My Burden Is Light

When all seems lost and sorrow enters,
And in the heart your sadness centers,
Know that God will hear your cry.
He sees your heart and hears your sigh.

When you are weary in your race
And one more day can't seem to face,
He will give the strength you need
To reach your goal and to succeed.

When confusion seems to reign
And you find yourself in pain,
He will lead and guide you through.
He will show you what to do.

If you've failed and made offense...
Afraid to face the consequence,
He will give a second chance
And help you through your circumstance.

In Jesus' Name are might and power
To meet your need in every hour.
Call upon His wondrous name.
Then give Him glory and acclaim!

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

© 2005 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

Love Is

THE BEST PORTION IN LIFE

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

LOVE IS.....

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

LOVE IS.....

The best gift of all.....

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

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

An Unfriendly Critter

Deceit is subtle, but deadly.
It comes hidden in a smile or a gift or a flattery
and may look attractive.

It is a lie or an imitation.
It masquerades as something different than what it is.

It is never transparent and is a trickery
upon innocent lives.

It is a trap.
It is hateful and selfish and will try to present
untruth as truth.

It has no good intent.

A little bit is always too much!


"The thoughts of the righteous are right. but the counsels of the wicked are deceitful."
Proverts 12:5 NKJ

"He who hates, disguises it with his lips, and lays up deceit within himself."
Proverbs 26:24 NKJ

"A Lying tongue hates those who are crushed by it, and a flattering mouth works ruin."
Proverbs 26:28 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Real Peace

The peace of the Lord is beyond comprehension
And touches our lives in every dimension.
As we trust in Him and seek Him in prayer
He will surround us and take every care.

The place of His peace is a place set apart,
Where we walk with Him and He speaks to our heart.
Nothing could ever compare to His "rest".
Nothing on earth could make us more blessed!

As we depend on the Lord every day
He covers our path in every way.
His peace is "steady" and carries us through
With calm and sereneness in all that we do.

"Be careful for nothing: but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be mde known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jeuss."
Philippians 4:6-7 KJV

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. 'Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.' "
John 14:27 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Child's Touch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Greatful

Precious Jesus.....

I am so thinkful for every new day
And want to use each one the very best way.
You are the Maker and Giver of all.
I'm grateful for Your gifts..... for big and for small.

As Your love and Your joy You graciously share,
Of Your precious presence I'm always aware.
I'm never alone, for You're at my side.
In sweet fellowswhip with You I'll abide.

Troubles may come and troubles may go,
And yet in the midst of them I always know
That You will be faithful to carry me through.
I need not be anxious..... because I know You.

You're always there for me.
Thank You, Jesus.

"Because thy lovingkindness is better than life, my lips shall praise thee, thus will I bless thee while I live: I will lift up my hands in thy name."
Psalm 63:3-4 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Competitors

This is a story of canine vs. feline. Scruffy and Kitty Cat were always trying to eat each other's food, and this didn't work. The cat food made Scruffy sick, and his dog food made Kitty sick.

One evening I put the cat food down for Kitty Cat, and as she was starting to eat it Scruffy started toward her dish. But he stopped halfway there and looked up at me because he knew I was watching. I sternly warned him, "Don't you DARE!"

But a second later, as I glanced away at something, he ran over there, bumped her out of the way with his shoulder and started eating her food. What a "pill" he could be sometimes!

I had been folding up a paper grocery bag as I watched this. In an effort to stop Scruffy, I stepped over there with the intent to swat him with the folded bag. I knew the bag wouldn't hurt him, but I thought it might back him off a little. My plan backfired. As I tried to swat him the bag popped open, making a loud, "cracking" sound. Poor Kitty Cat was so startled by the sound, she ran the whole length of the house and hid behind the television cabinet near the front door. Kitty wasn't having a good evening. First the dog just bumped her away from her dish, then he ate her food, and then I scared her out of her wits with the paper bag.

I went in the living room to try to comfort and pet her a little bit, but she was too scared to come out from behind the cabinet. So I opened the front door and she quickly darted outside. She just wanted out!

My attempt to help her just didn't work. So after that I put her food dish on top of our kitchen step stool where the dog couldn't get it. I often thought..... these two pets were like having a couple of extra kids!!! They definitely livened things up around our house.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Lesson Of The Violet

Seasons of Rest

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Anchored In The Storm

Are you anchored in the Lord?
Have you read His Word today?
Are you strengthened in your walk
Because you took some time to pray?

He has promised in His Word
That we'll be strong and we'll be bold
If we lean upon His name.
He will make our anchor hold!

We can then be strong in Him
Though storms may rage and ill winds blow.
We can stand and not be moved
Though difficulty's face may show.

His reassurance through the storm
Will be to us a healing balm.
As we acknowledge He is able
We will have His peace and calm.


"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof."
Psalm 46:1-3 KJV

"But as they sailed, he fell asleep: and there came down a storm of wind on the lake; and they were filled with water, and were in jeopardy. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm."
Luke 8:23-24 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Little Lost Lamb

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Bright Outlook

Are you "contagious" and make others glad?
Do you have qualities some wish they had?
Lifestyle is "catching" and speaks loud and clear.
It issues a message of what you hold dear.

The way that you live is a path that you choose.
Your outlook on life can be one of good news!
If you have Jesus and give time to prayer,
Even your enemies will be aware.

For you will have strength and an outlook that's bright.
Your life will draw others to that which is right.
You'll be "infectious" when you do your best,
And those all around you will truly be blessed.

".....Be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity."
I Timothy 4:12 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Higher Plane

Help me, Lord, to be more in tune with You.....
To recognize and filter out the daily patterns of my own thinking
Which prevent me from having Your perspective throughout my day.

Help me to move past what is not of You.....
And move into the rhythm You would give me for each day,
Lest I miss opportunity You would want to give me.

Help me, Lord, to rest when You say to rest,
For "busyness" has no worth if it is not in Your timing.

You are able to balance my day.
And as I follow You I will want for no good thing.
My day will be exceeding rich.


