The Real Christmas

Christmas is not meant to be
A time which centers on thee and me,
But is a time when we recall
What God has done for each and all.

God sent Jesus down to earth.
Focus on His wondrous birth!
Rejoice in what our God has done!
He gave us Jesus Christ, His Son.

Christmas really is about
The birth of Christ. Rejoice and shout!
For God has done a glorious thing!
Carols sing and worship bring!

"Then the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid, for behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be the sign to you: You will find a Babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, 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 2:10-14 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Compassionate Touch

In this time of gifts and giving,
Help someone who has a need.....
One who is less fortunate
And would be very blessed indeed.

For if you reach out to just one
And give a very special gift,
Think how "huge" that gift would be
And how it surely would "uplift".

When you give unto the poor
The blessings you bring will be much.
The Lord will fill them with His joy.
You, too, will feel His special touch.

".....He that hath mercy on the poor, happy is he."
Proverbs 14:21 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Daily Prayer

As I go through life
And enter each day,
Lord, help me to know
What to do and to say.

I sometimes don't realize
When I have made error.
Forgive me, Dear Lord,
If I've sinned unaware.

Help me to guard
All my actions each day,
And always stay humble
Lest pride has it's way.

Show me, Dear Lord,
If I may have failed,
That I might see clearly
And keep nothing "veiled".

"Who can understand his errors? Cleanse thou me from secret faults. Keep back thy servant also from presumptuous sins; let them not have dominion over me: then shall I be upright, and I shall be innocent from the great transgression."
Psalm 19:12-13 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Christmas Lights

One year at Christmas time our family became aware of an older couple who were very poor. He was ill and somewhat disabled, so she would work at odd jobs to try to earn a little money here and there, but they didn't have enough.

Our children were in grade school, and we didn't have much extra, but I was moved that we needed to do something to bring the joy of Christmas to this couple.

So I went to the nursery and bought a small Christmas tree (about three feet tall), Then I suggested to our children that we should look through our Christmas decorations and choose some light strings and ornaments to put on the tree. Having done that, we set out to go visit this couple.

When we arrived at their door, they were totally surprised. We set up the tree, and the children decorated it for them. They were delighted just to have children come to see them. My mom gave them a small gift, and they were thrilled because the man needed a watch and now he would be able to get one.

It didn't seem like we had done much, but to this couple it meant really a lot. They had not had a Christmas tree for many years, and their apartment wasn't a cheerful place at all. (It simply was all they could afford). The colored twinkle lights on the tree seemed to transform the whole situation, and the fact that we had come lifted them up when they were really down.

This only took one afternoon of our time, but afterwards we were so glad that we had done it.

"But he who has mercy on the poor, happy is he."
Proverbs 14:21 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Christmas Rush

Weary from shopping, all worn out?
Is this what Christmas is about?
Every year we overdo.
This situation needs review!

It really doesn't make much sense
To rush around and make expense.
We should not be obligated
To do what others have dictated.

Jesus is the real reason
That we celebrate this season.
As we're reminded of His birth
Christmas finds it's real worth.

Christmas is a special time
When we hear choirs, bells and chime,
Sounding forth to hail His name
And His wondrous birth proclaim.

Worship Him in celebration!
Bring Him praise and adoration!
Focus on the real reason
To celebrate the Christmas season.

"For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."
Isaiah 9:6 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heaven-Sent

The young woman went to the grocery store to shop, and while there she repeatedly encountered a little gray-haired lady, who also was shopping.

The gray-haired lady would pick up items from the bottom shelves (where the lower-priced items are), look at them and put them back. Even though the young woman criss-crossed the store a few times because of items she had forgotten to pick up, she continued to bump into the little older lady. She began to notice that the older lady had only a few things in the upper part of her shopping cart.

When the young woman got to the check-out she realized that the older lady was right behind her in line. The checker rang up the young woman's groceries and then asked, "Is there anything else for you?"

The young woman was moved, and she said, "Yes, I want to pay for this lady's groceries." (She was very troubled because the older lady had so few items).

The checker added those few items to the receipt and then handed the receipt to the young woman, at which point she began to sob uncontrollably. She ran from the store so no one would notice, but when she got home she was still sobbing and could not get over the thought of that little lady. She could not stop sobbing, and commented, "I don't know what this is. I guess God is dealing with my pride....."

Nor did she get over it in the days to come. After she went home she thought about all the things she owned, and then would think again about the little lady, whose cart contained so few things. God changed her that day. He spoke into her life through a little gray-haired angel in the supermarket. He intercepted her path..... to change her perspective and humble her.

Yes, God does still speak, and He still sends angels..... to accomplish His purpose.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Lives That Count

The things that we do seem important to us.....
But some may be trivial and use our time thus.
We have busy schedules which we try to keep,
And sometimes don't even allow for good sleep.

But often the sum of the things which we do
May not have much worth as we look in review.
It isn't hard to stay busy each day,
And matters "press in" which will rob time away.

To find what is best we can seek God and pray,
For He will then guide us and help us to weigh
Whether our choices have worthy import.
Some may be good, while some "come up short".

To find His great purpose and be in His will
Will further His kingdom and our lives fulfill.
In Him there is treasure in endless amount.
When we find His plan, then our lives will "count".


"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:19-21 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Pretty Coat

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

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

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

God knows all about our needs and wants. He knows our every thought.

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Integrity

Integrity sees with clear-cut vision,
Living truth with great precision.
It doesn't waver in it's stance,
Nor will it "sleep" or "take a chance".

It's house is built on firm foundation
And garners highest admiration.
It won't be shaken or deceived
But can be trusted and believed.

It faces issues on a plane
Which has no shadow, mark or stain.
Integrity does not bow down,
For strength and honor are it's crown.

"But as for me, I will walk in mine integrity....."
Psalm 26:11 KJV

"The integrity of the upright shall guide them....."
Proverbs 11:3 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Christmas Isn't Christmas

Christmas isn't Christmas
Without the name of Christ.
But now the stores are gearing up
To make their "holiday" heist!

The birth of Christ is now and ever
A most remarkable event.
To simply have a "holiday"
Should not at all be our intent.

Jesus is the world's pure Light,
Outshining man's ability
To make a worthy holiday season
With "tinsel" plausibility.

Christmastime will always be
A time to celebrate Christ's birth.
It isn't just a "holiday"
But a time of praise throughout the earth.


