Author: Anna Lee

Sunday

“Though one may be overpowered,

two can defend themselves.

A cord of three strands

is not quickly broken.”

~Ecclesiastes 4:12 NIV~.

Don Denton

I wanted to udate you all. Don is at Barnes Jewish on the Nurology floor. He is doing well. The doctors have tapered his steroids down to 20mg and Don has been on that does for 3 days now. He has not relapsed!

They will taper down to 15mg starting Monday. We continue to pray that Don will not relapse. Don has met with the Neuro Otologist and we both feel good about the direction they are going in.

There is talk of a biopsy of the brain, but that is NOT definitive at this point. We will be talking with doctors on Monday for a definitive answer as to what direction they want to go in.

We, Don and I will then call his Mayo doctor to discuss this and refer them to consult with the Barnes doctors if they want to do a brain biopsy.

We are praying that a biopsy will not be needed.

Also pray for Joshua. This is much, much harder for him than I could have imagined. This time around is really difficult emotionally for this 4 year old. He cries everytime he leaves his daddy. He gets sad at times and the other day, said upon our leaving the hosptial. Mommy can we take a walk by the lake so I can get my mind off of this. It amazes me that he can say that to me.

Joshua is more afraid this time too. It is almost like he knows dad is pretty sick again. Joshua is very protective of his daddy too.

And for that matter, hearing all of the doctors at Barnes talk about cancer and that possibility is really hard on all of us.

So we are now going on our second week up here. I had to come home this weekend to take care of some important business and we have our very special guests in from Rochester. Which we wish so badly that Don could be here to spend time with them. We so have needed this visit too.

This has been cathardic for both Joshua and I as their visit with us reminds us of our happy times at Mayo. WE have forged a very special bond with them and God brought this precious family in our life at His perfect timing. We are so blessed to know the Gustafson’s.

Josh and I will leave very early Monday morning to be at the hospital first thing to surprise Don.

Please pray for us as we are tired and weary again and are feeling it moreso.

We covet your prayers. We so need them.

Bless you our family and friends.

Diane

Robbie Lynn C. Kirby

Robbie Lynn has told me she was doing well following her recent back surgery. We saw her last night. She is in Kentwood again this weekend and looks well. Thank God for the progress she continues to make.

Two Major Thrusts

The Annie Armstrong Easter Offering supports NAMB’s two major thrusts: evangelism and church planting. An estimated 220 million people in the United States and Canada do not know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. The agency provides assistance to churches, associations, and state conventions in soul-winning training; interfaith witness; and church and community ministries, which include Alternatives for Life ministries and special evangelistic events.

Southern Baptists are starting more than 1,700 new churches every year, more than any other faith group. Yet, we still fail to keep pace with population growth. NAMB provides resources and strategies for establishing churches and missions among all ethnic and language groups in the United States and Canada.





THE VALUE OF TEACHERS

There is a beautiful legend about a king who decided to set aside a special day to honor his greatest subject. When the big day arrived, there was a large gathering in the palace courtyard. Four finalists were brought forward, and from these four, the king would select the winner.

The first person presented was a wealthy philanthropist. The king was told that this man was highly deserving of the honor because of his humanitarian efforts. He had given much of his wealth to the poor.

The second person was a celebrated physician. The king was told that this doctor was highly deserving of the honor because he had rendered faithful and dedicated service to the sick for many years.

The third person was a distinguished judge. The king was told that the judge was worthy because he was noted for his wisdom, his fairness, and his brilliant decisions.

The fourth person presented was an elderly woman. Everyone was quite surprised to see her there, because her manner was quite humble, as was her dress. She hardly looked the part of someone who would be honored as the greatest subject in the kingdom. What chance could she possibly have, when compared to the other three, who had accomplished so much? Even so, there was something about her the look of love in her face, the understanding in her eyes, her quiet confidence.

The king was intrigued, to say the least, and somewhat puzzled by her presence. He asked who she was. The answer came: “You see the philanthropist, the doctor, and the judge? Well, she was their teacher!”

It was James who wrote, “Brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers.” (James 3:1, GOD’S WORD). He points out that teachers will be judged more severely. He could just as easily have said that teachers have a greater responsibility, a greater challenge, a greater opportunity to affect the lives of people in a negative way. It is impossible to teach without using words, and with greater use of words comes a greater danger that the words will do harm.

