Author: Anna Lee

Friday

“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10)

Update on Emily Panter:

Posted 12/22/08

What a wonderful weekend we had! Friday Luke and I took the younger girls to run some errands and it was such a beautiful day. The older kids finished this semester. And I got to visit with my college sweet-mate. Saturday was Lily’s birthday. I can remember being in the hospital and thinking there was no way they would let me out in time for that. But I was here ( a little sore) and it was great! Sunday I went to church!! It was wonderful to see everyone and to once again be in a room with a body of believers all focusing on one thing…how great a God we serve. We then ate Christmas meal at church and the ladies had an ornament exchange. I am so thankful I was able to go. We rested during the afternoon and then took the kids to TaMolly’s and the food tasted right!! (I still only managed to eat one section of me quesadilla) but it was great. Then we took the kids to look at lights. It was a wonderful weekend.

Update on Don Denton:

Posted 12/25/08 M E R R Y C H R I S T M A S

As this day comes to an end for us I found myself throughout the day thinking of these past three months. Sitting on the sofa with Don and Josh and of course the dog right there with us, I could not help but find pure pleasure and joy in what it meant to be there with the ones I love most.

This has been a season of waiting for us. Waiting comes in many forms and in the waiting it can bring out the best and worst of us depending on the situation. For us a devastating illness. The memories that flooded my mind today where difficult and then really good memories.

And after sifting through my emotions today some were sad and most were joyous, I found myself giving thanks again to God our Father for the best Christmas present I have ever had. Just to be sitting right there on the sofa watching Joshua play with his toys and having Don right next to me. God is so good! As my brother gave me some wise advice this day. Seize the moment, don’t let it slip away.

Be “present” with who you are with. We are not promised tomorrow. We have today and even if it is a hard day, it still can be good, good in the sense that we have others to lean on when we can’t make it, we have God’s precious people to reach out to for help. That in and of itself is so good. It is a healing balm to the soul to be ministered to by others.

This Christmas day we give thanks to God for his son Jesus who makes it possible for life. I could not make this journey without him, nor could I make it without the precious people of God – you who have walked with us on the very hard path.

It is truly a good day in the Denton house today. We are home, Don continues to improve. We have a long road, but God is merciful to us. We have so much to be thankful for on this wonderful day!

Next week is another busy week of doctor appts. Please pray for Don, that he will continue to grow stronger and the dizziness, and double vision with continue to improve as well.

Merry Christmas to our family and friends. We love you!

Blessings

Diane

From Velta Morris’ blog:

. . . . December brings so many special moments! For starters, Bill and I got in the real Christmas spirit the first week! For four days we went to Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child center in Charlotte, along with several from our church. There we worked with the shoeboxes! Thousands and thousands of them! Our jobs ranged from inspecting the contents of individual boxes, to removing contributions, to taping the boxes, to arranging them in large cartons according to boy/girl, age, etc., readying them for shipment to the various countries. They will all go by freight liner trucks, by planes, by boats, and finally by carts, burros, and various other means of transport, ultimately reaching those children who are waiting for what might be their only gift! I believe the center in Charlotte alone expected to ship 1.8 million boxes! The deliveries are coordinated with missions organizations throughout the world.

. . . Today – December 20 – brought a very unexpected but delightful telephone call! Barbara Bearden was on the line! Barbara is one of those rare people who come into our lives, leaves a permanent footprint, and we are never the same. Barbara’s life has touched countless individuals over these many years and this blog could never contain a fraction of her accomplishments nor describe our gratitude for our friendship. Her dear husband, Don, was our minister of music in Kentwood in the 1960s. That’s when our friendship began. Don was a student at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary when First Baptist Kentwood called him as our minister of music. Soon thereafter, Don and Barbara (a Florida girl!) were married, and together they ministered to the hearts of folks everywhere and anywhere they saw a need. Barbara was a registered nurse, and her sphere of influence certainly was not limited to this vocation. Don earned his doctorate at Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, and from Louisiana Don and Barbara moved to Mars Hill, NC, where Don was on staff at the college there; later on to Winston Salem where he once again was minister of music in a Baptist church there. Don’s life was cut short in a tragic accident, a result of the actions of a drunken driver. Few deaths have impacted our lives to the extent that Don’s has. Barbara now lives in Savannah, Georgia, where she enjoys living in the historic district, walking to many of her favorite places, and volunteering her time, still ministering to those who are hurting physically and emotionally. Thanks, Barbara, for getting in touch after so many years of our having lost contact with each other! What a wonderful Christmas gift! We are richer because of Don and Barbara Bearden. . . .