"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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Stained Glass

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


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


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


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

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


© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

"Band-Aids" Don't Work

Life's daily struggles oft need "a quick fix".
And we have a "bag" of solutions and tricks
Whereby we can deal with the problem at hand,
Go on with our day and hopefully "stand".

But sometimes the problem persists and comes back,
With possible focus to keep us off track.
We cannot place "band-aids" on this kind of woe
But must face up to facts... or maybe say "no".

This may require change, but change will be good
When the factors are dealt with and well understood.
Shunning a problem... not facing it's "end"...
Just makes matters worse, and your time it will spend.

In dealing with problems we surely will grow.
As we read the Word needed answers we'll know.
All of life's problems are not really new,
But as we seek God He will carry us through.

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Moment Of Truth

What could be more delightful than a little grandson with a great big smile?

One day I was going to meet my son and grandson for lunch. As I drove into the parking lot they were waiting for me. My grandson was waving and had a smile as big as all outdoors. As I parked my car he ran over to open the door for me. Then he coiled up the seatbelt because it didn't retract properly. Next he offered me his little hand to help me get out of the car. (It struck me how thin his little arm was). I took his extended hand as I got out, thanking him as I did. Then he closed the door for me.

After all this, he turned to his dad and commented with a bright smile, "We're supposed to help the old ones."

I could hardly contain my laughter as my son was trying to tell him it's not polite to say someone is old. But it was okay. To him I AM old! And he was practicing his latest skills in manners.

I laugh every time I think of this. This little guy brings much laughter to my life..... he makes me feel YOUNG when I'm around him.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Godly Design

As we seek the Lord He will help us to find
Our heavenly purpose which He had in mind.
Each life has worth which in God is unique.
When we are in tune with Him, our lives will "speak".

When one does not know what his own "mold" might be,
He will constantly wonder why he is not "free".
He may run, he may hide..... but it won't do much good
Until he fits into God's mold as he should.

Each life has a purpose..... a Godly design.
Each life has a mold..... a blueprint divine.
God "hides" in each life His heavenly treasure,
That we might prosper and bring Him great pleasure.


"Let them shout for joy, and be glad, that favour my righteous cause: yea, let them say continually, Let the Lord be magnified, which hath pleasure in the prosperity of his servant."
Psalm 35:27 KJV

"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In His Time

We sometimes "rush in" to do all Your will
But maybe should wait and simply be still.
You give us the skills and give us the tools,
But if we don't wait we may be as fools.

You"ready" our hearts and teach us to pray,
That we might be careful in Your will to stay.
You keep us from error and guard all our ways.
As we rest in You, You "hold" all our days.

But then when we're ready and Your time is right,
You shoot us as arrows Your battles to fight.
Victories will come by the work of Your hand
As we trust in You and quietly "stand".


"Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him....."
Psalm 37:7 KJV

"The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord."
Lamentations 3:25 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Too Quickly Gone

Thanksgiving Day has come and gone,
But I'm not ready to move on.
I simply want to linger here,
Not let Thanksgiving disappear.

Too quickly is it pushed aside
In favor of the "holiday" tide.
It's truly sad that our great God
Sometimes barely gets a "nod".

I don't want to see it go,
I want more time my thanks to show,
To worship Him Who helps us stand.
All we have is from His hand!

So I'll complete my worship "season"
And will not rush... for very good reason.
I'll savor times of worship sweet.
Thanksgiving then will be complete.

"I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving."
Psalm 69:30 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Staying Tuned

Lord, help my eyes to clearly see.
Let my ears hear ALL You say.
Help my spirit to discern
Your truth and always to obey.

I do not want to fall or stumble,
Or "miss the mark" in any way.
But only by Your guiding hand
Can I within Your watchcare stay.

For my own flesh would surely fail.
My mind would wander far astray.
Daily cares would pull me down
And all my thoughts would quickly sway.

But when I read Your Holy Word
And all Your beauty I survey,
My life is changed and so much blessed,
I know I've found a better way.

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."
Psalm 119:11 KJV

"Thy testimonies also are my delight and my counsellors."
Psalm 119:24 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Pilgrims' Story

Pilgrims came wanting freedom,
Ventured out far to roam,
Seeking for to worship Jesus,
Left their land and left their home.

Pilgrims came, torn and weary,
Suffering for freedom's cause,
Brave of heart and strong of conscience,
Blazing truth, changed history's course.

Do we stand, as the pilgrims?
Have we giv'n as much as they?
Can the coming generations
Look at us, thanksgiving pray?

Pilgrims we? Are we ready
To be brave, to be strong?
Are we building roads for Jesus?
Making strides against all wrong?

Oh, that we would all be pilgrims,
Standing for what we believe,
Sacrificing even a little
That our country might stay free.

"You have given a banner to those who fear You, that it may be displayed because of the truth."
Psalm 60:4 NKJ

© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

This I Know

A Song

This I know, You are there.
This I know, You hear my prayer.
And I know how much You care.
This I know, this I know.

You said You'd never leave me,
You'd be there by my side.
In my deepest, darkest hour
With me You did abide.

It was then I heard You whisper
And tell me I'm Your own.
And I felt Your hand upon me
And heard You say, "You're not alone".

"Child, I know, I was there.
Child, I know, I heard your prayer.
Want to tell you that I care.
This I know, I love you so.

Want to tell you that I care.
This I know, this I know."

"I will never leave you nor forsake you."
Hebrews 13:5 KJV

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Thanksgiving Thoughts

Thanksgiving brings reminder of God's abundant blessing,
And pilgrims coming from afar, their love of God expressing.
They did not quit or "give up ship" because of hardship's "press",
But stood for freedom valiantly, enduring constant stress.

The first few years were bleak and hard..... they paid a very high cost,
And as they suffered in the cold, precious lives were lost.
They labored and stood firm in faith, believing in their cause,
Planting seeds for this great nation..... We give them applause!

Thank You, God, for those dear folk who came upon our shore.
The memory of who they were we never should ignore.
They gave up all they had and knew to worship and be free.
Help us be as strong as they..... Help us, Lord, to see!


Let us come before his presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms."
Psalm 95:2 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Best Answer

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Reaching Out

A Thanksgiving Story

Oftentimes, if we look around a little, we can find people with great need right on our doorstep.....

In our neighborhood there was a big old house which had been divided into apartments. There was a kindly gentleman, an older man, who lived there by himself and was very poor.

