Angels above never cease to praise and adore the Almighty God.
Believers below bow before the Bread of life.
Creatures that creep, and crawl prostrate themselves before the Creator.
Devoted hands are lifted to glorify God’s deliverance of man.
Eagles soar high into the heaven to extol their joyful praises.
Falling down before the cross, the faithful weep at the foot of it.
Gentiles glories in the goodness and grace of God’s gift to man.
Hallelujah, holy, and hosanna are proclaim in honor the Son of God
Israel and Incense are lifted up, as God inhabits his children praise.
Jubilant Jews will dance in the streets of New Jerusalem.
Kisses of believers will be given to feet of the King for his kindness.
Lion and lamb alike will leap for joy at the sight of the giver of life.
Majestic mountains will magnify the Messiah’s mercies.
Notes of the harps, trumpets, and all nature sing to the Nazarene.
Obedient servants offer the sacrifice of praise to He who overcomes.
Priest sent up prayers and praise unto the presences of perfect one.
Quietly and Quickly the angles respond to His every command.
Righteous, respect, reverence, and rejoicing are release when He is near.
Salvation song rings the splendor of His sacrifice to save sinful man.
Thanks, and tribute can never tell enough of His truth and love.
Unending, unlimited awe is uttered before the throne of Christ.
Veneration and Victory are God’s vow to man’s voice crying for mercy.
Warriors welcome the wonders of the wounds that heal worthless souls.
eXcellentence of the exalted one existence is expose for all to see.
Yesterday, today and tomorrow will yield to Yahweh’s glory.
Zion is zealous for manifestation of His return. Blessed be His name.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 6-1-09
Monday, April 5, 2010
Who stands for me?
Who will stand for me and tell the world about me?
How can they come to me if no one speaks for me?
Will you tell them of my love?
A love that started before they were born.
And that reaches across the hands of time.
A love that would reach from heaven throne
And rested as a babe inside a stable manager.
A love that desires to meet man’s every need
And give love, hope, joy, and peace.
A love that woes their heart with everlasting love
And calls longingly for His bride.
A love that knit them wonderfully and skillfully inside the womb.
And that at the perfect moment birth life into them.
A love that reached out to them with arms open wide.
And that searched and called for them to come home.
A love that directs your paths and steps
And tell them where to stop and rest.
A love that saw their sin and hopelessness
And built a bridge back home where there was none.
A love that is selflessly, flawless, and complete.
And took their shame upon the cross.
A love that looked Death and Hell in the face
And said you are defeated, I have won.
A love that sent heaven’s angels to minister to man
And set upon the judgment seat, wait for the last man to come
Answering His call to come back home.
Who will stand for me?
Who will tell the world about me?
Will it be you? Are you up to the task?
Will you give a cup of water in my name to thirsty in the Sudan?
Will you give living water to their soul?
Will you give a sandwich to the homeless?
Will you bless them with living bread?
Can you translate my word into another language so that they can understand?
Will you hand out a Bible?
Can you travel to the mission field and become a fisherman of man?
Can you give up a treasured dollar to help others reach a soul?
Do you have a voice, to raise in song or praise?
Can you preach or share my word?
Will you write a letter to speak for Israel or the Jewish people?
Will you vote to save to unborn?
Will you do what right when no one is looking?
Will you serve your boss as if he were I?
Can you be a friend to those who are unloved?
Will you serve a Mom or Dad to those who have none?
Can you sent a package to a service man?
Can you encourage the dishearten and weary?
Can you put your arms around the batter, abused or raped?
Can you reach out to those trying to kill their pain with drugs, alcohol, or sex?
Will you shed a tear for who live in fear and hopelessness?
Can you cry with those who have lost spouse, parent or child?
Can you visit a prison or a nursing home?
Can you send a card to remind someone that I love them?
Will you pick up the phone and invite someone to study God word?
Can you give a bowl of chicken soup?
Can you anoint the sick with healing hands?
Will you love your spouse and kids as I have loved you?
Will you take your kids to church?
Will you give up your time to pray for others souls?
Can you rock a babe to sleep with God’s lullaby?
Can you teach a class in my name?
Will you invite your neighbor to come?
Will you forgive someone who hurt you?
Will you pray for your enemy’s salvation
Including those who wage a Holy War against us?
Will you live your life in such a way to make them ask of me?
Can you show my joy even in the hard times? Other’s are looking at you.
Can you still trust me, even when you can’t see what I doing?
Will you lay down your life for me and take up my cross?
Would you go to jail for me, or take a bullet for me?
No one can do it all, everyday. What can you do today?
Who will stand for me? Who will tell the world what I have done?
Will it be you or will you fail one more time to do what I have asked?
Time is running out, soon there will be no more time to act?
What will you say to those you failed to love? What will you say to me?
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 3-21-09
How can they come to me if no one speaks for me?
Will you tell them of my love?
A love that started before they were born.
And that reaches across the hands of time.
A love that would reach from heaven throne
And rested as a babe inside a stable manager.
A love that desires to meet man’s every need
And give love, hope, joy, and peace.
A love that woes their heart with everlasting love
And calls longingly for His bride.
A love that knit them wonderfully and skillfully inside the womb.
And that at the perfect moment birth life into them.
A love that reached out to them with arms open wide.
And that searched and called for them to come home.
A love that directs your paths and steps
And tell them where to stop and rest.
A love that saw their sin and hopelessness
And built a bridge back home where there was none.
A love that is selflessly, flawless, and complete.
And took their shame upon the cross.
A love that looked Death and Hell in the face
And said you are defeated, I have won.
A love that sent heaven’s angels to minister to man
And set upon the judgment seat, wait for the last man to come
Answering His call to come back home.
Who will stand for me?
Who will tell the world about me?
Will it be you? Are you up to the task?
Will you give a cup of water in my name to thirsty in the Sudan?
Will you give living water to their soul?
Will you give a sandwich to the homeless?
Will you bless them with living bread?
Can you translate my word into another language so that they can understand?
Will you hand out a Bible?
Can you travel to the mission field and become a fisherman of man?
Can you give up a treasured dollar to help others reach a soul?
Do you have a voice, to raise in song or praise?
Can you preach or share my word?
Will you write a letter to speak for Israel or the Jewish people?
Will you vote to save to unborn?
Will you do what right when no one is looking?
Will you serve your boss as if he were I?
Can you be a friend to those who are unloved?
Will you serve a Mom or Dad to those who have none?
Can you sent a package to a service man?
Can you encourage the dishearten and weary?
Can you put your arms around the batter, abused or raped?
Can you reach out to those trying to kill their pain with drugs, alcohol, or sex?
Will you shed a tear for who live in fear and hopelessness?
Can you cry with those who have lost spouse, parent or child?
Can you visit a prison or a nursing home?
Can you send a card to remind someone that I love them?
Will you pick up the phone and invite someone to study God word?
Can you give a bowl of chicken soup?
Can you anoint the sick with healing hands?
Will you love your spouse and kids as I have loved you?
Will you take your kids to church?
Will you give up your time to pray for others souls?
Can you rock a babe to sleep with God’s lullaby?
Can you teach a class in my name?
Will you invite your neighbor to come?
Will you forgive someone who hurt you?
Will you pray for your enemy’s salvation
Including those who wage a Holy War against us?
Will you live your life in such a way to make them ask of me?
Can you show my joy even in the hard times? Other’s are looking at you.
Can you still trust me, even when you can’t see what I doing?
Will you lay down your life for me and take up my cross?
Would you go to jail for me, or take a bullet for me?
No one can do it all, everyday. What can you do today?
Who will stand for me? Who will tell the world what I have done?
Will it be you or will you fail one more time to do what I have asked?
Time is running out, soon there will be no more time to act?
What will you say to those you failed to love? What will you say to me?
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 3-21-09
Who am I?
I am the child unwanted, unloved and unplanned.
I am the woman that is batter and broken.
I am the imperfect, ugly and fat
Even the love I give is unacceptable.
I am rejected by husbands, church, and man.
I am the ungifted, untalented, lacking value
That will never amount to anything.
I am the homeless and the sick.
I am the poor and defenseless
That is overlooked or picked on.
I am the worker no one wants
And the floor mat everyone takes from.
I am lonely and abandoned
By those that should have love me.
And left to make it on my own.
I am a powerless victim
I am void of all hope and love
That would welcome the comfort of a grave.
This is who the world said that I am.
Those who become Christians become new persons. I am not the same anymore for the old life is gone. A new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17
I am confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6
GOD SAID
I am loved so much that God would give up his only son
that I might have an everlasting life. John 3:16
I am loved so much that God would accept me
And adopt me as His own precious child. Galatians 4:5
See how very much our heavenly Father loves me,
for He allows me to be called his child and I really am. 1 John 3:1
Before I formed in the womb, He knew me;
And before I was born I was consecrated to You. Jer 1:5
For You didst from my inward parts;
You didst weave me in my mother’s womb.
You caused me to be fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are You works, And my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book they were all written,
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them. Ps 139: 13-16
But God demonstrated His own love toward me, that while I was yet a sinners, Christ died for me. Romans 5:8
Christ did seek the lost, bring me back, bind up my brokenness, and strengthening my sick. He will feed His flock and give them rest. Ezekiel 34: 15-16
He was wounded for my transgressions, He was bruised for my iniquities, the chastisement for my peace and by His stripes I am healed Is 53:4-5
Christ heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Ps 147:3
Christ pardons all my iniquities, heals all my diseases,
He redeems my life from the pit,
And crowns me with loving kindness and compassion,
He satisfied my years with good things
So that my youth is renewed like the eagles. Ps 103: 3-5
God has said, “ I will never, never fail you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13: 5
I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. John 14:18
“I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Roman 8:28
My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
The Lord will give grace and glory: No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
Depend on the Lord in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3
O taste and see that the Lord is good: How blessed is the man that takes refuge in Him! Ps 34: 8
The Lord is a strong fortress. The Godly run to him and are safe. Proverbs 18:10
The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,
My God, my rock in whom I take refuge;
My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,
And I am saved from my enemies. PS 18:2-3
God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Ps 46:1
Cast your burden upon the lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken Ps 55:22
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 5-19-09
I am the woman that is batter and broken.
I am the imperfect, ugly and fat
Even the love I give is unacceptable.
I am rejected by husbands, church, and man.
I am the ungifted, untalented, lacking value
That will never amount to anything.
I am the homeless and the sick.
I am the poor and defenseless
That is overlooked or picked on.
I am the worker no one wants
And the floor mat everyone takes from.
I am lonely and abandoned
By those that should have love me.
And left to make it on my own.
I am a powerless victim
I am void of all hope and love
That would welcome the comfort of a grave.
This is who the world said that I am.
Those who become Christians become new persons. I am not the same anymore for the old life is gone. A new life has begun! 2 Corinthians 5:17
I am confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6
GOD SAID
I am loved so much that God would give up his only son
that I might have an everlasting life. John 3:16
I am loved so much that God would accept me
And adopt me as His own precious child. Galatians 4:5
See how very much our heavenly Father loves me,
for He allows me to be called his child and I really am. 1 John 3:1
Before I formed in the womb, He knew me;
And before I was born I was consecrated to You. Jer 1:5
For You didst from my inward parts;
You didst weave me in my mother’s womb.
You caused me to be fearfully and wonderfully made.
Wonderful are You works, And my soul knows it very well.
My frame was not hidden from You, When I was made in secret,
And skillfully wrought in the depths of the earth.
Your eyes have seen my unformed substance;
And in Your book they were all written,
The days that were ordained for me,
When as yet there was not one of them. Ps 139: 13-16
But God demonstrated His own love toward me, that while I was yet a sinners, Christ died for me. Romans 5:8
Christ did seek the lost, bring me back, bind up my brokenness, and strengthening my sick. He will feed His flock and give them rest. Ezekiel 34: 15-16
He was wounded for my transgressions, He was bruised for my iniquities, the chastisement for my peace and by His stripes I am healed Is 53:4-5
Christ heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Ps 147:3
Christ pardons all my iniquities, heals all my diseases,
He redeems my life from the pit,
And crowns me with loving kindness and compassion,
He satisfied my years with good things
So that my youth is renewed like the eagles. Ps 103: 3-5
God has said, “ I will never, never fail you nor forsake you.” Hebrews 13: 5
I will not leave you comfortless: I will come to you. John 14:18
“I know the plans that I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans for a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11
We know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Roman 8:28
My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
The Lord will give grace and glory: No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.
Depend on the Lord in whatever you do, and your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:3
O taste and see that the Lord is good: How blessed is the man that takes refuge in Him! Ps 34: 8
The Lord is a strong fortress. The Godly run to him and are safe. Proverbs 18:10
The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,
My God, my rock in whom I take refuge;
My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
I call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised,
And I am saved from my enemies. PS 18:2-3
God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble. Ps 46:1
Cast your burden upon the lord and He will sustain you; He will never allow the righteous to be shaken Ps 55:22
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 5-19-09
What Will You Do, With Him?
The sky was dark and gloomy; the sun had gone away,
I walked the crooked path leading to my death,
Only now at the end did I find its bitter sting.
Its mouth opened wide to the gates of Hell.
Now as I slip ever closer to the pit awaiting me
Does its true and hideous form appear.
The smoke so thick it takes my breath away,
The flames so hot they burn my skin.
I struggle to get away, but cannot break free.
Why did I run to it, and not turn back to Thee?
I heard the warnings ring,
But surely they did not apply to me.
I listened only to my own heart
Black and black could be
Lost without a light, not know I was blind.
Why go to church it’s full of hypocrites?
I said, “I know best, I know right.”
They are only little sins, hardly worth the mention.
I told myself they hurt only me, and not others.
No harm in indulging myself, after all I was worth it.
What harm was there for me to try to be like God?
Surely, I was the master of my own fate,
There could be no harm in my works.
Works are good. Are they not?
It is not as if I am not better than my neighbor is.
His sins are large as timbers and mine a mere speck.
I could never do what God asked, it would cost too much
And someone might see me and think me less than perfect.
So I let my heart believe its own lies.
I felt Your gentle pull on my heart,
I turn a deaf ear to Your word.
I rejected those who tried to witness
And tell me of Your undying love.
I will deal with it someday, When I have nothing else to do.
I will deal with it sometime, When I have nothing else to lose.
I dreamed I stood before my Judge and Maker.
My time now up, my last chance gone.
Trembling in fear and shame, I fell down.
For now I saw what holiness is.
I saw my heart for the filthy vile container it is.
Now I know what justice demands.
I have been found lacking, having missed my mark
My balance now due, the cost my life, now forfeited.
Oh, how could I have been so blind?
He took my place, He took my cross,
He took my nails, He took my crown.
My debt was paid, but I would not take the gift.
He offered me life eternal and abundant
And love that stretches beyond time itself,
When he opened up his arms wide and died for me.
He offered me healing and forgiveness.
He offered me a mansion on streets paved with gold.
He offered me sweet, sweet fellowship at his feet.
Yet I had turned the other way, and said not good enough.
When I awoke I fell upon my face, For it was not too late for me.
The shouts of a thousand angels filled the sky,
For one more pitiful sinner had turn back home.
The light so pure, cleaned and washed my sin away
And made my soul white with His righteousness.
Joy, Peace, Mercy, Forgiveness flooded deep within my soul.
Healed all my pain and dried away my tears.
Now I cry only bring me closer to Thee, do not let me leave You.
Make me your image; mold me to Your likeness.
Glory, Honor, and all praise be unto Him who rescued me
And saved me for His own.
My love, my heart, and my soul yours, forever grateful.
May I never take my eyes off You, may I never disappoint You.
May I never fail to tell others what You have done for me
And what You will do for them.
For there is none like You. You who give so much and ask so little.
You are beautiful, awesome, powerful, true, never changing.
Your way is best, Your path straight, Your yoke easy.
You have loved me before my first breath, You bring only blessings to me.
Why did I wait so long? What did I fear? I do not know.
What is your excuse? Will you choose before it is too late?
Or will you only bow your knee when all choice is gone?
What greater pain could there be than to know what could have been?
To never feel those loving arms or look into the Father’s eyes?
I will never regret my choice, Can you say the same?
What will you do with him?
Kathy Barnes
Copyrighted 2-4-08
I walked the crooked path leading to my death,
Only now at the end did I find its bitter sting.
Its mouth opened wide to the gates of Hell.
Now as I slip ever closer to the pit awaiting me
Does its true and hideous form appear.
The smoke so thick it takes my breath away,
The flames so hot they burn my skin.
I struggle to get away, but cannot break free.
Why did I run to it, and not turn back to Thee?
I heard the warnings ring,
But surely they did not apply to me.
I listened only to my own heart
Black and black could be
Lost without a light, not know I was blind.
Why go to church it’s full of hypocrites?
I said, “I know best, I know right.”
They are only little sins, hardly worth the mention.
I told myself they hurt only me, and not others.
No harm in indulging myself, after all I was worth it.
What harm was there for me to try to be like God?
Surely, I was the master of my own fate,
There could be no harm in my works.
Works are good. Are they not?
It is not as if I am not better than my neighbor is.
His sins are large as timbers and mine a mere speck.
I could never do what God asked, it would cost too much
And someone might see me and think me less than perfect.
So I let my heart believe its own lies.
I felt Your gentle pull on my heart,
I turn a deaf ear to Your word.
I rejected those who tried to witness
And tell me of Your undying love.
I will deal with it someday, When I have nothing else to do.
I will deal with it sometime, When I have nothing else to lose.
I dreamed I stood before my Judge and Maker.
My time now up, my last chance gone.
Trembling in fear and shame, I fell down.
For now I saw what holiness is.
I saw my heart for the filthy vile container it is.
Now I know what justice demands.
I have been found lacking, having missed my mark
My balance now due, the cost my life, now forfeited.
Oh, how could I have been so blind?
He took my place, He took my cross,
He took my nails, He took my crown.
My debt was paid, but I would not take the gift.
He offered me life eternal and abundant
And love that stretches beyond time itself,
When he opened up his arms wide and died for me.
He offered me healing and forgiveness.
He offered me a mansion on streets paved with gold.
He offered me sweet, sweet fellowship at his feet.
Yet I had turned the other way, and said not good enough.
