Category: MODERN-DAY PSALMS

Provides background and works featured in the classic book from Richard. Vincent. Rose., Modern Day Psalms.

Posted in HEROES OF THE FAITH, MODERN-DAY PSALMS, QUOTES FOR ALL

From “Modern-Day Psalms”: “Lord, I Want to Thank You for a Mama That Prayed”

Posted on by pastorappreciationblog

Lord, I Want to Thank You for a Mama That Prayed
Introduction

It took me several years to finish this, though the title rang like a chorus through my mind for all of those years. This is a completely true story in song. Mama never wished fame for us; only that we would serve God with our lives.

I added many of the things she would say, including things like “Honor Him and He will honor you,” which, all through my grown-up years, she would encourage me with. This saying made such a strong, lasting impact on me that our first online business, Pastor Appreciation Gifts, which sprang from “Why, Pastor, Why,” used “To Honor Those Who Honor Him” as part of our company logo.

Of all that I’ve written to honor my mother (and, by so doing, honoring all Godly mothers), this is one of my favorites, because it is so true, and the words really tell the story. Mama had four boys, so she spent a lot of time on her knees. I also included a favorite reference to Psalms, which was her favorite book. The phrase “The Lord is my Shepherd, trust Him today” is such a part of her, that I also included it in the special “Mama Version” of “Don’t Weep for Me.”

When I present this to a church audience, I always add, “How many of us are here today because of a Mama who prayed? And, would not stop praying for us?”

“The first gift, and the best gift that God gives a child is a loving, Godly mother. The first view of Jesus that a child receives is through her loving care.”

“The first time I ever saw, felt, or heard Jesus, was in your eyes, in your arms, and in your voice.”
R.V.R.

Lord, I Want to Thank You for a Mama That Prayed

Lord, I want to thank you
For a Mama that prayed
And from your path
She never strayed
Lord, I want to thank you
For a Mama that prayed
No matter how tough the times got
From your path
She never strayed

Lord, times were tough
And the days were long
But Mama wore a smile
As she taught us this song

“Honor God and He will honor you
Trust in God because His Word is true
You’ll have a home in Glory
And with Him you’ll stay
The Lord is my Shepherd
Trust Him today”

She prayed not for riches,
Nor diamonds, or gold
All the time
Laying up treasures untold

For all of her children
She prayed not for wealth or for fame
But that each one of us
Would just honor His name

“Honor God and He will honor you
Trust in God because His Word is true
You’ll have a home in Glory
And with Him you’ll stay
The Lord is my Shepherd
Trust Him today”
She never turned her back on God
The Bible, or on me
I first learned about Jesus
While I was at her knee

And all of the times from his Word I would stray
I didn’t know why God would keep me this way
God honored His Word, and kept me alive each new day
All because on her knees she would stay
My life kept on because of a Mama that prayed

She was small in stature
Sometimes weak, sometimes frail
But, she prayed to a God
She knew would not fail
I look back now, and see her bended knee
Praying for me, taller than any tree

“Honor God and He will honor you
Trust in God because His Word is true
You’ll have a home in Glory
And with Him you’ll stay
The Lord is my Shepherd
Trust Him today”

There are so many millions
Who are in Heaven today
Who would not be there
If not for Jesus
And a mother who prayed

So, let’s all stand
Those of you, here today,
Who would not be here,
If not for a mother who prayed

“Honor God and He will honor you
Trust in God because His Word is true
You’ll have a home in Glory
And with Him you’ll stay
The Lord is my Shepherd
Trust Him today”

And, when I get to Heaven
His face I shall see
I’ll look into His eyes
And thank Him for the one who prayed for me

Lord, I want to thank you
For a Mama that prayed
And from your path
She never strayed
Lord, I want to thank you
For a Mama that prayed
No matter how tough the times got
From your path
She never strayed

“Honor God and He will honor you
Trust in God because His Word is true
You’ll have a home in Glory
And with Him you’ll stay
The Lord is my Shepherd
Trust Him today”

