louis gander, 19 march 2013
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Another child molested,
while we live unaware.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Abused and battered mothers -
but leave - they wouldn't dare.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
A mother and her daughter -
now homeless, in despair.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
They've no place with little food
and nothing much to wear.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Then a fellow takes them in -
another plight they share.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Tell yourself that they're okay -
it's not so bad out there.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Go about your business and
convince yourself it's rare.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Faithful always, our routine
with comfort in the air.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
It doesn't really matter.
It's happening elsewhere.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
We'd rather do the talking
from our most favorite chair.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Pray a few more minutes and
convince your God you care.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
Tell God about your troubles -
then see if He's unfair.
Goodnight my Christian brother.
Please say a little prayer.
'Common folk' to billionaire,
how little love we share.
©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
Matthew 25 (NASB)
42 '...for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat;
I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink;
43 I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in;
naked, and you did not clothe Me;
sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.'
louis gander, 19 march 2013
Who begins the timeline,
life's hourglass, brand new?
Excitement grasps first days of life
as grains of sand slip through.
Youthful times surround us.
We lack full wisdom's clue.
We learn to make decisions though,
as grains of sand slip through.
Middle age is stressful
with obligations due -
so we go about our business
as grains of sand slip through.
Oh, to know the answers -
and every facet knew -
so we prepare the answers then
as grains of sand slip through.
With sunset years upon us,
we find God's Word is true -
but still the days flee fast from us
as grains of sand slip through.
Who holds our real value -
and have regrets, will you -
as the hourglass stands empty and
the final grain slips through?
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
Ecclesiastes 9:12 (NASB) Moreover, man does not know his time: like fish caught in a treacherous net and birds trapped in a snare, so the sons of men are ensnared at an evil time when it suddenly falls on them.
louis gander, 19 march 2013
When all the richest people rest in graveyards,
before their grand possessions rot and rust,
I turn my eyes and humbly look to Heaven,
for Jesus is the only one I trust.
When all the famous celeb's rest in graveyards,
and all their loyal fans find other 'stars',
I turn my eyes and humbly look to Heaven,
for Jesus is my friend who holds the scars.
When all the greatest rulers rest in graveyards,
down underneath the oxen and the plows,
I turn my eyes and humbly look to Heaven,
for I have life which only God allows.
When all the folks around me fall to pieces,
solutions sought - but they can find them not -
I shake my head in wonder with the Heavens,
for I have Him whom they have all forgot.
When all the world can wonder why I'm happy -
and simple minds can't seem to understand,
I simply trust God's promises in Heaven,
continuing to hold His loving hand.
When friends and family wonder why I journey,
to places in my thoughts they'll never know -
horizons of my faith still kiss the Heavens,
as that's the path I'm traveling below.
©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
Job 23 (NASB)
10 "But He knows the way I take;
When He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold.
11"My foot has held fast to His path;
I have kept His way and not turned aside.
12"I have not departed from the command of His lips;
I have treasured the words of His mouth more than my necessary food.
louis gander, 18 march 2013
In despair,
we'll sometimes be.
At these times can we cope?
Yet always free,
if we can see
the One who offers hope.
©2011 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
louis gander, 17 march 2013
This is a poem I wrote back in 2008 to noone in particular...
This big, bright world,
is like a drawer full of lace,
though I am but a leftover rag;
quite awkward, uneasy,
and so out of place.
Lace is chosen
by those with whom they connect.
and selecting their own special piece;
they want their lives
to be so perfect.
Then stew they will
when things go terribly wrong.
Their lace gets soiled, stained and tattered.
For this worlds special lace
doesn’t last too long.
They’re all sewn up,
still seeking what cannot mend....
But this leftover rag- this old scrap of burlap;
though nowhere near perfect,
is still your special friend.
©2008 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
louis gander, 15 march 2013
FOR MANY YEARS they crowded me -
they grew so very tall...
but You, my Lord, had stunted me -
created me so small.
They pushed me off
and stole the sun,
and rose up to the sky...
but every year You held me down
and I had wondered why.
The winds and rain
blew very hard.
Beneath them I was crushed...
and You, my Lord, had gone away.
My blaring screams were hushed.
For many years this happened -
and they'd ignore my plea...
and You, my Lord, seemed not to care,
when they would laugh at me.---
So many years have passed since then -
a hundred years or so...
yet You, my Lord, answered my prayers,
and patience let me grow.
A million weeds had laughed at me -
yet long ago they passed...
and You, dear Lord, protected me,
just as my prayers had asked.