We were talking one day, as Thanksgiving was approaching, and he commented that he was going to buy a can of pumpkin so that he could taste it on Thanksgiving, because he hadn't had pumpkin pie for a long time. It broke my heart to think that that was going to be the extent of his Thanksgiving dinner. So my parents invited him to come have Thanksgiving dinner with us. Now no one could cook a better turkey than my mom could! Her dinners were always a treat and complete with all the trimmings!

When dinner was ready, she sliced a lot of meat and placed it on a large platter. Also, she placed one whole turkey leg there. We sat down to eat, and as the food was being passed, Mr. H. looked longingly at the turkey platter. He looked at the sliced meat and he looked at the turkey leg, which was large. We knew he wanted the leg, but he was too polite to take it. So Mom told him to take it - and then he did..... with a big smile.

During dinner he began to share his story with us. In 1944 he had done something for which he had spent a short time in jail. His family had disowned him and he had not seen them since. He paid his dues, but his family was gone. He had been completely alone ever since.

It was 1959, and this was the first Thanksgiving dinner he had eaten since 1944.....

How rewarding it is to reach out to others.....

"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in. Inasmuch as you did it
to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35, 40b NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Instrument Of Worship

A Vision

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

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

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

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

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Think Happy Thoughts

When the sky is all grey and it threatens to rain,
Think happy thoughts to make gloominess wane.
What good does it do to moan and complain?
It won't help your day or happiness attain.

Look on the bright side and chase those old "blues".
Negative thoughts and sadness refuse!
When you think it through, there is always GOOD news.
You have the power over which thoughts to choose.

Smile on the outside..... wear a big grin!
When you choose to look up, you will soon smile within.
Let joy fill your day and cause you to win
Over gloom and the "blues" and their woe-begone kin!

"Whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things."
Philippians 4:8 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Very Present Help

Lord, I am so grateful to You. When I was weary, You saw my need..... and You helped me.....

It was late when we arrived at the emergency room, and there were many waiting for care, so I realized it might take a little time before I would get back home. As the night wore on into the wee hours... 12:00 and 1:00 and 2:00 a.m., I grew concerned, for I needed to get up early the next day.

Three o'clock came. I tried to doze, sitting in the waiting room. Finally, around 4:00 a.m., I was able to leave. I knew I would only get two hours' sleep, and that was not good.

The following morning my body was so-o-o tired. The work I needed to do lay before me, and I didn't know how I would get through the day. But I set out anyway, not really confident of my own ability at that point.

Halfway through the morning I felt my body begin to "sag down" from fatigue. Suddenly, as that was happening, I felt like something was touching my back and rib cage, almost like some sort of framework. I waited, but it didn't move. And as I waited a little longer, it still didn't move. And then I realized that the Lord was steadying and literally supporting me. His hand was upon me. I could feel the strength of His hand.

Not only was I able to get through the morning but was able to complete my entire day. The Lord had lifted me up out of my fatigue and renewed my strength.

What a gracious God we have!

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In Christ Alone

In Christ alone.....
Do I find my strength.
Do I find light when all seems dark.

For His light does not go out.
And if I will just lift my eyes and look,
I will see His light, shining there before me.

And His light shall illumine my path.
That which seems so lost... in Him will be reachable.

In Christ alone.....
I will be able to stand.

In Christ alone.....
Do I find my strength.

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Time Of Plenty

Thanksgiving time is drawing nigh.....
The season when we glorify
The God of plenty and provision,
Praising Him for what He's given.

A time to give, a time to share,
A time for others' needs to bear,
For many lives have been displaced
As circumstance has laid them waste.

A time for kindness and compassion,
Reaching out in prayerful fashion,
Truly caring from the heart
For those who need a fresh, new start.

A time to give, a time to share,
A time for us to show we care.....
By reaching out in Jesus' Name
We to them God's love proclaim!


"For I was hungry and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in..... Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me."
Matthew 25:35, 40 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Trusting You, Lord

All that You give me is meant for my good.....
For me to use wisely, as I always should.
I should not question the way that You lead
But always be grateful and Your guidance heed.

If what You're saying is puzzling to me,
I choose to trust until Your plan I see.
If you are teaching me through a new task,
Then I want to follow and no questions ask.

The paths where You lead me are all for my growth.
Though some paths are "steep", I'll trust and not loath.
For walking with You through a challenging time
I know I'll find treasure and rich paradigm.


"Shew me thy ways, O Lord; teach me thy paths. Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou are the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day."
Psalm 25:4-5 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Good Reflection

I will choose to praise Your Name
Early in my day.....
Before the daily "grumbles"
Try to find a place to stay.

I will set my mind on You
And hear what You would say.
Then I will rise above those things
That rob my joy away.

What place do problems have for me
Except to pull me down?
I will not even "go there"
For they only make me frown.

I find that when I look to You
I'm able to see clearer.
And at day's end when I reflect,
I see YOU in the mirror.

"I have set the Lord always before me: because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved."
Psalm 16:8 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Veteran's Day

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

The Peace Of The Lord

The peace of the Lord is as.....
Fresh-fallen snow,
Quiet..... still..... undisturbed.

The peace of the Lord takes away.....
Tension,
Anxiety,
Worry.

The peace of the Lord brings.....
Release,
Rest,
Contentment in whatever circumstance.

The peace of the Lord is.....
A Place set apart,
A hiding place,
A sanctuary.

The peace of the Lord is.....
A place of communion and friendship with Him,
Of reassurance,
Of realization that He is always very near.

"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 Brighter Day

A Children's Poem

When you look outside
And the weather is grey,
Let Jesus come in.
He'll brighten your day!

He is the Sunshine,
He is the Light.
He'll lift you right up
And make you feel bright!

There isn't a day
That He cannot make better.
He'll make you want
To become a "go-getter"!

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Heartstrings Of God

Lord, let my life be as music played on the heartstrings of God.....

Beautiful harmonies which heal and make whole,
Sounds of gentleness and tenderness which will touch hearts,
Heavenly sounds which transcend "every day" experience.

Let my life be so in tune with You that my every thought and action
will cause the music to come forth.

Let my life always be a song of praise and worship.

Your are my song.
My heart rejoices in You.


"Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing."
Psalm 100:2 KJV

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

© 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

Proud Of Our Servicemen

To each and every serviceman
We send our prayers and heartfelt thanks,
For you have well defended us
And have "The Best" amongst your ranks!

