Francy's New Morning

BORN TO US by Frances Judge So simple to love The swaddled infant in my arms with his baby breath, a whisper of wind, warming my skin; the echo of angels’ praise Beating my heart in the stillness of the night. So simple to love The toddler teetering on wobbly toes, falling into my embrace, I could hold forever. A divine gift, the joy of my soul, to be shared. Golden leaves release their grip; a determined breeze lays the pile on prickly grass at His feet, prepared for sacrificial love. So simple to love the one we named Jesus. I try to shield my young son from the rain but cannot. It is persistent, planned. And he grows; Angels breathed the Father’s blessing long ago; Hidden behind hazel eyes, my son’s mind holds the universe; in time to be revealed, a promise from the first birth, my womb was blessed to carry. So simple to love the one who is love Bare branches point bony fingers, catching snowflakes,  the b...

  FROM THE BRANCHES By Frances Judge Memories dangle from the branches of our decked-out tree; gold bead garland snakes around treasures hung haphazardly— Backwards and tangled Popsicle stick squares, sprinkled with glitter, frame silly boy smiles, laughter I could hold forever, blessings worth tears and trials, And whispered prayers Some decorations span three generations; one Wise Man persevered; though his orange robe tattered, his gift will still be revered— Calls for celebration Ruby ballet shoes, trimmed with gold ribbon from the year of pink lace; Crystal girl angels declare the great gift of God’s grace. Share the good news Displayed at the core, a special glass ball, painted a violet night; Messiah sleeps in a stable, cradled beneath divine light. “O come let us adore…” Memories transcend time, from the branches of our love-filled veins, displa...

UNWRAPPING LOVE By Frances Judge If love were wrapped in golden paper, tied with silken strings, It couldn’t reach around the world Or open up its wings. Love isn’t placed on pedestals, positioned for display; It needs the flexibility Of a potter’s clay. Love doesn’t need embellishment to prove its fortitude; Its strength is in its meekness And forgiving attitude. Love risks its life and swims the depths to save a drowning friend, But Christ risked all for enemies, And who can comprehend? So love was wrapped in swaddling clothes and destined once to die; Christ would pay the sacrifice, God’s love, exemplified. He didn’t wear His royal robes though he was born a king; He wore the love His Father gave Of which the angels sing. Love doesn’t wait for storms to stop to cross the swirling seas; Jesus walked across the water, Turned tempest into breeze. Love washes feet, love heals the blind, lov...

THE INVITATION By Frances Judge Come follow me to the river of life, Where I wash away sorrow and pain. The paths might be winding, the mountains too steep, But I’ll carry you through rough terrain. Child don’t fear the swells of the ocean, Or the trials that burden your soul. My arms are outstretched and willing to save you From winds that you cannot control. Come follow me as shepherds and wise men Who followed without hesitation. They gazed at the star in wonder and awe At the divine invitation. Come as you are to the table of grace                   Where forgiveness and joy are provided.                   Before heaven’s time, the plan was in place To redeem the lost souls and misguided. Come follow me to the whispering sea; H...