A Gift of His Most Excellent Nature

This poem came on the morning of December 30; as a result of pondering 1st John 2:1-14 and listening to a John Piper message on the previous evening. I awoke with the beginning verse in mind and as I continued to meditate with John, the writer of this epistle, the rest followed:

With tongue and with song we're called to employ,
The glorious beauty of our new nature's joy.
The old man is dead, the new man now reigns
And we offer our praise to the Great KING of kings.

Though deaf others be, and our song they not hear—
Oh, let us draw near Him in meekness and fear.
His commandments we'll keep and abide in His Light,
And though others not see Him, we're known in His sight;

In Jesus, our Advocate at our Father's throne,
Who ever intercedes 'til the day we're called home.
With our sins now forgiven, and with grace from above,
Made victors o're the evil one, as we abide in His Love.

His Word is the means by which we have heard.
His Spirit our guide into all that occurred,
In Christ, we're made children to our Father's delight,
Who strengthens our hands to continue to fight.

Oh, what a Gift of His most excellent Nature,
To love not the world, and be clothed in His vesture.
Our garments of praise, Oh, help us keep clean,
‘Til with You in glory, You're fullness is seen.

Michael E. Wood
December 30, 2009

No Longer Standing in the Middle

Michael E. Wood – December 23, 2009

(Chorus 1)
Will you stand in the middle
Or call on His Name?
Will you stand in His Glory
Or stand in your shame?
Do you live for the purpose
That all may proclaim
The matchless Glory of Jesus
Who still is the same.

When Korah stood in the middle
While wearing His name
The Lord God of Heaven
Through Moses proclaimed
A new work would take place
The earth opened wide
Consumed all of Korah’s
Rebellion and pride

Chorus 1

When neither voice or an answer
Was spoken from Baal
Elijah called on the Lord God
Whose fire then there fell
The people knew that the Lord God
Was Lord God alone
And they fell on their faces
As His glory was shown

Chorus 1

For years I walked in indecision
Based in my thoughts
I thought that I knew Him
And yet I was lost
My hope rest in the good works
I thought I had done
But when it came to give Him glory
I found I had none.

Now I know, there's no middle,
Except in the mind.
You can think you are righteous,
And yet be so blind.
Apart from Christ you'll remain there,
Deceived you will be.
Unless the grace of the LORD GOD,
Doth shine down in thee.

(Optional verse)
Now I know, there's no middle,
Except in the mind.
You can think you are righteous,
And yet be so blind.
Apart from grace you'll remain there,
Deceived you will be.
You must repent, and believe that,
Christ's death made you free.

In peace and glory in Jesus
The Rock I now stand
By grace, He pulled me from the pit of
The deep sinking sand
From all the lies I was buying
When I thought I was saved
He raised me up to now walk on
The great Kings Highway

(Chorus 2)
No longer standing in the middle
Because of His Cross
His blood’s interceding
To count all things loss
In sweet assurance
He guides us to know who He is
By grace we stand in the truth
Of the Word He has giv’n

Chorus 1

(Closing)
The matchless glory of Jesus
Who still is the same
Do you bow at His feet
And His mercy proclaim
Do you live for the purpose
That all may proclaim
The matchless glory of Jesus
Who still is the same?

"FOR MY BELOVED DIANNA - SCRAMBLED EGGS AT 4:00 A.M."

Upon awaking around 3:30 a.m—knowing that I had the day off—I fixed myself some scrambled eggs and read a message by Martyn Lloyd-Jones sent to me by my beloved Dianna, entitled, "A Superabundance of Blessing". I began to write out a few words and then went back to bed. When I awoke, around 8:00a.m., the words to this poem continued to come to mind and thus I wrote:

Scrambled eggs at 4:00a.m.,
Lloyd-Jones and me,
We reveled in the glories of
The Christ who set us free.

Thank you my dove for all the love
Showed forth from thee this hour.
His visitation to my heart,
His Spirit came with power.

As confirmations of His love
Rejoiced my heart to see,
The greater fullness of His Gift
He gave to you and me.

Drink deep, He says, unto our souls,
There is no limit here.
Rejoice in our Eternal God,
His absolutes are dear.

Of all we share, not ought compares
To His o'er flowing Spring.
He is our Life! He is our Joy!
He is our Everything!

Oh, Jesus, Lover of our souls,
You cause our hearts to sing.
We thank You for the glories of
The Life that You now bring.

Until we see You face to face,
We ask You for Your power,
To glorify Your Precious Name
With each new passing hour!

Michael E. Wood
December 28, 2009

Who Loved Us More!

Oh Father, God; we ask You now,
Help us to look to Your Word and plow
Into the depths of Your Love's Strong Cord
In Christ alone, and mercy stored;

For those You’ve called unto Yourself,
Released from sin and brought to health,
And for Your glory, You've made us free,
To live a life of purity.

O, Spirit come; help us partake,
Of grace anew, and sin forsake
With sharp rebukes, if need might call,
If we but at Your feet might fall.

Rejoicing in Your righteousness,
Partakers of Your holiness.
Our eyes affixed on Heaven's shore,
In Christ alone, WHO LOVED US MORE!

Michael E. Wood
December 26, 2009

Merry Christmas To All

Do You Know this Christmas Child?

God incarnate has come to earth,
To save mankind from wrath and dearth.
Oh, do you know this Christmas Child;
Born of the virgin, so meek and mild?

Of all the gifts come down to man,
None other could breach the broken span—
Made by our sin in which we're born;
Nailed to the cross all stripped and torn.

For love He came, for love He died—
To save us from our sin and pride.
The Son of God, Yeah, Son of man;
Fulfilled the law, fulfilled God's plan.

And all of life is but a waste,
Apart from Christ's redeeming grace.
Most wondrous gift sent from above;
Come down to man, Redeeming love!

Oh, that you may truly know the personal
intimacy of His love toward you this Christmas.

Michael E. Wood
December 19, 2009

No Room in the Inn

Having been “religious” yet lost and a hypocrite of the most degrading and rank order; this song is a declaration of the love of God to my soul and to all who call upon Him in truth and especially as we are mindful of that which took place in Bethlehem.

No room in the Inn and no room in your heart;
The darkness you see is all on your part.
This Jesus you see is a stranger to you—
Only Christ, for His Glory, can make all things new.

CHORUS
Oh, wonder of wonders, we're made to behold,
With joy that's unspeakable, glory untold.
You transcend our minds, and You cause us to see,
Partakers of holiness, grace us to be,
Transported to the fullness of Your sovereign love,
Now captives of Jesus, Who reigns from above.

No wrappings, or tinsel, or lights all aglow;
Nor presents, or gifts, or friends you may know
Can give you the joy that God only gives
To those, in submission, repent from their sins.

