Learning To Trust (Poem)

Learning To Trust

I am learning, Lord;
Growing stronger day by day.
There’s a closeness, there’s an intimacy
With You, when I kneel and pray.

I am leaning, Lord;
Depending so much more upon You.
When the world crowds in around me,
You are the only one I long to view.

I am loving, Lord;
I’m no longer the person I used to be.
Through Your Word, I am transformed,
I see Your Holy Spirit working through me.

I am listening, Lord;
Whether these raging storms come or stay;
Trusting in every trial, in every situation,
I know in my heart, You will make a way.

Making molehills out of mountains,
With hind’s feet, I now have the victory.
Growing in my faith, by leaps and bounds -
I pray others can see Jesus Christ in me.

I am learning, Lord.

May 13th, 2026
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to my Sister in life and Sister in Christ,
Lori Tremblay.
Happy Birthday, Sis!)

He maketh my feet like hinds' feet,

and setteth me upon my high places.

Psalm 18:33

So then faith cometh by hearing,
and hearing by the word of God.

Romans 10:17

But thanks be to God,

which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1 Corinthians 15:57

Have You Any Room For Jesus? (Hymn/Devotional)

 Have You Any Room For Jesus?

It is almost Christmas once again. Looking forward to time we will spend with family and friends. All too often we forget the meaning behind this holiday - the meaning we say we are celebrating Christmas for!

In the book of Luke, we see how their Heavenly Father worked out all things so that Jesus would be born of a virgin and be born in Bethlehem, in fulfilment of prophecy.

Luke 2:1-5 And it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.) And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city. And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; (because he was of the house and lineage of David:) To be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, being great with child.

But all was not as rosy as it appeared. After travelling for days to get to Bethlehem, the married couple could not find anywhere to rest for the night.

Luke 2:6-7 And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

Just like in Bethlehem 2000 years ago, even today the world doesn't have any room for Jesus. Yes, we have time for a holiday, to think about a little baby and what happened that long ago night - but all too often we don't think about the reason Jesus came to Earth as a baby: in order to one day die for our sins, He needed to become one of us. This baby was born, so He could grow up and one day be crucified. The world doesn't like to think about that part. The world is guilty before God, and in need of a Saviour, but the world would rather just think about the cute little baby.

Thirty three years later, Jesus did die on that cross for the sins of the world; He was buried; and He did arise physically from the grave after three days and nights. He is the Saviour that the Bible prophesied about and clearly proclaims that He is - rising from the dead is proof positive of who He is and the fact that He did pay the complete penalty that we deserved for our sins.

Yet, the world still has no room for Jesus. How about you? Is there any room in your heart and home for the Saviour this Christmas season (and all year round)?

We often think of Christmas gifts that we give to our loved ones. God gave the greatest gift we will ever need. You can turn to Him today and receive His free gift of salvation. It is a gift that cannot be earned, it must be received by faith. That means believing and trusting what God has already said in His Word - that Jesus will save all those who turn from their sins and turn to the Saviour. He offers you the gift of forgiveness, eternal life, a home eternally in Heaven with Him.

But just like any other gift, it must be received to be yours.

Will you receive Jesus Christ as your Saviour? Do you have any room for Him?

Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.

Romans 6:23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

John 1:12 But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name:

Revelation 3:20 Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.

Ephesians 3:17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love,

Have You Any Room For Jesus?
(Words adapted by Daniel W. Whittle)

Have you any room for Jesus,
He who bore your load of sin?
As He knocks and asks admission,
Sinners, will you let Him in?

Chorus:
Room for Jesus, King of Glory!
Hasten now His Word obey;
Swing the heart's door widely open,
Bid Him enter while you may.

Room for pleasure, room for business,
But for Christ the Crucified,
Not a place that He can enter,
In the heart for which He died?

Have you any room for Jesus,
As in grace He calls again?
O today is time accepted,
Tomorrow you may call in vain.

Room and time now give to Jesus,
Soon will pass God's day of grace;
Soon thy heart left cold and silent,
And thy Savior's pleading cease.

Written December 16th, 2004
Jerry Bouey

We Three Kings Of Orient Are (Hymn)

We Three Kings Of Orient Are
(Author: John H. Hopkins)

We three kings of Orient are;
Bearing gifts we traverse afar,
Field and fountain, moor and mountain,
Following yonder star.

Refrain:
O star of wonder, star of light,
Star with royal beauty bright,
Westward leading, still proceeding,
Guide us to thy perfect light.

Born a King on Bethlehem's plain,
Gold I bring to crown him again,
King forever, ceasing never,
Over us all to reign.

Frankincense to offer have I;
Incense owns a Deity nigh;
Prayer and praising, voices raising,
Worshiping God on high.

Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume
Breathes a life of gathering gloom;
Borrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying,
Sealed in the stone-cold tomb.

Glorious now behold him arise;
King and God and sacrifice:
Alleluia, Alleluia,
Sounds through the earth and skies.

The Greatest Story Ever Told (Poem)

The Greatest Story Ever Told

Awestruck and wonder-filled, we slowly gaze around;
Feel the light patter of the snow gently falling down.
Cheerful children laughing and playing without a care,
While smells of Christmas waft upon the wintery air.
Songs of the season sound serenely throughout the night,
All of these sensations touch our souls with joy and delight.

Feel the warmth of the crackling fire as you come in from the cold;
Sense the wonder and the thrill of The Greatest Story Ever Told.
Sit back and listen while your hearts fill with utter joy;
Hear the Gospel writers tell of the birth of a little Boy.
Not just any boy, mind you - listen, and let your imagination unfurl;
In Bethlehem was born the Son destined to change the world.

Picture the scene in your mind of God coming down to earth -
Not in majesty or splendour, but by a lowly birth;
Surrounded by rustling animals in a manger filled with hay;
No room for them in the inn, from its shelter they were turned away.
Feel the nip in the air, and hear the silence broken by a cry -
The cry of the Baby born, the Baby born to die.

"For unto you is born this day…
…a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."

He came to fulfill the prophecies all the prophets had foretold;
From the foundation of the world, His suffering was planned of old;
From the first couple in the garden to the last soul ever born,
The Messiah would bear their sins and sorrows, with cruelty and scorn.
On the wooden cross He shed His blood, by Him the wrath of God was borne;
Till another cry broke through the silence, and the temple veil was torn.

“…and thou shalt call his name JESUS:
for he shall save his people from their sins.”

“It is finished,” cried out Jesus, and died that very hour -
But three days later, the Son of God arose again in power.
“It is finished” - the tomb is empty, go to the brethren and tell:
“He is not here: for He is risen” - He shook the very gates of Hell.
Jesus Christ died for all our sins - that is the Gospel story;
Go tell it boldly to the world - the Saviour arose again in glory.

“It is finished!”

December 3rd, 2025
Jerry Bouey

Matthew 1:18-25 Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise: When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph, thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife: And knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son: and he called his name JESUS.

Arise, And Come Away (Poem)

Arise, And Come Away

Arise, and come away, My love,
Arise, and come away;
Come, spend some time with Me, My child;
Seek My face today.

I long to fellowship with you, My love,
Until the breaking of the day;
Amidst the toiling and the trying times,
Arise, and come away.

I offer rest and renewal for your soul,
I will take your burdens away.
Find solace and shelter in My presence,
Arise, and come away.

Under the shadow of My wings,
You will find a peace like you’ve never known;
Like a sparrow finds a nest in My temple,
I am your eternal home.

I am all you will ever need, My child.
Abba, Father, is My name.
Come spend some time with Me, My love,
Arise, and come away.

March 22nd, 2025
Jerry Bouey

(For Mother's Day, 2025)

Matthew 11:29-30 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

Song of Songs 2:10-13 My beloved spake, and said unto me, Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away. For, lo, the winter is past, the rain is over and gone; The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land; The fig tree putteth forth her green figs, and the vines with the tender grape give a good smell. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away.

Genesis 32:24 And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.

Jeremiah 6:16a Thus saith the LORD, Stand ye in the ways, and see, and ask for the old paths, where is the good way, and walk therein, and ye shall find rest for your souls.

Psalms 84:1-3 TO THE CHIEF MUSICIAN UPON GITTITH, A PSALM FOR THE SONS OF KORAH. How amiable are thy tabernacles, O LORD of hosts! My soul longeth, yea, even fainteth for the courts of the LORD: my heart and my flesh crieth out for the living God. Yea, the sparrow hath found an house, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, even thine altars, O LORD of hosts, my King, and my God.

Luke 12:6-7 Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.

Romans 8:15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

There's A Blessing (Poem)

 

There's A Blessing

Don't miss out on church -
There's a blessing from above;
When we fellowship together,
And our hearts are knit in love.
We're one family united,
Joint-heirs by His blood.

Don't miss out on church -
There's a blessing in this place;
Hear the preaching of God's Word,
As we seek the Saviour's face.
With love, exhorting one another,
Bound together by His grace.

Don't miss out on church -
There's a blessing on the way;
Bring all your tithes and offerings,
And watch how Jesus does repay.
There's a blessing in the work,
When we go, and give, and pray.

Don't miss out on the blessing!

September 15th, 2002
Jerry Bouey

(Written for the Tenth Anniversary of People's Baptist Church, Kelowna, BC)

Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together,
as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another:
and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Hebrews 10:25

Then they that gladly received his word were baptized:
and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.
And they continued stedfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship,
and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Acts 2:41-42

Birthday Poem For A Christian (Poem)

 

Birthday Poem For A Christian

Another year older, a year of living in the light of the Lord,
A time of changing, a time of growing,
A time of learning to use His Sword.

Maturing more as the days go on,
Telling others what Christ has taught you,
Touching hearts as you travel along,
Living love - we can see Him in you.

A miracle is working there in your heart,
A new beginning, He changed you right from the start,
And now you know that there is no turning back,
The grace of God you will never lack.

You're a picture of what our great Redeemer can do,
When you walk in His love, you make an excellent view,
You are changing on the inside, it's really plain to see,
Like a stranger to this world - living for eternity,
Committed to our Saviour, you are resting in His hands,
He planned your future long ago, before your life began.

Oh, delight yourself forever in the living Lord,
Wait on His gracious love and receive His Word,
Taste and see how good our God is,
He is awe-inspiring and His name is Jesus!

He is your refuge when your times get tough,
His provision will always be enough,
Your steps are directed by the Father of lights,
Trust fully in Him, your future is bright.

Shine out, my friend, and show them the way,
Light up the darkness, hold the shadows at bay,
Free the captives, as Christ has freed you,
Tell others the wonders of what our God can do.

Praise God and live a life pleasing to Him,
Lift up your voice and let your heart sing,
Seek the Lord's guidance and live in His will,
Come before Jesus and learn to be still.

Though this life seems so hard and you may fail sometimes,
Get on Hind's feet - there are still mountains to climb,
When you reach the highest peak, there will be joy without end,
God will say, "Well done, My servant and friend."

May 4th, 1995
Jerry Bouey

(Originally written for my sister, Lori)

But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.
To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
2 Peter 3:18

The LORD God is my strength, and he will make my feet like hinds' feet,
and he will make me to walk upon mine high places.
Habakkuk 3:19

From Broken To Beautiful (Poem)

From Broken To Beautiful

From broken to beautiful;
Made with the Potter’s own hands,
Transformed into gold and silver -
Part of God’s wondrous plan.

Vessels of the Lord’s mercy,
Of His forgiveness and His grace;
From a past of brokenness
To true beauty in its place.

