Emmanuel (Repost)

Who is this babe of Bethlehem?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who comes to save and not condemn?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who is this child of virgin birth?
The Son of God, now come to earth!
The Christ of God, our Lord and King!
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!

Who gave His life on Calvary?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who shed His blood to set us free?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who rose triumphant o’er the grave?
Whose name alone has power to save?
The Christ of God, our Lord and King!
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!

Whose feet shall stand on Olivet?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Then war and strife we shall forget.
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Lord, haste the day of Thy return,
when all shall worship, none shall spurn
The Christ of God, our Lord and King!
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!

fpn/undated

This was written as a song, but the music was not put into print.



Picture: Sourced online, October 10, 2017

The Unbelievable Miracle (repost)

The Unbelievable Miracle—
to the natural mind

“A sign…spoken against” Luke 1:34

This Child. . . is for a sign
which some will hate—deny!
And others will, defending it,
if need be, choose to die.
Because there rests upon this,
our sure eternal hope,
and for the present hour,
the strength with life to cope.

“A virgin shall conceive!”
’Tis said, “Can never be!”
yet science cannot side-step
the facts of history.
The prophecy made audible
seven hundred years before;
and holy men confirmed it—
their faithful witness bore.

This whole world is divided,
the camps are only two;
the virgin-birth of Jesus
is the issue clear and true.
We cannot say, “God with us,”
if this we dare deny;
God gave the sign—believe it!
Or reject, and you must die!

fpn/undated



Art: Kissing the Face of God by Morgan Weistling

Our Matchless Lord (Repost)

Royalty, born in a stable
with no regal robes to wear.
Wrapped in bands, oft used as grave clothes.
He would die, our sins to bear.

Paradox beyond explaining
that the highest of the high
chose to live in flesh among us,
learning what it is to cry.

Strategy of God, victorious,
subtle enemies to foil;
ruthless tyrants thus evading,
identified with men of toil.

Sinless spirit - human body -
with no taint of sin or guile,
demonstrating that one human
did live justly all the while.

Prophecies of old fulfilling,
so precisely - not a few
giving details of his coming -
life, death, resurrection, too.

Mystery - that his great power
so transforms a sinful soul,
changing lives from loss to profit,
untamed drives to self-control.

Destiny? There's no more guessing.
Heaven and earth shall both be new.
Christ came down to live among us.
We shall rise when life is through.

fpn 12/82




Photo by Ryan Graybill on Unsplash

The Unbelievable Miracle

The Unbelievable Miracle—
to the natural mind

“A sign…spoken against” Luke 1:34

This Child. . . is for a sign
which some will hate—deny!
And others will, defending it,
if need be, choose to die.
Because there rests upon this,
our sure eternal hope,
and for the present hour,
the strength with life to cope.

“A virgin shall conceive!”
’Tis said, “Can never be!”
yet science cannot side-step
the facts of history.
The prophecy made audible
seven hundred years before;
and holy men confirmed it—
their faithful witness bore.

This whole world is divided,
the camps are only two;
the virgin-birth of Jesus
is the issue clear and true.
We cannot say, “God with us,”
if this we dare deny;
God gave the sign—believe it!
Or reject, and you must die!

fpn/undated



Art: Kissing the Face of God by Morgan Weistling

Press the Battle

Words by Ron Goodman and Frank P. Nickel
Music by Frank P. Nickel

Fierce the warfare and the conflict
as the mighty foe we face.
But through Christ we have the victory;
we will conquer by His grace.

See, the final day is nearing,
soon the crown of life we’ll wear.
Let us win the lost for Jesus
that they too His love may share.

Chorus:
Yes the time of rest is coming
when our warfare shall subside.
Press the battle to the finish
for the Christ who bled and died.

Not for riches, not for glory;
but the lost in sin’s dark night,
we will wage relentless battle—
for the souls of men we’ll fight.

There is joy and sweet communion.
We are comrades in God’s will.
Not a thing this world may offer
can compare or match the thrill.

Chorus:
Yes the time of rest is coming
when our warfare shall subside.
Press the battle to the finish
for the Christ who bled and died.

fpn/undated
Available in printed music. Contact Joyce for a copy.



Picture: sourced online

Emmanuel

Who is this babe of Bethlehem?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who comes to save and not condemn?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who is this child of virgin birth?
The Son of God, now come to earth!
The Christ of God, our Lord and King!
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!

Who gave His life on Calvary?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who shed His blood to set us free?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Who rose triumphant o’er the grave?
Whose name alone has power to save?
The Christ of God, our Lord and King!
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!