For many years Your little tree -
was pushed around by weed...
but oh, dear Lord, You strengthened me
and met my every need.
And now today, I tower high.
I'm seen for many miles -
but oh, dear Lord, You've taught me well.
You've humbled all my smiles.
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
Psalm 37:7 (NASB) Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes.
louis gander, 14 march 2013
A tiny little kitten
whose feet were very sore,
wandered through the drifting snow
and right up to my door.
The weak meowing stirred me,
and drew me when she cried.
I crossed my room with aging feet,
inviting her inside.
She shivered and was hungry,
was frightened, very weak.
Confused, she wasn't trusting,
her future somewhat bleak.
Now even though I loved her,
I saw a troubled sign.
I thought about it for a bit -
compared her life to mine...
As she warmed up to me a bit,
I let her eat and rest -
but ran, she did, if I came close -
afraid of me, I guessed.
Now I was like that kitten,
and it became quite clear -
that I was frightened, ran away,
when Jesus got too near.
Then as the days kept rolling by,
she finally did prefer -
to be around and close to me.
She knew that I loved her.
Before I learned that God so loved,
my life was very grim.
And though He loved me very much,
I had no faith in Him.
Knowing that I love her so
and take good care of her -
knowing that I listen when
I hear her prayerful purr -
defines a word called "faithfulness",
defines a true belief -
not wandering out aimlessly
in blowing snow and grief.
So now you'll find her in my lap,
a tiny ball of fuzz -
but she had taught me faithfulness.
I know it's true because -
I once roamed like this kitten,
where snow and drifting harms,
but now I lie in pastures green -
with Jesus, in His arms.
©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
louis gander, 13 march 2013
Spectacular wonder, the view way out yonder,
from high on this mountain slope.
God's vast great creation brings glad adoration
to Jesus who offers us hope.
From just one small seed, a potential indeed,
once crushed, by mistake, underfoot.
I whispered a prayer and stepped over where
another small sapling took root.
And on that rock shelf I thought to myself,
"Oh, how can that seedling be grown,
up here where it toils in hard rocky soils,
in midst of more turmoils not known?"
Then over the years through blizzards and fears
rose doubts that had made me take pause,
"It sure hadn't thrived but had it survived?
Had it overcome nature's laws?"
Now several years later I found something greater
when I returned back to that tree.
I had to admire, it soared so much higher,
and grew so much taller than me.
It once had been crushed, but now I am hushed,
and humbled at what God had done.
One tiny example of something we trample
brings life from the tomb of His Son!
A long time ago under hail and snow,
despite its long discord and strife,
its tap root enlocked way down deep in a rock
that faithfully brought it to life!
Oh, why can't I be like that evergreen tree,
that grew up so high in the sky?
The greenest of green that I've ever seen,
oh tell me Lord, why cannot I?
Spectacular wonder, the view way out yonder,
from high on this mountain slope.
God's vast great creation brings glad adoration
to Jesus who offers me hope.
©2012 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
louis gander, 11 march 2013
Now everyone was nervous here and not a thing made sense.
The Judge had entered quietly. The room was very tense.
"Let's only hear the gospel truth and accusations quench!
This court is now in session!" said 'His Honor' from the bench.
The 'Whip' was not at all deterred and spoke up suddenly,
"Alive, He was, when I was done - untied and then set free!
But I had noticed something else when He had left my place.
I saw Him with the rugged 'Cross'. Now that's your real case!"
The 'Cross' responded bluntly and without an ounce of tact,
"It wasn't me, Your Honor sir, and that is just a fact!
I didn't do a single thing and really, I did care.
I merely was the backdrop for the 'Nails' had held Him there!"
The 'Nails', three, were hence accused but chimed in unison,
"It wasn't us who had Him killed (God's one and only Son).
When all the three of us looked up, the truth had come to light -
that wicked "Crown' had pierced His scalp and made a gruesome sight!"
Then hushed, the crowd, who set their eyes on such a cruel 'Crown' -
but it had sought the mercy of the Judge with sorry frown.
And then it weaved so carefully a short and subtle lie,
"It wasn't I who killed Him sir, the 'Whip' caused Him to die!"
And so it was that blame was passed around, around again -
so tell me, "What had killed Him then - just plain and simple sin?"
Yes, then that Judge, with piercing eye, had raised his brow at me,
and said, "You are the guilty one! I sentence you to be..."
But then that very instant, a gentle voice was heard.
His voice had calmed the courthouse down - and every heart was stirred.
"Release those who've repented and were faithful through and through.
For I have paid the highest price and saved their souls too."