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Posted in MODERN-DAY PSALMS

Modern-Day Psalms: “Early” Reviews

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We have been so blessed by the positive response we’ve received from our new book, Modern-Day Psalms: Praise Songs and Love Messages. It is amazing to hear how the words have deeply affected the readers, which is exactly God’s intention for the book. I have been honored to have heard from many people who have, very early in the reading of the book, contacted me to share how the book has touched them. I wanted to share a couple of examples:

Over the weekend, and please understand the sentiment, I received a telephone call from a beloved relative who had started reading the book, and, as soon as Carol handed me the phone, her first words were, “How in the #@*# did you write all this?” At the first sentence, I was expecting to be chastised … severely … but, what she meant was that the book had already touched her, reached her in a way that words can’t explain. My explanation is always the same … as I explain in the book … that God was the writer … I only held the pen. God still has the ability to speak through words, and touch us in a way which “words” can’t.

Last week, I heard from a newspaper reporter/writer, who had received a copy of the book, and was contacting me to set up for an interview. She had read only the first chapter (poem), and she was brought to tears. I can honestly say that, and God deserves all of the praise, that I do hear that a lot. And, not tears in a bad way. Just today, I heard from another reader, who, asked me if she could send this same, first poem, to a friend of hers … to minister to her … as this friend of hers was struggling through the same issue which the poem was meant to address, and minister to. She said that the poem was like it was written just for her. She told me that her friend had been going through anguish and pain over a particular situation for many, many years. This reader was going to type the words of the poem, and then send them to her friend. She wanted to check with me first, to make sure that was ok with me. I will be emailing her a copy of the poem, to send to her friend. I will send my prayers along with it.

Also today, and I mean this in a good way, I heard from another reader who told me that she had to, in trying to read some of the poems, stop, and close the book … then open the book back up, and try to read something else. Then, she would have to stop, go to another page, as she couldn’t finish that one, either. Apparently, the words had touched her heart so deeply, had stirred up emotions which, at the moment, were so intense, perhaps so painful, she couldn’t deal with. At least, not now. I pray this reader will open the book back up, and allow the words to do what they were written for. To comfort, console, and encourage her. To hear from someone who has “been there,” and God brought out. Brought out for the purpose of “going back in” and helping others “out.” This particular reader was looking for something special she could share with someone who was special to her. Keep in mind that a part of the “Love Messages” in the book make it clear that it’s ok to love Jesus … to love your wife/spouse … and, to love your family. And, it’s ok to show them. So, even though many of the “Love Songs” are metaphoric in nature (symbolizing Christ’s love for us and vice-versa), they are still written in a style which can be shared with others. So, I am sending her a copy of just that one Love Poem for her to share.

One of the unique aspects of the book is that I provide an introduction to each one of the works. It explains how or why (or both) that particular poem was written. The story behind it. My intention was that these short introductions would bless and minister to people, as well as the work itself. Again, part of the “messages” within the book. The publishing world thinks that it is a bad idea to introduce a poem. I don’t think it’s a bad idea, and I’m just following the instructions I received about how to lay the book out.

Anyway, I am so blessed by the response to these introductions. So far, everyone who has said anything about the book, always mentions the introductions, and what they have received from them. So, God was right again!

As we go along, we’ll share more about the book. My intention at the beginning was to only mention that we are now offering the book on Pastor Appreciation Gifts, both personalized and signed … just to make that announcement, as we’ve had questions about when that would happen. But, I think the most important thing about the book will always be how the book ministers to, how it affects, how it touches the deepest human emotions … that these are truly living words, meant to do exactly what they are doing.

I praise God for that, for allowing me to hold the pen, and be a part of something so special …

Below, I am placing a link to the “Modern-Day Psalms” Book page over at Pastor Appreciation Gifts. Please note that the book, both hard cover and paperback, is being offered at as close to the online retailers’ price as possible. But, Pastor Appreciation Gifts is the only place where the book is being offered both personalized and signed.
On the page are links to take you to more information about the book (I will be including part of this blog post as well), including a “Table of Contents” listing for you, and other information pertaining to the book.