We are very proud of you
And salute you with respect.
Thank you for your sacrifice
As our freedoms you protect.

May God be with you every hour,
Throughout the day and dark of night.
May He give you victory,
Strength and courage, power and might!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hidden Treasures

The Word of God is full of much treasure.

When I find hidden treasure in the Word,
quickly I want to take it in and hide it in my heart.

I will treasure it there..... and guard it.....
lest it be lost or slip away from me.

And as I keep it in my heart and meditate upon it,
it becomes part of me..... and I am richer.
It will cause me to change from who I am
into who the Lord wants me to be.

I want to be full of the riches of the Word.

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."
Psalm 119:11 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Confusion

Confusion is ugly..... a "robber" of sorts.
It's good to avoid all the problems it courts.
For once it comes in it can spoil the best plan.
And it's hard to make order... if even you can.
There sometimes is loss which cannot be restored,
And often relationships strike a wrong chord.
Misunderstanding is hard to erase,
And unhappy words are hard to displace.
Self-seeking and envy are somtimes involved.
These bring contention which should be resolved.
Planning ahead and then following through
Are two good ideas to really pursue.
Don't let confusion rob God's good intent.
This not-so-nice problem you can prevent.
But if it should happen in spite of it all,
Use wisdom and patience to keep mix-ups small.

"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."
James 3:16 KJV

"For God is not the author of confusion, but of peace....."
I Corinthians 14:33 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Healing Power

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

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

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

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

We truly have an awesome God!

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

On Wings Of A Prayer

What will I write in the book of this day.....
What will be found there? What will it say?
May it's pages be full of good thoughts and good things.....
A record of blessings, of journeys on wings.

On wings of a prayer I can soar very high,
And in worship and praise to my Savior draw nigh.
I can conquer big mountains with Him at my side
And find my direction with His hand to guide.

As I look in my book at my day in review,
All will be different and all will be new.
My page will be written with colorful flair
As I travel today on wings of a prayer.


"Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."
I Thessalonians 5:16-18 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Masks And Facades

Some go through life behind masks and facades,
Hiding their pain and feeling at odds,
Covering their heartaches behind a big smile,
Forging ahead..... while in self-denial.

But with our God we don't need a facade.
He sees our heart and the paths that we trod.
With Him we don't need to put on a mask.
If we have a need, we simply should ask.

We can relax and be just who we are,
And need not pretend if we're not up to par.
What a relief..... and what peace that we have.
His love is as oil and a warm healing salve.

So we can discard all our masks and facades
And exit the ranks of those still at odds.
We have a God Who gives total peace,
Who sees through our masks and gives us release.

".....The Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the
outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart."

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Rest In Jesus (of the Bible)

The peace that He gives is as soft-fallen rain
Which gently replenishes life's daily drain.
The healing He brings in the depths of one's soul
Tenderly washes to change and make whole.

His love is as warmth on a crisp, wintry day,
Like red, glowing embers which drive cold away.
The joy which He gives is a sweet-scented gift.....
As fragrance of myrrh..... to bless and uplift.

"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."
Matthew 11:29 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Sweet Refrain

The people sang a sweet refrain.....
A great old hymn from long ago.
The music flowed in beauteous strain.
It warmed my heart and made tears flow.

How sweet the hymns which have been penned
In worship to our Lord and King,
With words which all my cares transcend
And make me want to praise and sing.

Worshipping in hymn and psalm,
Singing words from ages past,
Brings an inner peace and calm,
And stirs up memories which last.

".....Be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms
and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord....."
Ephesians 5:18-19 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Just One Of Those Days

There just are those days
When you cannot keep up.
And try as you will
You're like a "whipped pup".

The day seems to be
Always two steps ahead
Of where you should be,
And you just scratch your head...

Saying, "How did this happen?
I'm so far behind!
What can I do
To get out of this bind?"

Take a deep breath
And say a small prayer.
God is your help
And He really does care.

Some things are urgent,
Some things are not.
He'll even take care of
The things you forgot!

So if you are having
Just "one of those days",
Cheer up and be happy
And give God the praise!

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

People Who Inspire

Tillie

I only remember Aunt Tillie from when I was a young girl, but in retrospect, as I think back, she was a very remarkable woman.

A a young woman, Tillie had the misfortune of losing the lower part of her right arm in an industrial accident. Back then the medical field did not have the knowledge to reattach limbs as they do today. So she went through life without a hand and forearm on the right side.

But Tillie had remarkable determination to do everyday tasks and do them well. I can remember how she ironed. She had a "cuff" fitted over her short arm which attached to the handle of the iron. (Back then there were no drip-dry clothes. Everything needed ironing). Yet everything she wore was always neatly pressed and spotless.

She was a very neat housekeeper. Everything was always clean and tidy. You couldn't find one thing out of place in her home. If she had a cup of tea before she went to bed, she would always wash the cup out so she wouldn't have to get up to even one dirty cup the next morning. When she sold her home the real estate man commented that he had never seen such a clean house.

In spite of her handicap, Tillie was industrious. She even learned how to crochet again. Though she struggled with many things, she never let self-pity overtake her. She overcame her handicap with wonderful courage.


"She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness."

"Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates."
Proverbs 31:27 and 31 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Courage

Courage is birthed in the heart over time.
As we trust in God, then we start to climb
To higher achievements in all that we do,
For He is our strength in whate'er we go through.

Life brings us challenges which we must face,
And sometimes we think we cannot "meet the pace".
Opportunity knocks and we don't feel prepared,
Yet if we say "no", then we may have erred.

Our courage will come when we fully depend
On God for our strength, for He will attend
And cause us to go forth with heads held up high.
We need not fear, but on Him rely.

"For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind."
II Timothy 1:7 NKJ

"The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
Psalm 27:1 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Heavenly Threads

Lord, I want You to be interwoven into every thought I have.....
To be threaded through every fiber of my being.....
To be the pattern and design of my life.

To be the color in me which is visible to others.....
To be as shimmering threads which reflect light into darkness.

If the fabric of my life is in Your hands,
Then it will be more beautiful than anything I could conceive.....
For Your hands are loving and creative.

I want those around me to see You, and not me.
In Jesus' Name, Amen.


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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Happy Words

Some people gripe, lament and complain.
Being around them is really a strain.
They fuss and they muss and their troubles discuss.
I wish they would go far away from us!

