You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free.

But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh ; rather, serve one another humbly in love.

~Galatians 5:13~

Read the Bible in 2020 – July 5

1 Chronicles 1:1-2:17
Acts 23:11-35
Psalm 3:1-8
Proverbs 18:14-15

VBS begins at 8:30 in the morning at FBC, Kentwood. I don’t have any details about how it will be done this year, but I’m sure some changes from the normal schedule will be made. Check into the details so you can make a good decision about sending your children and/or grandchildren.

Operation Christmas Child items can be left in the boxes in the fellowship hall or under the stairs to the balcony. Thanks for your help in packing lots of shoeboxes for boys and girls this year. Each shoebox is an opportunity for children and families to learn about Jesus. It is a fantastic mission opportunity!

Show your love and concern for others today. Be an encourager!

Anna Lee

Monday

“Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you.

Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.”

~Colossians 3:13 (NLT)~

Did you thank God for waking you up this morning?

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 29

2 Kings 15:1-16:20
Acts 19:13-41
Psalm 147:1-20
Proverbs 18:4-5

Operation Christmas Child

For those of you who are asking about what to purchase and when, now is the best time to buy school supplies such as markers, crayons, large erasers, one-subject notebooks, pencils, glue sticks, school scissors, pencil boxes, etc. Happy shopping!

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

Vacation Bible School at FBC, Kentwood begins a week from today. If you have a child or grandchildren attending, please contact the church office at 229-8111 to be sure your child is registered and and paperwork in order.

We all know churches were closed for a while. Some people have been watching online. Others have found different things to do. Pray they find they way back to church services in person or online,

Anna Lee

Sunday

“When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy.

For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow.

So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.”

~James 1:2–4 NLT~

Smiley Conerly is still in Hattisburg. Please continue to pray for Smiley and his family.

Buddy Morris has completed his chemo. He is scheduled for a scan Thursday.

Lori and Keith Rhodes

Quick update for our Facebook family.

After seeking wisdom from friends and professionals, we have decided to begin the process of moving Lori to hospice care. She is in a transition program now that will aid in moving her from home health to hospice.

Continue to keep her in your prayers. She still has her great sense of humor and loves to laugh. She has so many friends and family that check in on her regularly. Thank you guys for loving on my bride. As she said today, “I’m still praying for a miracle.”

Note: Moving her to hospice doesn’t mean that she’s at death’s door. That’s a common misconception about hospice and many people wait too late to make this move. We plan on her being around for a long time!!

Please continue to pray for Lori, Keith, and the family!

Andy and Betty Taylor are doing well quarantined at home.

Susan Rimes is looking forward to her next step – occupational therapy.

David Scott Tolleson, Sr.

Bossier City, Louisiana – A funeral service celebrating the life of David Scott Tolleson, Sr. will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2020 at Rose-Neath funeral home. Visitation will be prior to service from 10:00 am until service starts. Burial will follow at 2:00 p.m. at the Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, 7970 Mike Clarke Road, Keithville, Louisiana. Pastor Nick Sorrell will be officiating and will be assisted by Pastor Bob Gray, Jr.

David Scott Tolleson, Sr. was born August 14, 1956 in Ft. Knox, Kentucky. He was born to Charles and Naomi Tolleson. He passed away peacefully in his home on June 25, 2020.

Scott was a man with a caring servant’s heart. With great pride he served his country in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was always the one that made everyone feel like they were at home. He never met a stranger. He loved his children, adored his grandchildren, and set the precedent on how a husband should love his wife. Scott always had a warm smile on his face and loved to talk to people. To know him, was to love him.

Scott is preceded in death by his Mother, Naomi Tolleson Orr; Father, Charles Jackson Tolleson; Sister, Sharla Hodges; Brother-in-Law, Bill Hodges; Grandson, Logan Dewayne Pace; and In-Laws, Carl and Peggy Schuler.

Scott is survived by his Wife of 40 years, Brenda Tolleson; children, Jacob Tolleson and wife, Shannon, Rachel Pace and husband, Joey, Rebekah Fancher and husband, Chris, Holly Abigail Tolleson, Micah Tolleson, David Tolleson and girlfriend, Jessica Mitchell; grandchildren, Jaelyn, Kierstyn, Lauryn and Gavin Tolleson, Calista, Layton and Lyla Fancher, Jackson and Derek Pace, Addysen and Brayson Tolleson; step father, John Orr; sister, Suzan Grabowski and husband, Rich, and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 28

2 Kings 13:1-14:29
Acts 18:23-19:12
Psalm 146:1-10
Proverbs 18:2-3

Several local churches will host Vacation Bible School in a week. Most are in the evening. FBC’s VBS will be in the mornings. You may want to check with the churches to learn of Covid-19 accommodations. I’m sure all of them will welcome you children/grandchildren.