(Chorus)

Your vileness and pride, it will keep you from this
And apart from free grace you will never know bliss
You say, I’m not loving, you say I’m not kind
Yet apart from His mercy, I too would be blind

(Chorus)

In darkness I wandered apart from His grace;
Until He, in love, revealed me His face.
Not ought could I give Him, Not ought could I bring,
And yet through His Cross His glory I sing.

Oh, wonder of wonders, we're made to behold,
With joy that's unspeakable, glory untold.
You transcend our minds, and You cause us to see,
Partakers of holiness, grace us to be,
Transported to the fullness of Your sovereign love,
Now captives of Jesus, Who reigns from above.

Michael E. Wood
December 8, 2009

Building up By Breaking Down (New Version)

“He delivereth the poor in his affliction , and openeth their ears in oppression” Job 36:15

How oft we seek to glory in
The things that we would do,
When God, in mercy, doth afflict
To give a heart that's true

In moments when we fail to see
In things He sends our way
The face of Him Who lovingly sends
Fire to save the day.

CHORUS
He buildeth up by breaking down,
Both pride and sin within.
Our faith refined to make Him known,
It's Christ we are to win.
And worship Him in holiness;
Give glory to His Name--
His voice will speak majestically,
In Christ we are to win .
(Ps. 29:1,2,4)

Sore troubled minds, Oh look to Him
Whose faithfulness is sure
And glory in the cross you bare,
His gift to make you pure.

Rejoice with Him Oh, righteous one,
Declared before the throne,
By blood and Spirit come to Him,
Who took you for His own.

(Chorus)

In grateful praise and thankfulness
Exalt His Name on high,
Restore to Him His rightful place,
In humbleness draw nigh.

Within, without, His chastening hand
Doth bring us to our knees,
And give to us the grace we need,
That pleasing we shall be.

(Chorus)

How beautiful His precious smile,
To us He doth bestow;
To fix our hope in Him alone,
As homeward we will go

That we may apprehend from Him,
Who apprehended us;
The Prize of Jesus Christ Himself,
All else we count but dust.

Conform us to Thy image,
For Thy own Name sake alone;
That all may come to know that you
Are God, and God alone.

He buildeth up by breaking down,
Both pride and sin within.
Our faith refined to make Him known,
It's Christ we are to win.
And worship Him in holiness;
Give glory to His Name--
His voice will speak majestically,
In Christ we are to win .

(1st Pet. 1:3-9; Phil. 3:7-14)

Michael E. Wood
(6-10-09 8:43a.m. & 11-2009 - new verse added)

The Great Exchange

Note: This started out as a poem and has now become a song. The last three versus where added and it is sung to the same tune as "Building up by Breaking Down".

The day of Your eternal praise
Now fixed upon my eyes;
My flesh now trembles in Your sight
Until I seize the prize.

You need not anything from me
That I might think to offer.
No merit of my own have I
From which that You might proffer.

No words can tell the privilege
Of which I now receive,
Through mercy and the blood of Christ—
Forgiveness to believe.

O’ matchless wonder of my heart,
Concealed before Thy Throne;
The great exchange of all my sins,
By Christ, and Christ alone.

O’ help me to proclaim Your grace;
Your spirit now empowers—
Your Word to sow within all hearts
Until You bring the showers.

Your bud bring forth and cause to bloom;
Your fruit to bless Your name—
The joyful sound of thankful hearts
Forever will proclaim.

All glory, laud and praise to You—
In matchless, splendor, wonder;
O’ for Thyself, we ask of You,
As sons beyond the thunder.

Conform us to Thy Image
For Thy Own Name sake alone.
That all may come to know that You
Are God, and God alone!

You build us up by breaking down
Both pride and sin within.
Our faith refined to make You known
It's Christ we are to win.

And worship You in holiness,
Give glory to Your Name.
Your voice will speak majestically,
In Christ we are to win!

Michael E. Wood
November 20, 2009

FOR HIS GLORY LIVE!

(Ps.79:9 "Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of Thy Name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for Thy Name's sake".)

In all the seasons of our life,
Our Vict'ry is secure.
In Him Who took us from the womb
To make us holy, pure.

The power of His Word infused;
The righteousness of Christ,
His blood and Spirit intercedes,
And brings an end to strife.

He is our Peace, and gives us peace
To bow before His throne—
The remnants of our fainting flesh
Now melt through Him alone.

His fervent Spirit we now have,
Because He chose to give;
To magnify His Precious Name
And for His glory Live.

Michael E. Wood
Morning of 11-16-09

Glimmers and Sparks - Let Heaven and Nature Sing

(Psalm78:1-7)

Morning of November 16, 2009

Let heaven and nature sing,
The glories of our God,
Who in His matchless wonders
Displays His mighty Rod!

His Word made flesh, gives life to all,
The chosen of all time,
And gives to us through life and death
The reason for our rhyme.

Our praise so small, and yet delights
The Face of Whom we serve,
So with me now lift up your voice,
His mercy doth preserve;

His sheep amidst the mockery
For all the world to see,
The glories of redeeming grace
He bought at Calvary!"

Michael E. Wood

Now Captives of Jesus, Who Reigns From Above

After spending several weeks reading, "Spiritual Affections" by Jonathan Edwards with Dianna, and interspersed with the writings of other men; after hearing the passionate exhortations of John Piper, Paul Washer, Conrad Mbewe, and Michael Karns; along with the persistent, consistent exposition of the scriptures of Gregory N. Barkman; and then, culminating with the reading of the last chapter of John Flavel's, "God Willing", and our daily passages from the MacArthur Daily Bible,with my beloved Dianna, and she asking the question, "What were those books that Paul asked for (2nd Tim 4:13)"; I went to sleep and awoke with these thoughts which began to stream forth at 5:32 a.m. 11/02/09 and by 1:09 p.m., this poem and this song came about as the result.

It is our desire that God would use these offerings of praise to move men and women to avail themselves of these gifts of His grace FOR HIS GLORY, (the members of our body that has gone before us, AS THEY BEING DEAD YET SPEAKETH and have left us the heritage of the things of which they left in writing), just AS HE HAS, and we know HE WILL!

This is the Poem

Words of expression and chords of strong love,
That knit us together with those gone above.
Oh, what a vision our eyes do behold,
Reflections of mercy--Yea, treasures of gold.

O' Wondrous condescension, that God would use men,
That once were so haughty, in pride and in sin.
Works of our LORD, coruscations delight,
Given by grace, through faith in His sight.

Arrows of silver which strike to our hearts,
To make us like Jesus, in our hidden parts.
Shafts that were polished, made straight and made true,
Directed by Sovereignty, our wills to subdue.

Gifts of His glory with which we're made sure,
And quickens devotion with souls that are pure.
The voice as of one, who fled and escaped,
Declares now in Zion, our minds to reshape.

Rise up, O' remnant, and partake of His joy,
This honey from Jesus, our songs to employ,
And praise Him amidst your present estate,
And give Him the glory, all else now forsake.

What were those books that Paul did ask for,
To bring with the parchments, was Timothy's chore.
Were they that he wrote or books he was given,
By men like himself, who now are in heaven?

These secrets, we know not, and yet we know this,
That God uses men to inculcate with bliss.
The mind of our Saviour, is what we should know,
And trust in His Word, and His Spirit to grow.

Thank You Oh Father, for Flavel and Baxter,
Winslow and Bonar, and Boston and Luther,
Calvin, and Owen, and Augustine too,
Whitfield, Bunyan, Spurgeon, all now with You.

For Jones and for Edwards and all I've left out,
Who surely will rise when You call with a shout!
And all will be glory when we see Your face,
All hidden in Jesus, the new Adam's race.

A multitude so numerous You use to effect,
The grace of our Saviour, in us to perfect.
And Jesus we'll be like because of the cross,
And through sovereign mercy we'll count all else loss.

O' Father of mercies, our time is so short,
O' help us to use it, and to men exhort,
To look to the great men, made faithful in You,
And strengthen to give You the praise that is due.

Oh, wonder of wonders, we're made to behold,
With joy that's unspeakable, and glory untold.
You transcend our minds, and You cause us to see,
Partakers of holiness, and grace us to be,

Transformed to the fullness of Your sovereign Love,
Now, captives of Jesus, Who reigns from above.
Oh, one day He's coming, on this you can count.
All faith will be sight, when we're taken out.


Footnotes:
· Jones refers to D. Martin Lloyd-Jones;
· cor·us·cate: Latin coruscatus, past participle of coruscare to flash Date: 1705 1 : to give off or reflect light in bright beams or flashes : sparkle 2 : to be brilliant
· in·cul·cate Latin inculcatus, past participle of inculcare, literally, to tread on, from in- + calcare to trample, from calc-, calx heel Date: 1539 : to teach and impress by frequent repetitions or admonitions.
************

Personal Note: In the song, all of those who are named specifically in the poem are left out for two purposes: 1) To make the song more conducive for public praise because of its length; and, 2) Most importantly, there are so many more that are not named specifically, who undoubtedly are noteworthy and praise worthy for the work of grace that was wrought in their hearts unto the glory of God, which have had, or shall have either a direct or indirect bearing upon that which has been wrought in our hearts as well, of which the writers of the scriptures themselves are not even mentioned in the poem. I have considered a title of which I think would be fitting.

Now Captives of Jesus, Who Reigns From Above

Words of expression, and chords of strong love,
That knit us together with those gone above.
Oh, what a vision, our eyes do behold,
Reflections of mercy--yea, treasures of gold.
O' wondrous condescension, that God would use men,
That once were so haughty, in pride and in sin.
Works of our Lord, coruscations delight,
Given by grace, through faith and His sight.

(Chorus)
Oh, wonder of wonders, we're made to behold,
With joy that's unspeakable, glory untold.
You transcend our minds, and You cause us to see,
Partakers of holiness, grace us to be,
Transported to the fullness of Your sovereign love,
Now captives of Jesus, Who reigns from above.

Arrows of silver which strike to our hearts,
To make us like Jesus, in our hidden parts.
Shafts that were polished, made straight, and made true,
Directed by sovereignty, wills to subdue.
Gifts of His glory with which we're made sure,
And quickens devotion with souls that are pure.
The voice as of one who has fled and escaped,
Declares now in Zion, our minds to reshape.

(Chorus)

A multitude so numerous You use to effect,
The grace of our Saviour, in us to perfect.
And Jesus we’ll be like because of the cross,
And through sovereign mercy we'll count all else loss.
Rise up, O' remnant, partake of His joy,
This honey from Jesus, our songs to employ,
And praise Him amidst your now present estate,
And give Him the glory, all else now forsake.

(Chorus)

Though secrets we know not, and yet we know this,
That God uses men to inculcate with bliss.
The mind of our Saviour, is what we should know,
And trust in His Word, and His Spirit to grow.
Oh Father of mercies our time is so short,
O' help us to use it, and to men exhort,
To look to the great men made faithful in You,
And strengthen to give You the praise that is due.

(Chorus)

Oh, wonder of wonders, we're made to behold,
With joy that's unspeakable, glory untold.
You transcend our minds, and You cause us to see,
Partakers of holiness, grace us to be,
Transported to the fullness of Your sovereign love,
Now captives of Jesus, Who reigns from above.


Note: You may notice that a few of the words were changed, and verses rearranged for the purpose of flow with the music, and because of the aforementioned proceedings. Praise be to our Father, that we are engraved on the palm of His hand, and our names are written in heaven unto His glory!!!!!

Glimmers and Sparks

glim·mer
n.
1. A dim or intermittent flicker or flash of light.
2. A faint manifestation or indication; a trace:

spark
n.
1. An incandescent particle, especially:
a. One thrown off from a burning substance.
b. One resulting from friction.
c. One remaining in an otherwise extinguished fire; an ember.
2. A glistening particle, as of metal.
3.
a. A flash of light, especially a flash produced by electric discharge.
b. A short pulse or flow of electric current.
4. A trace or suggestion, as:
a. A quality or feeling with latent potential; a seed or germ:

On occasion, Michael will write quick rhyming versus of praise and endearment, and it is my desire to capture them in one place. Therefore, there will be a new category on this blog called "Glimmers and Sparks".

Here was one he sent via email this morning:

Precious, precious words and thoughts
Continue to fill our minds;
We thank You Father for Your Sweet care,
As You give to us the lines;

Your Word becomes more precious still,
As You fill us with more grace,
And for Your glory we live to You,
As now we run our race.

Oh, help us Father, as we look to You
For Wisdom from on high,
And with Your Spirit fill us now
To please You through our cry.

Oh, do for us what we cannot—
Fulfill our Master's plan;
As we commit to You our all,
Entrusting to Your Hand.

Michael E. Wood
October 29, 2009

I Worship Him

By Michael E. Wood – October 22, 2009

I Worship Him
(Hebrews 2:12-4:10 through Revelation 14:7, 12, 13 10-22-09)

He thinks of me—through Calvary.
He thinks of me—that I be free.
He thinks of me, to enjoy Him;
And through my praise, I Worship Him.

He takes pleasure in forgiving me.
He takes pleasure in His mercy giv'n.
Because He does, I come to Him;
And through my prayers, I Worship Him.

The blood of Christ has purchased me;
His Word declares my victory.
His Spirit guides me to His throne,
And preach His Name, I Worship Him.

(Philippians 1:21- Isaiah 28:15 10:16 am 10-16-09)

To live is Christ -To die is gain;
To live is Christ - In Him we reign.
With boldness now, we anticipate
The coming of our Potentate.

The King of Kings - And Lord of Lords
Who is our hope and confidence.
In nothing we shall be ashamed—
We magnify His Holy Name.

And to Him all the glory be
Who is our joy and crown.

Your glory is my hearts desire.
This gift You gave with Holy Fire.
Make all my life a sacrifice—
That others come to Worship You.