"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."
Isaiah 55:8-9 KJV

"All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes: but the Lord weigheth the spirits. Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established."
Proverbs 16:2-3 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Our Loving God

In my times of deepest sorrow
He was there to comfort me.
He bore my grief and gave me hope.
He heard my prayers and heard my plea.

Our God is mindful of our needs,
And he is faithful to provide.
When we are down and face despair,
He is there right by our side.

No challenge is too big for Him...
Unforeseen or great or small.
He is greater than the need
And always hears our prayerful call.

Always in the Lord is respite,
Always in the Lord is peace.
Always in the Lord are answers
And the place of sweet release.

"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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Blessed Home

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Many Chipmunks

This is a story about a little dog named Cricket. Cricket was a small black-and-tan chihuahua and she became part of our family when I was in high school.

At that time my parents owned some farm property, and whenever Dad would get out his work boots to go to the farm, Cricket would run and wait by the back door. She knew where he was going and she wanted to go along. At the farm she could run all over without being on a leash.

The first time there she discovered some chipmunks, or perhaps they discovered her. I'm not sure which way it happened. The chipmunks were playing on a pile of boards which were left over from the little house my dad built. Cricket started chasing the chipmunks. Around and around the board pile she ran. The chipmunks weren't afraid, because when she got near them they would just run down through the middle of the pile and pop up on the other end, chattering loudly at her. This happened repeatedly. It almost seemed that the chipmunks were playing games with her, and she did not tire of chasing them.

In one instance she wasn't right by the board pile, and one of the chipmunks ran from the board pile across a short distance to go under the house. She saw him and immediately started toward him. The chipmunk went under the house, but she was going too fast and couldn't stop. Full speed ahead, she slammed into the house with her head..... thud! It's a wonder she didn't break her neck. But pretty soon the chipmunks were chattering at her again, and again she was chasing after them. We all heaved a big sigh of relief that she had not injured herself and seemed to be okay.

This same day one of the chipmunks, sitting a distance away on the ground, started chattering at her. She started in that direction. But between her and the chipmunk were some shallow pools of water. Each one measured approximately ten feet across and perhaps six inches deep. These pools were almost totally covered in thick green algae. Cricket apparently did not see the water. I could see what was going to happen, and I yelled at her, but she didn't stop. In her determination to catch the chipmunk she ran right into the water and across to the other side. What a sight she was! She was black when she went in and totally green when she came out! In the meantime, the chipmunk ran up an apple tree and sat on a limb chattering at her. I couldn't help laughing. She just looked a mess! It almost seemed like the chipmunk was laughing too. Even so, after cleaning her up, she continued in her chase. She wouldn't quit, nor would the chipmunks. She never did catch one ot the chipmunks because they were too quick for her.

I often thought that this dog should have lived on a farm. She had so much more fun there than home in the city!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Bright Smile

Choose to be positive,
Choose to be bright.
A smile is much better
Than being uptight.

Don't let the negative
Stuff pull you down,
'Cause then you will grumble
And may wear a frown.

And then when you grumble
And groan and complain...
If you do THAT
It will cause still more "pain"!

Choose to "look up"
And try to be merry.
When you are happy
Laughter will tarry.

And soon things won't seem
Quite as hard as they were.
When you're having fun
The "gripes" won't occur!

"A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance....."
Proverbs 15:13 KJV

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Under His Wings

How many times the Lord has provided safety for me while driving! Every morning I ask Him to protect me and my family on the road, and He has been so-o-o faithful in this.

I was on the freeway and traffic was heavier than usual. I was following a transport truck. Suddenly the truck moved left into the next lane, revealing to me that there was a large metal folding table laying upside down across my lane. Someone had lost it off his truck load. I was too close to it to stop and couldn't go around it. I swerved slightly but ran over it anyway.

I had a multitude of thoughts as to what the sharp metal edges and folded legs of the table might have done to my tires. Immediately I prayed that God would cause my tires to hold up until I got home..... approximately another seven miles. And the tires did hold!

That evening I noticed that one of the tires had gone flat. When I looked at it I discovered a hole in the sidewall. I had actually had a blow out but the tire didn't lose air pressure till I got home! And then when I went to buy a new tire, the tire company replaced the damaged tire for free!

What a beautiful answer to prayer! What a faithful and awesome God we have!

"Because thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of thy wings will I rejoice."
Psalm 63:7 KJV

"Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath 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 honour him."
Psalm 91:14-15 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Forgiveness

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Special Quilt

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Pat On The Back

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Peace

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

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

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

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

In You I may quietly rest.

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Young Again

The joy of a child as he runs in the breze
Is wondrous to watch..... he runs with such ease.
His heart isn't heavy or burdened with fear.
His footsteps are light..... and he's full of such cheer!

He hasn't learned to worry and fret.
The cares of the world have not weighed him down yet.
His giggles and laughter and bright, open smile
Remind me again how much life is worthwhile.

I want to capture these moments with rhyme
And happily go read them from time to time,
For thoughts of this child make me feel young again.
It reminds me of days which were "way back when".

In tribute to my grandson, who makes me feel young at heart!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Fragrance Of Christ

To live in the presence of Jesus is as being on the inside of a rosebud. And He is the Tender of the garden..... the Master Gardener. The rosebud, in His care, is filled with potential and promise, for He nurtures it and watches over every stage of it's growth.

As it begins to swell in size and the petals start to open even slightly, it's fragrance begins to come forth. And as it continues to open up, all that He has formed becomes evident in the eye of the beholder..... it's velvety petals, it's lovely color and it's sweet fragrance. It's beauty surpasses all other flowers.

Even so, our lives, when placed in His hands, will blossom fully and have a unique fragrance to bless all those around us. The beauty will come forth as we are nurtured in Him. Our stems will be strong and our foliage will be rich and full.

For surely as the rose is graced by the touch of His hand, so will our lives be graced by His presence.

"For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing."
II Corinthians 2:15 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Love Is Able

Love reaches across distance.
Love builds bridges which can't be built any other way.

Love soothes and heals.
Love warms and encourages the heart.

Love sees clearly, but doesn't waver.
Love does not fear, or shake or tremble.