Whose feet shall stand on Olivet?
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Then war and strife we shall forget.
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!
Lord, haste the day of Thy return,
when all shall worship, none shall spurn
The Christ of God, our Lord and King!
Emmanuel, Emmanuel!

fpn/undated

This is written as a song, but the music has not be put into print.



Picture: Sourced online, October 10, 2017

Bells Chime on Easter Morn

written as a song but music is unknown

Our Saviour knelt to pray
in dark Gethsemane;
“Oh, if it be Thy will…
let this cup pass from me.
Yet not my will but Thine,
oh Father, Thine be done.”
Bowed down beneath our sorrows,
’twas God’s beloved Son!

With treachery betrayed,
by Pontius Pilate tried,
then scourged and crowned with thorns
all justice was denied.
the cross and then the tomb…
at last in still repose;
but vain the attempt to hold Him;
in triumph, He arose!

Chorus:
Bells chime on Easter morn,
proclaiming Christ is risen!
Bells chime on Easter morn,
new life in Him is given!
’Twas for our guilt and shame
He suffered, bled and died;
yet He arose, and we
are freely justified.
Bells chime on Easter morn.
Yes, Christ indeed is risen!

fpn/undated

Picture: depositphotos.com #66235719, standard license

The Hilltop Perspective

Things just look a little different
when you think you soon may die;
you begin to shift attention 
to the land beyond the sky.

When you can’t keep up with doing,
and you don’t need what you’ve got,
then the big dreams you once cherished
somehow do not mean a lot.

If you know the Lord, you’ll manage
still to keep a steady chin
and not spend your time in worrying
over things that might have been.

If you’ve come to know the Savior
and to His Word you really hold,
you will look into the future
with excitement, staying bold.

Some may speak about “the valley;”
that’s not how it has to be.
Think of it as the last hill top, 
where God’s glory you will see.

Now’s the time to sing of mercy
God supplies from day to day,
and the joy of His salvation
as you pause to read and pray.

Why not spend some time in singing
the old songs that bless the soul?
And keep telling that sweet story
of the Christ who made you whole.

fpn 5/83



Picture: depositphotos.com #36983703, standard license

Take No Chances

Two thieves, condemned, on either side
of Jesus’ cross, were crucified;
the one released from sin and gloom,
the other sealed for eternal doom.

There’s hope for all till dying day;
but learn the lesson, here I pray,
if His every call is now bypassed,
do you think Christ will call at last?

fpn/undated



Picture: James J. Tissot, 'Pardoning the Repentant Thief' (1896), accessed online September 10, 2017






“The last business of Christ’s life
was the saving of a poor penitent thief.” ~D.L. Moody

Perhaps This Year

Perhaps this coming year will bring 
the blest return of Christ, our King!
When He shall call His waiting bride,
to be forever at His side.

“When ye think not,” is what He said;
the both the living and the dead
shall at one moment hear His voice—
be caught away and there rejoice!

“To those who look for Him” –His own,
He’ll give the right to share His throne.
Friend, are you sure you’re heaven-bound?
Tuned in to catch the trumpet sound?

Or would you hate to leave this scene
and is there something now between
to mar your fellowship of soul?
Is Christ completely in control?

“Abide in me!” What grace is this? 
The ultimate of earthly bliss!
Not for a season, as sin’s mirth,
but peace and joy transcending earth.

The treasures which we send above
He keeps for us—our Lord of Love.
Our part—to trust, to work, to pray,
then claim those riches, some sweet day!

fpn/undated

Picture: designed on Crello.com

Love Defined

Of all the things we talk about
one subject heads the list.
In tones profound, we speak this word
or often as we jest.
Let’s take a bit of time just now
attempting to define
just what LOVE means to you and me—
the natural and sublime.

The highest form of love revealed
by faith alone we share:
a cross upon a lonely hill—
our Savior dying there.
Our judgment past, our debt is gone,
our sins are all forgiven;
we now are fully justified
and know we’re bound for heaven.

And next, that love mysterious
where two become as one,
while sharing joys and trials till
the race of life is run.
And finally, a love that’s wide
which shares, then too, receives,
and seeks to be a friend in need—
in comradeship believes.

Our God is love; love is of God;
to dwell in God means love.
All purposes in life are vain
until God’s love we prove;
then ALL of earth’s relationships
will come to mean much more.
Our hearts can take the whole world in
through Christ, whom we adore.

fpn/undated

This is the second poem with this title, the first was much longer, published as poem #28 in Contemporary Psalms. As is the prerogative of all poets, Frank edited the first version significantly, resulting in this more concise version. If you wish to read the longer first version, you may do so by clicking here. 

