In This World of Change #32

In This World of Change In this world, constants few, Hypotheses stand, firm and true. Civilization's base, in our minds' embrace, A future, vibrant, in culture's race. Imagination, wild and free, Choices made with conscience's key. Freedom's path, does it endear A future bright or veiled in fear? Human thought, a boundless sea, Pondering freedom, vast and free. In science, tech, humanity's hand, The future's course, in time's sand. In changing worlds, constants reside, Divine presence, an eternal guide. Nature's beings, in their realm, Instincts guide, with no overwhelm. Remember leaders, their divine spark, Echoing Christ, through times dark and stark. Jesus, the same, past, future, and today, In life's labyrinth, He lights the way. (Hebrews 13:7-9) – a constant light, In a world of change, our guiding sight. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 31, 2023)

Rivers of Resilience #31

"Rivers of Resilience" In the dance of life, where dreams are sown, Merchants and statesmen, their seeds have thrown. Upon the currents of commerce they ride, In politics' waves, they skillfully glide. Yet, beyond the clink of coins, the sway of power, Lies a deeper stream, a more sacred tower. In the church's embrace, the faithful find, A sanctuary for the heart, peace for the mind. Pastors guide with gentle hands, As the congregation in unity stands. For in their midst, a presence so bright, Jesus Christ, their guiding light. What if gold and glory were to fade? Would their spirits be dismayed? Or what if faith’s flame were to dim? Would their hope grow grim? Yet, from this tapestry, a truth we glean, In life's fabric, an unseen seam. Both material wealth and spiritual quest, Merge in the river of life, finding rest. Capitalism's course, ever unsure, Churches' path, in faith so pure. Both seek a purpose, a meaningful role, In the grand tapestry, a collective soul. Start with heart, steadfast and true, Your journey will clear, a fresh morning dew. Scriptures remind, in verses so wise, The beauty of endurance, under open skies. "My food, to do His will," a guiding light, "To finish strong," against the night. "Blessed are those, who trials withstand," In resilience, they walk, hand in hand. In life's river, where currents blend, Troubles and joys, in harmony mend. For in each heart, a resilient flame, Illuminates paths, in life's complex playoff. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 30, 2023)

Eternal Echoes: The Dance of Celestial and Human Time #30

"Eternal Echoes: The Dance of Celestial and Human Time" In the realm where land and sky unite, Time's dance weaves through day and night. Seasons shift in endless play, Under sun, moon, stars' array. In the heavens, time extends, Stretching far beyond our ends. Day meets night in celestial grace, In the vast cosmic embrace. Yet, in the human heart, time's a different tune, Marking life's fleeting afternoon. Our moments, like ripples, come and go, In the stream of existence, steady and slow. Time, a constant, yet varied in beat, In every heart, it echoes, discreet. Though its length may differ, its essence we know, Measured and used as we come and go. Do we wield consciousness in time's vast sea? Or let moments slip, ungrasped, unfree? Choices are ours, in every fleeting breath, In this dance with time, from birth until death. Yet, in the wisdom of ancient words, we find, Mysteries of time that challenge the mind. Matthew speaks of resurrection's lore, No earthly ties, but something more. Like angels in the eternal expanse, Beyond marriage, or mortal chance. Methuselah's years, to the Lord, but a day, A blink in the divine, unending sway. “For a day is like a thousand years,” so it's told, And a millennium, a day, in the heavenly fold. Is this the lens of Modernism's view? Or does Postmodern thought offer a clue? Time in the sky, time on earth, Human time, all entwined from birth. Together they roll, in cosmic array, But let's not treat life as child's play. In this journey with time, let's not falter or sway, Like taffy sellers, lost in the fray. For in each moment, profound or benign, Lies the essence of the divine. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 29, 2023)

A Cry in Ramah: Between Tyranny and Hope #29

"A Cry in Ramah: Between Tyranny and Hope" In shadows deep, where whispers stir, A tale unfolds, both grim and blurred. A king's decree, so harsh and wild, To claim the life of every child. "Is this just? Can this be right? To steal the innocent from night?" A question hangs, a moral plight, In Bethlehem's cold, starless light. "Hey! Hey! The king's command, To take the young from mother's hand. Babes so pure, with eyes so grand, Shall we let this stain our land?" "Defy not orders, harsh and crass! The king, though mad, his will shall pass. Yet in his madness, shadows cast, A future grim, with lives amassed." "No king should wield such cruel decree! To harm the young, the pure, the free. Let's rise against this tyranny, And save the babes from this spree." "The risk is great, the path unsure, To challenge power, corrupt and pure. Yet for the young, so innocent, Shall we not be their adamant?" A choice to make, a line to draw, Between the power and the flaw. To save a life, a righteous cause, Or bow to tyranny's cruel jaws. "A voice in Ramah, tears do fall, Rachel weeps, for she hears the call. Her children gone, in night's cruel haul, A grief that blankets, covers all." "Be Merciful, to young and old, In stories told, in whispers bold. For in our hands, their fate does fold, In acts of courage, brave and bold." Thus the tale of two views we tell, Of those who fought, and those who fell. In history's heart, these memories dwell, Of innocence saved, or lost in hell. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 29, 2023)

