As I approach my sixty-fourth birthday I look back amazed more than ever at the absolute, the compelling power of God’s Love expressed in the Person, Jesus Christ. In the Gospels I see Him over and over again as He brings hope, healing and forgiveness to the lives of those who respond to His cataclysmic message which challenges every person to trust Him absolutely. In the testimony of the saints down through the ages I see the same Love striding confidently into hovels, dungeons, castles, fields, shacks, mansions, housing projects, suburbs, high rises; I see Him strong and tall, yet kneeling, washing filthy feet; I see Him righteous, perfect, yet shedding blood for each of us; I see Him, almighty God incarnate, templing in my heart, offering me the most amazing love. Every gift I treasure in life; salvation, hope, joy, peace, love, my wife, my children, my grandson, my mother, my brother and sisters, my family, my church family, friends, colleagues, students, challenges, delights; all of it comes into beautiful focus just because Jesus is who He is.

I see Him
All filled up
And pouring over
With the red
And flooding
Waters of
Redeeming love.

I see Him
Kneeling down
And stripped just like
A slave bent
Before His lords
Washing feet,
Amazing love.

I see Him
Smiling bright
Behind the closed
And shuttered
Windows of
My heart in
Triumphant love.

M.S.
June 19, 2016
Matthew 11:28-30

“Come to me, all 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 soul.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”