Love enables one to stand.
Love is steady and unchanging.

Love is able.

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

People Who Inspire

RUTH

Ruth was a woman who had a bubbly personality and who loved the Lord with all her heart. She was a woman of prayer, and she believed in His healing power.

When she was eighty-four she went into the hospital for evaluation of a liver condition. Her husband Milt came to see her in the evening, and as he came into the room he heard the woman in the bed next to Ruth crying. (I never learned the name of the other lady, but will call her Mary for purposes of this story). Milt poked his head in through the curtains around Mary's bed to see what was the matter.....

Mary, who was seventy-five years old, had been brought into the hospital with severe pain from arthritis in both hands and both feet. Her hands were very crippled, and her feet were twisted out of shape. She could no longer walk and had been in a wheelchair for several years. She was crying from the intensity of the pain. Milt asked her if she would let his wife Ruth pray for her because Ruth believed in the healing power of God. She said, "yes." So Ruth got up from out of her own hospital bed and went over and laid hands on Mary and prayed for healing.

Around 4:00 a.m., the next morning, Ruth heard Mary call out quietly, "Ruth, Ruth." Then again she called, "Ruth, get up. Come here." So Ruth got up and went to see what Mary wanted. God had totally healed both of Mary's hands and both of her feet. She was excited and wanted to show Ruth.

Mary said to Ruth, "Just wait. I'm going to get up and take a shower", which she did with no help. Then she got herself dressed, and she was able to even button her own clothes, which she could not do before. Now all this was going on without the nurses down the hall even realizing these two women were up.

Mary was rejoicing and she wanted to tell somebody. So she and Ruth went down the long hallway to the nurses' station. When they got there one of the nurses asked, "What can I do for you?"

Mary answered, "Nothing! Ruth here prayed for me and I don't need anything!" She was healed and she was free of pain. Her hands and feet were normal again.

When Mary came into the hospital she was in a wheelchair. When she went home she was able to walk out of the hospital.....


"Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today
and forever."
Hebrews 13:8 NKJ

© 2005 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

Happy Feet

Obedient feet are happy feet
And walk wherever Jesus leads.
How many fruitless steps this saves
As we accomplish daily deeds.

He will keep our feet from snares
As He directs our daily walk,
And cause our hearts to dance with joy
If we do not His leading balk.

We sometimes may not understand
Just what His heavenly purpose is,
But wisdom tells us every time
It should not be our way, but His.

The beauty of a Godly walk
Far surpasses our weak plans,
As His care and covering
O'er our lives so gently spans.

He will show us all His ways
As we bow before His throne.
Our wonderful and awesome God
Covers those who are His own.

"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ."
Colossians 3:23 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Threads Of Loveliness

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Mailman's Best Friend

(For the first part of this story see May 30, 2006 Archive)

Pixie missed her mailman friend. She had followed him around for such a long time, and she really loved being with him. But now that he no longer worked in the area where she lived, she had to settle for just remembering "the good times". So she retired to just being at home with the family that owned her.

During the years that she was the mailman's dog, she was in a musical comedy, "Finian's Rainbow", at the Civic Theater. Our family was invited to come and see the production. The girl who owned Pixie was in the chorus on stage, and as long as the chorus was singing, Pixie just sat there with the "crowd" and waited. She was delightful. But during intermission, Pixie got away from the girl, picked up the mailman's scent and followed it to where we were in the theater. She came barreling down the aisle, found our row, and took a flying leap, running across the laps of everyone between the aisle and where we were. She "mobbed" the mailman with affection when she saw him. Luckily, the people who were sitting there when she came through were not angry with her but thought she was cute.

The people who owned Pixie owned a photo studio in the downtown area, and later on in years, as Pixie grew older, they took her to work with them at the studio. One day she got out the door and picked up the scent of the mailman, who was now working in that area. She followed his scent many blocks through the downtown area, and through the heavy traffic that was there, until she came to the post office. When the mailman came in from his route at the end of the day, there she was, sitting up next to his mail case waiting for him. They had a grand and very happy reunion!!! Somehow this made up for the time that they had not been together. But then he took her back to the studio.

Later on the mailman's family was able to borrow a leather mail pouch from the post office, take it to the photo studio and get professional photos of Pixie sitting in the pouch. These were a gift for the mailman in his retirement, so now the mailman had beautiful photos of his little four-legged friend.

Both he and Pixie seemed happiest when they were together!!!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Humility

Humility is soft within
And brings a quiet confidence.
It won't be found in boastful hearts
But gently lies in non-defense.

It doesn't search for accolades
Or feed on others' constant praise,
But rather meets another's needs
And never will it's banner raise.

It acts and serves as Jesus did
And won't promote itself above
Any other human being,
But sincerely serves in love.

"Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for 'God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble.' Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time, casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you."
I Peter 5:5-7 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Too Much Stuff

Omigosh, what's all this "stuff"?
We seem to have more than "enough"!
When we can't find some thing we sputter.....
We probably have too much clutter!

"Stuff" just seems to multiply.
And then we start to wonder why
We keep things "for a rainy day"
Which we should give or throw away!

So I'm cleaning corners out,
Making order roundabout.
Doing this may help me find
Lost items - and some peace of mind!

Stuff just seems to sneak right up.
And soon we have a pileup!
I'm going to change my ways this year,
(And hope that "stuff" won't reappear!)

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Heart Of Compassion

When a little child falls
And you lend him a hand,
Then he can get up
And be able to stand.

He may be shook up
And feel "ruffled" a bit,
But if you just hold him
He'll soon be quite "fit".

By being there for him
And showing him grace,
You've given him courage
His problem to face.

The child has been strengthened
Because someone cared.
And he will feel good
From the love you have shared.

"But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was; and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him."
Luke 10:33-34 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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: 27:31 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Nation

We have a Godly heritage.
We stand on firm foundation.
God has covered us with His hand
And mightily blessed this nation.

We should not change from who we are
And turn from Godly wisdom
To please a few with "new" ideas
Who would create schism.