"Journey Beyond Earthly Means" #28

"Journey Beyond Earthly Means" To reach the waters, one needs a boat, To soar the skies, a plane to float, For lands afar, a car's embrace, But what if none are in your space? No boat to sail, no wings to glide, No car to roam the countryside, When all these means are out of sight, Must one then walk into the night? And if your feet, too, are amiss, How shall you journey through this bliss? With riches, can one chart the way? Or in a chair, just roll and sway? Fear not, for heaven's path is clear: No worldly vessel can steer near. Upon the cross, scorned and reviled, A man, as refuse, was compiled. Embrace the human Christ, your guide, On roads where God's grace does abide. Cast worries, strife, and judgment's weight Into the world's forsaken state. Like night owls hunting with keen sight, Heaven's gates open to the light. Is this not Christ's own truth, so bright? "Follow me," He calls, "deny your core, For life is found in losing more. Why call me Lord and walk astray? In deeds, not words, find the true way." (Mt 16:24-25, Lk 6:46) -Written Steven G. Lee (December 27, 2023)

A Resilient Whisper in the Fiery Wilderness #27

A Resilient Whisper in the Fiery Wilderness Even amidst the fiercest flame, Some things remain, untouched, unclaimed. Useless, you say? Nay, look again. In wilderness wild, the bush aflame, Yet unburnt, unscarred, it stands, unashamed. The grace of the Lord, its leaves remain green, In lands deemed barren, life unseen. A bush in the desert, how can it be vain? For in your gaze, it's not the bush that's plain, But the eye that fails to see its worth, its gain. The source of all, both earth and sky, Holds no grudge, hears no cry. Beyond appearances, beyond earthly ties, Unharmed by phantoms, your soul flies. Peaceful, pervading, in all it lies, All things obey, in this truth, wise. This, the gospel's core, its central prize, With Christ's heart, we lift humanity's eyes. Thrown away, yet not forsaken, Burnt, not burnt; killed, yet unshaken, Absent, yet present - this truth awaken. He who ignores, calls useful, futile, In uselessness, finds no worthwhile. Blinded, in utility's barren aisle, Sees not the worth in what's deemed vile. In a land so barren, a bush in fire, In a stable's manger, life's quiet choir, Can you see? Can you aspire? A paradigm shift, a holy desire. Stand in the holy wasteland, bear, Remove your shoes, breathe fresh new air. Begin anew, with heart laid bare. -Written Steven G. Lee (December 27, 2023) "God called to him out of the bush... Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground" (Exodus 3:4-5). Nearly 60% of individuals experiencing homelessness in our community are members who have been baptized in our church. Homelessness (Mt 25:31-46) can be caused by Family violence Mental health issues Physical health issue e.g. accident at work and bills mount up Loss of employment, under-employment or inability to gain a new job Limited housing / rental stress Drug and alcohol addiction (which can occur after being homeless) Traumatic Experiences.

Dawn of the Eternal: A Journey from Ashes to Light #26

Dawn of the Eternal: A Journey from Ashes to Light In the quiet aftermath, where embers lose their blaze, Whispers of endings dance in the ash's soft haze. Yet, behold! From this grey, not merely an end we see, But a phoenix rising, in majestic liberty. High it soars, wings spread towards heaven's gate, Its ascent, a story of new beginnings, a fate Transformed. From dust, a radiant dawn appears— God's child, in gentle light, dispels ancient fears. In a manger, the infant Jesus, a humble start, Where tales of old find truth in a beating heart. From Abraham to prophets, their shadows now clear, In this Child's breath, their purpose draws near. His life, a woven story of beginnings anew, Each step, a fresh start, in His mission true. The Cross, His death – yet, the story takes flight, For in the tomb, a divine resurrection ignites! Jesus, once buried, now risen, a narrative unsealed, His Gospel, a journey of endless beginnings revealed. In birth, in life, in death, He renews the call; With each, a rebirth, His love embracing all. Beyond the bounds of time, His story transcends, Where start and finish in eternal dance blend. In this domain, linear time loses its hold; Worldly measures forgotten, in His story bold. In hope's bright burst, faith and love entwined, Each ending becomes a start, divinely designed. Constant through time, His presence forever stays, In the eternal realm, where His love always sways. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 26, 2023) "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever" (Hebrews 13:8). "Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations" (Psalms 145:13). References: Exodus 15:18; Daniel 4:3;7:14

Divine Interplay: Elements and Grace #25

Fire and Water, Earth and Sky Fire descends from heaven's height, To earth below, a blazing light. Yet, from the earth, flames aspire, Man with fire, his daring pyre. Water flows from peaks so high, To valleys deep, under the sky. Yet, upwards too, it finds its way, In human hands, it comes to play. A Woman, a Child, and Divinity A woman and a man unite, Birth of a child, a common sight. But when a woman, touched by God, Brings forth a life, it's oddly odd. Is this beyond our common ken? Who crafted these rules for women and men? If Mary's child, a mere affair, Fits our sense, fair and square. Trust in sense, so implicitly, Yet, extraordinary paths set us free. The Wisdom of the Divine 1 Corinthians speaks, do you hear? God's choice, the world's foolish fear. The weak, the scorned, the lowly band, To shame the strong, by His command. Through wisdom, knowledge, all we gauge, Common sense, our worldly stage. Yet in this law, a spirit dwells, A truth that in eternity swells. Pity for sin, forgiveness spread, Grace bestowed, the law's true thread. Even if laws to dust decay, This divine mandate forever will stay. The Message of the Cross In 1 Corinthians, the truth is sown, The humble raised, by God alone. Jesus’ life, His message clear, Mercy's grace, in Him appear. Strength and wisdom, not as we deem, But in Christ's cross, a redeeming theme. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 24, 2025)

Cross and Cradle: A Path of Humble Light #24

Cross and Cradle: A Path of Humble Light In the shadow of the cross, we tread, With hope alight, in humble stead. For in this journey, dark and long, Resides the power of a newborn's song. Baby Jesus, in a manger lay, A beacon bright, night turned to day. In His small hands, the world's great weight, A symbol of love, defeating hate. Embrace the cross, with heart so willing, For in its wood, lies strength fulfilling. A symbol, not of burden, but of care, Guiding us, when despair we dare. God's will, a path both clear and true, In Jesus' footsteps, we find our cue. To love ourselves, and neighbors too, In this, God's grace, forever new. So let us carry our crosses with grace, Following Christ, in steady pace. In darkness find, the light of life, With Baby Jesus, overcoming strife. Thus, in humility, we walk the road, Lightened by the love He showed. In every step, in every choice, We hear His gentle, guiding voice. For in this journey, with crosses borne, New life, new hope, eternally dawn. In Baby Jesus, in manger's glow, Lies the path of Christ, our hearts to know. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 22, 2023)

Divine Measure: A Symphony of Grace and Humility #23

Divine Measure: A Symphony of Grace and Humility In whispered tones of grace, a tender melody of mercy sings, A dance of faith's embrace, where the spirit's warmth clings. Gaze upon the divine measure in your palm, so light, It's not a token for disdain, even if not perfectly upright. Shun the boast of a flawlessly straight line, Humility's cloak suits better, more divine. In the quiet of Bethlehem, a new criterion is born, Baby Jesus, God's true line, in a manger adorn. The walls of our convictions, so rigid and so stark, Must crumble and be reborn from the sacred ark. In holy verses, a prophecy unfolds (Jn 2:19; Mark 14:58;15:29; Mt 26:61), A rebirth of spirit, in God's love, a dawn. Within His flock, God's gentle hand is felt, In Baby Jesus' spirit, hearts unfurl and melt. A devotion to His glory, so pure and so bold, A mirror to our souls, His righteous line foretold (Ro 1:16). As Amos saw in visions, a plumb line so true (Amos 7:7), A guide for life, in God's tender view. A balance for judgement, in His eyes, so kind, Baby Jesus, our guiding line, with love entwined (1Co 1:18). God's Plumb Line, a whisper to hearts astray, A path of faith, in His mercy's gentle sway. Let our hearts be led by this celestial guide, In a symphony of humility, with God by our side. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 20, 2023)

Echoes of Grace: From Betrayal's Shadow to Redemption's Light #22

Echoes of Grace: From Betrayal's Shadow to Redemption's Light Thirty silver echoes, a betrayal's whispered price (Matthew 26:15), In the heart of a friend, where loyalty turned to ice. Judas, with a purse's strings, in friendship's disguise, Cast a shadow on the truth, under faith's questioning skies. In the labyrinth of love, where truths and lies entwine, Seek the soul's reflection, for a love that's truly thine. The journey to self-love, through questions divine, Reveals a path of sincerity, where true hearts align. Life, a tapestry woven with choices we dare, In betrayals, great and small, unveils the soul laid bare. "If I trade my truth for deceit, in this worldly affair, What price do I pay?" A soul's burdened prayer (Matthew 26:15). In the market of morality, where falsehoods are sold, "How can forgiveness blossom, when truths remain untold?" (Micah 6:11) Yet, to those who seek with hearts bold, In darkness's deepest depths, a guiding star takes hold. Behold, in Bethlehem's embrace, a star's radiant glow (Mt 2:9-10), Guiding wise men to a manger, where love's purest seeds sow. In this humble birth, the light of redemption does show, A savior's cradle, where grace's endless rivers flow. -Written By Pastor Steven G. Lee (December 20, 2023)

Flowers Blooming In Heaven(s) #21

Flowers Blooming In Heaven(s) Without gathering, Where are the clouds that bloom? Drifting without wind's guidance, Where are the fluffy clouds hiding? Even in the sky, The thunderbolt flower has blossomed. How can the painful sound of being torn apart Find silence on this earth? For you, With the pain of tearing, the echoes of screams, and trails of tears, We are born and bloom on this earth. How can you say you don't know? -Written by Pastor Steven G. Lee (November 20, 2023)

Sanctity in Every Step: Echoes of John's Humility #20

Sanctity in Every Step: Echoes of John's Humility In sacred spaces tread with care, "Remove your sandals," echoes, a humble prayer. As John once said, unworthy to untie, So we, in reverence, our egos defy. Our streets, our homes, not mere passageway, Treat them with respect, in a humble array. In your own abode, you walk with grace, But in ours, tread softly, in this holy place. No spitting, littering, nor acts misplaced, Our streets, our sanctum, with dignity graced. As John felt unworthy at His feet, So we honor our land, keeping it neat. Think of your home, its sanctity so dear, Would you desecrate it, year after year? The streets we dwell in, with reverence we see, Each corner, each stone, sacred as can be. Our toilets, our spaces, not for public view, Guarded dearly, respected through and through. Where you see pavement, we see a sacred face, A ground hallowed, beyond an empty space. So when you pass through, heed our heartfelt plea, "Our streets are sacred, as sacred as can be." In John’s words, a lesson clear to see, In humility, walk, feel our shared history. For we will wail, as the prophets once cried, In the face of dishonor, our tears haven't dried. Our mourning, deep as night's silent sigh, A lament profound, under the watchful sky. So, pass not in haste, nor with shoes worn, Our streets, our temples, where respect is born. In reverence, pause, let your heart be swayed, "Remove your sandals," where our spirits have prayed. "Unworthy to untie," a mantra so deep, In these words, a wisdom we all should keep. For in humility, true respect is found, On this sacred earth, where grace abounds. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 18, 2023)

Vision Renewed: The Awakening #19

Vision Renewed: The Awakening In the veils of a world, oft misled by illusion's guise, Where true sight is buried, and the spirit's eyes, If the music of life remains unheard, It's not the ears, but the soul that's stirred. The body may wander, lost in the night, Absent of living, devoid of light. For eyes that see not the essential sight, Are blind to the beacon of what is right. To possess ears, yet forsake the sound, Of the truths that in silence abound, Is to live in echoes, hollow and profound, Where the core of life is rarely found. If you stand with life in your grasp, Yet treat it as if a fleeting clasp, You miss the essence, the love to clasp, And life slips away with a final gasp. In a stable, amongst the beasts' quiet mien, A new life stirs, pure and unseen. Valued and cherished, it's not demeaned, In a manger, it lies serene. Not fodder for the beasts, but hope's sustenance, A charge for us, a holy ordinance. In the newborn light, a vision's resonance, Sees the sorrow that merits our cognizance. Hearing the cries that beckon our fate, To nurture a life from the cradle of state. A call to save, to elevate, The news of salvation, we must relate. Joyous hearts welcome the divine decree, As heaven's will unfolds for thee and me. Good tidings on earth, let it be, A herald of joy, forever free. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 18, 2023)

Hope's Dawn in Bethlehem's Night #18

Hope's Dawn in Bethlehem's Night In a world so dark and grim, A child was born, a light so dim. Under Bethlehem's sky so still, A cry was heard, a chill to fill. Born was Jesus, gentle and pure, A divine child, innocent and sure. Yet darkness loomed, a shadow fell, A cruel decree, a tolling bell. Herod's madness, a fate so dire, Innocent lives, caught in ire. Children lost, in chaos spun, Under a tyrant's ruthless sun. In this world, where swords clash, And spears glint, in fear, abash, A baby lay, his mission clear, To change the tide, to dry each tear. Isaiah's prophecy, strong and bold, A future of peace, foretold. Swords to plowshares, spears to pruning hooks, In this child's grasp, the world relooks. For he was born, not just to be, But to lead, to set hearts free. To carve a path where love would reign, And peace, like a ship, sails the main. Lying in a manger, humble, small, Destined to rise, to save us all. To usher a world where wars would cease, Where every heart finds its peace. Upon his shoulders, a world to mend, Wonderful Counselor, Prince of Peace, without end. In his light, we find our path, From night's despair, to hope's bright bath. For in this child, humble and low, Lies a promise, forever aglow. - Written by Steven G. Lee (December 17, 2023) Is 2:4; Mt 2:16:18

From Bethlehem's Tears to Tomorrow's Hope #17

From Bethlehem's Tears to Tomorrow's Hope In Bethlehem's wake, a vision we see, A future forged from history. From tears of old, a promise new, A world reborn, compassionate and true. Jesus' path, from sorrow born, A beacon through the darkest morn. His love, a guide to higher ground, Where peace and kindness can be found. Beyond the lessons of yesteryears, A call to conquer ancient fears. In every heart, let love ignite, Turning darkness into light. A vision where all souls entwine, In harmony, both yours and mine. Bethlehem's children, not in vain, Inspiring us to ease all pain. Jerusalem, Bethlehem, in celestial flight, Lead us to a future bright. Where every creed and every face, Finds in love their rightful place. In this dream, a world anew, Where love's the strongest bond, and true. A future built on past's foundation, United in love, every nation. In Jesus' footsteps, let us tread, By compassion and empathy led. A world where love is the key, This is our vision, our plea. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 16, 2023) The Killing of the Children (Mt 2:16-18)

Whispers of Conscience: Unveiling Truth in the Tapestry of Life #16

Whispers of Conscience: Unveiling Truth in the Tapestry of Life In the tapestry of life, so vividly sewn, Lies the stark truth, too often unknown. Laws of men, a facade so grand, Mask the essence, like shifting sand. These human edicts, so cold and bare, Ignore the spirit, unaware. They cage our actions, but not our thought, In conscience’s realm, they matter naught. Yet, free will whispers, in silent grace, Beyond the law’s cold, impersonal face. In the heart's chambers, where truth resides, Conscience, unshackled, ever guides. For laws are shadows, mere illusions, Breeding confusion, and delusions. They blind us to the deeper call, Of conscience, the true judge of all. In this dance of life, so falsely led, By man-made laws, we're often misread. But listen close, to the heart's soft plea, Where conscience reigns, the soul is free. False is the law, a mere pretender, Next to conscience, warm and tender. It's here, in quiet introspection, We find our will’s true direction. So, break free from legalistic chains, Where falsity of law, no longer reigns. Let conscience lead, in its quiet thrill, Guided by a force, beyond our will. In this enlightened state, so bright, Conscience and free will unite. In harmony, they dance and twirl, Illuminating life’s every swirl. In this realm, where true self is found, Laws of men no longer bound. Here, in the spirit’s vivid embrace, We find our true, eternal grace. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 16, 2023) "Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven" (Lk. 6:37).

Guided by Truth's Radiant Gleam #15

Guided by Truth's Radiant Gleam In shadows' embrace, Guided by truth's radiant gleam, Question not your destined course. For in query’s chasm, Darkness splits the soul's force, Halting steps on doubt's sharp seam. Shed the armor of your fears, Or be lost in skepticism's tide, Where blood rivers weave their tears, And certainty is denied. Break free from the endless spin, The mad dance of night's cruel whim. Those once veiled in night's domain, Now seek life’s luminous flight, Carving a trail where none remain, In chariots bound for light’s bright gate. Eyes, once cloaked in night's refrain, Awaken to dawn’s first sight. In a world newborn from strife, In simplicity's cradle, life stirs. The harbinger of a new chapter, A beacon in time's endless verse. Yesterday, today, tomorrow's keeper, In this journey, you are the reaper. Yet beware the crown's deceit, Whispering falsehoods in the wind. “Seek the child, pure and meek, Return with news of where he's been, That I, too, may come and greet." So speaks the night, clothed in sin. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 11, 2023) The poem above was inspired by Matthew 2:2.

Embrace Yourself with Love #14

Embrace Yourself with Love In the garden of your soul, where feelings grow, Tend to every bloom, let self-love flow. In this nurturing, does awareness glow, A beacon within, in steady tow? Imagine then, this love's warm embrace, Reaching out, touching another's face. If every heart were so enlaced, Wouldn’t mental storms leave without a trace? For at the core of human strife, Is the neglect of one's own life. "I love others, yet forget my own," A silent whisper in the bone. Ancient words, like rivers, run clear, "Love thy neighbor," we're meant to hear. Yet a greater challenge, scriptures pose: To love our foes, and peace compose. In this quest, humanity's test unfurls, A journey to be our best in this world. To love like this, with self and foe, Is the bravest path we ever hoe. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 10, 2023)

Remove Your Sandals #13

Remove Your Sandals In sacred spaces tread with care, "Remove your sandals," echoes in the air. Our streets, our homes, not just thoroughfare, Treat them with respect, as if you were there. In your own abode, you walk with grace, But in ours, you leave a different trace. No spitting, littering, a disgraceful face, Our streets, our sanctum, your respect, our base. Think of your home, its sanctity so dear, Would you desecrate it, year by year? The streets we dwell in, hold them near, For every corner to us, is just as clear. Our toilets, not public, but a private space, We guard them dearly, not a commonplace. Where you see pavement, we see grace, A holy ground, not just an empty space. So when you pass through, remember our plea, "Our streets are sacred, as sacred as can be." In your shoes, our pain, can you not see? In bare feet, walk, feel our history. For we will wail, as the prophets once cried, Stripped of dignity, our tears haven't dried. Our mourning, deep as the owl's at night, A dragon's sorrow, in the fading light. So, pass not in haste, nor with shoes unshed, Our streets, our temples, where angels fear to tread. In reverence, pause, let your heart be led, "Remove your sandals," where our spirits are fed. "I am not worthy to untie the sandals on His feet." - John the Baptist -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 10, 2023)

Elegy of the Forgotten Streets #12

Elegy of the Forgotten Streets In the shadowed alleys where dreams once danced, Whisper not of slumbers lost, nor of forgotten chants. Those halcyon days, now shrouded in mist, Where hope flickered briefly, in a world amiss. Our city, a mausoleum of memories and dust, Enclosed by barriers, in despair we trust. The streets, a mosaic of desolation and dread, Home to the weary, where no dreams are bred. Here, in these forsaken paths, truth holds its ground, No one believes funerals outweigh the sound Of a heart's last beat, of a spirit's final breath. No one is blinded by facade, in the dance with death. The forsaken youth find solace in the night, Under neon skies, their only respite. The thoroughfares, veiled in a haze of despair, A testament to tomorrows that are no longer there. In this realm where sea and earth in sorrow blend, The streets resonate with the cries that ascend. A symphony of chaos, where all is undone, Where joy dissolves, and hope is overrun. In this labyrinth of loss, where the land betrays, The sea cloaks the heavens in a mournful haze. The earth, now a canvas of sand and sorrow, The ocean, a harbinger of no tomorrow. Tsunami of anguish, flooding our realm, In streets devoid of song, a desolate helm. Echoes of screams, a requiem of plight, In this world bereft of dance, devoid of light. Here, the specter of death holds greater sway, Than the fleeting breath of the living's fray. Yet in these streets, no soul is so deranged, To value mere appearances over the change That truth and reality bring to the fore, In this forgotten street, wisdom endures more. Reflecting on the plight of this forsaken age, Like children in marketplaces, ignored by the sage: "We played the flute for you, yet you did not sway; We sang a dirge, yet you turned away." (Mt 11:16-17) -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 9, 2023)

In Solitude's Embrace #11

In Solitude's Embrace Whispering doubts, echoing, "Just in case, just in case..." Can a heart, so human, endure this worldly space? Together we vowed to stay, until death parts our ways, But parting brings pain, a heartache that sways. In the dance of care, let sickness not dare, Wish for longevity, a life's path to share. Then, solitude arrives, a companion unseen, In its quiet, I find myself, finally serene. Loneliness stings, akin to the wind's fleeting sigh, Yet, it's but a moment's passage, under the vast sky. Alongside roads, cars find their rest, But what of the heart that beats in my chest? No car to call mine, a journey on foot I tread, With questions of kin, of roots, where is my homestead? An offer to share a life, a plea in the air, Is it a prison of solitude, a cell of despair? Destinations unknown, waiting, a silent yearn, As the costs of living, like tides, rise and turn. In this race so fierce, in this worldly strife, Is there a space for peace, a slice of life? In the whispers of old, a truth gently told, As even the wise and the wanderers bold, In scriptures, it's written, in verses, it's said, Foxes and birds, in their nests, find their bed. But the Son of Man, in his journey, his quest, Finds not a place for his weary head to rest (Matthew 8:20; Luke 9:58). So mirrors our path, in this world, so vast, In the search for belonging, for a peace that will last." - Written by Steven G. Lee (December 9, 2023)

Celestial Blossoms #10

Celestial Blossoms Unfettered, unclaimed, Where do the clouds find bloom? Adrift, sans wind's gentle whisper, Where do the ethereal veils conceal? Yonder, in the azure vast, A thunderbolt unfurls its petals. In the tumult of its fiery birth, Can silence ever grace our earthen cradle? For thee, With the agony of rending, resonant cries, and rivulets of sorrow, We emerge, we flourish beneath the terrestrial dome. How canst thou feign ignorance? -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 9, 2023)