When I awoke I fell upon my face, For it was not too late for me.
The shouts of a thousand angels filled the sky,
For one more pitiful sinner had turn back home.
The light so pure, cleaned and washed my sin away
And made my soul white with His righteousness.
Joy, Peace, Mercy, Forgiveness flooded deep within my soul.
Healed all my pain and dried away my tears.
Now I cry only bring me closer to Thee, do not let me leave You.
Make me your image; mold me to Your likeness.
Glory, Honor, and all praise be unto Him who rescued me
And saved me for His own.
My love, my heart, and my soul yours, forever grateful.
May I never take my eyes off You, may I never disappoint You.
May I never fail to tell others what You have done for me
And what You will do for them.
For there is none like You. You who give so much and ask so little.
You are beautiful, awesome, powerful, true, never changing.
Your way is best, Your path straight, Your yoke easy.
You have loved me before my first breath, You bring only blessings to me.
Why did I wait so long? What did I fear? I do not know.
What is your excuse? Will you choose before it is too late?
Or will you only bow your knee when all choice is gone?
What greater pain could there be than to know what could have been?
To never feel those loving arms or look into the Father’s eyes?
I will never regret my choice, Can you say the same?
What will you do with him?
Kathy Barnes
Copyrighted 2-4-08
The Precious Blood of Jesus
Many, many years ago, God made a covenant of blood
With our father Abraham and his many children yet unborn
Honored year by year by shedding blood that ran as rivers
To cover the sins of Adam’s children for another year.
Two thousand year ago, He made a better covenant
Born of the sacrifice of the blood of a spotless lamb,
The first-born child of Mary, and only child of God.
The precious blood that once and forever washed
Man’s sins away and leaving him white as snow.
It was for me His blood was open and spilled out.
It was shed as large drops sweat fell from an anguished face
Grieved to the point of death in the Garden of Gethsemane
Asking for this cup to pass and that He might be released
From the pressure, trails and temptations to come.
They fell as He surrendered His will to the Father’s will.
They fell for I would need His strength to overcome my own trails.
In Herod’s court, He was bruised and beaten for my iniquity.
There he took the wickedness of man inside him
Bleeding internally for the evil and injustices of man.
His innocent blood cleansing my heart and sanctifying it
For only it has the power to wash away my sin.
They placed upon His sacred hallowed head
Not a crown of gold, but a crown of thorns to prick His brow.
As His divine blood was running free, it covered my mind
Freeing it to find victory over Satan lies and releasing me to life.
A cat of nine tails open up His back until the bone was seen.
Scourged to near death He bled for my wellbeing,
So that I might receive total healing in body, mind and spirit.
As a lamb lead to slaughter He headed up Cavalry’s hill.
Hands that offered up blessing and anointing of their creator
Were open wide and nailed in shame to an old wooden cross.
From there His love was poured out as a gift from the Father
To restore, redeem, and purchase sinful man from death’s curse.
The feet that walked on water, too were driven to the stake.
The blood footprints show us the way that we are to walk.
Pointing out the step of ministry that we are to take.
Reminding us of the cost the Father and the Son paid for us.
Last the soldier pierced the side of Jesus
As blood and water burst forth in one last act of love.
The blood that covered my death to self and my resurrection to life
Was poured out lavishly and profusely over me that day.
Nothing but that holy blood has the power to revive my soul.
It cannot be bought or earned, but only freely given and received.
Why He chose to do so for me I will never understand.
Jesus blood is more precious that gold, diamonds, or riches untold
For you see it should have been my blood upon that tree.
When I could not meet the burden of the law
God made a way to bring me back into living covenant
Feeding me with the bread of life and giving me living water to drink
That I might again be filled with glory of fragrance of His love.
Forever will I surround to that precious, treasured. beloved blood
For my salvation rest in the Messiah blood alone.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 3-2010
With our father Abraham and his many children yet unborn
Honored year by year by shedding blood that ran as rivers
To cover the sins of Adam’s children for another year.
Two thousand year ago, He made a better covenant
Born of the sacrifice of the blood of a spotless lamb,
The first-born child of Mary, and only child of God.
The precious blood that once and forever washed
Man’s sins away and leaving him white as snow.
It was for me His blood was open and spilled out.
It was shed as large drops sweat fell from an anguished face
Grieved to the point of death in the Garden of Gethsemane
Asking for this cup to pass and that He might be released
From the pressure, trails and temptations to come.
They fell as He surrendered His will to the Father’s will.
They fell for I would need His strength to overcome my own trails.
In Herod’s court, He was bruised and beaten for my iniquity.
There he took the wickedness of man inside him
Bleeding internally for the evil and injustices of man.
His innocent blood cleansing my heart and sanctifying it
For only it has the power to wash away my sin.
They placed upon His sacred hallowed head
Not a crown of gold, but a crown of thorns to prick His brow.
As His divine blood was running free, it covered my mind
Freeing it to find victory over Satan lies and releasing me to life.
A cat of nine tails open up His back until the bone was seen.
Scourged to near death He bled for my wellbeing,
So that I might receive total healing in body, mind and spirit.
As a lamb lead to slaughter He headed up Cavalry’s hill.
Hands that offered up blessing and anointing of their creator
Were open wide and nailed in shame to an old wooden cross.
From there His love was poured out as a gift from the Father
To restore, redeem, and purchase sinful man from death’s curse.
The feet that walked on water, too were driven to the stake.
The blood footprints show us the way that we are to walk.
Pointing out the step of ministry that we are to take.
Reminding us of the cost the Father and the Son paid for us.
Last the soldier pierced the side of Jesus
As blood and water burst forth in one last act of love.
The blood that covered my death to self and my resurrection to life
Was poured out lavishly and profusely over me that day.
Nothing but that holy blood has the power to revive my soul.
It cannot be bought or earned, but only freely given and received.
Why He chose to do so for me I will never understand.
Jesus blood is more precious that gold, diamonds, or riches untold
For you see it should have been my blood upon that tree.
When I could not meet the burden of the law
God made a way to bring me back into living covenant
Feeding me with the bread of life and giving me living water to drink
That I might again be filled with glory of fragrance of His love.
Forever will I surround to that precious, treasured. beloved blood
For my salvation rest in the Messiah blood alone.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 3-2010
The Promise
I have been angry with God and I have been put to shame.
This clay has said to the potter, “What are you doing?”
I lack understand and wisdom. I thought myself equal to God.
I said I know best and this is not fair.
I presented my case, brought forward my strongest argument.
I cried to God to explain to me His reasoning
But He did not answer me for I was a fool.
Woe has come to me because I have quarreled with my Maker.
The justice due me did not escape the notice of my God
Because of my raging and grumbling against Him
And because of my arrogance and pride.
His hand of blessing He removed from me
And gave to me instead a hook for my nose
That I might learn humility, my power, and my wisdom.
Depression and sorrows were my only friend
And the little faith I had abandon me.
I wandered in the wilderness for many days
Until thirst and starvation over took me.
I could not stand before the consuming fire of the Holy One
And the continual burning within the bitterness of my soul.
As I lay dying I remembered my true form and my spirit cried out,
Was it not the Lord, against whom I have sinned,
And in whose ways I would not walk, and would not obey?
Jesus Christ forgive me once again I begged.
Restore me to health and let me live!
I will again bow my knee to Your will.
I will again offer up to You the sacrifice of Praise.
I will again give thank for all that You have done.
I will again declare Thy faithfulness and goodness.
I will again fall down from the weight of Your Holiness.
I will again bask in Your presences and wonder.
I will again serve my Maker and Creator.
I will again be a witness of Your love.
Not because I deserved it or merit it, but for His own sake
He heard my cry and answered me in His faithfulness.
I will not give My glory to another,
Nor my praise to graven images.
I will have mercy on whom I have mercy,
And I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.
You have burdened Me with your sins,
You have wearied me with your iniquities.
Yet you have not relied on me and have become weary of Me.
It is I who wipe out your transgression for My own sake.
It is I who choose to remember them no more.
You have rejected me, but I not rejected you
Because you have humbled yourself at the foot of the cross.
The grass withers, the flower fades,
But my Word stands forever
My covenant of love I will not break.
You are my servant, whom I have chosen
Descendant of Abraham, my friend.
I am your Redeemer, and the one who formed you from the womb
I have created you for My glory
And you will not be forgotten by me for I am faithful.
I called you by your name, and gave you a title of honor
Though you did not yet know me.
Do not fear, for I am with you,
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am Your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will help You,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name; you are Mine!
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched.
Since you are precious in My sight,
Since you are honored and I love you
I will give other men in your place
And other peoples in exchange for your life.
Do not fear, for I am for you.
I will never leave or forsake you.
Neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities,
Nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing,
Shall be able to separate you from my love.
There is no longer any condemnation in you
For you are know my adopted child set free from slavery.
I am conforming you into the image of my Son.
I will cause all things to work together for your good and my purpose.
You can trust me because heaven and earth will pass away
But My word never will. It is every faithful every true.
It will not return to me void without accomplishing
That which I sent it forth for I am the Great I AM.
It is my good pleasure to give to you every good gift
And every spiritual blessing so that you want for nothing.
Place your faith in me and you will see that it will be.
But above all be still and know that you are loved.
Open up yourself to receive all of me for there
You will find my mercy, my joy, my peace, my hope and my healing.
When the storms come and you cannot see my hand
Look into my face, my eyes, and my heart
And know that all is well with your soul
For He that is in you in greater that he that is in the world.
You have sow in tears but shall reap with joyful shouting
For the Lord your God, the Rock on which you stand
Promises are forever true regardless of what you do.
Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Thy word.
It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Thy statutes.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 2-3-2010
This clay has said to the potter, “What are you doing?”
I lack understand and wisdom. I thought myself equal to God.
I said I know best and this is not fair.
I presented my case, brought forward my strongest argument.
I cried to God to explain to me His reasoning
But He did not answer me for I was a fool.
Woe has come to me because I have quarreled with my Maker.
The justice due me did not escape the notice of my God
Because of my raging and grumbling against Him
And because of my arrogance and pride.
His hand of blessing He removed from me
And gave to me instead a hook for my nose
That I might learn humility, my power, and my wisdom.
Depression and sorrows were my only friend
And the little faith I had abandon me.
I wandered in the wilderness for many days
Until thirst and starvation over took me.
I could not stand before the consuming fire of the Holy One
And the continual burning within the bitterness of my soul.
As I lay dying I remembered my true form and my spirit cried out,
Was it not the Lord, against whom I have sinned,
And in whose ways I would not walk, and would not obey?
Jesus Christ forgive me once again I begged.
Restore me to health and let me live!
I will again bow my knee to Your will.
I will again offer up to You the sacrifice of Praise.
I will again give thank for all that You have done.
I will again declare Thy faithfulness and goodness.
I will again fall down from the weight of Your Holiness.
I will again bask in Your presences and wonder.
I will again serve my Maker and Creator.
I will again be a witness of Your love.
Not because I deserved it or merit it, but for His own sake
He heard my cry and answered me in His faithfulness.
I will not give My glory to another,
Nor my praise to graven images.
I will have mercy on whom I have mercy,
And I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.
You have burdened Me with your sins,
You have wearied me with your iniquities.
Yet you have not relied on me and have become weary of Me.
It is I who wipe out your transgression for My own sake.
It is I who choose to remember them no more.
You have rejected me, but I not rejected you
Because you have humbled yourself at the foot of the cross.
The grass withers, the flower fades,
But my Word stands forever
My covenant of love I will not break.
You are my servant, whom I have chosen
Descendant of Abraham, my friend.
I am your Redeemer, and the one who formed you from the womb
I have created you for My glory
And you will not be forgotten by me for I am faithful.
I called you by your name, and gave you a title of honor
Though you did not yet know me.
Do not fear, for I am with you,
Do not anxiously look about you, for I am Your God.
I will strengthen you, surely I will help You,
Surely I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have called you by name; you are Mine!
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be scorched.
Since you are precious in My sight,
Since you are honored and I love you
I will give other men in your place
And other peoples in exchange for your life.
Do not fear, for I am for you.
I will never leave or forsake you.
Neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities,
Nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers,
Nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing,
Shall be able to separate you from my love.
There is no longer any condemnation in you
For you are know my adopted child set free from slavery.
I am conforming you into the image of my Son.
I will cause all things to work together for your good and my purpose.
You can trust me because heaven and earth will pass away
But My word never will. It is every faithful every true.
It will not return to me void without accomplishing
That which I sent it forth for I am the Great I AM.
It is my good pleasure to give to you every good gift
And every spiritual blessing so that you want for nothing.
Place your faith in me and you will see that it will be.
But above all be still and know that you are loved.
Open up yourself to receive all of me for there
You will find my mercy, my joy, my peace, my hope and my healing.
When the storms come and you cannot see my hand
Look into my face, my eyes, and my heart
And know that all is well with your soul
For He that is in you in greater that he that is in the world.
You have sow in tears but shall reap with joyful shouting
For the Lord your God, the Rock on which you stand
Promises are forever true regardless of what you do.
Before I was afflicted I went astray, but now I keep Thy word.
It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Thy statutes.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 2-3-2010
The Miracle
The Miracle
Two thousand years ago a miracle occurred
For man’s only hope for life, joy and a future
Came down to rest upon unholy ground of mankind.
A miracle occurred for God left heaven’s glorious throne
To live as mortal man in this cursed abode of Adam’s making.
In the fragility of this babe lay the promise of God’s faithfulness.
It so frighten the prince of this earth that he tried to destroy him
Causing his family to have to flee in the middle of the night
While Rachel mourned and could not be comforted
For her children who were no more destroyed by the evil one.
Still a miracle occurred for David’s heir was protected by a dream.
Mankind redeemer lived.
A voice crying in the wilderness announced Messiah’s ministry
And reminded Satan that his time was short to reign.
As he done with Esau the tempter tried to buy Jesus’ birthright,
He tried to trick Christ into temping God to rescue him.
He endeavor to lure and entice the King of kings and Lord of Lord
By offering up a quick and easy way out God’s plan.
A miracle occurred for God’s son was wiser than the serpent
And did not try to be exalted above the Almighty.
Messiah’s arrived humbly on a donkey amidst the fickle praise of man.
He looked compassionately on those he came to save and wept
For they knew Him not and could not recognize Immanuel presence.
Satan saw his chance and deceived Judas into betraying him with a kiss.
The cup that now lay before Jesus was a bitter one to swallow.
The road that he faced was painful, full of sorrow and suffering.
He asked that it be removed, but bowed to His Father’s will.
This perfect holy sinless man agreed to take my sin and shame.
A miracle occurred for he remember my helpless estate
And considered it above his own rights and pleasure.
The Satan and his demons Sorrow and Suffering
Were drunk with joy for they had momentary victory
As the Messiah was nailed to the cross.
Sin and Shame pierce his hands and feet
While Death celebrated, his mighty battle won.
But a miracle occurred for Christ open wide his arms
And chose to stay on the cross for my sake
And said, “This is how much I love you.”
A miracle occurred for I now knew
The gift of love and just what it cost.
Satan’s carousing and revelry came to a sudden stop
When Jesus took the keys from Death’s hand
And open wide the prisons doors setting his captives free.
Too late Lucifer cried, “ What have I done! How did I lose?”
A miracle had occurred for God so loved the world
That he had given his only son.
The gift of life was mine, if I but opened it.
Death no longer was my cruel master.
Just as He had once come looking for lost sheep
I now came to seeking to find the shepherd’s body.
The two angels from God’s mercy seat
Now sat waiting at the head and foot
Of the slab that once held his body
And announced, “He is risen.”
The napkin that covered his face was
Folded neatly as if to say, “ I am coming back”
A miracle occurred for my bridge back
To God was finished and complete.
My debt had been paid in full, my sin forgiven.
My cold black heart melted at such love
Barely able to comprehend just what had happen.
I fell in awe at the wonder of it all.
At the mighty name of Jesus, I bowed my knee
And cried out for forgiveness and mercy.
My scarlet sins now wash a white as new fallen snow.
The angels that Christ held back at the cross
Were now blowing trumpets, and dancing in the streets
For a sinner had come home.
A miracle occurred for I was adopted as a child of God
Christ’s robe of righteousness placed on me
And I was giving me access to come once more before the Father.
He sent His Holy Spirit down as a mighty rushing wind
His grace and mercy encompassed my soul and sealing it forever.
A sacred fire fell down setting my heart ablaze with love
That I might share Him with others.
He sent a quiet voice to guide and teach me his ways
And a jealous spirit to pull me ever near to Him.
A miracle occurred for the Great I AM lives inside of me
And He fills me with His power and life though I deserve it not.
Soon He will return again for His bride
The signs say that the time is near
I looking with longing for my beloved
Eager once more to see his face
To hear His heart beat in unison with mine.
I desire to see Him in his full glory
With all the respect and honor that He deserves.
A miracle will occur that day for we will be in heaven.
Home forever more with all eternity to bask in His love
And Satan will know his finial defeat condemned forever to Hell.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 2-12-2010
Two thousand years ago a miracle occurred
For man’s only hope for life, joy and a future
Came down to rest upon unholy ground of mankind.
A miracle occurred for God left heaven’s glorious throne
To live as mortal man in this cursed abode of Adam’s making.
In the fragility of this babe lay the promise of God’s faithfulness.
It so frighten the prince of this earth that he tried to destroy him
Causing his family to have to flee in the middle of the night
While Rachel mourned and could not be comforted
For her children who were no more destroyed by the evil one.
Still a miracle occurred for David’s heir was protected by a dream.
Mankind redeemer lived.
A voice crying in the wilderness announced Messiah’s ministry
And reminded Satan that his time was short to reign.
As he done with Esau the tempter tried to buy Jesus’ birthright,
He tried to trick Christ into temping God to rescue him.
He endeavor to lure and entice the King of kings and Lord of Lord
By offering up a quick and easy way out God’s plan.
A miracle occurred for God’s son was wiser than the serpent
And did not try to be exalted above the Almighty.
Messiah’s arrived humbly on a donkey amidst the fickle praise of man.
He looked compassionately on those he came to save and wept
For they knew Him not and could not recognize Immanuel presence.
Satan saw his chance and deceived Judas into betraying him with a kiss.
