Here we are beginning a Wednesday morning this week. What plans do we have for today? What plans does God have for us today? I hope they match up!
Today’s Scripture Verses
“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Remember that the Lord will give you an inheritance as your reward, and that the Master you are serving is Christ.”
Colossians 3:23-24
“And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to me!’
Matthew 25:40
“Feed the hungry, and help those in trouble. Then your light will shine out from the darkness, and the darkness around you will be as bright as noon.”
Isaiah 58:10
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s focus on others:
Those who don’t know Jesus
Those with a sickness or sickness in the family
Those whose bodies are slowing down
Those with new babies to care for
Those who are traveling
Those who have no friendships
Those who need a job
Those who are not doing their best on their jobs
I also want to bring the name of Robbie Lynn Callihan to you today. Many of you will remember her from her early years in Kentwood. She has been sick for many years since then. Prayers for her are always appropriate and needed.
Read the Bible in 2026
September 30
Psalms 90-95
Obituaries
There are no new obituaries listed at this time today.
(I heard this amazing man of God speak in Amite many years ago. His life could make anyone reconsider what they were doing for Jesus! If you don’t read any other articles this week, please take time to read this one! His every action, every step, and every word is no longer limited by cerebral palsy! If you ever heard him speak, you would clearly remember him and hismessaage!)
There are several other articles I plan to read today. I hope you will read some too.
I hope you have/will decide to begin studying this lesson today if you have not already done so.
Missions (Georgia Barnette Offering for Mission Work in Louisiana)
Louisiana is not merely where we live—it is our mission field. And though the journey may not always be easy, I can assure you from my own experience: there is no greater joy than seeing a soul come to Christ and no greater purpose than following His Great Commission.
Let us begin here. Let us begin now. Let us begin with Louisiana.
— Georgia Barnette
Enjoy some time outside in the cooler weather today. God is faithful to send it about this time every year. I know I am thankful!
“But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil.” Luke 6:35
“I have shown you in every way, by laboring like this, that you must support the weak. And remember the words of the Lord Jesus, that He said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2:10
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s focus our prayer on doing and doing well what God has for us to do today.
“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:9-13
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s focus on the children of our communities as they head back to school this week. Pray for safety as they travel to and from school this week and for safety while at school. Pray they have wonderful teachers who will be prepared to teach the subject matter and who will watch over them while they are in the teacher’s care.
Read the Bible in 2026
September 28
Psalm 80-85
Obituary Josephine Louise Capdeboscq
May 9, 1946 — September 26, 2026
Amite, LA
Josephine Louise Capdeboscq, known to many as “Miss Josephine,” entered into eternal life on September 26, 2026.
She was born on May 9, 1946 to Louis Gennaro and Mary Liuzza Gennaro. Her Sicilian heritage was woven deeply into the fabric of who she was, not only in her famous meatballs, but also reflected in the traditions she carried on, her strong faith, and her deep sense of family.
Josephine married Bernard Capdeboscq Sr in 1972, and together they raised two sons—Michael and Milton—while running a dairy farm business in Amite. Josephine was blessed with grandchildren all of whom she loved beyond words and treasured every moment she was able to share with them. Milton’s children, Michelle and Ethan, were the first to teach Josephine how wonderful life would be as a grandma. Shortly after Michael and his wife Brooke rounded off the bunch with Caleb and their precious twins, Emma and Cameron. Before Josephine left this world Michelle (Dusty) gave her the chance to share in the arrival of her first great-grandchild, Emily.
Although she did not have daughters of her own, Josephine had a motherly love for Angelia, the mother of her eldest grandchildren and considered Angelia’s younger children, Hayes, Hazelgrace, Kohen, and Hutson, her bonus grandchildren. She also embraced Kay Saragusa as a daughter and prayer partner. Also close to her heart was her cousin Mary Thornhill.
Called home before her was her husband, Bernard; her mother, Mary; her father, Louis; her beloved friend, Frances Jones; and her dear cousins, Jack and Faye Liuzza.
Josephine held a special devotion to St. Padre Pio, whose words she strived to live each day of her earthly life: “Pray, Hope, and Don’t Worry.”
Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8:30AM until 10:30AM on Thursday. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Helena Catholic Church, Amite, at 11:00AM on Thursday, October 1, 2026. Services conducted by Fr. Reuben Dykes. Interment Colonial Mausoleum, Independence, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
People from some area churches have brought up the subject of Operation Christmas Child latelly, telling of their recent progress and next steps. Please pray for each church as they pack boxes that will take the message of Jesus to children around the world. The boxes also contain hygiene kits, school supplies, stuffed animals, and other toys appropriate to the child’s age. What a blessing to each child who receives a shoebox especially the older children who have an opportunity to participate in special classes similar to our Sunday Schools. We can all pray for the boxes as they impact approximately ten family members, not just the one child who opens the package.
Also, please pray for the churches and individuals who impact the packing of shoeboxes by donation of items or funds and our children as they learn about other children who are not so blessed and ways to help them learn about Jesus.
Reminder
Be sure to pray for others, both near and far away, those who are family and those who are not, people we know because of a church connection and those we have heard about who have a need, those with health issues and those with other needs, especially those who have a need for salvation.
“So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” Galatians 6:10
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
Prayer Focus
Let’s pray this Lord’s Day that we can learn more about God’s desires for us and we will choose to do a better job of following Him.
Read the Bible in 2026
September 27
Psalms 79-79
Baptist Press
You can find both articles and a podcast to catch your attention.
We might not have thought about our state being a mission field, but this video can help us understand some of the needs in our own state.
Do your part to make this Lord’s Day a great day for all of us as we make decisions concerning choosing God’s role in our lives and His desires of how we use our time here on earth for Him.
I’m thankful God woke me up this morning. How about you?
Today’s Scripture
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
Hebrews 6:10
Prayer Focus
Today let’s pray for those who need a visit and time to talk with other people.
Read the Bible in 2026
September 26
Psalms 74-77
Obituaries
There are no new obituaries this morning.
Baptist Press
Sunday School Lesson
Today is a good day to put some additional time into studying your lesson. You can uses a different translation of the Bible, a study Bible, a Commentary, etc. The more you study, the more you learn!
Additional Scripture
Whoever brings blessing will be enriched,
and one who waters will himself be watered.”
Proverbs 11:25
A Special Invitation
Celebration of Life for Dr. Ernest Graham
Saturday, Oct 3, 2026
10:00 A.M. – Visitation
11:00 Service
First Baptist Church, Kentwood
Reminder
Today is a good day for pray for the Georgia Barnette Offering, Samaritan’s Purse, and any other mission projects on your heart.
Today is also the day to make advance preparations for Sunday! Don’t put off what can be done today.
Selected verse: Romans 4:19 Jesus Christ agreed to die on the cross, so that God could forgive people’s sins. As a result people become right with God. They receive true life as a gift from God because he is kind. (EE Bible)
Additional Scripture
“The greatest among you will be your servant.” Matthew 23:11
Missions
Be “On Mission” today. Ask God what you need to do to impact a life for Jesus.
Ladies’ Bible Study
Join us as we study the book of Ruth. There is so much to absorb from this tiny book of the Bible. We will meet again Wednesday at Pine Ridge Church at noon.
Pray for Others
Use you notebook/Prayer List to pray for other needs today. Take a few minutes to update your prayer list.
Thank-you for praying today. You don’t have to be limited to location, frequency, or time when praying.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45
Prayer Focus Today – Let’s give some time to pray for these and other people in our community.
Updates on friends you may know:
George Bales – At prayer meeting last night. but continues to feel weak
Barbara Hutchinson – Home, but wearing an uncomfortable brace
Gail Brister – Mostly at home
Ferrie Gene Blackmon – At home
Fernie Ray Gill – Has a sister in Texas who is very ill
Ora Lee Wilson – Recent back procedure helped her back
Read the Bible in 2026
September 24
Psalms 66-69
Obituary
Bradley Thomas Able
December 10, 1959 — September 21, 2026
Greensburg, LA
A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Monday, September 21, 2026 at his home in Greensburg, LA. He was born December 10, 1959 in Boston, MA and was 67 years of age. He is survived by his aunt, Tommie Carolyn Bordelon and husband, William; nieces, Jennifer Hodges and husband, Devin and Jody Lynn Rodriguez and husband, Benjamin. Preceded in death by his father, Ronald Able; mother, Eloise Miller. A Graveside Memorial service will be scheduled at a later date. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Good morning. October is just around the corner. Hopefully, some cooler weather is too!
A Scripture to Begin our Day
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Luke 6:38
Prayer Focus
There have been a number of deaths in the last week or so. Please pray for all these families and their many friends.