Days Of Hiring #9

Days Of Hiring In the endless march of life, so weary, Do we toil, our burdens heavy, dreary? Longing for night's gentle hold, a sanctuary, Where in twilight's hush, our wars find their cemetery. But swiftly fades the night's brief solace, Dawn breaks harsh, with no trace of grace. Chains of daily labor, an unyielding embrace, On destiny's road, our weary souls race. A misdirected bullet, a path astray, Through my ankle, it found its way. Dawn's light ushers in the relentless fray, A silent scream, as pain holds sway. Every day, a weight too harsh to bear, Chasing goals in a life stripped bare. We flee into smoke, into spirits' lair, Surrendering to oblivion, in our despair. Once known, now cast aside, Branded "Homeless", "Addicts", in their stride. Marked by the beast, in shadows we hide, In our fiery trials, do our cries abide? Why does our pain, in its depths, allure? Fate's cruel eye, ever so sure. To the lost, do our dreams offer a cure? Yet time’s relentless march, remains ever pure. "Will my sins be washed away in the stream? Forgive my faults, let me redeem. ...When you seek me, I'll be a vanished dream" (Job 7:21). -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 8, 2023)

A Dance of Senses #8

A Dance of Senses In Silence, Hearts Pulse In the quiet, do hearts echo the rhythm's flow? Can unseen gazes grasp the dance's show? Where sound retreats, the dance whispers near, In a silent ballet, its language clear. Melodies Unheard Yet Felt To those in the hush of sound's embrace, Dance murmurs deeper than a song's trace. Each gesture crafts a tale untold, In silent beats, untold sagas unfold. Tapestry Woven in Darkness For whom night cloaks their visual sphere, Music paints the dance in hues clear. Every note, a painter's stroke fine, On the mind's canvas, a mute divine. Serenade of the Soul What for souls in stillness and gloom wrapped? With rhythm's touch, their spirit clapped. In the realm of feeling, vibrations soar, A symphony for each soul, a folklore. Feet Speak When Hands Cannot What if life's dance lacks the hands' grace? Feet speak in rhythm, leading the pace. An Invocation for Deeper Sight Heed the ancient wisdom's light, "Hearts hardened, senses veiled tight. Once awakened, they shall see, In understanding, find liberty" (Matthew 13:15). -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 8, 2023)

Like The Grass #7

Like The Grass In the meadow's embrace, we stand, akin to grass, Tender shoots under dawn's first gentle light. As morning mists retreat, too soon we pass, In the quiet night, without the storm's might. Deep in dreams' hold, where futures are cast, Yet, in rain's tender waltz, we find our flight. Through storms' fierce grasp, our spirits vast, We rise anew, in resilience bright. Sun's caress, a warm and golden bath, Embracing us in rays of hope and might. Though scorched, we stand, unswayed by wrath, Our spirit, a flame, burning ever bright. Even as we fade, to ashes and dust, Over silent graves, our whispers trust. In skies painted green, our memories thrust, A testament of life, love, and just. Like man, like grass, in time we sway— Flowers of the field, in colors array. With the wind's last sigh, we drift away, In the earth's embrace, where our hearts stay. (Psalm 103:15-16, echoing) -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 8, 2023)

Beyond Time's Measure #6

Beyond Time's Measure In a realm where time softly fades, gentle and slow, Echoes of truth in timeless gray shades, a subtle glow. Do you yearn merely to exist, or in depth seek to thrive? Beyond cold number’s relentless grip, Free from time’s granular slip, Do you aspire to deeply drink of life's drive? Not in this world’s stark sum of loss and gain, But in numbers' eternal dance, free of bane, Do you wish to move with life, in harmony strive? Life— Count not the years in weary strides, Nor months in their numbered tides; Defy the daily march, its rhythm contrive, Let hours and fleeting minutes pass, unalive. In a heartbeat, in the shedding of pride, Behold—a day’s vast canvas, wide. In that moment, let your thoughts dive. Within the calendar's relentless hold, Three hundred sixty-five days, stories old, A century dreamt in a blink, a mere archive. Yet, in 36,500 days, simplicity does thrive. Today's infants, in the time race, Will one day lead, setting the pace. Chart not your journey in ephemeral gold, Wealth and power, narratives bold; These are not where true values reside. When life’s essence in digits is told, In daily counts, in limits bold, Eons like moments in the mind glide, In existence’s boundless tide, untried. -Written by Steven G. Lee (November 26, 2023) The poem above was inspired by 2 Peter 3:8: "Beloved, do not let this one thing escape your notice: With the Lord, a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day."

Wanderer's Lament #5

Wanderer's Lament What fates have carved this path, so dim, so deep? Unspoken tales in shadows that we keep. In search of peace, yet gripped by life's harsh hand, In dreams alone, we seek an untouched land. Lost in the haze of drink, smoke's veil, the needle's lure, Yet in the silence, an echoing void, so pure. A burden borne, unyielding in its heft, Leading through aimless roads, a fate bereft. Family ties, once cherished, now whispers of regret, Loved ones lost to memory, their absence hard to forget. Shadows flicker under city lights, a fleeting, elusive scene, Alone like a stray, in solitude unseen. A soul adrift, sinking into silent woes, In depths unseen, a shadow's quest, it flows. At a forlorn stop, a question lingers in despair, "Where are you?" – a whisper to the vacant air. "As the deer longs for water, so I long for you, O Lord. My soul thirsts for the divine, the living word. When shall I stand before your grace, amidst my nightly tear? 'Where is your God?' they taunt, yet I hold you near." Inspired by Psalm 42:1 (Note: The inclusion of the Bible verse (Psalm 42:1) is kept as it was integral to the original poem's theme and closing.) Written by Steven G. Lee (December 7, 2023)