The cup that now lay before Jesus was a bitter one to swallow.
The road that he faced was painful, full of sorrow and suffering.
He asked that it be removed, but bowed to His Father’s will.
This perfect holy sinless man agreed to take my sin and shame.
A miracle occurred for he remember my helpless estate
And considered it above his own rights and pleasure.
The Satan and his demons Sorrow and Suffering
Were drunk with joy for they had momentary victory
As the Messiah was nailed to the cross.
Sin and Shame pierce his hands and feet
While Death celebrated, his mighty battle won.
But a miracle occurred for Christ open wide his arms
And chose to stay on the cross for my sake
And said, “This is how much I love you.”
A miracle occurred for I now knew
The gift of love and just what it cost.
Satan’s carousing and revelry came to a sudden stop
When Jesus took the keys from Death’s hand
And open wide the prisons doors setting his captives free.
Too late Lucifer cried, “ What have I done! How did I lose?”
A miracle had occurred for God so loved the world
That he had given his only son.
The gift of life was mine, if I but opened it.
Death no longer was my cruel master.
Just as He had once come looking for lost sheep
I now came to seeking to find the shepherd’s body.
The two angels from God’s mercy seat
Now sat waiting at the head and foot
Of the slab that once held his body
And announced, “He is risen.”
The napkin that covered his face was
Folded neatly as if to say, “ I am coming back”
A miracle occurred for my bridge back
To God was finished and complete.
My debt had been paid in full, my sin forgiven.
My cold black heart melted at such love
Barely able to comprehend just what had happen.
I fell in awe at the wonder of it all.
At the mighty name of Jesus, I bowed my knee
And cried out for forgiveness and mercy.
My scarlet sins now wash a white as new fallen snow.
The angels that Christ held back at the cross
Were now blowing trumpets, and dancing in the streets
For a sinner had come home.
A miracle occurred for I was adopted as a child of God
Christ’s robe of righteousness placed on me
And I was giving me access to come once more before the Father.
He sent His Holy Spirit down as a mighty rushing wind
His grace and mercy encompassed my soul and sealing it forever.
A sacred fire fell down setting my heart ablaze with love
That I might share Him with others.
He sent a quiet voice to guide and teach me his ways
And a jealous spirit to pull me ever near to Him.
A miracle occurred for the Great I AM lives inside of me
And He fills me with His power and life though I deserve it not.
Soon He will return again for His bride
The signs say that the time is near
I looking with longing for my beloved
Eager once more to see his face
To hear His heart beat in unison with mine.
I desire to see Him in his full glory
With all the respect and honor that He deserves.
A miracle will occur that day for we will be in heaven.
Home forever more with all eternity to bask in His love
And Satan will know his finial defeat condemned forever to Hell.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 2-12-2010
The Miracle
Two thousand years ago a miracle occurred
For man’s only hope for life, joy and a future
Came down to rest upon unholy ground of mankind.
A miracle occurred for God left heaven’s glorious throne
To live as mortal man in this cursed abode of Adam’s making.
In the fragility of this babe lay the promise of God’s faithfulness.
It so frighten the prince of this earth that he tried to destroy him
Causing his family to have to flee in the middle of the night
While Rachel mourned and could not be comforted
For her children who were no more destroyed by the evil one.
Still a miracle occurred for David’s heir was protected by a dream.
Mankind redeemer lived.
A voice crying in the wilderness announced Messiah’s ministry
And reminded Satan that his time was short to reign.
As he done with Esau the tempter tried to buy Jesus’ birthright,
He tried to trick Christ into temping God to rescue him.
He endeavor to lure and entice the King of kings and Lord of Lord
By offering up a quick and easy way out God’s plan.
A miracle occurred for God’s son was wiser than the serpent
And did not try to be exalted above the Almighty.
Messiah’s arrived humbly on a donkey amidst the fickle praise of man.
He looked compassionately on those he came to save and wept
For they knew Him not and could not recognize Immanuel presence.
Satan saw his chance and deceived Judas into betraying him with a kiss.
The cup that now lay before Jesus was a bitter one to swallow.
The road that he faced was painful, full of sorrow and suffering.
He asked that it be removed, but bowed to His Father’s will.
This perfect holy sinless man agreed to take my sin and shame.
A miracle occurred for he remember my helpless estate
And considered it above his own rights and pleasure.
The Satan and his demons Sorrow and Suffering
Were drunk with joy for they had momentary victory
As the Messiah was nailed to the cross.
Sin and Shame pierce his hands and feet
While Death celebrated, his mighty battle won.
But a miracle occurred for Christ open wide his arms
And chose to stay on the cross for my sake
And said, “This is how much I love you.”
A miracle occurred for I now knew
The gift of love and just what it cost.
Satan’s carousing and revelry came to a sudden stop
When Jesus took the keys from Death’s hand
And open wide the prisons doors setting his captives free.
Too late Lucifer cried, “ What have I done! How did I lose?”
A miracle had occurred for God so loved the world
That he had given his only son.
The gift of life was mine, if I but opened it.
Death no longer was my cruel master.
Just as He had once come looking for lost sheep
I now came to seeking to find the shepherd’s body.
The two angels from God’s mercy seat
Now sat waiting at the head and foot
Of the slab that once held his body
And announced, “He is risen.”
The napkin that covered his face was
Folded neatly as if to say, “ I am coming back”
A miracle occurred for my bridge back
To God was finished and complete.
My debt had been paid in full, my sin forgiven.
My cold black heart melted at such love
Barely able to comprehend just what had happen.
I fell in awe at the wonder of it all.
At the mighty name of Jesus, I bowed my knee
And cried out for forgiveness and mercy.
My scarlet sins now wash a white as new fallen snow.
The angels that Christ held back at the cross
Were now blowing trumpets, and dancing in the streets
For a sinner had come home.
A miracle occurred for I was adopted as a child of God
Christ’s robe of righteousness placed on me
And I was giving me access to come once more before the Father.
He sent His Holy Spirit down as a mighty rushing wind
His grace and mercy encompassed my soul and sealing it forever.
A sacred fire fell down setting my heart ablaze with love
That I might share Him with others.
He sent a quiet voice to guide and teach me his ways
And a jealous spirit to pull me ever near to Him.
A miracle occurred for the Great I AM lives inside of me
And He fills me with His power and life though I deserve it not.
Soon He will return again for His bride
The signs say that the time is near
I looking with longing for my beloved
Eager once more to see his face
To hear His heart beat in unison with mine.
I desire to see Him in his full glory
With all the respect and honor that He deserves.
A miracle will occur that day for we will be in heaven.
Home forever more with all eternity to bask in His love
And Satan will know his finial defeat condemned forever to Hell.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 2-12-2010
For man’s only hope for life, joy and a future
Came down to rest upon unholy ground of mankind.
A miracle occurred for God left heaven’s glorious throne
To live as mortal man in this cursed abode of Adam’s making.
In the fragility of this babe lay the promise of God’s faithfulness.
It so frighten the prince of this earth that he tried to destroy him
Causing his family to have to flee in the middle of the night
While Rachel mourned and could not be comforted
For her children who were no more destroyed by the evil one.
Still a miracle occurred for David’s heir was protected by a dream.
Mankind redeemer lived.
A voice crying in the wilderness announced Messiah’s ministry
And reminded Satan that his time was short to reign.
As he done with Esau the tempter tried to buy Jesus’ birthright,
He tried to trick Christ into temping God to rescue him.
He endeavor to lure and entice the King of kings and Lord of Lord
By offering up a quick and easy way out God’s plan.
A miracle occurred for God’s son was wiser than the serpent
And did not try to be exalted above the Almighty.
Messiah’s arrived humbly on a donkey amidst the fickle praise of man.
He looked compassionately on those he came to save and wept
For they knew Him not and could not recognize Immanuel presence.
Satan saw his chance and deceived Judas into betraying him with a kiss.
The cup that now lay before Jesus was a bitter one to swallow.
The road that he faced was painful, full of sorrow and suffering.
He asked that it be removed, but bowed to His Father’s will.
This perfect holy sinless man agreed to take my sin and shame.
A miracle occurred for he remember my helpless estate
And considered it above his own rights and pleasure.
The Satan and his demons Sorrow and Suffering
Were drunk with joy for they had momentary victory
As the Messiah was nailed to the cross.
Sin and Shame pierce his hands and feet
While Death celebrated, his mighty battle won.
But a miracle occurred for Christ open wide his arms
And chose to stay on the cross for my sake
And said, “This is how much I love you.”
A miracle occurred for I now knew
The gift of love and just what it cost.
Satan’s carousing and revelry came to a sudden stop
When Jesus took the keys from Death’s hand
And open wide the prisons doors setting his captives free.
Too late Lucifer cried, “ What have I done! How did I lose?”
A miracle had occurred for God so loved the world
That he had given his only son.
The gift of life was mine, if I but opened it.
Death no longer was my cruel master.
Just as He had once come looking for lost sheep
I now came to seeking to find the shepherd’s body.
The two angels from God’s mercy seat
Now sat waiting at the head and foot
Of the slab that once held his body
And announced, “He is risen.”
The napkin that covered his face was
Folded neatly as if to say, “ I am coming back”
A miracle occurred for my bridge back
To God was finished and complete.
My debt had been paid in full, my sin forgiven.
My cold black heart melted at such love
Barely able to comprehend just what had happen.
I fell in awe at the wonder of it all.
At the mighty name of Jesus, I bowed my knee
And cried out for forgiveness and mercy.
My scarlet sins now wash a white as new fallen snow.
The angels that Christ held back at the cross
Were now blowing trumpets, and dancing in the streets
For a sinner had come home.
A miracle occurred for I was adopted as a child of God
Christ’s robe of righteousness placed on me
And I was giving me access to come once more before the Father.
He sent His Holy Spirit down as a mighty rushing wind
His grace and mercy encompassed my soul and sealing it forever.
A sacred fire fell down setting my heart ablaze with love
That I might share Him with others.
He sent a quiet voice to guide and teach me his ways
And a jealous spirit to pull me ever near to Him.
A miracle occurred for the Great I AM lives inside of me
And He fills me with His power and life though I deserve it not.
Soon He will return again for His bride
The signs say that the time is near
I looking with longing for my beloved
Eager once more to see his face
To hear His heart beat in unison with mine.
I desire to see Him in his full glory
With all the respect and honor that He deserves.
A miracle will occur that day for we will be in heaven.
Home forever more with all eternity to bask in His love
And Satan will know his finial defeat condemned forever to Hell.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 2-12-2010
The Precipice
We stand at a dangerous precipice. We need to remove the veil from our eyes before we take another step or we will fall to death.
Israel once had the mighty God, I AM, as their protector and provider. They asked to be like all the other nations and have a king instead. This nation was founded on God, but we too have turn to government for all the answers. Our President has stated that we are not and have never been a Christian nation. We have taken God out of our schools and children are no longer taught the nation true roots. They cannot pray to God but can be required to recite Islamic prayers in the name of tolerance and understanding. Our courts have ruled against God’s laws (abortion being one example) and one state has already adopted Muslin law. Our dependence on the government bailouts and handouts is leading us from an economic crises to a world government and loss of freedom. What our soldiers have fought and died for we are handing over with our inactions. God will not force Himself on this nation, and He has already started to remove His hand and allow us to have the leader we have chosen. God has said to American what he said to Israel. (1 Samuel 8:7) “Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them.” We need to remember the king he promised to reign over us will take your sons and daughters as soldiers and slaves, will take the best of your fields and harvest, and be a cruel master. However, when the day comes and we cry out against this king the Lord will not hear us if we continue in sin. 2 Chronicles 7:14 said, “If My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
Do you love this nation? Why are our pews not full of Christian begging for forgiveness for her? Why are we not on our faces asking His forgiveness for our idolatry, for God is a jealous God and we are not to chase after other gods? Are you making your voice heard to Uncle Sam?
Moses was a mighty man of God handpicked by God to lead the His people to the promise land. The law was given first to Moses and then to the people. It was with him that God spoke face to face and reviled His heart and mind. Because Miriam spoke again God’s servant Moses she was leprous, (Number 12:9). Korah and two hundred others assembled together against Moses and Aaron and said to them. “You have gone far enough, for all the congregation are holy, everyone of them, and the Lord is in their midst; so why do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?”( Number 16:3) For this action, the Lord open the grounds mouth and swallow them up and they descend alive into Sheol. (Number 16:20)
We still have might men of God called by God to be the shepherds of His flocks. Today many are afraid to speak God’s truth for the people only want a feel good messages. People have lost the sense of right and wrong because of it. Most church members come out of habit, not true desire. At best they want to know about God, but not to know Him for knowing Him would cost. Sadly, they often leave the way they came in untouched for they do not receive His word. These lost sheep are not willing to follow the direction of the shepherd unwilling to change their directions or desires. We need to catch the vision of godly preachers and follow in their footsteps. We need to trust those that we elected as pastors to guide us. The Lord is pouring out a new revitalized spirit across this land, one that is needed for the end times, one that is powerful enough to perform miracles and make a difference in lives. We much shake off our fears and embrace it. We need to rediscover the joy of worship and stop looking like dead men walking. We need to find God’s heart for the lost. We need to be happy with nothing less than knowing all of Him and getting lost in His love being our greatest desire.
Why are our church empty? Is there any long a difference between the world and us? Why are people leaving instead of getting right with God? Do you know a church where a godly man is preaching? You need to be in it. Do you know a man filled with the spirit of God? You need to be following his teaching and example.
Anyone with any spiritual eye can tell you that the end times are here. Everything points to Jesus return. Today or tomorrow, I do not know, but soon. When He comes back, will you be hiding in fear or dancing with glee? There is a way that seen right to man but lead to death. There is a chasm between God and man, and we stand on the precipice separated by our sin. Soon it will be too late to choose between heaven and hell. Not that we ever did, but now more than ever we do not have the luxury of putting off the decision to follow God or not. Jesus is that bridge have you accepted Him? He is the way, the truth and life. Choose life while you still can. Are you saved, great are you doing anything to lead others to Him? Are you serving Him? Are you looking for His return?
We stand on the precipice. Lord remove the veil before we take another step our nation, Your bride the church, and our souls depend on it. Without you we will die. Open up our eyes to see the spirit’s call to heavenly things and not just this world. Open our ears that we may hear God’s voice and not Satan lies. Let us follow Jesus footsteps even if it means we must walk on water. Let our spirit’s voice swell up in us and call with moaning of heart to know God’s love and presence once again in our life. Melt our hearts and give us a willing spirit. Let us look again to see Christ’s face and not just His hand. Hear again your wayward child’s call for forgiveness and healing. Accept again Your bride’s praise and joyful worship. Fill us once again with the joy, love, peace, hope and power of Your name. Give to us the wisdom to follow Your call where ever it may take us.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-31-09
Israel once had the mighty God, I AM, as their protector and provider. They asked to be like all the other nations and have a king instead. This nation was founded on God, but we too have turn to government for all the answers. Our President has stated that we are not and have never been a Christian nation. We have taken God out of our schools and children are no longer taught the nation true roots. They cannot pray to God but can be required to recite Islamic prayers in the name of tolerance and understanding. Our courts have ruled against God’s laws (abortion being one example) and one state has already adopted Muslin law. Our dependence on the government bailouts and handouts is leading us from an economic crises to a world government and loss of freedom. What our soldiers have fought and died for we are handing over with our inactions. God will not force Himself on this nation, and He has already started to remove His hand and allow us to have the leader we have chosen. God has said to American what he said to Israel. (1 Samuel 8:7) “Listen to the voice of the people in regard to all they say to you, for they have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me from being king over them.” We need to remember the king he promised to reign over us will take your sons and daughters as soldiers and slaves, will take the best of your fields and harvest, and be a cruel master. However, when the day comes and we cry out against this king the Lord will not hear us if we continue in sin. 2 Chronicles 7:14 said, “If My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.”
Do you love this nation? Why are our pews not full of Christian begging for forgiveness for her? Why are we not on our faces asking His forgiveness for our idolatry, for God is a jealous God and we are not to chase after other gods? Are you making your voice heard to Uncle Sam?
Moses was a mighty man of God handpicked by God to lead the His people to the promise land. The law was given first to Moses and then to the people. It was with him that God spoke face to face and reviled His heart and mind. Because Miriam spoke again God’s servant Moses she was leprous, (Number 12:9). Korah and two hundred others assembled together against Moses and Aaron and said to them. “You have gone far enough, for all the congregation are holy, everyone of them, and the Lord is in their midst; so why do you exalt yourselves above the assembly of the Lord?”( Number 16:3) For this action, the Lord open the grounds mouth and swallow them up and they descend alive into Sheol. (Number 16:20)
We still have might men of God called by God to be the shepherds of His flocks. Today many are afraid to speak God’s truth for the people only want a feel good messages. People have lost the sense of right and wrong because of it. Most church members come out of habit, not true desire. At best they want to know about God, but not to know Him for knowing Him would cost. Sadly, they often leave the way they came in untouched for they do not receive His word. These lost sheep are not willing to follow the direction of the shepherd unwilling to change their directions or desires. We need to catch the vision of godly preachers and follow in their footsteps. We need to trust those that we elected as pastors to guide us. The Lord is pouring out a new revitalized spirit across this land, one that is needed for the end times, one that is powerful enough to perform miracles and make a difference in lives. We much shake off our fears and embrace it. We need to rediscover the joy of worship and stop looking like dead men walking. We need to find God’s heart for the lost. We need to be happy with nothing less than knowing all of Him and getting lost in His love being our greatest desire.
Why are our church empty? Is there any long a difference between the world and us? Why are people leaving instead of getting right with God? Do you know a church where a godly man is preaching? You need to be in it. Do you know a man filled with the spirit of God? You need to be following his teaching and example.
Anyone with any spiritual eye can tell you that the end times are here. Everything points to Jesus return. Today or tomorrow, I do not know, but soon. When He comes back, will you be hiding in fear or dancing with glee? There is a way that seen right to man but lead to death. There is a chasm between God and man, and we stand on the precipice separated by our sin. Soon it will be too late to choose between heaven and hell. Not that we ever did, but now more than ever we do not have the luxury of putting off the decision to follow God or not. Jesus is that bridge have you accepted Him? He is the way, the truth and life. Choose life while you still can. Are you saved, great are you doing anything to lead others to Him? Are you serving Him? Are you looking for His return?
We stand on the precipice. Lord remove the veil before we take another step our nation, Your bride the church, and our souls depend on it. Without you we will die. Open up our eyes to see the spirit’s call to heavenly things and not just this world. Open our ears that we may hear God’s voice and not Satan lies. Let us follow Jesus footsteps even if it means we must walk on water. Let our spirit’s voice swell up in us and call with moaning of heart to know God’s love and presence once again in our life. Melt our hearts and give us a willing spirit. Let us look again to see Christ’s face and not just His hand. Hear again your wayward child’s call for forgiveness and healing. Accept again Your bride’s praise and joyful worship. Fill us once again with the joy, love, peace, hope and power of Your name. Give to us the wisdom to follow Your call where ever it may take us.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-31-09
Things that You have done
Lord, how do I count the things that You have done?
They are as numerous as the sands on the shore or the stars in the sky.
They are as small as an ant and as big as the universe.
Every day You bless us with glorious sunrise and sunset.
Each one is matchless, irreplaceable and exceptional in magnificence splendor.
You cause the sun to shine on us; giving us warmth, light and life.
You gave the stars and moon that we might find our way in darkness.
You cause the seasons to change bringing new miracles with each one
From the changing of the leaves, to new growth and buds bursting forth.
Your deeds are as great as setting the water in heaven and the sea in their place.
You send the rains that give life and cause the earth to bring forth fruit and feed all things.
Has anyone ever made a garden as gorgeous, exquisite and perfect as Your?
You supply the very air we breathe without which we would die.
You place the blessing of new life in each of Your creations to come forth at their time.
Yet the smallest detail of the lowest creature was not designed by chance
There is nothing insignificant to You and You considered all of life’s requirements
From the butterflies’ wings, to the elephant’s nose, to whale’s blow spout,
To the number of leaves on ivy, to the moss hidden beneath the snow, or tallest tree.
How many types of plants and animals are there? Can anybody count them?
A thousand years have passed and we are still finding new ones.
Yet You know the number of hairs on our head
And where the robin will find her food or make her nest.
Not one snowflake is like another one. Each one is unique just as You planned.
There are fish that never see the light of day yet, You know their path.
You blessed the daylily with a beautiful gown even though it last but a day.
The mighty mountains lift up their heads unto heaven reaching for Your glory.
The valleys fall down and bow before Your presents.
The great Red Sea blushed and parted at Your say,
And Galilee water’s stood still at your voice.
The Ocean’s waves keep their place forever bound by Your hand.
Every living thing declares Your greatness, Your love and Your glory.
Life and death lay in Your hands. Time itself is at Your command.
You made the angels and the souls of men that will never pass away.
Everything that You created was good, and complete but one, Man.
You created man in Your image to be Your child, Your bride, and Your friend.
You endowed him with every good gift, wisdom, and unbounded love.
You gave to him the ability to choose good and evil,
But man was not yet complete so having never know a lie he fell into sin’s allure
Not knowing the cost or that it lead to death, he embraced its call.
He had not learned to bend his ways to Yours, nor that it was You that gave him power.
He had not known yet the true meaning of the depth and power of love.
He had not the wisdom to know that Your ways are best and not his own.
He believed that he could be equal to Your person.
Yet as with all creation, You had a plan for redemption
For You could see the past, present and future.
Lord, how do I count the things that You have done?
Before man knew or cared that he was lost You came looking for him.
You left the brilliance, wonder and grandeur of heaven
Where every second Your were worshiped and praised has King
To come into a world that had no room for You and knew You not.
You gave up the ability to be everywhere, everyplace, and know everything
To be a helpless babe trapped in a dying body dependent upon man.
You went from angels bowing before You, to lowly shepherds.
You went from heaven golden throne to a simple trough of hay.
You traded Your robe of white for swaddling clothes.
You went from a world of no sadness, sorrows or tears
To the earth below so that You would know our weakness and temptations.
You went form a world of health and wealth to one of sickness and poverty.
For this mighty act of love, You were hated, despised and rejected by man.
In time You grew into a man, yet You knew no sin.
Still the world placed its shame upon your shoulders.
You spoke of love with every breathe You took.
You had mercy for the sick, healing the hurting, freeing the captives.
Not once did You turn one person away unchanged.
Life giving miracles You gave, asking nothing in return.
Each need You met completely and perfectly in Your time.
You fed the hungry and thirsty in both their body and soul.
You cried for man to come back into a place of right standing with God.
Man ears where open yet he still did not hear because his heart was cold.
His eye saw the wonders and was in awe but did not understand.
Man was so use to making his own way that he missed God’s way.
So yet again, You humbled Yourself and allow man’s courts authority to rule.
You know that sin had a price, and that righteousness demanded it to be paid in full.
Man had yet to ask forgiveness and knew not his folly.
But yet again, You humbled Yourself into the Father plan and will.
You took the abuse, the cruelty, the exploitation, the violence and insults of man.
Jesus freely walked a road to Cavalry that man could not, so that man might live.
You open wide Your arms and said this is love. See how much I love You.
I came to break the curse of death on you.
I came that you might know life again.
I came that you might know joy and forgiveness.
I came that you might have a future and a hope again.
I came to bring my lost sheep safely home.
Lord, how do I count the things that You have done?
They are as unimportant as hearing my selfish prayer.
They are as earthshaking as saving my soul.
They are as tender as Your never ending mercies.
They are as powerful as Your forgiveness that washes me clean.
Your blessing are undeserved and total without merit.
My choices demanded my death.
Yet You stand before the Father and say I claim this one.
Assure her that she is loved and acceptable.
Give to her all the rights, privileges, and blessing that You would give me.
Take away all unworthiness. See her as holy because I am holy.
Love her because she loves me and calls upon my name.
Hear and answer her prayers as You would mine.
Pour out the healing oil upon her heart and soul restoring its joy, and peace
Touch her shoulders and removing all life’s burdens.
Rest the Holy Spirit in her to teach her and guide her.
Give to her every spiritual blessing and every good thing.
Set Your angels around her to guard and protect her.
Lord, how do I count the things that You have done?
How does one say thanks for saving me from death and Hell?
How does one say thanks for that kind of Love?
I know not how. Eternity is not enough time.
To give all the praise and thanks that You deserve
And each new day brings only more.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-03-09
They are as numerous as the sands on the shore or the stars in the sky.
They are as small as an ant and as big as the universe.
Every day You bless us with glorious sunrise and sunset.
Each one is matchless, irreplaceable and exceptional in magnificence splendor.
You cause the sun to shine on us; giving us warmth, light and life.
You gave the stars and moon that we might find our way in darkness.
You cause the seasons to change bringing new miracles with each one
From the changing of the leaves, to new growth and buds bursting forth.
Your deeds are as great as setting the water in heaven and the sea in their place.
You send the rains that give life and cause the earth to bring forth fruit and feed all things.
Has anyone ever made a garden as gorgeous, exquisite and perfect as Your?
You supply the very air we breathe without which we would die.
You place the blessing of new life in each of Your creations to come forth at their time.
Yet the smallest detail of the lowest creature was not designed by chance
There is nothing insignificant to You and You considered all of life’s requirements
From the butterflies’ wings, to the elephant’s nose, to whale’s blow spout,
To the number of leaves on ivy, to the moss hidden beneath the snow, or tallest tree.
How many types of plants and animals are there? Can anybody count them?
A thousand years have passed and we are still finding new ones.
Yet You know the number of hairs on our head
And where the robin will find her food or make her nest.
Not one snowflake is like another one. Each one is unique just as You planned.
There are fish that never see the light of day yet, You know their path.
You blessed the daylily with a beautiful gown even though it last but a day.
The mighty mountains lift up their heads unto heaven reaching for Your glory.
The valleys fall down and bow before Your presents.
The great Red Sea blushed and parted at Your say,
And Galilee water’s stood still at your voice.
The Ocean’s waves keep their place forever bound by Your hand.
Every living thing declares Your greatness, Your love and Your glory.
Life and death lay in Your hands. Time itself is at Your command.
You made the angels and the souls of men that will never pass away.
Everything that You created was good, and complete but one, Man.
You created man in Your image to be Your child, Your bride, and Your friend.
You endowed him with every good gift, wisdom, and unbounded love.
You gave to him the ability to choose good and evil,
But man was not yet complete so having never know a lie he fell into sin’s allure
Not knowing the cost or that it lead to death, he embraced its call.
He had not learned to bend his ways to Yours, nor that it was You that gave him power.
He had not known yet the true meaning of the depth and power of love.
He had not the wisdom to know that Your ways are best and not his own.
He believed that he could be equal to Your person.
Yet as with all creation, You had a plan for redemption
For You could see the past, present and future.
Lord, how do I count the things that You have done?
Before man knew or cared that he was lost You came looking for him.
You left the brilliance, wonder and grandeur of heaven
Where every second Your were worshiped and praised has King
To come into a world that had no room for You and knew You not.
You gave up the ability to be everywhere, everyplace, and know everything
To be a helpless babe trapped in a dying body dependent upon man.
You went from angels bowing before You, to lowly shepherds.
You went from heaven golden throne to a simple trough of hay.
You traded Your robe of white for swaddling clothes.
You went from a world of no sadness, sorrows or tears
To the earth below so that You would know our weakness and temptations.
You went form a world of health and wealth to one of sickness and poverty.
For this mighty act of love, You were hated, despised and rejected by man.
In time You grew into a man, yet You knew no sin.
Still the world placed its shame upon your shoulders.
You spoke of love with every breathe You took.
You had mercy for the sick, healing the hurting, freeing the captives.
Not once did You turn one person away unchanged.
Life giving miracles You gave, asking nothing in return.
Each need You met completely and perfectly in Your time.
You fed the hungry and thirsty in both their body and soul.
You cried for man to come back into a place of right standing with God.
Man ears where open yet he still did not hear because his heart was cold.
His eye saw the wonders and was in awe but did not understand.
Man was so use to making his own way that he missed God’s way.
So yet again, You humbled Yourself and allow man’s courts authority to rule.
You know that sin had a price, and that righteousness demanded it to be paid in full.
Man had yet to ask forgiveness and knew not his folly.
But yet again, You humbled Yourself into the Father plan and will.
You took the abuse, the cruelty, the exploitation, the violence and insults of man.
Jesus freely walked a road to Cavalry that man could not, so that man might live.
You open wide Your arms and said this is love. See how much I love You.
I came to break the curse of death on you.
I came that you might know life again.
I came that you might know joy and forgiveness.
I came that you might have a future and a hope again.
I came to bring my lost sheep safely home.
Lord, how do I count the things that You have done?
They are as unimportant as hearing my selfish prayer.
They are as earthshaking as saving my soul.
They are as tender as Your never ending mercies.
They are as powerful as Your forgiveness that washes me clean.
Your blessing are undeserved and total without merit.
My choices demanded my death.
Yet You stand before the Father and say I claim this one.
Assure her that she is loved and acceptable.
Give to her all the rights, privileges, and blessing that You would give me.
Take away all unworthiness. See her as holy because I am holy.
Love her because she loves me and calls upon my name.
Hear and answer her prayers as You would mine.
Pour out the healing oil upon her heart and soul restoring its joy, and peace
Touch her shoulders and removing all life’s burdens.
Rest the Holy Spirit in her to teach her and guide her.
Give to her every spiritual blessing and every good thing.
Set Your angels around her to guard and protect her.
Lord, how do I count the things that You have done?
How does one say thanks for saving me from death and Hell?
How does one say thanks for that kind of Love?
I know not how. Eternity is not enough time.
To give all the praise and thanks that You deserve
And each new day brings only more.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-03-09
The Tale of a Murderer
The Tale of a Murderer
And a Father’s Love
Once upon a time, there was a very wealthy and powerful man. He was a good man, a fair man, and just man. He had an only child, a son, that he loved very much. This child was the apple of his eye and there was nothing that the father would not give him or do for him. The child loved his father just as much.
The child grew into a man and was very much like his father. Like his father, he was a good man and there was no evil in him, only love. All the laws of the land, and desired of his father, he carefully obeyed. He used his wealth and power to feed the hunger, to provide care for the sick, the blind, the deaf, the lame, and meet their needs, just as he had seen his father do. The people love him because he was generous and good. He was kind and compensated to all. Unlike others, he did not despise or look down on the homeless, lost or abused, or think of himself as better than them. Not afraid to get his hands dirty, he spent his time with the prostitutes, the junkies, the thieves, the prisoners and the poor telling them that they were loved and there was a better life for them than what they were living. Many a dying man was saved by him, for he offered them a better way, a fresh start, a new live and hope.
The common people loved him, but the leaders not so much. He had pointed out their faults and by comparison, they were cold and heartless. They feared that the people would love him more than them. They had flaunted their power and prestige while condemning the common man, pointing out all of his faults. Worst yet he had publicly disgraced them and said that they were no better than the vilest offender was. Each day they hated him more and more.
They spoke to the crowd and to me saying you are no less than he is. All of us have it in our power to be like him. If you had his wealth and wisdom then you would be just like him. He is no different or better than you are. You do not owe him anything. It is simple luck that he was born into that household. There is not just one way but many ways that lead to power and happiness. Think of all the things you could do if you had his resources. You could do anything you wanted, have anything you want. Nothing could stop you. All you have to do is take it. Who is he to tell you what you must do? Who does he think he is anyway, God? We believed their lies and they stirred the evil in our heart. In our blood lust, a mob of us took him prisoner, tortured and murdered him. It was only afterwards that we realized what we had done.
Only as I sat wait for my day in court did I comprehend fully that I had murdered a man that had never done me harm. It was too late to take it back and I was about to receive the reward of my action. I stood covered in guilt and shame before the judge and he asked my plea. Did I kill Jesus? There were too many witnesses for me even to think about pleading innocent. Ever careless word I said, ever action I had taken had been recorded. So I pleas guilt and threw myself on the mercy of the court hoping for life in prison verse the death I knew I deserved.
I saw his father there in court. You could feel his pain. I want to say something, but I dared not speak for everything was to lame. I am sorry I killed you only son. I did not know what I was doing; I was just carried away by the heat of the moment. I did not know that it was wrong. If I had been born to, different parents or different circumstances I would have not needed to do it. He deserved it. I knew the truth. I choose to follow my desires, my wants and did not care what it cost anyone else. Somehow, I thought that I would never have to pay the price for my choices.
The judge pronounced my sentence, death. It was the justice that I deserved. The father rose, spoke, and asked mercy. He said his son death was enough. He requested that I be released unto his hands and his care. The judge agreed. I expected vengeance for the murder of his son. We, I had been exceeding cruel and hateful. I had mocked him, beat him, striped him naked, gambled for his clothing, and pierced his tattered body, nailed him to a tree and left him there to die of suffocation. As if that was not enough, I had stuck a spear in his side just to make sure he was dead. I wonder what form of torture and death awaited me. At best, I thought that he would take me as a slave to do his every bidding. Never again would I be able to do anything I wanted. Never again would I have anything.
He took me home and gave me his son’s room. He told me that he forgave me and that he would treat me as his son, adopting me as his own. He said I could have anything that was his sons and if I needed anything, all I had to do was ask. He sent servants in to feed and care for me. At first, I thought it a trick; surely, he would kill me in my sleep. He wanted me to know what I could have had and choose to throw away. In time, I stopped fearing for my life.
In time I asked what would happen if I tried to leave. He said it would make him break his heart, but to look around there had never been any guards. He said he would not force me to stay against my will. I had been given all the rights and inheritance of his son, but I could leave and return to my former state if I wished. I did not understand him or know what to think. He had not given me what I deserved, but had instead given me the gift of grace to be his child. All I had to do was to take it.
He had shown me so much love that I would be a fool for leaving and so I stayed. I had learned to love him, because he loved me when I was unloveable. Although he has never brought it up again I remember who I was. I asked him one day how he could love me when I was so unworthy and unclean. Father said it is not who I am that allows him to love me. He said love is who he is and he can do no different.
His love is so sweet I cannot begin to tell you. Each day I find myself wanting to be closer to him and more like him. Never do I want to leave his presence for in it is the hope, the joy, the peace, and the love I was looking for. His house is big and all are welcome will you not come and see for yourself. I promise you will never be the same for if he can change me he can change anyone. Do you need love? Come!
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-25-09
And a Father’s Love
Once upon a time, there was a very wealthy and powerful man. He was a good man, a fair man, and just man. He had an only child, a son, that he loved very much. This child was the apple of his eye and there was nothing that the father would not give him or do for him. The child loved his father just as much.
The child grew into a man and was very much like his father. Like his father, he was a good man and there was no evil in him, only love. All the laws of the land, and desired of his father, he carefully obeyed. He used his wealth and power to feed the hunger, to provide care for the sick, the blind, the deaf, the lame, and meet their needs, just as he had seen his father do. The people love him because he was generous and good. He was kind and compensated to all. Unlike others, he did not despise or look down on the homeless, lost or abused, or think of himself as better than them. Not afraid to get his hands dirty, he spent his time with the prostitutes, the junkies, the thieves, the prisoners and the poor telling them that they were loved and there was a better life for them than what they were living. Many a dying man was saved by him, for he offered them a better way, a fresh start, a new live and hope.
The common people loved him, but the leaders not so much. He had pointed out their faults and by comparison, they were cold and heartless. They feared that the people would love him more than them. They had flaunted their power and prestige while condemning the common man, pointing out all of his faults. Worst yet he had publicly disgraced them and said that they were no better than the vilest offender was. Each day they hated him more and more.
They spoke to the crowd and to me saying you are no less than he is. All of us have it in our power to be like him. If you had his wealth and wisdom then you would be just like him. He is no different or better than you are. You do not owe him anything. It is simple luck that he was born into that household. There is not just one way but many ways that lead to power and happiness. Think of all the things you could do if you had his resources. You could do anything you wanted, have anything you want. Nothing could stop you. All you have to do is take it. Who is he to tell you what you must do? Who does he think he is anyway, God? We believed their lies and they stirred the evil in our heart. In our blood lust, a mob of us took him prisoner, tortured and murdered him. It was only afterwards that we realized what we had done.