But thanks be to God that there are those who face that challenge and assume that responsibility and make a diligent effort to use their words as an opportunity to affect the lives of people in a positive way. Those of you who are teachers — who can begin to measure the tremendous effect that you are having in the lives of the children (and adults) in your classrooms? You may not see the results of your efforts for years. In fact, you may never get to see the results. But you do make a difference.

Those of you who are schoolteachers are teaching not only the basics of education, but you are teaching values and character. Those of you who are Bible class teachers are filling the minds and hearts of our children with stories of faith that will stay with them for the rest of their lives. Those of you who are preachers are strengthening the family of God and bringing salvation to the lost.

So, my hat is off to all of you who are teachers because you make a difference!

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach.” (Romans 12:6-7)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thank a teacher(s) at church today and a school teacher(s) this week. I know I have some to thank.

Have a fantatic Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“For the grace of God…

teaches us to say ‘No’ to ungodliness

and worldly passions,

and to live self-controlled,

upright and godly lives.”

~Titus 2:11-12 NIV~

“The Power of the Cross”

Musical/Drama Presentation

April 5th @ 2:30 P.M. and 7 P.M.

April 6th and 7th @ 7 P.M.

Tickets available at the church office

985-229-8111

Baptist Press

March 27, 2009

NEW YORK–Welch heartens 10th Mountain Div. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30155

NEW YORK–Military chaplaincy ‘an awesome experience.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30156

WASHINGTON–U.N. council targets ‘defamation of religions.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30157

TURKEY–Turkish Christians plan appeal of ‘illegal funds’ fine. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30158

TEXAS–Round 2: Conservatives get evolution win in Texas. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30159

NORTH DAKOTA–Fargo area braces for record flood. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30160

TENNESSEE–Americans open to invitations to church. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30161

MASSCHUSETTS–Pitt coach brings everyday faith to Elite Eight. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30162

WASHINGTON–MARRIAGE NEWS: Is ‘gay marriage’ becoming Dems’ ‘default’ position? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30163

WASHINGTON–MARRIAGE NEWS: Former McCain strategist backs ‘gay marriage.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30164

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): Fear of God or government. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30165

CALIFORNIA–FIRST-PERSON (David Jeremiah): Why study prophecy? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30166

Louise Montet Lee
Louise Montet Lee passed away peacefully on Wednesday, March 25, 2009, while visiting her family in Batavia, N.Y. She was born in Kentwood in 1921 and had made her home in Baton Rouge since the age of 5. Visitation at St. Aloysius Catholic Church on Monday, March 30, from 9 a.m. until the service at 10 a.m. Interment in Roselawn Cemetery. Survived by her brother, Charles Montet, of Gonzales; her daughter, Bonnie Lee Hall, of Batavia; grandchildren, Angele Hall, of Batavia, James Evan Hall and wife Marie Murphy Hall, of Hornell, N.Y., and Carter Lee Hall, of Buffalo, N.Y.; four great-grandchildren; and special friends and neighbors, Jean and Bill Lowrey and their children, Justin and Maggie Lowrey. Preceded in death by her husband, Carter Russell Lee; parents, Charles and Agnes Montet; sister, Vera Montet Addison; and brother, Bud Montet. She was active in the Baton Rouge community as a member of many clubs and organizations. She especially enjoyed more than 20 years of volunteer work at the St. Aloysius School cafeteria and watching the children grow. She was an expert seamstress, always buying fabric and making clothes for herself and others. She also loved flowers and her gardens. She will be greatly missed by her surviving family and welcomed home by those who have passed. Pallbearers will be Bill Lowrey, Justin Lowrey, James Hall, Carter Hall, Evan Hall and Mark Montet. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be made to Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge, 550 Lobdell Ave., Baton Rouge, LA 70806.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
ARISTARCHUS, MARK AND Justus were the only Jewish Christians who stood with Paul…
The others may have been those of whom Paul wrote, “The former preach Christ from selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing to add affliction to my chains” (Philippians 1:15-16). Yes, only three!
There were only a few saved in the ark (1 Peter 3:20-21).
Only two of those twenty old and upward, who came out of Egypt, entered the promise land (Numbers 32:11-12).
Sardis had only “a few names” who had not defiled their garments (Revelation 3:4).
Jesus said, “Many are called, but few chosen” (Matthew 20:16).
He also said “there are few who find” the difficult way and narrow gate (Matthew 7:13-14).
May the Lord help us to stand among the few. (Wendell Winkler)
“Enter by the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction, and there are many who go in by it. Because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).
Enjoy this day as you prepare for the Lord’s Day!
Anna Lee

Friday

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels,

but have not love,

I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal.”