You can also order (from the Publisher) the book in eBook format, available in whichever format you have). There is a link on the book page for the eBook, as well.

Thank you again for your kind words and thoughts.
Blessings to you, and your family,
Richard. Vincent. Rose.
Link to Pastor Appreciation Gifts: Modern-Day Psalms Book Page

Posted in HEROES OF THE FAITH, HOLIDAYS, MODERN-DAY PSALMS, QUOTES FOR ALL

From “Modern-Day Psalms”: “Don’t Weep For Me (Mama Version)”

Posted on by pastorappreciationblog

When I read “Don’t Weep for Me” at a memorial service, I always change the paragraph about military service, to fit the life of the one to whom the service is being given for, always leaving the “bosom of Abraham” reference to close that personalized paragraph.

When my beloved Mother went to be with Jesus, it was early on Valentine’s Day … February 14, 2013. During the period of mourning that followed, I wanted to re-write “Don’t Weep for Me” in honor of Mama.

I went in and added words that detailed what she most loved in her life: Jesus, and her family. Mama loved the Psalms; it was her favorite book. I also could not leave out the fact that, when Jesus came and got her, it was Valentine’s Day.

Something else about Valentine’s Day: February 14th is also my mother-in-law’s birthday, who passed away on Good Friday, in 2003. Let’s just say that neither of those days will ever be the same again.

Please allow me to comfort and encourage you with these words:
As a parent, when it comes to your children, there are three things you most worry about when they are away from the house, gone with friends, etc. These would be:
1. Where they are.
2. Who they are with.
3. When will you see them again?

Now, as a loving son … when Mama left us … so much of the pain and agony was taken away, because:
1. I knew where she was.
2. I knew who she was with.
3. I knew that I would see her again.

Don’t Weep For Me
Mama Version

Don’t weep for me
If you could see
What I now see
You would not weep … you would shout “Victory!”

I know that only sadness now you feel
But, you need to know that Heaven is real
If you could only see the streets of gold, the pearly gate
You would not cry, you might even envy my fate

The skies are always sunny, bathed in God’s own light
There is no more rain, no clouds, and no more night
I’ve left behind sickness, heartache, and pain
No more tears, broken dreams; for now, all is gain

For, here, there is no more sorrow, poverty, or lack
I can tell you now-I don’t ever want to go back
Back to the earth, and the trials every day …
No, I’ll take Jesus, and peace … right here I will stay

Don’t weep for me now
You don’t know what you do!
Don’t wish I was there
For if you only knew!

On Thursday, February 14th, at 2:45
It was not that I died, I became alive
I have no more sickness, no more pain
There will be no more clouds, no thunder, no rain

It was no coincidence
That it was Valentine’s Day
When the One I most loved took me away
Waiting for you
Here I will stay
The Lord is my Shepherd-Trust Him today
 
I fought the good fight
The good race I ran
And now I’ve landed safely
In the bosom of Abraham

For, here in eternity I will forever rest
And walk down these streets with the one called “Blessed”
For I have reached my eternal reward
With the chorus of saints I join in one accord

I don’t have time now to shed just one tear
I can only hope that one day, you too, will be here
My body I’ve left, but why should you grieve?
I’ve traded it all for this new body I’ve received

I’m singing right now, and laughing out loud
If you could see me right now, I know you’d be proud
I trusted in Jesus, and Jesus alone
I traded my hospital bed to sit on God’s throne

There should be only one reason for you all to cry
And that is to not know where you’ll go when you die
For one day you’ll die and you’ll be right here
But, if you’ve trusted in Jesus, you’ll have nothing to fear

I’ll wait, and I’ll wait for you to decide
If you don’t trust Jesus, then I’ll be the one who cried

So, don’t weep for me
You know the gospel is true
Follow its course
Lest, from above, I weep for you

So, just remember, if you start to cry
Instead, just look up at that big, blue sky
I’m looking down to tell you again, just like days gone by,
That “God loves you … and … so do I …”
Richard. Vincent. Rose.

