Shalom Charis
by Michael Doyle

Jarred by the fires that burn
Broken hearted as we learn
The sorrow of this season
We extend our love beyond reason

Called to be holy through grace
We keep our eyes on God's face
A spiritual gift is shown with care
God's love is meant to share

Unashamed by God's good power
Present in the darkest hour
His love comes to reveal
The best of His will in every moment until

We can make our community
Out of the love of God's family
The good news is for everyone
As we side for God's will to be done

There is completeness in serenity
As our priority is on eternity
Pulled into this holy conversation
We live God's love even in devastation

Peace if given through grace
As God's ways become what we embrace
Unmerited favor becomes our walk
As we move beyond the milk of mere talk

Abounding grace finds us sufficient
Deserved beyond however we are deficient
His love is abundant in how it is given
In every step beyond being forgiven

Abundant and more than enough
God's grace allows us to hang tough
Overflowing the cups of our life
It shapes our peace from the world's strife

In the book of pure love, not tricks
It is our job to love and God's to fix
Keeping our heart with head in how to live
If we're marked by God to give all we can give

Our everything must be all in
In grateful prayer, we are committed against sin
Living our lives of godly virtue
We have the integrity to be me and you

The gospel believed is beautiful
Producing works that are wonderful
Regardless of whatever this world brings
Our God brings His good from everything

The Book of Romans is a journey
From wrath comes the seeds of our community
In our surrender we are in debt through our care
From the Gospel, we are born again to share

Eyes opened to goodness, we learn to see
Unashamed, we become born to be
Those who walk in our pure integrity
One by one, we are God's family

Shifting ways don't phase the hearts
Of those seeking truth from the start
Anchored by understanding, we grow and learn
A life of grace is bigger than immediately discerned

Surrendered lives are lived to God's best
We learn this as we pass this world's test
Together, we pray this in Jesus's holy name
Knowing our souls are above Satan's flames

(c) January 12, 2025   Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved