Tuesday

“Then Jesus said to him,

‘Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.’

At once the man was cured;

he picked up his mat and walked.”

~John 5:8–9 NIV~

No update on David Allen yet this morning.  I’ll post later.

Caring Bridge Sites:

Baptist Press

October 12, 2009

WASHINGTON–Chinese church attacked; pastor, members held.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31439

WASHINGTON–Tiananmen Square hero honored on Capitol Hill.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31440

WASHINGTON–Obama pledges ‘unwavering’ support to gay causes, community.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31441

DALLAS–Land: Nobel committee still playing politics.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31442

TEXAS–CP EMPHASIS: Joy fuels church’s missions efforts.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31443

TENNESSEE–Unite around Gospel essentials, Dockery urges.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31444

TENNESSEE–Forge new identity, Mohler urges young Southern Baptists.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31445

TENNESSEE–Akin: SBC future hinges on change.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31446

TENNESSEE–Future of denominations, SBC in focus at Oct. 6-9 gathering.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31447

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Rebecca Powell): Reaching the heart of your tween daughter.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31448

OREGON–FIRST-PERSON (John Lipton): How the Cooperative Program impacted me.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31449

Spirit

evita-photos2.jpgDR. PEDRO ARA Sarria perfected a technique for preserving the body and applied it to Argentina’s Eva Peron…

The embalmed body was kept intact but, for political reasons, was moved from place to place. It went from his laboratory in Buenos Aries to a military camp, to a dusty storeroom in Bonn, Germany, to a secret grave in Milan, Italy, to an attic in Madrid, back to a chapel in Argentina, and finally to a family tomb.

What happens to our bodies after we die may not be very important. What happens to the spirit is very important. Whether our bodies are buried, cremated, lost in an explosion, or buried at sea, it makes no difference. The real concern is that the soul be at home with God.

“And many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake, some to everlasting life, some to shame and everlasting contempt” ( Daniel 12:2).

Posted by Mike Benson

Pray for the many people around us who are grieving or dealing with serious illnesses.  More important than that, pray for those who are lost – that they will find the way!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“It is better to win control over yourself

than over whole cities.”

~Proverbs 16:32 TEV~

Mr. Cete Dillon is improving greatly!  Thank God for this progres.

The Robert Ricks of Arcola is a former classmate of David’s.  Robert has cancer and will going to M.D. Anderson Monday.  Prayers will be appreciated as his treatment is determined and carried through.

Caring Bridge Sites:

Baptist Press
October 9, 2009

TENNESSEE–Hispanics hold high view of education.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31429

WASHINGTON–Dominican Republic protects unborn.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31430

TENNESSEE–INTERNATIONAL DIGEST: Iranian women refuse order to deny Christ.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31431

WASHINGTON–Half in poll say homosexuality ‘morally wrong’.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31432

TENNESSEE–Nobel prize stirs comments on nukes, abortion.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31433

IRAN–Reaching into Iran with the Gospel.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31434

IRAN–Iranian ponders Islam, Christianity.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31435

TENNESSEE–CP EMPHASIS: Profiles of passion for cooperation.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31436

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Bob Rodgers): 1 percent isn’t much, or is it?
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31437

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Richard Land): The cries of the poor.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31438

What do you think of this devotional?

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor
IN THE FIRST century we see undenominational Christianity at work before it had been adulterated, corrupted, and perverted by the traditions and innovations of men…

It was a way of life so meaningful and powerful that it eventually conquered the Roman empire.
It was a transforming power over men, communities and nations (Acts 17:6, 19-23).  Undenominational Christianity was sufficient then as well as now.  Denominationalism is not only unauthorized, but it is unnecessary because Christianity flourished in the first century without it.
The average religious man would be perplexed if by some miracle he could be sent back twenty centuries amidst the early church and observe her work, worship, simplicity, fervor and rapid growth without any ecclesiastical or denominational trappings.  We read of congregations of believers, but no Congregationalists.  We read of penitent, baptized believers, but no Baptists.  We read of presbyters, or elders, who led each congregation, but no Presbyterians.  We read of method and order in worship, but no Methodists.  We read of bishops, Greek episkopos, who oversaw the church, but no Episcopalians.  We read of men trembling at the spoken word, but no Quakers.  We read of men all sharing the blessings of Pentecost, but no Pentecostals.  We read of brethren united in Christ, but no United Brethren.
“Greet one another with a holy kiss.
The churches of Christ greet you.”
Romans 16:16
Kevin L. Bush
(April 4, 1967 – October 7, 2009)


Kevin L.  Bush

Kevin L. Bush was born April 4, 1967 and passed away at 7:40 a.m., Wednesday, October 7, 2009 at his residence. He was 42, a native of New Orleans and a resident of Tickfaw.He is survived by his mother, Ivy Pearl Warden Bush, Pearl River; a lifetime companion, Stacie Arabie, Tickfaw; 2 daughters, Felicia Arabie and Felicity Arabie both of Tickfaw; a son, Kevin L. Bush, Jr., Tickfaw; a grandson, Landin Arabie, Tickfaw; a sister, Tammy Bush Chaisson and husband, Leonard, Sr., Mandeville; a niece, Brittany Chaisson, Mandeville; a nephew, Leonard Chaisson, Jr., Mandeville, many aunts, uncles and extended family.