Posted in MODERN-DAY PSALMS, QUOTES FOR ALL

Modern-Day Psalm Classic: “I Stopped by Your Place for Christmas”

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I Stopped by Your Place for Christmas

Introduction

I still remember my tears falling on the paper as I wrote, “I stopped by your place for Christmas, the place where you always stay …”
Written on the hood of my van, on a torn-apart bank deposit slip, under a huge maple tree just a few feet away from the grave site of Carol’s parents, just hours before a winter storm would cover the ground for months.

I Stopped by Your Place for Christmas

It was one week before Christmas
Exactly, to the day
I stopped by your place
The place where you always stay

The sun was so bright
The sky was so blue
As I stood there and cried
As I stood between you two

The day was so bright
Not a cloud in the skies
As the sunlight glistened
Off the tears in my eyes

I came by your place
To tidy up a bit
Ready to work
All I could do was just sit

I came with some tools
To work on the flowers
Today may be sunny
But tomorrow night, snow showers

It made me think how fast
Life changes from day to day
One Christmas you’re here
The next, you’re gone away

Gone to a place
We’ll all go some day
It made me wonder if people would visit my place
Or would they stay away

As I stood and pondered
Your rose-colored stone
In the midst of a field of monuments
To loved ones now gone

I loved you both and miss you so dear
Another Christmas will come, that I wish you were here
I’ll remember that Christmas was your favorite time of year

I thank God for the memories
Of holidays spent
All of us together
I wonder, where has the time went?

I know that one day
We may
Move away
Where ever we go
It is here you must stay

You’ll both always be part of our Christmas
We’ll remember the love and joy on your faces
And know you’ll always be together with us
We’ll just spend Christmas in different places

Richard. Vincent. Rose.

“I Stopped by Your Place for Christmas,” one of the classics from “Modern-Day Psalms: Praise Songs and Love Messages for your Heart and Soul,
from the Heart and Soul of Richard. Vincent. Rose.
Modern-Day Psalms on Amazon.com

Posted in MINISTRIES WE SUPPORT, MODERN-DAY PSALMS

Richard. Vincent. Rose.: Finally … Our New Book Published and Available Now!

Posted on by pastorappreciationblog

We can finally announce that our new book, “Modern-Day Psalms: Praise Songs and Love Messages” is now available!!!
We just got the official word from our publisher that “Modern-Day Psalms” is now available online, and at booksellers everywhere!
It is an honor and privilege to make this first announcement that our new book is ready …
Book CoverWe wanted to make the very first public announcement, in advance of any press coverage and marketing efforts, only to our friends who have been so faithful and supportive of our writing and business efforts through the years. So, for you, our visitors and friends at Pastor Appreciation Gifts, our Pastor Appreciation Blog and Facebook ministries, as well as Our YouTube Channel this is the first announcement that the book is finally ready.
Hard Back CoverWe made the decision to go with an independent publisher, so that we could maintain all artistic control. I think we made the right decision, and chose iUniverse Publishing, because of their experience and reach into the global marketplace.

The full title is “Modern Day Psalms: Praise Songs and Love Messages For Your Heart and Soul From the Heart and Soul of Richard. Vincent. Rose.”
Paperback CoverFor several years, I have had the distinct privilege and honor to be allowed to share many of my poems, works, and thoughts with dear friends all over the world. This is the first opportunity to put many of the favorites, most requested, and new works, into a single volume. My prayer is that you will be encouraged, inspired, edified, comforted, and blessed as you read, and allow your very soul to absorb the words.

Here are a couple of notes from the book:
Now, for the first time in one complete volume, all of the classic works, together with new inspired writings, become available to impact a whole new audience of hearts, minds, and souls. Read about great tragedy and loss leading to even greater joy, as someone who has been there and was led out, “goes back in” to help, encourage, and lead others out.
“I had no way of knowing at the time, that what I thought was the worst thing to have ever happened to me, turned out to be the best thing  that ever happened to me. I don’t write about tragedy or loss … I write about comfort, victory, and great gain.”
Richard.Vincent.Rose.

