35
Poems for the Believer’s Home Expressing the hope and joy found in Christ, the pre- eminent object of the believer’s home Copyright 2007

Poems for the Believer’s Home for the Believer’s Home ... What love made our savior so willing . To give up His heavenly throne? He took on the form of a servant

Embed Size (px)

Citation preview

Poems for the Believer’s Home

Expressing the hope and joy found in Christ, the pre-eminent object of the believer’s home

Copyright 2007

2

Table of Content

Poems for the Believer’s Home .........................................................................................................................1 Table of Content ................................................................................................................................................2 Introduction........................................................................................................................................................3 Poems by Carole Moren Swaim ........................................................................................................................3

A Thousand times over… ...............................................................................................................................3 Behold, Behold, the Lamb of God… ..............................................................................................................4 Blessed Spirit Now Hear .................................................................................................................................4 But the world...................................................................................................................................................5 Can it be hard?.................................................................................................................................................6 Christ in Us......................................................................................................................................................7 Christ Reigns!..................................................................................................................................................7 Christ our Lamp ..............................................................................................................................................8 Come to me .....................................................................................................................................................8 Do you love me? .............................................................................................................................................9 Fresh Vision of Thee .....................................................................................................................................10 God Cares......................................................................................................................................................10 His Coming Draweth Nigh............................................................................................................................11 How Bright is His Coming............................................................................................................................11 I see a life ......................................................................................................................................................12 In His light.....................................................................................................................................................13 Just a word.....................................................................................................................................................13 Lift thine eye .................................................................................................................................................14 My Words shall not pass away......................................................................................................................14 None Like Christ ...........................................................................................................................................15 Once Offered .................................................................................................................................................16 Peace in Prayer ..............................................................................................................................................16 Perfect Peace .................................................................................................................................................17 Praise Him Ye Saints.....................................................................................................................................17 Praise the Lord ..............................................................................................................................................18 Precious Jewel ...............................................................................................................................................19 Proclaim the Good News...............................................................................................................................19 Reflect Him… ...............................................................................................................................................20 Reigning above..............................................................................................................................................21 Rejoice in the Father .....................................................................................................................................21 Release ..........................................................................................................................................................22 Smitten of God (Isaiah 53) ............................................................................................................................22 Sometimes my God… ...................................................................................................................................23 The Depths of love ........................................................................................................................................24 The Only Way ...............................................................................................................................................25 The wonder of Prayer....................................................................................................................................26 There is a country..........................................................................................................................................26 To Thee Oh Lord...........................................................................................................................................27 When I see Christ ..........................................................................................................................................28 Whom do you trust? ......................................................................................................................................28 Wonder of the Ages.......................................................................................................................................29 Wondrous, glorious Morn .............................................................................................................................30 Words of thanks ............................................................................................................................................30

Poems by Mark A Swaim ................................................................................................................................31 Calvary ..........................................................................................................................................................31 He Goes Before .............................................................................................................................................32 See One Dying ..............................................................................................................................................32 Trusting God .................................................................................................................................................33

Poems by David G. Swaim Jr. .........................................................................................................................34 A Garden .......................................................................................................................................................34 The Grace of God hath set me free ...............................................................................................................34

Introduction Singing is a part of life. We sing when we are happy and we sing when we are sad. We sing our successes and we sing to wade through our failures. The rich and poor sing alike. What would life be like without a song to sing! Songs have their beginnings in poems. We express our thoughts attempting to garner up all the strength that language can support to express our feelings on the journey of life and the treasures of the heart. The believers home is therefore a place which knows a song. There are many poems in Scripture. Perhaps the most famous are those penned by the psalmist in various experiences of life. Poems are a wonderful way to communicate the treasures and secrets of the heart. Here, then, are forty-nine select poems expressing the hope and joy found in Christ, the pre-eminent object of the believer’s home. Mark A. Swaim, April 8, 2007

Poems by Carole Moren Swaim

A Thousand times over… A thousand times over, our Father

We lift up our hearts unto thee To offer thee praise and thanksgiving

For life so abundant and free

A thousand times over we thank thee For joy in our hearts from above

For peace flowing forth without measure Form thee, Holy Spirit of love

3

4

But most of all, Heavenly Father We praise thee for sending thy Son To die on a cross for our pardon—

A work none but Christ could have done

What love made our savior so willing To give up His heavenly throne? He took on the form of a servant He died on that cross all alone

Oh, thank you, dear Heavenly Father For sending your darling, your own

To come from the heart of thy bosom Our sin and our guilt to atone

We worship the Lamb and adore Him

Praise God from whom all blessings come The blessing of blessings He’s given

Thank God for the gift of His Son

Carole M Swaim

Behold, Behold, the Lamb of God… Behold, Behold, the Lamb of God, the perfect sacrifice

Atonement for my sin-filled life ‘twas paid by God’s delight All glory by to Thee, dear Lord, my way, my truth, my life Thy presence e’er abide with me, oh Son of God, my Christ

The darling of thy bosom took my sin on Calvary’s cross

In reverence to thy word, dear God, He died for sinners lost Exalting thee He gave His all, as on that cross there spilled His blood—a perfect substitute, redemption’s plan fulfilled

What manner of love is this, oh Lord—this love on us bestowed So freely flowing, blood outpoured in love to cleanse each soul?

That through the mocking, torture, pain, our sin might be forgiven And life eternal offered all—one entrance into heaven?

One blood, one door, one life, one Lord, our Christ is all in all He paid the price, He won the fight—we’re free forevermore

Salvation’s sure, redemption’s pure, our standing’s right with God His peace, His joy, His love, His hope—He offers one and all!

Carole M Swaim

Blessed Spirit Now Hear Blessed Spirit, now hear for I long to abide

And to rest in thee ever, oh, comfort and guide Me and show me the Christ whom you love to proclaim

Help me worship in truth, glorifying God’s name

5

Holy Spirit, you’re with me, e’er dwelling within

Ever ready to speak, testifying of Him But the ears of my heart, can they hearken and hear?

Or hath sin numbed and deadened thy voice in my ear?