America, we stand in prayer.
In God we trust, in Him abide.
Those of us who really care
Stand against this evil tide!

We need God our course to chart,
To lead our steps and guide our way.
Why should we from Him depart?
We will stand and we will pray!


"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord; and the people whom he hath chosen for his own inheritance."
Psalm 33:12 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Expressions Of The Heart

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2005 ArleneSchwartzkopf

His Peace

Do you ever just feel frazzled
When stress begins to build?
Just turn your focus to the Lord.
Your tension will be stilled.

Do you ever feel afraid
And are jittery inside?
Let the Lord take all your fears,
And in His peace abide.

Do you ever feel unsure
And just need some new direction?
Wait until you have His peace,
For He will give protection.

Jesus' peace is ever there.....
Only a prayer away.
Every day will be a joy
If in His peace you'll stay.

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

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

"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
John 14:27 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

White As Snow

If your life has not been good
And you've not done the things you should,
If you don't like your life's review,
It's not too late to start anew.

The Lord will cover with His grace
Past hurts and wrongs you can't erase.
He will wash away your sin
And give you peace and joy within.

He made provision long ago
So that all mankind would know
His love throughout eternity.....
He gave His life at Calvary.

This He did for you and me
From sin and shame to set us free.
Greater love has no man known
Than what our precious Lord has shown.

"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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Rooms Of My Life

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Little Butterfly

Graceful little butterfly,
I'm happy when you flutter by.
You move so lightly through the air.
My! What pretty wings you "wear"!

Happily you come and go,
But little friend, you do not know.....
You always make my day seem bright
By your cheerful, lilting flight.

The burdens that I have each day,
As I watch you, flit away.
You always make my heart feel light.
God's little gift, you bring delight!


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Does God Heal?

I had been invited to play worship for a large conference at our church. I had not been playing the piano for awhile, but the Lord prompted me that I was to trust Him and He would enable me to do it.

The day the conference started, I got up early to get ready for the morning session, and I was feeling a little nervous as I was preparing breakfast. To say the least, I was a little distracted as I was cooking.

I was preparing waffles, and as each one was done I would put it on a plate and set the plate in the oven (with the broiler on "warm") so that the waffle wouldn't get cold. When I was done making the waffles, I reached into the oven to get the plate, but in my distraction I put my finger and thumb on the oven coil instead of the plate. I jerked my arm back to see how badly I was burned. There was a blackened groove across both my finger and thumb. I couldn't believe this! What a problem I now had!

I went to the sink and began to let cold water run over the burns while I was trying to think what I was going to do. My mind was momentarily blank, so I just stood there and let the water run. At least it was blocking out the pain. Just then my son came into the kitchen, so I turned off the water to show him what I had done. As I showed him my fingers there was NO SIGN of the burns. God had intervened! The burns were totally gone and the pain was gone!

As unnerving as this experience was, it became an encouragement to me that I would indeed be able to play for the conference without failing. God had shown me in a very special way that He is strong when we are weak. What an awesome God we serve!


"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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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

Diligence

Diligence is a wonderful thing.....
A positive habit to which we should cling.
It gives attention to careful detail,
And when it is practiced, order will prevail.

It follows through on each task it began
And finishes up exactly as planned.
Diligence accomplishes all that it tries.
A diligent man is indeed very wise.

"The hand of the diligent will rule; but the slothful will be put to forced labor."
Proverbs 12:24 NKJ

"The soul of a sluggard desires, and has nothing; but the soul of the diligent shall be made rich."
Proverbs 13:4 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Fruits Of Gold

Oh Lord, You are so generous in Your gifts unto us..... in You there is great bounty.....

Being in Your presence is like walking in an orchard in time of harvest... Looking up I see fruit all around me in the trees. And I know that I may reach up and pick..... and then taste..... and savor that which has been given. And the store before me is plentiful and full of all good things.

As I sample what You have provided, I am overwhelmed at Your goodness..... Your fruits burst with new life, and they bring rich nourishment to my soul.

Thank You, Lord, that You give endless supply. What rich experience is found in You.....


"My fruit is better than gold, yes, than fine gold....."
Proverbs 8:19a NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Forest Story

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Footsteps Of Jesus

The footsteps of Jesus
In the sands of one's heart
Leave beautiful imprints
And new life impart.

But when strong winds of change
Blow the sand all around,
Then after a time
The prints can't be found.

So if we welcome Him
Again and again,
Our hearts will be full
Of His imprints then.

And though the winds blow
Or the waves overflow,
The imprints He made
Will continue to show.

Over time He is etched
In the sands of a heart,
And He can be seen
By the love we impart.

"Therefore be followers of God as dear children. And walk in love, as Christ also has loved us and given Himself for us, an offering and a sacrifice to God, for a sweet-smelling aroma."
Ephesians 5:1-2 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Father's Love

A gentle hand extended
From a heart that's filled with love
To touch another's hurting life
Will minister the Father's love.

A thoughtful word expressed
In a time of deep confusion
Will soothe and heal the deepest pain
And wash away delusion.

When the love of God is flowing,
Hindered not by self or pride,
Others then can feel His love
And will draw near Him to reside.

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Little Lamb

A little lamb fell
And he could not get up.
He struggled and tried,
But he was just stuck!

He did not know
Just what he would do
To get himself freed.....
He had not a clue.

His other sheep friends
Just walked right on by.
He hoped they would help him,
But they didn't try.

Then a little boy saw him
And ran to his side.
"Sad little lamb,
I heard when you cried!"

The little boy helped him
To stand on his feet.
With joy and relief
Did the little lamb bleat!

He was not hurt
But nervous and scared.
He was so glad
That the little boy cared.

He was happy again.
He could run all around.
When the little boy helped him,
A new friend he found.

The little boy saw
That the lamb had a need.
When he stooped down to help him,
He did a good deed!

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Pathway Through The Valley

A Song

When I'm walking through the valley
And the path is sometimes long,
I yearn to reach the mountain top
And sing a brand new song.

I know I'll find the mountain top
If I just trust in You,
In the valley where I walk today,
I know You'll guide me through.