~1 Corinthians 13:1, ESV~

KOMpray

(Kids on Mission Pray)

Prayer requests

“Let the little children come to Me, and don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,” Luke 18:16b

WHAT IS COMMON TO YOU?

Lots of us get our ears pierced—after you get over that first sting and let your ear lobes get used to it, pierced ears can be fun and beautiful. But have you ever wondered? Who was the first person to pierce his or her ears? Why did they do it?

The Jur Modo women in Africa don’t just pierce their ears—they pierce their bottom lips! What is beautiful in one culture might be considered unusual in another.

Ear or lip piercing is cultural—it’s common in some countries, not common in others. In America, it’s common to eat peanut butter but it’s not common in every country. In some churches, it is common for girls to wear pants; but in other churches girls wear a dress every Sunday. Maybe you can think of other ideas that are common in once place but not common in another.

We can do some things differently; but when it comes to things about God, there is only one Truth. Jesus is the Savior. The Jur Modo people don’t have anyone teaching them about Jesus. Please ask God to send someone to Africa to teach them about His great love.

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

My brother and I have been sharing with our friends about Jesus. We don’t talk about Jesus a lot because our friends try to change the subject. They have seen the Jesus film, but afterwards they haven’t said a word about Jesus or God. I would like you to pray that our friends’ hearts will be opened to what we have to say and that my brother and I will have the language to share with them. SETH, age 14 (West Africa)

Please ask God to help my parents to know what they are doing and concentrate on their work. I pray that soon the whole world will know God. JL, age 9 (East Asia)

We live in a huge city, full of crime. Please pray for our safety as we travel different places around the city for work and school. Pray for my dad’s ministry in the township of

Soweto. Many people are in cults and many worship their ancestors. There are 4 million people in Soweto and many areas do not have any evangelical churches! Pray that God will open their hearts to the gospel so that they can know Jesus as Savior, Lord and friend! JOSHUWA, age 5 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Safety. JOEL, age 13, (Northern Africa and the Middle East)

My name is Adrian and I am a junior in high school. I live in northern Thailand with my family. I want the Lord to do a work in me so that I can be a mature witness by the time I go to college. Please pray for my self-discipline in all areas of my life: spiritual, emotional, and physical. ADRIAN, age 15 (Pacific Rim)


INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, March 27, 2009

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal” (1 Corinthians 13:1, ESV).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the Office of Global Prayer Strategy, encouraging you to pray for the process of language learning.

Learning another language is difficult physically as well as mentally. Workers among the Lake People of Western Europe ask you to pray for ears that will hear and minds that will understand grammar, vocabulary and nuances of the language being studied. Pray with them for adequate rest at night and strength for the day. Ask God to provide native speakers who will come alongside personnel to encourage them in language learning.

The Central Thai language has 44 consonants, 32 vowels and five tones. It has a Sanskrit-like alphabet, not a Roman alphabet. Southern Thai Team members Robert and Kay H. are going to school to learn the Central Thai language before coming south. Besides learning the language, they are also learning and adapting to culture. They will need to learn enough language in about one-and-a half years to be able to go to a more permanent assignment.

Many missionaries “hit the wall” in language study and wonder if it is really worth it. Pray that they will keep the goal in mind–the image of a seeker’s smile of pure joy upon hearing of Jesus’ love in his own heart language. Specifically pray for Sub-Saharan African missionaries, as many must learn two new languages: a trade language and the heart language of the people group to whom God has sent them to tell the story of Jesus.

* Please pray for missionaries to understand their respective languages quickly, accept the culture gracefully, and have fun doing it.

* Pray that God will be glorified in each person’s efforts to be good communicators of the gospel.

* Ask the Lord to fill each one with love even as He fills their minds with new words.