Many of the area churches are providing regular worship services and on-line streaming opportunities. Choose what works best for you.

May this day be a blessing to you!

Anna Lee

Monday

Have I not commanded you?

Be strong and courageous.

Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”

~Joshua 1:9~

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 22

2 Kings 3:1-4:17
Acts 14:8-28
Psalm 140:1-13
Proverbs 17:22

A list for Bible readings for May-August is available at FBC, Kentwood.

Operation Christmas Child will be packing boxes at FBC. Kentwood. It is always a good time to watch for sales of items children want/need that will fit with other items in a shoebox. Items can be turned in at church any time. Also, a list of suggested items is available at church. A list for July will be available Sunday. Your help with this wonderful mission project is greatly appreciated.

VBS at FBC, Kentwood will begin in two weeks. I know dates and times and not much more because David and I are not getting out unless necessary. Thankfully, the church services come to my computer and other people help me stay updated. If you want to send you child to VBS call the church office at 229-8111 for more information and to pre-register your children.

Baptist Press – hhttp://www.bpnews.net/

This Monday is a great day to be alive and serving God!

Anna Lee

Friday

The LORD brings death and makes alive;

he brings down to the grave and raises up.

The LORD sends poverty and wealth;

he humbles and he exalts.

~1 Samuel 2:6-7~

Please pray for Mrs. Mildred Birch. She has learned she has a gall bladder problem and is checking into having surgery. Please pray for her.

Donald Duncan is better, but continues to be hospitalized to get his problem identified. Your prayers will be appreciated.

Please continue to pray for Debbie Miller Wilkinson of Amite. She continues to fight her cancer at home. I know she and her family will appreciate your prayers.

Please continue to pray for my cousin, Scott, who now lives in Shreveport. He has had Huntington’s Disease for a while. He is resting comfortably at home.

Covid-19 Louisiana Update – Words from the governor (Please read.)

https://www.theadvocate.com/baton_rouge/news/coronavirus/article_7b517258-b18e-11ea-8c8c-87c776b6ef82.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebookbatonrouge&utm_campaign=snd&fbclid=IwAR3uzYw5XpBIbJvgaDVqv-DszCWVoRFy4HoR8gIBKkouDq2mg4dr25UV2aE

Testing in Hammond yesterday – 25% positive
Testing in Denham Springs yesterday – 20% positive

Please wear your mask and stay home as much as possible!

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 19

1 Kings 20:1-21:29
Acts 12:24-13:15
Psalm 137:1-9
Proverbs 17:16

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

We cannot have too many prayers for our country and its leaders during this time.

Anna Lee

Thursday

For where your treasure is,

there your heart will be also.

~Matthew 6:21~

Donald Duncan is hospitalized to identification and treatment of a health problem. Please keep him in your prayers.

Buddy Morris was able to resume chemo. Please continue to pray for Buddy and Eleanor.

Brian Tate is at MD Anderson with plans to not travel there for a while. Thank God for his good report.

The corona -19 virus is still a problem. Please pray for those who are dealing with it now and those whose health is compromised causing them to fight real hard to stay healthy.

Please be in pray for our country in crisis again. A few can cause major issues for many. Pray for the few to get their hearts and actions in the right places.

Please pray for local churches that are planning to have VBS in the next month. July will be a busier month then usual because of the delay caused by the virus.

I understand stores are now selling school supplies. Please remember to make some purchases for Operation Christmas Child if you are able to shop.

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 18th

1 Kings 19:1-21
Acts 12:1-23
Psalm 136:1-26
Proverbs 17:14-15

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

Have a blessed day. Try to be a blessing to at least one person today.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“God gives us even more grace, as the Scripture says,

‘God is against the proud,

but he gives grace to the humble.’”

~James 4:6 (NCV)~

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 16

1 Kings 15:25-17:24
Acts 10:24-48
Psalm 134:1-3
Proverbs 17:9-11

Barrett Travis is home. I know the family will appreciates your prayers, cards, and caring actions.

Pray for the families of those involved in a tragic accident.