Picture: depositphotos.com #36741689, standard license

The Championship

Christ Jesus came, dear friend of mine
to set the record straight.
We need not be sin’s victims
in this world of lust and hate.

How foolish to excuse ourselves
for our besetting sin
and live in misery all the while,
when the victory we may win.

Oh, what a confrontation, when
God sent His precious Son
to face our foe and “knock him out!”
That bout our Savior won.

In chapter three and verse fifteen 
of Genesis, we read,
the woman’s seed would strike a blow
to crush the serpent’s head!

And Satan’s might, let’s not deny,
is great—it’s evident!
The tragic scenes through history
confirm that fact and trend.

To top it, many won’t believe
from sin they can be free;
but blind in sin, with guilt and fear, 
they drift on aimlessly.

Yes, Christ was bruised while in “the ring”
He died, delighting foes,
but saving us—oh, praise to God!
We live, for He arose!

fpn/December 1984



Picture: depositphotos.com #30894447, standard license

Consecration

by Frank P. Nickel

Lord, I want to qualify
for your “Well done!” when I die,
letting others see that I
LOVE the living Christ!

Let me always prove I’m true,
filled with grace and knowledge, too,
so by what I say and do,
SHOW the living Christ!

Let me shun the praise of man,
keeping low—by grace I can—
walking humbly by Your plan,
PRAISE the living Christ!

Not for earthly gain or ease,
or to sail the seven seas,
but by conquest on my knees,
CROWN the living Christ!

Oh, for pow’r to win the lost,
win them now whate’er the cost,
watching, praying at my post,
SERVE the living Christ!

May I not procrastinate
and in witnessing be late,
but with souls of dreadful fate
SHARE the living Christ!

He’s the lamb, He came to save,
willingly His life He gave,
rose in triumph from the grave,
HE’S THE LIVING CHRIST!

Published as Poem #17 in Contemporary Psalms

(c) 1975, Radiant Light Enterprises

Picture: depositphotos.com #82612402, standard license

He Came for All

Some seem convinced that Christ is just
for women and the kids
and so they don’t expose themselves
to the good that Jesus bids.

“Peace on earth—good will to men,”
that takes in everyone;
but now as then some miss the joy
of knowing Christ the Son.

The merriment at Christmas is
so hollow at the core.
For some it spells much tragedy—
to rich as well as poor.

Could they but know the peace of mind
and comfort to the soul
available to those who trust,
and let Him have control.

Oh, “taste and see—the Lord is good;”
just face reality!
He offers resurrection life,
from chains of sin be free.

So many then received Him not
and nothing much has changed,
but those who do—oh, what a thrill!
Their lives are rearranged.

A babe, two thousand years ago;
today, the King of Kings.
In His domain, there’s peace and joy
not found in earthly things.

fpn/December 1984

(Alternate Title: The Supreme Good)

It is I

It is I – be not afraid;
It is I – be not dismayed;
It is I – for you I’ve prayed;
—I’m with you and for you all the way!

It is I – my peace I give;
It is I – was dead, now live;
Don’t despair in Satan’s sieve;
—I’m with you and for you all the way!

It is I – my grace receive;
It is I – my word believe;
It is I – great things achieve;
—I’m with you and for you all the way!

fpn / 1996




Picture: "Jesus Walking on the Sea of Galilee" (c. 1590) by Paul Bril and Frederik van Valckenborch. Public Domain. Image accessed via Wikimedia Commons, July 2, 2017.

Now That I Know (I Am Saved)

Behold the manner of God’s love
that I, through Jesus’ blood,
transformed from fallen, sinful state,
am now the child of God.
Deserving well His holy wrath 
for sins which I had done,
should share His love and fellowship
by faith in Christ, His Son.

Chorus
Now that I know that I am saved, how sweet my rest!
With perfect peace and lasting joy, I now am blest.
My heart can sing because a melody divine
now thrills my soul—let praises roll, for Christ is mine!

Behold the manner of God’s love:
I now am free to reign,
while once I suffered as a slave
in Satan’s vast domain.
I once was lost, but now am found;
was blind, but now I see.
The light of heavenly love has dawned.
Oh, praise the Lord, I’m free!

Chorus
If you don’t know that you are saved, how can you rest?
With perfect peace and lasting joy, you may be blest.
Believe His Word, accept His promise, ever true.
Let Jesus in, He’ll cleanse from sin, He died for you!

fpn / 1964

Published in Contemporary Psalms, p. 5
Set to music in Sing and Give Thanks as song #5.
Contact Joyce for a copy.