Baptist Press

March 26, 2009

HAWAII–Christians credited for Hawaii gay unions defeat. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30140

TEXAS–Conservatives lose Texas evolution vote. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30141

WASHINGTON–Pro-lifers, at White House, discuss reducing abortions. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30142

MISSISSIPPI–Wedding plans hijacked by Miss. tornado. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30143

NORTH DAKOTA–Snow hampering Dakota flooding relief. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30144

ILLINOIS–Mexico violence affects volunteers’ plans. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30145

GEORGIA–Tighter budgets, expanding ministry challenge SBC churches. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30146

TENNESSEE–Union’s Lady Bulldogs win 4th national title. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30147

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Art Toalston): Attention marijuana users. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30148

VIRGINIA–WORLDVIEW (Erich Bridges): The rise of the ‘nones.’ http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30149

Cpl. Jeffrey Scott Hammond
Scottie Hammond, 39, passed away Wednesday, March 25, 2009, at his home in Prairieville. He went to claim his heavenly healing after a two-year battle with brain cancer. He was a 20-year veteran of the Baton Rouge Police Department, where he was a corporal in the motorcycle division. He was a member of the Baton Rouge Union of Police and the Fraternal Order of Police. He was an avid competitor in the motorcycle competitions nationwide, an LSU fan and loved NASCAR races. Visiting at Parkview Baptist Church on Friday, March 27, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visiting resumes at the church on Saturday from 9 a.m. until religious service at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Russ Kuyrkland. Interment in Magnolia Cemetery, Magnolia, Miss. Scottie was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Hammond and Glenda Gatlin May; and grandparents, Walter and Connie Hammond and H.R. and Eva Gatlin. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Esther Hammond, of Prairieville; a stepson, Mitch Nordstrom, of Prairieville; son, Landon, of Lake Charles; stepdad, Glen May, of Baton Rouge; brother, Lamar Hammond, of Magnolia; half brother, Timothy May, of Prairieville; stepsister, Susan Talbot, of Houston; his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Bert and Brenda Schenk, of Kentwood; brother-in-law, Cain Schenk, of Walker; special grandmother, Maryetta Morris, of Magnolia; and numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Also survived by his brothers and sisters in the Baton Rouge Police Department along with countless motor officers throughout the country. Special thanks to St. Joseph Hospice, Dr. Patrick Stagg, Dr. Judd Paten, Mary Bird Perkins and Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center’s fifth floor nurses. A heartfelt thanks to our devoted friends, Carl and Carla Dabadie and to two of his angels, Emma Turner and Mekisha Earl. Active pallbearers will be Carl Dabadie, David Wallace, Todd Bourgyone, Tyrone Honore, Marco LeBlanc and Mike Richard. Honorary pallbearers are Gary Traylor, Jimmy Vernon, Todd Weisher, Jules Lockett, Brian Harrison, Gerrick Nelson, Ken Albarez, Rob Grimsley, Kolin Burmaster and Scott Montgomery.

Do you see the timeliness of the following devotional?

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
FEW GREAT LEADERS are accomplished without obstacles or opposition…
Nehemiah encountered both. The officials in Jerusalem ridiculed and opposed Nehemiah’s efforts to rebuilt the wall. Tobiah the Ammonite chortled, “What they are building–if even a fox climbed up on it, he would break down their wall of stones.” And Sanballat the Horonite chimed in, “What are those feeble Jews doing? …Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble–burned as they are?” (Nehemiah 4:2-3). Which just goes to show you that if your purpose is good and worthwhile, you will probably have some vocal opponents.
Nehemiah knew that he alone could not accomplish his purpose of rebuilding the wall; he needed to strengthen the purpose of the entire team. This he did by reminding them that they were not just rebuilding a wall, they were rebuilding and defending their families and a nation. He posted them by families, with their swords, spears, and bows. “After I looked things over, I stood up and said to…the people, ‘Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.'” (Nehemiah 4:14). (Lorin Woolfe)
“So we built the wall,
and the entire wall was joined together
up to half its height,
for the people had a mind to work.”
~Nehemiah 4:6~
I thank God for the rains and pray for your safety through the thunderstorms we are experiencing as well as the “storms” in your life. God is present with us through each thunderstorm and each “storm”.
Anna Lee

Thursday

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).


Just an update on my Mom and Step-Dad (Ruby and Aubrey Stokes). Mr. Aubrey should be coming home today and my Mom will be there in the hospital (per the doctor) untill at the least Monday, she is some better but still has a way to go to get back on her feet, thank God and thanks to you all for your prayers and please continue to pray for them and our family as we try to get them to adjust to having help instead of them trying to do everything by themselves.

Don had MRI of brain and spine today. He will have lumbar puncture tomorrow. He is doing OK. He really wants to be done with this. As anyone would be.

He is feeling OK. Still dizzy. The good news is that they are bringing specialist in the area of dizziness. And they are wanting to ge to the bottom of this as well. The doctors are suggesting that Don possibly stay a little longer.