Once separated from God’s family,
Now adopted as a child of the King;
Precious treasure in earthen vessels -
To the Lord, worth more than anything.

Vessels of honour, fit for the Master,
Sanctified, forgiven, and set free;
From forsaken to accepted in His sight -
Beloved, and transformed for eternity.

From broken to beautiful,
Given a new purpose for His glory,
Renewed, and made righteous in Jesus Christ -
That is salvation’s story.

April 15th, 2024
Jerry Bouey

The Lord can take the broken pieces of our lives, the broken or cracked pottery, and remake it in such a way that it brings glory to Him. Like Mary broke the box of spikenard and the savour of it diffused throughout the room when she anointed the feet of Jesus, so may our lives bring glory to the Lord Jesus Christ and may His savour touch every area of our hearts and lives, affecting all that we come in contact with day by day.

John 12:3 Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.

Song of Solomon 1:3  Because of the savour of thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth, therefore do the virgins love thee.

Song of Songs 1:10-11 Thy cheeks are comely with rows of jewels, thy neck with chains of gold. We will make thee borders of gold with studs of silver.

Isaiah 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me; because the LORD hath anointed me to preach good tidings unto the meek; he hath sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; To proclaim the acceptable year of the LORD, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all that mourn; To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.

Hosea 2:23 And I will sow her unto me in the earth; and I will have mercy upon her that had not obtained mercy; and I will say to them which were not my people, Thou art my people; and they shall say, Thou art my God.

Ephesians 4:23-24 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

2 Timothy 2:20-21 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour. If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

Duct-Taped Smiles (Poem)

 

Duct-Taped Smiles
(A Mother’s Day Poem)

As a mother, you reminisce over the many winding roads you’ve travelled;
Filled with wonder and with joy, though at times your threads seem a little frayed and tangled;
But the Lord has paved your path with love over each and every weary mile -
The cracked pottery of your life is covered with bandaged elbows and duct-taped smiles.

Each day of motherhood is like a book, with the pages a little tattered, a little torn;
By gleaning God’s wisdom through the years, those rough edges have softened and become a little worn;
The cover is more faded now, and you see some new creases here and there,
But the joy of being a mother is a blessing - naught else could ever compare.

Along the journey of their childhood, the memories of each precious loved one flood your heart.
To see them grow, following in your footsteps - so many wondrous miracles, oh where to start?
Showing them the Saviour and how He brought you through all those fiery trials,
Brings a tear or two sometimes, but also lasting joy, and even more duct-taped smiles.

The Lord uses motherhood to teach us lessons we may not at first understand,
But through the hard days, and through the growing years, you catch glimpses of His perfect plan.
When you see your children all grown up, remembering each little hand you used to hold,
It is then you realize, this broken pottery has been transformed into a treasure of purest gold.

March 30th, 2024
Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to my friend, Deborah Cox, who helped me iron out the words of this poem. Thank you for being a blessing to me.)

Psalms 68:13 Though ye have lien among the pots, yet shall ye be as the wings of a dove covered with silver, and her feathers with yellow gold.

A Faithful Man (Poem)

 

A Faithful Man

A faithful man - Oh who can find?
But you are of that faithful kind!
It's been a great blessing, that's for sure,
Learning from you how to persevere.

Sharing the treasures you've found in God's Word,
Drawing us closer to Jesus our Lord.

A faithful witness, a beloved Pastor,
A trusted guide, and a good friend.
Exhorting us with Godly wisdom,
On which the Christ-filled life depends.

A true testimony to all
of God's amazing grace;
A blessed example to us
of how to run in this race.

For being our Pastor,
We, the sheep of your flock,
Wanted to say,
"We love you with all our hearts!
And thank you for being so faithful..."