Today, I want to thank two very special ladies who gave money for the Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes that will be packed at FBC, Kentwood. Thank-you for helping to bless the children with simple gifts and the invitation to learn about Jesus. This is always a group effort. May everyone who helps be blessed in knowing they make an eternal difference in the lives of children.

Baptist Press –http://www.bpnews.net/

Vacation Bible Schools will be starting in a few weeks. Pray for all the workers who are preparing now. Pray for the children who will participate. Pray for families who entrust their children to the care and training provided.

Anna Lee

Saturday

“The LORD our God does not tolerate perverted justice, partiality, or the taking of bribes.”

~2 Chronicles 19:7 (NLT)~

Today, let’s pray for our once great nation. May people unite and turn to God.

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 13

1 Kings 11:1-12:19
Acts 9:1-25
Psalm 131:1-3
Proverbs 17:4-5

Let’s pray for the churches that will be having VBS this summer. May they all find ways to teach the children in a manner that is safe for everyone.

Pray for churches unable to hold VBS. May they fine alternative ways to reach children and their families this summer.

Most of the church camps for children and youth have been cancelled this summer. May the churches and youth ministers be creative in finding ways to minister to them this summer.

Pray for those, both young and old, who are dealing with the corona virus situation this summer. It was been a big “game changer” in many aspects of our lives. May families and professionals find ways to make adjustments so the virus has only minimal impact on individuals, families, churches, and school.

Pray for churches as they slowly readjust schedules to resume more and more activities.

Pray for schools as they make plans and adjustments for the fall and especially for the activities normally scheduled for the summer.

Continue to pray for health professionals as they treat those who are sick and make accommodations for those who are healthy.

Liesa Smith Gillis

July 15, 1955 – June 11, 2020

A resident of Greensburg, LA, passed away on Thursday, June 11, 2020 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was born July 15, 1955 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 64 years of age. She was a retired educator and guidance counselor with the Livingston Parish School System. She had a love for life and cherished her family, her friends, and her fellow educators and students. She is survived by her husband, Kirk Gillis, Greensburg; two children, Amber Graff and Dr. Eugene R. Graff, Jr., daughter Molly, Hammond; and Cassie Gillis, daughter Marissa, Lakewood, CO; sister, Lyn and Richard Easley, nephew, Richard C. Easley, and niece, Jennifer Davis, aunt, Elois Smith McNabb, Greensburg; and uncle, Harold Ray Smith. She was preceded in death by parents, Albert and Toffie Smith. Visitation at Greensburg United Methodist Church from 9:00 a.m. until religious services at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 13, 2020. Services conducted by Rev. Donald Lum and Dr. Kenneth Reed. Interment Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg, LA. Memorial donations may be made to Greensburg United Methodist Church. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Thank you for praying today.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

Greater love has no one than this:

to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

~John 15:13~

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 10th

1 Kings 7:1-50
Acts 7:30-50
Psalm 128:1-6
Proverbs 16:31-33

Baptist Press –http://www.bpnews.net/

Please pray for medical personnel. It seems they are having lots of patients now that the non-emergency people are having tests and procedure that were put on hold due to Covid – 19.

Remember to continue praying for those who are required to make decisions about receiving hospital treatment based on Covid – 19 situation there.

Homer “Buddy” Magee Waller

January 18, 1948 – June 08, 2020

Mr. Homer “Buddy” Waller, 72, of Kentwood, LA, passed from this life on June 8, 2020, at his residence. He was born on January 18, 1948, in Magnolia, MS to Edgar Waller and Lorine Rimes Waller. He was a member of Lewiston Baptist Church; served his country in the US Army; worked for many years at Tangi Industrial; and enjoyed spending time with his friends. His church family was always very important to him.

Preceding him in death were his parents and one brother in law, Larry Daniels.

Survivors are his two sisters, Sue Daniels of Greensburg, LA and Patsy Miller and husband, Marvin of Lafayette, LA and a host of friends.

Visitation will be on Saturday, June 13, 2020, at Lewiston Baptist Church in Kentwood, LA. from 10:00 AM until funeral services at 11:00 AM with burial to follow in the Lewiston Baptist Church Cemetery. Dr. Gene Richards and Rev. Cory Morris will be officiating the services with Sharkey Funeral Home in charge of the arrangements.

Pallbearers are James Rimes, Joe Joe Norris, Vandy Lewis, Russell Vullo, Max Stinson, and Gary Upton.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to St. Joseph Hospice, especially Lisa King.

In lieu of flowers, family request donations be made to Lewiston Baptist Church: 74576 North Lewiston Rd. Kentwood, LA 70444 or First Baptist Church of Kentwood: 310 Ave. E Kentwood, LA 70444.

To share condolences please visit www.sharkeyfuneralhome.com

Buddy was a very kind and gentle man. I’m so thankful I got to know him.

FBC. Kentwood will be live-streaming at 6 P.M. tonight. You are invited to join them us on Facebook or You-Tube.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“I issue a decree that in every part of my kingdom people must fear and reverence the God of Daniel.

For he is the living God and he endures forever; his kingdom will not be destroyed, his dominion will never end.”

~Daniel 6:26 (NIV)~

Some reasons you might want to thank God today:

Jesus loves you
Your family loves you
Your house didn’t flood
No tornadoes in our area
No sickness in your family
A job with good benefits
Another year of school completed
You are “graduating”, despite the virus
Someone called you
Someone visited you
You have a church family
Your child/grandchild was baptized
You get to work in VBS this year
Your church is finding a way for worship despite the virus
A neighbor brought you fresh vegetables
You are not in the hospital
Your grown children check on you
Your car runs smoothly
Your roof doesn’t leak
You had a good day yesterday
You were able to rest well last night
You have a telephone
Etc.

Prayers needed today! Today, I want to ask for prayers for those who are undergoing chemo, having scans, doing more blood work, getting another opinion, quarantined with the virus, facing additional surgery, etc.

I also encourage you to pray for those who are lost, discouraged, depressed, losing their homes, dealing with children who are in trouble, families with seemingly unsolvable differences, families with members working too many hours, families facing an unwanted move, families with very little food in the pantry, families with more bills than money, older people who cannot afford their medication, families separated by too many miles, neglected children, families with no air conditioning in our hot climate, families needing drivable automobiles, people who need a job, etc.

You can pray for specific people you know in some of these situations or pray in general. These are some of the needs around us. Some of these needs may even be in your family or household. You don’t need names. They need prayers! Hopefully, this list has you thinking and praying,

Dorothy Ann “Puggy” Tate

February 04, 1948 – June 07, 2020

A resident of Kentwood, LA, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020 at her home. She was born February 4, 1948 in Maringouin, LA and was 72 years of age. She is survived by her children, Davis Tate and wife, Beverly and Stephanie Graham and husband, Micheal Graham; grandchildren, Shane Tate, Krystal Tate, Lakin Graham, Levi Graham and Ely Graham; great-grandchildren, Elizabeth Tate, Keegan Herrington and Anderson Tate;13 brothers and sisters. Preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Davis Tate; father, Albert Sparks; mother, Camilla Palermo Sparks; brother and sisters, Albert Sparks, Jr., Jessie Sparks, Linda Baker and Jeanette Sparks. Graveside Services will be held at New Jerusalem Cemetery at 11:00AM Tuesday, June 9, 2020. Services conducted by Bishop Rick Maricelli. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Ivy Wallace Wall, Jr.

February 03, 1942 – June 07, 2020

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Sunday, June 7, 2020 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born February 3, 1942 in Independence, LA and was 78 years of age. He graduated with a bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture from Southeastern Louisiana University. He was a self employed dairy farmer, owner of JaniKing Commercial Cleaning and treasurer/operator of Gulf Dairy Milk Product Association. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Arcola. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Sandra Crawford Wall; daughter, Deborah Wall Miller; son, Ivy “Huck” Wall, III and wife, Kelly; 5 grandchildren, Ben Pierre Miller, Brandi Victoria Miller, Ivy Wall, IV, Ivan Huck Wall and Grace Kelli Wall; great- grandson, Preston Wright; brother, Robert Wall; numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his son, Gregory Wall; granddaughter, Ashley Sue Miller; parents, Ivy Wall, Sr. and Zula Brown Wall. Special thanks to the Saxon family for their love and support during this time. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until 9:00PM on Wednesday and from 10:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Thursday, June 11, 2020. Services conducted by Bro. Bob Simpson. Interment Hyde Cemetery, Chesbrough, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Read the Bible in 2020 – June 9th

1 Kings 5:1-6:38
Acts 7:1-29
Psalm 127:1-5
Proverbs 16:28-30

I received word yesterday that Tangipahoa Baptist Church will hold their VBS early in July. Pray for those leading, teaching, and children who will be attending.

Baptist Press – http://www.bpnews.net/

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Anna Lee