Behold
 Lazy Summer Day A hot mid-summer day at the beautiful Cypress Island Wildlife Preserve near Lafayette, Louisiana. Not much is stirring on this ‘dog day’ as I walk quietly along, under hanging moss, listening to the cicada chorus in full voice with a random peeper chiming in. It hasn’t rained recently and the earthy smells of sun baked swamp, moss, and duckweed drift heavy in air. feeding whistling ducks… a nearby alligator quietly submerges Trickles of sweat run down my neck, but I am happy passing the afternoon capturing nature’s unscripted haiku moments with my mind’s eye and camera. Such moments abound as Serendipity exposes them one by one with each turn in the path. I loose myself in nature,.. some call it ‘forest bathing’. blazing sun… the soundless swish of a gator’s tail Finally, I am reminded of reality when a mosquito buzzes my face, and a nearby owl hoots! A peaceful stillness gradually settles with evening cooling as my day closes with a chug of much needed water and a silent prayer of gratitude to God. In evening's waning light, a young raccoon ambles across my return path with hardly a sidewise glance and our eyes meet for a brief second. evening stillness… in the darkening shadows a cricket’s first chirp Al Gallia "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." -John 14:27 (NIV) tripping over stones along winding rocky paths His gifts await us D. Perry  LORD OF NEW SONGS Lord of new songs, fill our mouths with a strain, Let heaven’s dew fall with new wine and grain. Lord of creation, pour out Your splendor, As a soaking rain on young grass so tender. Now it mounts forth, this fresh thing You’re doing, It’s our barren hearts that You are renewing. Teach us with words more valued than gold, Our voices will rise as a new song unfolds. Carol Grandell Scott A song by Brian Shertzer From the mountains to the sea Within the forest I hear a mountain stream In the stillness it sings through the trees Thirsty, I kneel down to take a drink It refreshes as it pours in and through me When His wind rolls over me I'm cradled as a newborn baby Wrapped in His comfort, covered by His peace Thoughts of doubt and worries cease to be At the ocean I hear crashing waves They are relentless both night and day I feel His breeze blow over and through me Taking me where no one else can lead When His wind rolls over me I'm cradled as a newborn baby Wrapped in His comfort, covered by His peace Thoughts of doubt and worries cease to be Take me to the mountain stream And into the salty ocean breeze Wherever He leads I'll find His peace Wherever He leads I'll find His peace When His wind rolls over me I'm cradled as a newborn baby Wrapped in His comfort, covered by His peace Thoughts of doubt and worries cease to be When His wind rolls over me I'm cradled as a newborn baby Wrapped in His comfort, covered by His peace Thoughts of doubt and worries cease to be Written by Brian Shertzer © 6-29-2021  Lisbeth Ho -Tanka Dang Rajo -Art PEACE Quiet your spirit; come dwell in the secret place The place of shalom… Silence… Shhh… Holy, Holy, Holy is the Lord! He is, Prince of Peace… Let His Holy breath fill your lungs As life is renewed and restored! Come with me into the Holy of Holies… There is no fear, no anxiety, no troubles, no rejection… In the Holy place you’ll find Jesus He’s within you and leads you into all truth He will not let you fall… In the Holy place you’ll find peace, because He is peace… Do not let your heart be troubled Let go of all anxiety and enjoy this moment with the giver of life… He is the river it is constantly flowing bringing life to everything that lives in the river The trees are stronger and greener, the fish are innumerable, the foliage is vibrant and thriving, the water, clear and clean and cool…drink of the river of life and you will never be thirsty again… Like the wine he made at the wedding at Cana, this river is unpolluted, it’s nutritious, like nothing you’ve ever drank before…you can drink anytime and be refreshed… Peace, like a river flows…it is flowing right now…Come and drink! Let His Peace immerse you and surround you…like dolphins swimming in the sea…giddy and joyful, jumping in and out of the water with total innocent delight… Enter into the sea of peace!! Jesus, Jesus… Shalom-Shalom… Marla Shaw O’Neill  sabbath the clockmaker unwinds Susan Beth Furst -Haiku d.Perry -Art "So, you'll go out in joy, you'll be led into a whole and complete life. The mountains and hills will lead the parade, bursting with song. And all the trees of the forest will join the procession, exuberant with applause." - Isaiah 55:12 (The Message)   daisy in the city unwilted the street artist's revival Susan Beth Furst -Tanka d. Perry -Art Respite Welcome to my summer moonlight garden. Come join me in a respite from the sun. We’ll sit among the lilies and the dahlias and share our thoughts as this fair day is done. Let blooming fragrance soothe the bright-light madness of worries, rushing schedules, and bold sound. Retreat into this nook of night-cool freshness where blossoms smile as day slips slowly down. First, lean into the ease of no rash fretting, and let your mind come fully into rest. Here in this