We will have more answers tomorrow in the direction they want to go in. Joshua is doing well. The family we are staying with is amazing!. Ann and Frank are a gift from God to us. Joshua loves Ann and has bonded with her. Ann has some grandaughters about Josh’s age and that makes it special for him too.

We, Joshua, Don and I are so tired of the hospital. Yet, we have this very peaceful place to come and rest our heads. We are so blessed!

I will keep you posted as we hear more of what the doctors have to say.

Diane

Pray concerns:

*Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell – Hospitalized in Covington for tests

*Mr. Orin Davidson – At Naomi’s; fell Tuesday

*Joann Carter – Waiting to see if treatment is an option

*Kathryn Sanders

*Glen Allen

*Mrs. Faye Price – Kentwood Manor

*Mr. Charley Kuss

*Caregivers

“The Power of the Cross” Easter Presentation

Dear Friends, we are excited to tell you that we now have what we need for BOTH of us to go to El Salvador this summer! We are so thankful. Thank you for coming alongside us! We’ll be in touch again with prayer requests and info. about the trip.

Grateful,

Tricia and Dwayne

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
YOU MIGHT ASK, “Why does God need to test us…?
Doesn’t He know everything, including what we would do in every situation?”  Yes, God knows–but we don’t!  God doesn’t test us in order to find out something He doesn’t already know.  He tests us so that we can learn about ourselves and His love, power and faithfulness.
In Genesis 22, God tested Abraham by commanding him to sacrifice his son Isaac on a mountain in the land of Moriah.  Isaac was Abraham’s only son by his wife, Sarah–the son God had promised to Abraham.  By demanding that Isaac be sacrificed, God seemed to be nullifying His covenant of making a great nation out of Abraham.  How could God’s promise be fulfilled if Isaac was dead?
God tested Abraham to reveal whether or not Abraham truly trusted His promise.  Yes, God knew what Abraham would do, but He wanted Abraham to know as well.  So God put Abraham to the test–and Abraham passed it.  As Abraham r
aised his knife to sacrifice his own son, God stopped him and provided a sacrificial ram instead.
Every test involves obedience in one way or another.  When God tests us, He reveals the true state of our hearts.  (Os Hillman)

“Examine me, O LORD, and prove me; try my mind and my heart” (Psalm 26:2).

Wednesday

“For the one who wants to love life

and to see good days

must keep his tongue from evil

and his lips from speaking deceit,

and he must turn away from evil and do good.

He must seek peace and pursue it,

because the eyes of the Lord

are on the righteous

and His ears are open to their request.”

~1 Peter 3: 10-12a, HCSB~

Don Denton

Don, Joshua and I arrived Sunday night. Don was admitted Monday afternoon to Barnes Jewish and he is doing well. He has seen a number of doctors. We should have a direction that the doctors want to go in by sometime tomorrow. Don is pretty tired as he is not getting much sleep at night. Nurses tend to come in and out of the room often.

We are thankful to be here and are very hopeful to get answers for the dizziness. I will keep you all posted as soon as we hear.

Diane

Carl Wayne Stevens has had several days of not doing real well. Please continue to pray for him, the nursing home staff, and the family.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
WHEN SOMEONE BEGINS speaking by saying, “The ONLY thing you have to do to be saved is…” they involve themselves in error or double talk…
There is no “alone” in the salvation process. It takes a combination of things on man’s part as well as God’s part to accomplish this wonderful event.
More and more we hear people say that we are save by grace “alone.” Such cannot be the case. This with me for a minute. If salvation is by grace “alone,” would that not logically imply that all men would be saved? Paul stated in Titus 2:11 that the “grace of God which brings salvation has appeared to all men. If all that was necessary for salvation to occur was grace “alone,” then all would be saved, for God’s grace has been offered to all.
If one the other hand, man must act in some fashion to secure and appropriate God’s grace, then man’s response becomes a part of the equation. Does this minimize God’s grace? Do we diminish from its power in suggesting that man must respond to grace in order for it to save us? Does man’s response diminish the power and greatness of God’s grace. Of course not. Certainly the Bible teaches that the salvation of man arises from the kindness, love, and mercy of God, independent of our own goodness (Titus 3:4-5). However, while salvation arises from the gracious qualities of God, it is not accomplished until man acts in response to His grace.
While some proclaim we are saved by grace “alone,” others among us are proclaiming that we are saved by faith “alone.” This too is erroneous. To say that one is saved by faith “alone” means that nothing else is involved (i.e., if “alone” really means “alone”). Would that not imply that God’s grace is not even necessary? It would if “alone” means “alone.” If this faith “alone” doctrine were true, it would eliminate God’s part in the salvation process, while the grace “alone” doctrine would eliminate man’s part in the salvation process.
Salvation requires two parties — God and man. The scheme of redemption had its beginning in the gracious, compassionate, love of God. But it is not completed until man responds to the divine conditions of pardon set forth in Scripture. There is just no “alone” in the scheme of redemption. (Steve Higginbotham)
“For by grace (God’s part) you have been saved through faith (man’s part), and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God, not of works, lest anyone should boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” (Eph. 2:8-9a).

