love and wonder of this season
Are seen in people's faces
When we reach out in Jesus' name
With love and warm embraces.
Reaching out to show the world
The Father's awesome love.....
There is no finer gift than this,
By which we honor Him thereof.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the govenment shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Roots
Can our roots be found in the tenets of God?
Are our feet with sandals of holiness shod?
Are His roots in us well-founded and strong...
To help us discern what is right or is wrong?
Roots are important and shape who we are
And set good example to men near and far.
Good roots, well-nourished, are stable and "fixed".
In hard times they will not be altered or "mixed".
But when folks are rooted in things not of God,
Things which are worldly, or maybe just odd,
And then hardship looms, their footing is weak.
Without roots in God the future is bleak.
Good roots are healthy and cheerful and bright.
In times of great darkness they are as light.
They will not falter or wobble or sway
But give us foundation for every new day.
"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."
Colossians 2:6-7 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Are our feet with sandals of holiness shod?
Are His roots in us well-founded and strong...
To help us discern what is right or is wrong?
Roots are important and shape who we are
And set good example to men near and far.
Good roots, well-nourished, are stable and "fixed".
In hard times they will not be altered or "mixed".
But when folks are rooted in things not of God,
Things which are worldly, or maybe just odd,
And then hardship looms, their footing is weak.
Without roots in God the future is bleak.
Good roots are healthy and cheerful and bright.
In times of great darkness they are as light.
They will not falter or wobble or sway
But give us foundation for every new day.
"As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in him: rooted and built up in him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving."
Colossians 2:6-7 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, December 12, 2008
Being A Mom
Being a mom is wonderful and certainly is never dull. Today I am recalling one very eventful day with my children...
When my son was four years old and my daughter was three, both of them being very quick-witted, I couldn't guess any day in the week what the day might bring.
One Sunday morning I was rushing to get them ready for church, and I thought everything was in place. We were ready to go out the door when I realized I hadn't put my lipstick on. As I went to do this I heard a major eruption... instant chaos... in the living room. I ran in there to check it out, and I couldn't believe my eyes. Both children were screaming and had blood all over their clothes. It seemed my son had tried to cut my daughter's hair, but in doing so he cut her ear!
She wasn't cut badly (nor did she lose much hair), but we had to deal with the bleeding and upset feelings. Both children were frightened and needed comforting. Then we had to start all over to get them dressed. Their pretty clothes were a mess. Obviously we were late to church and missed Sunday School that morning... quite a day!
The ear healed, the hair grew back out, and the clothes all got washed. But we learned early that with small children most everything is subject to change at some point... especially schedules. Looking back now, all of us can chuckle about that event.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
When my son was four years old and my daughter was three, both of them being very quick-witted, I couldn't guess any day in the week what the day might bring.
One Sunday morning I was rushing to get them ready for church, and I thought everything was in place. We were ready to go out the door when I realized I hadn't put my lipstick on. As I went to do this I heard a major eruption... instant chaos... in the living room. I ran in there to check it out, and I couldn't believe my eyes. Both children were screaming and had blood all over their clothes. It seemed my son had tried to cut my daughter's hair, but in doing so he cut her ear!
She wasn't cut badly (nor did she lose much hair), but we had to deal with the bleeding and upset feelings. Both children were frightened and needed comforting. Then we had to start all over to get them dressed. Their pretty clothes were a mess. Obviously we were late to church and missed Sunday School that morning... quite a day!
The ear healed, the hair grew back out, and the clothes all got washed. But we learned early that with small children most everything is subject to change at some point... especially schedules. Looking back now, all of us can chuckle about that event.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Finding Christmas
The real Christmas isn't found
In presents from a shopping mall
And dashing back and forth in stores
For many items, large and small.
Jesus Christ is still the reason -
Christmas is His wondrous story.
He was God's most precious gift.
We should praise and give Him glory.
Jesus' name has been erased
From speech and courts and public schools,
But He still lives in many hearts.
He is Lord, and He still rules!
What a wondrous gift God gave,
Of love and joy and hope for all.
The happiness which Jesus brings
Cannot be purchased in a mall.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
In presents from a shopping mall
And dashing back and forth in stores
For many items, large and small.
Jesus Christ is still the reason -
Christmas is His wondrous story.
He was God's most precious gift.
We should praise and give Him glory.
Jesus' name has been erased
From speech and courts and public schools,
But He still lives in many hearts.
He is Lord, and He still rules!
What a wondrous gift God gave,
Of love and joy and hope for all.
The happiness which Jesus brings
Cannot be purchased in a mall.
"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Mirrors Of Christmas
If this Christmas season were seen in a mirror,
What would be found there in it's clear reflection?
Would there be singing, or sharing and love...
Would anything there point in Jesus' direction?
Would there be scenes of sweet celebration,
Honoring Jesus... rememb'ring His birth?
Who there would practice "good will to all men"
And live in a way to bring peace on the earth?
Christmas has meaning anew every year
As His love is birthed afresh in each heart.
And when this happens, new joy will come forth...
His love and His peace and warmth to impart.
The scenes in the mirror will be lovely indeed,
Recording the love of the Christmas season,
For all that has meaning and really has worth
Is found in our Lord... HE is the reason!
Without Jesus Christ the mirrors will be empty
And will not record a scene or reflection.
The scenes will be lost, for they don't have true meaning,
And will not be worthy of sweet recollection.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
What would be found there in it's clear reflection?
Would there be singing, or sharing and love...
Would anything there point in Jesus' direction?
Would there be scenes of sweet celebration,
Honoring Jesus... rememb'ring His birth?
Who there would practice "good will to all men"
And live in a way to bring peace on the earth?
Christmas has meaning anew every year
As His love is birthed afresh in each heart.
And when this happens, new joy will come forth...
His love and His peace and warmth to impart.
The scenes in the mirror will be lovely indeed,
Recording the love of the Christmas season,
For all that has meaning and really has worth
Is found in our Lord... HE is the reason!
Without Jesus Christ the mirrors will be empty
And will not record a scene or reflection.
The scenes will be lost, for they don't have true meaning,
And will not be worthy of sweet recollection.
© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
We Can Rise Higher
When God gives a path in which we should walk,
It's good to keep focused and not pause or balk.
We should not look to the left or the right
But tread on His path and follow His light.
For His plans hold promise and hope for each life...
To help us to prosper and keep us from strife.
We have potential we don't even know,
And as we're obedient, our path He will show.
We can rise higher than we may have thought
And find rich fulfillment as by Him we're taught.
He makes us worthy. Let His name be praised!
All glory and honor and worship be raised!
"It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It's good to keep focused and not pause or balk.
We should not look to the left or the right
But tread on His path and follow His light.
For His plans hold promise and hope for each life...
To help us to prosper and keep us from strife.
We have potential we don't even know,
And as we're obedient, our path He will show.
We can rise higher than we may have thought
And find rich fulfillment as by Him we're taught.
He makes us worthy. Let His name be praised!
All glory and honor and worship be raised!
"It is God that girdeth me with strength, and maketh my way perfect. He maketh my feet like hinds' feet, and setteth me upon my high places."
Psalm 18:32-33 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 08, 2008
Winter White
Winter steals in as autumn's light fades
And brings her own message in snowy charades.
Each of the seasons has colorful flair
Except for sweet winter... all white she will wear.
She takes delight in flurries and flakes,
And when we aren't looking the landscape remakes.
Fairy-tale scenes are her specialty.
The artistry in her rejoices with glee.
While earth has rest she paints all in white
And transforms the scenery to look pure and bright,
Like marshmallow frosting or whipped cream on cake,
...Until in the spring the earth will awake.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
And brings her own message in snowy charades.
Each of the seasons has colorful flair
Except for sweet winter... all white she will wear.
She takes delight in flurries and flakes,
And when we aren't looking the landscape remakes.
Fairy-tale scenes are her specialty.
The artistry in her rejoices with glee.
While earth has rest she paints all in white
And transforms the scenery to look pure and bright,
Like marshmallow frosting or whipped cream on cake,
...Until in the spring the earth will awake.
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Saturday, December 06, 2008
Christmas Is Coming!
Christmas is coming! Christmas is coming!
It's time to remember our great Savior's birth...
A time of rejoicing, a time to bring priase
And celebrate Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let choirs make song and many bells ring!
Let music rise up in jubilant sound!
Let our Savior's birth be greeted with joy!
Let banners be drawn and worship abound!
Let the Good News be spread far and wide.
Magnify Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let all that we do in this wonderful season
Bring glory and honor and tell of His worth!
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It's time to remember our great Savior's birth...
A time of rejoicing, a time to bring priase
And celebrate Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let choirs make song and many bells ring!
Let music rise up in jubilant sound!
Let our Savior's birth be greeted with joy!
Let banners be drawn and worship abound!
Let the Good News be spread far and wide.
Magnify Jesus throughout all the earth!
Let all that we do in this wonderful season
Bring glory and honor and tell of His worth!
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Friday, December 05, 2008
A Sturdy Wall
A life is not strong when sin enters in.
It's "mortar" will crumble and weakness begin.
E'en as a wall with a tiny new crack,
It's strength will then ebb and integrity lack.
At first you can't see it - until it's too late -
But as the crack deepens it brings a sad state.
Under pressure or weight the wall might then fail,
For "dirt" in the crack will cause it to ail.
God can rebuild a wall "rent" by sin.
