see

how can we still be
missing so much beauty
our brother
our sister
all the treasures
of the world
right beside you
right beside me

how can we still be
hurting each other
oh can't you see
the glorious ruin
for that is who we are
who we all are
and we cry
for love
just to be loved

oh God
open our eyes
to your presence
image bearers
all around us
and let us
treasure
the treasures we see
and let
this love
start in me

how can we still be
silent
speak
let your words
embrace the sorrow
let your words
heal the pain

speak
be present
embrace
the treasures

oh God
help
me
see

and can it be

and can it be
you came for me
a withered soul
so tired so cold

and can it be
surrendered glory
for this heart of pride
all the shame inside

o withered soul
lift up your voice
o withered soul
cry out rejoice
your light has come
your peace is near
Immanuel is here

and can it be
once blind i see
forgiven free
You died for me

and can it be
new life is mine
and for all time
not just a while
i'll sing and shine
i am your child

this withered soul
now your son
your own
and can
it
be

lift up your eyes

lift up your eyes
oh weary one
and let His love
clothe the lies
mend the wounds
and sing over you

lift up your eyes
oh sacred soul
you matter more
than anyone knows
let His grace
lift your head
you bear His image
be at peace
be at peace

lift up your eyes
oh shame filled one
and let His presence
surround the sorrow
all the monochrome
guilt and shame
will be restored
in the color
of His deliverance
in the brilliance
of His countenance
in the suffering
of His love

lift up your eyes
be at peace
and rest

be at peace
and rest

glimpses of fall part 2

Enjoyed time with my colleagues during our annual retreat in Baraboo, Wisconsin. These images were taken at Devil’s Lake State Park. Thanks for stopping by.

glimpses of fall

A few moments that caught my eye as Fall descends in our area.

at day’s end

He is here

stillness
reflection
quiet
contemplation
listen
He is here

presence
surrender
holy
encounter
He is here

searching
heart open
hope filled
and broken
He is here

rest now
oh my soul
let grace fill
the questions
the doubts
have no fear
His love is here

He is here

good morning home town

My home town is in the state of Illinois. We are considered a southwest suburb of Chicago. The town is all but surrounded by corn and soy bean fields and so it often seems like any kind of major city is far, far away, even though, if the traffic gods are smiling, we can be in beautiful downtown Chicago in about an hour. These Minooka, Midwest skies are treasures that I always enjoy. Thanks for stopping by.