Your glory is my hearts desire.
This gift You gave with Holy Fire.
Make all my life a sacrifice—
That others come to Worship You.

The Beauty of the Lord

The Lord is my light, my salvation He is
Whom then shall I Fear?
The Lord is the strength of my life—yes He is
Of whom shall I be afraid?

Chorus
And with joy I will sing the beauty of the Lord
And with Joy I will sing all my praises to Him
And with joy I will sing of the beauty of the Lord
And with joy I will sing to my King.

When the wicked came upon me to eat of my flesh
My enemies stumbled and fell
Though a host encamp against me, my heart shall not fear
Christ is my confidence still.

CHORUS

One thing I will seek and desire all my days
I will dwell in the House of the Lord
All my life; with all my heart, will I seek His sweet face
And behold the beauty of the Lord.

CHORUS

In the times of my troubles; I’m hidden in Christ
And I will glorify Him
In the secret of the place of His marvelous grace
He will my pavilion be.

CHORUS

And now my head is lifted above my enemies
I will offer sacrifices of joy
And in His tabernacle with joy I now sing
Lord have mercy when you hear my voice.

CHORUS

You spake to my heart through the blood of the Cross
And caused me to hear Your voice.
Your Word gave me life and said, “Seek Ye My face”
My heart will now seek Your face.

CHORUS

In the Land of the Living, Your goodness I see
Or surely I would have lost heart.
We will wait upon You as You strengthen our heart—
And with courage we wait upon You.

And with joy I will sing the beauty of the Lord
And with Joy I will sing all my praises to Him
And with joy I will sing of the beauty of the Lord
And with joy I will sing to my King.

The Beauty of the Lord (Psalm 27)
Michael E. Wood – October 5, 2009

As We Whimper and Whine

(And lest I should be exalted above measure through the abundance of the revelations, there was given to me a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan to buffet me, lest I should be exalted above measure. For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.)
2 Cor 12:7-10)

Tho so unworthy, You bid us to come—
Drink deep of the Fountain, which is Your dear Son.
Our thirst You doth fill with Your marvelous grace,
As we look through Your Word to behold Your Sweet Face.

Oh, help us to hate what You hate of ourselves;
As we whimper and whine, as we look to our delves.
Your grace is sufficient; Your strength is made strong,
As we boast of infirmities which cause us to long—

For more of Your wisdom and more of Your love,
To fill us with power and strength from above.
Christ, only Christ can fill our desire
To bring You the glory in all of our mire.

As pitiful children, we confess of our need
To learn to take pleasure in all where You lead.
We thank You, Oh Father; correction You bring,
And cause us to glory, and cause us to sing—
Of all of the wonders of Your matchless grace;
To lead us to heaven to see Your Dear Face.

What wondrous affection You'll show when You're done,
By bringing reproaches as You did to Your Son—
To make us like Jesus in all that You do,
To strengthen Your body as we are made new.

Oh, use us to strengthen the weak feeble knee,
As we bow in submission to Your Sovereignty.
Treasures of mercy, we ask of You now;
To strengthen our hands, and continue to plough.

To preach of the gospel—Your Kingdom Will Come;
In Power, Your Spirit, will make us all One.
Beholding Your glory forever we'll be;
Rejoicing in Jesus throughout all eternity.

Michael E. Wood
09-21-09

Now Unto Him Be All The Glory

(Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. Eph. 3:20,21)

Now unto Him be all the glory.
Now unto Him be all the praise.
Now unto Him be all the glory.
Who worketh in us by His love without end all our days.

Grace You have giv'n, because it did please You—
Forgiveness of sins, Your pleasure to give.
Chosen in Jesus, to be made holy;
To the praise of the glory of Your grace, accepted in Him.

You caused us to hear the truth of the gospel—
Enlightened our eyes, to see by Your Spirit.
Hope now we have, because of Your calling;
Because of Your mercy, we're raised now with Him from the dead.

For now in Christ, we are brought near to You
And through His blood, we are made one.
He is our peace, we now can come to You—
By One Spirit O, Father in holiness we now draw nigh.

We are Your church, we are Your body;
Built upon Christ, Who now is our head.
(Built upon Christ, our Chief Cornerstone)
We who believe are carefully joined in Him—
A dwelling for You by Your Spirit forever, Amen.

And for this cause, we are made ministers,
To spread the Good News by Your mighty power.
And for this cause we bow our knees to You;
Oh, fill us with strength by Your Spirit with love from on high.

Now unto Him be all the glory.
Now unto Him be all the praise.
Now unto Him be all the glory.
Who worketh in us by His love without end all our days.

(Up an octave)
Now unto Him be all the glory.
Now unto Him be all the praise.
Now unto Him be all the glory.
Who worketh in us by His love without end all our days.

Michael E. Wood
09-19-09

We Thank You Today

Michael's Prayer 09/12/2009

Our Father which art in Heaven, we thank You for who You are. For the wisdom that You not only possess; but, that also transcends our ability to comprehend, and has brought us unto Yourself, that we may behold Your glory.

We thank You for our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, who has given Himself through the perfection of such a holy life here on earth that it was not only possible for Him to offer Himself as a sacrifice for the sins of His people; but, for the joy that was set before Him, embraced the Cross of suffering affliction, having satisfied the eternal wrath that would have been rightfully our own and has presented Himself in our stead, having fully satisfied both that which You desired of Him and for us.

We thank You for the gift of eternal life, through Him that has loved us with an everlasting love, that we might be enabled to view the life You’ve given us, with an eternal perspective, having been raised with Him out of the dunghill of hopelessness and helplessness, striving about things that are vanities of our own minds.

We thank You for the blood which has not only been presented before You as the sweet smelling savor of acceptance, in exchange for the corruption and putrefying stench of our sins; but, through which we have been granted forgiveness for our sins—and continually cleanses us from all that remains of sin within us.

We thank You for the gift of Your Spirit , who at this moment, not only indwelleth us; but, guides us into all truth that we, through the love of the truth, shall be conformed more and more into the image of Your dear Son—as we are Your salt and light in this dark and decaying world of men. We thank You for His bold intersession and perfection in asking on our behalf all that You desire for us. Not only of those things that we have need of in this life; but for the one that is to come.

We thank You that You delight in mercy—that Your mercies are new everyday; and that because of Your great mercies, which are beyond our own comprehensions, You also delight in us and cause us to not only delight in You; but, grant to us that same boldness whereby we are embraced—we are enabled to approach unto You.

We thank You for the grace that You have implanted into the very core of our being; whereby we have received from You so great a salvation., that every aspect of our being has been translated out of the kingdom of darkness and into the Kingdom of Light in Your Son. And,though we know that there is so much in us that is not there yet.

We thank You for the guarantee of Your Word, which You have commanded on our behalf, that we shall be where You are, not only in spirit; but, in body, as well.