Written Christmas 2001
by Jerry Bouey

(Dedicated to our Pastor, Claude Madle
People's Baptist Church, Kelowna, BC)

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
1 Corinthians 4:2

Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour,
especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.
1 Timothy 5:17

Remember them which have the rule over you,
who have spoken unto you the word of God:
whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.
Hebrews 13:7

Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves:
for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account,
that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Hebrews 13:17

The Gift Of Myrrh (Poem)

The Gift Of Myrrh

The wise men came to Bethlehem,
Came to worship the young Child;
They brought their gifts to offer Him -
Jesus, the Saviour, so meek and mild.

Each of the treasures the wise men gave
Told of great riches they had in store;
Though worth much to this poor family,
What they symbolized was so much more.

The wise men brought to Him their gold -
Oh what a precious offering.
A fitting tribute for this Child
Who was born the King of kings.

They also gave Him frankincense -
These wise men from the East;
For many Scriptures testified:
The Son of God would be our High Priest.

The greatest gift they gave to Jesus,
More important than all the rest,
Was the gift of myrrh they offered Him,
Signifying His coming death.

For not the blood of bulls and goats,
Nor our righteous works could ever wash away
The stain of sin of fallen man -
Forgiveness couldn’t come that way.

The King of kings came from on high,
The Priest who would be our Sacrifice;
The Son of Man which came to die,
Only He could bear that costly price.

Jesus is that spotless Lamb of God
Who fulfilled all of the Laws demands;
Only He could pay redemption’s price,
And bring salvation down to man.

December 17, 2023
Jerry Bouey

Though there are various aspects to the “Christmas story”, and this poem is based on the meaning behind the gifts of the wise men (their story is told in Matthew 2:1-13), here is the message about the coming Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, as told to the shepherds on the night He was born as a Baby in a manger. Sometime around the age of two years old, the wise men came to the Child in the house where He as living in Bethlehem. As the account of His life unfolded, He lived and grew up in Nazareth until He became a Man. He was thirty years old when He began His public ministry. But to be our Saviour, the Son of God not only had to be one of us and grow up among us, Jesus Christ had to shed His blood and die upon the cross one day for our sins. He did that, fulfilling by Himself all that was needed to save us, and then He arose again three days later and ascended up to Heaven, where He is now the believer's High Priest, petitioning the Father on our behalf until the day He takes true believers home to Heaven to be with Him forever. That is the story of Christmas, and the story of the Bible!

Luke 2:8-14 And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

Ready For Christmas (Poem)

Ready For Christmas?

"Ready for Christmas," she said with a sigh,
As she gave a last touch to the gifts piled high,
Then wearily sat for a moment and read,
Till soon, very soon, she was nodding her head.

Then quietly spoke a voice in her dream,
"Ready for Christmas? What do you mean?
Ready for Christmas when only last week
You wouldn't acknowledge your friend on the street.

"Ready for Christmas, while holding a grudge?
Perhaps you had better let God be the judge,
Why, how can the Christ-child come and abide
In the heart that is selfish and filled with pride?

"Ready for Christmas when only today
A beggar lad came and you turned him away
Without even a smile to show that you cared?
The little he asked - it could have been spared.

"Ready for Christmas? You've worked, it is true,
But just doing the things that you wanted to do.
Ready for Christmas? Your circle's too small -
Why, you are not ready for Christmas at all!"

She awoke with a start and a cry of despair,
"There's so little time and I've still to prepare.
O Father, forgive me, I see what You mean,
To be ready means more than a house swept clean."

Yes, more than the giving of gifts and a tree,
It's the heart swept clean that He wants to see;
A heart that is free from bitterness, sin -
Ready for Christmas - and ready for HIM.

A revised version of the poem by:
Alice Hansche Mortenson

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink: I was a stranger, and ye took me in: Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.

Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee? or thirsty, and gave thee drink? When saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? or naked, and clothed thee? Or when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee?

And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.

Matthew 25:34-40

Christmas In Heaven (Poem)

Christmas In Heaven

I see the countless Christmas trees around the world below,
with tiny lights like heaven's stars reflecting on the snow.