The Judge slammed down His gavel hard - and said, "I will it so!"
And that is where this story ends. Are you prepared to go?
Don't be the Whip, Cross, Nails or Thorns- who passed their guilt along -
who tried to blame somebody else and claimed they did no wrong.
The heart you have you made yourself. You're humble or you're proud -
so if acceptance you must have, you're lost just like the crowd.
How long has pride now stole your soul? Days, weeks or months, or years?
Don't pass the blame to someone else, but show the Lord some tears...
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
louis gander, 6 march 2013
I'm just a toad who had thought he'd been kiss-ed,
but then had found out that no princess exist-ed.
But how was I (a wee toad) to know -
that I hadn't changed as of yet and so -
don't ever think that your prince, by you, rode -
for deep down inside this bright armor's a toad...
~gander Copyright 2013
louis gander, 5 march 2013
A knight in shining armor? I certainly am not -
but if, indeed, I really was, you just might laugh a lot.
I'd be astride my big white horse, (a stallion through and through)
riding straight and very tall - and trotting right past you.
You'd see my polished armor and you'd see the golden trim -
just before I ride my horse right under one low limb.
I'd be a bit embarrassed there while lying on my back.
You'd see my pretty armor with some punctures, dents and crack.
My horse would keep on galloping as it ran out of sight.
I wouldn't know quite what to say except, "I'll be all right."
You'd tell me calmly, "Do not move." and also "Just stay put."
And then you'd see my armor covered with the blackest soot.
It's after that, I'd just admit, that I had tried to flee -
that big ol' angry dragon whose hot flame had bested me.
No, I'm not a noble knight nor any princess charmer.
I've make too many dumb mistakes to be a knight in armor.
Therefore, as a princess, you will need to wait awhile -
and grab the next knight riding by that's full of charm and style.
He'd pull you up behind him on his horse, you'd yell, "Goodbye!"
Of course, I would apologize and once again, I'd cry...
I've done so much for everyone- have given things and stuff -
but this I've learned- I'm not a knight- nor nearly good enough.
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
louis gander, 3 march 2013
Oh, I remember back, when young -
the pirate tales from grandpa's tongue -
where peg-legged men with but one eye
had sought their treasures, chanced to die.
Now Captain Pirate had a hook
and he cared not from whom he took.
He boarded ships and stole their goods -
then hid his treasures in the woods.
And on the ship - he had some men -
who helped him rob now and again.
At times they partied and they drank. -
If one was rude, he'd walk the plank.
Now this old pirate wasn't fair -
and got so drunk he didn't care.
It didn't matter who he killed -
just so his humor was fulfilled.
A wee bit close, I happened near -
lost both my boots and lost my gear.
They tied me up that very night -
my wrists had hurt, the rope was tight.
Then one pulled quick, his shiny sword -
and threw me on that weathered board.
The ocean deep, the water black,
I felt his sword pressed to my back.
So I stepped out - again, again,
with nudges felt from earthly sin.
The steps I took were very short
but that old plank gave me support.
I thought quite quick but took some pause -
reflecting on life's silly laws.
So blinded by life's codes and rules,
I had nothing - them, the jewels.
Hoping here on earth I'd stay,
I stepped through life from day to day.
And this I knew, could not pretend -
this plank was short. There was an end.
My weight pushed low the outer ledge.
My toes could feel the very edge.
No turning back, what's done is done -
no place to turn - no place to run.
Our bodies end with earthly goals
as all life ends, but not our souls.
Emotions quake, as body shakes,
but after death, the soul awakes.
Oh, they held truth (though they got old)
those pirate tales that grandpa told,
but futile is a life that's wed -
with both the soul and body dead.
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
louis gander, 28 february 2013
Oh, just as winds will carry on -
for years and centuries,
mere words cannot describe my love.
They pass with every breeze.
The winds still make it futile
as words pass by above –
but if I could grab hold of one,
I’d grab the word called ‘love’.
Words may describe a landscape -
some animals or birds,
but never is your picture worth
a mere one thousand words.
Oh, it would take a million words,
and then a billion more -
but have you time to listen as
I stand here at your door?
For every time your doorbell rings,
you yell, “Please stay away!”
but I have yet to even knock.
I’ve found no words to say...
Your doorbell keeps on ringing though
by yet another guy -
who runs on off to other doors -
and other doorbells try.
It seems I've stood forever –
but I will never quit -
in hopes that privately your door
will open up a bit.
Mere words don't mean so very much.
Our love was meant to be -
so I’ll keep standing at your door,
until you notice me.
--------
And then, by chance, your door should crack
and open up a bit -
I'd show you to your porch swing and
encourage you to sit.
Should sound not find my wordless lips
I'd take my nervous arm -
and put it 'round your shoulders with
a meek romantic charm.
Mere thoughts would run throughout my head -
for possibly a mile -
but then I'd hold your hand a bit -
as we sat there awhile.
My passion and my energy
could not hold back the bliss -
so then I'd lean right over and
I'd give your cheek a kiss.
I'd hold you close there in my arms
emotions on the move -
and there I'd stay committed as
my fervent love would prove.
The sun would set, but there we'd sit
in one prolonged embrace -
as words would still be meaningless
when I look in your face.
Oh, guys would still come knockin' -
recite their newest line -
but love cannot be broken now -
as you're forever mine.
And girls, also, just like words,
lack all their meaning too.
For I have packaged all my love -
and give it all to you.
~gander Copyright 2013
louis gander, 26 february 2013
I read, re-read her letter
a mere one-hundred times.
Her thoughts were pure and priceless,
in words of perfect rhyme.
I hadn't seen her smiling face,
but I will always be -
drawn, as if by magnet,
to her magnetically.
I hadn't heard her 'angel' voice
that sings as waves would flow -
yet somehow she has drawn me in
to shore where waters go.
I hadn't smelled her sweet perfume,
as garden full of flowers.
But oh, if I had breathed them in,
I'd be under her powers.
I hadn't held her fingers yet -
or hand in tender way -
or hugged her tightly when she hurt -
or kissed her tears away...
But oh, I understand her well -
and really must disclose -
that she's is kind and loving as,
a precious, perfect rose.
A rose that blooms so purely,
in rich, romantic hue.
A rose that grows securely,
in greatness through and through.
Her kindness and compassion
prove true humility -
so I'll embrace forever -
the letter she sent me.
~gander Copyright 2013
louis gander, 25 february 2013
Please tell me that it isn't so.
Please tell me that you needn't go.
I've been awake all day and night.
Please let me that you'll be alright.
But something reached down deep inside -
and seized my guts until I cried.
That 'something' pulled me in-side-out.
It hurt so bad, I had to shout!
Though we've shared words, this is the case -
that I've not seen your smiling face.
I haven't seen your flowing hair -
yet this is true: Please know I care.
My prayers for you are true, sincere.
"Please get well soon" cries every tear.
Though I've not seen your 'sunshine' eyes -
of this I'm sure, you're very wise.
Please know that this is not a game -
I only know your lovely name.
Your health is dire - and this I fear.
Yet not one little peep I hear.
Please tell me- tell me all is fine!
Where's the signal? Where's the sign?
That there's no news, has taken toll.
Stiff silence stabs my inner soul.
The clock keeps running- tock and tick.
Not knowing makes me really sick.
I wish I knew right where you were.
My tight embrace would surely cure.
Your favorite poem, I'd recite.
I'd sit beside you day and night.
But I don't have those super powers
to bring bouquet of fresh-cut flowers.
Yet my concern runs really deep
so I'm awake and cannot sleep.
Wait! Now again, my soul hums!!
Because your message finally comes :)
I'll be excited, so reassured -
when, at last, I hear you're cured.
Up and walking, quickly be -
smiling widely, you and me :)
~gander Copyright 2013
louis gander, 24 february 2013
I cannot serve two masters. I serve, but only one,
for if I love some sinfulness, I hate God's only Son.
Could I walk in His sandals? Do I really understand?
Of what would it encompass? Of what would it demand?
Could I put up with some abuse, and could I humbly be,
a whipping board of insults, for all to scoff at me?
Could I withstand a whipping? Tell me, would I know,
the pain down in my open wounds, torn flesh from every blow?
Could I, but bear the privilege - to be a king renowned,
my face stained in bloody streaks from such a thorny crown?
And would I know the cost of love, our God's most precious grace,
or would I simply think of me and hate the human race?
Could I endure the anguish then, as ropes bind hands and feet,
so knotted up so tightly that - I'd give in to defeat?
There on my back, could I stare at - a spike set on my skin,
then watch them take a heavy stone and slam it deep within?
Oh, I would know what's coming next. I'd clench my other fist.
Could I endure another nail- or would I just resist?
Then tortured even further, could pain be so complete,
when to the cross I'm nailed with- another through my feet?
Slowly ropes raise cross and I. The base slides in the hole.
Then in ghastly, horrid pain, would that jerk shake my soul?
So there I'd hang, alone up high- for all to mock and hate.