Preceded in death by his father, Lester Lee Bush.

Visitation will be at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Monday, October 12, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. until Religious Services at 2:00 p.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel with Bro, Benton “Ben” Darron officiating. Interment in Our Lady of Pompeii Cemetery, Tickfaw.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55 & Hwy. 16W behind Mr. Tom’s Car Wash and Bond Eye Clinic.


Thank God for the gift of this day.  Use your gift well.
Anna Lee

Thursday

“Be anxious for nothing,

but in everything by prayer and supplication,

with thanksgiving

, let your requests be made known to God.”

~Philippians 4:6~

Pray for Fay Faller.  She’s seeing a doctor about her arm today.  Pray for good advice.

Pray for Dana Bales Graham and her family as Dana has a tumor removed today.

We haven’t heard from Braden yet.  Pray the arm is fine, the antibiotic is working, and the lungs are clearing.

Callie Cole:

Good afternoon,

This is Frances.  I have time for a very quick update.  Callie is off the ventilator!  She seems to be tolerating and doing well.  Also, her eyes are wide open.  She remains unconscious and in a coma but she is improving.  I anticipate what the medical field calls “neurological storming”.  So, keep praying.  This is our chance to demonstrate our faithfulness and just how much we love Him.  Remember, in good times or bad times we will praise Him!

God bless you,
Frances

Wednesday, October 7, 2009 3:14 PM, CDT

Quick update on Sophronia (my nickname for Callie; long story).  At the 12 o’clock visit they had removed the ventilator and Callie was breathing very well on her own.  She is still on 30% oxygen but other than that the respiration looks good.  She was sound asleep during the visitation and we could not rouse her, however the nurse on duty stated that Callie had opened her eyes wide open this morning but was non-responsive.  We would really like to see this for ourselves but we will have to take the nurses word for it for now.  Either way conscious or unconscious, eyes open has to be a good sign.  Thank you Lord and thanks to all of you who continue to lift her up to the Most High.

Tom

Baptist Press

October 7, 2009

WASHINGTON–Despite cash mismatch, Wash. Ref. 71 race tight.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31409

COLORADO–NAMB trustees tap Frank Page as VP of evangelization.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31408

GEORGIA–Ga. exec: SBC needs NAMB, Cooperative Program.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31410

VIRGINIA–IMB search committee seeks recommendations.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31411

TENNESSEE–Pastors polled on churches’ evangelism.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31412

TENNESSEE–CP EMPHASIS: Profiles of passion for cooperation.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31413

NORTH DAKOTA–CP EMPHASIS (FIRST-PERSON — Durward Garrett) Far more than a budget item.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31414

TEXAS–FIRST-PERSON (Mike Goeke): A challenge to the conservative church.
http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31415

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor

THE WORST DEFEAT in a college football game came on October 7, 1916, when Georgia Tech played Cumberland College of Tennessee…
The final score was 222 to 0.  The much smaller Cumberland players were mauled.
Cumberland had discontinued its football program before the season, but was not permitted to cancel its game against the Engineers.  The fact that Cumberland’s baseball team had crushed Georgia Tech earlier that year 22-0 (amidst allegations that Cumberland used professional players) probably accounted for Georgia Tech coach John Heisman’s running up the score on the bulldogs.
Cumberland received the opening kickoff and failed to make a first down.  After a punt, the Engineers scored on their first play.  Cumberland then fumbled on their next play from scrimmage, and a Tech player returned it for another touchdown.  The Bulldogs fumbled again the next time they had the ball, and Tech took two plays to score its third touchdown.  Cumberland lost nine yard on its next possession, then gave up a fourth touchdown two plays later.
The Engineerss led 63-0 after the first quarter and 126-0 at halftime.  Tech added 54 more points in the third quarter and 42 in the final period.  Cumberland’s longest play during the game was a 10-yard pass (on 4th and 22).  Tech scored on every one of its drives.

Sometimes our situation seems hopeless.  We’ve dropped the ball and we don’t feel like picking it up again and running with it.  We’ve been knocked down time and time again, and we just want to quit the game.  But what we feel like doing and what we should do are two different things.

“Let us not become weary in doing good,
for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”
Galatians 6:9 NIV

God loves us and walks along with us step-by-step.  Sometimes, he is there as a friend.  Other times as a guide.  He is an encourager some days.  Other days, he supports us and holds us up when we cannot keep going.  I’m so thankful he’s been there for me in all those capacities lately.  I depended on Him.  He did not let me down lately and never has!  What a friend!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

From Mrs. Ann Chapman

Hello everyone. I am improving daily. December 2, I will have another C
T scan of my neck.  I will then know if the halo can be removed,
hopefully the bones will be healed by then.
Please know how much our family thank you for your prayers for us. I
covet your continued prayers for my total healing. Also please pray for
Krisa. She continues to have high blood pressure problems since the
accident.
Our sadness is the lost of Quincy. He appeared to be he least injured in
the accident, so it has been quite a shock.
I now have a regular computer. My new email address is;
maac1933@live.com .
Please let me hear from you.
Love, Ann

Caring Bridge

Adrianna Cavanaghhttp://www.caringbridge.org/visit/adriannacavanagh     (2 posts)

Callie Colehttp://www.caringbridge.org/visit/calliecole

Colton Frazierhttp://www.caringbridge.org/visit/coltonfrazier

From Trisha Wall McCain

Chris (my sister) is in North Oaks also.  You may see Maurice, Kathy, or Mama roaming around.  She is in ICU.  She had a heart attack this afternoon and they put in two stints and did a balloon procedure. We are hoping they will put her in a room tomorrow.  Remember her in your prayers also.  Thanks!