The sight is so spectacular, please wipe away that tear,
for I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I hear the many Christmas songs that people hold so dear,
but the sounds of music can't compare with the Christmas choir up here.

I have no words to tell you the joy their voices bring,
for it is beyond description to hear the angels sing.

I know how much you miss me, I see the pain inside your heart,
for I am spending Christmas with Jesus Christ this year.

I can't tell you of the splendor or the peace here in this place.
Can you just imagine Christmas with our Savior face to face?

I'll ask Him to lift your spirit as I tell Him of your love,
so then pray for one another as you lift your eyes above.

Please let your hearts be joyful and let your spirit sing,
for I am spending Christmas in heaven and I'm walking with the King.

Copyright 1999
by Wanda Bencke
benckefamily@hotmail.com

A note from the author: Lysandra Kay Bencke was my thirteen year old handicapped daughter.  On Christmas day 1997, Lysandra had a seizure and was in a coma for five days before she passed away. During those five days I wrote "Christmas in Heaven."

2 Corinthians 5:1-8  For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens. For in this we groan, earnestly desiring to be clothed upon with our house which is from heaven: If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked. For we that are in this tabernacle do groan, being burdened: not for that we would be unclothed, but clothed upon, that mortality might be swallowed up of life. Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord: (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.

Two Lives United (Song)

 Two Lives United

(To Phillip and Nicole Donnelly, who were married on the sixth of May, 1995.)

Two lives united, one heart beating in time

One fire ignited, two voices making one rhyme

A new song is started, the rhythm is beginning to flow

A love enduring, it's more real than you can know.

The melody is changing, a different chorus starting today

New notes are added, transforming you day by day

A fire is burning, setting two hearts ablaze

Two lives united, serving our Lord with praise.

Christ is in your hearts, He is there for you

When times get tough, our Lord will pull you through

Committed together, one love shining through

A band of three cords, between our God and you.

We long to se what our Lord will do

In two lives united, devoted and so true

We long to hear the poetry

Written in your hearts, and now it's plain to see.

One flame burning, growing stronger

One love yearning, soaring yonder

The rhythm is there and love is starting to grow

It's overflowing - now the whole world will know.

That your two lives are united

One heart is beating in time

One fire is ignited

Two voices are making one rhyme.

Two lives united, one heart beating in time

One fire ignited, two voices making one rhyme.

(Repeat... and fade.)

May 6th, 1995

Jerry (Gerald) Bouey

What therefore God hath joined together,

let not man put asunder.

Matthew 19:6

...a threefold cord is not quickly broken.

Ecclesiastes 4:12b

O Holy Night (Hymn)

This is probably my most favourite Christmas hymn - at least the first stanza. I first remember hearing it as a young teenager (or possibly pre-teens) when an actor sang it on a popular TV show (Robert Guillaume sang it in a Christmas episode of Benson - at least I was told it was actually the actor singing it and not just putting on a performance). I in no way endorse that show, and honestly don't remember much of it anyway - but that song stuck with me. (Click here to hear it on Youtube.) It was so emotional; perhaps part of the impact was the fact that here was a black man singing about the slave being our brother (ie. our fellow man - according to the Bible, all of mankind is of one blood and we are all related physically through Adam and Eve; though, we are only brothers and sisters spiritually through personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ). After I trusted Christ for salvation, I later came across the lyrics of this song and memorized the first stanza, now knowing the meaning of the hope and purpose that salvation in Christ gives to the weary soul. It still touches me today. I think some versions have "the weary world rejoices," but this version from Nethymnal (which should be true to the original) has "the weary soul rejoices." That makes more sense. The whole world is not rejoicing in the Saviour, but the soul that has the burdens of sin and oppression lifted will rejoice in the Lord Jesus Christ.

It is a hymn of hope - which is what the Lord seems to be emphasizing to me in all the messages I have been preparing and preaching for Christmas.