Could I endure the anguish then? Can I, to that relate?
Could I survive for several hours in pain and endless shame?
and would I ask forgiveness for those that I could blame?
Could I die for ALL the world- their sinful sacrifice -
and know that few would love me? Would that, for me, suffice?
Would my final miracle call for heavenly hosts -
or would I yield to Father's will and then give up the ghost?
No, hate and anger would not end. The sword would pierce my side....
Oh, would I slip away and hide? Which way would I decide?
His sandals are too large to fill. His time, so long ago,
and Heaven- much too far away, while I'm down here below.
But could I wear His sandals- if I was called upon,
and are my trials greater that- I'd gladly put His on?
He demands my little faith. He holds no speck of wrath,
when He's a lamp unto my feet- a light unto my path.
Yes, I wear His sandals- for I've been called upon
and faithful every morning I now slip them boldly on.
This poem may explain it- but who really understands?
For every sin that we commit puts nails through Jesus' hands.
We cannot serve two masters. We serve, but only one.
We have to hate all sinfulness, to love God's only Son.
©2007 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
Luke 16:10 (NASB) "He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much.”
-------
louis gander, 23 february 2013
Now forty lashes - minus one
The torture, anguish has begun.
Thirty-nine lashes, horrid pain,
I can't endure - but won't complain.
A crown of thorn cuts in so deep,
Energy gone, I've got to sleep.
But on my back, a timber placed -
it weighs a ton, blood/sweat I taste.
I feel the cross beside my face.
I cannot walk a faster pace.
Skin open rips - each time I slip,
so tighter, I must keep my grip.
Each step I take is harder still
when trudging up this cruel hill.
The slivers pierce me as I trod,
both big and small - please help me God.
Please give me strength - for Heaven's sake
for every muscle in me aches.
With that huge cross along my back,
my knees give out. My legs go slack.
Exhausted, I can hardly crawl
and then I drop it as I fall.
My shoulder hurts, the pain intense -
then they all stare in awed suspense.
I can't hold it any more
yet I know next, what is in store.
My lungs hurt so, I've lost my breath -
but give me strength before my death.
At the top, I finally rest -
but now this cross, my final test.
I love you all - am faithful still,
right here on top of Calvary's hill.
Yet all the pain endured thus far
cannot erase the sins that are.
Sacrifice, death - wages of sin -
now demand pain on the cross begin.
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
--------
louis gander, 23 february 2013
I think about her every day
and also all today.
If I could say some words to her,
well this is what I'd say:
If we should meet, our hearts would beat
together right in time -
as music notes our thoughts would float
in harmonizing rhyme.
We would not fear for truth is here.
Our minds will not be crushed.
The air above holds perfect love
and it will not be hushed.
Some day we'll see that patiently
our worlds will become one.
That day the birds will sing these words -
"Their lives have just begun."
I think about her every day
and also all today.
If I could say some words to her,
well that is what I'd say...
~gander Copyright 2013
louis gander, 22 february 2013
The stars come out to welcome me. The sun had set so fast.
I need to live a simple life, forgetting evil's past.
Here, I'm at peace with all my friends - at this, my Alma mater.
A seagull swoops so ever low as wingtip kisses water.
Now true friends have a way of understanding every word -
though swaying branches speak to me in language never heard.
But I can understand them all, for I've been here before.
So lonely are the busy ones who only hear the shore.
The moon looks down with saddened frown. I sense it's message there,
"We love it when you visit us. We really, truly care."
But even so, I soon must go. Much stronger, blows a breeze.
It's whisper lingers, "Do not go. Stay longer, if you please."
Each time I leave I don't forget their many loving ways.
They're etched into my mem'ry like- the sunset's brilliant rays -
that shower down around me as a rainbow's vivid hues
and light up like a halo to enhance all nature's views.
Between my obligations, torn - decisions I regret -
then say, the leaves up in the trees, "Please do not leave us yet."
And say, the little waves on shore (as they splash near my feet),
"To have you here- to talk to is- a real cheerful treat."
So I respond in loving kind, "God made you so divine!
You'll always be my sincere friends. The pleasure is all mine!
"I so enjoy our favorite talks and I, great wonders, see.
So rich, our time together is. I love your company."
Reflecting off the water's waves, the lights from distant shore -
still seem to make me want to stay and talk a little more.
Yet like the sun, I now must run. The sky is turning black.
They may not know I love them so, but I'll be coming back.
Just one more time, I soak it in. God always makes it right.
"I'll miss you all, my dearest friends- and bid you all Good night!"