Echoes of Grace: The Prodigal's Path #4

Echoes of Grace: The Prodigal's Path In wanderlust, a sheep astray, Lost amidst the vast array. In the shepherd's heart, it stays, Seeking through the endless maze. A coin, once gleaming, now unseen, Lost in corners, once serene. A woman searches, hope unleaned, For what's lost must be redeemed. And then the son, in wild roam, Leaves his father's hearth and home. In distant lands, he comes to know The weight of solitude, alone. But in his heart, a stirring plea, For home and hearth, and family. A journey back, humble, free, To embrace a father's mercy. Yet stands the elder, heart encased, In judgment's cold, unwelcoming embrace. Resentful of the love and grace, Bestowed upon the errant's case. He, too, stands at redemption's door, Yet finds it hard to step ashore. His story, an open, unfinished lore, A heart in turmoil, a soul at war. How can he tread this path anew, The elder son, under heaven's view? His struggle, quiet, yet deep and true, In family's tale, a contrasting hue. So ponder deep, oh wandering heart, In life's vast tapestry, you're a part. In seeking, finding, a divine art, In God's embrace, a new start. Yet in the elder's eyes, a dizzy spin, A tale untold, where does one begin? For both sons' hearts, and all akin, God's grace awaits, to enter in. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 15, 2023) Luke 15:1-32

Sacred Echoes in the Present #3

Sacred Echoes in the Present Embrace the hallowed breath that ebbs and flows, Sense the sanctity where you firmly stand. Your deeds, pure and true as a child's innocent shows, In such sacred awareness, time and space grand. Hold with reverence what graces your hands, If your actions are bathed in divine light. In the craft of treasuring what life demands, Find the moment when sacred work takes its flight. Idolatry, not a far-flung domain, But a choice, near or distant, in your sight. Gaze upon the cross, Christ's unchanging refrain, Let your spirit linger, in presence and plight. - Written by Steven G. Lee (December 15, 2023) "The wind blows where it wishes. You hear its sound, but you do not know where it comes from or where it is going. So it is with everyone born of the Spirit. 'How can this be?'" -John 3:8-9

A Cross Between Heaven and Earth #2

In realms above, where light doth stream, No fences there, but glory's gleam. Yet, in that place of perfect day, A Cross stands tall, in stark array. It speaks of pain, of sacrifice, A love profound, heaven's device. A symbol stark, 'gainst azure skies, Of hope and sorrow, where truth lies. Below, in shadows' deep embrace, Where fences mar humanity's grace. Crafted in fear and dark deceit, In hell's hold, where woes repeat. These barriers, with gilded lies, Mask the truth, as virtue's guise. But 'neath the surface, pain resides, In chains of misery, where hope subsides. The Cross, a bridge 'twixt high and low, A beacon in our toil and woe. It calls for change, for hearts to mend, For heaven and hell, their divide to end. On earth, we stand, in pride and scorn, Veiling truth, in hypocrisy born. Yet, through the Cross, a path is shown, Where truth and grace are fully known. Recall the tale of wealth and woe, The rich man's feast, the beggar's throe. Lazarus, in his silent plea, Beneath the shadow of opulence, unfree. His sores, a sign of earth's neglect, A world that's lost, in respect. But over all, the Cross does loom, A symbol in our mortal gloom. It whispers of a greater plan, A bridge to heal the rift of man. A call to love, to rise above, In the light of sacrifice and love. So let us look upon that Cross, And see our gain, not just our loss. For in its arms, wide open, spread, Lies the path to where truth is led. In this journey, let the Cross be our guide, A symbol of hope, in which we confide. To bring together, what was apart, In the Cross, find the heart's true art. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 13, 2023) "If someone from the dead goes to them, they will repent" (Luke 16:30).

Echoes of Inner Genesis #1

Echoes of Inner Genesis In the realm where thoughts like rivers flow, From aimless streams to purposeful glow, A cosmic dawn within us starts to stir, A Genesis inside, profound and pure. With words as weavers, thoughts take shape and form, Revealing a maze where dreams and truths transform. Hidden paths in our minds' vast expanse, Where flaws and mysteries in tandem dance. Genesis beckons, a luminous guide, Urging hearts and souls to bravely stride. Through this mind's maze, ever intricate, In search of truths, both small and great. Hear the rhythm, vibrant and profound, In every pulse, wisdom's echoes resound. On this journey of insight and respect, We unite with the universe we reflect. -Written by Steven G. Lee (December 13, 2023)