“Yea” my conscience cries out. “In the world thou hast trod, Thou hast yielded to sin, get thee right with thy God” “Oh, my Lord, I confess I have walked my own way Help me loathe this my sin; Lord, forgive me I pray”

“Tune these ears to thyself, free my conscience from sin

As I turn to thee now, heal this cancer within Cleanse my heart, cleanse my thoughts, wash me clean by thy word

Till I’m pure, Blessed Lord, yea this cry thou hast heard

Ever hear me oh Christ, hear this prayer, hear my plea And forgive all my sin—all that’s kept me from thee For I’m longing, I’m hungering—Lord, set me apart Till thy love and thy fullness o’erflow in my heart

To know, Blessed Redeemer, Thy soul-cleansing power

To know through the Spirit thy Presence each hour My yearning heart cries, “Draw me closer too thee

Till all else fades away, till but Christ do I see”

Till but Christ do I see—this my crowning desire Till but Christ fills my soul, till His word is my fire Till His pleasure’s my aim, till His glory’s my goal Till His life is my life, Christ, the Lord of my soul.

Carole M Swaim

But the world What a Lord is my Lord! Where are words to express

All His glory, His kingship supreme? All He was, not He is, and forever shall be Words can’t tell all His name means to me

God was there at the first, the Creator of old

And by Him all was made that was made For in Him there was life, blessed light of the world

But the world walked in darkness and shade

Yes, in darkness and shade, not the light of the Word “We don’t want Jesus Christ,” said the world

“We want darkness and sin, and the pleasures therein Not the Christ—we’re too busy to yield unto Him”

So the world nailed the Lord to a cross, to a tree

6

Where He died suffering passion, cruel sneers Oh, what heartache, what shame—man rejected God’s name

“Let His blood be on us” they all jeered

But the Savior, the Christ, from the cross overcame When He rose from the grave that third day Every sin every guilt of the world put away

Yes, forever He’s cleansed every stain

So accept Him today as your Savior and pray Yielding all that you have unto Him

The creator of old, make your Savior and Lord Give your life and your heart all to Him

Carole M Swaim

Can it be hard? Can it be hard to love

And thus to follow thee? A life of love your footsteps trod

And you say, “Follow me”

Can it be hard to love When help comes from on high?

When power comes to keep thy words “Love others—love as I”?

A word so small—yet great

So simple—yet sublime A sword so vast, so infinite

To pour on all mankind

Can it be hard to love? Your spirit walks with me

He’ll lead me in that life of love And thus I’ll follow thee

Oh, Lord, please love through me

Your Spirit is the key The key that will unlock my heart

That love might pour from me

From me, my precious Lord, From me to all mankind

Shed forth thy love within my heart From me to all mankind

Carole M Swaim

7

Christ in Us To the fact that God’s worked in our lives we acclaim

Recognizing thy hand, “Christ in us” we proclaim Overwhelmed by this purpose God’s will foreordained

Jesus Christ moving in us—one hope, one refrain

Thus our faith’s not in vain for we see God’s strong hand Moving steadfast and sure in whose palm e’er we stand

Just to rest here, dear Potter, till comes thy decree “Be ye molded together, one vessel for me”

Be ye molded together…can this be thy will? Having laid it before thee, we’ll rest here until You direct, Lord, but still we continue to pray

That our lives might be perfectly blended one day…

Lord, you’ve moved in our hearts, moved in spite of our doubts Doubts that clouded our confidence, crowding it out

Making shipwreck our faith, as it wavered and turned Double-minded, unstable, the hard way we learned

The hard way we learned: Thou art not turned aside

Yes, the work you’ve ordained will increase and abide For, despite us, oh Lord, you shall bring your sweet will

To completion—a work none but Christ can fulfill

Thus we praise thee, our God, as together we stand Awed by thee, by thy purpose, perfection, and plan

Your hand resting on us will guide all our ways And together we’ll look up, two hearts raised in praise

Carole M Swaim

Christ Reigns! Christ reigns! King from before time began

Alpha is He! Great God, praise to thee! Creator of Universe, sky, earth and sea

At the first was the Word, this word now our sword The voice of the Trinity—blessed Jesus our Lord

Christ Reigns! He’s Lord in the hearts of His own

Translated, set free from the dungeon of sin From darkness to sunshine to glory undimmed

Oh Savior, Blessed Beacon, Pure light from above We bask in thy sunshine, thy glorious love!

Christ Reigns He sits on the right hand of God

In Infinite love the true God and true man His work of redemption beforehand was planned

This work now accomplished, exaulted is He

8

Our Savior, Our Master forever to be

Christ Reigns! He rules in the heavenly realms When He comes with His angels, His pwer then known Through the earth all at once will His glory be shown

From the clouds up on high will our Ruler descend In power, in lightning, great glory, Amen!

Carole M Swaim

Christ our Lamp Christ, the Lamp for our feet, mercy shines in thy face Ever lighting our paths—beaming love, untold grace Blessed Savior and Lord, plant our feet in thy way

Precious promise abide, “Lo, I’m with you always!”

God, our beacon and lamp, oh, what light He conveys Untold brightness pours forth on this world gone astray

The Voice of our Lord, a sharp two-edged sword Burns His truth deep within through His Spirit and Word

Truly bound for God’s Heaven, our future secure

Ever safe in the Savior—Salvation assured! Brought back to the Lord through the blood of the Lamb We shall enter that Door, rest in God’s Promised Land!

Christ, our brightness forever, thy light e’er will stand

All our hope for the future we rest in thy hand Heavenly light beam thy message from glories above

Till all the world knows Him—blessed Savior of Love!

Carole M Swaim

Come to me “Come to me” the Savior’s gently calling

“On the cross I suffered death for you I’m the way, the truth, accept my pardon Trust and rest upon my word e’re true.”

How love suffered there on Calvary’s mountain Pouring down from heavenly realms above

Wondrous love came down and dwelt among us Christ the Savior, God’s own precious Son

At the cross the Love of God o’erflowing Precious blood was shed for you, for me

Come just now, accept His gracious pardon He’s the way, His death can set you free

What a price He paid—what pain and suffering Wondrous love descending from above Conquering death he overcame for all

9

Oh, take heed to hear His gracious call

May the Savior ever be your refuge Take your burdens, leave your every care

At the cross God overcame—what victory! Life eternal now is yours to share

Come to Christ, accept His tender mercy Precious Soul, He longs to cleanse your sin Come to him, our Lord will never fail you Place your trust, your faith, your all in Him

Carole M Swaim

Do you love me? “Do you love me?” Jesus whispered, as His eyes looked deep in mine

And my heart responded gladly, “Lord, you know that I am thine!” “Do you love me?” He repeated, “Are you true in every way?”

Then my eyes fell quickly downward, all at once I could not pray

“Do you love me?” He had asked me, “Have you given of your best?” I could feel the rapid heartbeat and the thump within my breast All my heart I had not yielded—though in part, but not in all

Now my Savior stood before me—would I heed his tender call?