I turn to take a final glance before I walk away.
I hesitate, a tear slips down. There'll be another day.
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
-------
louis gander, 20 february 2013
You float above your body,
ascending into sky.
You hear the angels singing.
You're really not sure why.
You hear them a Cappella,
for just a song or two -
and then the instruments chime in
which take all breath from you.
Tall, massive sculptured columns
hold alabaster beams -
high above your stature.
It, overwhelming, seems.
The granite steps are pure as glass.
The huge and massive doors -
now open up, reveal in full,
the warmest parquet floors.
A bright light draws you hither,
between the velvet walls.
You hear those massive doors go shut.
A hollow echo calls.
But you have done no walking.
You simply float along -
until you enter room that holds
ten thousand angels strong.
The ceiling seems a mile high,
with walls a mile wide!
There is no time to make amends,
there is nowhere to hide.
Intimidated by this all,
in center of the room -
with bulging eyes, your jaw has dropped.
You hear a massive "boom"!
You're stripped of all possessions.
You're standing there alone.
The gong still echoes in your ears -
and God is on the throne!
Your earthly life, you quick relive.
Oh, what have you achieved?
Exposed and feeling guilty now,
have truly, you believed?
You knew that judgment day would come -
but why was it so soon?
You've missed your last vacation
and it is now 'high noon'.
Lightning cracks with thunder!
You think it very odd -
but then you understand it all.
It is the voice of God!!
Your mouth still hangs wide open.
You cannot even squeak -
and then begin to wonder -
will Jesus stand to speak...?
Oh, one more chance, you wish you had -
but it will never be -
for you are reading this right now -
and yet, you cannot see -
nor hear Him knocking on your heart,
the door to your own soul.
However, if you let Him in -
then He will make you whole.
Not even you can be so bad
that you have lost all heart -
for Christ had died for everyone -
including you - so start.
Two thousand thirteen years ago
it took a real Man
to sacrifice Himself for you.
Repent in tears. You can.
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 17 february 2013
(from a woman's perspective...)
Damp were the petals, kissed by the dew,
on bright, vibrant rose held up for my view -
from soft velvet fingers and unweathered skin
from one faithful heart full of true love within.
The rose was exquisite, so perfect to see -
with flower now open so beau-ti-ful-ly.
It seemed to rest easy on leaves of bright green -
(if now, you could only imagine the scene).
Behind that great gift was another one too -
who whispered poetically, "Oh, how I love you!"
It floated from voice so familiar to me
that stopped my whole world - instantly, briefly.
He caught me off-guard and I must concede
that inside his heart was a great love indeed.
For there behind raised arm, so patient and mild -
I saw the cute face of my very own child.
Reached, I there down - and speaking in prose,
I said, "Thank you child." accepting the rose.
And then to the side, I gave curtain a push -
and sure enough missing, my rose from rose bush.
But forced I a smile and gave him a kiss -
for this is one day that I'll soon reminisce.
His innocent countenance had drawn me to pray,
"Thank you, dear Lord, for my child today."
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 15 february 2013
"Love our dear Valentine" we always say,
whenever we think of Valentine's Day.
Big hugs and kisses and also some fun -
is love's expression for our 'special one'.
Flowers, dinner, and maybe some wine -
as we treat our 'sweethearts' especially fine.
But oh, long ago on one fateful day -
when we threw our greatest of loves away -
Hatred surpassed all the love we had won -
as hugs were not there when the nailing begun.
Thorns replaced flowers, and then sour wine -
and that's how we treated our Lord divine."
Love our dear Valentine" we always say,
but how do we love the Savior today?
©2010 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 13 february 2013
With waves that crash upon the beach,
my love rolls further in to reach -
and further up, they roll some more -
I haven’t loved like this before.
I never thought I’d fall in love,
but you’re the one I’m dreaming of.
I close my eyes in your embrace,
and still I see your lovely face.
I kiss your lips and hold you close
but never get my final dose.
We hug so tightly for so long -
in arms of love we both belong.
I peer into your pretty eyes -
oh, please don’t love the other guys.
Their love for you can’t be this strong -
and can’t be tear-filled for as long.
Each time I think about your pain,
I cry but it is all in vain -
yet nature knows the sun won’t shine,
until her raindrops fall with mine.
So when it rains just think of me,
my tears of love will always be.
With every tear of mine I cry.
I’ll wash your pain and hurt good-bye.
I’ll kiss each sore, each scar, each kind -
until your smiling face I find.
I’ll kiss you often and so deep.