Tricia McCain

Dorothy Smith

Momma had a better day yesterday.  Thank you for praying.  We expect an important doctor’s report this morning.  Please keep us in your prayers.

Mrs. Estelle E. Bridges
(November 7, 1921 – September 29, 2009)

Mrs. Estelle E. Bridges a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister was born on November 7, 1921 and passed away at 6:28 a.m., Tuesday, September 29, 2009 at St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. Mrs. Estelle was 87, a native of St. Helena Parish and a resident of Greensburg.

She is survived by a daughter, Janice Bridges Flynn, Atlanta; 2 sons, Vernon Bridges and wife, Karlette, Denham Springs and Robert O. “Oscar” Bridges and wife Dawn, Greensburg; a sister, Mary Nell Kliesch, Kentwood: a brother, Bobby Easley, Kentwood; 8 grandchildren; 7 great- grandchildren; and numerous nieces & nephews.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Thursday, October 1, 2009 from 6:00p.m. until 9:00p.m. and at the Greensburg United Methodist Church, Greensburg, on Friday, October 2, 2009 from 8:00a.m. until Religious Services at 11:00a.m. with Rev LaMarylis Cotten & Rev. Milton Kliesch officiating. Interment in the Greensburg Cemetery.

Preceded in death by her parents, Oscar & Lydia Lee Easley; husband, William Harvell “H” Bridges; brother, Huey Easley; 3 sisters, Mildred Megison, Melva Lee Gill, & Rucie Lea.

An on-line Guestbook and to view a video tribute are available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

Baptist Press

September 29, 2009

PHILIPPINES–Manila flooding poses relief challenge. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31350

MISSOURI–Gov. lauded for pregnancy funding. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31351

VIRGINIA–Volunteer nurses give shots for missions. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31352

ALABAMA–RESOURCE: ‘Molly’ imparts missions to kids. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31353

WASHINGTON–WORLDVIEW (Erich Bridges): Talk to Muslims — not at them. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31354

TENNESSEE–WHF ‘thank you’ video now downloadable. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31355

KANSAS–FIRST-PERSON (Phil Boatwright): A few (clean) movies worth watching. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31356

Friday

“In the day of my trouble I will call upon You,

for You will answer me.”

~Psalm 86:7~

Caring Bridge Sites

Since Friday nights are football nights for all our area schools, we can pray for the safety of players, the cheerleaders, the band members, the fans. and anyone else involved as people travel and participate in a game.  Pray for good sportsmanship as Christians set an example of the way to win or lose a game.

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

Let’s start some “loips”

Another group wants to start a “loip.” I think I’d like to start one too—how about you? Okay, I know you want to know what a “loip” is before you start one. It’s what the Samburu people of Kenya call a gathering where you hear God’s Word.  The word literally means “in the shade under the tree.”  That’s where the meetings take place.

Lots of people gather under trees and listen to missionary Charlie Daniels, and he tells them stories from the Bible.  He teaches them how to live a godly Christian life. Charlie wants us to pray for the people that go to the “loips.” Pray that they will understand the Gospel of Jesus.  He wants us to pray that they will accept Jesus as Savior when they hear him tell the story of Nicodemus.

Charlie Daniels also wants us to pray for other people to tell the Bible stories.  Ask God to help the Samburu people go to other places and to people who have never heard the stories of God.  Pray that they will be godly men and teach others well.

I still think I want to start a “loip”—how about you?

Prayer Requests from Missionary Kids

Please pray for my family to do a good job and help the people to become Christians. MICHAEL, age 7 (East Asian peoples)

Please pray for my best friend in school.  He believes in Jesus.  I want him to be safe.  FISHER, age 6 (American peoples)

We made it fine back to the states on a long airplane ride.  Now I am having problems sleeping.  I keep my twin sister, and mommy and daddy awake at night.  Pray I can learn to sleep at the right times and me and my sister and big brother will enjoy the new friends and family we will get to meet these next 6 months in the States. ROBERT, age 1 (European peoples)

Dear God:  please help my cats.  Amen.  AR, age 7 (Southeast Asian peoples)

None of my friends at school are believers.  They know I am a Christian, but they don’t think that’s a good thing because it makes me different.  Pray that God can use me to show them that the difference He makes is a good thing.  Also pray that I won’t be scared to tell them what I believe and why. AH, age 16 (Northern African and Middle Eastern peoples)

Please pray for my mom and my dad and help my dad not to be too busy.  DREW, age 6 (Sub-Saharan African peoples)

Help my brother to have fun at university.  TREVOR, age 10 (Sub-Saharan African peoples)

The country I live in is 99.95% Muslim by estimates, so my prayer is that many would come to Christ and the number of Christians would grow.  JOSH, age 12 (Central Asian peoples)

Help the Portuguese to know that God is real and powerful. ELAINA, age 9 (European peoples)

Please pray for help the Indians to become Christian. JAKE, age 10 (South Asian peoples)

For teenagers in general in South Africa…drugs and alcohol are popular things to do, that they would turn from that and that God would open their hearts so that they may find him.  For my family and I while we’re on furlough, that we can enjoy our time here.  For me as I begin college in the fall.  HOPE, age 18 (Sub-Saharan African peoples)

Please take time to read this article and pray.  You’ll change your outlook too!

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (David Sills): A September memorial day. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31327

Reminder: On Mission in Kentwood – Saturday at 8:30 A.M.

  • Report a need for assistance
  • Volunteer to help (and be a changed person by noon)

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“God shall bless us,

and all the ends of the earth shall fear Him.”

Psalm 67:7

Mason Carter’s surgery yesterday went well.  Pray the both Mason and Adam continue to get good reports.

Please add Ray Ydarraga to your prayer list.  He has been undergoing and continues to be undergoing some medical tests.

CaringBridge sites

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/adriannacavanagh

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/coltonfrazier

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/calliecole/journal

Baptist Press

September 18, 2009

FLORIDA–Principal, A.D. avoid jail time for prayer. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31282

NEW MEXICO–Economic woes increase demand on hunger ministries across U.S. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31283

TENNESSEE–TRUSTEES: ERLC board commits to pray for SBC task force. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31284

FLORIDA–IMB appoints 60 new missionaries. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31285

NORTH CAROLINA–Directors of missions nurture their unity. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31286

WASHINGTON–LIFE DIGEST: Abortion funding in health care hurts support. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31287

WASHINGTON–Care denied for preemie. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31288

TEXAS–Texas board: Keep Christmas in textbooks. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31289

MAINE–Poll: Gay marriage opponents lead in Maine. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31290

MISSOURI–Church mourns loss of youth pastor. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31291

GEORGIA–FIRST-PERSON (part 5) (Mike Licona): Why were the four N.T. Gospels selected and not others? http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31292

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): More evidence of media bias. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31293

Georgia Barnette Mission Offering for Louisiana

Day 7 – Forest Hispanic Mission

“…for we are laborers together with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9

ForestHispanic-pgThe last phrase of Matthew 28:19-20, “…lo I am with you always, even to the end of the world,” reminds us that we are not alone as we take our part in the Great Commission. Paul uses the word “together” to remind us that we do not work alone.

Two reasons Pastor Isidro Hernandez and Director of Missions Jay Morgan serve at Forest Hispanic Mission are the growing Hispanic population in our state and their love for the Lord’s people.

The work at Forest began as a ministry to a large group of Hispanic farm workers, and it grew into a church plant. There are needs for Bible studies, programs for women and children, equipment, materials and supplies. Discipleship is important because the people come for a while, then they often go to a job in another state or even to another country.

Bro. Hernandez and the people of Bayou Macon and Madison associations know the importance of “together” in this ministry. Louisiana Baptists, through the Georgia Barnette State Missions Offering are part of this partnership also. While our gifts are important to this and other language works, so are volunteering and praying.

  • Thank God for those who serve Hispanic congregations throughout our state.
  • Pray for the lost people to come and for many opportunities to teach and disciple.
  • Pray for the economic situations that tend to have priority in the lives of people who need ministry at Forest. Pray that as their needs are met, there will be opportunities to share Christ.

As a person who sometimes worries too much, I got both a reminder and a laugh from this:

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor
“I HAVE A mountain of credit card debt,” one man told another…

“I have lost my job.  My car is being repossessed and our house is in foreclosure, but I am not worried about it,” exclaimed his friend.  “I’ve hired a professional worrier.  He does all of my worrying for me, and that way I don’t have to think about it.”

“That’s fantastic!  How much does your professional worrier charge for his services?”

“$50,000 a year,” he replied.

“$50,000 a year?!  Where are you going to get that kind of money?!”

“I don’t know,” came the reply.  “That’s his worry…”

“Which of you by worrying can add one cubit to his stature?”
Matthew 6:27
Have a good day as you prepare physically and spiritually for the Lord’s Day.  Thank-you for “tuning in” to The Prayer Link.  May it always be a blessing to others and useful ministry for God’s glory!
Anna Lee

Sunday

“Let God transform you into a new person

by changing the way you think.”

~Romans 12:2 NLT~

Week of Prayer for State (Louisiana) Missions – Sept. 13-20

Day 1 – Main Street Mission, Pineville

“…for we are laborers together with God.” 1 Corinthians 3:9.

MainStreetMission-pgPaul uses the word “we” inclusively, bringing every believer into the picture. He addresses all believers with a heart for making a difference. Believers have the responsibility to be on mission to spread God’s Good News of salvation and eternal life to the lost and unchurched in Louisiana.

At 3:00 on a hot July Thursday, the last thing a mission pastor wants to hear is the “clank, clank, clank,” of an air conditioner fan as it slowly quits turning or to discover a ceiling leak after an extremely bad thunderstorm. He whispers a prayer plea – “Who do I call now, Lord?”

We Louisiana Baptists meet this type of need through the Georgia Barnette State Missions Offering. Ask Herb Cady of Pineville’s Main Street Mission. An emergency grant, matched by funds from the sponsoring church, First Baptist, Pineville and North Rapides Baptist Association helped replace their leaking roof two summers ago.

This is only one of the many mission churches to receive emergency assistance. When you pray today, bringing Herb Cady’s prayer requests to the throne of the One who knows our every need, pray that we will recognize the importance of faithful giving to meet emergencies.

  • Thank God for the fact that emergency needs and equipment needs can be and are met.
  • Pray that children and their families will hear the Gospel and respond to God’s offer of salvation as Herb Cady and others work with them.
  • Pray that volunteers will hear and respond to God calling them and answer as Isaiah did, “Here am I, Lord, send me.” (Isaiah 6:8).

Adrianna Cavanaugh

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/adriannacavanagh

Please continue to pray for Clarence Johnston and his family. Clarence was unable to receive the lung transplant the other night due to the fact the lungs were filled with puemonia. Continue to pray for a donor or some type of treatment will come available for him. This is a very difficult time for his family.

Laura DeBeblanc

Baptist Press

September 11, 2009

WASHINGTON–Rep.: Plan would lead to abortion increase. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31239

CAIRO–During Ramadan, Egypt arrests 155. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31240

TENNESSEE–INTERNATIONAL DIGEST: Convictions overturned for jailed Mexican Christians. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31241

LOUISIANA–9/11 REVISITED (First-Person): Just another day …. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31242

ILLINOIS–9/11 REVISITED (First-Person): A thought experiment. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31243

TEXAS–WEDGWOOD REMEMBERED: Shootings, 10 years ago, gripped pastor’s grief, theology. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31244

TEXAS–WEDGWOOD REMEMBERED: SWBTS remembers victims. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31245

TEXAS–WEDGWOOD REMEMBERED: Shooting killed 7. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31246

GEORGIA–NAMB staff goes to the mission field. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31247

Isabelle “Tizzi” Scarle Eckholdt
(August 15, 1944 – September 10, 2009)

Died on Thursday, September 10, 2009 at Acadian Medical Center in Eunice, LA. She was a native of Amite, LA and a resident of Eunice, LA. Age 65 years. She was a member of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Sunday and from 11 a.m. until religious services at 2 p.m. Monday. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. She is survived by son, Dr. Scott Eckholdt and his wife, Deborah, Eunice; 2 granddaughters, Ashton and Madison Eckholdt; 2 brothers, G. M. “Porgy” Scarle, III, Fluker and Marshall “Mike” Scarle, Mandeville. She was preceded in death by her parents, George Milford Scarle, II and Isabelle Bethune Kent Scarle. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donation to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Louisiana Chapter, 4613 Fairfield St., Metairie, LA 70006  LINK.

Dora Nell Martin Cannon
(July 28, 1933 – September 11, 2009)

Dora Nell Martin  Cannon

Mrs. Dora Nell Martin Cannon a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and sister was born July 28, 1933 and passed away at 6:15 a.m., Friday, September 11, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was 76, a native of Walthall County, MS and a resident of the Mt. Nebo Community.

Mrs. Nell is survived by her husband, Earl K. Cannon, Mt. Nebo; 3 sons, Terry Cannon and wife, Pam, Ponchatoula; Randy Cannon and wife, Wanda, Amite; Marty Cannon, Mt. Nebo; a sister, Patricia Kinsella, Covington; a brother, Arnold Martin, Franklinton; 5 grandchildren, Kyra McDaniel and husband Chris, Mt. Nebo, Alissa Cannon, Mt. Nebo; Whitney Cannon, Wilmer; Justin Cannon and wife, Meshelle, Amite; Jennifer Richmond, Amite; 8 great-grandchildren, Kallin McDaniel, Kayden McDaniel, Raven Cannon, Devin Conti, Olivia Wascom, Gabrianna Cannon, Abbrianna Cannon, and Donovan Meyn.

Preceded in death by her parents, Clydie & Bertie Martin; a grandson, Ryan Cannon; a brother, J C Martin and a sister, Melva Martin Sandifer.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Saturday, September 12, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. until Religious Services in the funeral home Chapel at 12:00 Noon with Rev. Larry Blades officiating. Interment in the Dees Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Justin Cannon, Chris McDaniel, Randy Cannon, Terry K. Cannon, Reed Dees & Joe Wayne Sandifer.

An on-line Guestbook and to view a Video Tribute is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N and Hwy 16W behind Mr. Tom’s Express Car Wash & Bond Eye Clinic.
PEACEFUL COEXISTENCE?

The story is told of a Russian named Ivanovich who visited the Moscow zoo for the first time.  To his amazement, he found a little lamb sharing the cage with a big fierce lion.

Ivanovich expressed surprise to his guide.  The guide smiled and said, “That is peaceful coexistence.”