Then I will climb the mountain
And daily cares transcend.
But I know that I'll not stay there,
For the valley is my friend.

You teach me in the valley
Where on You I must depend.
Though I glory in the mountain top,
The valley is my friend.

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Place Of Growth

In this "hurry-up" generation
Patience is of short duration.
Most don't want to make commitment
Nor for service will consent.

In service we must stretch and grow
And change of thinking undergo.
Most would rather look away
And spend their time some other way.

Service is a place of growth.....
A place which we must never loathe.
When we go there we will learn
Humility and deep concern.

Our perspective will be new.
Rich understanding will accrue.
We shouldn't falter or ask "Why?",
But serve in love and self deny.

No greater blessing can be found,
For surely here does love abound.....
Taking time to serve another,
Neighbor, friend, boss or brother.

"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others."
Philippians 2:3-4 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Gold Within

Seeds of gold were planted
In his heart so long ago.
Hidden deep within,
They would prosper and would grow.

He guarded what was planted
And he let it have it's way,
For he treasured what was there
And he wanted it to stay.

It caused him to shine brightly
As the years have drifted by.
The gold that lives within his heart
You simply can't deny.

His life was being changed
As the gold just grew and grew.
The treasure that was birthed within
Now radiates clear through.

For he has followed Jesus,
Looking neither left nor right.
And now the gold within him
Is radiant and bright!

"But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the
glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same
image from glory to glory, just as by the Sprit of the Lord."
II Corinthians 3:18 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Spirit's Voice

How precious just to find a place
Where we can quiet be.....
To think about our loving God
And all His beauty see.

But we're bombarded every day
With so much "noise and din",
It's hard to pay attention
To the Spirit's voice within.

It's time to push the "pressure" back
And turn the "noise" down low,
So that we may hear His voice
And His direction know.

We cannot mine the golden depths
Which God would have us see
Unless we draw near to His side
In sweet simplicity.

He is our refuge and our strength,
Our "Captain" and our Guide,
And in the days just up ahead
In Him we will abide.

"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!"
Psalm 46:10 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Prophecy

TSUNAMI OF PRAYER
A Prophecy - June 15, 2006

Tsunamis happen deep within..... they happen when there is a "shaking" deep within, and they have much power to "wash" across a land.

When something happens "deep within" a community, it isn't necessarily seen as it is happening. But the ramifications of it are felt in the community, and there is a "jarring" that takes place.

Evil is birthed in darkness, but it is felt enormously as it surfaces. We must establish a prayer base deep within the community to offset the tides of evil and to stabilize the land. Wherever there is shaking deep within, let the "shaking" be one of prayer.

God is shaking His church from within..... that a wave of prayer might wash across our land.

* * * * *

CARRY THE TORCH
A Prophecy - June 15, 2006

The Body of Christ needs to stop "taking aim" at one another, for wounded soldiers cannot stand, nor can they war as they should.

Wherever the torch of Christianity is being carried, the runners need to grab the torch and run with it. Carry the light! Carry the light in darkness! Don't let the flame go out!

Be glad to receive the torch from the hand of the other runner, whoever he may be, for then the Light will not fail!

No runner can run the whole race. It will take the strength of many to reach the goal.

* * * * *

AWAKE, O CHURCH
A Prophecy - June 15, 2006

Awake, O Church, for this is your time to move! Stand up and receive your commission! God has given you the keys. He has prepared you and He has enabled you to be ready in this hour.

Stand up! Shake off your slumber. Come into formation and stand ready to march. When God moves, be prepared to move with Him!

* * * * *

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Worry

Worry is an ugly critter.
We shouldn't be it's babysitter!
What good is worry anyway?
It never will our fears allay.

Worry is a constant nag
And makes a happy spirit sag.
It robs and steals our energy
And keeps our minds from being free.

It fusses, frets and just won't rest.
Repeats itself and is a pest!
We can't allow this pest to stay
So we will walk in faith and pray.

When we're feeling very stressed
The Lord will give us perfect rest.
In trusting Him we find release.....
That blessed place where there is peace.

"Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food and the body more than clothing? But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you."
Matthew 6:25 & 33 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Fabric Of The Heart

Many threads are woven
In the fabric of a heart.
All of life's experiences
Contribute and are part.

Over time the fabric forms
A pattern of it's own,
And laced within the fabric
Is all the heart has known.

Love and kindness weave a cloth
Of worth..... and inner beauty sew.
The way the heart responds in life
Will cause the threads to show.

"The heart of the wise teaches his mouth and adds learning to his lips. Pleasant words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the bones."
Proverbs 16:23-24 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Victory's Song

Victory's sweet song is simple to sing,
But from battles hard fought will maturity spring.
For without coming through some struggles or fire
We are not molded as God would desire.

He sometimes allows us to walk through the flame
So we will grow and not be the same.
As we trust in Him and His leading obey,
He then will guide us each step of the way.

There is no victory if there is no test.
Victory comes when we are hard-pressed.
Each challenge we meet will bring us up higher.
It is then we can sing in victory's choir!

"Beloved, do not think it strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened to you; but rejoice to the extent that you partake of Christ's sufferings, that when His glory is revealed, you may also be glad with exceeding joy."
I Peter 4:12-13 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Senior Moments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It's a good season!

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Beautiful Hands

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

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

Where Am I Going?

I realize that what I know
Won't get me where I need to go.
I ponder and I hesitate,
And when unsure..... procrastinate.

But as I lean on Christ the Lord,
He'll guide my feet and lead me toward
The goal that He has planned for me.....
(Which by myself I could not see).

I have assurance every day,
In knowing He will light my way.
He gives me strength for each new task,
Even before I think to ask.

Though trials and pain may come my way,
I know that by my side He'll stay.
He'll help me find His very best
And keep me in His perfect rest.

As I walk with Him each day.....
Surely I will find my way.


"You will show me the path of life; in Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore."
Psalm 16:11 NKJ

© 2005 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

Mirrors

The mirrors of the soul,
when filled with the Spirit of God,
reflect myriad colors and dimensions.....

