"Care And Feeding"  (John 6:38-40)

Though loss is not my Father’s will, it’s fact of life indeed –
We lose a lot here on this globe from scarcity and greed,
Or just because we’re fearful, worry much within such wealth
Of resource here – we’ve daily bread which feeds us to our health.

We shy away from what He gives lest what we have should go;
“Accumulate” is where it’s at, and people ought to know
That if to gain means lost to us, then that we best forego;
The Lord has been so good to us – may it be always so.

But down-side-up to up-side-down His kingdom comes to folk –
“Do not lose one”, yet “let them go” – is this some kind of joke?
How can we have and hold, and not lose any whom You give,
 If we, as well, with open hands, give mentees space to live?

Won’t they walk off and cotton to some other mentor bright?
Though that’s okay, how’s that matchup with doing this thing right?
“Your job, in Me? Lose none I give to you”, the Father said
To you, O Lord, at least that’s what in Scripture I have read.

“That’s just the point”, I hear You say, “what’s given can’t be lost,
If you are willing to obey, and give, not counting cost;
For you’re a part of larger life, as such you all are one;
Just do, and say, and pray My words for others – join the fun.

“Augmented text is where it’s at for you as you obey,
My guidance here in Giver-Land – I’ll show you what to say,
And how to best convey My truth to those with ears to hear,
And some will sidle up and ask for more – to make things clear.

“Of them, some others come into discipling sort of role;
They mentor others I have given, but find it takes its toll;
So they start seeking help that they might work with excellence;
That’s how it works – for loss is theirs in present circumstance.

“So carry on, don’t worry ’bout the task that’s given to you;
There’s plenty on your plate I see which needs attending to;
Not losing those I give to you concerns your attitude;
With open hands and hearts today, embrace with gratitude –

“Those prickly, awkward, troubled types, who need a helping hand;
Like Judas, Thomas, Peter, John, within My merry band;
It all works out; last day I’ll raise them up just like I said;
But in between the ‘now’ and ‘then’, will folks I give be fed?”

Thanks Lord, for this.

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