It is our distinct honor to introduce you to Modern-Day Psalms, “A timeless collection of living words, composed of poetry and life-changing messages, which will encourage, inspire, console, and reach the depth of your heart and soul.”

Here are a couple of direct links to the book:
First, here is the link to go directly to our publisher, where the book is available in Paperback, Hard Cover with Dust Jacket, and also available in eBook format, which will allow you to download the book in multiple formats, including Kindle and PDF:

Modern-Day Psalms at iUniverse Publishing: Click Image:
Paperback Book Cover
Now, here is the link to Amazon: 

Modern-Day Psalms at Amazon: Click Image:
Amazon Look Inside Again, for those who have been asking for the Ebook, it is now available directly from our Publisher.

We also encourage you to review the book, and add you review and comments as you enjoy the book!

Please be blessed and encouraged and “Be prepared to read-and feel-living words, able to penetrate your deepest emotions, reaching into your heart and soul, as the writing of Richard. Vincent. Rose. leaps from the pages, bringing hope, joy, encouragement, comfort, and inspiration into every area of your life!”

It is such a joy to be able to make this special announcement, fittingly made on this, Thanksgiving Day.

Blessings to you, and your family,
Ted, Carol, and
Richard. Vincent. Rose. 

Posted in I REMEMBER, MODERN-DAY PSALMS, THE PRICE FOR FREEDOM

It’s Time, Again: Richard.Vincent.Rose.: “THE EAGLE STILL FLIES (UNDER STAR SPANGLED SKIES) A NEW ANTHEM FOR AMERICA

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We want to share with you “The Eagle Still Flies (Under Star Spangled Skies),” A New Anthem For America, which was written as a Memorial after the events of September 11, 2001.
Now, even though it is years later, recent events remind us of how precious our liberty and freedom are, and how much what really makes America … hasn’t changed.
I agree with a statement the President made during a memorial service, at a church in Boston, last week. He talked about how there is a little bit of Boston in all of us. We love Boston, too, and I don’t know anyone who has visited the city, ever, who doesn’t love “the city.”
The cradle of liberty will continue to “Rock ‘on.”
And … The Eagle Still Flies …

We’ll give you a reprinted story about the poem/anthem, and then encourage you to enjoy, and feel, “The Eagle Still Flies (Under Star Spangled Skies)-A New Anthem For America:

Note: The following is reprinted with permission:

To explain why he wrote “The Eagle Still Flies (Under Star Spangled Skies),” and the real purpose behind the poem, here are the words of Richard.Vincent.Rose.:

“All Americans were deeply affected by the events of September 11, 2001. We celebrate the efforts of a nation that is not joined because of the event, but a nation that was joined before the event. We commemorate, remind, honor, and celebrate all that this nation represents-before, during, and after the events of September 11. The true heroes and hope of America-who came to the forefront before that day, on that day, and on each day thereafter.

This poem is very personal, for I love New York, and I love America. I can’t envision one without the other. The city, like the country, is not comprised of boroughs, but brothers. We wish to pay special honor to the men and women who are proudly serving America in the Armed Services, and offer this poem to bring hope, comfort, and pride to all Americans. Everywhere.

Daniel Webster said that, ‘God grants liberty only to those who love it, and are always ready to guard and defend it.’ And, before him, it was Thomas Paine who said, ‘The cause of America is, in a great measure, the cause of all mankind. Had it not been for America, there had been no such thing as freedom left in the whole universe.'”

In a statement made to The National September 11 Memorial & Museum At The World Trade Center, Richard.Vincent.Rose. wrote:
“I applaud the efforts to build the Memorial, and in joining all Americans together in the cause, knowing that it will take a national labor to give birth to such a noble child.”