Rich hues and glistening light.....
beyond what the mind comprehends.

As His Spirit moves within a life,
that life is as a living, revolving, glass ball
with many facets of light.....

Beautiful to see.....
A kaleidoscope of God's glory
resting there and causing change.

The beauty of the Lord in residence.....


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

© 2004 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

The Daily News

When we turn on the news
We're bombarded with trouble
And shaken by scenes
Of destruction and rubble.

We see people suffering
With no place to go.
Those who lost loved ones
With grief are bent low.

And then we hear those
Who point fingers and bicker,
When working together would
Get things done quicker!

This we can do.....
With much prayer intercede
For those people who lead
And for people in need.

For our God will help them
This time to get through.
He will strengthen and lead them
To know what to do.

"Give ear, O Lord, to my prayer;
And attend to the voice of my supplications.
In the day of my trouble I will call upon You,
For You will answer me."
Psalm 86:6 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Old Church Choir

Singing in the old church choir
And praising as we sang along,
We became a family.
Our hearts were joined in song.

Worshipping in harmony,
Blending voices with each other,
We learned to listen carefully
And be in tune with one another.

Rehearsing for each Sunday morn,
We were always very blessed.
Preparing worship to our Lord,
Love for God our hearts expressed.

We didn't have a fancy band
Or drums, guitar and 'lectric bass,
But praised Him with uplifted voice.
His glory shone on every face.

Sometimes I stopped singing
Just to hear the other voices.
Even now as I look back
In memory my heart rejoices!

"Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing."
Psalm 100:2 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Thankful Heart

A thankful heart is very blessed,
For deep within are joy and rest.
It always sees the brighter side
And by God's love is satisfied.

It doesn't struggle or pay heed
To every little hurt or need,
But knows God surely will provide,
And so in Him it will abide.

This heart has come to understand
That all we have is from God's hand.
It counts it's blessings every day.....
In big and little, in every way.

".....Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ....."
Ephesians 6:29 NKJ

2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Joy

LORD.....

You bring the laughter in my day.....

Your joy is as rippling waters in a brook.....
Waters traveling happily on their way downstream.....
Light-hearted, delightful.....

Waters which bubble up and over stones and obstacles
And are not troubled.....
They do not look back.....

Waters singing freely as they travel to their destination.....
A happy stream flowing through my day.....

"He who is of a merry heart has a continual feast."
Proverbs 15:15b 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

The Signature Of God

His Personal Touch..... Written all around us.....

A ray of sunlight..... breaking through the clouds......

Wild flowers on a hillside.... where no one planted them.....

A rainbow in the sky... appearing between sun and rain.....

The brilliance of a sunrise.....
or.....
The rich colors of a sunset.....
(Man has no paintbrush to equal this.....)

The melodic sound of a little bird singing.....
(How does so much sound come out of a tiny, feathered friend?)

The brilliant color in the fragile, paper-thin wing of a butterfly.....

The fragrance of a flower..... and the velvety feel of its petals.....

A dormant tree suddenly transformed into
A sea of fluffy blossoms and fragrance in spring.....

A fuzzy bumble bee visiting a flower for nectar.....
Then flying away to make honey.....

Seeds..... tiny seeds which grow into "plants" so big that
We can sit in the shade under them on a hot day.....

The wind..... and the power of His presence.....


"How excellent is Your name in all the earth....."
Psalm 8:1 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Mailman's Dog

Pixie was the mailman's dog. He didn't own her, but she chose him as her favorite person. Every morning when he went out to his mail route she would be waiting for him by his mail storage box. There was a bench there, and she would sit under the bench and wait.

He really couldn't chase her off, so he just let her follow along as he delivered the mail. He delivered on foot, carrying the mail in a leather bag on his shoulder. His route was in a very hilly, steep area, so he would deliver mail downhill and then ride the bus back up to the top to get more mail out of his storage box. He did this several times each day.

When Pixie first started following him she would get left behind each time he got on the bus. The bus driver saw her in his rear view mirror, running up the hill behind the bus. He felt sorry for her, so he said she could ride on the bus if the mailman would put her in his mailbag. She rode nicely, sitting up in the bag with her little front paws over the edge. And she got much attention from the passengers on the bus.

Lunchtime was fun too. The mailman ate lunch at the fire station and played chess with the firemen. Pixie had good manners and would just sit up and wait quietly by his side the whole time. So he bought milk bones for her so she could have some lunch too.

Pixie had her problems in bad weather. She was an Aberdeen Terrier, and because her legs were quite short, when it snowed the snow would cling to the fur on her belly in a big lump and she would get so she couldn't walk because of it. So the mailman took her all the way home because he felt sorry for her. But as soon as she thawed out and could sneak out the door, she would hunt him down and be right back out there with him. She was very loyal to him.

She was actually a good help for him many times. A lot of the home owners had watch dogs, and Pixie would distract the other dogs long enough that the mailman could deliver the mail and go on to the next house without worrying about a dog chasing him or trying to bite him.

Pixie became newsworthy when a reporter for the Oregon Journal became aware of her relationship with the mailman. The Journal printed several pictures and a large article about her in one of their Sunday papers, and then there were two more articles after that.

After a few years of this wonderful relationship, the mailman was promoted in his work and moved to a mail route in the downtown area. This was good for him because he would be inside office buildings and wouldn't have to be out in the weather anymore. But for Pixie it was a very sad day..... She had lost her very best friend.

© 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 Prayer For Our Nation

A tired people, worn and weary,
Praying, standing..... in travail.
Hear our prayer and heal our nation.
Let truth be known and light prevail.

Protect our country, we beseech Thee,
Help us stand and not make error.
As darkness threatens to destroy us,
Strengthen us and hear our prayer.

Guide our leaders, keep them strong.
Let them seek to know Your way,
May they always use Your wisdom
Every hour throughout the day.

Quench the fires of hate and turmoil
Stirred within by evil men.
Help us, Lord, to work together,
In Jesus' Name we pray, Amen.