We ask You today to transform our minds by Your Spirit through Your Word, that we may behold Your glory. Help us today to take up the cross of our present circumstances and follow You unreservedly. Show us how we may not only lay down our lives for the brethren; but, also empower us, with the power from on high, that we may be overwhelmed by the beauty of Christ, and that He may receive glory, and honor and praise, both now and forevermore. Amen

SIN ATONED BY CHRIST ALONE

(Romans 3:25,26: Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation through faith in his blood, to declare his righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God; To declare, I say, at this time his righteousness: that he might be just, and the justifier of him which believeth in Jesus. )

How true it is that God is love;
But, God is also just.
And all of sin He'll not forgo,
For judgment is a must.

His character consistent all,
He Was, and Is, will Be.
His judgment will show forth His praise,
Through all eternity.

Oh, think not to presume upon
The mercy of our God;
When you will not from sin repent,
And face His mighty rod.

And beaten to the dust you'll be;
Your soul, it will not die.
And just He'll be Who will not hear;
Though from the pit you cry.

Think not your best be good enough
When all is said and done—
Trust not that God is like yourself
And He your vict'ry won.

No church, religion, or kept law
Will keep you from this fate.
His wrath upon you will be just,
Though love He'll not forsake.

The cross of Christ; your only hope—
For justice has been served;
And vindicated, God is now,
From wrath He has not swerved.

Our Righteous, Holy Saviour
Showed forth His Light that day,
“Forgive them Father” was His cry,
As for our sins He paid.

And in the tomb they buried Him—
Corruption could not touch;
The sinless Son of God arose,
Victorious over such—

As would have kept us too
From all the glories of His grace;
Were we not chosen first in Him
Of all of Adam's race.

For just is God, and justifier
Of all that do believe,
In Jesus Christ, the Son of God
Who died on Calvary.

The Word made flesh now satisfies
The righteousness of God,
And mercy now we have received
To walk upon the sod.

Our hearts now filled with true desire,
And for His glory live;
Until we see Him face-to-face,
And to Him glory give.

All praise to Him our righteous One
Who intercedes for all,
For sin atoned, by Christ alone,
The ransomed from the fall.

And at His feet, we'll cast our crowns;
To us were freely given,
As we behold the beauty of
Our risen Lord in Heaven.

Michael E. Wood
08/31/2009

His Wrath Satisfied

(And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified. 1 Corinthians 2:1-2)

Of all the philosophers of life,
And all that are to come;
Not one can touch the nth degree—
The death of God’s Dear Son.

The life He lived out on the earth
The fullness—all His own
Laid down to offer up Himself
O’ Feel His mighty groan

My debt He paid upon that Cross;
None other could have borne.
The agony of all my sins,
For justice met that morn.

How can I speak of other things
Or glibly live my life;
When all my life I owe to Him
Who is my sacrifice.

And satisfied, my Father Is,
With all He did for me.
Eternal praise is now my theme,
And shall be eternally.

“O’ Come”, He bids me, “Now proclaim,
By grace through faith alone—
In Christ alone, O’ sinner come
And bow before His throne.”

“Escape the wrath that is to come—
God’s mercy did provide.
His Glory now revealed to you
In Jesus Christ and Him crucified.”

Michael E. Wood 08/20/09

Praise His Precious Name

O' Praise Your name for all the ways
Which we unworthy feel.
To bring us to the Cross again
And bow before the hill.

Mount Calvary, our only hope,
On which our Saviour died;
And shed His blood, redeeming us,
As from that hill He cried.

Forgive them Father for all the things,
Of which they know not, do.
Into Your hands. my worthy Spirit
Commend I unto You.

Gethsemane prepared the way
And to the full He drank;
The Wrath of God poured out on Him--
Raised from the pit we sank.

His resurrection now secured;
His finished work declare,
And we by grace, through faith alone,
Will in His glory share.

Forever and forever,
We will praise His precious name.
Jesus Christ, yesterday, today,
And forever--the same.

Michael E. Wood 08/16/2009 9:38 am

Teach Us Your Way

Teach us Your way O’ LORD
We will walk in Your truth
Unit our heart to fear Your Name
We will praise You LORD
With all our heart
And glorify Your Name for evermore
And glorify Your Name for evermore
Teach us Your way
Teach us Your way
O’ LORD our God

We are made new in Christ...
The old is passed away...
All things are now become new.
We will live unto Him...
And not to ourselves,
And glorify Your Name forevermore.
And glorify Your Name forevermore.
All things are new.
All things are new,
O, LORD our God.

We are ambassadors
For our Mighty King
The King of Kings and LORD of Lords
We will walk in Your Light
In Your righteousness
And glorify Your Name for evermore
And glorify Your Name for evermore
Your Salt and Light
Your Salt and Light
O’ LORD our God

You made Him sin for us,
Who knew no sin,
And we come to You in Him.
The righteousness of God...
In Christ our LORD,
To glorify Your Name forevermore.
To glorify Your Name forevermore.
Now reconciled,
Now reconciled,
O LORD our God.

Teach us Your way O’ LORD
We will walk in Your truth
Unit our heart to fear Your Name
We will praise You LORD
With all our heart
And Glorify Your Name for evermore
And Glorify Your Name for evermore
Teach us Your way
Teach us Your way
O’ LORD our God

Michael E. Wood 08/09/2009

We Look to You

While casting all my care upon
The One who died for me,
I cannot be discouraged
For His light illumines me.
Though vile with sin and so much more
Than I can comprehend,
His love has lifted me to see
His glory is my end.

(CHORUS)
Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend,
We look to You to make us strong.
In Your glory we shall stand,
Embraced by You for Whom we long.

Each day I struggle with the thoughts
That press upon my mind,
And He in solemn stillness speaks--
My soul He doth refine.
Through mercy and the blood of Christ,
He gave to me His word.
Through which He comes delighting in
His voice of which I've heard.

(Chorus)

Oh, like a Shepherd lead me now
To call upon Your name.
And cause me not to trust at all
In riches or in fame.
Oh, magnify Yourself today,
That all before You fall,
And give to them the grace they need,
That on Your name they call.

(Chorus)

While life and breath remain in us,
We ask you to direct,
Each step we take before Your throne
To purge out every speck,
Of all that does not honor You,
Your glory only seek,
And trust You more in every way,
The One Who saves the meek.

Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend,
We look to You to make us strong.
In Your glory we shall stand,
Embraced by You for Whom we long.

In Your glory we shall stand,
Embraced by You for Whom we long.

Michael E. Wood – August 6, 2009

Rejoicing with You in Jesus!

Rejoicing with you; my dear precious love—
Through the gift we are given from Heaven above.
His tender compassion's we're made to behold,
In the midst of His glory, His story is told.

CHORUS
"Rejoicing in Jesus, our Lord and our God,
We walk by His mercy, upholding His rod.
His Word ever clearer, His voice ever near;
We call on His Spirit, to guide and to cheer.

