How we should live

 

Haiku responding to Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16

Continue to build

affection for each other,

as Christ commanded.

Be hospitable

to strangers; you may find you've

entertained angels.

Don't forget prisoners.

Imagine if it were you

in prison with them.

Those being tortured;

remember them, support them,

grateful it's not you.

Honour marriages;

don't cheat. God will judge the ones

who defile marriage.

Try to be content

with what God has given you.

Don't worship money.

God is your helper;

there is nothing to fear. What

can be done to you?

Imitate the faith

of those who brought you God's word.

Look at how they live.

He is constant; same

yesterday, today, always.

Jesus Christ, our Lord.

© Ken Rookes 2025

Sunday's Zoom service excerpts - Tree service

In our welcoming

In our welcoming

Haiku of the cup

Honours and rewards.

Why are they so important?

Simply do what’s right.

Hospitality;

welcoming his followers

and welcoming Him.

God has welcomed us;

so we open arms to God

in our welcoming.

A righteous reward;

not cash or shining medal,

but satisfaction.

Cups of cold water

for one of his little ones,

these, too, are noted.

Honours and rewards?

We have no need of these things,

serving is enough.

© Ken Rookes 2020

Forget the honour

Haiku for disciples

Teacher, will you do

for us whatever we ask?

What is it you want?

Brothers James and John

didn’t get it; asked Jesus

for seats of honour.

In glory may we

sit with you, at your right hand,

and one at your left?

You are asking much,

and you do not understand:

can you drink my cup?

And my baptism;

are you able to share it?

Yes, we are able.

You answer quickly!

In time you will share these hings

and my suffering.

The others saw red!

James and john had gone too far.

Jesus called them in.

Forget the honour,

That’s not the name of this game!

It’s about serving!

Others crave power,

you are not to be like them.;

you must be like me.

© Ken Rookes 2018

Of all his stories

Haiku for a servant people

Imagination

is engaged less by constructs

than by parables.

He told his stories;

cunning, sneaking up on us,

causing us to think.

Many parables

cause us to squirm. Banish them;

choose other verses.

His stories trouble.

This one disturbs more than most;

gives no place to hide.

Unavoidable!

The king, (Jesus), expects us

to care for others!

Naked, in prison,

hungry, homeless or stranger;

we must show them love.

The neighbour in need

is an opportunity

to love your master.

Make no excuses.

We will be judged by our deeds;

by how we have loved.

© Ken Rookes 2017