"Therefore, I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers,
intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a
quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence."
I Timothy 2:1-2 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Mosaic Of God's Purpose

A Prophecy
May 25, 2006

God is positioning His people in the Body to accomplish His purpose. As we are sensitive to His leading, He will establish us and set patterns for our lives. To walk in these patterns is to find and fulfill our greatest potential in Him.

If we do not understand our "assignment", (or may not even like it), we must remember that His design is always one of great beauty. He uses His people to create a mosaic of priceless worth. To be any part of His mosaic is a very great privilege.

Serving our awesome God..... at whatever level..... is the highest honor and calling we can have and is one which we should treasure with great joy.

"For My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways My ways,"
says the Lord. "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are
My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts."
Isaish 55:8-9 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happiness

Live simply..... love much..... know Jesus.

Live fruitfully..... give much..... bless Jesus.

Live honestly..... work hard..... serve Jesus.

Live purely..... honor God..... love Jesus.

Live humbly..... be thankful..... worship Jesus.

Live wisely..... pray much..... seek Jesus.


"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall
never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand."
John 10:27-28 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Safe Abode

Wisdom is a firm foundation
A pleasant place to make abode.
She will never change or tarnish,
Nor can time her strength erode.

In her house is understanding.....
Knowledge of the Holy One.
As we live within her shelter,
We will learn about God's Son.

Wisdom will watch over us,
Crying out when we make error.
She'll always guide us back to truth
And be our constant standard-bearer.

She is faithful, she is strong,
Able to discern all wrong.
Her fruit is better than fine gold.
Riches and honor to her belong.

"Happy is the man who finds wisdom, and the man who gains understanding; for her proceeds are better than the profits of silver and her gain than fine gold."
Proverbs 2:13 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Rhymes And Good Times

When in my mind I hear a "jingle".....
And thoughts and words just start to mingle.....
Then words and phrases start to rhyme.....
I'm really having a very good time!

I run to get my paper and pen.
The "urge" to write is here again!
It's just great fun to pen a story
Or write a poem to give God glory!

Words flow morning, noon and night,
So every day I find delight!
I thank God for each precious line
And pray through me His light will shine.


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Fruit Of Fine Gold

The fruit of the Spirit
Is as very fine gold.....
A much-desired treasure.....
Not bought and not sold.

As we walk in the Spirit
It's fruit will be learned.
As we love one another
It may be discerned.

For it will be found
In our actions each day,
And will bring good reward
As we practice it's way.

We never could pay
What this rare fruit is worth,
But our lives will be rich
As we let it have birth.

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control....."
Galatians 5:22 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Hope

Lord, You are as.....

A lighthouse on the shores of difficulty.....
A beacon of light in the night.....
A ray of hope streaming forth..... unwavering.....

A haven from the storms of life.....
where I may take refuge.....

A safe place.....
where I may find peace and rest, and
where I find warmth and comfort.....

You are my Hope and my Shelter.....

Jesus, my Lord


"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen
your heart, all you who hope in the Lord."
Psalm 31:24 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Soil Of The Heart

A Prophecy
May 14, 2006


God wants to till the soil of our hearts in preparation to make a fresh planting.....

His tilling process will loosen up the hard ground. And if there are bitter roots or weeds or foreign plants trying to sprout, His fine tilling will discover and uncover them and root them out.

Some hearts may never have been tilled. Or maybe for some the soil has been dormant for a long time. Maybe for some, the tilling has only been shallow because the heart wasn't "ready" or willing to be finely tilled.

As we allow Him to till, the soil of our hearts is then ready to receive His new planting. That which He sows, as it is revered and allowed to flourish and is tended to, will become our richest purpose for this season.

God wants to bring His people to fruition. In this will we find our greatest joy.


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Song Of Joy

A life filled with song is a life filled with beauty and rich expression. Oftentimes a lovely melody can encompass a range of emotions which man has no ability to speak, but which deeply touches the heart. To sing or play an instrument, or just to listen to music, increases one's ability to express or feel life itself in a greater dimension..... to know a deeper joy.

As one has a desire to worship God, the melody becomes fine-tuned and creative and sensitive.... and soon there is communion with our Lord and King, bringing joy and rest and deep peace.

Beautiful worship can touch and change a heart..... or bring healing to a weary soul.....

God is the Master Composer and can sponsor music in the heart which is beyond our understanding in the scope of its beauty. To praise our awesome God is the highest and fullest expression of song.....

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Mirrors

The mirrors of the soul,
when filled with the Spirit of God,
reflect myriad colors and dimensions.....

Rich hues and glistening light.....
beyond what the mind comprehends.

As His Spirit moves within a life,
that life is as a living, revolving, glass ball
with many facets of light.....

Beautiful to see.....
A kaleidoscope of God's glory
resting there and causing change.

The beauty of the Lord in residence.....


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

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Home Is Built

A house is built with wood and stone,
But it doesn't just become a home.
A home is built with love and care
By those who fill its rooms with prayer.

Day by day its strength is formed
As prayer by prayer its rooms are warmed.
Wisdom is its strong foundation,
Its walls are praise and celebration.

As fellowship and love abound,
Joy and laughter oft resound.
When happy hearts in God agree
The home is strong in unity.

A house just built with wood and stone
Will never quite become a home
Until its rooms are filled with love
As given from the Father above.

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Fuzzy Little Bumble Bee

A Children's Poem

Little fuzzy bumble bee,
How I wish that I could see
Just how you make me honey sweet.
Honey is my favorite treat!

How do you make that sound I hear -
A buzzing sound upon my ear?
And when I see you fly away,
I wonder how you know the way.

Little fuzzy bumbly friend,
Does your day's work ever end?
Please come back and visit me.....
I'm glad God made you, little bee.

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Smiles

A smile is as the gentle brush stroke
of an artist.....

Beauty painted from within
And reflected outward
To grace the countenance.....
And to bless another.

Your smile may be the sunlight
In someone's rainy day.


"A merry heart makes a cheerful countenance....."
Proverbs 15:13 NKJ

© 2004 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

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

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

The Heart Of The Body

A Vision and Prophecy
May 11, 2006


I "see" hard spots which have formed in hearts. These are the hearts of people, but what I am seeing also represents the "heart" of the Body of Christ. The Body of Christ has "hard spots".