Only as I sat wait for my day in court did I comprehend fully that I had murdered a man that had never done me harm. It was too late to take it back and I was about to receive the reward of my action. I stood covered in guilt and shame before the judge and he asked my plea. Did I kill Jesus? There were too many witnesses for me even to think about pleading innocent. Ever careless word I said, ever action I had taken had been recorded. So I pleas guilt and threw myself on the mercy of the court hoping for life in prison verse the death I knew I deserved.
I saw his father there in court. You could feel his pain. I want to say something, but I dared not speak for everything was to lame. I am sorry I killed you only son. I did not know what I was doing; I was just carried away by the heat of the moment. I did not know that it was wrong. If I had been born to, different parents or different circumstances I would have not needed to do it. He deserved it. I knew the truth. I choose to follow my desires, my wants and did not care what it cost anyone else. Somehow, I thought that I would never have to pay the price for my choices.
The judge pronounced my sentence, death. It was the justice that I deserved. The father rose, spoke, and asked mercy. He said his son death was enough. He requested that I be released unto his hands and his care. The judge agreed. I expected vengeance for the murder of his son. We, I had been exceeding cruel and hateful. I had mocked him, beat him, striped him naked, gambled for his clothing, and pierced his tattered body, nailed him to a tree and left him there to die of suffocation. As if that was not enough, I had stuck a spear in his side just to make sure he was dead. I wonder what form of torture and death awaited me. At best, I thought that he would take me as a slave to do his every bidding. Never again would I be able to do anything I wanted. Never again would I have anything.
He took me home and gave me his son’s room. He told me that he forgave me and that he would treat me as his son, adopting me as his own. He said I could have anything that was his sons and if I needed anything, all I had to do was ask. He sent servants in to feed and care for me. At first, I thought it a trick; surely, he would kill me in my sleep. He wanted me to know what I could have had and choose to throw away. In time, I stopped fearing for my life.
In time I asked what would happen if I tried to leave. He said it would make him break his heart, but to look around there had never been any guards. He said he would not force me to stay against my will. I had been given all the rights and inheritance of his son, but I could leave and return to my former state if I wished. I did not understand him or know what to think. He had not given me what I deserved, but had instead given me the gift of grace to be his child. All I had to do was to take it.
He had shown me so much love that I would be a fool for leaving and so I stayed. I had learned to love him, because he loved me when I was unloveable. Although he has never brought it up again I remember who I was. I asked him one day how he could love me when I was so unworthy and unclean. Father said it is not who I am that allows him to love me. He said love is who he is and he can do no different.
His love is so sweet I cannot begin to tell you. Each day I find myself wanting to be closer to him and more like him. Never do I want to leave his presence for in it is the hope, the joy, the peace, and the love I was looking for. His house is big and all are welcome will you not come and see for yourself. I promise you will never be the same for if he can change me he can change anyone. Do you need love? Come!
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-25-09
The Battle
I stand at the foot of a great mountain overwhelm by it difficulty.
Its peaks are considerable and formidable obstacles.
It seems frightening, terrifying and arduous.
I shrink away intimidated by the difficultly of overcoming it.
I ask how I can ever gain victory in this situation.
The thought of another war crushes and devastates my soul.
Fear and doubt begin to engulf my hope and still my joy.
My spirit says that it has fallen down for the last time
It cannot climb again to the top of the summit.
I look up in the distance to see a banner on the zenith.
It cries out for conquest, triumph, and success to prevail.
Its trumpets sound the cries to arise once more for battle.
The call comes to take substance and prepare yourself for combat.
Drink of the living water, and eat of the bread of life and word of truth
That you may be renewed and strengthen.
Pick up your shield and go forward with hind’s feet
Covering your situation with prayers and trust in God.
Lift up your eyes to see heaven’s warriors for you are not alone.
Wrestle and struggle with the conflict of doubts no more
For He that is in you is great that he that is in the world.
It is in the power of the name of Jesus and the blood of Christ that defeats all foes.
It is faith in the power of the cross that causes the mountains to surrender.
So stand strong and to not be tossed about by the fray
And rally to the banner holding tight to its standard.
It is only a matter of time until defeat is admitted
And Satan relinquishes his temperate hold on all the spoils of war.
I take heart for the victory is ours, we cannot be defeated.
Christ has already won the war.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-3-09
Its peaks are considerable and formidable obstacles.
It seems frightening, terrifying and arduous.
I shrink away intimidated by the difficultly of overcoming it.
I ask how I can ever gain victory in this situation.
The thought of another war crushes and devastates my soul.
Fear and doubt begin to engulf my hope and still my joy.
My spirit says that it has fallen down for the last time
It cannot climb again to the top of the summit.
I look up in the distance to see a banner on the zenith.
It cries out for conquest, triumph, and success to prevail.
Its trumpets sound the cries to arise once more for battle.
The call comes to take substance and prepare yourself for combat.
Drink of the living water, and eat of the bread of life and word of truth
That you may be renewed and strengthen.
Pick up your shield and go forward with hind’s feet
Covering your situation with prayers and trust in God.
Lift up your eyes to see heaven’s warriors for you are not alone.
Wrestle and struggle with the conflict of doubts no more
For He that is in you is great that he that is in the world.
It is in the power of the name of Jesus and the blood of Christ that defeats all foes.
It is faith in the power of the cross that causes the mountains to surrender.
So stand strong and to not be tossed about by the fray
And rally to the banner holding tight to its standard.
It is only a matter of time until defeat is admitted
And Satan relinquishes his temperate hold on all the spoils of war.
I take heart for the victory is ours, we cannot be defeated.
Christ has already won the war.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-3-09
The Babe
Come let us worship the newborn King, sleeping in Bethlehem.
The babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and laying in a manger.
Come let us praise He, who brings salvations to the souls of man.
The son of God was born in a lowly stable in the quiet of the night
While all the world slept unaware of their deliverance.
God came down in the form of an infant and dwelled with man.
The cattle and ox stood and watched in wonder at the sight.
His birth was announced by the angels’ sweet song across the heavens
To the shepherd watching over their flocks of sheep,
While a star of great beauty pointed man’s way.
Angels stood guarding the future of the world and sang a lullaby.
Let us bow in thanksgiving to Him of whom all creation sings.
Allow us look adoringly upon the face of the sleeping babe.
Hallelujah! Worthy is the Lamb so sweet and innocent.
Oh, heart skip and dance for joy at this precious priceless gift
Send down from heaven’s glories to restore man.
Reach out and take it freely inside the depth of your soul.
May you never take it for granted or be too busy to remember it.
Sleep peacefully oh little Lion of Judah, grow strong.
The time is coming when your roar will be heard around the world
And the mention of Your name will cause creation to tremble.
Let us kneel before your cradle and give honor and glory
To the one that will one day rule the heavens and all nature.
Freely and lovingly, let us surrender our hearts to this child.
Let us bring the gift of praise to Him alone
For He alone is holy, without sin or guilty.
Throw down your crowns and lay your treasure at His feet
In submission to the perfect, will of the Messiah.
Let us look with awe upon His face and the Holy life-giving light
That radiated from His simple presents into the darkness of the world.
Let our hearts remain resting in the peace that He brings.
Let our souls drink in the joy of the His long awaited coming
And its promise of mercy and grace penetrate inside our being.
There was no room for Him there so many years ago
Today let our ears hear His knock and open wide the door
To the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ.
Let the gates of Jerusalem raise her voice in song once more
The promise of Israel, Mary’s babe, Immanuel,
The Star of David has returned to bring joy to the world.
Welcome, the mighty and everlasting master of our souls,
We receive your blessings and we will glorify your name
For all that you have done for us until time cease to exist.
Happy birthday, my Lord Jesus Christ.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-12-09
The babe wrapped in swaddling clothes and laying in a manger.
Come let us praise He, who brings salvations to the souls of man.
The son of God was born in a lowly stable in the quiet of the night
While all the world slept unaware of their deliverance.
God came down in the form of an infant and dwelled with man.
The cattle and ox stood and watched in wonder at the sight.
His birth was announced by the angels’ sweet song across the heavens
To the shepherd watching over their flocks of sheep,
While a star of great beauty pointed man’s way.
Angels stood guarding the future of the world and sang a lullaby.
Let us bow in thanksgiving to Him of whom all creation sings.
Allow us look adoringly upon the face of the sleeping babe.
Hallelujah! Worthy is the Lamb so sweet and innocent.
Oh, heart skip and dance for joy at this precious priceless gift
Send down from heaven’s glories to restore man.
Reach out and take it freely inside the depth of your soul.
May you never take it for granted or be too busy to remember it.
Sleep peacefully oh little Lion of Judah, grow strong.
The time is coming when your roar will be heard around the world
And the mention of Your name will cause creation to tremble.
Let us kneel before your cradle and give honor and glory
To the one that will one day rule the heavens and all nature.
Freely and lovingly, let us surrender our hearts to this child.
Let us bring the gift of praise to Him alone
For He alone is holy, without sin or guilty.
Throw down your crowns and lay your treasure at His feet
In submission to the perfect, will of the Messiah.
Let us look with awe upon His face and the Holy life-giving light
That radiated from His simple presents into the darkness of the world.
Let our hearts remain resting in the peace that He brings.
Let our souls drink in the joy of the His long awaited coming
And its promise of mercy and grace penetrate inside our being.
There was no room for Him there so many years ago
Today let our ears hear His knock and open wide the door
To the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, Jesus Christ.
Let the gates of Jerusalem raise her voice in song once more
The promise of Israel, Mary’s babe, Immanuel,
The Star of David has returned to bring joy to the world.
Welcome, the mighty and everlasting master of our souls,
We receive your blessings and we will glorify your name
For all that you have done for us until time cease to exist.
Happy birthday, my Lord Jesus Christ.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 12-12-09
Trust
Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight. It sounds so simple yet so impossible. If I had not been so broken by life’s disappointments I wonder if it would be just as hard. But, other things have failed me; family, friend, jobs, possessions, love, and health I find myself doubting the Lord.
It is so hard for me to trust in that which I cannot yet see. I trust the sun will come up in the morning and the moon at night for I have never known a day when it did not. It is easy to trust when there is no test. But, what do we trust when we are in the fire and the flames are getting higher. We trust that there is a God. Nature and life proclaim it. We know without a doubt that we are not that perfect, and that wise. It is the first step.
We trust that He is bigger than we are. If you are like me you already tried and failed to do the job. You have been unable to blend the world to your desires. God spoke and made the Heavens and the Earth, flood the Earth when there had been no rain, parted the Red Sea, brought water from a desert rock, and raised the dead. Therefore, we fall back on trusting in a God bigger than ourselves. Step two we acknowledge that He can for if He cannot there is no hope.
Next come the hard question will He do it for me. Do I trust God enough to believe what He says about me? He says that I am loved, that I have value, that I have been bought with a price, and nothing can take me out of His hand. I am His child and that He has a hope and a future for me. It does not come easy for I know who I am, and who He is. God did it for David, for Paul, for Abraham, for the women at the well, and for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. He has never turn anyone away or said you are not good enough. Christ blood will always cover us if we but ask forgiveness and He bestows on us His righteousness.
Fourth comes the real test do I trust Him enough to do the things He said I can. Can I stand and speak forth the things that He has said to be, or do I tremble in fear and said I cannot do it? Do I give up because I cannot see what is around the corner? Do I believe the lies and curses that other have spoken of me, or take my value from my Father?
Trust may not be easy for me, but it is not just wishful thinking. It is based on something more. I look at a chair and judge whether it will hold my weight for I have sat in chairs before and I have seen others sit. I have seen the Lord do for others and I have seen what He has done in the past for me. I have not been put to shame as Baal believers, for just as He did for Elijah, He has always answered me. He has not always answered in my time or the way I would have chosen, but He has answered. Still, I do not base my hope on what someone else has said about a stranger, but on a Father, I know. Therefore, when things look their darkest with no way of escape, I look for the light and trust that it will be there. I can go through the fire for I am not alone. I may fall down and be singed by my unbelief, but I will regain my sense, rise again, and run into the victory that He has promised for I know whom I have placed my trust and I know whom I have believed. The fire is never pleasant, nor the testing fun, but each time when it is over I am closer to Him. I do not have to understand the why of it, only be purified by the process. So I stretch my heart one more time and said, “ I can do all things through Him who strengthen me.”
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 5-23-09
It is so hard for me to trust in that which I cannot yet see. I trust the sun will come up in the morning and the moon at night for I have never known a day when it did not. It is easy to trust when there is no test. But, what do we trust when we are in the fire and the flames are getting higher. We trust that there is a God. Nature and life proclaim it. We know without a doubt that we are not that perfect, and that wise. It is the first step.
We trust that He is bigger than we are. If you are like me you already tried and failed to do the job. You have been unable to blend the world to your desires. God spoke and made the Heavens and the Earth, flood the Earth when there had been no rain, parted the Red Sea, brought water from a desert rock, and raised the dead. Therefore, we fall back on trusting in a God bigger than ourselves. Step two we acknowledge that He can for if He cannot there is no hope.
Next come the hard question will He do it for me. Do I trust God enough to believe what He says about me? He says that I am loved, that I have value, that I have been bought with a price, and nothing can take me out of His hand. I am His child and that He has a hope and a future for me. It does not come easy for I know who I am, and who He is. God did it for David, for Paul, for Abraham, for the women at the well, and for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-nego. He has never turn anyone away or said you are not good enough. Christ blood will always cover us if we but ask forgiveness and He bestows on us His righteousness.
Fourth comes the real test do I trust Him enough to do the things He said I can. Can I stand and speak forth the things that He has said to be, or do I tremble in fear and said I cannot do it? Do I give up because I cannot see what is around the corner? Do I believe the lies and curses that other have spoken of me, or take my value from my Father?
Trust may not be easy for me, but it is not just wishful thinking. It is based on something more. I look at a chair and judge whether it will hold my weight for I have sat in chairs before and I have seen others sit. I have seen the Lord do for others and I have seen what He has done in the past for me. I have not been put to shame as Baal believers, for just as He did for Elijah, He has always answered me. He has not always answered in my time or the way I would have chosen, but He has answered. Still, I do not base my hope on what someone else has said about a stranger, but on a Father, I know. Therefore, when things look their darkest with no way of escape, I look for the light and trust that it will be there. I can go through the fire for I am not alone. I may fall down and be singed by my unbelief, but I will regain my sense, rise again, and run into the victory that He has promised for I know whom I have placed my trust and I know whom I have believed. The fire is never pleasant, nor the testing fun, but each time when it is over I am closer to Him. I do not have to understand the why of it, only be purified by the process. So I stretch my heart one more time and said, “ I can do all things through Him who strengthen me.”
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 5-23-09
True Worship
I get up early Sunday Morning and get all dress up.
I grab a donut and drink and head off to church.
I go to Sunday school and said hello to friends.
We visit and talk about our troubles and our day.
The choir and sing the same songs, we always have.
Hymns that tell us what God can do for us.
The members sit in their same old seats so everyone is comfortable
The service is the same order so everyone knows what to expect.
The sermon is given and rarely does anybody change.
We see no miracles, no angels, no outpouring of God’s presences.
We see no great victories in our lives, no difference from the world.
The alter is not filled with lost sinners or the backslidden.
Nor is it filled with the saints’ worship and prayers.
The service lasts the same amount of time
For if the invitation runs long there be Hell to pay.
They past the plate and take up money, we grudgingly give.
And we often leave the same way as we come in
Sadly never having met with God or worshiped Him.
I not quite sure when or how
But somewhere along the way it stop being worship.
The focus shifted from what God wants and meeting Him
To our wants, needs and what makes us comfortable.
But this is not true worship, just it trappings.
He takes no more pleasure in it than burnt bulls or sheep.
I am true sorry Lord, for what I have allowed it to become.
This is not what I want in my life
And I ask Your forgiveness.
My focus needs to be on meeting with You
And spending quality time with You, not just going to Your house.
My focus needs to be on getting closer to You as a friend.
Understanding Your heart and mind better.
Friends take time to listen and to share.
They are grateful for chance to be together.
They listen and value each other’s advice
Even when what they say is not what we do want to hear
Because we know that it is said in love.
They laugh, they talk for hours and lose track of time.
They sing, they clap hands, shout and enjoy each other’s company.
They cry, they weep, and comfort one another when they hurt.
Their heart breaks if they think they have offended the other.
They cry when they know they hurt the other.
They put the others wishes first.
They go out of their way to please the other.
They encourage, strength and give gifts to each other.
They remember what the other has done
And are thankful for each act of kindness.
They consider themselves blessed for know them.
They will lay down their life for their friend.
Christ will always be that friend, should do less for Him?
My focus needs to be on discovering Your will for my life.
My comfort keeps You from freely moving
For I expect You to do no miracles, or healings.
I don’t look for You to put the right person next to me
For me to witness to or encourage.
You should be allowed to planning the service
As You would have it to be done.
Even if that means we need to stay because You touch someone’s heart.
You made me, You have a plan for me. I need to find it.
You have dreams of good for me, You like to see implement in my life.
I need to search them out, and honor Christ by following them.
After all I am Your servant, bought at a costly price.
Yet You have always been a gentle and kind Master.
One I would chose to serve even if I were free.
My focus needs to be on honoring my Father
For the life and love, that He has given me.
I need to spending time just bouncing on His knee,
Listening to bedtime stories,
Giving hugs and kisses,
And returning the love he has given me.
For he choose to adapt me has His own child
And He delights in giving me good gifts.
My focus needs to be on listen to the Holy Spirit.
He is so wise and smarter than I. I need to learn all I can from Him.
So I don’t have to learn the hard way what does not work.
He even tell me how to success and prosper.
The truth will save me pain if I will but listen
And He does not make rules just to spoil my fun.
But because He is older and wiser than I.
If I will follow Him, He will keep me out of harm’s way.
And last My focus needs to be on God
Just he because He is the Great I Am.
He is good, kind, sweet, merciful, and gracious.
He is pure, holy, wise, powerful, faithful and just.
He is my Creator, giver of life and I the clay in His hand.
He is my Savior that died on a cross for my sin
And rose again that I might live a blessed life on earth
And rule with Him one day in Heaven.