2008 Samaritan’s Purse Video Review of 2008

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/2008-Year-in-Pictures/

Holly K. will share at FBC, Kentwood at 6 P.M. Sunday. She will be departing for West Africa after the first of the year to teach MK’s. Be sure to be present to hear about her experiences in Virginia and expectations for West Africa.

I could have posted this before Christmas, but decided to wait so we could use it as a tool to evaluate our Christmas. Read the devotional and rate yourself. I hope you all score well!

TWO VERY DIFFERENT HOLIDAYS

I heard about a teacher who asked the children in her class about the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. She thought it might be effective to inch toward its meaning by having them playfully correct some wrong ideas.

“Now let me think,” she began. “Thanksgiving. That’s the day when we think about all the stuff we have. And how we want more things than anybody else has. And how we don’t care about anybody but ourselves. And . . .”

“No!” the preschool kids were starting to chorus! “No-o-o!”

Then one little guy in the middle of the pack looked up and chirped, “That’s not Thanksgiving, Miss Michelle. That’s Christmas!”

As we begin the transition in this country from Thanksgiving to Christmas, there does indeed seem to be a world of difference in the way these two holidays are viewed. Thanksgiving is one of the few holidays left which has not been ruined by commercialism. It is still a relatively “pure” time of giving thanks to God for our bountiful blessings. Christmas, on the other hand…….

What should be a time when we are able to take great joy in giving to others (for “it is more blessed to give than to receive”, Acts 20:35) and a time to remember the great gift that God has given us through Jesus Christ, has (for many) turned instead to a stressful, hectic time when we are focused on ourselves and our wants

Allow me to make a suggestion based on an ancient Jewish practice. The Jews had a day set aside, like our day of Thanksgiving, to remember how God had blessed them as a nation and taken care of them in their darkest hour. Purim was a day of “gladness and feasting…and for sending presents to one another.” (Esther 9:19).

However, there was one major difference in their practice and ours (though there shouldn’t be). Their thanksgiving resulted in gift giving, but not just to friends and family. They had a practice of “sending presents to one another and gifts to the poor.” (Esther 9:22).

This past week, we all had opportunity to give thanks to God for how He has blessed us. We need to remember that with blessings come responsibilities — and we have a responsibility to use our blessings to God’s glory. In the weeks ahead, may you truly know the joy of using your blessings not merely to make your family happy, but to share with others around you who are in need.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

I trust meeting needs (and wants) of others (not you family) was included in your holiday season. I hope it is a part of your life during the non-holiday times too.

Anna Lee

Anna Lee

Christmas

Merry CHRISTmas! I hope you have received the greatest gift of all time – Jesus!

By entering through faith into what God has always wanted to do for us—set us right with him, make us fit for him—we have it all together with God because of our Master Jesus. Romans 5:1 (MSG)

“The Son of Man has come to seek and to save that which was lost” (Luke 19:10, NKJV).

Please continue to pray for those who are not “up to par” like Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell, Mr. Charley Kuss, Mrs. Nat McKinney, and Mrs. Fay Price. There are many others on the list, but these names give you a starting point for your prayers today.

Many people have been given a gift of health this year. In David’s family, one of his brothers and his sister both received “no cancer” reports. Thank God for these and many other such reports.

Spend some time today thanking God for those who are serving around the world to protect us and others. While fulfilling this great task, they have to be away from their own families. Thank God for their service. If you know someone in the military, find a way to thank them.

I trust you know Jesus is the reason for the season. Let him work through you to impact others this holiday season and throughout the year.