Please tell me that I’m yours to keep!
The rain will end and will succumb
to colors when the rainbows come.
And as the sun shines bright above
it will expose our perfect love.
When we’re apart, I’m very blue,
I just can’t get enough of you.
Your lovely hair, your pretty nose,
your perfect legs, your tiny toes…
As every wave keeps rolling in,
I cannot hold my love within.
My thoughts run quickly – run so deep,
but you my Love, I’ll always keep.
Your beauty cannot be replaced.
Your silhouette, my memory traced.
You are so perfect – know it’s true.
Oh, please believe that I love you.
My love is soft and does ignite
a cry for you each lonely night.
There’s something special deep inside
which you and I can never hide.
You stole my heart. It’s all yours, but
it’s very fragile - delicate.
So promise me, that you won’t break
this tender heart, if you should take.
For if your love, away should fly,
my soul would shriek and I would die.
The earth would shake. With stomach curled,
they’d hear me scream around the world.
I’d get so sick and turn away -
I’d die a million times that day.
I love you more than you could know -
So never, ever let me go.
The water’s vast between each shore -
but this is true - I love you more.
My waves of love keep rolling in.
Together, may our lives begin?
As I need air – I so need you -
so please, my Love - please love me too.
Tell me yes and not just maybe -
be my Princess, Barbie baby.
If there are tears, I’ll kiss them dry,
so smile with me and do not cry.
Walk close with me on golden sands,
forever always, hand in hand.
©2010 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
louis gander, 12 february 2013
Before we both met - so lonely I was.
I cannot explain it - but maybe because....
Two rabbits were playing in grasses, lush green -
enjoying the sunshine - a sight so serene.
Two love birds were playing and choosing a path -
still making life’s choices, while taking a bath.
Two flowers were growing, though so intertwined -
but not at all trapped and supporting in kind.
Two ducks in the water - a hen and a drake,
were always together - on their private lake.
One day very lonely - the sun would soon set -
but then I saw something I’d never forget.
There, two lovers kissing, embraced on the shore.
It burned in my memory – as never before.
I peered in the water but all I could see -
was my lone reflection - a lonely 'one' (me).
The sun set behind them, the outline of two –
but I kept on dreaming - of being with you.
And now that I met you – I’m happy because,
I remember how lonely - how lonely I was....
I’m glad that I waited – great patience a plus –
My memory’s now real when others see us....
as lovers on beaches with magical charms -
we’re wrapped in caresses, in each others’ arms.
None will know passion - or ever forget -
as we are embracing in our silhouette -
still kissing each other as passions arise -
in silhouette fashion - against evening skies.
©2010 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
louis gander, 9 february 2013
The muscles tighten in my face
and tears come to my eyes -
each time I think of how you hurt
or hear your helpless cries.
You know if I could help you out,
I'd stop your pain today.
I'd use my little magic wand
to whisk them all away.
But if my magic wand was broke,
I'd buy them all with cash -
and then I'd torch each single one
and turn them into ash.
But if I couldn't burn them up
I'd open up your heart -
I'd take your sorrows- all of them -
and tear them all apart.
But if I couldn't tear them up
then I'd go to great length -
to throw your burdens off a cliff,
with every ounce of strength.
But if I wasn't strong enough
I'd haul them, height and breadth -
then watch them all splash overboard
into the ocean's depth.
But if your burdens didn't sink,
I'd work for many years -
right along beside you where
I'd kiss away your tears.
But if I couldn't dry your tears
I'd wish beyond degree -
that all your hurts would melt away
until you're bright with glee.
More tears go streaking down my cheeks.
I see you in great pain -
and now I've proven I can't help.
My work is all in vain.
Oh, how it saddens me to know
that I can't do a thing.
Yet God can heal your broken heart -
and that's why angels sing...
So smile awhile and lift your voice -
a voice so filled with love!
For those who hate will wallow here -
as you ascend above!
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 7 february 2013
FOR MANY YEARS they crowded me -
they grew so very tall...
but You, my Lord, had stunted me -
created me so small.
They pushed me off and stole the sun,
and rose up to the sky...
but every year You held me down,
and I had wondered why.
The winds and rain blew very hard
beneath them I was crushed...
and You, my Lord, had gone away,
my blaring screams were hushed.
For many years this happened -
and they'd ignore my plea...
and You, my Lord, seemed not to care,
when they would laugh at me.
---
So many years have passed since then -
a hundred years or so...
yet you, my Lord, answered my prayers,
and patience helped me grow.
A million weeds had laughed at me -
yet long ago they passed...
and you, dear Lord, protected me,
just as my prayers had asked.