Drama rehersal will be in the auditorium at FBC, Kentwood tonight and prayer meeting in the prayer room at 6 P.M.

Have a wonderful Wednesday.

Anna Lee

Monday

“God reigns over the nations;

God sits on His holy throne.”

~Psalm 47:8~

From Sue Minor/Tucker

I am emailing to ask prayer for my Mom and my step-father (Ruby and Aubrey Stokes), both of them are in North Oaks Medical Center. They had a incident on Saturday morning where Mr. Aubrey started to fall and Mama tried to help him and they both ended up on the floor and couldn’t get up and were not found for several hours when my nephew went to check on them. Mr. Aubrey was taken to the hospital and admitted for tests but Mama refused to go, then my brother and sister came home from Houston and talked my Mom into going to the E. R. this morning and she was found to have pneumonia and admitted to the hospital (both of them have been sick this week and Mama was found to have bronchitus on Wednesday and now it has turned into pneumonia). So I would appreciate all of your prayers for them both. Thanks.

Pray for Mrs. JoAnn (Thomas) Carter. She will have surgery tomorrow at Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge.

Pray for Mrs. Faye Price as she is at Kentwood Manor for a while.

Orin Davidson is at home with Naomi Tolar again. Pray for her as she cares for her dad daily.

Continue to pray for Mrs. Annie Belle Harrell as she hopefully learns something helpful as a result of recent tests.

Mike and Kelly Graham Prescott have a new baby born Friday at Woman’s Hospital. Allie Mikel Prescott has a dislocated hip, but otherwise is fine. Pray for them as this problem is addressed.

My niece has a new baby that was born Friday at North Oaks. Ashlyn Jade Stuart was born to Josh and Casey Stuart. Ashlyn has a big brother Aaron. They are at home in Independence. Josh will resume duties as a Marine very soon.

Tickets are now available at the church office for The Power of the Cross which will be presented in two weeks. Contact the church office (229-8111) for more information.

Pray for others as they have various appointments scheduled today or in the coming week.

Jared Prescott

Ruby Dillon

Frank Erwin

Miranda M. Erwin

Grant Smith

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
I HAVE TO confess that initially this passage made me scratch my head…
Based upon what is recorded earlier in Matthew 3, John’s question to the Lord in Matthew 11 really didn’t make sense. It appeared, at least on the surface, as something of a biblical contradiction.

Chapter 3 says Jesus came to John for baptism (3:13). John objected at first, but Jesus convinced him otherwise and the immersion took place (3:16a). Scripture then records that the heavens opened up and the Spirit descended in the likeness of a dove. At that same moment, the Father declared, “This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (3:16b-17; cf. Mark 1:10-11).

Whatever doubts John might have had about Jesus prior to this occasion, they must have been erased, for he was in the presence of the Godhead (Romans 1:20; Colossians 2:9) and had incontrovertible evidence as to the identity of Jesus. And yet, when you get to chapter 11, John (now in prison) sends a rather puzzling question to the Lord. He asks (via a messenger), “Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (11:3).

What?! Wait a minute! “Are You the Coming One…?!” How can Jesus not be the One?! John, have you somehow forgotten about what you saw and heard back at the baptism? Are you suffering from some type of self-induced amnesia? Has imprisonment clouded your mental faculties? Of course Jesus is the Coming One!

Evidently John, like many of his Jewish peers (Acts 1:6), held certain preconceptions about the Messiah. He was looking for a king like David of old. He was looking for a military figure who would overthrow the yoke of Roman tyranny and oppression. He was looking for a political entity who would restore the kingdom to its former glory.