moonlight garden find your refuge, and know the sweet refreshment of the blessed. Welcome to my summer moonlight garden. Remember here the Peace your heart’s forgotten. May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him... L. W. Owen  Linda L. Ludwig summertime is glowing blossoms on every bough growing hopes in the Prince of Peace casting out the dark clouds Lisbeth Ho  Christine L. Villa What is it about You? What is it about You that gives me such comfort? Is it Your voice? Is it Your arms? Is it Your wings? What is it about You that gives me such peace? You sing over me. Your voice soothes me. Your voice calms my mind. What is it about You that gives me such comfort? Your arms hold me. Your arms protect me. Your arms steady me. What is it about You that gives me such peace? Your wings guard me. Your wings shield me. Your wings hide me. What is it about You that gives me such comfort? You’re my Hope. You’re my best friend. You’re my strength. You’re my peace. What is it about You that gives me such comfort? You follow me around. You are patient with me. You care about me. What is it about You that gives me such peace? I’m safe with You. I’m content with You. I’m at peace when I’m with You. Peace that surpasses all understanding. Peace that calms my mind. Peace that calms my ever wandering heart. You, You are my peace. You, You are my comfort. You, You are my home. It is You, and only You, that gives me such comfort and peace in times of uncertainty. Krystle Nicole Martin  Christine L. Villa & Susan Beth Furst -Split Sequence Christine L. Villa -Art bible school blues i pick up my cross, the one made of popsicle sticks, so very long ago when i partook of oreos & lemon blend in dixie cups. how could i have forgotten that it was so light to carry? Follow Me we make a break for the ice cream truck Susan Beth Furst birds chirping accompanies the acapella of Jesus in each rhythm restless hearts relieved Lisbeth Ho  Peace on Earth? “Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword.” – Matthew 10:34 (NKJV) “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!” – Luke 2:14 (NKJV) “Do you suppose that I came to give peace on earth? I tell you, not at all, but rather division.” – Luke 12:51 (NKJV) “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you....” – John 14:27 (NKJV) Even coming from a lamb that was a lion, and a man who was God, this striking contradiction can perplex and repel when we do not discern the unifying purpose from the dividing effect. Geoff M. Pope  Another song by Brian Shertzer The passage of peace I am a comfort in times of trouble I am a peace in the rising storm I am the answer to your struggle I am the mystery in lives transformed So call on Me when you’re afraid When peace is quite a distance away If your boat is caught out in stormy seas I will be your passage of peace I am the passage of peace I am the wheel in your travels I am your words when they are true And even when life begins to unravel I will stay right beside you So call on Me when you’re afraid When peace is quite a distance away If your boat is caught out in stormy seas I will be your passage of peace I am the passage of peace I am the God who died for your sins I am the Lord of Justice and truth With my grace a crown awaits So run the race that is before you So call on Me when you’re afraid When peace is quite a distance away If your boat is caught out in stormy seas I will be your passage of peace I am the passage of peace Brian Shertzer © 5-10-2005  Reference to Rest Matthew said, “Jesus, what time is it?” “11:28.” Geoff M. Pope The Weight "Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me -watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." Matthew - 11:28-30 (The Message) Pale Blue Dot I choose not to be troubled by the cares of this world. But to feel only peace from the warm embrace of Your love while I marvel at the wonders of Your creation. cloud watching a butterfly rests on my knee Herb Furst  Jesus Saves This is how much God loved the world: He gave his Son, his one and only Son. And this is why: so that no one need be destroyed; by believeing in him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life." - John 3:16 (The Message) Yes, this is the good news. The love of God is so big that even the tiniest creature in his creation is precious to him. Not a sparrow falls to the ground without him knowing. Even the hairs on our heads are numbered. This God, Father God, sent his Son, Jesus, to save us from ourselves. We sin. We can't help ourselves. It's what we do. And it doesn't end well. So, Jesus came to do what only He could do, pay the price for our sins. He died on a cross, in our place. That's it. Done. Now, anyone, anyone, who believes in Jesus, will spend eternity with Him in heaven. And there is always room for one more +  The Summer Issue is out! And we are growing! Thirteen poets, writers, and artists have combined their unique voices in praise, instruction, and encouragement. What is peace? Perhaps, it is found in the "swish of a gator's tail," or in a moonlit garden, or the "secret place." Do we find hope in the "acapella of Jesus" or in a street mural in the inner