O Holy Night
(Lyrics: Placide Cappeau)

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining;
It is the night of the dear Savior’s birth!
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
Till He appeared and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope, the weary soul rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
Fall on your knees, O hear the angel voices!
O night divine, O night when Christ was born!
O night, O holy night, O night divine!

Led by the light of faith serenely beaming,
With glowing hearts by His cradle we stand.
So led by light of a star sweetly gleaming,
Here came the wise men from Orient land.
The King of kings lay thus in lowly manger,
In all our trials born to be our Friend!
He knows our need — to our weakness is no stranger.
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend!
Behold your King; before Him lowly bend!

Truly He taught us to love one another;
His law is love and His Gospel is peace.
Chains shall He break for the slave is our brother
And in His Name all oppression shall cease.
Sweet hymns of joy in grateful chorus raise we,
Let all within us praise His holy Name!
Christ is the Lord! O praise His name forever!
His pow’r and glory evermore proclaim!
His pow’r and glory evermore proclaim!

Ephesians 2:12-13 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

Christmas Without Christ (Poem)

Note: I am not for nativity scenes, as I am against pictures/images of Jesus Christ. I wrote this poem as a fairly young Christian - but the point still applies today: If we let the world remove all traces of the reason for the season (ie. the Lord Jesus Christ and the message of His free gift of salvation - whether in sermons or songs) at "Christmas" (when we are professing to worship the Lord and celebrate His birth - which was essential in His coming and dying for our sins on the cross), then what do we have left?

Christmas Without Christ

If we take Christ out of Christmas
What's there left to do?
We have all the tinsel and the presents -
But we don't have You-know-who.

If we ban all the Christmas songs
That, to some, may slightly offend,
Then we'd have to remove the Nativity scene...
Tell me - where would it end?

If we couldn't worship Christ this Christmas,
What's there left to celebrate?
All we have left is Santa Claus.
We've sold out - is it too late?

If we couldn't have the Prince of Peace,
Then our peace would vanish soon.
All our fondest dreams would lie in ashes
While we all sing empty tunes.

If we had nothing left to offer
But a jolly fat man in red,
Then Christmas couldn't be called Christmas,
And our hope would soon be dead.

If we take Christ out of Christmas,
Then what would there be?
A world in need of a Saviour
But they've left Him no place to be.

December 13th, 1994
Jerry Bouey

Neither is there salvation in any other:
for there is none other name under heaven given among men,
whereby we must be saved.
Acts 4:12

Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him,
and given Him a name which is above every name:
That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
of things in heaven, and things in earth,
and things under the earth;
And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord,
to the glory of God the Father.
Philippians 2:9-11

What Child Is This? (Hymn)

What Child Is This?

(William C. Dix)

What Child is this, who, laid to rest,
On Mary's lap is sleeping?
Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,
While shepherds watch are keeping?

(Chorus)
This, this is Christ the King,
Whom shepherds guard and angels sing:
Haste, haste to bring Him laud -
The Babe, the Son of Mary.

Why lies He in such mean estate
Where ox and ass are feeding?
Good Christian, fear - for sinners here
The silent Word is pleading.

So bring Him incense, gold and myrrh -
Come, rich and poor, to own Him;
The King of kings salvation brings -
Let loving hearts enthrone Him.

God's Gift (Poem)

God's Gift

Come now all you troubled people,
I've got a message for you to hear:
God is giving out His grace this Christmas -
Free for all who dare to draw near.

In a world filled with gloomy night,
Here's a Gift that is full of Light.

A Gift of forgiveness, mercy too,
A Gift of hope from Christ to you.

A reason for living wrapped up in Love,
An Ever-Present Saviour who came from above.

The Gift is truly priceless,
And inside, you will be made new,
But you must accept His Gift
For it to belong to you.

If you stop to think about the miracle
of the birth of Christ this year,
Remember His precious Gift of Life -
He offers peace to all who will draw near.