From John’s skewed vantage point, Jesus didn’t exactly fit with his Messianic expectations. Instead of initiating zealous political rallies and instigating a coup against Caesar, the Lord humbly moved among the common people of His day, teaching them and healing their sick. Instead of courting the Jewish hierarchy, Jesus bumped elbows with the unsavory elements of society (9:10; 11:19; 21:32). Instead of delivering his cousin and forerunner (John 1:23, 30, 33-34) from incarceration, He–for some unknown reason–allowed him to languish in a first-century jail cell! John embraced the tradition view of the Messiah and couldn’t reconcile the Lord with his longstanding bias.

“Are You the Coming One…?” I hear doubt and confusion in John’s question, despite what he had seen and heard back in chapter 3 at Jesus’ baptism.

It occurs to me that John is not the only person who has ever looked at the Lord through the lens of prejudice and predisposition. Often times I hear statements to this effect, “Jesus NEVER called names. (He didn’t? John 8:42-47). “Jesus was NEVER blunt with folks.” (He wasn’t? Matthew 8:22; 15:16; 21-28; Mark 2:1-5; 9:14-32; Luke 17:11-19). “Jesus NEVER got angry.” (He didn’t? John 2:13-16; Luke 19:45-46; Mark 3:6). “Jesus NEVER taught baptism was necessary for salvation.” (He didn’t? Hebrews 1:1-2; Matthew Mark 16:15-16; Acts 2:38; 22:16; Romans 6:1-4; 1 Peter 3:21). Folks view the Lord in light of how they’ve been raised or what their “pastor” or parents have taught them, and not in harmony with what the Word actually says about Him. He’s a product of long-standing oral tradition and not the actual Coming One revealed in the Bible.

Dear reader, I urge you to carefully study what Scripture says about Jesus. Cast off the shackles of preconception and get to know (1 John 2:3, 4; 5:20; John 1:10; 14:7; Acts 13:27; Philippians 3:10) the real Messiah. What you want Him to be, what you expect Him to be, and what He IS may not be the same thing. (Mike Benson at: http://www.forthright.net/)

“Are You the Coming One, or do we look for another?” (11:3).


Have a marvelous Monday!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“Love never gives up,

never loses faith,

is always hopeful,

and endures through every circumstance.”

~1 Corinthians 13:7 NLT~

Melissa McGuire

Please remember Melissa McGuire in your prayers. In the past five months she has lost three brothers. She had a brother to pass away yesterday afternoon.
God Bless,
Mary Ann Cutrer

Don Denton

As this weekend is coming to a close I find myself wondering what this next week will look like in terms of findings and conclusions from doctors in St. Louis at Barnes for Don. The truth is, it is scary for us. Especially with the kinds of specialist they want to bring in.

Joshua does not want to go to St. Louis and he loves it up there. He too does not want to see his daddy back in the hospital. Don has been in the hospital once a month since this new year began. It is hard to imagine that Don has been in the hospital off and on right at 110 days since September including this next week.

I don’t know what this week will bring. I know this, my hope has to be in what I can not see. Trusting and just resting is much easier said than done given our circumstances. This journey has been long and hard. And at the same time I have seen God’s hand at every turn. When we thought we were going to lose Don and the doctors only gave us that day….Don is still with us. When doctors at Mayo said they could not promise us what the outcome would be with Don responding….and he is still with us. When I did not think I could make one more day, I did. When I continued to make mistakes and stumble and sometimes just fall to pieces God was there, saying I love you.

I have seen God’s grace and mercy in a powerful way. Not because of my goodness, not because I have said and done all the right things. This is only been because of His Grace. Every time, I thought I was not going to be able to pay another bill, God has provided for us. I continue to be humbled and reminded that God has not left us. Just when I think….how on earth are we going to do this. God shows me how much he loves me.

So as this week unfolds, I don’t know what is going to happen. But I do know that God promises He will never leave us. I know that our Hope is in Him. I know that I can find Rest and Believe in Him, even when it feels so bad and the days seem long. And it feel like hope has taken flight.

WE have so very much to give praise and thanks for. Life and that is first life in Christ. And God’s great mercy and grace upon us.

And then you our family and friends who continue to walk with us, continue to lift us up before our Father. You who continue to come along side us and sacrifice your time and gifts and support to us in an amazing way. We are most grateful to God for you. I now see what it really means to be the church, to minister to those hurting deeply. You all have continued to bless us beyond what we could ever imagine. You have to know that God has used you to encourage us right when we thought we were losing hope and very discouraged.

Bless you our family and friends for your love that can only come from our Heavenly Father. How amazing and wonderful that we have been on the receiving end of your precious kindness toward us.

