Category: Baptist Press

Thursday

“But from there you will seek the Lord your God,

and you will find Him

if you seek Him with all your heart

and with all your soul.”

~Deuteronomy 4:29~

Mrs. Faye Price continues to slowly improve. The doctors are now talking about being able to move her from ICU soon. Thank you for your prayers. Continue to pray.

Jimmy Schwartz has been to the doctor this week and is doing better. Continue to pray for Jimmy.

Quinton West, the son of a KHS secretary, is hospitalized in New Orleans. Please pray for him and his famiy.

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell continues to have problems that have sent her to the hospital again. Please continue your prayers for her and for Mr. Phillip.

Continue to pray for Mr. Tut Young and his family as he makes decisions about treatment.

Pray for Mrs. Parmys Stegall as she continues to recover from her fall and surgery. Pray for her caregivers too.

We have a request to pray for a mother and two young sons as the family goes through a divorce.

Gaza Pastor Gives Update from War Zone
By Staff

RICHMOND, Va. (BP)–No Christians in Gaza have been injured despite living in hard-hit areas, a Baptist pastor there reported to Baptist Press late in the afternoon Jan. 6.

News staff at Christianity Today, meanwhile, were reporting three Christians have died since the hostilities began in Gaza Dec. 27 but Baptist Press has not yet independently confirmed the circumstances of those deaths. One death was attributed to a heart attack but no supporting information was provided about the deaths of the other two individuals named.

Lack of food, water and electricity is a major concern for the population, the Baptist pastor said.

The pastor (name withheld for security reasons) asked that Southern Baptists pray for a quick and peaceful resolution of the strife between Israeli and the Palestinian Hamas faction.

Israel tentatively welcomed a proposal Jan. 7 from Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and French President Nicolas Sarkozy calling for a Gaza cease-fire to allow aid to reach Palestinian civilians, the Associated Press reported.

The temporary cease-fire took place in the “whole of the Gaza Strip” Jan. 7, Israeli Defense Ministry spokesman Peter Lerner told CNN. The truce is scheduled to take place every other day for a three-hour time span until a permanent resolution is formed.

Israel will continue its discussions with Egypt and France about how to achieve an extended cease-fire.

(Reported by the Richmond, Va., bureau of Baptist Press.)

FBC, Kentwood

* Deacons for the Week – Robert Wilson & Tom Brister

* “Miracle on Main Street” DVDs available for $5.00 in church office

* AWANA begins again Sunday at 4:45 P.M.

*WMU association meeting at FBC Monday, Jan. 19 at 10:00; Gloria Wheat Thompson – speaker; covered dish lunch

* Adult discipleship resumes Sunday @ 5 P.M. with “How to Pray for Your Family”.

*On Mission in Kentwood – Saturday at 8 P.M.

*Baby shower for Lauren H. Fowler @ 2 P.M. Jan. 18

*So far $14,220 has been given toward the $18,500 goal for the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.


After seeing “Fireproof” Sunday, this devotional may act as a reinforcement or reminder to you.

SEVEN AGES OF A MARRIED COLD

I first saw today’s bit of humor a number of years ago in Bulletin Digest, which relayed an article that first appeared in Saturday Evening Post a number of years before that. It reveals a sequence of actions where a husband reacted to his wife’s colds during seven years of marriage.

1st year cold: The husband said, “Sugar dumpling! I’m really worried about my baby girl! You’ve got a bad sniffle and there’s no telling about these things with all the strep going around. I’m putting you in the hospital this afternoon for a general check-up and a good rest. I know the food is lousy there, so I’ll be bringing you food from Tosini’s. I’ve already got it all arranged with the floor superintendent.”

2nd year cold: “Listen, darling! I don’t like the sound of that cough! I’ve called Dr. Miller to rush over here. Now you go to bed like a good little girl just for Poppa.”

3rd year cold: “Maybe you better lie down, Honey. Nothing like a little rest when you feel lousy. I’ll bring you something. Do you have any canned soup?”

4th year cold: “Now look dear, be sensible! After you’ve fed the kids, washed the dishes and finished vacuuming, you’d better lie down.”

5th year cold: “Why don’t you take a couple of aspirin?”

6th year cold: “If you’d just gargle or something, instead of sitting around barking like a seal!”

7th year cold: “For Pete’s sake, stop sneezing! Are you trying to give me pneumonia!?”