city? And what about the seeming contradiction of Jesus as the Prince of Peace and the Lion of Judah? Or a heartfelt prayer, "What is it about you?" as the poet tries to put into words the all-encompassing love of Jesus. From the humble haiku, and other Japanese short forms to the beauty and rhythm of rhyme, free verse, painting, digital art, and song, this little journal is blessed. I want to thank all of the creatives who have given their talents as unto the Lord. And to Brian Shertzer, our resident songwriter, I hope to share the links to some of your performances soon. May the Lord keep each and everyone of you in His perfect peace, Shalom, Susan  Meet the creatives Herb Furst is a retired optometrist. He lives in Fishersville and enjoys playing the recorder, tending his garden, and reading the Bible. Al (Alec W.) Gallia resides in Louisiana with his wife of many years. At an early age, Al’s love for the outdoors and solitude led him into his lifetime passion for nature photography. In 2017, Al discovered haiku poetry and fell in love again. He now enjoys capturing his special moments as both verbal and visual images. You can find Al at alecwgallia.com/& agallia.smugmug.com/Portfolio. Lisbeth Ho whose complete name is Elisabeth Holidaya is now a housewife. She lives in Salatiga, a small town in Central Java Province, Indonesia. She loves tanka, haiku, contemplative writing, and nature. Linda Lee Ludwig is a retired wife and mother. She enjoys writing poems and songs, drawing, and ceramic painting. She has been published in FemKu Magazine, Poetry Pea, Haiku Foundations, among other journals. Linda loves to share her poetry and illustrations with friends and her many online groups. Krystle Nicole Martin is from Oklahoma. She is a poet. She is an author. She believes that when you write, you should write with a purpose to make your words have meaning. Krystle believes that there is always hope in the middle of chaos, and that there is nothing to fear if God is on your side. She knows that faith and love always endure no matter what happens in life. Marla Shaw O'Neil has been composing poems since childhood. Her passion comes from knowing Jesus on a personal level. As she writes she prays, “Holy Spirit help me write what it is you want to say.” Marla has written hundreds of poems and shares them on her blog at becourageousbebold.com Linda Watson Owen is the immediate past president of the Mississippi Poetry Society. Her poems have appeared in various journals and publications, and have been consistent winners in both FaithWriters and MPS competitions. She is a retired secondary level educator and pastor's wife and may be contacted at lowenpoem@yahoo.com. D. Perry is a self-taught abstract artist who paints intuitively, using many different medias, including acrylics, watercolors, and digital programs. Many of her pieces are a manipulation of various shapes using texture and vibrant colors. She is inspired by nothing in particular, yet everything she sees and feels. You can find d.Perry on Instagram @dlmspk, d-perry.pixels.com/ & zazzle.com/pymeohmy Geoff Pope is a proofreader for Scribe Media, an English Instructor at Green River College, and a member of the prayer team at Seattle Revival Center. This year his haiku and senryu have appeared in Fireflies’ Light, Sonic Boom, Wales Haiku Journal, Haikuniverse, the Haiku Pea Podcast, and Trash Panda. You can find Geoff on Instagram @wordstoeternity. Carol Grandell Scott is a music teacher who enjoys sharing her love of music with her students. She has sung and played keyboard at various churches over the years. Carol enjoys writing inspirational poetry, designing memory books on Shutterfly, and reading non-fiction and historical fiction. Her greatest joy is spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Brian Shertzer was born and raised in Pennsylvania where he attended Upper Dauphin Area Schools. He's had a passion for writing since the eleventh grade. Brian's been married tor eighteen years to his beautiful wife, Dawn, and they have a son named Dakota. He deeply loves music and playing the guitar. Changing Tides writings and more – Inspired to write all my ... Christine "Chrissi" L. Villa is an all-around creative explorer. She is a children's book author, haiku and tanka poet, publisher, speaker, photographer, visual artist, and a crafter. Her books, poems, photos, and artwork have won awards and recognition. Her collection of Japanese short-form poetry is entitled The Bluebird’s Cry. Chrissi is the founding editor of Frameless Sky (a poetry video journal) and of its imprint Velvet Dusk Publishing. You can visit her at www.christinevilla.com. Susan Beth Furst is an award-winning Japanese short-form poet and Children's picture book author. She has published three haiku collections: Souvenir Shop, Road to Utopia, and Neon Snow. Susan's books for children include The Amazing Glass House and The Hole In My Haiku. You can find Susan on Instagram @susanbethfurstpoet & paperwhistlepress.com. Susan also enjoys wearing the editor's hat for Behold and Life Poems: A Journal of Christian Poetry. If you enjoyed reading this issue of Behold, leave a like or a comment. It is a great encouragement. If you want to submit poetry or art, you can find submission guidelines at Beautiful Defect - Behold  Behold © 2021