THE EAGLE STILL FLIES (UNDER STAR SPANGLED SKIES)
 
A NEW ANTHEM FOR AMERICA

The sun came up this morning
Over a land still brave and free
Its borders still strong and standing
Against all tyranny
It seems just yesterday-I remember so well
As the morning dew slept on the towers that fell
The skies were so clear, the sunlight so bright
But evil’s conscience couldn’t sleep
And was awake through the night

And everyone can recall when they first heard the news
And no one was sure how much more we would lose
Then, through the ashes, the smoke, and the flame
We realized this country would never be the same

The towers left standing
Are the towers within
The twin towers of liberty and freedom, my friend
Perched on top of these towers, the eagle will rise
To bring peace and justice to the world’s crying eyes

And the eagle still flies
Under star spangled skies
And we still trust in God
But we won’t spare the rod
And we still say the pledge
Faith and courage
Give us the edge
And the eagle will soar
‘Cause we’re free evermore
From the hills to the shore
Yes! We’re free evermore

The eagle still flies under star spangled skies
And our hope never dies
‘Cause the eagle still flies
 

Nations will rise
Buildings will fall
But there’s still one nation standing
That will answer the call
And we won’t run and hide
In our flag we still take pride
‘Cause freedom will win
Liberty we’ll defend
Through the smoke, through the fire
The wings of justice fly higher
Over canyon and tundra and treetops and sand
The fires of freedom’s victory have been fanned

From the streets on our soil
To lands across the sea
On freedom’s wings we will ride
For the whole world to see
The strength, the power, of liberty

And the eagle still flies
Under star spangled skies
And we still trust in God
But we won’t spare the rod
And we still say the pledge
Faith and courage give us the edge
And the eagle will soar
‘Cause we’re free evermore
From the hills to the shore
Yes! We’re free evermore

The eagle still flies
Under star spangled skies
And our hope never dies
‘Cause the eagle still flies

Richard.Vincent.Rose.

Posted in HEROES OF THE FAITH, MODERN-DAY PSALMS

From Richard.Vincent.Rose.: The Story Behind “Why, Pastor, Why”

Posted on by pastorappreciationblog

“WHY, PASTOR, WHY™” is a poem specifically purposed to uplift and encourage Pastors.

While it is written to show love and appreciation, it also answers the basic question every Pastor must address- both in times of joy and in those moments of despair and discouragement: “Why has God chosen me for this office?”
Many times, I have heard the startling statistics of the number of Pastors who are leaving the ministry. We as Christians can forget how we were before the Lord “called us out,” how much He has done for us, and how many lives we have affected through our faith. How much greater the burden must be for these men and women who devote their lives to the Gospel. They must “keep on keeping on!” Not just for themselves, but for the lives they touch. The call is not just for them, but for their flock.
I firmly believe that God wishes to give this message of encouragement to all pastors, and their congregations, world-wide.

It was a Sunday night in April, 1997, during the Sunday night service. From my perch inside the sound booth, I listened intently to yet another spirit-filled, power-filled message from my pastor, “Pastor Dan.”
As Pastor Dan delivered these sermons, entire congregations were constantly held in awe as the words seemed to flow from the very heart of God. Gazing down from the sound board, I heard Pastor Dan discuss the awesome grace, and mercy, of God, as the Pastor humbly shared how he did not know, nor could even understand, how God could reach down and save him from Hell, after all he had done in his life. Why, Pastor Dan confessed, he did not even deserve to carry water into the sanctuary, to even be a water boy for the church. No, Pastor Dan could not understand why God loved him so much, and then to allow him to serve as Pastor, was even further beyond his comprehension.

Later that night, after returning home, I pondered Pastor Dan’s questions about “Why?” Then, the Lord spoke to me, and told me “Why.” Jesus answered the Pastor’s questions, clearly writing them on my heart. The words came as fast as I could hastily scribble this direct revelation, on a yellow legal pad, as I sat at the dining room table.
It took me 10-15 minutes to write “Why, Pastor, Why,” as the words just flowed from my pen as fast as I could write.
I also realized, as I looked at the written words, that what God had revealed to me about my Pastor … the same statement should be made about every Pastor-yours and mine. He further revealed that His answer applied not only to Pastor Dan, but to all Pastors. Then, He directed me to reach all Pastors with this simple message.
If they truly are searching for the very heart of God, then they should also know, “Why, Pastor, Why.”