Photo: depositphotos.com #139728736, standard license

Christian Service Hazards

This poem was written during the last summer of family touring before Frank accepted a call to pastor a church.










What are the implications
for serving Christ the Lord?
And are there any hazards
where life is thus out-poured?

We often speak of blessings
and benefits we reap
but shall we bypass sorrows
and ne’er have cause to weep?

We’re speaking now of valor
and for a job well done
while witnessing for Jesus,
whom this world seeks to shun.

We read of men in old times
who hazarded their lives
for the name of our Lord Jesus
(through such, the church still thrives).

They counted it an honor
to suffer for His name;
for in that name was power
to heal the sick and lame.

And in that name, authority 
to break the chains of sin
and liberate the prisoners—
their souls for heaven to win.

And no intimidation
could quench their ardent zeal.
No threatening could daunt them,
no charge their lips could seal.

The pain of being hated,
by some they sought to win,
brought tears—but of compassion
for those deceived by sin.

What then is the criterion
for usefulness to God—
prosperity and praises
or a life-style that is “mod”?

No! Understand the signals:
the world but loves its own;
to those of heavenly calling,
few courtesies are shown.

But Christ, our conquering captain
leads on with power and grace.
Through Him we walk serenely,
though serious threats we face.

Oh, may His love propel us
to follow His command
and though we face great hazards,
have power and grace to stand.

fpn / Summer 1977



Photo Credit: Deposit Photos #5808940, standard license

Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness

Jesus, Thy Blood and Righteousness
Text by Nicolaus L. von Zinzendorf
Translated by Frank P. Nickel, 1992

Jesus, thy blood and righteousness
my confidence and glorious dress,
my password through the pearly gate
and to the joys that there await.
The innocent, all holy Lamb
impaled upon the cross of shame,
the Christ, my Lord, who saved my soul,
Him I confess; He made me whole!

Agreed that Jesus’ blood by far
excels all earthly goods there are;
in heaven settled, so it stands,
and satisfies the low’s demands.
With firm determination now,
while in this evil world below,
I shall confess the precious Blood
which purchased all of us for good.

O blessed Christ, the undefiled,
yet born on earth, a human child
to pay redemption’s price for me
and all on earth, may be set free.
Lord Jesus Christ, the Father’s Son
eternally of the Three-In-One,
the glorious King, let mercy flow
on all who choose to humbly bow!




Photo Credit: Deposit Photos #146445611, Standard License

The Case of Locked Horns

You've heard of two dogs as they tangled one day;
while the third took the bone and with ease ran away.
The lesson is simple, but quickly we state,
to the dogs that were fighting, the loss was not great.
For dog fights are common and seldom 'tis said,
that they fight to the finish, leaving one or both dead.

A more tragic lesson from nature is born
in the wilds of the mountain, 'tis the deer with locked horn.
While the cause of the conflict may justified be,
still, subduing the other, himself he can't free.
Human hands might have helped had they chanced to be near,
to rescue from death at least one of the deer.

Both deer may regret that they started to fight,
but together, they die with antlers locked tight.
As with deer, so with man, in his passionate stress,
"Horns" are locked, often times, and there seems no regress.
Both fear and distrust may smolder and burn,
as souls in despair for deliverance yearn.

Disentangling horns calls for strength and for skill,
yet for all there is hope: look to Calvary's hill
where Jesus was slain in His effort to save
the souls of rebellious men from the grave.
He has wounds that were caused by the weight of our sin
and the full price was paid that our souls He might win.

fpn/undated



Published as poem #26 in Contemporary Psalms
Photo credit: Depositphotos 12781940, Standard license

Our Matchless Lord

Royalty, born in a stable
with no regal robes to wear.
Wrapped in bands, oft used as grave clothes.
He would die, our sins to bear.

Paradox beyond explaining
that the highest of the high
chose to live in flesh among us,
learning what it is to cry.

Strategy of God, victorious,
subtle enemies to foil;
ruthless tyrants thus evading,
identified with men of toil.

Sinless spirit - human body -
with no taint of sin or guile,
demonstrating that one human
did live justly all the while.

Prophecies of old fulfilling,
so precisely - not a few
giving details of his coming -
life, death, resurrection, too.

Mystery - that his great power
so transforms a sinful soul,
changing lives from loss to profit,
untamed drives to self-control.

Destiny? There's no more guessing.
Heaven and earth shall both be new.
Christ came down to live among us.
We shall rise when life is through.

fpn 12/82