GOOD TIDINGS TO YOU

No one can fracture a Christmas carol better than a child. You will enjoy trying to sing along with these new takes on old favorites:

* Deck the halls with Buddy Holly (boughs of holly)
* We three kings of porridge and tar (Orient are)
* On the first day of Christmas my tulip gave to me (true love)
* Later on we’ll perspire, as we dream by the fire (conspire)
* He’s makin’ a list, chicken and rice (checkin’ it twice)
* Noel, noel, Barney’s the king of Israel (born is the king)
* With the jelly toast proclaim (angelic host)
* Olive, the other reindeer (all of)
* In the meadow we can build a snowman, then pretend that he is sparse and brown (Parson Brown)
* You’ll go down in Listerine (history)
* Oh, what fun it is to ride with one horse, soap and hay (one-horse open sleigh)
* Good tidings we bring to you and your kid (kin)

That last fractured Christmas carol isn’t so far off. The message of the gospel — from the birth of Jesus to his death and resurrection — is indeed good news for both you and your kid.

Remember when Peter preached that first sermon on the day of Pentecost in Acts 2? The focus of the sermon was on Jesus Christ — the fact that he had been crucified and buried, but that he was also raised from the dead to sit at the right hand of God. The crowd of people was convicted by the role they had played in the rejection of Jesus. They wanted to do something and were told by Peter,

“Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” (Acts 2:38-39)

Did you notice that phrase? The one about this promise (forgiveness and the gift of the Holy Spirit) being for you and your children. “Good tidings we bring to you and your kid.”

One of the great things about Jesus Christ is that his blessings are available to everyone — to you, your family, your neighbors and even those who are “afar off.” May both you and “your kid” know the blessings that come from responding in faith to Jesus Christ!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Anna Lee

Christmas Eve

For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
—Isaiah 9:6

A Christmas thank-you
Multitudes of people around the world are celebrating Christmas this year because you prayed, partnered and gave to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.

Thank you, and Merry Christmas from Jerry and Bobbye Rankin and all of us at the IMB.

Staying home doesn’t mean missing out on church, missions
After almost 40 years as a pastor, Gerald Cole decided it was time to go home to Louisiana to retire. He and wife Rosie found themselves back at their first pastorate, Springhill Baptist Church near Marion. But they found a locked building and a challenge to start again, which they did. Things went well for a time, then the economy began slipping, as did Rosie’s health. Membership is down to two now, and mostly the services happen in the Coles’ living room. But they still tithe weekly, send money on through the Cooperative Program and this year mailed a $2,000 check to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. “We haven’t quit,” says Gerald. “We’re not through.”
Thank-God for people like the Coles who continue to serve and continue to give. May we use them as an example for our lives.

Mrs. Margaret Callihan is getting stronger. Pray for her as she continues to improve.

Mr. Bud Callihan is feeling fine since his hospital stay and heart procedure. Thank God for his good reports.

Mrs. Catherine Yarborough said the temporary nerve treatment helped with her back pain. Pray the permanent treatment Monday is successful.

Mrs. Faye Price continues to be about the same. Please continue to pray for her, the medical staff of the ICU unit, and the family.

Pray for all the people who are traveling. Pray for safety and that they would have an opportunity to share their holiday joy and the reason for the holiday with others.

Frank William Meduna, Jr.
(June 30, 1929 – December 22, 2008)
U.S. Veteran Died at 10:40 PM on Monday, December 22, 2008 at his residence in Amite, LA. He was a native of New Orleans, LA. Age 79 years. He was a retired Staff Sargent, U.S.M.C., a Purple Heart recipient, and a member of Marine Corp League, Jans F. Hursey Det. 748, Slidell, LA. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 11 a.m. on Friday until religious services at 1 p.m. Friday. Interment Arcola-Roseland Cemetery, Arcola, LA. Survived by 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Leah and Craig Mellin, St. Paul, MN, Sandra and Patric Darvie, Slidell, LA, grandson, Patric Darvie, III, Slidell, LA, numerous nieces and nephews, Preceded in death by, wife, Blanche Lawrence Meduna, parents, Frank William Meduna, Sr. and, Florence Barth Meduna, Special thanks to caregiver, Barbara Hoover.

