new songs of my soul 2018-2

SONGS OFMY SOUL Michael Carter

All rights reserved Songs of my soul@2018 Michael CarterISBN:

He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Psalm 40:3



TABLE OF CONTENTS



PREFACESongs of my soul is a collection of poetry from 1983-2018.This is Christian poetry which expresses my faith and hopein Jesus Christ.They are songs of thanks and praise which flow from agrateful heart to God for his blessings. I like to believe theHoly Spirit tells me what to write and I put it on paper. Thefinished poems are my songs on the journey.I began writing poetry when I was a college student in 1983.In time, I had a collection of poems which I kept in anotebook. Sadly, I no longer have the notebook, I was aLutheran pastor from 1991-2005, serving congregations inTennessee and Wisconsin. I served as chaplain at the jails inSt. Louis, Missouri. These ministries allowed me theopportunities to share poetry and other Christian writingswith the people I served. It was during these years I startedworking on my book of poetry.These poems are songs of my soul. They are songs of faith,hope, and thanksgiving. I believe poetry helps me to keepmy mind focused on the Lord. This reminds me to press onin faith and look to Jesus.I believe God has given me this gift to bless others. As youread this collection, may the Holy Spirit put a song of praisein your heart. May you find strength for your journey.Michael CarterAll Souls DayNovember 2, 2018



PART ONESONGS OF MY SOUL



Jesus, eternal SaviorJesus may your grace shine bright.May it break through sin’s dark night.Deliver us from sin’s sadness.Grant us lasting peace and gladness.Jesus, you are God, holy and divine.In your light, we glory and shine.Let your Holy Spirit make us new.May he guide us to live for you.Jesus, keep the Church in the palm of your hand.Protect and give it the strength to stand.Defend your Church against enemies outside and within.When the Church falls, restore it again.Jesus, to you, the holy angels sing.The saints proclaim you eternal King.The entire redeemed stand with voices raised.They sing, “Jesus, your name is praised.”