A growl and a scowl make a sorrowful jowl.
Looking at them makes me just want to howl!
They grumble and mumble, they groan and they moan.
Not being humble, on and on they will drone.

They mutter and sputter and no good word utter.
Help! Get me out of this unhappy splutter!
A positive word would make all seem quite bright,
Would happiness bring..... with a smile of delight!

"Be hospitable to one another without grumbling."
I Peter 4:9 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Giving And Sharing

In this land of "great and plenty"
We never think we have "enough".
We always think we need some more
And soon have too much stuff.

We don't have time to use it all
But relish having "much".
We may not even need the things
To which we tightly clutch.

The way to solve this problem
Is to learn to share and give.
It's very much more joyous
And a better way to live.

Reaching out to other folks
And sharing what we own
Will bring to us a blessing
We won't otherwise have known.

Many people have deep need
And don't know what to do.
The answer to their problem
Just might come from me or you.

"Charge them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be liberal and generous of heart, ready to share with others."
I Timothy 6:18 Amplified Bible

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Hope In Jesus

Always with Jesus there is a new day.
Always with Jesus HOPE comes into play.
Hope brings a future..... a bright second chance.
Hope lifts us up and confidence grants.

Hope is a lifeline..... a vision for some.
Hope is the promise of good things to come.
In Jesus are answers which cannot be seen.
Jesus brings hope..... and on Him we can lean.


"If we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it."
Romans 8:25 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn's Gentle Reminder

In the autumn when the leaves begin to fall and the earth readies itself for a much-needed rest, it seems nature is issuing a "call".....

Autumn brings to a close all of the "fullness" of the year. For the year has spilled out it's goodness in the quiet reflections of winter, in the loveliness of spring, the beauty of summer days, and in the glorious blaze and harvest of colors in autumn.

It calls us to a time of rejoicing for the multiplied bountifulness of the year..... to give thanks to an incredibly giving Father..... to affirm our foundations in Him anew..... to be in Him and to honor Him in all facets of our existence. Autumn is our reminder to be grateful in all things and always to bring thanksgiving to our loving God.

It is a time of great rejoicing. We serve an awesome and wonderful God!


"Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto him with psalms, for the Lord is a great God, and a great King above all gods."
Psalm 95:2-3 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

True Worship

A Vision

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Morning Rush

I have a comic picture..... but really not so funny,
Of a fellow going off to work, with need to make some money.
He sleeps until his clock alarm awakens him from sleep,
Then dashes through his morning, his starting time to keep.

He grabs a cup of coffee and glances at the news,
Then tries to beat the traffic lights on his morning "cruise".
But halfway through the morning, he starts to feel the "crunch".
He's frazzled and he's weary..... and it isn't even lunch!

He got caught up in work-day "rush" and failed to recognize
That taking time to pray each morn would probably be wise.
Taking minutes at the start and giving God some time each day
Facilitates the working day and is a blessed and better way.

"For the eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and his ears are open unto their prayers....."
I Peter 3:12 KJV

© 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

Moving

Moving means work..... and a time of review.
There are cupboards and boxes and drawers to go through.
Where did it come from..... all of this "stuff"?
If we move half of it we'll have enough!

We'll rediscover some things we had lost.
Now we must deal with what should have been "tossed".
All of those things that we tried to collect
We really don't need..... as we stop to reflect.

Moving is "painful"..... it's not any fun,
And we sure will be glad when it's over and done.
We've learned not to store stuff and think we will find
We won't even miss that which we leave behind.

This is a picture of how we will feel
As we follow Jesus and learn what is real.
He will make change in our lives every day
And cause all our "baggage" to just fall away.

"Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth."
Colossians 3:2 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Gardens Of Life

Life is as a series of gardens that we walk through.....

In some we may sit and rest and enjoy the loveliness which is all around us. These are gardens of refreshing and healing and renewal. But in some we will toil and labor..... the ground may be rough and rocky, and the soil may not be easy to till. As we struggle there we will learn new skills and acquire new "muscle"..... wisdom.

Some of the gardens might be somewhat barren, and we will learn there to lean on the Lord for understanding and provision. These might be called gardens of trust.

Occasionally we might pass through a garden of sorrow. In our time there we will know comfort and the depths of God's love and caring.

Or we may pass through a garden where each path has specific directions which we must follow..... signposts everywhere. Some of these instructions we may not understand, but as we carefully walk the paths of this garden we will learn obedience.

Perhaps we will find ourselves in a hidden garden..... isolated and out of the way..... and wonder what we are doing there. It is there we learn to be contented with whatever daily measure God gives us. We learn gratefulness.

There will be many gardens and many experiences along the way, but as we live and walk in these "gardens" we will begin to know God. Each of these gardens will bring blessings of perspective and understanding which we could not have found any other way. We will begin to see the flowers of God's goodness around us in each of the gardens.

To avoid or rush out of a garden too soon is to miss God's precious handshaping of our lives, for in each garden lies a treasure. As we pass through each garden then it's fragrance and understanding will become part of our lives.


"And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge; and to knowledge temperance; and to temperance patience; and to patience godliness; and to godliness brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, charity. For if these things be in you, and abound, they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ."
II Peter 1:5-8 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Special Blessing

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

God's Footpath

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

You Are The Lesson

You are the lesson your children will learn.
In all of your actions the truth they'll discern.
They'll do as you do and act as you act.
Your patterns in life they will surely enact.

For a child loves to mimic his mom and his dad.
He'll be glad when you're glad and sad when you're sad.
The best gift in life for any young child
Is a parent whose life after Jesus is styled.

He'll learn of the Lord in your actions each day.
He'll learn to be loving and he'll learn to pray.
As you follow Jesus, then he'll know Him too.
For He will see Jesus in all that you do.

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Kitty Cat's Nap

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Perfect Balance

Some days are full of too many challenges.
Pressures and tensions pull this way and that.
Others' demands and work expectations
Will tend to make this problem hard to combat.

Finding a balance and easy solution
Are not necessarily easy to do,
But as we seek God He'll help us to start
Sorting out our priorities and think all this through.

For often the "best" things in life can get lost
In a pile-up of busyness out of control.
We needn't keep pace with what the world says
Or yield to what others think should be our goal.

God will give wisdom and practical insight
To show us what should be a comfortable pace.
Only in Him will we find our true balance
And endless frustration finally erase.

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Well-Oiled Gears

Today I am reminded of a creaky old combine, sitting unused and starting to rust. And it's gears and it's mechanisms are stuck from lack of use.

