FIRST VESPERS

If you've ever sat outside after supper as the sun goes down and you've heard the church bells ring in the distance, you've heard First Vespers. This collection of inspirational poetry and classic paintings is an answering to a call by God, a vesper to tell His story in a meaningful way. Described as poignant and atmospheric, David Burdick's poems brush past the veil sometimes introduced by organized religion and ritual, to offer a fresh vision of Christ, the beautiful Savior. The Bible is filled with poetry by men and women who range in social class, crying out to the Lord in praise, gratitude, need, and lament. Poetic verse is one of the earliest forms of artistic expression. From David's psalms of grief and thanksgiving, to Hannah's songs of praise, to Solomon's keen observations of a meaningless life-poetry has always been an important aspect of prayer, meditation, and worship. Years ago, Christian poet David Burdick was stationed far from home, meditating in his room, wondering how he would remain strong for his wife. Would his marriage survive? As he sought comfort in his Bible, God whispered to his heart: "This is your time on the mountain; use it wisely." Burdick began penning the verses that would become First Vespers. His poetry is true to God's word, non-denominational, and filled with light and hope. Lavished throughout are photos of classic works of art as well as original colorizations of ancient Bible illustrations. Burdick's desire is for the reader to come to know and love God in the intimate way he has. God is not a hellfire-and-brimstone purveyor of guilt waiting to punish and cast us out. He is an all-forgiving God, gracious and long-suffering, desperately hoping we would come to repentance-so that none might perish.