“I love you,” He continued, “Child, my death has set you free For nailed upon that cross of shame, my blood was shed for thee

Then one sweet day your heart was moved, you called upon my Name To enter in, thy Savior, Lord—forevermore to reign!”

“In love, my child, I gave you life—why dost thou love in part? Do you not know I’ll fill your needs, each longing of your heart?

I’ll lift you up, your heart can soar, my love and life to share Thy ransomed soul in flight can rise to heights beyond compare!”

I turned to Christ, my heart went out in utter love to him Great God, Creator, Lord of all, still longed to enter in…

“My faithful Savior, ever true, your love abideth still In thee, my Lord, I’ll rest secure—I yield my life, my will”

“My heart and mind, my soul and will, to thee I freely give— Take full control, most precious Lord, your life in me fulfill”

My soul did soar, my heart took flight, and filled with joy and praise I looked into the Savior’s eyes and met His loving gaze

My Savior, Lord, forever mine—His will, His love is best

He took my hand, He drew me up, He gave my soul sweet rest Forevermore to dwell as one, a child of God am I—

Henceforth my life in Christ is hid—May God be glorified!

Carole M Swaim

10

Fresh Vision of Thee Lord, grant me a vision, fresh vision of thee

Thy fullness, thy presence my heart yearns to see Thy brightness and glory, thy greatness and grace

All the fullness of thee, Lord, my heart would embrace

Create deeper longing, a hungering heart A soul burning ever to know—not in part—

But to know thee completely, my Savior and God And to follow thy footsteps where’er thou hast trod

Blessed Word, perfect witness, revealing thyself

Oh, Scriptures of Heaven—rich storehouse of wealth Presenting thyself, Jesus Christ, as the Son

E’er brightness, the image of God, three-in-one

Pour into my heart thy true word till I’m found Cleansed from self, subtle motives, dark sin that abounds

Every selfish desire cast down, put away Till I’m seen in thy image, seen treading thy way

Make me sensitive, Lord, to thy Word every hour Ever conscious of thee, of thy beauty and power

The wonder of heaven art thou, God divine But the wonder of wonders is that thou art mine

Ever mine, God incarnate, forever the same

My Savior, redeemer, I rest in thy name For thy Spirit indwelling has sealed me to thee

Forever in Christ as thy bride I shall be

Carole M Swaim

God Cares God creates and controls—yet He cares

God keeps watch o’er each soul—yes, He cares God is with us, he guides us, he walks right beside us

He cares, truly cares, yes, God cares

God is lofty, lift up—yet He loves Christ Himself shed His blood—yes, God loves

For He saved us, He freed us, He cleansed and redeemed us He loves, truly loves, God is love

God consumes as a flame—yet He keeps God’s shield in the night—yes, He keeps

For He shelters, He covers as ‘round us He hovers He keeps, truly keeps, yes, God keeps

God’s all-powerful—yet He gives peace

11

Perfect peace, lasting peace, God gives peace For His promise is ever, “I give thee forever My peace, perfect peace” God gives peace

God is Righteous—and yet He gives rest

“Come to me” Jesus says, “I give rest Take my yoke, take my burden, they’re light, learn of me

Come to me, trust in me, I give rest

God gives rest, He gives peace—yes, God cares He keeps watch, He protects—yes, God cares

For He calls us, He seeks us, He loves us, He keeps us He cares! Truly cares! Yes, God cares!

Carole M Swaim

His Coming Draweth Nigh God’s glory lies before us! To the Savior let us yield

Oh, let’s give our all to His dear Son, our Guardian, Stay, and Shield His blood outpoured, He spent His all, He lives to keep us free

Remember, child, His promise: Soon He’s coming back for thee

This Christ of God will reappear, His coming draweth nigh Returning for His saints on earth, we’ll meet Him in the sky

The shout, the final trump shall sound, our Lord will then descend Caught up we’ll meet Him in the clouds, triumphant king and friend

The dead in Christ shall go before to greet the risen Lord Then those remaining shall arise, so says our Triune God A mystery true, we’ll not all sleep, we’ll all be made alive

This matchless feat accomplished in the twinkling of an eye

The hidden counsels of God’s heart, His perfect will for man Event decreed, a secret hid, before the worlds began

This glorious purpose now revealed, His plan made fully known At His return our bodies changed, forevermore transformed

Then loosed from death, from earth’s decay, from sin forever free

The perfect likeness of God’s Son—His image we shall be The fullness of the Godhead, all His attributes shall shine

In us--for we shall reign with Him—With Christ, with God Divine!

Carole M Swaim

How Bright is His Coming The brightness of His coming

‘Twill be as lightning on the shores When God the Son, the Prince of Peace

Flings wide all heaven’s doors

12

What realms of glory shall unfold When face to face we see

The Counselor, Savior, Lord, and Friend: What joy! Our God to see!

Someday no longer bound to earth

Our souls and Spirits free The saints shall rise—we’ll all be there

To meet Christ Jesus in the air

Tll then, we turn to Him in prayer To precious Truth, the Treasured Word

As through the eye of faith we share The Kingdom’s wealth—our Christ, the Lord!

Carole M Swaim

I see a life Oh, Lord, I see a life so frail

A frame that’s nought but dust A will so weak—a wavering leaf—

A heart too cold to trust…

My God, I know the life described— I know—because it’s mine

A life so filled with sin, self will It cries for help divine

A life so feeble, weak, and frail

So filled with sin and self Can’st thou, oh Lord, use this, my life?

If yielded to thyself?

I know with man this could not be But, thou, oh Lord, art God

In weakness—there thy strength is seen In weakness—thank you, God

So take my life and lift it up

From self, from sinking sands Blessed Potter, make me like thy Son

Conformed by thy great hands

Yes, take my life, my will, my heart Take all—thy will be done

And make me like that Blessed One— Thy well-beloved Son

Carole M Swaim

13

In His light If the Lord is our life, let us live in His light

Holy mirrors of God, His reflection e’er bright Beaming forth Jesus Christ, radiating the same,

In each thought, word and deed all His worth to proclaim

For in truth, what is life? It’s but naught without Him— Yea, without Christ we’re doomed, lost in hell, lost in sin

Our just portion black darkness, destruction our lot But God stooped, came to purge us, to cleanse sin’s dark blot

Would’st thou know my desire—it’s oneness with thee

Growing on to perfection—oh Christ, shine on me Of thy presence, oh Lord, make my heart e’er alive Till my faith is made sight, till thy day doth arrive

Breath divine, blessed Spirit, oh heavenly Dove

Ever breathing God’s heart, utter love from above This my comfort, assurance, and peace e’er sublime I rejoice in God’s earnest, His foretaste—it’s mine!

And with this thought I seek thee, I leave all to climb

Ever upward on wings, and in climbing I find As I draw night to thee, thou dost draw unto me

Then thy fragrance I find, fairest fragrance of thee…

Soon a heir with my king, what a future Christ paints! Untold mansions prepared and awaiting His saints

When His body’s complete, he’ll appear in the sky— Make us watchful, oh God, thy appearing is nigh

Hark, redeem ye the time, it’s fast ebbing away

God’s appearing draws nigh, Lo! It may be today! Let the thought of His coming, alive in each heart

Ever spur us to action, our all to impart!

Carole M Swaim

Just a word Just a word from His lips And creation was spanned

As he purposed, God’s spirit— The word—crossed the land

All the heavens above Found their place in God’s frame

Then he lit up the sky Praise his glorious name!

We are thankful, oh Lord

For these works of thy hand

14

Oh, king of the heavens, The one great I Am

Thou art ever the same Shalt forever endure

Thy years have no end How eternal and sure

Carole M Swaim

Lift thine eye Lift thine eyes, lift thy face, turn thy gaze to the place

Of the cross where Christ suffered in infinite grace Ever look to that cross where God’s glory doth shine Perfect love is revealed through his suffering divine

At His cross burdens flee as one kneels in the sight

Of the Savior, Redeemer, the Crucified Christ At the cross Satan’s kingdom is ever o’erthrown

Death and hell overcome, guilt and sin e’er atoned

Oh what love caused our Savior to die on that cross Spotless Lamb without blemish stretched out for the lost?

T’was but Christ through His death,, His oblation e’er pure That could satisfy God and redemption procure

Satisfaction complete, our transgression He’s paid

Through the shedding of blood our atonement was made Coming under His blood all are cleansed from guilt’s sore And from death passed to life via Christ, God’s true door!

He’s our Door unto life—then our way and our walk

Entering first through the blood, now through Christ we are taught God sustains us forever, blessed Spirit supreme

For Christ lives evermore to uphold the redeemed!

Jesus beckons each life—“yield thine all, yield thyself Turn your heart from earth’s pleasures, the world and its wealth.”

Give thy heart, thy allegience, to Jesus alone Lift thine eyes to the Christ—He’s your heaven, your home!

Carole M Swaim

My Words shall not pass away There’s a book that excels every other

In it’s pages pours life to the lost For God speaks to each heart—His own life to impart

Blesses Word of the Livng God

Yes, revealed in the pages of Scripture Is a message our hearts can embrace

15

For God purposed that men the world over Should taste wondrous love, glorious grace

Yes, His love speaks to hearts—what a story—

Through the life of His own precious Son And we come to see more of His mercy As the Word shows His person, the Lord

Oh, Word of the ages—enlighten our way, Pure Sword of the Spirit, assure us we pray

Our shield and defender, Thy promise holds true— “My words shall not pass away”

“My Words shall not pass away…”

What a promise, ‘twill shine from within Blessed Word my command, through the ages it stands

Yes, God’s Word—it shall ne’er pass away

Carole M Swaim

None Like Christ In all the world there’s none like Christ, our Savior, whom we love

The Master of the Universe, Eternal God of love The Christ who hushed the raging seas, who whispered “Peace be still”

That peace might reign, a mighty calm, subjected to His will

When God Incarnate walked this earth two thousand years before Behld a raging tempest rose off Galilee’s white shore

There to and fro a ship was tossed ‘midst waters chopped and churned The twelve inside were seized with fright, “Our ship will overturn!”

“The Master doesn’t care for us, we’ll perish in the deep

Those billows white will drown us, yet the Master lies asleep Why won’t He wake, doth He not know we’re doomed to ocean graves?

The waters will engulf us soon, we’ll sink beneath the waves!”

The twelve rushed forth to wake their Lord, to rouse Him out of sleep They shook Him, “Master save us lest we perish in the deep!” Christ woke, “Why are ye fearful, oh ye men of little faith?”

Then He rose and hushed the churning sea, He stilled the raging waves

At His rebuke the winds did cease, at once the sea was calm In just a word all nature heard and followed His command

The twelve looked on in wondrous awe, they marveled at the sight “What manner man is this?” None else but Christ, the Son of light!

Though storms and strife assail us here, our hearts will never fail

If Christ abides and dwells within, His inner peace prevails Thus hid beneath protective wings, enfolded by His love

We’re sheltered from the stormy blast by Christ our God above

16

Let troubles come, each tempest storm, there’s victory in sight

Let’s walk atop the boistrous waves upheld by Jesus Christ His power is sufficient, in His strength we overcame

Victory’s ours, the battle’s ended, through the might of God’s Dear Son!

Carole M Swaim

Once Offered The Son of God in agony hung from Calvary’s rugged cross The crimes of man upon a back that ached for sinners lost

Those shoulders crushed beneath the load, a burden none could share Alone He paid the price of death in tragic black despair…

On Calvary’s hill of wretched gloom rejected by his own

Enduring torture, pending doom, the love of God there shown Blessed Lord on High, Anointed One, for us He left His throne To dwell on earth, made one with us, in Him our sin’s atoned

The nails, the thorns, the sword pierced side, His blood spilled to the ground

As trembling flesh received those spikes, deep silence did abound Then on His head men placed a crown and mocked, “Hail, king of Jews!”

This scornful crowd had missed the truth—their king they had refused

Christ took all sin, the world’s my own, and nailed it to the tree The rightful and our souls deserve ‘twas paid at Calvary

For on that quivering tortured form held fast upon the cross ‘Twas crushed the mighty wrath of God—that should be poured on us

The price our righteous God demands is sure—there can be one end

“The wages of sin is death” He says, all men are left condemned “The soul that sinneth, it shall die” One end—eternal loss

Our only hope the work of Christ, redemption through His cross

This sacrifice once offered pure, the Perfect Lamb endured O’rewhelming pain, God’s wrath outpoured, salvation to secure

Thus through the cross, floodgate of love, redemption’s free and clear For God’s own Son hath paved the way, for us Christ hath appeared

Carole M Swaim

Peace in Prayer God hears, He knows, He provides!