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 I fell in love with the ukulele this year. I've been playing since January. I knew that sooner or later I would do what comes naturally to the poetically inclined. I wrote a song! I'm so excited to share it with you. Of course you can't hear it here, but in a few days it will be up on my Instagram account @haikuukulele. I have to practice. I hope you will visit and take a listen. ;) Blessings & Peace, Susan Stripes The corner mission is busy tonight, food for the body and a neon light blinking Jesus Saves. But I got something that food won’t fix, my body’s aching and I’m out of tricks, heading for the grave. Where are the stripes? I know they can heal, and I sure need a healing right now. Repeat Brother Martin, he picks up the mic, he tells the story of a God with stripes, and His blood ran down. The stripes were deep and the stripes were wide, the whole world could fit inside, and His love ran down. Then suddenly I see, those stripes were meant for me. And on that hot blinking neon night Jesus saved my life. The corner mission is busy tonight, I set the table and I pick up the mic, another soul searching for the light, sure needs a healing, sure does need a healing tonight. Where are the stripes? I know they can heal, and I sure need a healing right now. Repeat Susan Beth Furst July 8, 2021 He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and by His stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5 The photo was taken in Bermuda, on our second honeymoon. Herb lost the camera on our first... ;) Coming in August, the Summer Issue of Behold. Know Jesus, Know Peace.  Phipps Conservatory l W.P. Remy Another Easter Sunday My sisters and I pile into the family station wagon for the long ride to Grandma’s house. Mom balances two Easter lilies and a coconut bunny cake on her lap as Dad takes the scenic route through the cemetery. We stop to pick Grandma up then drive over the Bloomfield Bridge to the Spring Flower Show at Phipps. Pap stays home to watch the Easter ham and the jelly beans… Susan Beth Furst Can you find the Easter Bonnets? Easter Message... The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come and see the place where he lay. Then go quickly and tell his disciples; 'He has risen from the dead and is going ahead of you into Galilee. There you will see him.' Now I have told you." Matthew 28:5-7 (NIV) Imagine that! The angel tells the women to go and tell the disciples: Peter, James, and John, no less, that Jesus is alive. It was the most important news in the universe, and it was the women who carried and delivered it. In Jesus' Kingdom, it doesn't matter who you are. Jesus died for everyone. And when you believe in him, you will have everlasting life. It's that simple. Jesus loves you. He told me to tell you. Really. An Easter Poem by Marla Shaw O'Neill In a time and place of ancient times, there lived a man they called the Nazarene… He did many things, we’ve never seen… Some called him Rabbi, others called him friend… Some called him the son of Beelzebub… But others called him Savior, Lord of All, God’s love… Humble of spirit, but courageous and bold… They killed the son of God tis told… And out of a sepulcher he arose… Death could not stop this man Hell had no hold on him, And through all time and space since then… He lives! He lives! He lives! He is High Priest! Mighty Warrior, He is Holy. He is beginning and in him there is no end… Open your heart and let him in… The scales are removed from their eyes…truth overcomes the lies… The new creation sings and all of heaven brings… New beginnings…  Trinity l d.Perry seismic shift jelly beans lost in paper grass Susan Beth Furst Because Because You showed the world that love wins over hate Because You showed the world that You are the open gate Because You showed the world that love is sacrificial Because You showed the world that love is stronger than death Because You showed the world that love is powerful Because of You, this heart will not ever be the same Because of You, this soul will bow Because of You, this mind will be at peace Because of You, this body will surrender Because of You Krystle Nicole Martin  Grace l S.B. Furst The Price of Peace Christ stands before us, silent, still, in perfect, fearless grace. We taunt and jeer. Derision rules, yet Peace is on His face. His hands of mercy now are bound. Foul tongues are loose instead, spitting sharp as thicket’s thorns forced onto His head. His back, though bruised and beaten raw by hands of kings and priests, now bears the weight of sinful hordes, yet stands in utter Peace. His brow bleeds tears of crimson deep, which robes Christ in the flow, yet still He stands in perfect Peace so we can surely know.... True Peace is not the gentle fruit of meditative flight, but is the wine Obedience pours into the darkest night. Peace is not cheap. It comes with cost, adherence to God’s Will. When one life proves, “Thy will be done.” Peace shall that one life fill. No, happiness is not the same as deep abiding Peace. Oft times while groaning in the pain our hearts still find release. For as the Savior stands this day before all men of earth. He proves obedience is the key to a heart where Peace is birthed. L.W. Owen  Phipps Conservatory l W. P. Remy Almost Judas We are sitting on the front porch, fireflies lighting up the red maple. And I tell you the most clever and amazing joke! You look at me for a split second, and start to laugh, so hard that you can’t catch your breath, and tears run down your cheek. And you tell me it’s the best joke you’ve ever heard. Even as I push in the thorns, and pound the nails so hard that you can’t catch your breath, and you hang there until it is finished. Until I start to cry, and you pick me up, and sit with me on the front porch beside the red maple, and I tell you the most clever and amazing joke, You and the fireflies laughing. Susan Beth Furst A Spring Day Spring has sprung here in south Louisiana and it is so welcome! As I walk along the gravel road bordering the cypress filled Lake Martin, almost every step exposes another sign of new life! My camera stays at the ready as my eyes search out Mother Nature’s fresh tidbits of color and textures. Wildflowers with their faces turned sunward, greening trees and lotus pads, the calls of nesting egrets and herons, a sunning alligator, and smell of bedding fish overwhelm my senses. Thank you, Lord, for this day! spring morning... flooding the cypress swamp sunlight and birdsong Al Galllia  Jesus Christ is Risen Today Easter Hymn Anonymous 14th Century Latin Hymn Surrexit Christus hodie Jesus Christ is Ris'n today, Alleluia! our triumphant holy day, Alleluia! who did once upon the cross Alleluia! suffer to redeem our loss. Alleluia!  Roses in Remembrance l Sharon Brani Behold Behold and keep beholding this amazing Wonder. God in human flesh Sacrificed for us Beauty beyond words. Behold and keep beholding. Let it never grow old for us. God come down to fallen earth So we could see His Love. Behold and keep beholding. Don't turn away just yet. Look again very close And you will see everlasting Love exquisite Gift. For you For me. Sharon Brani  Phipps Conservatory l W. P. Remy He is Risen! He is Risen Indeed!! Many thanks to our poets and artists: Marla Shaw O'Neill, Krystle Nicole Martin, L. W. Owen, Al Gallia, Sharon Brani, and d.Perry. Your poems and art speak to the ineffable love that our Savior has for us, even as He gave his life to save us from our sins. I hope that our readers will experience that love anew, and for those who do not know Him, may they be inspired by your words to find their way... For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Luke 11:10 (NIV) Behold, the Lamb of God! Susan Haiga, Spring Morning, Al Gallia Seismic Shift previously published by Sonic Boom, 2017 Photographs of Phipps Conservatory by W. P. Remy, my dad, who took many pictures at Phipps on many Easter Sundays. Meet our Poets & Artists  Easter Peeps l W. P. Remy d.Perry is a self-taught abstract artist who paints intuitively, using many different medias, including acrylics, watercolors, and digital programs. Many of her pieces are a manipulation of various shapes using texture and vibrant colors. She is inspired by nothing in particular, yet everything she sees and feels. You can find d.Perry on Instagram @dlmspk, d-perry.pixels.com/ & zazzle.com/pymeohmy Marla Shaw O'Neil has been composing poems since childhood. Her passion comes from knowing Jesus on a personal level. As she writes she prays, “Holy Spirit help me write what it is you want to say.” Marla has written hundreds of poems and shares them on her blog at becourageousbebold.com Krystle Nicole Martin is from Oklahoma. She is a poet. She is an author. She believes that when you write, you should write with a purpose to make your words have meaning. Krystle believes that there is always hope in the middle of chaos, and that there is nothing to fear if God is on your side. She knows that faith and love always endure no matter what happens in life. Al (Alec W.) Gallia resides in Louisiana with his wife of many years. At an early age, Al’s love for the outdoors and solitude led him into his lifetime passion for nature photography. In 2017, Al discovered haiku poetry and fell in love again. He now enjoys capturing his special moments as both verbal and visual images. You can find Al at alecwgallia.com/& agallia.smugmug.com/Portfolio. Linda Watson Owen is the immediate past president of the Mississippi Poetry Society. Her poems have appeared in various journals and publications, and have been consistent winners in both FaithWriters and MPS competitions. She is a retired secondary level educator and pastor's wife and may be contacted at lowenpoem@yahoo.com. Sharon Brani is an entrepreneur who cares deeply about people. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified Master Life Coach. Sharon has written five books, including The Power To Keep Going and Finding Peace in the Chaos. She enjoys jogging, playing the piano, and the beauty of nature. Sharon finds her wisdom in raising two wonderful daughters and her deep faith in God. You can find her at sharonbranicoaching.com Susan Beth Furst is an award-winning Japanese short-form poet and Children's picture book author. She has published three haiku collections: Souvenir Shop, Road to Utopia, and Neon Snow. Susan's books for children include The Amazing Glass House and The Hole In My Haiku. You can find Susan on Instagram @susanbethfurstpoet & paperwhistlepress.com Susan also enjoys wearing the editor's hat for Behold and Life Poems: A Journal of Christian Poetry. If you enjoyed reading this issue of Behold, leave a like or comment. It is a great encouragement. If you want to submit poetry or art, you can find submission guidelines at Beautiful Defect - Behold  Behold © 2021
 Memories of Semana Santa on Palm Sunday Step-Mom takes home blessed palm branches as trophy for attending mass the day I question what our tradition is all about * the malls are closed radio and tv shows are off the air two half-sisters squabbling in the pool when does real praying start? * from a distance a chanting of religious verses until 2 a.m. teasing and taunting me the summer heat becomes more unbearable * Banal na Huwebes** and Biyernes Santo*** a non-working holiday to visit 7 churches my brother and I giggle as Step-Mom leads the Station of the Cross how much do we need to repent? * caught eating meat I am judged to be a sinner only fish is allowed during Holy Week, they say we eat quietly over every meal * finally, it's Easter Sunday groceries are open karaoke music in full blast once again Father and Step-Mom start their bickering Christine L. Villa * Semana Santa means Holy Week. **Banal na Huwebes means Holy Thursday. ***Biyernes Santo means Good Friday.  Morning Offering It is the 2nd Lenten season during this worldwide Covid-19 pandemic, in which we are struggling to survive. Do we actually think that we can succeed, as ‘one nation under God’, without Him, by continuing to turn away from Him in our lives? I think not, as faith and prayer are the true way, and God is the source of all love, goodness, and hope. morning fog lifts... the scent of coffee rises with his prayers Al Gallia  ONCE FOR ALL A shadow of later graces, the law could not undefile. An obsolete offering was undesired, futile. Delight in the Father's will was His clear design. A better promise, He wrote on our hearts and minds. Our sins and unholy acts He won't recall. His true, atoning sacrifice was "once for all." Carol Grandell Scott  He sees l d.Perry "...therefore have I set My face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed." Isaiah 50:7 (KJV) "And it came to pass, when the time had come that He should be received up, He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem," Luke 9:51 (KJV)  Gethsemane l d.Perry Did you cry? Did you cry on that starless night when all your friends betrayed you? Did you cry when they took you down to mock you and to flay you? Did you cry as he kissed your cheek to fulfill the prophecy? Were you able to remember your final destiny? Did you cry when they hung you there for all the world to see, asking to forgive the sins of all for the sake of one like me? Did you cry as you breathed your last when all your work was done, when the gathering crowd grew silent in the presence of the Son? Susan Beth Furst  untitled l d.Perry Words of Institution Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, "Take, eat; this is my body." And he took a cup and when he had given thanks he gave it to them, saying, "Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins." Matthew 26:26-28 (ESV)  Lamb of God The Passover commemorates when Moses led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt. God was sending one last plague so that Pharoah would let the Israelites go. He was going to kill all of the firstborn sons in Egypt. God instructed Moses to tell the Israelites to sacrifice a year-old lamb and apply its blood to the doorposts of their homes. The houses under the blood were "passed over" by the Angel of Death, sparing all of Israel's firstborn. Fifteen hundred years later, Jesus, the Son of God, became the sacrificial lamb, this time sparing everyone who believes in Him, everyone covered by his blood. "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him, should not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16 Herb Furst  Painting & Words by Christine L. Villa Pilate Before the Christ Pilate, how pathetic, as you bend your will to sin, a pleaser of the people, giving in to every whim. Priests hold your feet to fire as you gaze at God’s own Son. Do you know your name lives on here when your life on earth is done? Look upon the face of Jesus. See beyond the surging crowd. Shut out the screaming voices, so demanding, coarse, and loud. Still your questions, and step closer to the One who stands accused. Feel the power of His Presence. Will you ‘I AM’ refuse? O Pilate, can your palace walls protect you from yourself? Shall your eternal soul be saved by earthly fame and wealth? Before you dip your hands into delusion’s soothing bowl, consider now the price you’ll pay— the losing of your soul! L. W. Owen  Son Stretched Sky Vs 1 Thank God, it's Friday Must have been on His mind Praying in the garden Not my will but thine Pilate stood before Him Whom shall I crucify? Stripped down and beaten Jesus gave His life, He gave His life Chorus His disciples didn't understand They just couldn't comprehend Why Jesus wept And Jesus bled With arms open wide He said, Father forgive I want them to live As He covered the sun stretched sky Vs2 Thank God, it's Friday Must be on their mind Trying to make it through the week So they can live another life They stand among you As you pass them by Whipped and beaten When will you give your life? When will you give your life? Chorus 2 So many don't understand They just can't comprehend Why Jesus wept And Jesus bled With arms open wide He said, Father forgive I want them to live As He covered the sun stretched sky Chorus repeat Woah-oh, Jesus wept And Jesus bled With arms open wide He said, Father forgive I want them to live As He covered the sun stretched sky He covered the sun stretched sky He covers the sun stretched sky Brian Shertzer © 8/8/07  Susan Beth Furst My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? I am poured out like water, and all my bones are out of joint: my heart is like wax; it is melted in the midst of my bowels. My strength is dried up like a potsherd; and my tongue cleaveth to my jaws; and thou hast brought me into the dust of death. For dogs have compassed me; the assembly of the wicked have inclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet. I may tell all my bones: they look and stare upon me. They part my garments among them, and cast lots upon my vesture. But be not thou far from me, O Lord: O my strength, haste thee to help me. A prophetic psalm of David, Psalm 22:1,14-19 (KJV)  untitled l d.Perry It Is Finished. Many thanks to our poets, songwriters, and artists: Christine L. Villa, Al Gallia, Carol Grandell Scott, Herb Furst, L. W. Owen, Brian Shertzer, and d.Perry. Your words and art speak to the ineffable love that our Savior has for us. They have touched my heart. May they do the same for our readers and those who might stumble across this page by accident or divine appointment... Behold, the Lamb of God! Susan Art by d.Perry Haiga, Stained-glasss Jesus, Susan Beth Furst Haiga, Victory Parade, Painting by d.Perry & Words by Susan Beth Furst Victory Parade Haiku, previously published, Frogpond, 2018 Images by Canva Meet our Poets and Artists
d. Perry is a self-taught abstract artist who paints intuitively, using many different medias, including acrylics, watercolors, and digital programs. Many of her pieces are a manipulation of various shapes using texture and vibrant colors. She is inspired by nothing in particular, yet everything she sees and feels. You can find d.Perry on Instagram @dlmspk, d-perry.pixels.com/ & zazzle.com/pymeohmy Christine "Chrissi" L. Villa is an all-around creative explorer. She is a children's book author, haiku and tanka poet, publisher, speaker, photographer, visual artist, and a crafter. Her books, poems, photos, and artwork have won awards and recognition. Her collection of Japanese short-form poetry is entitled The Bluebird’s Cry. Chrissi is the founding editor of Frameless Sky (a poetry video journal) and of its imprint Velvet Dusk Publishing. You can visit her at www.christinevilla.com. Al (Alec W.) Gallia resides in Louisiana with his wife of many years. At an early age, Al’s love for the outdoors and solitude led him into his lifetime passion for nature photography. In 2017, Al discovered haiku poetry and fell in love again. He now enjoys capturing his special moments as both verbal and visual images. You can find Al at alecwgallia.com/& agallia.smugmug.com/Portfolio. Carol Grandell Scott is a music teacher who enjoys sharing her love of music with her students. She has sung and played keyboard at various churches over the years. Carol enjoys writing inspirational poetry, designing memory books on Shutterfly, and reading non-fiction and historical fiction. Her greatest joy is spending time with her husband, children, and grandchildren. Herb Furst is a retired optometrist. He is a jewish believer in Jesus and looks forward each year to remembering the Passover message, that as God set free the Israelites from slavery, we have been set free by the blood of the Lamb. Linda Watson Owen is the immediate past president of the Mississippi Poetry Society. Her poems have appeared in various journals and publications, and have been consistent winners in both FaithWriters and MPS competitions. She is a retired secondary level educator and pastor's wife and may be contacted at lowenpoem@yahoo.com. Brian Shertzer was born and raised in Pennsylvania where he attended Upper Dauphin Area Schools. He's had a passion for writing since the eleventh grade. Brian's been married tor eighteen years to his beautiful wife, Dawn, and they have a son named Dakota. He deeply loves music and playing the guitar. Changing Tides writings and more – Inspired to write all my ... Susan Beth Furst is an award-winning Japanese short-form poet and Children's picture book author. She has published three haiku collections: Souvenir Shop, Road to Utopia, and Neon Snow. Susan's books for children include The Amazing Glass House and The Hole In My Haiku. You can find Susan on Instagram @susanbethfurstpoet, & Paper Whistle Press - Author, Books for Children, Poet Susan also enjoys wearing the editor's hat for Behold and Life Poems: A Journal of Christian Poetry. If you enjoyed reading this issue of Behold, leave a like or comment. It is a great encouragement. If you want to submit poetry or art, you can find submission guidelines at Beautiful Defect - Behold  Behold © 2021
Behold, Issue 3, Pour  Break me Break me open Pour me out Break this off of me I need more of You Break this heart of stone Break this wild heart of mine Break me until I groan Break this wild and untamed heart I need more of you What is it that You see in me? What is it that You want in me? What is it that You need from me? How am I without You! I need more of You! Break me, Shake me, Contain me, Lord, You created this wild heart! It needs more of You! Break me open until there is nothing left! Break me open and pour me out! Break me into tiny pieces! Break me of my own will! Break me of my own stubbornness! Break me! Fill me up with You! I need more of You! Lord, take this whole heart as an offering Lord, take this mind and keep it at peace Lord, take this body and hold it steady Lord, take this soul and use it for Your will! Break me, Pour me out until there is nothing left of me! Krystle Nicole Martin  the old water pipe at the top of the hill we tiptoe and turn the knob. water splashes our faces spilling over our buckets and filling our shoes. we dance in the puddles and the mud, dragging our pails behind us. of such is the kingdom Susan Beth Furst  Just a thought... By Krystle Nicole Martin Did animals follow Jesus around? I mean, I would follow Him around all the time. I do it. I have no shame in admitting it. I only ask because when I'm outside playing my music, I see birds, insects, butterflies, flies, and other creatures. When He is near, all of creation comes alive. I firmly believe it. I believe they followed Him around. I am sure that the big animals like bears, big cats, wolves, and other such animals were always nearby, but the Bible doesn't ever talk about it. Do you think that when He would go off by Himself that animals followed and laid next to Him?  Quotables All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all. Cecil Frances Alexander Peace reigns where our Lord reigns. Julian of Norwich  Krystle Nicole Martin is from Oklahoma. She is a poet. She is an author. She believes that when you write, you should write with a purpose to make your words have meaning. Krystle believes that there is always hope in the middle of chaos, and that there is nothing to fear if God is on your side. She knows that faith and love always endure no matter what happens in life. Images by Canva Photograph, water pump, Susan Beth Furst, © 2021 Break me and Just a note, Krystle Nicole Martin, © 2021 the old water pipe, Susan Beth Furst, © 2021  Behold © 2021
 Photo by Susan 2019 Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented. As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased. Matthew 3:13-17 Anointing He comes up out of the water, smiling, droplets like diamonds on His brown skin, His teeth perfect, white. God descends like a Dove, joyfully circling the Baptist& the crowd, blowing them away, with a voice like thunder, the Father announces his Son. muddy i come to the river again  Quotables "My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus' blood and righteousness," Edward Mote God loves you Jesus Saves "Anointing," Susan Beth Furst, 2019
Scripture Translation, English Standard Version  For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16 This is what that looks like. Not one falls to the ground... Matthew 10:29 I pull into the Walmart parking lot, to the usual place by the dumpsters. I am looking for my friend Kenny. "They don't bother me here," Kenny says. He is smiling, his skin wrinkled and leathery from the sun. I give him a few dollars from my stash. He tells me about the homeless camp in the woods, and how he wants to turn his life around. I tell him about Jesus. He smiles, calls me his angel, and asks if he can hug me. I open the car window, halfway. He picks up his backpack as I wave goodbye. It is the last time I see him. Sometimes at night, I leave a bowl of food on my front porch for Mr. Rick, the neighborhood stray. When he looks at me, from the bottom of the steps, his fur scruffy and saggy, one eye half-shut, I could swear I see him smile. kenny waits by the dumpsters for a couple of bucks& john 3:16 hope "Then the righteous will answer him, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you something to drink? When did we see you a stranger and invite you in, or needing clothes and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' The King will reply, 'Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'" Matthew 25:37-40  SBF 2020 image by Canva Quotables "While the world changes, the cross stands firm." Saint Bruno Be encouraged. God loves you. Just Believe. "Kenny waits," Susan Beth Furst, Tzynchromesh, March, 2019 "Beachcombing," Susan Beth Furst, Editor's choice, Summer Contest-short forms, Time of Singing, June, 2020 |