And He deserves my praise and my worship.
And He desires my focus to be on Him.
He wants me to look into His eyes and heart
Not just what His hands can do for me,
Not just what I need.
For that is true worship.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 6-7-09
I grab a donut and drink and head off to church.
I go to Sunday school and said hello to friends.
We visit and talk about our troubles and our day.
The choir and sing the same songs, we always have.
Hymns that tell us what God can do for us.
The members sit in their same old seats so everyone is comfortable
The service is the same order so everyone knows what to expect.
The sermon is given and rarely does anybody change.
We see no miracles, no angels, no outpouring of God’s presences.
We see no great victories in our lives, no difference from the world.
The alter is not filled with lost sinners or the backslidden.
Nor is it filled with the saints’ worship and prayers.
The service lasts the same amount of time
For if the invitation runs long there be Hell to pay.
They past the plate and take up money, we grudgingly give.
And we often leave the same way as we come in
Sadly never having met with God or worshiped Him.
I not quite sure when or how
But somewhere along the way it stop being worship.
The focus shifted from what God wants and meeting Him
To our wants, needs and what makes us comfortable.
But this is not true worship, just it trappings.
He takes no more pleasure in it than burnt bulls or sheep.
I am true sorry Lord, for what I have allowed it to become.
This is not what I want in my life
And I ask Your forgiveness.
My focus needs to be on meeting with You
And spending quality time with You, not just going to Your house.
My focus needs to be on getting closer to You as a friend.
Understanding Your heart and mind better.
Friends take time to listen and to share.
They are grateful for chance to be together.
They listen and value each other’s advice
Even when what they say is not what we do want to hear
Because we know that it is said in love.
They laugh, they talk for hours and lose track of time.
They sing, they clap hands, shout and enjoy each other’s company.
They cry, they weep, and comfort one another when they hurt.
Their heart breaks if they think they have offended the other.
They cry when they know they hurt the other.
They put the others wishes first.
They go out of their way to please the other.
They encourage, strength and give gifts to each other.
They remember what the other has done
And are thankful for each act of kindness.
They consider themselves blessed for know them.
They will lay down their life for their friend.
Christ will always be that friend, should do less for Him?
My focus needs to be on discovering Your will for my life.
My comfort keeps You from freely moving
For I expect You to do no miracles, or healings.
I don’t look for You to put the right person next to me
For me to witness to or encourage.
You should be allowed to planning the service
As You would have it to be done.
Even if that means we need to stay because You touch someone’s heart.
You made me, You have a plan for me. I need to find it.
You have dreams of good for me, You like to see implement in my life.
I need to search them out, and honor Christ by following them.
After all I am Your servant, bought at a costly price.
Yet You have always been a gentle and kind Master.
One I would chose to serve even if I were free.
My focus needs to be on honoring my Father
For the life and love, that He has given me.
I need to spending time just bouncing on His knee,
Listening to bedtime stories,
Giving hugs and kisses,
And returning the love he has given me.
For he choose to adapt me has His own child
And He delights in giving me good gifts.
My focus needs to be on listen to the Holy Spirit.
He is so wise and smarter than I. I need to learn all I can from Him.
So I don’t have to learn the hard way what does not work.
He even tell me how to success and prosper.
The truth will save me pain if I will but listen
And He does not make rules just to spoil my fun.
But because He is older and wiser than I.
If I will follow Him, He will keep me out of harm’s way.
And last My focus needs to be on God
Just he because He is the Great I Am.
He is good, kind, sweet, merciful, and gracious.
He is pure, holy, wise, powerful, faithful and just.
He is my Creator, giver of life and I the clay in His hand.
He is my Savior that died on a cross for my sin
And rose again that I might live a blessed life on earth
And rule with Him one day in Heaven.
And He deserves my praise and my worship.
And He desires my focus to be on Him.
He wants me to look into His eyes and heart
Not just what His hands can do for me,
Not just what I need.
For that is true worship.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 6-7-09
Trials
Trials come in many forms. Some are simple: the flat tire, the promotion that went to someone less qualified, the temptation to goof off when no one is looking, or the annoying neighbor. Others are more challenging: the wayward child, the lost of a loved one, not knowing where we will sleep or what we will eat, the abusive relationship, and the doctor that said there is nothing else that he can do.
We all have them, some of us it seems more than our share. They make or break us for we will rise or fall to them. They are meant to show us our hearts and what we truly believe for our heart easily deceives us. They are meant to drive us back to God. If we do not learn the lessons, He is faithful to repeat them until we do. It is by this testing that we grow and are refined and purified into the image of Christ. While no one in their right mind welcomes life’s trials, we should not be surprised by them either for we have good company.
Christ faced many trials and showed us how we should come through. His first, would He give up his right to be worshiped as God and become a servant to man and His father? He chose to humble himself and leave heaven. Would he give up his right to be anywhere he wanted and do anything he wanted? He chose to become a helpless babe lying in a manager. Would he give up his right to all the power in the universe? He chose to become man with all his limitations.
Of all the children ever born He alone could have said I know more than you know to his mother and step father and been right. He chose to obey. He offered the sacrifice of a lamb at the temple. Could we have knowing that one day it would be our blood? Would we be willing to give up our right to holiness and take upon us sin and death? Would we be willing to cut off all communication with the Father we held most dear to our heart? He did. Would we be will to follow the Fathers plan, or would we have said there has to be another way and refused? Would we have said that it is just too much to ask and turn our back? He did not.
He did not have to go into the wilderness and fast for forty days. He chose to search for God. He could have cast Satan away with one word, but he chose to be an example to us and use God’s word. He could have accepted Satan’s offer to rule the world for it was His to rule. He chose to follow His Father plan and timing and not His own. Are we not lucky that He is not as selfish and impatient as we are? He had other minor trials. He was hungry when fig tree had no fruit. He was tired enough to sleep on a boat that was going under. One he loved denied him him three times. He saw his friends died and wept over them. Some of his family never accepted him. The leaders of the day and people of his hometown rejected and despised him when he was right. He chose to endure.
Then there were major trials in his life. So many times, I am grateful that the Lord does not show me what is ahead, but Jesus Christ could see Gethsemane and the road to Calvary. He chose to walk it to show his love for me, knowing that I would be the one to drive the nails in him. He chose to do His father will and make a way back home for me to be with God. The pain, the shame, the curse, and the sentence He willing took for me, when He had in His power to call ten thousand angles to take Him from it. I would not have had to think about it for I minute. I would not have laid down my life for me. He faced deaths trial and chose to descend into Hell and set it captives free. He chose a love so great the angles still sing about it and sinners such as I still bend their knee and hearts.
When the flames of the trials that I face are rising higher, and I am tempted to say too much, I cannot stand. I remember Him, and whatever I am facing seems small. I draw upon His strength and love for He is merciful and kind. I run to my rock, my fortress, my deliver, my stronghold for He is my protection and healer. I cling to His word and His promises for He is faithful and true. I believe that it will be all be worth it when I get to the other side.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 6-13-09
We all have them, some of us it seems more than our share. They make or break us for we will rise or fall to them. They are meant to show us our hearts and what we truly believe for our heart easily deceives us. They are meant to drive us back to God. If we do not learn the lessons, He is faithful to repeat them until we do. It is by this testing that we grow and are refined and purified into the image of Christ. While no one in their right mind welcomes life’s trials, we should not be surprised by them either for we have good company.
Christ faced many trials and showed us how we should come through. His first, would He give up his right to be worshiped as God and become a servant to man and His father? He chose to humble himself and leave heaven. Would he give up his right to be anywhere he wanted and do anything he wanted? He chose to become a helpless babe lying in a manager. Would he give up his right to all the power in the universe? He chose to become man with all his limitations.
Of all the children ever born He alone could have said I know more than you know to his mother and step father and been right. He chose to obey. He offered the sacrifice of a lamb at the temple. Could we have knowing that one day it would be our blood? Would we be willing to give up our right to holiness and take upon us sin and death? Would we be willing to cut off all communication with the Father we held most dear to our heart? He did. Would we be will to follow the Fathers plan, or would we have said there has to be another way and refused? Would we have said that it is just too much to ask and turn our back? He did not.
He did not have to go into the wilderness and fast for forty days. He chose to search for God. He could have cast Satan away with one word, but he chose to be an example to us and use God’s word. He could have accepted Satan’s offer to rule the world for it was His to rule. He chose to follow His Father plan and timing and not His own. Are we not lucky that He is not as selfish and impatient as we are? He had other minor trials. He was hungry when fig tree had no fruit. He was tired enough to sleep on a boat that was going under. One he loved denied him him three times. He saw his friends died and wept over them. Some of his family never accepted him. The leaders of the day and people of his hometown rejected and despised him when he was right. He chose to endure.
Then there were major trials in his life. So many times, I am grateful that the Lord does not show me what is ahead, but Jesus Christ could see Gethsemane and the road to Calvary. He chose to walk it to show his love for me, knowing that I would be the one to drive the nails in him. He chose to do His father will and make a way back home for me to be with God. The pain, the shame, the curse, and the sentence He willing took for me, when He had in His power to call ten thousand angles to take Him from it. I would not have had to think about it for I minute. I would not have laid down my life for me. He faced deaths trial and chose to descend into Hell and set it captives free. He chose a love so great the angles still sing about it and sinners such as I still bend their knee and hearts.
When the flames of the trials that I face are rising higher, and I am tempted to say too much, I cannot stand. I remember Him, and whatever I am facing seems small. I draw upon His strength and love for He is merciful and kind. I run to my rock, my fortress, my deliver, my stronghold for He is my protection and healer. I cling to His word and His promises for He is faithful and true. I believe that it will be all be worth it when I get to the other side.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 6-13-09
Tremble at God's Love
Oh, Lord my God, Adonai
I tremble at Your presences.
Your holiness and righteousness
Cause me to fall down in awe of You.
How does one stand before such splendor?
The power of Your love
Makes me to shake and quiver within
My heart jumping and skipping beats.
It is beyond my ability to comprehend.
It is so strong that I can hardly believe it’s true.
No one else loves as You do
Totally , completely and unconditionally.
It is absolutely beautiful, and perfect
Pleasing and exquisite like a flawless diamond.
It is superb and magnificent above
Anything that man can give to me.
It is more precious that pure gold or silvers.
It is too wonderful for me to grasp and understand
I cannot wrap my mind around its unyielding strength
For nothing can break it away from me.
You know everything about me, yet You still love me.
You love me when others would turn away from me.
You love me despite of selfish and evil thoughts
You love me when I am unlovable and full of hate.
You love me when even I cannot love me.
You may despise my actions but never me.
You even adopt me as Your own child.
You pour out Your spirit on me renewing my soul.
You are always with me, and you never abandon me.
I do not have to be afraid of everything for You are there.
You protect me from the storms of life.
You are peace and a safe port in the storm.
You do not leave me to make my own way
With no hope, no future, and no joy
But You make a way for me when there is none.
You provide for my every need.
You even give to me the authority to act
In Your name and Your powerful might.
You are a true and faithful friend.
You are happy to see me and spend time with me.
You are never too busy to listen to my heart.
You cry with me, You laugh with me, You comfort me.
You desire to give good gifts to me.
It pleases You to see me happy and successful.
You chart a course for my benefit and pleasure.
Blessing upon blessing You give to servant.
You are my master, but I do not have to be afraid of You.
For You are so gentle, so kind, so caring, and so tender.
My shame and disgrace bring You no joy.
You are willing to share all that You have with me;
Your blessings of power, victory, health and prosperity.
You wipe away my every tear and bind my heartaches.
Your love knows no limits and is everlasting.
I can do nothing to cause You to forsake me.
You are faithful to forgive my failing if I but ask
And You never bring them up again.
It is hard for me even to accept that kind of love.
I have been hurt so many times
That Your I love feels wrong
And it is painful to me even to hear to spoke.
Still my soul cries out for that kind of love
And I would die a thousand deaths without it.
How do you say thanks for a love
That is willing to die for me?
How do you give enough praise
To the one who paid my debt?
How do you give enough glory
To the one who gave me His righteousness?
How can I return that kind of love?
Can I write enough praise?
Can I sing enough hymns?
Can I serve enough?
Can I give enough sacrifice?
Maybe in a thousand years I can make a start.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 7-23-09
I tremble at Your presences.
Your holiness and righteousness
Cause me to fall down in awe of You.
How does one stand before such splendor?
The power of Your love
Makes me to shake and quiver within
My heart jumping and skipping beats.
It is beyond my ability to comprehend.
It is so strong that I can hardly believe it’s true.
No one else loves as You do
Totally , completely and unconditionally.
It is absolutely beautiful, and perfect
Pleasing and exquisite like a flawless diamond.
It is superb and magnificent above
Anything that man can give to me.
It is more precious that pure gold or silvers.
It is too wonderful for me to grasp and understand
I cannot wrap my mind around its unyielding strength
For nothing can break it away from me.
You know everything about me, yet You still love me.
You love me when others would turn away from me.
You love me despite of selfish and evil thoughts
You love me when I am unlovable and full of hate.
You love me when even I cannot love me.
You may despise my actions but never me.
You even adopt me as Your own child.
You pour out Your spirit on me renewing my soul.
You are always with me, and you never abandon me.
I do not have to be afraid of everything for You are there.
You protect me from the storms of life.
You are peace and a safe port in the storm.
You do not leave me to make my own way
With no hope, no future, and no joy
But You make a way for me when there is none.
You provide for my every need.
You even give to me the authority to act
In Your name and Your powerful might.
You are a true and faithful friend.
You are happy to see me and spend time with me.
You are never too busy to listen to my heart.
You cry with me, You laugh with me, You comfort me.
You desire to give good gifts to me.
It pleases You to see me happy and successful.
You chart a course for my benefit and pleasure.
Blessing upon blessing You give to servant.
You are my master, but I do not have to be afraid of You.
For You are so gentle, so kind, so caring, and so tender.
My shame and disgrace bring You no joy.
You are willing to share all that You have with me;
Your blessings of power, victory, health and prosperity.
You wipe away my every tear and bind my heartaches.
Your love knows no limits and is everlasting.
I can do nothing to cause You to forsake me.
You are faithful to forgive my failing if I but ask
And You never bring them up again.
It is hard for me even to accept that kind of love.
I have been hurt so many times
That Your I love feels wrong
And it is painful to me even to hear to spoke.
Still my soul cries out for that kind of love
And I would die a thousand deaths without it.
How do you say thanks for a love
That is willing to die for me?
How do you give enough praise
To the one who paid my debt?
How do you give enough glory
To the one who gave me His righteousness?
How can I return that kind of love?
Can I write enough praise?
Can I sing enough hymns?
Can I serve enough?
Can I give enough sacrifice?
Maybe in a thousand years I can make a start.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 7-23-09
Traditions
Like the fiddler on the roof, we all have our traditions.
Some traditions are joyful and exciting
The smell of gingerbread baking at Christmas.
Packages strode underneath the Christmas tree.
Dyeing Easter eggs bright colors and hiding them all around.
Cake covered with candles and ice cream for birthdays.
Something borrowed something blue.
Hitting the stores for the big sale days.
Big yellow buses starting their first running in September back to school.
Some traditions are minor and a nuance.
The return lines after the holidays.
Your favorite team is always loosing.
Politicians talking too long and taxes keep going up.
Someone is always beating you to the last piece of cake.
Vacations are never being long enough or just as planned.
There is never enough time to do it all in just one summer.
The flat tire that always comes when you are busy.
The dollars that never make it to the end of the month.
Some traditions however just should not be.
Sing songs of praise while looking like you ate a lemon.
Speaking blessing and curses with the same lips.
Showing up for church on Sunday, but never meeting God
And leaving as dry and lifeless as when you came in.
Knowing what your brother did wrong, but not yourself.
Quenching the Spirit, for He might not kept our time schedule
Or act in a way that we deem unbecoming.
Listening to the Word, but never hearing, never responding.
Watching the clock, and marking off your weekly time as done
While never opening the word or praying between times.
Some traditions need broken for they do not serve us.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 5-23-09
Some traditions are joyful and exciting
The smell of gingerbread baking at Christmas.
Packages strode underneath the Christmas tree.
Dyeing Easter eggs bright colors and hiding them all around.
Cake covered with candles and ice cream for birthdays.
Something borrowed something blue.
Hitting the stores for the big sale days.
Big yellow buses starting their first running in September back to school.
Some traditions are minor and a nuance.
The return lines after the holidays.
Your favorite team is always loosing.
Politicians talking too long and taxes keep going up.
Someone is always beating you to the last piece of cake.
Vacations are never being long enough or just as planned.
There is never enough time to do it all in just one summer.
The flat tire that always comes when you are busy.
The dollars that never make it to the end of the month.
Some traditions however just should not be.
Sing songs of praise while looking like you ate a lemon.
Speaking blessing and curses with the same lips.
Showing up for church on Sunday, but never meeting God
And leaving as dry and lifeless as when you came in.
Knowing what your brother did wrong, but not yourself.
Quenching the Spirit, for He might not kept our time schedule
Or act in a way that we deem unbecoming.
Listening to the Word, but never hearing, never responding.
Watching the clock, and marking off your weekly time as done
While never opening the word or praying between times.
Some traditions need broken for they do not serve us.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 5-23-09
Tongues
I have been taught from early days that tongues are
For those that are not quite all there,
For those that are weird and strange
For they cannot control their tongues.
They speak in languages that even they do not know,
Harsh clamming sounds that come from the Devil.
And they fall down and shake all over the place
Or run up and down the aisle like a madman
As if some great mystery has captured them
And bound their freewill and taken captive their bodies.
These tales come from those who fear the different
Those who are set in their traditions.
And sadly even some of those who speak talk as if it is not normal.
They are all lies the Devil’s spun to invoke fear
To hold people in bondage and powerless.
To a man dying of cancer
The thought of getting hands and oil on them
Seem a small price to pay for being healed. So he asks.
I had accepted Christ but saw no victory in my life.
I that believed those lie about tongues until one day
The thought of one more powerless day
One more day without joy or hope
Was more than I could take.
I realized that I did not even know what to pray
And I was missing part of His blessing.
Like the dying man, I asked for healing
And brace myself for what was to come.