When Ivanovich shook his head in a doubtful way, the guide explained, “Of course, we have to put in a fresh lamb every morning.”

As much as we should strive for peace, there are some things which simply cannot coexist peacefully — truth and error, righteousness and ungodliness, morality and immorality.  If we try to combine two such things in our lives, they will only coexist “peacefully” only if one gobbles up the other.  That’s why James was so forceful in his warning:

“You adulteresses, do you not know that friendship with the world is hostility toward God?  Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God.” (James 4:4, NASB)

This verse frightens me more than just about any verse in the entire Bible, because I see the influence that “the world” has on me and on Christians around me.  We have just as much interest in accumulating “things” as the world does.  We often don’t do a better job of taking care of those in need than the world does.  We worry just as much as the world does.  We value the same things as the world does.  We imitate the world to such an extent that if you were to go into an average workplace and ask the boss, “Which of these men and women working for you are Christians?”, he wouldn’t be able to identify us.

Let us beware lest we make the mistake of thinking that our association with and imitation of “the world” doesn’t affect our relationship with God.  Some things can’t live in peaceful coexistence, and “whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy of God”!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a great Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Friday

“You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what he has promised.

For in just a very little while,

‘He who is coming will come and will not delay.’”

~Hebrews 10:36–37 NIV~

Averi Strickland has been able to be at school this week.  Who would have predicted that after his recent stroke?  His progress is an answer to prayers!

IMB Connecting

Lottie Moon shortfall limits Gospel access, leaves missionaries on hold Tim and Audrey Shepard (names changed) were ready to go to Asia as Southern Baptist missionaries. Then they got a call that told them their appointment had been put on hold. There wasn’t enough money to send them. “You feel sort of directionless,” said Audrey. “We really don’t know what to do now.” On the field, missionaries Sam and Elizabeth Hughes (names changed) were counting the days ’til the Shepards arrived. “I’ve got a list as long as I am tall of things I need them to be doing,” Sam says.

Giving shortfall risks southern Baptists’ opportunity to re-engage closed country.  A rare opportunity to place missionaries in a highly restricted Central Asian country may soon slip through Southern Baptists’ fingers due to a serious shortfall in missions giving. Shane and Melanie Johnson (names changed) were on track to become the first Southern Baptist personnel to serve inside the country in nearly a decade. But now that plan is in jeopardy. Financial restrictions are leading to at least a six-month delay. During that time, the window of opportunity to get into the country could close. And the Johnsons — with a baby on the way — are looking at some financial hardships themselves.

“After 2,000 years of Christian history and concerted mission efforts, why do so many areas of our world remain untouched by the Gospel? … Could it be that one of the barriers to reaching these pockets of lostness is the lack of financial resources?”
Jerry Rankin, president, IMB

FYI:  Dr. Jerry Rankin will be speaking at FBC, Kentwood later this fall.  You will be invited to attend so you can hear his report on the Interantional Mission Board.  What an opportunity!  David and I have heard him speak more than once.  He has insight we can all profit from.

Colton Frazier

Wednesday, September 2, 2009 2:12 PM, CDT

The Therapist came in to work with him.  We sat him up on side of the bed again.  He did good sitting up with all our help but was a little tired today. We asked him if he wanted to lay back down  to raise your right thumb.   Well let me tell you the thumb came straight up, he was ready to lay down.  Everything else is still good.

Thursday, September 3, 2009 9:56 PM, CDT

Well all and all Colton had a good day.  The therapists sat him in  a big chair this morning.  He looked good sitting there.  Had Good responses from that. The rest of the day he was tired and had to rest. At the 8pm visit we raised his head from the pillow and he opened his eyes a little and we told him to move his hand and give us a thumbs up.  Guess what, he did, then asked again and he raised his whole arm and thumb.  It was a great way to tell us good night.

Wednesday, September 2, 2009 2:12 PM, CDT

The Therapist came in to work with him.  We sat him up on side of the bed again.  He did good sitting up with all our help but was a little tired today. We asked him if he wanted to lay back down  to raise your right thumb.   Well let me tell you the thumb came straight up, he was ready to lay down.  Everything else is still good.

Baptist Press

September 3, 2009

MAINE–Maine set for historic ‘gay marriage’ vote. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31191

TEXAS–Humans are never ‘too expensive … too inconvenient,’ Land says. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31192

GEORGIA–Ga. pastor shot, killed by undercover police. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31193

WASHINGTON–Abortion doc reports threat; arrest follows. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31194

TENNESSEE–Young adults’ spirituality explored. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31195

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Rob Phillips): Why the Kingdom still matters. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31196

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (R. Albert Mohler Jr.): NIV will require ‘attentive study.’ http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31197