Allow me to close with this note: When I was given the poem, I didn’t even have a typewriter; I had to borrow one from a church family. I didn’t have a computer, so I had to make copies at the church.
When I wrote the poem, God made very specific promises to me about the poem. I mention this to make the point that God is faithful to His promises.
It is ok to remind God of His promises! It is not Him that will ever forget: You should remind God of His promises so that YOU won’t forget!
And, I can relate so much to Pastor Dan’s questions about “Why.” Here’s how:
How could God allow me … yes, me … to encourage and minister to Pastors?
God’s grace, and mercy, is limitless.

Blessings to you, your family, and your Pastor,
Richard.Vincent.Rose.

Now that you’ve read the story behind the poem, here’s another look at the art detail of “Why, Pastor, Why”

Why Pastor Why

WHY, PASTOR, WHY™  exclusively available from
Pastor Appreciation Gifts

 

Posted in HEROES OF THE FAITH, MODERN-DAY PSALMS, PASTOR APPRECIATION GIFTS

It Begins: The Writings of Richard.Vincent.Rose.: “Why, Pastor, Why”

Posted on by pastorappreciationblog

We are beginning what will become a regular feature of our Blog, featuring the writings of Richard.Vincent.Rose.
As time goes by, we’ll also reveal the stories of how each individual poem or story came into being, “the story behind the story.”

Of course, we must begin with “Why, Pastor, Why,” which was the foundation of our Pastor Appreciation Gifts online store, and, most certainly, this blog which followed.
The best way to describe “Why, Pastor, Why” may be to quote from the “Why, Pastor, Why” page on the website:

“We understand the deep love, admiration, respect, and appreciation you have for your Pastor.
How do you put into words, your appreciation for someone who has given, and sacrificed so much?
In a way which can’t be explained, only felt, the Pastor poem WHY, PASTOR, WHY™ reaches the depths of your emotion-and your Pastor’s-to put these very emotions into words. This is why we feel that this is the definitive Pastor appreciation poem. It speaks to why your Pastor was chosen, and why your Pastor means so much to you.
WHY, PASTOR, WHY™ matches our commitment to honor, uplift, edify, and encourage Pastors to continue their life’s work and calling.
One of our most touching moments came from a Pastor’s wife, after her husband had received one of our Pastor appreciation gifts which contained the words of WHY, PASTOR, WHY™. She made a special point to contact us to let us know how much the words of the poem meant to her. She told us, “If you ever doubt your call, take a look upon the wall.'”

WHY, PASTOR, WHY

As I see you standing there behind the pulpit
Reading from God’s Word
I think back to all those wonderful, blessed sermons
From you that I’ve heard
No-There’s no secret why God brought you out
Oh! The many times your joy has made me shout!!!
You see, Pastor, there was a reason that God saved your soul
Because He knew that serving Him with all your heart
Would be your life’s goal
You see, Pastor, there was a reason that it was you
That God chose
Not your good looks, perfect hair, and stylish clothes
No, Pastor-the reason that God reached down
His hand and saved you
Let there be no doubt!
The reason God chose you
Is because He knew
How you would turn out!
The reason, Pastor, that you mean so much to me
Is that when I look at you
It’s Jesus that I see
For in your footsteps I so gratefully trod
Because I know that in following you
I am following God
Richard.Vincent.Rose.

Here’s an advance look at the poem with
our original “Art Print” design:

Why, Pastor, Why Art Print Design

WHY, PASTOR, WHY™  exclusively available from
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Posted in BIBLE STUDY, MODERN-DAY PSALMS

Jesus: Of Rock and Role

Posted on by pastorappreciationblog

Well, it started with me working on a new poem about Jesus being the Rock … Then, I started to investigate the story behind the great Gospel hymn “Rock of Ages.” … Then, I never knew just how many Scripture verses specifically call God “the Rock,” culminating with Paul’s declaration “that Rock was Christ.”