He'll cleanse all the cracks and put new mortar in.
Repentance will cause the crack to be healed.
By God's healing touch the wall will be sealed.
"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."
Isaiah 1:18 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
It's "mortar" will crumble and weakness begin.
E'en as a wall with a tiny new crack,
It's strength will then ebb and integrity lack.
At first you can't see it - until it's too late -
But as the crack deepens it brings a sad state.
Under pressure or weight the wall might then fail,
For "dirt" in the crack will cause it to ail.
God can rebuild a wall "rent" by sin.
He'll cleanse all the cracks and put new mortar in.
Repentance will cause the crack to be healed.
By God's healing touch the wall will be sealed.
"Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."
Isaiah 1:18 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Thursday, December 04, 2008
The Lighthouse Of The Lord
In the Lighthouse of the Lord
All are welcome to come in.
He stands with arms wide open
To redeem our lives from sin.
The Lighthouse never closes,
Not through storms nor through the night,
But offers hope for aching souls
To those who seek His light.
He saves the lost, heals the lame
And comforts those who mourn.
He cares for every hurting soul
No matter how forlorn.
Come into His Lighthouse.
Let Him touch your life today.
He brings joy for brokenness
And washes pain away.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
All are welcome to come in.
He stands with arms wide open
To redeem our lives from sin.
The Lighthouse never closes,
Not through storms nor through the night,
But offers hope for aching souls
To those who seek His light.
He saves the lost, heals the lame
And comforts those who mourn.
He cares for every hurting soul
No matter how forlorn.
Come into His Lighthouse.
Let Him touch your life today.
He brings joy for brokenness
And washes pain away.
"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
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
A Faithful "Mom"
A mother hen with little chicks
Gathers them beneath her wing.
She watches for their safety
And to her they closely cling.
This feathered "mom" is very wise,
And doesn't leave her chicks alone.
She watches and she shelters them
From that which is unknown.
Moms and Dads, be careful
Of your children every day.
Know just where they are
And with whom your children play.
Left alone they have no guide
To keep them safe from harm.
If you're not sure just where they are
This is cause for real alarm.
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Gathers them beneath her wing.
She watches for their safety
And to her they closely cling.
This feathered "mom" is very wise,
And doesn't leave her chicks alone.
She watches and she shelters them
From that which is unknown.
Moms and Dads, be careful
Of your children every day.
Know just where they are
And with whom your children play.
Left alone they have no guide
To keep them safe from harm.
If you're not sure just where they are
This is cause for real alarm.
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
Goodness
"Goodness" builds a pretty house.
Warmth and love she will espouse.
Her rooms are filled with joy and health
And happiness... she has much wealth.
"Goodness" is a choice we make,
Sweet opportunity we take.
She will change our wordly view
From "negative" to "bright and new".
"Goodness" has an open door
Where we may enter and find more.
Her peace and joy are without end.
"Goodness" is a lovely friend.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
Galatians 5:22-23 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Warmth and love she will espouse.
Her rooms are filled with joy and health
And happiness... she has much wealth.
"Goodness" is a choice we make,
Sweet opportunity we take.
She will change our wordly view
From "negative" to "bright and new".
"Goodness" has an open door
Where we may enter and find more.
Her peace and joy are without end.
"Goodness" is a lovely friend.
"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law."
Galatians 5:22-23 KJV
© 2008 Arlene Schwartzkopf
Monday, December 01, 2008
Love Is Healing
It's easy to love when all is at ease.
To love on a good day is simply "a breeze".
But what do we do when something goes sour?
Are we loving and kind or cranky and dour?
The love that we show may face a hard test
When things get upset and are not at rest.
But practicing love in times of duress
Will cause us to grow and overcome stress.
This may mean swallowing some pride or "position",
Or holding our tongue in quiet submission,
Showing some patience when we are unhappy,
Not fretting or pouting or just being snappy.
For love is the healing which often is needed,
And it will bring breakthrough if we've interceded.
Love is the key to each situation
And often may be the only salvation.
"Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins - forgives and disregards the offenses of others."
I Peter 4:8 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
To love on a good day is simply "a breeze".
But what do we do when something goes sour?
Are we loving and kind or cranky and dour?
The love that we show may face a hard test
When things get upset and are not at rest.
But practicing love in times of duress
Will cause us to grow and overcome stress.
This may mean swallowing some pride or "position",
Or holding our tongue in quiet submission,
Showing some patience when we are unhappy,
Not fretting or pouting or just being snappy.
For love is the healing which often is needed,
And it will bring breakthrough if we've interceded.
Love is the key to each situation
And often may be the only salvation.
"Above all things have intense and unfailing love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins - forgives and disregards the offenses of others."
I Peter 4:8 Amplified Bible
© 2007 Arlene Schwartzkopf
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