Past Issues



"My Desire"

At Christmas time, children create lists
with the name of every toy ever desired.
I have a list of my own dear Lord;
one that is more spiritually inspired.
This is not a list to be submitted only once a year,
but on a continuous basis throughout my days.
It contains items that I cannot buy,
but truly need in so many ways.

This is my list...

When I don't feel like giving,
please give me the gift of generosity.
When someone needs my strength and support,
give me a shoulder of love and sincerity.

When I feel too rushed,
give me a sense of reassurance and peace.
When I dwell on things beyond my control,
please let all of my anxiety cease.

When I want things to go my way,
give me understanding and tolerance.
Lord, if someone has wronged me,
please give me a heart that holds no offense.

If I have offended someone,
give me the courage to apologize.
When my values are being challenged,
give me the conviction to look them in the eyes.

Where there is love,
let me give more than I receive.
When I am the object of praise,
please don't let my ego deceive.

When I see people in need,
please give me a heart of compassion.
My Lord, when I see wealth,
don't let greed become the situation.

Where there are communication gaps,
let me build the bridges.
Where there are different levels of understanding,
let me scale the ridges.

When this world makes me bitter,
remind me that you are in control.
When heartache leaves me feeling incomplete,
please fill that gap to make me whole.

When it's easy to spite someone,
remind me of the golden rule.
Give me just the right amount of wisdom,
please don't let me play the fool.

When I desire a crown of silver or gold,
give me one of servanthood instead.
When sin is being contemplated,
please step in and clear my head.

When gossip has it's opportunity,
let me turn away and remain unheard.
When I meet someone who needs to know you,
give me the courage to share your word.

I know this is a long list my Lord,
but these are the things that I desire.
Please fill me with the gifts that will make me
a servant of your will
                     with a passion for your word
                                           and a heart on fire!


by John Nordberg


1 Corinthians 14:12
So it is with you. Since you are eager to have spiritual gifts, try to excel in gifts that 
build up the church.

1 Peter 4:8-11
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.
Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever
gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its
various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as speaking the very words of God.
If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things
God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever
and ever. Amen.

                                       

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