Earnest prayer asked in Christ—in His Name, in His will God gives ear to his child’s fervent plea

In His time, ‘tis His will, God will answer—be still Wait for Him, all your needs He’ll fulfill

All my needs foreseen and fulfilled by His Word

Christ supplies me with riches untold

17

As I lay at His feet all my burdens and bonds Trusting Him monstrous grow dim

And instead, wondrous peace, blessed rest, fills my soul

Like a flood bursting forth it o’erflows Since my heart opened up to the Savior and Lord

Precious peace Christ has richly bestowed

Yes, His peace, what a blessing to freely abound Peace with God through His Son now is mine

Through His Word I found peace, found the Savior Divine— Christ the Lord, my foundation, my ground!

Carole M Swaim

Perfect Peace In the Lord—only there—can ye find perfect peace

Peace which every heart yearns for and every heart seeks Peace of mind, peace of soul, peace of heart—peace with God

Is the answer—sweet peace as life’s pathway to God

Peace that passeth all knowledge—its source is in One Who is called “Prince of Peace” who is called God the Son

Jesus Christ is our peace, He alone is the way To the Father, to peace, to eternity’s day

Praise the Lord Christ has come, come to give us this peace

Praise the Lord Christ has died, died to give us release From the clutches of sin, from the powers of hell

Praise the Lord Christ has come Praise the Lord all is well

God is good, He is gracious, all glorious and kind The fairest of fair ones, the finest of fine Majestic and mighty, yet tender and true

And loving, yes, loving—His blood spilled for you

Crown of thorn, pierced hands, blood that spilled to the ground Oh, the horror, the heartache, the hate that was ‘round

Forsaken by God—His cry, “Why hast thou?” The silence, deep silence—no answer came now…

Christ died—and the distance from God is no more

Christ died—and our peace with the Lord is restored Christ died—and in Him we’re accepted of God

Christ died—and made peace, perfect peace with our God

Carole M Swaim

Praise Him Ye Saints Praise Him, ye saints, praise His Name

18

Sing with joy in your hearts the refrain “Christ is God, He is might, He’s the Father’s delight

Be ye still, He’s forever the same!”

Sing with joy to the Savior above Praise His power, His greatness, His love

Lift glad hearts and rejoice in the Lord Be ye thankful and know He is God

Praise the Lord, Great I AM, it is done—

Through thy Son life eternal is won Now translated, set free, thine adoption are we

Lord, our life’s hid in thy precious Son

May our voices to heaven ascend Thy great power and might e’er defend Christ is Lord, tell His love to the world

Through the earth may glad tidings be sent

Let His praises resound to the skies Where omnipotent power doth lie

Christ the same, laud His glorious Name Hear, oh heavens, and praise God on high

Hail the Trinity, Godhead supreme

To thee, Lord of all, thanks we bring Praise the Father, the Spirit, the Son— Triune God, great I AM, three in one!

Carole M Swaim

Praise the Lord What a privilege to know Christ the Lord

To rejoice evermore in His love In salvation so freely bestowed—

I’m at rest, I have peace from above!

In my Lord I find meaning and light For His love shed abroad in my heart ‘Tis a lamp burning bright in my soul

Jesus Christ is my light, Praise the Lord

In His word glorious truth He unfolds And proclaims wondrous love to the world

In the Son who was sent to the cross— We escape death, destruction and loss

Our redemption is nigh—yes, His death set us free

Now we’re saved and salvation is sure God’s own Son paid the price, Christ our ransom, our all

19

In His death we’re secure, Praise the Lord

His great work now accomplished, it’s done— Our salvation through Christ has been won

But what cost, what great price when God ransomed my life When my sin and my guilt He atoned…

I rejoice in my Savior above

For I’m trusting His life-giving blood— Yes, at Calvary His life freely flowed,

Precious blood cleansed my soul, praise the Lord

Carole M Swaim

Precious Jewel The flakes that floated pure and white

Alighting on earth that night Reminded me of long ago—

A cross, a precious jewel

The Lamb of God came down to earth The Lord of earth and sky Creator of creation came

He stooped to raise me high

And now as pure as crystal flakes That fall from above

I’m standing spotless in God’s sight Redeemed by Jesus Christ

My Lord, I give thee willingly

My heart thine own to rule Fill all my soul with thy sweet will

I’m yours, Most precious Jewel

Carole M Swaim

Proclaim the Good News Proclaim the good news through the earth far and wide

Present to the world Christ the Savior who died Point our to the world God’s salvation His life Proclaim His dear Son, the Messiah, the Christ

For weary with sin, heavy burdens to bear

The earth gropes in darkness, in hopeless despair Stumbling in blindness—sure death takes its toll

Yet, there’s hope for the world—God Himself loves each soul

In the Gospel of Christ, glorious Word from above God makes know to the world His compassion and love

20

For the Godhead Supreme wants each soul tempest tossed Wondrous love in the flesh set His eyes toward a cross

Rugged cross there out stretched where in passion and pain

Christ the Lord, for the joy set before Him, was slain Yes, God emptied Himself of His Son, His delight The almighty himself came in love, gave his life

Long ago the Atonement, God’s penalty paid

That the way of salvation through Christ might be laid Only death paved the way, His work finished, we’re saved

Look to Christ on the cross, in His love dwell today

Take Christ as your own, receive Him as Lord Gently knocking He stands, why not open the door? Let Him enter your heart, let His love take control

And you’ll praise Him forever, your Savior and Lord

Carole M Swaim

Reflect Him… Perfect moon shining bright from the heavens above

Pouring light on God’s earth far below Glowing light not her own, for the sunbeams alone

Light the moon—it reflects the sun’s glow. Yes, the moon as a mirror reflecting each ray Of the sun shining bright through the night

‘Tis a light radiant, pure, ever constant and sure Ever present to light up our way

Long ago when the Light of the World left His throne

In the fullness of time He appeared Bringing hope and salvation to all who believed

Here on earth dwelt the Godhead supreme! In the form of a servant He dwelt among man Christ the Son—‘twas the Father’s delight!

Earth beheld all His glory, blessed God, Great I AM The Almighty, Christ Jesus, our light

So if we be in Christ, let us walk in His light

And reflect all the love of our God Radiant moon, e’re we stand shining bright before man,

Christ our light, His good will our command Let’s go on in the Lord, and reflect His soft glow

In His love, wondrous knowledge to grow Let’s be strong in the Lord, ever steadfast and firm

May our lives truly shine before man!