In studying the Scriptures, one thing really stands out:
The “Role” that the “Rock” plays is the most important fact in your life.
I can say with total confidence that if your life has the “Rock” as its foundation, if you are grounded in the Rock, that makes all the difference-especially when those cold, hard winds of life try to blow you away. The old Gospel hymn is right: If you don’t stand on “Christ the Solid Rock, all other ground is sinking sand.”

After just having gone through a tremendous time of pain, mourning, and grief, I can tell you with the most realistic certainty that, without Jesus, how could we make it through? Plain and simple: We can’t.
Is your “house,” your life, built upon the Rock? What “Role” does the “Rock” play in your “house?” in your life?  

Here are the verses declaring the “Role” of “The Rock:”

Deuteronomy 32:4   He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

 Deuteronomy 32:15   But Jeshurun waxed fat, and kicked: thou art waxen fat, thou art grown thick, thou art covered with fatness; then he forsook God which made him, and lightly esteemed the Rock of his salvation.

1 Samuel 2:2   There is none holy as the LORD: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.

2 Samuel 22:2   And he said, The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;

2 Samuel 22:3   The God of my rock; in him will I trust: he is my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower, and my refuge, my saviour; thou savest me from violence.

 2 Samuel 22:32   For who is God, save the LORD? and who is a rock, save our God?

2 Samuel 22:47   The LORD liveth; and blessed be my rock; and exalted be the God of the rock of my salvation.

2 Samuel 23:3   The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.

 Job 28:10   He cutteth out rivers among the rocks; and his eye seeth every precious thing.

Psalms 18:2   The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

Psalms 18:31   For who is God save the LORD? or who is a rock save our God?
 
Psalms 18:46   The LORD liveth; and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted.

Psalms 27:5   For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.

Psalms 28:1   Unto thee will I cry, O LORD my rock; be not silent to me: lest, if thou be silent to me, I become like them that go down into the pit.

Psalms 31:2   Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defence to save me.

Psalm 31:3   For thou [art] my rock and my fortress; therefore for thy name’s sake lead me, and guide me.

Psalms 40:2   He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings.

Psalms 42:9   I will say unto God my rock, Why hast thou forgotten me? why go I mourning because of the oppression of the enemy?

Psalms 61:2   From the end of the earth will I cry unto thee, when my heart is overwhelmed: lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

Psalms 62:2   He only is my rock and my salvation; he is my defence; I shall not be greatly moved.

Psalms 62:6   He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my defence; I shall not be moved. 
(Note this is one of few times which an exact Scripture is repeated, word for word, in the same chapter).

Psalms 62:7   In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

Psalms 71:3   Be thou my strong habitation, whereunto I may continually resort: thou hast given commandment to save me; for thou art my rock and my fortress.

Psalms 78:35   And they remembered that God was their rock, and the high God their redeemer.

Psalms 89:26   He shall cry unto me, Thou art my father, my God, and the rock of my salvation.

Psalms 92:15   To shew that the LORD is upright: he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.

Psalms 94:22   But the LORD is my defence; and my God is the rock of my refuge.

Psalms 95:1   O come, let us sing unto the LORD: let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation.
(Ever notice that all of the altars were made out of rock? They were, yes fire-proof.)

Isaiah 17:10   Because thou hast forgotten the God of thy salvation, and hast not been mindful of the rock of thy strength, therefore shalt thou plant pleasant plants, and shalt set it with strange slips:

Isaiah 51:1   Hearken to me, ye that follow after righteousness, ye that seek the LORD: look unto the rock whence ye are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged.

Matthew 7:24   Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his house upon a rock:
(This really begs the question:  Is your house, is your life, built upon the Rock?)

Matthew 7:25   And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.
(This is what happens when you build your house, your life, upon the Rock.)

Luke 6:48   He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock: and when the flood arose, the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake it: for it was founded upon a rock.
(You might say His Role is the Rock.
What role does the Rock play in your life?)

Romans 9:33   As it is written, Behold, I lay in Sion a stumblingstone and rock of offence: and whosoever believeth on him shall not be ashamed.

1 Corinthians 10:4   And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ.

Now, that is what I call “Old Tyme Rock and Role!”

Blessings,
Richard.Vincent.Rose.