Sometimes in life our relationships or situations, or families or jobs, become like that. All workability seems to have gone past, and we have a "machine" which is no longer working. And sometimes discarding the old for something new seems like a quick and easy answer.

But by the power (the oil) of the Holy Spirit the gears of the "machine" can be lubricated and made to function smoothly again. And that which is of much value will function and move forward once again. An "old" machine of fine, tempered steel is much better than something "new and synthetic". But the machine needs maintenance and must be valued enough to not be discarded.

In life, as our relationships and situations are maintained and well-lubricated with the oil of the Spirit, we will not have discards or breakdowns or "creaky joints" which groan and complain from lack of care. Well-oiled gears run quietly without struggle. And that which we think may be a loss will, by the power of the Spirit, become a treasure of greatest worth.


"And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter that he may abide with you forever; even the spirit of truth....."
John 14:16-17 KJV

"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


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Will You Trust Me?

Will you trust Me, My child,
When I'm shaping your life.....
When I "press in" to mold you
And change what is rife?

For I know your "change-point"
And what it will take
A vessel of worth
And import to make.

Will you trust Me, My child,
When the "fire" becomes hot
Or you don't understand
Exactly your lot?

I'll never forsake you
Nor leave you alone,
But will constantly guard
What to you is unknown.

I will make beauty
And merit and worth,
And to virtue and honor
I will give birth.

Will you trust Me, My child
And savor My touch?
Will you trust Me, My child?
I love you SO MUCH!

"But now, O Lord, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand."
Isaiah 64:8 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Morning's Promise

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

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

I am energized
And renewed in my spirit.

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

Each day is His special gift,

And I am refreshed.


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

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Paintings

The artist has a palette
Of bright colors he can use.
And he blends them as he paints
In a potpourri of hues.

The writer uses words,
As he "paints" with much detail,
To convey his thoughts and stories
In a colorful portrayal.

Paintings made with words,
Using beautiful expression,
Can heal and bring contentment
Or make valuable impression.

Blending words together
In delightful camaraderie
Can brighten up a rainy day
With stories, warmth and comedy.

The artist and the writer
Speak the language of the heart
With paintbrush and with pen.....
One in writings, one in art.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Much To Learn

For Students

Study a lot
And learn, learn, learn.
This is the way
Higher levels we earn.

The path to achievement
Will not sit and wait.
We must pursue it
And not hesitate.

What opportunity,
What treasure store
Is waiting there for us
To find and explore.

It really is fun
To learn something new.
We may be surprised
At what we can do!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Greatest Love

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

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

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

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


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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Another's Shoes

We do not know the sufferings of others
Unless we have walked where they walk.
We cannot know how much they are hurting,
Except when they sometimes will talk.

Help us, O Lord, to not criticize
Those things which we don't understand
When we simply don't know the weight of their load
And what in their life makes demand.

May we learn compassion and never "look down",
May we curb our critical talk.
But for the grace of our loving God
We too might walk where they walk.

"Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: not rendering evil for evil, or railing for railing: but contrariwise blessing; knowing that ye are thereunto called, that ye should inherit a blessing."
I Peter 3:8-9 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn Winds

I do not see from whence you come
Or know just where you go.
In rustling leaves and bending boughs
I hear you moving to and fro.

You seem to tell me with your voice,
"We're in a brand new season."
You've wakened me from summer laze
With urgency of reason.

For though I love the lively feel
Of autumn's brisk, fresh air,
I know that for the winter season
I must soon prepare.

The same way that I see the signs
As seasons come and go,
The Spirit whispers in my heart
Each thing I need to know.

In the Spirit's changing wind
I know I'll find direction.
I'm ever grateful to our God
For covering and protection.


"When He, the Spirit of truth, has come, He will guide you into all truth; for He will not speak on His own authority, but whatever He hears He will speak, and He will tell you things to come."
John 16:13 NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Wonder Of Your Love

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Little Sheep

We have a loving Shepherd.
He cares so for His sheep.
He watches over all His flock,
Their welfare to safe-keep.

He teaches and He nurtures them,
Gently meeting every need.
His watchful eye is on each one
To pray and intercede.

Little lambs are tender
And are not so very strong.
Without the Shepherd's loving touch
They falter and go wrong.

Little sheep, it's wise to stay
Within the Shepherd's fold,
For He will guard you all your days,
And even when you're old.

"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."
Psalm 23:1-3 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Lovely Gift

Today the Lord has blessed my day.
He sent two butterflies my way,
Quickly catching my attention,
Introducing sweet dimension.

Butterflies bring sheer delight,
Fluttering in gentlest flight.
Lightly moving through the air
They just don't seem to have a care.

Only God could paint a wing
And quietly such beauty bring.....
Delicate in every way,
With brilliant color on display.

His handiwork is everywhere
His awesome beauty to declare.
Even in a butterfly.....
So small and sweet and shy.


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Riches Untold

Do you want to be wealthy or want to be rich?
Do you want things to be without hitch, without glitch?
Do you want to reach for the stars or the moon
And don't want to wait..... you want it all soon?

True wealth and riches are patiently learned.
Success in this world by hard work is earned.
But seeking the Lord for wisdom and knowledge
Will bring understanding..... is like spiritual college.

To be rich in Him is the very best goal.
This will bring honor and wealth to your soul.
So reach up to heaven for riches untold.
Have faith to reach for HIS silver and gol.d

"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:19-21 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Eagle's Wings

I want to fly with the wings of an eagle.
And I want to catch the wind of the Spirit with my wings.....
To soar and to be lifted up.

For the wind of the Spirit will take me to high places
And I will be able to see clearly.

I want to ride in the wind of the Spirit.....
To feel the current beneath my wings, carrying me.....
And I will reside there.

For there I will ride above the storms of life.....
Not hindered..... unable to be touched by that which would pull me down.....
Powerful and strong.

The eagle discerns the Wind..... and is free!

"Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty."
II Corinthians 3:17 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Trust In The Lord

Are you fearful and shaky, nervous and fretful,
Or tired and weary and sometimes forgetful?
Maybe you're rushed, and push comes to shove.
You're just plain worn out, with no rest thereof.....

Stop where you are and turn to the Lord.
He will bring peace, and you'll be restored.
For moments you give Him will be multiplied
Back into your life..... with blessings beside.