Carole M Swaim

21

Reigning above Blessed Savior of all, Thou art reigning above

At the right hand of God; Thou, the Essence of Love Art now dwelling on earth through thy Spirit Supreme—

Christ, our comfort, our life—yea, through faith thou art seen

Held fast in thy love flooding forth from on high Through the Man, Jesus Christ, unto God we draw nigh

He’s our door unto God, for the veil’s rent in twain Henceforth we come boldly in Christ’s worthy name

Only access to God, He’s our Savior, our Christ—

He’s the one God hath honored with riches and might He’s the Son, Lord of Lords, crowned with glory, with power

At whose name all shall bow in eternity’s hour

God hath said, “My delight, I have raised thee on high Have exalted thy name, nevermore shalt thou die Yea, thy offering has settled the question of sin

Henceforth death is conquered, sin’s buried within”

“Sit thou at my right hand till I make all thy foes Thy footstool, My Son, yea, and all who oppose Who’ve rejected thy love, thy salvation, and life

Who have chosen their end, chosen darkness and strife”

“Son, alone thou art worthy, oh Lamb who was slain To receive strength and riches, thy power proclaimed

Giving honor and glory, men’s voices shall raise Throughout endless ages thy name shall be praised!”

Carole M Swaim

Rejoice in the Father Rejoice in the Father, my heart sings this song

God’s arm wrought salvation—God gave His dear Son The Savior of all stooped to save us from sin

Redeemed by His blood we’ve been brought back to Him

Omnipotent God stretched His hand to the earth To lift us, redeem us, to offer new birth

Now under the shadow, beneath His great wings God’s Father’s enfold us—what comfort He brings!

Transferred to His kingdom, the Son of God’s love

In whom there’s redemption through shedding of blood Forgiveness is found in the First-born of all

Creator, One Savior, Pre-eminent Lord!

To Him be all power, all glory divine

22

Christ is God, Lord, and King—all His attributes shine In the heavens on high, Jesus rules Sovereign King

To His Majesty, fullness, His riches we sing!

Carole M Swaim

Release In Christ there’s release…

From sin… That which eats into our hearts

Seeking to destroy

Release… From strivings,

Selfish, deceitful motives: Subtle, sickening, self-willed

Release…

From all that would displace, Deprive, Destroy

Even our very delight in Him

In Christ there’s release… From the cancer,

The leprosy, The evil that would ruin

True rest with Him

In the Beloved we have Freedom,

Peace, Acceptance—

For… We are dead

And hid With him In God

And thus we have

True, Real,

Complete Release

Carole M Swaim

Smitten of God (Isaiah 53) A picture of horror was Calvary’s Hill

As there on that cross Christ was nailed

23

The Son of the Highest, Divine Prince of Peace Smitten of God, mocked, and railed…

Depression and sadness enveloped that scene

Pervading the darkness so still An air of expectancy, wonder, and fear

Hung over men’s hearts as a chill

For the forces of evil had focused their might On the Lamb who was slain for our sin

As the powers of hell loosed the floodgates of wrath Satan’s fury lashed out upon Him

In this world gone astray, lost in sin and despair

At a cross God in love intervened He allowed all our sin to be laid on His Son

With whose stripes we are healed and redeemed

Despised and rejected, acquainted with grief Wounded and bruised for our sin

This man of great sorrow had offered His Soul This Soul, God’s oblation for sin…

For it pleased God to bruise Him, to put Him to grief

His own Son made a curse in our stead When He crushed upon Christ every sin of the world

God’s great wrath crashed upon His bowed head

Yes, God saw the travail of His Son on that cross “Satisfied,” His decree was proclaimed

“Man justified now, for his sin has been borne By my servant who henceforth shall reign”

Carole M Swaim

Sometimes my God… Sometimes my God, it seems as though

My heart contains no love at all: No love for Thee, nor for thy ways

No love for Christ, no songs of praise

Any yet, my God this heart is thrilled When e’re I think the blood that spilled At Calvary’s cross was spilled for me:

Dear Lord, you died to ransom me!

And as I search my heart and mind And there such filth and hardness find

This heart cries out, “What made you go To bleed, to die, to suffer so?”

24

Dear Lord, what made you leave your throne?

What made you come to die alone? What held thee to that cross of shame

Accursed of God, smitten, slain?

What kept thee on that rugged tree? Could nails or spikes have fastened thee?

Nay, angels would have set thee free Had they but heard one cry from thee!

Ten thousand angels would have sped

To rescue thee, but thou instead Didst pray: “Thy will, not mine be done,

Oh, God,” and thus a cross you won

A cross, a crown, a gaping crowd That mocked and taunted, jeering loud

Those pierced hands, a riven side Your pride—accursed of God to die!

But then for us you did arise

Returning home through heaven’s skies Thus as we wait our hearts do burn And long for Thee, thy soon return!

Carole M Swaim

The Depths of love I never knew the depts of love

Till I beheld they form Stretched out upon a rugged cross

Held by those nails, the crown of thorns…

Oh, King of kings, and Lord of Lords Who died to set me free

You died that I might live through Thee And share with thee—Eternity

You rose above to take your place

Of rule at God’s right hand From there you intercede for me

Blessed Savior, Mighty Lord and Man

Oh, loving Savior, perfect, pure The Son whom God did choose Exalted to thy Father’s throne Direct my soul’s flight home

Carole M Swaim

25

The Only Way Salvation’s in His Word; so

Says the Lord—in Christ I’ve heard, though This can’t possibly mean me!

I’ve been good and kind and giving Surely God will be forgiving

I’ll not face sin’s penalty

Besides… How can a God whose loving

Into Hell mankind be shoving? That’s old fashioned, out of date!

God “ignores” each fault, shortcoming As his children we’re becoming Better: Hell won’t be our fate

But wait!

God isn’t loving God is holy, just and loving All these attributes remain… Condone the sinner? Surely,

If God’s pure, he must act purely And sin He must restrain

The sinner will earn wages

God’s declared this through the ages Death—the wage for everyone…

But The penalty has been paid

On a cross where God Himself laid All our sin upon His Son

So, when God states: “Here’s the Savior,

In my Son rests all my favor, In this one I find delight

When God says, “MySon I’ve given That mankind might be forgiven”

Dare we say, “God’s wrong, we’re right?”

In Christ is God’s redemption Will you argue? Pay attention

Our ideas we can’t afford Taking man’s view of salvation

Over God’s (who made creation) Is for fools! For God is Lord!

May I offer: “God’s provision”?

Jesus Christ for your decision

26

Just one choice remains today Christ died and rose—is living

He’s the reason God’s forgiving Jesus Christ—God’s only way.