Read the Bible in 2026
September 23
Psalm 58-65
Obituaries – There have been a number of deaths lately. It’s like watching your life roll by when you think of all the recent deaths and your connections.
Ann Patrice Lee Phillips
November 8, 1950 — September 19, 2026
Slidell, LA
A resident of Slidell, LA, passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Slidell Memorial Hospital in Slidell, LA. She was born November 8, 1950 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 75 years of age. She is survived by her husband, George Phillips; daughter, Courtney Phillips Abadie; grandchildren, David, Daniel, and Lily Abadie; sister, Arlene Alston and husband, Jeff; brother, Robbie Lee and Ronda Durbin; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents, Robert Wallace Lee and Dorothy Ann Robinson Lee. Ann’s wishes were to have her services held privately. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Ronald Wayne “Ronnie” Ricks
August 24, 1955 — September 18, 2026
Canton, MS
Ronald Wayne “Ronnie” Ricks peacefully passed away, surrounded by loved ones, at his home in Canton, MS, on Friday, September 18, 2026. He was born on August 24, 1955 in Kentwood, LA and was 71 years of age. Ronnie was a member of Pinelake Church.
Ronnie grew up competing in sports his entire life and was a graduate of Valley Forge Academy in 1974. Ronnie was known for his love of all things sports, especially anything that involved his beloved Ole Miss Rebels. He enjoyed working out and playing golf daily. He also loved spending time in Oxford and going to sporting events at Ole Miss.
Ronnie retired from the U S Postal Service where he held numerous positions throughout his career. Ronnie and Susan spent their time attending ballgames for the Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, and New York Giants during the Manning years.
Ronnie is survived by his wife of nearly 25 years, Susan Haygood Ricks; his children Rondi Ricks, Canton, MS; Robert Ricks, Baton Rouge, LA; Kristin Rattray (Frank), Mandeville, LA; Joel Cupit (Joanna), Woodville, MS; Grandchildren, Karlynne, John Carey, Shelby, Ian and Cole.
He is also survived by his siblings Layton Ricks and wife, Susan; Judy Garcia and husband, Larry; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Eyvonne Ricks; niece Jessica N. Garcia and Larry Garcia II.
Visitation will be held at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, LA from 10:00 AM until services at 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Services will be conducted by Chris Wales. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA.
Pallbearers will be Cole Cupit, Brien LeBlanc, Mark Miller, Rick Prine, Nick Rogers, and John Carey Stephens, Jr. Honorary Pallbearers will be 1974 VFA Football Team Members.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Please wear red, navy or powder blue to honor Ronnie’s love to his Ole Miss Rebels!
Barry Keith McNabb
January 30, 1954 — September 21, 2026
Kentwood, LA
Barry Keith McNabb, a resident of Kentwood, La, passed away unexpectedly on Monday September 21, 2026 at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite, La. He was born January 30, 1954, in Kentwood, La and was 72 years of age. Barry was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, accomplished welder and welding instructor, lifelong horse and cattleman, outdoorsman, athlete and friend to many. Most importantly he was a Christian. Barry was a member of New Zion Baptist Church and attended Pine Ridge Church. A graduate of Greensburg High School and Southwest Community College, where he was later inducted into the Football Hall of Fame. He was a welder by trade and earned his CWI through the American Welding Society. Upon retiring from from the refineries, he earned his teaching degree from McNeese state University where he went on to teach welding at NTCC, Greensburg Campus. Retiring from NTCC, sitting still was not in his nature. He started Bearcat’s Hay Bailing and worked that business until his passing. He is survived by his beloved and devoted wife of 51 years, Helen Ballard McNabb, four daughters: Bridgette Hughes (JD), Beth Day (Jeff), Brooke Hughes (Lee) and Ishalyn Ballard. Seven grandchildren: Preston Day (Callie), Hadlee Monroe Day, Parker Hughes, Annabel Hughes, Sarah Ann Hughes, Ashton Broussard and Annsley Broussard. Brother in law Walter Ballard (Peggy), sister in law and brother in law Nellin and Ronny Webb. Numerous special friends, neighbors, former students, coworkers and football buddies. He was proceeded in death by his parents Robert Lee McNabb and Nannie Belle Sanders McNabb, brothers Johnny McNabb and Bobby McNabb, sister Ann McNabb Huff, sister in law Minnie Bridges McNabb, brothers in law Lynn Huff and David Ballard and his father and mother in law Ishmel and Sarah Ann Ballard. The family extends a special and heartfelt thanks to Dr. J. W. Varnado for his care and friendship. Visitation will be held at Pine Ridge Church from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2026 and will resume at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, September 25, 2026 until religious services at 11:00 a.m. Services will be conducted by the Reverend Doctor Michael Townsend. Interment will follow at New Zion Cemetery in Kentwood, La.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45
Choose Your Personal Missions for Today
Most of us have favorite ways to communicate with others. That may be by phone or it person. It might involve food, a telephone, or church literature. It might involve a printed list or verbal prompts. Sometimes you speak, but sometimes a pen or a screen is involved. I could continue this list, but I think you understand what I am saying. Choose your method and be an impact on others.