Please continue to pray for answers and healing. And pray for our little one, Joshua. He too is learning about God’s love toward him.

Bless you.

Diane

Touch

abopal.jpgA MAN VISITED Tiffany’s jewelry store in New York City…

He was shown a magnificent diamond with its gleaming yellow light and many other splendid stones. But he observed one stone that was perfectly lusterless and said, “That has no beauty about it at all.”
The friend who was with him put the stone in the hollow of his hand and held it there for a few minutes. When he opened it, the man said, “What a surprise! There is not a place on it the size of a pinhead that does not gleam with the splendor of the rainbow. What did you do with it?”

His friend answered, “This is an opal. It is what we call the sympathetic jewel. It only needs contact with the human hand to bring out its wonderful beauty.”

How many lives there are that need only the warm touch of human sympathy to make them gleam with opalescent splendor.

Aquilla and Priscilla ran into Apollos, who needed to know the way of the Lord more perfectly. With love and kindness they touched him with the truth, and Apollos became a brilliant apologist for Christianity.

Saul of Tarsus was a much-feared persecutor of the church, but a friend named Barnabas (son of encouragement), stood at his side and defended him to the other Christians. As you know, Saul the persecutor became the apostle Paul, touched by a messenger Ananias and an encourager Barnabas.

A confused Eunuch rode along, not understanding what he was reading. What a blessing that the Spirit urged Philip to join the Eunuch’s chariot and to preach the gospel of Jesus to him. The confused man found answers and went on his way rejoicing.

The hopeless jailer, fearing the worst from the earthquake, thought to take his own life. But two beaten and imprisoned men, who knew the grace of God, cried out, “Do yourself no harm, for we are all here!” They kept him from taking his life by giving him the Lord Jesus Christ. That very hour, the man who had no hope, found great joy in Jesus.

Do you know a downcast and discolored soul you may touch? The warmth of your love coupled with the truth of the gospel can turn a dull soul into one of the lights of the world, like a city set on a hill. (Phil Sanders at http://www.forthright.net/from_friend_to_friend/the_sympathetic_jewel.html)

“You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14

KneEmail; Posted by Mike Benson

Have a wonderful Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“Surely your goodness and unfailing love

will pursue me all the days of my life,

and I will live in the house of the LORD forever.”

~Psalm 23:6 NLT~



WHAT CAN I DO FOR YOU?

It had been a hard winter in the Appalachian area. The snow had piled up deeper and deeper, the mercury dropped, rivers froze, people suffered. The Red Cross used helicopters to fly in supplies. One crew had been working day after day — long hours. They were on their way home late in the afternoon when they saw a little cabin submerged in the snow. There was a thin whisper of smoke coming from the chimney. The rescue team figured they were probably about out of food, fuel, perhaps medicine.

Because of the trees, they had to put the helicopter down a mile away. They put on heavy packs with emergency supplies, trudged through heavy snow, waist deep, reached the cabin exhausted, panting, perspiring. They pounded on the door. A thin, gaunt mountain woman opened the door and the lead man gasped, “We’re from the Red Cross.”

She was silent for a moment and then she said, “It’s been a hard winter, Sonny, I just don’t think we can give anything this year.”

I don’t think the story is true, but it certainly could be. I am convinced that there are two kinds of people — givers and takers. And even in dire times, those who are givers are always thinking about “What can I do for you?” rather than “What can you do for me?” Statistically speaking, the group which gives the greatest percentage of their money to charity every year is the group of people with the lowest income.

There may be several different reasons for that, but truth of the matter is (and this is true among Christians as well), the more we have, the greater is our tendency to hold tight to it. What a great example the Macedonians are to us:

“…in a great trial of affliction the abundance of their joy and their deep poverty abounded in the riches of their liberality.” (2 Cor. 8:2).

Did you notice that? The group of Christians that Paul held up as an example of generous giving to those in need were themselves in “deep poverty”. Yet they gave so much that Paul was reluctant to receive the money, until they implored him “with much urgency” to take their gift.

I look at my own life and see that there are many times when I’m reluctant to give to others, not because it might affect providing for my needs, but because it might affect me having the things I want. Like everyone else, I’m tempted to look out for “number one” and I want to know what you can do for me. But, considering the example of Christ, Paul said:

“Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” (Phil.2:4)

“Father, please forgive me. Help me to develop a heart of selflessness and love for others that constantly seeks to find ways to bless those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.”

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Do something special on this day this is predicted to be beautiful!

Anna Lee