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor
JEAN ROSENSTEIN SAT down at a small table in her cramped, one-bedroom apartment and painfully put her thoughts on paper…
The arthritis in her fingers made the writing difficult and painful, but she continued.  The scrawled words read, “I’m so lonely I could die.  So alone.  I cannot write.  My hands and fingers pain me…I see no human beings.  My phone never rings…I’m so very old, so very lonely.  I hear from no one…Way past eighty years.  Should I die?  Never had any kind of holidays, no kind.  My birthday is this month…Sometimes I even feel sure the world ended, and I’m the only one on earth.  How else can I feel?  Oh, dear God, help me.  Am of sound mind, so lonely, very, very much.  I don’t know what to do.”
She put the letter in an oversized yellow envelope along with some money and six stamps and mailed it to the Los Angles Times newspaper.  The money was to pay for the call if someone would just call to talk to her.  The stamps were for anyone who would take the time to write.  In a city surrounded by millions of people, Jean Rosenstein felt alone.  And what happened?  First, a reporter called and said he would like to visit.  Mrs. Rosenstein was delighted.  She had not had a visitor for a long, long time.
She described her painfully accurate situation to the reporter.  “If you are alone, you die every day…Sometimes I just dread to see myself wake up in the morning.”  The newspaper printed her letter along with a story.  Within days thousands of letters and cards poured into the little apartment.  Visitors began to stream in and out to talk to the lonely lady who had no friends.  So many people called that she finally had to take the phone off the hook.  Letters came from elderly people, young couples sent pictures of their children.  People responded from all over the world.  She said, “This will last a lifetime.”
THOUGHT: How many Mrs. Rosensteins are in the city which you live–some lost in vast cities, some in convalescent hospitals, some in shabby apartments, some on farms–all forgotten people, forgotten by children and former acquaintances, forgotten by people who are too busy to care?  All that is necessary to destroy loneliness is the one real friend.  If there is a Jean Rosenstein living near you, a person who needs your friendship as badly as you need to extend it?  Take a look, friend, and reach out to that person.  (Harold J. Sala)

“A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.” Proverbs 18:24
Have a fantastic Friday!
Anna Lee

Saturday

“You also must help us by prayer,

so that many will give thanks on our behalf

for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.”

~2 Corinthians 1:11, ESV~

Ms. Ola King, a teacher at KHS, has been hospitalized for a week due to pneumonia.  Please pray for her to recover soon and return to her family and her school family.

Ms. Rose Williams, a former KHS teacher, is the primary caregiver for her husband who has suffered several health problems including a stroke.  Pray for them as they go through an especially tough time.

Now that school has started and football season is beginning please pray for faculty, staff, students and parents in a new school year.

Baptist Press

August 21, 2009

KENYA–Starvation continues to stalk millions of Maasai in Kenya. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31121

WASHINGTON–Obama could stop abortion confusion, Land says. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31122

WASHINGTON–Q&A: Abortion & the health care plan. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31123

LOUISIANA–Hispanic conference focuses on revival. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31124

TEXAS–Prof stays at church with ‘gay’ members. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31125

WASHINGTON–LIFE DIGEST: Scientists pursue artificial human brain. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31126

TENNESSEE–LifeWay seeks tenants for historic Frost Bldg. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31127

TEXAS–FIRST-PERSON (Anne Fortenberry): Ramadan -– a Christian’s perspective. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31128

NORTH CAROLINA–FIRST-PERSON (Timothy Rogers): Covenant or confession. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31129

Mrs. Evelyn Lea

(Died August 21, 2009)

Mrs. Evelyn Lea passsed away at 2:06 p.m. Friday, August 21, 2009 at the North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W behind Mr. Tom’s Car Wash & Bond Eye Clinic

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor

IN HIS LITTLE book Fully Human, Fully Alive, author John Powell relates an experience which happened to a friend while he was vacationing in the Bahamas…

The friend was sightseeing when he noticed a crowd gathered toward the end of a pier.  He walked down to investigate the commotion.  Powell says:

“…he discovered that the object of all the attention was a young man making the last-minute
preparations for a solo journey around the world in a homemade boat.  Without exception everyone on the pierwas pessimistic.  All were actively volunteering to tell the ambitious sailor all the things that could possibly go wrong.  “The sun will BROIL you!”  “You won’t have enough food.”  “That boat of yours won’t withstand the waves in a storm.”  “You’ll never make it.”

When my friend heard all these discouraging warnings to the adventurous young man, he felt an irresistible desire to offer some optimism and encouragement.  As the little craft began drifting away from the pier towards the horizon, my friend went to the end of the pier, waving both arms wildly like semaphores spelling confidence.  He kept shouting: “BON VOYAGE!  You’re really something!  We’re with you!  We’re proud of you!”

How much could be accomplished if there were more brave souls on the end of the pier smiling and affirming? (Charles Swindoll)

“But exhort one another daily, while it is called “Today,” lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.” Hebrews 3:13 ESV
Make a point of encouraging at least one person today.
Anna Lee

Friday

“Each of us finds our meaning and function as a part of his body.”

~Romans 12:5 MSG~

Trisha and Dwayne Wilson shared this good report on their mission trip.  Thank God for their opportunity and willingness to minister.
GAIN Team

El Salvador

June 27- July 6, 2009

·         600 GAiN CarePacks with backpacks distributed

Each pack contained: backpack, school supplies, hygiene items, 1 Beanie Baby,
1 New Testament, and 1 pair of Children’s sandals.

·         1075 CarePacks distributed with a Beanie Baby, and 1 pair of adult
sandals for family.