All things are easier when left in His hand.
He is your hope when you don't understand.
He'll bear your load and will make it His own.
In Him you'll have answers and not be alone.


"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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A New Day

This is a new day..... unlike any other.
It does not look back or mimic another.
It gives opportunity for a fresh start
And offers us time, in which we have part.

How will we use it to please our dear Lord?
Where would He send us..... or what point us toward?
This precious day offers very wide choice.
When Jesus directs us, then we can rejoice!

It's just "one more day" till we find His design,
And then it explodes into "brilliance and shine".
The day is unique, with His signature on it,
And becomes like a lyric and beautiful sonnet.

May all of our days be "signed" by His hand
And have mighty impact as in Him we stand.
May each day be filled and have a rich story,
Accomplish His purpose and bring Him much glory.

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

In God We Trust

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

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

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

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

In God we trust.....

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Busy Little Squirrel

A Children's Poem

Little squirrel, hurry, hurry.
Winter's coming! Scurry, scurry!
Gather food so you won't worry
When you see the snow's first flurry!

Little squirrel, busy, busy,
Worked so hard that he got dizzy,
Worked himself into a tizzy!
Gee whiz! This little squirrel was busy!

When the winter is cold and breezy,
He won't worry and feel queasy.
He won't be hungry or be sneezy
But will rest and take it easy!

"It is unusually wise to store up food for winter.
Even ants that are not strong do so."
Proverbs 30:24-25 (Paraphrased)

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Perseverance

Perseverance wins it's race.

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

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

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

Perseverance wins!

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Paint Project

One summer I really was in the mood to repaint the rooms of my house. And so I set about painting, one room at a time, until I had the whole house done. This project spanned over a period of about three months.

The last rooom to be completed was the dining room. It was getting late in the evening, but since I was so near being all finished, I just continued painting. I didn't want to get up to even one more day of it. I wanted to get done!

It was close to 11:00 p.m., and, with just one more small section to paint, my paint pan ran dry. So I took it down from the ladder, set it on the floor and poured more paint into it. Then, as I was moving my ladder over a bit, the next few moments became chaotic and hilarious.

Our dog Scruffy was in the basement with the youngsters when all of a sudden he heard "Daddy" come in the front door. (Daddy was his favorite person). Daddy was just coming home from work. I didn't hear him come in, but the dog did! Scruffy came flying up the stairs, through the kitchen, THROUGH THE PAINT PAN, across the dining room and living room, and took a flying leap toward Daddy, expecting to get caught in mid-air and cuddled. I started yelling, "He's full of paint! He's full of paint!" Daddy had on a navy blue suit and the paint was WHITE!

He caught the dog in mid-air and just held him there, but the dog, in his excitement, was wiggling and wagging and wasn't easy to hang onto. So I called the youngsters upstairs to rescue the situation. They took him down in the laundry tray and gave him a bath. He was a mess!

Luckily Daddy didn't get painted, but the living room carpet did! So now I had a row of white footprints to clean up. I cleaned the carpet and then finished painting. Now it was really late, but I knew when I washed out the paint roller this time I wouldn't have to do it again. The job was done!

The job came to a more exciting climax than I expected! It seems when you have pets that they wind up in the middle of everything..... even the paint pan!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Work Of My Hands

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn

When summer starts to yawn and
yields her tired labors.....

Autumn steps in with enthusiasm of color and
paints her bright note far and wide.

Surely it seems that God "pulls out all the stops"
in brilliant display of color!

A lovely space in time..... with rich bounty of harvest,
with brisk, invigorating air,
with flurries of activities in preparation
for the new season.

A time of exaltation and thanksgiving
as we celebrate the beauty of creation and
the fullness of God's provision for us.

And then the leaves begin to fall
as all nature seeks a time of rest.

And as winter knocks in her own time,
autumn shuts her door quietly and slips away.

But in memory, our hearts have been warmed
against the coldness of winter
by a very loving God!

"The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord."
Psalm 33:5b NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Something To Ponder

What example am I in my daily walk.....
How does my life speak in the way that I talk.....
Who may be watching my actions each day.....
"Actions speak louder than words," so they say.....


Several years ago we had some neighbors who had three small children. As we began to get to know this family, we realized that they were very, very poor.

Late one summer, as the school year was approaching, I realized that the children were not going to have any new clothes for school. The family simply didn't have enough money to buy them any. So I decided to make dresses for the two girls and a shirt for the boy..... to surprise them. Now this wasn't any big thing for me to do, since I sewed all the time and had fabric on hand. For me, this was a fun project.

Well, I finished the clothes, gave them to the children, and never thought any more about it.

But several years later someone in my family, who wasn't a Christian, made comment about how nice she thought it was that I had done this for these children. Her statement jarred me to the very core of my being. I did not realize that this person had been watching me.

We never know who may be watching us and how much effect we have on others by the way we live. We can, unknowingly, lead others to change their pattern of living just by the example we set. In this we have awesome responsibility and unending opportunity.... to serve others.

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Computer And Me

Sometimes I can't type,
Sometimes I can't spell.
And my words look quite funny
When my fingers rebel!

Then sometimes my bifocals
Play tricks on me.
They make things look funny
When I'm trying to see.

So words I've ne'er seen
Appear on my screen...
Hilarious sentences
With typos between.

I do not think
That I'm getting old.
"These things just happen",
Is what I've been told.

It seems that my mind
And my fingers don't "click".
I find I can't hurry...
I'm not quite as quick.

Don't want to slow down
'Cuz I'm having fun.
But I sure need to "proof"
Everything I have done!

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

People Who Inspire

Beverly

I first met Beverly in a church choir, and I soon learned that she was a music teacher in our school system at grade school level. She had a special gifting to teach children and took a special interest in encouraging children to be better than they thought they could be. She was an encourager.

As it happened, she taught music at the grade school where my nephew, Tim, attended. Tim had an interest in learning to play the piano, and he asked Beverly if she would teach him. She was willing, but Tim had no money for the lessons. So they worked out an arrangement where Tim would go and mow her lawn, and then in return she would give him piano lessons. She really did inspire him, because he pursued this avidly and practiced diligently, becoming quite a good pianist and later enjoying playing classics as an adult.

A few years later Beverly and her family moved to another church where she and her husband later became the childrens' pastors. She had wonderful children's choirs there, and her husband was known to all the little children as "Papa John". Their two daughters taught Sunday School there also.