December 14th, 1994
Jerry Bouey

God so loved...
that He gave...
John 3:16

For the wages of sin is death;
but the gift of God is eternal life
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Romans 6:23

But as many as received Him,
to them gave He power to become the sons of God,
even to them that believe on His name:
John 1:12

O Save Us Now (Song)

O Save Us Now

Before God made the world, redemption was planned;

In the fullness of time, God became a man.

From Heaven, God's Son came; was in a manger laid;

The Christ had arrived - soon our sin debt would be paid.

Simeon in the Temple, and Anna nearby,

The shepherds in the field, knew the Saviour was nigh.

The wise men saw the star as it shone from the sky;

They followed it far to the King from on High.

To a world darkened by sin

The light of hope is shining in,

The Promised Son has appeared,

The Saviour is now here -

O save us now!

Years have passed by; this child has grown into a man;

Now it was time to fulfill God's wondrous plan.

On the cross, for our sins, His precious blood was shed,

Three days later, our Saviour arose from the dead.

To those searching for truth, the time has come at last;

Salvation has been purchased; sin's darkness has passed.

The morning has dawned, the night is now gone;

To souls filled with sin, the Redeemer has come.

The Messiah was foretold,

His origins are from old,

We've been waiting for so long,

But Jesus has now come -

O save us now!

The Promised Son has drawn nigh.

This Saviour was born to die.

"It is finished," was His shout -

His blood can blot your sin debt out.

He will save you now!

December 13th, 2003

Jerry Bouey

Hosanna means "O save us now."

And the multitudes that went before,

and that followed, cried, saying,

Hosanna [save us now] to the Son of David:

Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord;

Hosanna in the highest.

Matthew 21:9

Save now, I beseech Thee, O LORD:

O LORD, I beseech Thee, send now prosperity.
 Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD:
we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD.

Psalms 118:25-26

Isaiah 9:1-2 Nevertheless the dimness shall not be such as was in her vexation, when at the first he lightly afflicted the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali, and afterward did more grievously afflict her by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, in Galilee of the nations. The people that walked in darkness have seen a great light: they that dwell in the land of the shadow of death, upon them hath the light shined.

Isaiah 9:6-7 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counseller, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.

‘Twas The Night Before Jesus Came (Poem)

While the theology of this poem is off somewhat on the events of the Lord's second coming/return, it makes an excellent point: Are you ready for the Lord's return?

‘Twas The Night Before Jesus Came

‘Twas the night before Jesus came and all through the house
Not a creature was praying, not one in the house
Their Bibles were lain on the shelf without care
In hopes that Jesus would not come there. 

The children were dressing to crawl into bed.
Not once ever kneeling or bowing a head.
And Mom in her rocker with baby on her lap
Was watching the Late Show while I took a nap.

When out of the East there arose such a clatter.
I sprang to my feet to see what was the matter.
Away to the window I flew like a flash,
Tore open the shutters and threw up the sash!

When what to my wondering eyes should appear
But angels proclaiming that Jesus was here.
With a light like the sun sending forth a bright ray
I knew in a moment this must be THE DAY! 

The light of His face made me cover my head
It was Jesus! returning just like He had said.
And though I possessed worldly wisdom and wealth,
I cried when I saw Him in spite of myself. 

In the Book of Life which He held in His hand
Was written the name of every saved man.
He spoke not a word as He searched for my name;
When He said “it’s not here” my head hung in shame. 

The people whose names had been written with love
He gathered to take to His Father above.
With those who were ready He rose without a sound.
While all the rest were left standing around. 

I fell to my knees, but it was too late;
I had waited too long and thus sealed my fate.
I stood and I cried as they rose out of sight;
Oh, if only I had been ready tonight. 

In the words of this poem the meaning is clear;
The coming of Jesus is drawing near.
There’s only one life and when comes the last call
We’ll find that the Bible was true after all!

Author Unknown