ART & POETRY BY PAUL & KATHY BOECHER

The lion sculpted in wood was a birthday gift from my husband several years ago.  He spent many hours carving, chiseling and sanding to craft this special dramatic mask of sorts. The lion has always been a symbol of strength and prowess. This cat has also been used to describe the stealthy power of our enemy – the devil.  I prefer the first choice.  God is our refuge and strength and through Him all things are possible – even our ability to fend off the distractions get in the way of our journey.

Our world is full of tragic news and difficult decisions.
We struggle to find good in all the strife and dark divisions.
The devil uses all these things to tug within our reasoning.
Manipulating all our thoughts, with his own special seasoning.
But God’s power is much stronger. He has crushed the serpent’s head.
He took the devil’s strength away when He rose up from the dead.

That evil creature walks the earth, in shadows and in darkness.
He preys upon our weaknesses. He thrives upon our starkness.
He lurks about like lions prowl while foraging for their food,
But never will he find surcease for he will not bring us good.
The day will come when angels sing, bringing from up above.
When God will come to judge us all with justice and with love.

Lord, give me wisdom from your Word. Protect me with your arm.
Keep me within protective wings that shield me from all harm.
You’ve conquered death and so will I, as long as I trust You.
You’ve taken all my sins away. There’s nothing I can do,
Except to spread your Word of truth and love as you loved me.
Now shield me from the evil one and set my spirit free.
KATHY BOECHER