In her latter years Beverly was known for her prayer journals. She had ill health and suffered quite a lot of pain, but whenever she got a prayer request, she would write it in her journal. Then she would keep track of it and continue to pray until the answer came, writing down the answers. She filled the pages of a number of journals..... how faithful she was!

Beverly loved the Lord with all her heart. Only in heaven will it be known how many children's lives were encouraged and changed because of her love and devotion and caring. She was a wonderful friend and very beautiful in the Lord. I feel very privileged that I knew her.

"Praise ye the Lord. Praise the Lord, O my soul. While I live will I praise the Lord: I will sing praises unto my God while I have any being."
Psalm 146:1-2 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

My Strength

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

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

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

You are my strength.


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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Autumn Smiles

As summer starts to fade away,
Autumn bursts forth in brilliant dress
To bring to close another season
And usher in the winter's rest.

She adds her own sweet offering
To summer's easy-going days
By painting everything she sees
In fiery colors set ablaze.

But her winds and brisk, cool air
Bring a message of their own.
She will cause us to awake
Out of the summer's ease we've known.

For winter follows close behind.
She, too, will bring her very best.
All the land she will embrace
And bring to all much-needed rest.

Seasons come and seasons go,
But autumn has a secret story.
As she smiles with brilliant color,
She shows to us the Father's glory!

"The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord."
Psalm 33:5 NKJ

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Almost Late

A Children's Poem

I can't find my coat.....
And where are my shoes?
All of my things
I just seem to lose!

If I don't hurry,
I'll be late to school.
And being on time
Is a very good rule!

I didn't put
My belongings away
Because I was "busy"
And wanted to play.

I've misplaced my things,
So now I'm in trouble.
And if I don't hurry
My trouble will double!

I guess I should learn
Not to just lay things down,
'Cause when I can't find them,
It sure makes me frown!

I must remember
To put things away.
This would be better.....
And prevent this delay!

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Listening To The Heart

Listening to another's heart
Is a very sensitive art.
For all that dwells so deep within
Desires expression to begin.

We cannot learn to know another
With many words which just will "smother".
The heart is heard in quietness...
In times of listening... without stress.

It's possible to miss "the gold"
Which in quietness would unfold.
A tender heart it's gold will hide,
It's treasure resting deep inside.

For truly listening is a skill
Gained in learning to be "still".
When a heart's deep words are lost
We sadly pay too high a cost.

"Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another."
Romans 12:10 NKJ

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Blessed Peace

How blessed is a home
Filled with peace undisturbed,
Where all is at rest
And all unperturbed.

For where strife comes in
Are contention and hate.
Relationships suffer
And tension is great.

In peace there is healing,
In peace there is rest.
And all who make peace
Will be very much blessed.

The Lord does not want us
To worry and fret.
When we lean on Him
All our needs will be met.

If we learn to love
And will "sit at His feet",
We will partake
Of His peace..... so very sweet.

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

".....Be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you."
II Corinthians 13:11 KJV

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Prayerful Call

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

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

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

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Strong Nation

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

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

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

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Fall Colors

Autumn wonder on display.....
It's color splashed in full array.....

The hillsides and the valleys wear
God's vibrant colors painted there.

Flaming red and brilliant gold.....
Shades of orange so bright and bold.....

When God gives color in richest hue
He blesses me and blesses you.

Thank You, Lord, for lovely days.
We humbly bring all laud and praise.


"And out of the ground the Lord God made every tree grow that is pleasant to the sight and good for food."
Genesis 2:9 NKJ


© 2003 Arlene Schwartzkopf

He Leadeth Me

When I place my hand in the hand of the Lord, I am not afraid. I don't need to be.

Wherever He leads, I will be safe. He is my covering.

He is my strength. Therefore my weakness doesn't matter.

He is able when I sometimes am not, and He does not make error.

He knows me through and through, so I may trust His direction even though I sometimes don't understand it.

He will enable me, by the leading of His hand, to achieve higher levels of accomplishment than I might otherwise know.

He is faithful, and He is always there.


"And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice."
John 10:4 KJV

"The Lord is my shepherd: I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake."
Psalm 23:1-3 KJV

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Giving Heart

When our children were in grade school and still small, our family attended a large church which had very wonderful worship in their services. We didn't have a "song book", nor did we use an overhead projector. The people would just learn the songs as they came each week and sing them from memory. The worship was beautiful as the people sang and worshipped from their hearts and raised their hands in praise to the Almighty God.

After one of the evening services I was standing by the piano, and a young man from India came to me to inquire if there was a source or a song book where he could get some of the songs we sang. I told him that our church didn't have such a book, but that there was a small chorus book with some of the songs which was available in our church book store. He thanked me and left.

Now sometimes after the services we would give our children change to go to the book store and buy something. That was true this particular evening. Our son came back with a refrigerator magnet about Jesus..... he collected them. But our daughter didn't have anything when she came back. I said to her, "Why didn't you buy something?"

This was her answer: "A man came into the store to buy a song book. It cost $1.25, and all he had was a dollar, so I gave him my quarter."

This so touched my heart..... and I'm sure it touched the man's heart too, because our daughter was only seven or eight years old at the time.

"It is more blessed to give than to receive."
Acts 20:35b NKJ

© 2004 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Being Light

Lord, let the witness of my life
Be pure and holy..... always true.
Every day I want to walk
In a way that pleases You.

I may be the only light
In another's weary road.
Help me to be sensitive
And maybe lighten someone's load.

Show me, Lord, if I make error,
Finer-tuning all my ways,
So my light will brighter shine
And bring You glory all my days.

I want to be an open vessel,
Always useful in Your sight.
What a joy to live for You.....
Serving You is my delight!

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


© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

Early Lessons

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Man Of Worth

I met a fine man
Who was full of real gold.
He was not rich,
But his worth was untold.

For hidden within
His quiet facade
Were a beautiful heart
And the wisdom of God.

He reached out to others
By lending a hand.
He sought not a "name"
And made no demand.

In all that he did
He served with a smile.
He quietly worked
And would go the "nth" mile.

His heart was sincere
And gentle and true,
Loving and kind
And honest clear through.

Some may not notice
And fail to behold,
But his life is written
In silver and gold.

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

One Sunday Morning

A True Story

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf

The Eyes Of A Child

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

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

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

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

© 2005 Arlene Schwartzkopf

A Humble Heart

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

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

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

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

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

© 2006 Arlene Schwartzkopf