Carole M Swaim

The wonder of Prayer The Spirit of God sends His Word pure and clear

As our hearts yield to Christ, His blessed voice we shall hear Breath of God pouring forth ever softly and low

Can’st thou hear: You must listen in silence and awe

If the Lord rules our hearts, if His presence is real Then the Spirit will whisper His words in our ears

Blessed Spirit will speak, precious truth will unfold Words of majesty, wonder, glory untold

Holy Spirit doth lead—ever guiding our way

As we wait on the Lord Christ will teach us to pray In each heart dwells the Savior to utter our needs

Through groaning and striving His Spirit doth plead

Through the blood of the Lamb our salvation’s been wrought Now His Spirit doth teach us to pray as we ought

Oh, breath of God, move us—e’er guide by thy hand That the secret of prayer might be our’s to command

The secret of prayer—what a privilege we own

For joint-heirs with the Son, boldly kneel at his throne Blessed communion with Christ, precious fellowship dear

Can our hearts e’er retain all the love there revealed?

On our knees, in our prayers, every moment there spent With the Savior is priceless, we rest there content

How we cherish each moment, the fellowship sweet At the foot of the throne—at the Savior’s dear feet

As we kneel at His throne ever look to the face

Of the Christ who redeemed us, who saved us by grace Oh? Infinite Lord, richest blessings we share

As we bow in thy presence—oh, wonder of prayer!

Carole M Swaim

There is a country (Tune: There is a green hill)

There is a country far away Without much hope at all

27

As souls are dying every day The dreadful price of war

But God is True, He’s seen you through

You’re home—no more to roam Let’s praise the Lord with one accord

His mercies have followed you

In all the fighting, filth and dirt The Lord has been your guide

Through untold suffering, horror, hurt He’s e’er been at thy side

The Lord is True, He’s seen you through

You’re home—no more to roam Let’s praise the Lord with one accord

His mercies have followed you

In each new danger of that land You’ve never been alone

You’ve seen the mighty hand of One Who sits upon the throne

The Lord is True, He’s seen you through

You’re home—no more to roam Let’s praise the Lord with one accord

His mercies have followed you.

Carole M Swaim

To Thee Oh Lord Oh, Christ, my life from here on in I yield to thee, my Lord, my king You gave your all that I might be

A child of God, joint-heir with Thee I thank thee for this priceless gift

The wonder of eternal bliss The matchless beauty of thy grace

The hope that soon I’ll see your face And touch the nail-pierced hands…

Oh, Lord, Thy love is far too grand

For such as I to comprehend Thy blessed redemption-perfect, pure

And great salvation-priceless, sure Oh, Lord, within my heart there flows

Such gratitude-thou only knows

My Lord, I pray thee, help me grow From grace to grace, thyself to know

28

Behold, I long to know thee, Lord To yield my love, my soul, my all

Put rest and peace down in my heart Thy joy and gladness e’er impart Oh, mold me, Lord, that I may be

A blessed too to bring to Thee Some sould that knows thee not….

Carole M Swaim

When I see Christ When I see Christ my Lord, how will I respond? Will I truly rejoice, will my heart ring in song?

Will my eyes light with gladness in purest delight As I look in the face of my glorified Christ?

When I look in His eyes, will my heart fill with praise

Flooding all of my being, my soul set ablaze? Will this heart sour in rapture in unconstrained love

As I see Christ my Savior, my Lord from above?

Or… Will I be ashamed when I look on His face

Full knowing how often this world took His place You I loved Christ my Lord, but the world crept between

And my love was divided on this earthly scene

Being tied to myself—utter selfishness sin! With such love of the flesh how can Christ rule within?

All to Him must be yielded completely and whole Till the heart, mind and soul rest beneath His control

Either servant of God or a servant of sin…

Saith my heart, “Who’s my master, who’s ruling within?” Christ won’t share us; He calls us to be His alone Yea, to give all to Him, called to seek Him alone

Ever dying to self, ever turning the heart

We must turn to the One who has set us apart Through Whom we’re translated from darkness and night

To the glories of Heaven eternal and bright

Carole M Swaim

Whom do you trust? Is your faith in the Lord? Are you trusting God’s Son?

Or depending on Self—the good works that you’ve done? Will you enter God’s Rest, is your mansion prepared?

Or do doubts cross your mind—are you sure you’ll be there?

29

Are you trusting the Savior, believing the Lord? If not, you’re condemned—it’s proclaimed in His Word

Not a doubt, it’s so clear—Jesus Christ offers life Offers glory, salvation, redemption so bright

If God is your Savior, If Christ is your Lord

Then rest on His promise, depend on His Word He assures us of life if we trust Christ alone

For our Savior’s the way to the Father and home

Yes, Christ is the way, not our self-righteous deeds, He alone paid the price, He alone intercedes

All our works, every deed, are but rags in His sight Filthy sinners, condemned, till in Christ we’re made right

Till the Lord makes us right—then we’re perfect and pure

Accepted by God, ‘tis in Him we’re secure When clothed with His righteousness, freely bestowed

God sees us through Christ fully justified, whole

Full justified, whole—what salvation, what grace As God sees us through Christ, only then are we safe

Won’t you trust Him just now, let Him enter your heart— To abide there forever, rich grace to impart?

Carole M Swaim

Wonder of the Ages The Lord of Glory “stole” to earth one dark and quiet night

In peaceful silence, unobserved, appeared the Christ of Might No welcome mat awaited when He stooped to enter time

And undertook His might work—redemption’s great design

How silently God entered as the world in darkness slept To take the form of sinful man—His birth none will forget… Oh, wonder of the ages when the Word made flesh was born,

And God’s Glory dwelt among us, tender love to all made known.

Yes, Almighty God stooped down in love—He came unto His own The perfect Babe, and infant pure, all God’s perfection shown This Blessed Son, God’s gift to all, in love forsook His throne

To come to Earth, oh glorious birth, to lead us home sweet home!

His life did shine, t’was perfect, pure—in Him there was no sin Our God’s delight was in the Son who yielded all to Him

Harkening to the Father’s voice, obedient, undefiled, God’s will was meat, His one desire—God’s name to glorify!

Yes, truly Lord and truly man, t’was God’s perfection seen On earth the Lord of Glory dwelt, a lost world to redeem

30

To save a stricken world from sin, He died on Calvary’s cross, And offered everlasting life to all who simply trust…

Yes, simply trust, the work is done—t’was finished long ago Now life awaits for all who come—who enter by the Door

God loves each soul, each helpless child, and in His love sets forth Redemption’s plan, eternal life—the Door is Christ the Lord!

Carole M Swaim

Wondrous, glorious Morn The glory of that Easter morn when from the grave there rose

Our living Christ, the mighty God, victorious o’er his foes For three sad days he lay in death our sin to put away

Then God was pleased to raise Him up—glad Resurrrection day!