Ready to be strange and peculiar if it brought relieve.
Ready to surrender every part of me to Jesus
Even my tongue and reputation.
Inside there was a stirring of my soul
A fire that set ablaze my longing for intimacy with God
The energy forced my heart to sing it praise.
Syllables came up from deep within my soul to my mouth
At first with help, and then one or two sounds on my own.
Soon words flowed to heaven on their own.
They were sweet and beautiful to my ear, a loving melody.
I did not know what they meant, I did not care, my chains were gone.
I did know the freedom that I felt,
As if a thousand pounds was lifted from my shoulders.
As praise went up the blessings came down
Peace filled my soul deep inside it core
And pushed out all fear from its hiding places.
A peace that can look at the storm as say, be still your safe.
A peace that knows without a doubt that everything will be all right.
A peace that starts at your head and flow down to your soul.
It was followed by power, not the power that I expected
For I looking for something to zap me and make miracles happen.
Instead it was a quite power, that built up faith in me.
One that said yes you can do it through Him. Get up.
You can believe and see your mountains move before you.
The joy that came was so wonderful, so sweet, so delightful.
Like the sun sings of a new and happy day and send forth it light.
Like the look on a mother the first time, she sees her child’s face.
Like that of a father that thought his child lost and dead
But now sees him running home to him.
If it had stopped there, I still would have been blessed
But I would have missed the best.
For it awoke in me the Holy Spirit.
Time and space seemed frozen for the moment
In that perfect knowledge and understanding.
I had felt God’s and Christ’s presences before
But somehow missed the person within me.
And yes I shook and trembled at that revelation
And if there had been an aisle to run, I might have.
I am still in awe of His presences inside this lowly vessel.
God has chosen to make his home in me.
So that I am never alone to face my fears
And always have someone to fight for my victory.
He is a friend closer than a brother is.
He speak quietly to my heart and mind
And teaches me how to pray and what to ask.
He tells me that whatever I need, He has it.
Tongues is an awesome wonderful gift from above,
It is quite natural if you let go of your fears.
The Holy Spirit is with you not controlling you against your will.
And you can call me crazy for wanting it,
But you are crazier if you do not and I pity you.
I know why Satan worked so hard to fan the fire of fears
For he knows that once we truly join with the Holy Spirit
He can never remove us from God
And he has lost forever his power and hold on us forever.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 6-4-09
For those that are not quite all there,
For those that are weird and strange
For they cannot control their tongues.
They speak in languages that even they do not know,
Harsh clamming sounds that come from the Devil.
And they fall down and shake all over the place
Or run up and down the aisle like a madman
As if some great mystery has captured them
And bound their freewill and taken captive their bodies.
These tales come from those who fear the different
Those who are set in their traditions.
And sadly even some of those who speak talk as if it is not normal.
They are all lies the Devil’s spun to invoke fear
To hold people in bondage and powerless.
To a man dying of cancer
The thought of getting hands and oil on them
Seem a small price to pay for being healed. So he asks.
I had accepted Christ but saw no victory in my life.
I that believed those lie about tongues until one day
The thought of one more powerless day
One more day without joy or hope
Was more than I could take.
I realized that I did not even know what to pray
And I was missing part of His blessing.
Like the dying man, I asked for healing
And brace myself for what was to come.
Ready to be strange and peculiar if it brought relieve.
Ready to surrender every part of me to Jesus
Even my tongue and reputation.
Inside there was a stirring of my soul
A fire that set ablaze my longing for intimacy with God
The energy forced my heart to sing it praise.
Syllables came up from deep within my soul to my mouth
At first with help, and then one or two sounds on my own.
Soon words flowed to heaven on their own.
They were sweet and beautiful to my ear, a loving melody.
I did not know what they meant, I did not care, my chains were gone.
I did know the freedom that I felt,
As if a thousand pounds was lifted from my shoulders.
As praise went up the blessings came down
Peace filled my soul deep inside it core
And pushed out all fear from its hiding places.
A peace that can look at the storm as say, be still your safe.
A peace that knows without a doubt that everything will be all right.
A peace that starts at your head and flow down to your soul.
It was followed by power, not the power that I expected
For I looking for something to zap me and make miracles happen.
Instead it was a quite power, that built up faith in me.
One that said yes you can do it through Him. Get up.
You can believe and see your mountains move before you.
The joy that came was so wonderful, so sweet, so delightful.
Like the sun sings of a new and happy day and send forth it light.
Like the look on a mother the first time, she sees her child’s face.
Like that of a father that thought his child lost and dead
But now sees him running home to him.
If it had stopped there, I still would have been blessed
But I would have missed the best.
For it awoke in me the Holy Spirit.
Time and space seemed frozen for the moment
In that perfect knowledge and understanding.
I had felt God’s and Christ’s presences before
But somehow missed the person within me.
And yes I shook and trembled at that revelation
And if there had been an aisle to run, I might have.
I am still in awe of His presences inside this lowly vessel.
God has chosen to make his home in me.
So that I am never alone to face my fears
And always have someone to fight for my victory.
He is a friend closer than a brother is.
He speak quietly to my heart and mind
And teaches me how to pray and what to ask.
He tells me that whatever I need, He has it.
Tongues is an awesome wonderful gift from above,
It is quite natural if you let go of your fears.
The Holy Spirit is with you not controlling you against your will.
And you can call me crazy for wanting it,
But you are crazier if you do not and I pity you.
I know why Satan worked so hard to fan the fire of fears
For he knows that once we truly join with the Holy Spirit
He can never remove us from God
And he has lost forever his power and hold on us forever.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 6-4-09
The Wedding Invitation
You are invited to the wedding of the century,
The weddings of all wedding.
A celebration of joy and love.
On the happiest and holiest day of days.
The bride and groom will come absolutely perfect.
Holy and a pure, waiting to become one.
Their eyes filled with love only for each other,
They have waited a long time for this day.
No bride and groom will every have been decked out is such fine array.
Have you ever seen a more beautiful couple?
Oh, It will be a sight to see. You can’t afford to miss it.
All the important people will be there.
The bride, the groom, of course,
The Father of the bride, family
Leaders from the Nations, Judges, Noble prizewinners,
Singers, Doctors, Teachers, Preachers, Bankers, Entertainers,
The well to do and the not so well do are all invited.
Absolutely everyone who is anyone will be there.
It is going to be grand, Like nothing you ever see before.
It is so big even Gabriel might show up.
Are you coming? Have you made plans?
I am going. Are You?
Do you know what you will wear?
Will you be ready? Don’t be late.
The angels of God Almighty will herald the trumpet call to come.
This time it will be God’s own son that is the groom.
Jesus Christ, himself, will arrive as the King He is.
His snow white robe covered with a flowing purple cape.
A crown of Gold upon His head.
The groom will stand while songs are sung of his praise.
Every knee will bow in respect and homage.
Stories of His greatness, faithfulness and love will be told.
Cries of Holy, Holy, Holy and blessed be his name,
Thanks for His life giving blood will be proclaimed.
Praise raised on high and too numerous to count
Will fill the heavens from one end to the other.
The angles will add their voices and instruments to the song.
Will there ever be so sweet a sound?
No ear has heard such melodies.
He has come for his beautiful bride, the church.
His precious one that he values more than death, will be complete.
The bride decked out in long robes of white, they shine so bright.
Precious stones and pearls embroidered into silk sewn from the finest seamstress.
For now she too is pure, holy, having a heart only for him.
No more will she cry, and weep,
No more will she fear death, sickness, pain or sorrow.
She will know instead, sweetness, joy uncontainable and love unsurpassed.
Her beloved has come to claim her. She will forever more sit at His side.
She will want for nothing, but to spent more time with him,
And thank him for his mercies and His perfect love.
The two will be as one again,
As was intended from the beginning.
Never again to be separated.
The promise now fulfilled.
Forever in heaven they will reign.
Blessed are You who rejoiced with them.
The King and Queen are home.
Let there soon be heard on streets of New Jerusalem the sound of joy
And the sound of gladness, the voice of the loving couple.
Let the sound of jubilation and the Kings song-filled feasts fill the air.
Music and dancing to follow for eternity in a celebration that never ends.
As he looks at his beloved, joy beyond measure radiates from his face.
And she will be wrapped for eternity in it, warmed by His undying love.
All who answer the invitation are welcome
Will you be there with me to see?
Sadly, some will not have ever known him, and will not know the way
So they can not enter into his rest.
Some will not find their name written in the guess book.
Some will we too busy to come, some will show up too late,
Some will cry “I’m ready now,” only to find there is no more time.
Some will say it cost too much, to enter.
Some will not be dressed, but still in rags never having changed for the king.
Some will claim they know him only be turn back at the door,
For they know the name, but not him.
Some will see themselves as they truly are for the first time
And be to unable to enter for they have never been forgiven and healed.
They will remain forever trapped in their sin, separated for the end of time.
The time is fast approaching. Will you be ready for your groom?
Do you look with longing for that time or do you tell Him to wait for another day?
Do you know him, as a friend, as a lover? Have you spend time with him?
Do you hang your head with shame because you have not yet cleaned yourself?
Will you be joyful to see him, or fearful?
Will your life change a little or will it be the ultimate make over?
What would you do different if you knew today is the wedding day?
What are you waiting for?
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 11-09-08
The weddings of all wedding.
A celebration of joy and love.
On the happiest and holiest day of days.
The bride and groom will come absolutely perfect.
Holy and a pure, waiting to become one.
Their eyes filled with love only for each other,
They have waited a long time for this day.
No bride and groom will every have been decked out is such fine array.
Have you ever seen a more beautiful couple?
Oh, It will be a sight to see. You can’t afford to miss it.
All the important people will be there.
The bride, the groom, of course,
The Father of the bride, family
Leaders from the Nations, Judges, Noble prizewinners,
Singers, Doctors, Teachers, Preachers, Bankers, Entertainers,
The well to do and the not so well do are all invited.
Absolutely everyone who is anyone will be there.
It is going to be grand, Like nothing you ever see before.
It is so big even Gabriel might show up.
Are you coming? Have you made plans?
I am going. Are You?
Do you know what you will wear?
Will you be ready? Don’t be late.
The angels of God Almighty will herald the trumpet call to come.
This time it will be God’s own son that is the groom.
Jesus Christ, himself, will arrive as the King He is.
His snow white robe covered with a flowing purple cape.
A crown of Gold upon His head.
The groom will stand while songs are sung of his praise.
Every knee will bow in respect and homage.
Stories of His greatness, faithfulness and love will be told.
Cries of Holy, Holy, Holy and blessed be his name,
Thanks for His life giving blood will be proclaimed.
Praise raised on high and too numerous to count
Will fill the heavens from one end to the other.
The angles will add their voices and instruments to the song.
Will there ever be so sweet a sound?
No ear has heard such melodies.
He has come for his beautiful bride, the church.
His precious one that he values more than death, will be complete.
The bride decked out in long robes of white, they shine so bright.
Precious stones and pearls embroidered into silk sewn from the finest seamstress.
For now she too is pure, holy, having a heart only for him.
No more will she cry, and weep,
No more will she fear death, sickness, pain or sorrow.
She will know instead, sweetness, joy uncontainable and love unsurpassed.
Her beloved has come to claim her. She will forever more sit at His side.
She will want for nothing, but to spent more time with him,
And thank him for his mercies and His perfect love.
The two will be as one again,
As was intended from the beginning.
Never again to be separated.
The promise now fulfilled.
Forever in heaven they will reign.
Blessed are You who rejoiced with them.
The King and Queen are home.
Let there soon be heard on streets of New Jerusalem the sound of joy
And the sound of gladness, the voice of the loving couple.
Let the sound of jubilation and the Kings song-filled feasts fill the air.
Music and dancing to follow for eternity in a celebration that never ends.
As he looks at his beloved, joy beyond measure radiates from his face.
And she will be wrapped for eternity in it, warmed by His undying love.
All who answer the invitation are welcome
Will you be there with me to see?
Sadly, some will not have ever known him, and will not know the way
So they can not enter into his rest.
Some will not find their name written in the guess book.
Some will we too busy to come, some will show up too late,
Some will cry “I’m ready now,” only to find there is no more time.
Some will say it cost too much, to enter.
Some will not be dressed, but still in rags never having changed for the king.
Some will claim they know him only be turn back at the door,
For they know the name, but not him.
Some will see themselves as they truly are for the first time
And be to unable to enter for they have never been forgiven and healed.
They will remain forever trapped in their sin, separated for the end of time.
The time is fast approaching. Will you be ready for your groom?
Do you look with longing for that time or do you tell Him to wait for another day?
Do you know him, as a friend, as a lover? Have you spend time with him?
Do you hang your head with shame because you have not yet cleaned yourself?
Will you be joyful to see him, or fearful?
Will your life change a little or will it be the ultimate make over?
What would you do different if you knew today is the wedding day?
What are you waiting for?
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 11-09-08
The Voice of God
The voice of God thunders in marvelous ways.
It does great things beyond our understanding.
By the power of it’s mighty, strong and forceful sound
The heaven exploded with the lights of a million stars.
The mountains rose from the depths of the sea at Your decree.
At Your assertion all life and mankind was created.
By Your verdict the waters fell from the heaven
And flood the Earth and then dry up again at Your command.
Your resounding anger at sinfulness was made known.
Your glory and power comes forth as thunderous rushing water
That cannot be silent by time itself to proclamation Your Holiness.
By Your strong voice, you announce this is my son
In whom I am well pleased. He is the way. Seek Him.
From the cross, it shouts it is done. Death is defeated.
The voice of God is sometime silent
When we think we need it most.
Sometimes because He want us to be still
And cease from our strife long enough
To seek His face and His hand.
Sometimes because we have sinned
And have not yet turned from it.
More often it is because the answer to the why we ask
Is beyond our minds ability to understand
For we cannot see all the universe at once
We cannot look forwards and backwards in time.
We only know the piece that we are in hurts.
It is at these times that we must trust His heart
And wait for the voice of God to return again.
The voice of God comes quietly in the stillness of the night,
A gentle whisper in the breeze to caress the heart of man.
Passionately, it speaks of undying love and forgiveness.
It melodiously sings praises to lift our soul upward
While it soothes away our murmurs and tears.
Delicately its soft voice calls to us to walk with Him in the garden again.
It embraces our mind speaking of holiness, glory and love.
As fragile as the dew of the morn the voice whispers
Stillness, calm, peace, and joy to man’s spirit of unrest.
It sighs, a soft fluttering sound of the essence of God’s character
Inviting the listener to enter into His rest and knowledge.
It talks of serenity, tranquility, and blessed hope.
It cries, be still and hear my voice and know that I am God.
Your voice is mighty and piercing as the roar of blazing fire,
Burning the souls of man to bring forth Your glory.
Which fills Your people with fear and awe.
Piercing the walls of man’s hearts and melting it.
The fire in Your voice brings with it the fear of God
And the beginning of wisdom to the simple.
The intenseness strength of it sound brings sinners to their knees.
With fear and trembling and the boldness of Christ
They come into the presences of a holy God sanctified.
Under its righteous booming roar of His voice
They fall prostrate before His love and grace.
The trumpets of the angels blare a gleeful noise
And He proclaims welcome home my child.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 05-09-09
It does great things beyond our understanding.
By the power of it’s mighty, strong and forceful sound
The heaven exploded with the lights of a million stars.
The mountains rose from the depths of the sea at Your decree.
At Your assertion all life and mankind was created.
By Your verdict the waters fell from the heaven
And flood the Earth and then dry up again at Your command.
Your resounding anger at sinfulness was made known.
Your glory and power comes forth as thunderous rushing water
That cannot be silent by time itself to proclamation Your Holiness.
By Your strong voice, you announce this is my son
In whom I am well pleased. He is the way. Seek Him.
From the cross, it shouts it is done. Death is defeated.
The voice of God is sometime silent
When we think we need it most.
Sometimes because He want us to be still
And cease from our strife long enough
To seek His face and His hand.
Sometimes because we have sinned
And have not yet turned from it.
More often it is because the answer to the why we ask
Is beyond our minds ability to understand
For we cannot see all the universe at once
We cannot look forwards and backwards in time.
We only know the piece that we are in hurts.
It is at these times that we must trust His heart
And wait for the voice of God to return again.
The voice of God comes quietly in the stillness of the night,
A gentle whisper in the breeze to caress the heart of man.
Passionately, it speaks of undying love and forgiveness.
It melodiously sings praises to lift our soul upward
While it soothes away our murmurs and tears.
Delicately its soft voice calls to us to walk with Him in the garden again.
It embraces our mind speaking of holiness, glory and love.
As fragile as the dew of the morn the voice whispers
Stillness, calm, peace, and joy to man’s spirit of unrest.
It sighs, a soft fluttering sound of the essence of God’s character
Inviting the listener to enter into His rest and knowledge.
It talks of serenity, tranquility, and blessed hope.
It cries, be still and hear my voice and know that I am God.
Your voice is mighty and piercing as the roar of blazing fire,
Burning the souls of man to bring forth Your glory.
Which fills Your people with fear and awe.
Piercing the walls of man’s hearts and melting it.
The fire in Your voice brings with it the fear of God
And the beginning of wisdom to the simple.
The intenseness strength of it sound brings sinners to their knees.
With fear and trembling and the boldness of Christ
They come into the presences of a holy God sanctified.
Under its righteous booming roar of His voice
They fall prostrate before His love and grace.
The trumpets of the angels blare a gleeful noise
And He proclaims welcome home my child.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 05-09-09
The Unexpected Day
It was a day like many before it
It was not a holiday, just a common ordinary day,
With nothing that stood out as special about it.
Children were going to school.
Some worried about test, others not caring if they pass.
Young couples were planning marriage
And the life times they would spend together.
Others were looking for their first home,
Planning the children that they hope to fill it with.
Mothers were cooking and caring for babies.
Dishwashers, washing machine, and vacuums are humming.
Some have eaten too much, and some have too little food.
Grandmother and Grandfather were spoiling their grandchildren.
Copy machines, cell phones and computers are running at top speed.
Bosses were checking up on their employee,
Planning for the latest market changes and ways to get ahead.
Workers were hurrying to complete their tasks
Hoping to impress the boss and rise above the crowd
While others just counted the minutes until the ending bell.