Baptist Press

December 23, 2008

*** TENNESSEE–7-year-old’s Christmas cards boost missions. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29570

*** GEORGIA–They opened their hearts -– 41 times. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29571

COLORADO–Girls go shopping in the Christmas spirit. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29572

*** FLORIDA–Tebow’s football awards anchored by faith. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29573

WASHINGTON–Bush signs enhanced anti-trafficking bill. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29574

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Roger S. Oldham): God’s Son, born of a virgin. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29575

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Kenneth S. Hemphill): The Advent of the King. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29576

How is Your Manger?

Where there are no oxen, the manger is empty, but from the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest. Proverbs 14:4.

During the time of Caesar Augustus, an issue was decreed that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. So Joseph and Mary, subjects of the Roman government, left the town of Nazareth and went to their hometown of Bethlehem because Joseph belonged to the house of David. Mary and Joseph were engaged. She was expecting her first child, and while they were there, in Bethlehem, the time came for the baby to be born. Mary gave birth to her firstborn, a son, whom they named Jesus. “She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”1

The baby Jesus, out Savior, was born in a crude building that reeked of animal dung and was placed in a cruel manger. His welcoming committee consisted of donkeys and oxen and dirt-poor shepherds. There was nothing delicate about the surroundings into which our Savior was born. No place more humble could have been found in which to lay the Savior of the universe. None of us can say that we had a less auspicious start in life, but Jesus proved during His sojourn among us that He works best in difficult and unpleasant circumstances.

Jesus came to bring the touch of God to humanity. Isaiah prophesied of our Savior, “Surely He took up our infirmities and carried our sorrows.”2 Jesus was the sinless friend of sinners. He liked sinners; He enjoyed their company; He had compassion on them; He loved them. In one story of Jesus, “A man with leprosy came to Him and begged Him on His knees, ‘If you are willing, you can make me clean.’ Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man. ‘I am willing,’ He said. ‘Be clean!’ Immediately, the leprosy left Him and He was cured.”3

“Filled with compassion, Jesus reached out His hand and touched the man.” Do you know what a touch meant to someone with leprosy? Imagine. Suppose the man’s name was John. In his previous life, he had a wife and two young children. One day, John was at work and noticed a raised scab on his upper arm. He was somewhat concerned and so he went home to his wife. She told him to hurry to the priest; perhaps he could do something to help. But the priest assured John that there was nothing that could be done for him. He had received a plague, a judgment from God. There was no hope. He could not return to his family, not for one last hug or kiss – not even for one last touch.

The disease of leprosy was not particularly painful after the first few weeks, and although John may not have felt physical pain, he certainly did suffer. Almost all the pain that he felt came from the outside, the pain of rejection imposed upon him by his community. How the man came to Jesus, we do not know, but it is not too hard to imagine the indignation rippling through the crowd as John walked through them to meet Jesus while shouting “Unclean! Unclean!” When he reached Jesus, we are told that he fell down at His knees and begged, “If you are willing, you can make me clean.” And Jesus, filled with compassion, reached out His hand and touched the man. The crowd must have gasped.

Imagine being touched after years or months of no contact with another human. What, do you suppose, was his response? A tear? A flinch? How many months or years had it been since he felt the warmth of a human touch? What would have been your response?4

The text in Proverbs says, “without the oxen, the manger is empty.” The greatest Lover in history appeared to us amidst the dirty oxen of a lowly stable. He appeared amidst the scandal of an expectant, yet unmarried couple. He knows what hurts us. Jesus reveals a God who is not indifferent to human agony, a God who reached out to touch us, a God who fully embraces the human condition, and plunges into the thick of our human struggle.5 He showed us that He is Emmanuel, God with us – God who touches us. There is nothing that Jesus does not understand about the heartache that hangs like a cloud over the history of our lives. God expects us to lay the difficult, unpleasant, and leprous parts of our life before Him. Unless He washes us, unless He touches our lives, we may have no part with Him6 without the oxen, the manger is empty. Jesus knows all about us, but He loves us anyway. He says, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.”7

Luke says, “There was no room for them in the inn.” Do you have room for Jesus in your life? In our society today, we guard ourselves to make sure that no one discovers our weaknesses. We feel that we must carry around our failures and burdens in a brown paper bag whose contents are not visible to the rest of the world. Jesus commands us, “Lay that burden down. I am here to take care of it.” Isn’t it wonderful to know that we have a Savior who knows all about us and yet still loves us the same as if we had never sinned? – if only we could let Him inn.

If you find yourself struggling under a burden of sin or depression or disappointment, Jesus is waiting to be born in your manger. Jesus came to this earth to deal with our “messy” problems. He loves to touch our lives. He knows our weaknesses, but Jesus works most powerfully through our shortcomings. God loves to work in the difficult and unpleasant situations of our lives. If we let Him live long enough in the manger of our life, amidst the oxen of our burdens, we will be changed. Slowly, the stench of our hurt and anger will be broken by the fragrance of our knowledge of Him. We will become the “aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.”8

If you already have a relationship with Jesus, remember back to what you were like when He called you. Remember your first encounter with God. Remember the day you met Jesus. Remember how your heart quaked at the awareness of His presence. Remember how you trembled in the presence of His overwhelming love. Not many of us were brilliant by human standards; not many of us were influential; not many of us were of noble birth;9 some of us were arrogant; some of us were proud. Praise God! He chose us anyway!

God chooses the foolish things of the world to shame the wise. He chooses the weak things of the world to shame the strong.10 Do we, like Jesus, have love for the unlovable? Do we have love for the lepers in our lives? Are we willing to touch other’s lives? Jesus was a sinless friend of sinners. Are we friends of sinners or are we their worst enemies – our own worst enemies? How can we overcome? We ask God to help that what breaks His heart, will break our hearts as well.

Littered along the road from the Manger to the Cross will be the bitterness, anger, disappointment, pride, and arrogance that we once tightly held in the security of our brown paper bag. In its place, we will grasp the transparent vessel of the body of Christ. We will extend to our frightened world the love, hope, and touch of Jesus Christ regardless of race, religion, or culture. From the strength of an ox comes an abundant harvest.

My prayer for you this holiday is that you may experience Jesus – that pearl of great price wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. May the grace of Jesus Christ be with you this Christmas, and may you continue to find joy in your journey with Him. Christina.

I Luke 2:1-7. All texts are my paraphrase or are quoted from the NIV Bible. C. 1996 by AMG, International. 2 Isaiah 53:4 3 Mark 1:40-44. 4 See Philip Yancey, In The Jesus I Never Knew. Pages 171-173. 5 See Brennan Manning, In Lion and Lamb. Page 128. 6 John 13:8 7 2 Corinthians 12:9 8 2 Corinthians 2:14,15 9 1 Corinthians 1:18, 25-31 10 ibid.

————————————————————————– — This Christmas meditation is by Christina Harris who can be reached at . Feel free to contact her regarding your appreciation, testimonies, thoughts, comments, etc on this lovely devotional. I want to wish you a blessed and healthy holiday season and New Year full of God’s richest blessings.

Yours in Christ,

Fred Gibbs

FYI: FBC, Kentwood will not have any Christmas Eve or Christmas services.

Merry CHRISTmas!
Anna Lee

Tuesday

You will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6 (NLT)

I talked with Sherry Rosamond. She said her son is glad to be home from the hospital. Pray for him as he continues medication to complete his recovery. Pray Dustin will be able to follow the doctor’s orders for his recovery.

Debbie Miller had a good medical report when she went for a check-up. She will see a heart doctor for the next check-up in six months. Thank God for Debbie’s return to good health.

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell continues to need our prayers. She still is having the same problem that has plagued her for months. As always, she would be most appreciative of your prayers.

You may have noticed I haven’t posted an emails from Frann Smith Clark lately. When Frann doesn’t email, that means she is not feeling her best. Please pray for Frann, Riley, and their family members who are so attentive to their needs.

Many of you like to keep up with the Hatchels. Commission stories has posted some information on the Roma and a story about the Hatchels. You can find this at http://www.commissionstories.com/?p=51.

I especially enjoyed reading some of the Baptist Press articles that were released yesterday. I hope you will take time to read some too. I especially enjoyed the articles about Mike Hulkabee, graduations at NOBTS and SWBTS, as well as the story of the third generation at New Orleans. Many of you may know one of the Charlie Ray familes. I marked my favorites (***).
December 22, 2008

WASHINGTON–Gay activists demand Obama concessions for Warren pick. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29553

FLORIDA–Huckabee: Christians should be firm, not angry about Wash. atheist flap. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29554

*** FLORIDA–Huckabee pauses during book tour to preach. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29555

MINNESOTA–Minn.-Wis. Baptists face financial challenges. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29556

*** LOUISIANA–‘We own the night,’ Kelley tells graduates. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29557

CALIFORNIA–5 married couples among GGBTS grads. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29558

*** LOUISIANA–3rd generation earns doctorate at NOBTS. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29559

KENTUCKY–Preach with authority, Mohler tells grads. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29560

*** TEXAS–Southwestern wraps up centennial celebration. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29561

NORTH CAROLINA–Merritt challenges Southeastern graduates. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29562

NORTH CAROLINA–FIRST-PERSON (Paul Brewster): A life-changing trip. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29563

WASHINGTON–Conservative leader Weyrich dies. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29564

Why Jesus is Better Than Santa Claus?

JesusSantaSanta lives at the North Pole…
JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh…
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year…
JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies…
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited…
JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your heart when invited.

You have to wait in line to see Santa…
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap…
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn’t know your name, all he can say is “Hi little boy or girl, what’s your name?”…
JESUS knew our name before we were born. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly…
JESUS has a heart full of love

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO…
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says “You better not cry”…
JESUS says “Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.”

Santa’s little helpers make toys…
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but…
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree…
JESUS became our gift and died on a tree…the cross.

We need to put Christ back in CHRISTmas, Jesus is still the reason for the season.

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

(http://retirementwithapurpose.com/christmas/jesusbetterthansanta.html)

I hope you know Jesus this Christmas! If so, please share His message. If not, find someone who can introduce you to Jesus. He can give your life a purpose greater than you can imagine!

Merry CHRISTmas!
Anna Lee

Monday Afternoon

Wilda Mae Traylor Fairburn Gill
(March 30, 1932 – December 22, 2008)
Died at 6:07 a.m. on Monday, December 22, 2008 at her residence in Spring Creek, LA. She was a native of Baptist, LA. Age 76 years. She made a hundred sweaters for children in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, made 80 sweaters for children in Mexico and this year made numerous afghans for hospice. She will be loved and missed by all. She is survived by her 3 daughters, Terry Bridges and husband, Randal, Tangipahoa, Jean Ricks and husband, Johnny, Bolivar and Gail Fairburn, Spring Creek; 3 sons, Mike Fairburn and wife, Susan, Spring Creek, Dickie Fairburn and wife, Barbara, Roseland and Bobby Fairburn and wife, Jo, Kentwood; 4 sisters, Nancy Loper and husband, Larry, Brookhaven, MS, Jo Ann Smith and husband, Elliott, Brookhaven, MS, Sharon Bevil and husband, John, Gramercy and Lois Leonard, Springfield; 11 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 43 years, Harold Bernard Fairburn, Sr.; son, Harold Bernard Fairburn, Jr.; parents, T. J. and Rita Traylor; 2 sisters, Bertie Ballard and Yvonne Chenevert; brother, Thomas James Traylor, Jr. Visitation at Spring Creek Baptist Church, from 10 a.m. until religious services at 12:00 Noon Tuesday. Services conducted by Dr. Danny Smith. Interment Tangipahoa Cemetery, Tangipahoa.

Sunday

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Romans 5:1 (NLT)

Update on Dustin Rosamond: Dustin is now home and doing better, has to take real good care of himself and take it easy for a while. We want to thank all of you for all of your prayers and ask you to continue to pray for his full recovery. Thank you again for praying.

Faye Faller is home from the hospital.

According to Les, Faye Price is about the same. Keep praying for everyone involved.

Ways to Keep Christ in Christmas

By Mary Fairchild, About.com
12 Days Of ChristmasEnter the 12 Days of Christmas Competitions for a Chance to Winwww.raisingkids.co.uk

Keeping Christ in Christmas:

The number one way to keep Jesus Christ in your Christmas celebrations is to have him present in your daily life. If you’re not sure what it means to become a believer in Christ, check out this article on “How to Become a Christian.” If you’ve already accepted Jesus as your Savior and made him the center of your life, keeping Christ in Christmas is more about the way you live your life than the things you say—such as “Merry Christmas” versus “Happy Holidays.”

Keeping Christ in Christmas means daily revealing the character, love and spirit of Christ that dwells in you, by allowing these traits to shine through your actions. Here are simple ways to keep Christ the central focus of your life this Christmas season.
1) Give God one very special gift just from you to him:
Let this gift be something personal that no one else needs to know about, and let it be a sacrifice. David said in 2 Samuel 24 that he would not offer a sacrifice to God that cost him nothing.

Maybe your gift to God will be to forgive someone you’ve needed to forgive for a long time. You may discover that you’ve given a gift back to yourself.

Corrie Ten Boom, a Christian who survived extreme brutality in a German concentration camp after rescuing many Jews from certain death during the Nazi Holocaust, was later able to say, “Forgiveness is to set a prisoner free, and to realize the prisoner was you.”

Perhaps your gift will be to commit to spending time with God daily. Or maybe there is something God has asked you to give up, like last New Year’s resolution. Make this your most important gift of the season.
2) Set aside a special time to read the Christmas story in Luke 1:5-56 through 2:1-20:
Consider reading this account with your family and discussing it together.
• The Christmas Story
• More Christmas Bible Verses
3) Set up a Nativity scene in your home:
If you don’t have a Nativity, here are ideas to help you make your own Nativity scene:
• Nativity Related Crafts
4) Plan a project of good will this Christmas:
A few years ago we “adopted” a single mom. My friend was barely making ends meet and didn’t have money to buy gifts for her small child. Together with my husband’s family we bought gifts for both of them and replaced her broken down washing machine the week of Christmas. Do you have an elderly neighbor in need of home repairs or yard work? Find someone with a genuine need, involve your whole family and see how happy you can make someone this Christmas.
• Top Christmas Charity Projects
5) Take a group Christmas caroling in a nursing home or a children’s hospital:
One year the staff at the office where I worked decided to incorporate Christmas caroling at a nearby nursing home into our yearly staff Christmas party plans. We all met first at the nursing home and toured the facility while singing Christmas carols. Afterwards, we headed back to our party with our hearts full of tenderness. It was the best staff Christmas party we’d ever had.
6) Give a surprise gift of service to each member of your family:
Jesus taught us to serve by washing the disciples feet. He also taught us that it is “more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35 (NIV) The idea of giving an unexpected gift of service to members of your family is to demonstrate Christ-like love and service. You might consider giving a back rub to your spouse, running an errand for your brother, or cleaning out a closet for your mother. Make it personal and meaningful and watch the blessings multiply.
7) Set aside a time of family devotions on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning:
Before opening the gifts, take a few minutes to gather together as a family in prayer and devotions. Read a few Bible verses and discuss as a family the true meaning of Christmas.
• Christmas Bible Verses
• Christmas Prayers and Poems
• The Christmas Story
• Christmas Devotionals
8) Attend a Christmas church service together with your family:
If you are alone this Christmas or don’t have family living near you, invite a friend or a neighbor to join you.
9) Send Christmas cards that convey a spiritual message:
This is an easy way to share your faith at Christmastime. If you’ve already bought the reindeer cards—no problem! Just write a Bible verse and include a personal message with each card.
• Select Christmas Bible Verses
10) Write a Christmas letter to a missionary:
This idea is dear to my heart because I spent four years on the mission field. Receiving a letter always felt like opening a priceless gift on Christmas morning, no matter what day it was. Many missionaries are unable to travel home for the holidays, so it can be a very lonely time for them. Write a special Christmas letter to a missionary of your choice, thanking them for giving their life in service to the Lord. Trust me—it will mean more than you can imagine!

You may see some familar faces at http://www.commissionstories.com/?p=51.

Have a great day. Try to do some of the things listed on today’s devotional. You’ll be blessed.

Anna Lee

Sunday

He saved us and he called us to be his own people, not because of what we have done, but because of his own purpose and grace. 2 Timothy 1:9 (TEV)

Tonight, the sanctuary choir of FBC, Kentwood will present their Christmas musical at 6 P.M. You are invited to attend.

Aiden James Ross
(December 19, 2008 – December 19, 2008)
Entered this world on December 19, 2008 and was carried away by the angels to heaven. He is survived by, mother, Pamela Ann Wilkinson, father, Joshua James Ross, sister, Alaina Kelly Ross, grandparents, Pat and Tommie Love Cooper, Stanley Rush and Donna Mann Ross, great-grandparents, Dorothy Love, Phyliss Mann, Libby and Orea Cooper, a number of aunts, uncles, and cousins, Yoga Mann, Matt Ross, Darla Mann, Donald Wilkinson, Tonya Kanter, Debbie Love, Dennis and Lynn Pennington, Clay and Phyliss Love, Jade Bankston Davis, Kevin and Devin Kelly, Taylor Metz, Nataleigh and Jayce Wilkinson, and many other numerous family members. Preceded in death by Leona and Lucy Kirkland, Tommy Love, Dennis Mann, Denny Mann, Ken Kelly, Jr. Graveside Services at 1:00PM Monday at Briar Patch Cemetery, Loranger, LA. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering is still being collected.

Can I give to the offering if I am not Southern Baptist?
Why give through LMCO?

Yes! You don’t have to be Southern Baptist to support the ministries of family or friends serving overseas.

Christian workers who serve with the International Mission Board (IMB) receive thier financial support from a network of Southern Baptist churches who give to the Cooperative Program and to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Consequently, missionaries sent through the IMB have never had to raise funds or seek donations from friends and family to cover their ministry expenses.

The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering is named to honor a single Christian woman who worked in China nearly a century ago. She suggested that stateside churches collect an offering for world missions. She got the idea from a Great Commission Christian partner, the Methodists, and passed it along to a network of Southern Baptist churches, and raised $3,315.

That first offering in 1888, helped place three more missionaries in China. Today, more than 5,500 Southern Baptist overseas workers benefit from this ongoing offering. About half of the living and working expenses of these families are paid with gifts to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Even if you are not Southern Baptist, we invite you to support the ministries of these Christian workers.

If you would rather give by check, make your check payable to IMB and reference the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering. Send your gift to:

IMB
Development Department
PO Box 6767
Richmond, VA 23230-0767

I hope you are enjoying the questions about the birth of Jesus. Here’s ten more:

1. Who was the father of Joseph the husband of Mary?
A. Jacob
B. Eleazar
C. Azor
D. Jechonias

2. Which angel appeared to Mary?

A. Gabriel
B. The Angel of the Lord
C. Michael
D. Gideon

3. Who was promised that he would not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ?
A. Zacharias
B. Joseph
C. Simeon
D. John the Baptist

4. Who was the king of Judaea at the time of the birth of Jesus?
A. Herod
B. Pilate
C. Caesar
D. Barnabus

5. Where was Jesus born?
A. Nazareth
B. Bethlehem
C. Jerusalem
D. Egypt

6. How did the shepherds who visited Baby Jesus know where to find Him?
A. They were told in a dream.
B. An angel of the Lord told them.
C. They read it in the ancient scrolls
D. A messenger from the east informed them.

7. How did the Magi (wise men) who visited Baby Jesus know where to find Him?
A. They followed a star in the east.
B. An angel of the Lord told them.
C. They were told in a dream.
D. They followed a cloud before them.

8. Which was not a gift the wise men brought to Jesus?
A. Myrrh
B. Frankincense
C. Silver
D. Gold

9. To escape from the king, the angel of the Lord told Jesus’ family to leave and go where?
A. Syria
B. Egypt
C. Bethlehem
D. Palestine

10. Where was Jesus raised after they returned?
A. Bethlehem
B. Egypt
C. Syria
D. Nazareth

Correct answers:
1-A
2-A
3-C
4-A
5-B
6-A
7-A
8-C
9-B
10-D

Jesus is the reason for the season!
Anna Lee