Triumphant o’er the gates of Hell this wondrous, glorious morn The Son of God, the Risen Christ, our sins no longer borne

The bars of Hell he’s thrown aside, its power overcome No lurking fear of death beyond, eternity’s been won

True word of life is Christ alone, by His all things were formed—

He spoke, the worlds were fashioned, to God’s Image man conformed But men transgressed, they turned from God, their sin didst form a wall

Communion with the Lord then blocked—‘twas severed by the Fall

Still God looked down in matchless grace, He loved us in our sin This love reached out to move our hearts to turn us back to Him His mighty arm stretched forth, He longed to draw us to the fold

Pure life for all the Shepherd gave to save a stricken world

The sting of death—the stab of sin—no longer grips my soul For I’ve been ransomed by the Son who lives forevermore

My heart’s secure within His hand, to him my soul doth cling— He lives, He saves, He keeps, He holds—all glory to my king

The Lamb of God be glorified, excited now is He

Ascended to the Father’s throne, e’er reigning Prince of Peace All hail to Thee, my precious Lord, my soul with joy doth sing—

He lives, He lives eternally, My risen Lord and king!

Carole M Swaim

Words of thanks Dear Lord,

Where are words of thanks for wondrous love that holds me firm,

For paths of joy you’ve shown me leading straight for heaven’s realm For sweet peace that passeth knowledge deep within my heart enthroned

For the hope of eternal life found in Jesus Christ alone?

No words can e’er express my thanks for all Christ came to bear

For the heartache, pain, and sorrow of the cross—love nailed Him there Through death God won the victory, paid the price for sin’s dark stain

Yes, in death He offers life to me—oh, praise His glorious Name!

Mere words are poor, they can’t express my heartfilled thanks to Thee When I think of gracious blessings, tumbling down so rich and free

When I think of golden Truth so pure, its warmth pours from on high And drink in thy tender mercies, precious dewdrops from the sky!

Yes, my heart goes out to Thee, oh Lord, I look to thy sweet face And behold the wondrous glory of the One my heart embraced

Yes, the Lily of the valley won my heart—to Him I sing Reigning Prince He dwells within me—laud and praise my matchless king!

Carole M Swaim

Poems by Mark A Swaim

Calvary

The mountain of Calvary I now stand and face To see God’s Lamb who died in my place The heir of all glory the Lord Jesus Christ Bowed low His head and gave up his life

The sorrow of Calvary flowed from His heart He felt anguish and grief so sin may depart

He spanned the vast distance, shed his own blood Forgave all my sin, declared his deep love

The darkness of Calvary glooms over my head

The light was extinguished His crimson blood shed His body lay broken, the tears filled the eye

As the blackness of sin caused God’s Son to die

The wonder of Calvary is seen in the one Who saved me from sin Who made me His son

Mark A Swaim

31

32

1990

He Goes Before "If your presence goes not with us, carry us not from hence"

Exodus 33:15

He goes before me, leads through day In clouds of smoke He knows the way

Through wilderness fears and desert foes The Shepherd guides, Jehovah knows

He goes before me leads through night

In flaming fire the way He lights Up hills of doubt, down valleys of fear

His presence goes with me, Jehovah draws near

He goes before me to the Cross The curse of sin for me He fought

The Wrath of God the Son did bare That I might in His glories share

He goes before me by my side

Hand in hand in Him I hide And when the tears of grief doth flow My Savior loves, my pain He knows

He goes before me, leads and cares

Carries all I cannot bare Tired and weary His path I trace He brings me to His resting place

He goes before me, seeks my best

I'll trust in Him in every test And though the trials may wound my frame

I'll trust the One whose presence remains

He goes before me so I may know That where He leads I'm safe to go

Come mountain, valley, hill or plain My Guide will lead me all the same.

Mark A Swaim

8/24/89

See One Dying See One dying on a tree

I see Him smitten there for me Heaven’s splendor He once knew

33

A crown He wore as Him I slew

Exalted, extolled and very high? But oh He bowed in shame to die

And by His dying I can see His death has pardoned one like me

A name above all names to bless On Him is glory as He now rests

Can one in whom great sin does lie Dare to Him in faith draw nigh?

His love He gave, His cross He bore My life I give, and Honor more

Mark A Swaim

10/30/88

Trusting God “Trust in the Lord will all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.

In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6

Trusting God? May it be so

When all life’s ebb and billows flow When I can’t see my future near Oh may I trust Him without fear

With all my heart? You know my pain The sorrows that drove away your name My heart cries out please hold my hand

Lead me to the promised land

My own understanding? What can I say? By on my knees I bow to pray To yield to you my inner parts

To trust the Lord will all my heart

In all my ways acknowledge thee? Oh blest Redeemer may this be

What better way my faith to show Remembering thee and trusting so

A straight path? Thou hast promised so But simply trusting? Tis hard you know

So on this lonely path I be In all my ways remembering thee

Mark A Swaim

5/30/89

Poems by David G. Swaim Jr.

A Garden A Garden is a very special place

A realm of delight and refreshment It is still a place whose charm defies the business of life

In a garden one can hear his still small voice walking in the cool of the day And go from strength to strength

A Garden is like a child

A thing full of life and color A labor that never ends but matures from year to year

By each seasonal mark left for which you can take credit with pride and joy A Garden grows with time, outliving it’s creator, charming generations that will follow

A Garden is a signature for all to read but understood by few

Silently those who understand keep their gardens too It’s message comes from the living that is sacrificed in its creation and the pleasure which drives its creator

So every garden tells a story of the gardener who has been there to those who would contemplate its message

David Swaim Jr

9/94

The Grace of God hath set me free High above in glory seated is the man enthroned by God Every knee to Him shall bow, gaze upon His glory brow!

He the one who left his splendor, died to save our ruined race Suffered untold deepest judgement that we might know unmeasured grace!

Grace so freely lavished on me, love deeper than the deepest sea

Calvary alone can measure all that Christ has done for me Darkest sin forever banished, invited to his glorious land

He the author of such wonder, there shall lead me with His hand

In His resurrected body, all is mine forever mine He who spared not his own Son hath freely given all to me

I rejoice in all his goodness as the object of his grace

34

35

For no more could he have given; the trophy of his highest praise!

Thou Christ art He who shall be praised! But how shall the ages thus contain The worship that thy name obtained, on earth in flesh by many unseen?

Yet in the glory we shall see unfolding riches of thy grace and Sing anew the song of songs, the grace of God hath set me free!

David G Swaim Jr Aug 4, 1991