·         1300* Bibles distributed (There is about ½ case of bibles left that
Enrique will distribute)

·         425 estimated families received a bag of food. The bags were about
12-15 lbs of rice, beans, pasta, and soup mix

·         Estimated 2200 individuals (Children and Adults and a few wandering
dogs) heard the Good News of Jesus Christ.

·         80 GAiN Seed packets used at the Achiotal School.

Pray for the Lockwood family and the Pittman family as David and Chuck continue their battles with cancer.

Maggie Lee Henson’s mother placed some comments on Caring Bridge.  http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maggieleehenson

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

Kids love VBS

In Guadalajara, Mexico, children are baptized as babies.  A 12-year-old Mexican girl was really surprised when she learned that Baptists are baptized after they accept Jesus as Savior.  She was going to Vacation Bible School and learned about baptism and more about Jesus through Bible study, music, crafts and games.

One night during the week of Bible school, the leaders wanted to show an evangelistic Christian film.  Evangelistic is a big word, but it just basically means that you want to tell others about Jesus so they can love Him too. The movie would have encouraged the kids in VBS and their parents to tell others about Jesus. Three people from the neighborhood came to protest the film.  Unfortunately the projector was broken.  Let’s pray that they get to show the movie some other time.

At the final program for Vacation Bible School, 15 parents came to hear the 62 children sing and repeat Bible verses. Yes, just like you, kids in Mexico love VBS too!

This story comes from the Operation GO team.  If you want to learn more about them, ask your parent’s permission then visit their website: http://macopgo.blogspot.com/

Prayer Requests from Missionary Kids

Please pray for the Wa people.  They are poor, and only a few of them know about Jesus.  They are like Chinese people, but their language is different.  MN, age 6 (Southeast Asian peoples)

Pray for my friend in Pakistan, that she’ll learn about Jesus.  MARLA, age 7 (South Asian peoples)

My prayer request is about my school.  My whole school will be moving this year.  I hope we will be safe there.  CW, age 10 (East Asian Peoples).

Please pray for my family to be safe in the US. Benjamin, age 6 (American peoples)

I have lots of prayer requests:
My grandma has cancer.
Friend’s grandpa not Christian.
Deaf people.
Most people are Catholic in Malta.
Please pray for our family as we serve God and love our family.  KATHRYN, age 8, (European peoples)

Hi, my name is Christian.  I would like you to pray for my family as we struggle our way through life and as we have bad times.  I would like for me and my sister to get along.  I also have some Tanzanian friends who are not Christian.  Please pray for my dogs so that they can be well taken care of and live a long time.  Please pray for me and my family.  CHRISTIAN, age 12 (Sub-Saharan African peoples)

Pray for more people to become Christians.  HOPE, age 8 (East Asian Peoples)

Baptist Press

August 20, 2009

ISRAEL–Huckabee, in Israel, pushes one-state solution. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31106

WASHINGTON–In reducing abortions, 2 bills take drastically different tactics. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31107

WASHINGTON–Pro-lifers: Rep. Tim Ryan, his bill not pro-life. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31108

MINNESOTA–Piper: tornado a ‘warning’ to Lutherans about approving sin. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31109

KENTUCKY–Mohler: SBC must be willing to change or face decline. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31110

ALABAMA–FIRST-PERSON (Bob Terry): What will SBC membership be? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31111

MONTANA–Long recovery ahead for missionaries injured in Mont. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31112

VIRGINIA–Giving shortfall risks opportunity to re-engage closed country. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31113

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Keith Manuel): Prayer in school. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31114

GEORGIA–Former NAMB president issues statement. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=31105

David L. Sibley

(Died August 20, 2009)

David L. Sibley 29, passed away at 10:57 a.m., Thursday, August 20, 2009 at the North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W behind Mr. Tom’s Car Wash & Bond Eye Clinic.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10
Mike Benson, Editor
Henri Nouwen (Making All Things New) believes Jesus isn’t saying we should forget about our responsibilities and live happily ever after, ignoring the schedules and activities that make up our daily lives…

Jesus’ response to the rat race is different.  He wants us to center our attention on something else that is much more important.  Instead of being frustrated by too many items on our to-do lists, He asks that we focus on “one necessary thing.”  He isn’t asking us to leave the world but to live in it with a new sense of prioritites: “Jesus’ does not speak about a change of activities, a change in contacts, or even a change of pace.  He speaks about a change of heart.’
The rest of the book explores what it means to have a true “change of heart.”  Does it mean getting up an hour earlier in the morning to be sure to have devotions?  Working fewer hours?  Taking a time management course?  All those ideas are good ones, but the change of heart that Nouwen speaks of goes deeper than that.
The fast lane is a state of mind, not a certain ribbon of concrete between home and work.  If we want to choose “the better part,” we need to start by following Jesus around to see where He goes and what He means.
Are you a Martha?  A Mary?  Somewhere in between?  Are you controlling your schedule, or does it control you? (Fritz Ridenour)
“And Jesus answered and said to her,
“Martha, Martha, you are worried and troubled about many things.
But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part,
which will not be taken away from her.”
Luke 10:41, 42