God wants to pinpoint (identify) and change each hard spot in our hearts because the hard spots are causing the heart of the Body of Christ to malfunction. And He wants a healthy Body. Where there is resistance against His cleansing, He will expose the offending areas as a means of further trying to bring correction to the problem before He must bring judgment. There is a timing involved in this..... a short time..... before He will move, for He must move forward.

We have opportunity now to correct what He shows us. We must not resist but move quickly to respond to His calling. He is very merciful and will not expose us if we give heed to His call.

©2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Best Friend

All my thoughts are turned to You
To learn Your ways and know Your heart.
Throughout the day I wait on You
Fresh revelation to impart.

For You are Life and You are Light,
The answer for my every need.
Strength and purpose found in You
Will help me prosper and succeed.

I cannot walk through life alone.
I wouldn't even try.
For You alone direct my path.
Only You can satisfy.

You are my lifeline..... my best friend!
I long to hear Your voice,
That I might have a deeper walk.
What reason to rejoice!

"For You have been my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I will rejoice. My whole being follows hard after You and clings closely to You."
Psalm 63:7-8 Amplified Bible

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hope

I find that as I serve my God,
Each weary step my foot must trod
Is lightened by His love and grace.
I know my strength He will replace.

No matter what the burden is,
The battle isn't mine, but His.
I do not need to "fight" alone
Or by myself face the unknown.

When I can't see, He knows my way.
Therefore I lean on Him each day.
For He makes order out of chaos
And restores what may be loss.

He takes my struggles and dismay
And washes weariness away.
His love restores and helps me cope.
In Him I will rejoice and hope!

"Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart,
all you who hope in the Lord."
Psalm 32:24 NKJ

© 2006 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

Wisdom

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Think On These Things

When your spirit starts to sag
And daily musings tend to nag,
Remember all the Lord's good things
And feel your spirit take on wings.

If you don't focus as you should,
The bad things will o'erwhelm the good.
So daily choose a pleasant thought
And focus on what God has wrought.

It may not be an easy day,
But Jesus' light will chase away
All the worry, all the fear,
And fill your heart with joy and cheer.

In your bank of memories store
How He blessed you o'er and o'er.
Collect these thoughts as hidden treasure
And they will give abundant pleasure.

"Whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy - meditate on these things."
Philippians 4:8 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Sweet Little Child

The heart of a child is tender indeed,
And needs to be nurtured when he is in need.
For how will he face what to him is unknown
If he is not helped and just left all alone?

When he is loved his courage will grow.
His sense of well-being in his countenance will show.
He will be happy and willing to learn
If all those around him show loving concern.

Each little life is a wonderful treasure,
And when taken good care of will bring us much pleasure.
For how can we not love a sweet little child
Whose heart is so open and tender and mild?

"Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord....."
Psalm 127:3 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Old Fir Tree

Once there was an old, old tree. And it had stood for many years, enduring storms and drought, wind and weather..... and broken limbs.....

Over the years many had gathered around its base and rested in its shade. Many found a place of refuge in its shadow. The tree was a symbol of strength, and its roots reached very deep.

It did not lose its leaves or have a season of rest, as some trees do, but was always green and stately and beautiful. The sound of the wind in its branches was soothing and restful.

I have known people whose lives are like that of the old tree..... who stand for long periods of time..... unwavering in their positions. They have strong foundations, and their lives are examples of deep strength and encouragement for others. They do not waver, though storms may threaten.

And even when they are old and "weathered", they are unchanged. By their steadfastness they are a glorious inspiration to many.....


"Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, and whose hope is the Lord. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters, which spreads out its roots by the river, and will not fear when heat comes; but its leaf will be green, and will not be anxious in the year of drought, nor will cease from yielding fruit."
Jeremiah 17:7-8 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy Birthday, Mom

"In tribute to my mother, Elsie Franzel, who is celebrating her 100th birthday today".....

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

A Gift From God

Each day is a gift from God.
Grab it and run!
Decide to do something great with it!

It is opportunity in your hands.

Each day look up.
Each day look forward.
These things we can do even when
standing in place.

Grow. Expand.
Never stop learning.
Never stop reaching out.

And by this God will enrich your life
and cause you to find new treasure.

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is
from above, and comes down from the Father
of lights, with whom there is no variation
or shadow of turning."
James 1:17 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Grace Is .....

.....Encouragement to win the race when we are tempted to
to quit.
.....A full measure provided when we only see half a measure.
.....The helping hand extended to pick us up when we have
stumbled or fallen.

.....His covering in a harsh and unyielding world.
.....Strength in the midst of weariness.
.....Sustenance in the midst of affliction.

.....Long-term when we are short-term
.....The ability to do more than we think we can.
.....The courage to function when in pain.

.....The ability to be strong in the face of weakness.
.....A resting place when we've stood for a long time.

.....An unfinished list, because.....
Grace is always more.

"And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance of every good work."
II Corinthians 9:8 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Treasure In Unexpected Places

When I see another person,
I wonder what lies within.
There may not be an outward clue
From age or size or color of skin.

Clothing, makeup, "class" or "style"
Are shallow coverings and give no hint,
For hidden in the plainest soul
Is the secret of God's blueprint.

The quiet wealth and great potential
Of His creative hand
At first glance are not seen or heard....
To know what things He planned.

All too often in life we pass
A treasure of pure gold,
And fail to see the beauty
Of that precious life unfold.

The loss is ours as we pass by
And hurry on our way.
God might have wanted to bless us,
Had we paused a moment to stay.

Ours might have been the cheerful note
So needed to uplift
And encourage that other person
To discover his own gift.

The lowliest soul or saddest neighbor
Could very wealthy be.
And maybe God desires to use him....
Even more than me...

Lord, help me to adjust my vision
And see as You would see....
To not look down upon another
But always humble be.

"Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit,
but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better
than himself. Let each of you look out not only for
his own interests, but also for the interests of others."
Philippians 2:3 4 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf