The New Year

Hitherto has the Lord led us,
Through many a toil and trial.
He will not fail us now,
He'll be with us every mile.

He will guard and He will keep,
Safe and secure within the fold,
All His treasured lambs and sheep,
For His mercies are ever of old!

All the failures of the past,
He is willing to erase,
As we yield our all to Him,
And take the gift of grace.

The future is as bright,
As the promises of God.
So, let us patiently press on,
To where his feet have trod.

Marjorie Searles
December 31, 1982

For the new year, 1983.

My Friend

A Christian lady with a beautiful smile,
That helps you know that life's worth-while.
Active and busy the whole day through,
Going places, something to do.
We've had many times of pleasure,
Things I've stored up to treasure.
Like Bible studies, prayer groups too,
Church activities, fellowship so true.
Trips we've taken, places we've been,
Things that I'm thankful to have seen.
Memories to cherish my whole life through,
It's been so nice knowing you.
Father, guider her in your will.
Teach her the secret to "be still".

Marjorie Searles
Dec 21, 1982

Written for her friend Helen

Jane

A pretty lady, so petite,
Neas as a pin, head-to-feet.
Meticulous, everything in place,
Courageous, nothing can phase.
Loving old folks, babies too,
Love for her husband, strong and true.
Faith in God, she knows is there
Faith in Him, who answers prayer.

Marjorie Searles
December 21, 1982

To a Precious Friend at Christmas

Nellie, you're a precious friend to me,
Gentle and humble as can be.
Soft-spoken with a rare accent,
New England style - Heaven sent.
You love the Lord, and people too,
Willing and ready His work to do.
Helping those who have a need,
Ever ready His voice to heed.
I surely miss you very much,
But I am glad we can keep in touch.
It's so good to hear you by phone,
It makes me feel much less alone.
May God keep and bless you in His care,
This Christmas season and in the new year.

Marjorie Searles
December 20, 1982

Friendship

A charming lady came to our door,
Someone I had never seen before.
The night was foggy and dark,
And in the ditch, her car did park.
As back on the road it wouldn't go,
We invited her in to share her woe.
We found her to be an interesting gal,
One who turned out to be a great pal.
She has proved to be a precious friend,
One whom I love and can depend.
She instructs me in all kinds of things,
Like sewing and painting and rug braiding.
May our dear Lord keep her and bless,
May He deliver her from all distress.

Marjorie Searles
December 13, 1982

Ode to Esther Mae