Our faith never failing, His faithfulness sure,
His grace so sufficient, His love ever pure.
The seal of His Spirit doth teach us to trust,
His bold intercession shows forth His lust.

(Chorus)

To bring us to Jesus, made perfect in Him,
We'll praise Him forever in psalm and in hymn.
Oh, be now encouraged—we’re held in His hand,
In certain assurance, made able to stand.

(Chorus)

So now to the task in this day we are giv’n,
And give Him the glory in the land of the liv’n.
Seeking His sheep who have strayed from the fold.
Filled with His Spirit, we are made bold.

"Rejoicing in Jesus, our Lord and our God,
We walk by His mercy, upholding His rod.
His Word ever clearer, His voice ever near;
We call on His Spirit, to guide and to cheer."

Michael E. Wood

In the Face of Christ

[2nd Cor.4:4-(5)-14;Gen.1:3,4;]

Let there be light,
And there was the light.
The voice of God spake it to be.
And God saw the light,
The light that was good.
The Light of the world has spoken to me.

(Chorus 1)
The Light of the gospel of Christ,
Has shown in my heart,
And the darkness can do nothing but flee.
Let there be light!

We preach not ourselves,
But Christ Jesus the Lord,
And you we serve for Jesus sake.
The image of God shall shine unto you,
That you might be made to partake.

(Chorus)

This Treasure we have, and not of ourselves.
The excellence of power of our God.
In our mortal flesh, this body he gave,
With peace our feet He now hath shod.

(Chorus)

Know of His Light, the glory of God,
In the face of Jesus Christ.
Dying with Him, we'll rise from the grave,
And face to face our faith will be sight.

(Final Chorus)
The glorious gospel of Christ,
Has shown in my heart,
And the darkness can do nothing but flee.
Let there be light! Let there be light!
Let there be light!

Michael E. Wood
July 20, 2009

"The Memory of the Just is Blessed"

"The memory of the just is blessed ..." Proverbs 10:7a

Jack Hedgecock was 80 years old. Pastor Barkman read from 1 Corinthians 4, versus 1 and 2: “Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.”

The entire message was on the faithfulness of this man and yet the faithfulness of Christ and the grace of God working in this man and through this man throughout his life; and he spoke of different areas in which he was faithful—and one thing that really touched my heart was when he turned to Jack’s wife and said, “He loved you”.

He spoke of having found a note in the back pew where they sit (that had been left there) where Jack had written a note to his wife talking about how much he had enjoyed a particular outing that they had shared and Pastor Barkman spoke of how Jack had continued to romance her throughout his life.

One statement that he made was that Jack was a warrior for the Lord Jesus Christ and then there was a letter to be read that one of Jack’s daughters wrote:

For my Dad
(The precious words of his Daughter, Bonnie Price),

“The only thing we know for certain; is that life is uncertain and death is inevitable. It is said that we preach our funerals with the lives we live—my father’s life can be summed up in one word “faithful”.

He was Faithful to his God; his wife; his family; and, his friends. To know Jack Hedgecock was to respect him. He was small in stature; but, he was a great man. He wasn’t always right; he wasn’t perfect; but, he was genuine; he was modest; he had no pretense and he made an impact on all who met him.

My father’s life verse was 2 Timothy 2:15 and anyone who ever received a card, letter, or any form of correspondence; always saw this reference. It reads: “Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.”

To my knowledge, unless he was too sick to do so, there was not a day that went by that my father was not reading and studying the Bible. He was a prayer warrior. I cannot count the times that I saw him kneeling to pray.

Daddy did not let opportunities to witness pass him by. While in the hospital, he could hardly breathe with an oxygen mask on his face, he motioned for his doctor to come closer—with ragged breath he asked, “Are you my doctor?” The doctor replied, “Yes”, and Daddy asked, “Are you a Christian?” His doctor answered, “No, I am not.” Daddy smiled at him and said, “Well, you should be—it’s the greatest thing on earth.”

My Daddy’s gone from this earth; but, not from our hearts. His testimony will live on forever in those whose lives he touched. He was my cheerleader; my encourager; my mentor; helper and friend. He was my Daddy; and, I love him with all my heart.

Daddy would not want us to stand by his grave and weep. He is not there. He knew that the secret to death is found in the heart of life—the life of Christ. For the Christian there is no end in death. Death is but a gateway to eternity before which we stand with trembling apprehension of leaving our loved ones and anticipation of meeting our Savior; our God. Like a river that flows to the sea and empties into something more powerful, more vast and wonderful than itself; so is death for the Christian. We cease to breath here; but, come into the presence of God unencumbered with the toils, struggles and trials of this flesh. A soul has gone to Heaven. Is Heaven sad? Shout the good news, “He has gone home!” Wave the banners and the checkered flag, “Jack Hedgecock has run his course. He has finished the race—Well Done Dad!”

Jack Hedgecock went to be with the LORD May 8, 2009; but, to this day, you can call the house in which he lived and hear his voice saying, "Isn't Christ a Wonderful Saviour." He being dead yet speaketh.

Building Up by Breaking Down

“He delivereth the poor in his affliction , and openeth their ears in oppression” Job 36:15

How oft we seek to glory in
The things that we would do,
When God, in mercy, doth afflict
To give a heart that's true

In moments when we fail to see
In things He sends our way
The face of Him Who lovingly sends
Fire to save the day.

CHORUS
He buildeth up by breaking down,
Both pride and sin within.
Our faith refined to make Him known,
It's Christ we are to win.
And worship Him in holiness;
Give glory to His Name--
His voice will speak majestically,
In Christ we are to win .
(Ps. 29:1,2,4)

Sore troubled minds, Oh look to Him
Whose faithfulness is sure
And glory in the cross you bare,
His gift to make you pure.

Rejoice with Him Oh, righteous one,
Declared before the throne,
By blood and Spirit come to Him,
Who took you for His own.

(Chorus)

In grateful praise and thankfulness
Exalt His Name on high,
Restore to Him His rightful place,
In humbleness draw nigh.

Within, without, His chastening hand
Doth bring us to our knees,
And give to us the grace we need,
That pleasing we shall be.

(Chorus)

How beautiful His precious smile,
To us He doth bestow;
To fix our hope in Him alone,
As homeward we will go

That we may apprehend from Him,
Who apprehended us;
The Prize of Jesus Christ Himself,
All else we count but dust.

Conform us to Thy image,
For Thy own Name sake alone;
That all may come to know
That you are God, and God alone.

He buildeth up by breaking down,
Both pride and sin within.
Our faith refined to make Him known,
It's Christ we are to win.
And worship Him in holiness;
Give glory to His Name--
His voice will speak majestically,
In Christ we are to win .

(1st Pet. 1:3-9; Phil. 3:7-14)

Michael E. Wood
(6-10-09 8:43a.m.)

What Wonderous Affection

(Sung to the tune of "To God Be the Glory")

No longer intrigued by this dark passing world,
His banner of love, over me, He unfurled.
Protecting my soul by His sovereign divide
Through the blood of His cross, spilled forth from His side.

(Chorus 1,2)
Give Him praise, give Him Praise!
Ye redeemed of the land.
Give Him praise, give Him praise!
Show forth His right hand.
The pure revelation of His soveriegn grace,
That brought us to Calv'ry,
When He died in our place.

Crucified in my Jesus; all glory to Him
Who ransomed my soul from destruction and sin.
The world cannot have me—I belong to my King,
Therefore I will praise Him; therefore I will sing.

(Chorus)
No glory I find in one thing I can do;
With wondrous affection, His mercies are new.
And look to the day that my faith will be sight—
My perfection is sure, to my Father's delight.

(Chorus 3,4)
Give Him praise, give Him Praise!
Ye redeemed of the land.
Give Him praise, give Him praise!
Show forth His right hand.
The pure revelation of His soveriegn grace,
That gives Him the glory,
As we seek His face.

He sees me in Jesus, in glory so bright;
And hidden in Him, I’m concealed in His light.
Chosen to be with my Lover and Friend;
And give Him the glory—to this be my end.

Michael E. Wood
05/12/2009

Every Single Breath

Enraptured by His Precious love;
I feel my love so small.
And yet He bids me grace and peace,
His Patience doth enthrall.

Oh, for a heart to give to Him
With every single breath,
The glory due His Precious Name,
The LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.

I dare not trust one single thought
Of all that I might give,
For nothing LORD compares to You,
In love with You, we live.

What great affections You doth stir,
In this poor faltering mind,
Through blessed servants of Your grace,
In love with You we find;

All hail the Pow'r of Jesus Name,
We at Your feet doth fall,
And humbled by Your matchless love
With strength from You we call.

Oh, give to us more love For Thee,
In every word and deed,
To walk in every grace You give,
To meet our every need.

With joy we press more upward still,
In light and love we stand;
Provoke to all Your Immanence,
To dwell in Canaan's land.
(Jer.23:23,24 ; Col. 1:17)

Michael E. Wood April 21, 2009

Psalm 27:8

When thou saidst, Seek ye my face; my heart said unto thee, Thy face, LORD, will I seek. Psalm 27:8

How oft we feel the weight of all
The frailties of our flesh;
The need for God to come and take
The burden from our breast.

We feel the smallness of our own
Puny, paltry, quest;
Those things that once did satisfy—
No longer tops our list.

We're drawn to things that are above;
The quiet, peace, and rest.
We struggle through our own hearts lust
By grace, we're given this.

Secured by sovereign mercy still;
With bands of love He calls;
Our Father's everlasting love,
Recalls us to the Cross.

Humbled by the death He died—
Our strength for flight renewed;
Encouraged by our Saviors blood,
His face we seek anew.

Remove from us all selfish thought,
Your Glory only seek;
Your vision, through your Word, we ask—
Your Holy Spirit keep,

Our gaze upon the Risen One—
Who intercedes for all;
Redeemed from all the nations still
The ransom from the Fall.

Return we plead, “Oh, Righteous ONE
Oh make us one with You—
That we may praise your Holy Name,
As You make all things new.

Michael E. Wood - April 7, 2009

The Passing of a Brother

As I stood outside this morning and my eyes beheld the two large oak trees next to Grandma’s--standing in their winter nakedness before the sunrise—I thought of the acorns that lay on the ground below (which had fallen below) providing food for the creatures of God and quite possibly the deer which come near the house from time-to-time.

My mind went to a question asked of me by Pastor Grant, months ago; when he was still in good health. As he is physically blind, and we had not much opportunity to speak—I approached him while he sat in one of the chairs at the welcome center at Beacon. Laying my right hand on his right hand, I introduced myself as Michael Wood. Being a little witty, and making reference to my last name, he asked me, “What kind of tree are you?”

My mind went to Psalm 1 (and especially versus 2 and 3) and the immediate answer that came out of my mouth was, “I am an evergreen”. Psalm 1:2, 3 “…His delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.”

As I glory in the thought of the blessing of God upon my life, and upon all of His chosen, intricately designed by Him to bring glory to Himself, I grow also in my appreciation of His design of all His "trees" (Isaiah 55:12); which bring forth fruit in their season—providing food for all, and especially for the household of faith. And most especially, for those who are like the deer, which panteth by the waters; whose souls longeth after Him. He alone is our hearts desire and we long to worship Him.

You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship You.

I want you more than gold or silver
Only You can satisfy
You alone are the real joy giver
And the apple of my eye.

You alone are my strength, my shield
To You alone may my spirit yield
You alone are my hearts desire
And I long to worship You.

You're my friend and You're my brother
Even though you are a King
I love You more than any other
So much more than anything.

Father, we would ask you today to strengthen us and to cause us to desire you alone above every earthly desire that we may have. We commit our hearts, our souls, our minds—our very being; and every aspect of our lives to You. We lay our all before You, and trust that You will do good; that You are who You are; and You will give grace for Your Glory. In Jesus name. Amen.

William Grant , at the age of 93 ; having kept the faith , having finished his course ; was received into the joy of the LORD AT 2:30 A.M. / 2-11-09. Unknown to billions in this world, but well know to our Father which is in heaven. A countless multitude will stand before our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ because of the work of His grace through the life of this humble servant who was a faithful husband, father, missionary and pastor.

Michael E. Wood - February 12, 2009

A Psalm of David

“Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits: Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases; Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies; Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle's.” Psalm 103:1-5

As I pondered the realm of this portion of this Psalm, the question came to mind: Are we not given a reminder of our need to remember, on a regular basis, all of that which has been provided us through and in the Name of the LORD our GOD?

One of the multitude of blessings we have received, as a gift from our Lord and our God, is a heart which has been enabled and activated to respond to Him in the midst of the frailty of the flesh and the body in which we live. One of the impairments of the finite minds that we possess, and as a result of the fall of which we are all partakers, is the inability to recall instantly ALL OF THE BENEFITS of which we have been blessed with. Therefore we are called to bring to remembrance, TO FORGET NOT.

O, how easily we forget. Even the very disciples and followers of Christ Himself, as He lived and walked in all perfection before them, struggled with this plague of forgetfulness, and had need to be reminded of the power of God; as demonstrated through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Thank God that we are not left to ourselves to remember; but, are gently reminded to remember, as He knows our frame, that we, in our flesh, are but as dust before Him, in which dwelleth no good thing and would not of ourselves desire anything to do with Him. He knows that our thoughts end in a day, and of our need for Him, far better than we can comprehend. It is He Who has and does remember the covenant of which He has made with us, and has given Himself to keep with us.Tis not that I did choose thee, for Lord that could not be. This heart would still refuse thee, hadst thou not chosen me. (Josiah Conder 1789-1855)

Father, we thank You that you have chosen us and called us to Yourself. Through Your Sovereign mercy, You have delighted in us and caused us to delight in You. Cause us to behold all that we possess in You. In Jesus Name. Amen.

Michael E. Wood - February 5, 2009

The GREAT "TRANS-PARENT"

January 9, 2009

As I was reading yesterday morning, I came to 1st Tim.5:24 , "Some men's sins are open beforehand going before to judgement ...." With the understanding that all our sin, and all our sins, have been and are open before God having been judged before in Christ, we are now made free to be who He has made us to be in Him!

So then the idea of becoming (as we already are) "transparent" came to mind: Transparent before God and man. As we are enabled to draw nigh to God by faith in His Word (1JN.5:8 .. "there are three that bear witness in earth , the Spirit , and the water , and the blood : and these three agree in one"), He graciously and mercifully exposes to us our sins , for the purpose that we might see Christ more precious than ever before. For where sin abounds, grace does much more abound.

This brings us back to the word TRANSPARENT - When we think of the word transparent, we think of something you can see through (Rev.21:21 " ... AND THE STREET OF THE CITY was PURE GOLD, AS IT WERE TRANSPARENT(clear)GLASS").Oh , that our faith would be of such a quality that Christ would be seen more clearly through us every single day of our earthly pilgrimage.

That His beauty would be so vivid, that all we come in contact with would be so absolutely overwhelmed; that their focus would no longer be on the window (being us) but on Him who reveals Himself through us. He reveals Himself first to us and then through us. (1st Tim. 1:12-16 "As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, He sends us forth") The brighter the Light, the more evident become the spots of that which remains of indwelling sin

Father, we come before You In confidence, that confidence that has come as a gift from You and is returned to You by way of confession, as You have given us Your Word that the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin. .

Oh , help us that we might approach You, as You have commanded, and have therefore declared unto us in such a personal way , that we may obtain mercy , and find grace to help in time of need. Oh, that You would continue to transform us by the renewing of our minds with Your Word, that we would become more transparent, that You would use us as vessels of Your mercy, whereby You would translate Your children out of the kingdom of darkness and into the Kingdom of Light for Your glory, in Jesus Name. AMEN

Christ Jesus is THE GREAT "TRANS-PARENT"; who takes us unto Himself and nourishes us and washes us with the washing of the Water of His Word. Through His mercy He gives to us life , as we are birthed into His Kingdom. He clothes us with His Righteousness; He arms us with faith, and He grows us into responsible adults, and uses us to become little trans- parents ourselves, to bring to birth and to care for His children.

Father, we ask that You would deliver us from every element and sub-particle of pride that remains in us as we lay this and our very being before you today; that Christ would be magnified in our bodies as You Give us the strength to be yielded to all You have for us and freely give to us for Your glory in Jesus name. Amen!

The words to this song by Chris Tomlin come to mind:

He became sin Who knew no sin
That we might become His Righteousness
He humbled himself and carried the cross

Love so amazing
Love so amazing
Jesus Messiah

Name above all names
Blessed Redeemer
Emmanuel

The rescue for sinners
The ransom from Heaven
Jesus Messiah
Lord of all

His body the bread
His blood the wine
Broken and poured out
all for love

The whole earth trembled
And the veil was torn
Love so amazing
Love so amazing, yeah

Lord of all
All our hope is in You
All our hope is in You
All the glory to You

God The light of the world.... and HIS SONG continues to go forth in us and through us as we live and breathe and have our being in Him.

Michael E. Wood

The Glory of His Grace

Oh, the beauty of His precious love;
The splendor of His grace.
As He by sovereign mercy
Has led us to this place.

This place, secured by Him with whom,
No mortal man can touch;
This place of hope within the veil
Where angels dwell and such.

Our eyes are made to see the One,
Who died to set us free.
Our ears are made to hear His call,
And follow joyfully.

Our hearts are made to yearn for Him,
And seek Him through His Word.
Fulfill the plan, designed by Him,
Proclaim His glory heard.

Throughout our time on earth and more,
Throughout eternity.
To magnify His precious name,
Who sets the captives free.

Oh, with a burning heart for Him,
With eagles wings we soar,
Above the world of sin and strife;
This land of wanting more.

None other is so loving,
None other is so kind.
To carry us above the dust,
And leave this world behind.

So with me now, let’s venture on
Behold Him face-to-face;
Exalt the glory of His cross;
The glory of His grace.

Michael E. Wood 12/31/2008

The "Perfect" Gift

December 23, 2008

As I awoke this morning and saw the time was 5:38 a.m. my first thought was to go back to bed; but, then my mind went back to when I was a kid; finding it hard to sleep on Christmas Eve--because of the excitement of what Christmas morning held.

I couldn't go back to sleep because of the excitement of seeing the unwrapped gifts under the tree, and the prospect of unwrapping the one's that were yet wrapped concealing the gift's in particular that had my name on them which seemed to have been calling out to me for days.

I can remember the overwhelming joy of receiving those things of which I had hoped for, and I recall the memory of those things of which (at that time) did not strike me as being of great value; or, the disappointment of not receiving that which was expected.

My, how some things change over the years; and, how our appreciation of the things we valued at one time lose their allurement and the things we saw little value in become prized possessions.

How we learn the lesson that it is truly more blessed to give than to receive, and are still learning, by the way, and will continue to learn as long as there lies within us any speck of selfish pride hidden from our view at the present.

Thank you Jesus, that all our expectation is in You as You continue to conform us into your image through the washing of the water of the Word. We thank You for another day and for the desire You have placed within us for You. Help us that we would, with all of our being, be transformed by the renewing of our minds that we might prove that which is good and acceptable and perfect in Your sight.

We ask for the grace to remove the logs from our eyes which have blurred our vision; that we might see clearly to remove the splinters lodged in the eyes of our brothers and sisters in Christ; That we might be used of you, for the advancement of Your kingdom and for the cause of Christ. We thank You for the cross whereby You have not only made possible the probability of these things; but, have in fact secured the reality of these things as we wait upon You, knowing that You shall fulfill all Your Word unto Your glory in Jesus name. AMEN

Michael E. Wood 12/23/2008

Content in Him

God woke me to Himself this morn,
It was His choice for me.
Through all my sin and muddled thoughts
His cross has set me free.

As thoughts and dreams of days gone by
Came rushing to my mind,
Of those who walked this pilgrim way
God's glory they did find.

Of Ruth and Jacob, Joseph too,
Their stories all declared
His grace sufficient for each day
Their cross for Him they bared.

It was His word that led them through
Their tragedies and loss,
That gave them strength and comfort too,
To bare this mighty cross.

Of death to self and suffering
His grace caused them to stand.
To run their race and see His face,
Led forth by His right hand.

Content in Him is where I am,
My heart is in His hand;
To do with me as He sees fit,
Fulfilled by His command.

Oh, for the grace to trust Him more,
This song He sings for me;
His Spirit guides and strength provides
For all my liberty.

Michael - November 30, 2008