For many years Your little tree -
was pushed around by weed...
but oh, dear Lord, You strengthened me
and met my every need.
And now today, I tower high.
I'm seen for many miles -
but oh, dear Lord, You taught me well,
and humbled all my smiles.
©2009 louis gander - ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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Psalm 37:7 (NASB) Rest in the LORD and wait patiently for Him; Do not fret because of him who prospers in his way, Because of the man who carries out wicked schemes.
louis gander, 3 february 2013
I'd love to be a poet - a real one, you know -
so I could write man's world off allowing God's to glow.
I'd write a wondrous story, that we could all take part
and live it in reality - each one with perfect heart.
I'd think outside my circle, with paper, ink and pen -
and think outside my flimsy box to live in peace again -
in gardens filled with blossoms - all colors full and bold -
that I could sweep my arms across and many flowers hold.
I'd jump inside my story with animals and birds,
living in His nature and camouflaged with words -
that whisper as the breezes in true harmonic cord,
that bring us lives so unsurpassed when living with our Lord.
I'd peer up to the mountains, at several waterfalls,
that rain grace down from Heaven where every angel calls -
to show to us a perfect world where He can overwhelm -
where man rejects but God perfects His great creation's realm.
I'd never hide inside my world, but fully would expect -
that men would treat each other with a solemn, deep respect -
that women dress with modesty and also could endow -
that girls learn to curtsy slow and boys would learn to bow.
I'd stroll inside my poem free from envy, sin and hate -
and walk beside still waters where 'the way' is always straight.
And I shall keep on writing true for many, many years -
until I see no longer through my sad and yearning tears.
I'd love to be a poet - a real one, you know -
so I could write man's world off allowing God's to glow.
I'd write a wondrous story, that we could all take part
and live it in reality - each one with perfect heart.
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 2 february 2013
The sun was rising in the east
behind some hitching posts -
and weathered boards, on buildings old,
had nothing left to boast.
But I wore fancy cowboy duds,
I was a handsome sight.
A crowd of people gathered 'round
to watch this old gun fight.
The street was dead and empty
except for sin and I -
and how I ended up out here,
I'm really not sure why.
A bullet? Very perilous
if we've no self-control -
and sin is much more dangerous,
because it kills the soul.
Now noon met with humidity.
The sun was dry and hot.
Some beads of sweat rolled down my face -
my stomach, in a knot.
But no, I wasn't nervous -
though duel had begun.
I counted out ten paces -
then turned and drew my gun.
But sin is faster, furious -
much quicker than the eye.
Oh please! Dear Lord and Saviour -
I do not want to die!
And then... in just an instant,
I dropped down to my knees.
I fell as peace passed over me
and felt the gentle breeze.
But something stood in front of me.
Its shadow crossed my face.
I then saw Jesus on that cross.
He took my very place.
Ashamed, I dropped my pistol.
My pride was killed that day -
as I pulled off my fancy boots
and flung my hat away.
Now humbled on the dusty street
with crowded eyes on me -
my every pride had vanished as
I learned humility.
In faithfulness, I stood again,
though I was at a loss...
Oh, how could Jesus love me so
from that old rugged cross?
The sun was setting in the west
behind some hitching posts.
And weathered boards, on buildings old,
had nothing left to boast.
©2012 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 31 january 2013
I wander yonder over hills where those before me trod -
aimlessly through wants and needs. I find it somewhat odd.
I wander yonder guessing so and pay a heavy price -
by following some friends I have and words of ill-advice.
I wander yonder through my life and laugh along the way -
deceiving self, believing I am happy every day.
I wander yonder up until the day I get so old -
a speck of truth will be revealed that I had not been told.
I wander yonder 'til the time that I begin to ponder -
God's great faithful, loving Son, so full of grace and wonder.
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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louis gander, 29 january 2013
. . . . and bring our love around again in selfless peace that has no end -
as with a circle bright and true, is love of fam'ly, love of friend -
though some may laugh while others grieve, forgiveness we can sure achieve,
through God's vast blessings scattered 'round so those in need can hence receive -
the Son of God who's virgin born - through whip and nails and piercing thorn -
our sacrifice, the ultimate - a perfect Savior, bloody, torn -
because God loved and likewise we, bring certain hope that others see -
these blessings of a risen Lord so that they too could also be
in peace that's pure as snowy dove while singing praise to God above -
while standing faithful hand in hand in this, our circle filled with love . . . .
©2013 louis gander ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
http://www.ganderpoems.org/
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