One Last Scripture
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
Reminder: Ladies, you are invited to Pine Ridge for the Bible Study today at noon. We are learning about Ruth.
Good morning to you. I pray this is the start of a great day for all of us.
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.” Hebrews 6:10
Prayer Focus
Today let’s focus our prayers on others and how God wants us to minister to them in any way.
Read the Bible in 2026
September 22
Psalms 51-57
Obituaries
Ronald Wayne “Ronnie” Ricks
August 24, 1955 — September 18, 2026
Canton, MS
Ronald Wayne “Ronnie” Ricks peacefully passed away, surrounded by loved ones, at his home in Canton, MS, on Friday, September 18, 2026. He was born on August 24, 1955 in Kentwood, LA and was 71 years of age. Ronnie was a member of Pinelake Church.
Ronnie grew up competing in sports his entire life and was a graduate of Valley Forge Academy in 1974. Ronnie was known for his love of all things sports, especially anything that involved his beloved Ole Miss Rebels. He enjoyed working out and playing golf daily. He also loved spending time in Oxford and going to sporting events at Ole Miss.
Ronnie retired from the U S Postal Service where he held numerous positions throughout his career. Ronnie and Susan spent their time attending ballgames for the Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, and New York Giants during the Manning years.
Ronnie is survived by his wife of nearly 25 years, Susan Haygood Ricks; his children Rondi Ricks, Canton, MS; Robert Ricks, Baton Rouge, LA; Kristin Rattray (Frank), Mandeville, LA; Joel Cupit (Joanna), Woodville, MS; Grandchildren, Karlynne, John Carey, Shelby, Ian and Cole.
He is also survived by his siblings Layton Ricks and wife, Susan; Judy Garcia and husband, Larry; along with numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
Ronnie was preceded in death by his parents, Luther and Eyvonne Ricks; niece Jessica N. Garcia and Larry Garcia II.
Visitation will be held at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, LA from 10:00 AM until services at 1:00 pm on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Services will be conducted by Chris Wales. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA.
Pallbearers will be Cole Cupit, Brien LeBlanc, Mark Miller, Rick Prine, Nick Rogers, and John Carey Stephens, Jr. Honorary Pallbearers will be 1974 VFA Football Team Members.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
Please wear red, navy or powder blue to honor Ronnie’s love to his Ole Miss Rebels!
Ann Patrice Lee Phillips
November 8, 1950 — September 19, 2026
Slidell, LA
A resident of Slidell, LA, passed away on Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Slidell Memorial Hospital in Slidell, LA. She was born November 8, 1950 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 75 years of age. She is survived by her husband, George Phillips; daughter, Courtney Phillips Abadie; grandchildren, David, Daniel, and Lily Abadie; sister, Arlene Alston and husband, Jeff; brother, Robbie Lee and Ronda Durbin; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her parents, Robert Wallace Lee and Dorothy Ann Robinson Lee. Ann’s wishes were to have her services held privately. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
I just read this article and think many of you will all want to read this article.
I think many churches are beginning to emphasise the words “serve”, “serving”, and “service”. The words have always been in the Bible, but are being emphasised much more. I think that is great!
Missions
We talk about organized missions in our churches. I think we need to begin to “do” more organized missions! Talk with your pastor or an individual who is “doing” missions. You can always learn from a person who “has a heart for missions”. I think of “hands on” missions as a great opportunity for all of us. Find someone to guide you and set an example fot you and others.
For this is what the Lord has commanded us: “ ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’ ” Acts 13:47
Pine Ridge Ladies’ Bible Study
We are studying about Ruth. Wednesday. our last meeting, we had 48 ladies present to study together. We are still on chapter one of Ruth. You are invited to join us. If you have an questions, I will be happy to answer them or guide you to a person who can.
Reminder
Spend some time reading the Bible and praying each day.
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