He Came for All (Repost)

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)

The Supreme Good

Some seem to think that church is just
“For women and the kids.”
And so they don’t expose themselves 
to the good that Jesus bids.

’Twas “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 the 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.”
Let’s face reality.
He offers resurrection power, 
abundant life, and 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 12/84

(Alternate Title: He Came for All)



Picture: Faithlife Verse of the Day, accessed via Twitter, August 8, 2017

Our Sin Darkened Minds

I thought I knew the Lord
and served Him fairly well;
but one can be so sure
and still wind up in hell.

Our hearts, the Bible says,
are wicked at the core
and blind to what is right;
we sin, and ask for more.

Perhaps you don’t agree;
if so, I’m not surprised.
It simply proves the point
you’ve not yet reaized:

“None righteous—no, not one.”
However we’ve been trained,
we’ve all rebelled ’gainst God;
our character is stained.

And sad to say, God’s own,
make claims that may be bold,
but few e’er realize
how proud their hearts, and cold.

But here’s the good, good news:
when anyone complies,
God shows us who we are
and opens our blind eyes.

If repentant, we will bow.
He then applies the Blood
which cleanses us from sin,
then God declares us good!

fpn/91
(Alternate title: "Actual Goodness")



Picture: depositphotos.com #67680841, standard license

A Peaceful Afterglow

There comes a time for everyone
when the race of life is nearly run.
We give up this and we give up that;
we begin to wonder where we’re at!
But with Christ, at sunset we can know
a bright and peaceful after-glow!

Gods got a job for me to do;
I won’t give up until I’m through.
The devil says I’m not much good;
he’s lied before, I knew he would!
There are folks around with pain and care
so I’ll stand by with love and prayer.

fpn / August 1985

Alternate title: "Never Quitting"

Photo credit: Deposit Photos #127738224, standard license

God is Good

Original text by E.C. Magaret, translated from German by F.P. Nickel

Original music arranged by H.A. Henry; alternate musical arrangement by F.P. Nickel

God is good—by grace He saved us—
He our hope has oft renewed.
Lighting up our pilgrim pathway,
God is love and God is good!

All our needs and more supplying—
sunshine, rain and pleasant food,
joys of fellowship and service.
God is love and God is good!

In our toil and in our suffering
He imparts the joyful mood,
lifting us above our sorrows.
God is love and God is good!

In each season of abundance,
in our loss and solitude,
His design is for our profit.
God is love and God is good!

Though the nations rage in conflict,
restless throngs rebel and feud,
He alone stands firm and final;
God is love and God is good!

By His love and care surrounded,
with His grace and power endued,
we may rest in Jesus' keeping.
God is love and God is good!

Lyrics published 1975 in Contemporary Psalms, p. 2.
Recorded on LP771, "God is Good" side one
Sheet music available from Joyce.



Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com 2847514, Standard License