Some lay sleeping already tired from life’s demands.
Some are being born and some were pasting from this life.
The TV is filled with stories of wars on every continent.
Pictures of bombarded building filled the screen
With destruction of homes, school, and hospitals.
The countless life that had been torn apart displayed for all to see on TV.
Sickness and disease demand to devour its fill,
Taking captives the prisoners of all that it could overpower.
The cries of hurting soldiers and civilians called out
For peace, food, water, healing, and rest,
Promises long since broken by the leaders of the day.
While other radical’s cries only for more bloodshed.
The sun’s and moon’s light fails to shine as normal.
The land itself is broken into pieces and shoots out fire
Rising and falling at a whim as also the waters of the oceans
Causing massive earthquakes and tidal waves
Wiping out whole cities and villages.
Animals of the waters, valleys, and mountain’s tops
Fail to reproduce and dwindle in number throughout the land,
However, their sickness explodes and spread to man.
Drought and blight have claimed the best crops.
Those that are left are withered and sparse
Increasing the cries of the hungry and homeless.
The spirit of man is just as hungry
For it has become blind and deaf
Unable to take substance from it source
No longer even able to receive the bread of life
Or able to drink the living water.
It has lost the ability even to know what it needs
And grasps at many straws that break and fall away,
Following mindlessly the paths to darkness.
The watchman has long ago given up his post
Moreover, forgot what was foretold before time began.
No longer does He seek the Master’s return
But busied himself with life’s common chores.
However, today is that unexpected common day
Suddenly a loud trumpet sounded.
Lights from above brakes forth from the clouds
And a King returned to claim His throne
And dominion forever as ruler of His kingdom.
Multitudes of sleeping saints are raised up.
In a twinkling of an eye, the living saints transformed
Taking their place in courts of heavens beside them.
Angels fill the heaven and the Earth
Free at last to release the judgment of sin on man
And prepare the Jerusalem’s gates for the Messiah’s glorious presences
As He sets His feet on Zion, restoring Israel’s and His holy city.
Those that are left on Earth are confused, deceived and bewildered
Lost in lies of enemy and condemned to suffer the wrath of God.
The angels are now free to release God’s judgments.
Their plans for the day no longer matter, for they will never happen.
Their choices have now caught up with them
And they must bare its burden forever more.
It was an unexpected day for them,
A nightmare they never believed would come true.
But one that change their world and life forever,
For in that day all will be called to give account
And bow to the new ruler of the land.
Kathy Barnes
Copyrighted 9-4-09
It was not a holiday, just a common ordinary day,
With nothing that stood out as special about it.
Children were going to school.
Some worried about test, others not caring if they pass.
Young couples were planning marriage
And the life times they would spend together.
Others were looking for their first home,
Planning the children that they hope to fill it with.
Mothers were cooking and caring for babies.
Dishwashers, washing machine, and vacuums are humming.
Some have eaten too much, and some have too little food.
Grandmother and Grandfather were spoiling their grandchildren.
Copy machines, cell phones and computers are running at top speed.
Bosses were checking up on their employee,
Planning for the latest market changes and ways to get ahead.
Workers were hurrying to complete their tasks
Hoping to impress the boss and rise above the crowd
While others just counted the minutes until the ending bell.
Some lay sleeping already tired from life’s demands.
Some are being born and some were pasting from this life.
The TV is filled with stories of wars on every continent.
Pictures of bombarded building filled the screen
With destruction of homes, school, and hospitals.
The countless life that had been torn apart displayed for all to see on TV.
Sickness and disease demand to devour its fill,
Taking captives the prisoners of all that it could overpower.
The cries of hurting soldiers and civilians called out
For peace, food, water, healing, and rest,
Promises long since broken by the leaders of the day.
While other radical’s cries only for more bloodshed.
The sun’s and moon’s light fails to shine as normal.
The land itself is broken into pieces and shoots out fire
Rising and falling at a whim as also the waters of the oceans
Causing massive earthquakes and tidal waves
Wiping out whole cities and villages.
Animals of the waters, valleys, and mountain’s tops
Fail to reproduce and dwindle in number throughout the land,
However, their sickness explodes and spread to man.
Drought and blight have claimed the best crops.
Those that are left are withered and sparse
Increasing the cries of the hungry and homeless.
The spirit of man is just as hungry
For it has become blind and deaf
Unable to take substance from it source
No longer even able to receive the bread of life
Or able to drink the living water.
It has lost the ability even to know what it needs
And grasps at many straws that break and fall away,
Following mindlessly the paths to darkness.
The watchman has long ago given up his post
Moreover, forgot what was foretold before time began.
No longer does He seek the Master’s return
But busied himself with life’s common chores.
However, today is that unexpected common day
Suddenly a loud trumpet sounded.
Lights from above brakes forth from the clouds
And a King returned to claim His throne
And dominion forever as ruler of His kingdom.
Multitudes of sleeping saints are raised up.
In a twinkling of an eye, the living saints transformed
Taking their place in courts of heavens beside them.
Angels fill the heaven and the Earth
Free at last to release the judgment of sin on man
And prepare the Jerusalem’s gates for the Messiah’s glorious presences
As He sets His feet on Zion, restoring Israel’s and His holy city.
Those that are left on Earth are confused, deceived and bewildered
Lost in lies of enemy and condemned to suffer the wrath of God.
The angels are now free to release God’s judgments.
Their plans for the day no longer matter, for they will never happen.
Their choices have now caught up with them
And they must bare its burden forever more.
It was an unexpected day for them,
A nightmare they never believed would come true.
But one that change their world and life forever,
For in that day all will be called to give account
And bow to the new ruler of the land.
Kathy Barnes
Copyrighted 9-4-09
The Tongue
This is one of the tiny parts of the body
Yet this is one of the most significant.
Its power is enormous and impressive.
Such a diminutive part holds such immense might.
It is used at times devastatingly to tear down
Whatever is in its path like a hurricane’s fury.
We often use it without thinking before we speak.
What comes out is angry, harmful, hateful words,
Or discouraging, belittling, and disparaging words
Amid inward at ourselves and outward toward others.
Both can inflict more pain and damage
In a few seconds than lifetime can repair.
We curse ourselves by speaking of failures
Those of the past and future
For our words, keep us captive from present success.
We speak our fears into existence
When we let an uncontrolled mind run free
Filled with worry and doubts of what might happen.
The tongue can start an insatiable wild fire that cannot be contained
Or taken back once gossip has spew out our mouth.
Gossip consumes it victims gluttonously and yearn for more.
Often starting backfires that are just as ravenous and unquenchable.
The tongue may be forked and speak lies forth as truth
And deceives the foolish into following in it folly.
We often listen and believe our own lies.
The tongue encourages those that lack wisdom and understanding
To lie in bed with the sinful and wicked temptress of evil.
It can be used to take in vain the name of the Most High God.
The tongue is sometime used wisely.
It can easily be a great blessing to another.
When it is used to build up someone’s esteem
Encouraging them to be all that they can be.
To stand and boldly say, “Yes I can.”
It can articulate the love within our hearts for another
Let them know that they are important and not alone.
It conveys to them the worth that we see in them.
When used with love the tongue can mend a thousand fences
Restoring relationships and covering up offenses.
The right words have the power to heal the heart
And calm tempers back down from boiling.
It can speak joy, hope, and possibilities into our minds
And set us up to expect success and victory.
It can address the wisdom of the ages
And bring understand to the simple minded.
The tongue can speak forth the miracles of healing and life.
It can tell other bold of God’s love for them
And how Christ died to save them from sin.
It can stand up for what is good and right.
It can speak for those that have no voice.
It can be employed to praise our Maker and Creator
Thanking Him for all that, He has done for us
And offering up song of joy and celebration.
Sometimes the tongue’s best use is to be silent.
Otherwise, pride would speak and injure another.
The condemnation of another is best left unsaid.
Me, myself and I is wisely left unvoiced.
Voiceless fault finding and criticisms is more desirable
Than speaking curses on others or ourselves.
It is better to be quiet than speak of things
That the brain has not yet processed through
And only believe that is correct as facts.
He that controls his tongue
And not let it control his actions
Is the wisest and most powerful of men.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 7-6-09
Yet this is one of the most significant.
Its power is enormous and impressive.
Such a diminutive part holds such immense might.
It is used at times devastatingly to tear down
Whatever is in its path like a hurricane’s fury.
We often use it without thinking before we speak.
What comes out is angry, harmful, hateful words,
Or discouraging, belittling, and disparaging words
Amid inward at ourselves and outward toward others.
Both can inflict more pain and damage
In a few seconds than lifetime can repair.
We curse ourselves by speaking of failures
Those of the past and future
For our words, keep us captive from present success.
We speak our fears into existence
When we let an uncontrolled mind run free
Filled with worry and doubts of what might happen.
The tongue can start an insatiable wild fire that cannot be contained
Or taken back once gossip has spew out our mouth.
Gossip consumes it victims gluttonously and yearn for more.
Often starting backfires that are just as ravenous and unquenchable.
The tongue may be forked and speak lies forth as truth
And deceives the foolish into following in it folly.
We often listen and believe our own lies.
The tongue encourages those that lack wisdom and understanding
To lie in bed with the sinful and wicked temptress of evil.
It can be used to take in vain the name of the Most High God.
The tongue is sometime used wisely.
It can easily be a great blessing to another.
When it is used to build up someone’s esteem
Encouraging them to be all that they can be.
To stand and boldly say, “Yes I can.”
It can articulate the love within our hearts for another
Let them know that they are important and not alone.
It conveys to them the worth that we see in them.
When used with love the tongue can mend a thousand fences
Restoring relationships and covering up offenses.
The right words have the power to heal the heart
And calm tempers back down from boiling.
It can speak joy, hope, and possibilities into our minds
And set us up to expect success and victory.
It can address the wisdom of the ages
And bring understand to the simple minded.
The tongue can speak forth the miracles of healing and life.
It can tell other bold of God’s love for them
And how Christ died to save them from sin.
It can stand up for what is good and right.
It can speak for those that have no voice.
It can be employed to praise our Maker and Creator
Thanking Him for all that, He has done for us
And offering up song of joy and celebration.
Sometimes the tongue’s best use is to be silent.
Otherwise, pride would speak and injure another.
The condemnation of another is best left unsaid.
Me, myself and I is wisely left unvoiced.
Voiceless fault finding and criticisms is more desirable
Than speaking curses on others or ourselves.
It is better to be quiet than speak of things
That the brain has not yet processed through
And only believe that is correct as facts.
He that controls his tongue
And not let it control his actions
Is the wisest and most powerful of men.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 7-6-09
The Sun Come Up
The Sun Comes Up And The Sun Goes Down
The sun comes up and the sun goes down on yet another day
I have ran the whole day from one place to another
So much to accomplish, so much to do,
As I try to deal with the daily crises on my own.
I strive to get everything done at work that must be done, and fail.
Then cook and clean and feed the animals.
I hug the family; say I love you, while going through the motions,
Not truly see their needs, so caught up in my own.
Exhausted I slip into bed and hope for sleep release.
I toss and turn not able to release my cares, my fears or my pain.
My heart cries out and speaks of loneliness,
It complain that the hole in it is growing,
Slowly devouring it piece by piece, one section at a time dying.
It screams at me that you are not living just existing.
Can’t you see you are at death door? I turn up the TV.
I drag myself out of bed and say “What for? Why is life so hard?”
I grab a liquid breakfast of caffeine and running out the door reluctantly admit that I am already defeated, the battles lost.
The sun comes up and the sun goes down on yet another day.
In the still of the morning sun, I take a moment to be still and listen.
I take the time to thank God for the beauty I see around me
The breath He has given me today, His strength and power.
I have so much to do today I can’t possible get it done without Him.
I need His wisdom, for I don’t know how to best handle the daily trials.
The day flies by and I don’t understand how the mountain of errands get accomplished but some how they do. Why did they seem so big?
I look around and see others that need hugged and lifted up.
I am so full of love it is easy to give some of it away.
I don’t have to be afraid that somehow I be shorted.
My needs are meet, so I can afford meet others needs.
I turn off the TV and my thoughts reflect upon the day.
I am reminded that I am never alone. God has surely blessed me.
I am in awe of His love, and my heart explodes joy.
I crawl into bed as I lay the cares and burdens of the day down and drift into sweet sleep.
Refreshed I wake, ready to master another day, to be victorious.
Any fool can tell which day to choose, what gives the best results.
More days that I care to admit, he is wiser than I am.
Some times, I get so lost chasing what is good; I fail to ask what is best.
The gods of money, honor, power, belongings, time and family draw my eye away from Him.
My fears boisterously speak what the heart does not truly believe.
My pride speaks and says I can do it. No need to bother the Master.
I have the resources and wisdom to deal this problem, I don’t require help. Someone may think me weak if I ask for help.
Worst some days this broken earthen vessels longs to be equal to it Maker. Declaring that it know best, it fruitlessly strives to be perfect.
If I am not in control of everything, then I stand a chance of being hurt.
If people could see the real, me then they would all turn away. I can’t let anyone close especially God.
Some days I am so caught up in myself that I can think of no one else.
I turn my back to the cross, to it cost, to God’s love.
Just like a spoil rebellious child, I demand my own way.
Loving Father that He is, He let me choose my day
When I hurt enough cry out to Him to rescue me, He is there waiting.
He is quick to forgive, to restore, and to lovingly call me home once more.
But as I draw closer to Him, slowly changing into His likeness, I see glimpses of His heart and it breaks mine for I can see the pain I cause.
How many tears have I made you shed? How many times have I ripped Your heart into pieces? Way too many times, Lord. One would be too much.
The sun comes up and the sun goes down on yet another day.
I start again and pray for the sense to choose wisely,
Not just to avoid my pain if I do not, but because I love You.
I may fail another day, but I will always come back to You for You have love me when I was unlovable, lost in sin.
Without You I am hopeless, Without You nothing else matters, life is pointless, not worth living, full on only pain.
Without You there is only death and a pit of fire.
I can think of nothing worst than to be forever cut off from You love,
Never to be able to see Your face.
I long for the day You come back for Your bride, and I can be perfected.
I will enter into your banquet feast and spend forever basking in Your glory. Oh, to be able to live daily in Your presences.
A thousand years is not enough time to sing praise to Your name or begin to thank You for all You have done for me. Do not tarry come quickly my King, my Lord, my Husband for I look eagerly for Your return.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 09-04-08
The sun comes up and the sun goes down on yet another day
I have ran the whole day from one place to another
So much to accomplish, so much to do,
As I try to deal with the daily crises on my own.
I strive to get everything done at work that must be done, and fail.
Then cook and clean and feed the animals.
I hug the family; say I love you, while going through the motions,
Not truly see their needs, so caught up in my own.
Exhausted I slip into bed and hope for sleep release.
I toss and turn not able to release my cares, my fears or my pain.
My heart cries out and speaks of loneliness,
It complain that the hole in it is growing,
Slowly devouring it piece by piece, one section at a time dying.
It screams at me that you are not living just existing.
Can’t you see you are at death door? I turn up the TV.
I drag myself out of bed and say “What for? Why is life so hard?”
I grab a liquid breakfast of caffeine and running out the door reluctantly admit that I am already defeated, the battles lost.
The sun comes up and the sun goes down on yet another day.
In the still of the morning sun, I take a moment to be still and listen.
I take the time to thank God for the beauty I see around me
The breath He has given me today, His strength and power.
I have so much to do today I can’t possible get it done without Him.
I need His wisdom, for I don’t know how to best handle the daily trials.
The day flies by and I don’t understand how the mountain of errands get accomplished but some how they do. Why did they seem so big?
I look around and see others that need hugged and lifted up.
I am so full of love it is easy to give some of it away.
I don’t have to be afraid that somehow I be shorted.
My needs are meet, so I can afford meet others needs.
I turn off the TV and my thoughts reflect upon the day.
I am reminded that I am never alone. God has surely blessed me.
I am in awe of His love, and my heart explodes joy.
I crawl into bed as I lay the cares and burdens of the day down and drift into sweet sleep.
Refreshed I wake, ready to master another day, to be victorious.
Any fool can tell which day to choose, what gives the best results.
More days that I care to admit, he is wiser than I am.
Some times, I get so lost chasing what is good; I fail to ask what is best.
The gods of money, honor, power, belongings, time and family draw my eye away from Him.
My fears boisterously speak what the heart does not truly believe.
My pride speaks and says I can do it. No need to bother the Master.
I have the resources and wisdom to deal this problem, I don’t require help. Someone may think me weak if I ask for help.
Worst some days this broken earthen vessels longs to be equal to it Maker. Declaring that it know best, it fruitlessly strives to be perfect.
If I am not in control of everything, then I stand a chance of being hurt.
If people could see the real, me then they would all turn away. I can’t let anyone close especially God.
Some days I am so caught up in myself that I can think of no one else.
I turn my back to the cross, to it cost, to God’s love.
Just like a spoil rebellious child, I demand my own way.
Loving Father that He is, He let me choose my day
When I hurt enough cry out to Him to rescue me, He is there waiting.
He is quick to forgive, to restore, and to lovingly call me home once more.
But as I draw closer to Him, slowly changing into His likeness, I see glimpses of His heart and it breaks mine for I can see the pain I cause.
How many tears have I made you shed? How many times have I ripped Your heart into pieces? Way too many times, Lord. One would be too much.
The sun comes up and the sun goes down on yet another day.
I start again and pray for the sense to choose wisely,
Not just to avoid my pain if I do not, but because I love You.
I may fail another day, but I will always come back to You for You have love me when I was unlovable, lost in sin.
Without You I am hopeless, Without You nothing else matters, life is pointless, not worth living, full on only pain.
Without You there is only death and a pit of fire.
I can think of nothing worst than to be forever cut off from You love,
Never to be able to see Your face.
I long for the day You come back for Your bride, and I can be perfected.
I will enter into your banquet feast and spend forever basking in Your glory. Oh, to be able to live daily in Your presences.
A thousand years is not enough time to sing praise to Your name or begin to thank You for all You have done for me. Do not tarry come quickly my King, my Lord, my Husband for I look eagerly for Your return.
Kathy Barnes
Copyright 09-04-08
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