Things do change over the years, don’t they? But they don’t have to. May I encourage those of you who are married to do something special for your spouse today. Write a sweet note or buy a card. Pick up some flowers or a small gift (yes, I know, be prepared for a response like, “What did you do now, wreck the car?”). Just make a conscious effort not to take one another for granted.

Those of you who aren’t married, sorry, I have no words of wisdom for you today. But, print this out and save it. Who knows when it may come in handy! 🙂

“Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it.” (Ephesians 5:25)

“…admonish the young women to love their husbands….” (Titus 2:4)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thank you for praying. You impact many lives! Have a terrific Thursday!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened,

and I will give you rest.

Take my yoke upon you and learn from me,

for I am gentle and humble in heart,

and you will find rest for your souls.

For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

Matthew 11:28-30 (NIV)

Mrs. Faye Price is improving. Continue to pray for her, the medical staff caring for her, and the family. (Her surgery was five weeks ago today.)

Mr. Raymond Anthony seems to have had one problem after another the past few months. Pray for him and his wife, “Miss” Velma, as she cares for him.

Joshua Reece

Thank you for praying for Joshua. Read the great news below but continue to pray for his complete healing.

Love,

Melinda

Dear Prayer Partners,

We just got off the phone with our daughter, Heidi Reece, and she told us that Joshua is being released from the hospital. This is an amazing recovery sent down from above by our loving Heavenly Father. Joshua was taken to the hospital in Hannibal on Jan. 1st. Several hours later he was air-lifted to St. Louis by helicopter because he was in such terrible shape. Now, after only 5 and a half days of hospitalization, he is well enough to go home. Miracle!!

Of course, there are follow up visits and things that they want to see much improvement in, but for now, it is back home. Caleb, the big brother, will be waiting for his family to arrive. He has been in the care of David’s parents, out on the farm.

Thank you is not near enough to say to all of you faithful, praying friends. When we heard what the situation was, the only things we could do was to pray, and to ask others to pray. Since we asked, many of you have told us you were praying, and that you were asking your friends, church families, and prayer networks to pray. Only God knows how many people were praying for one little boy.

I am learning about the powerful answers that come from our powerful God, when we all unite in prayer on the same subject. May God richly bless you for what you have done for us.

Your grateful brother and sister in Christ, Bob and Margie Craig, Craiova, Romania

Mr. I. W. Simmons takes his last treatment Thursday. Pray for him as he completes this process.

Holly K. has safely arrived in West Africa. Thank you for praying. She is staying a a guest house and making purchases of items she will need in her new home. Please continue to pray for her as she continues to make adjustments and learn about what her responsibilities will be.

Paula Braud Guzzardo
(June 6, 1949 – January 5, 2009)

After a courageous battle with cancer, she passed away at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center on Jan. 5, 2009, at 3 a.m. She was born June 6, 1949. Paula was surrounded by loving family and friends. As a native and resident of Baton Rouge, she was an educator, business woman and Realtor. Visitation at St. Jean Vianney Catholic Church on Wednesday, Jan. 7, from 11 a.m. until funeral Mass at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Tom Ranzino, celebrant. Burial in Amite Cemetery, Amite. A celebration of Paula’s life will be held after the burial on Wednesday at the home of Paul and Diana Burns, 7381 Woodstock Drive, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Survived by her children, John Paul “J.P.” Guzzardo, Chad Nicholas Guzzardo and Erin Katherine Myers Guzzardo; father of children, Nick J. Guzzardo; grandchild, Ainsley Katherine Marie Hammack; mother, Edith Gainey Braud; and brothers, John J. Braud, Steven J. Braud and Charles R. Braud. She was predeceased by father, Paul H. Braud; and brother, Gary P. Braud. She was a graduate of Redemptorist High School and LSU with a master’s in education and history. Paula studied under the Jesuit Order at Millsaps College. A lover of great friends and family, she was a proud mother of three. Please send donations to The Sister Dulce Foundation, P.O. Box 77526, Baton Rouge, LA 70879. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

WEDNESDAY WINDOW ON THE WORLD – January 7, 2009

CARIBBEAN YOUTH. Team West writes: “We asked you to pray that a new work would be started in a neighborhood in Barbados. We are happy to announce that it began in November, had its second gathering in December, and will have the third on Jan. 11. God has opened many doors for sharing testimonies and doing acts of kindness in this neighborhood. Please continue to pray for His Spirit to move over this place and to do wondrous and mighty things in the lives of the residents.” http://www.macregion.org/

NEAPOLITANS OF ITALY (nee-uh-PAHL-uht-n). The Harvesting Naples Team writes: “There is already a small evangelical presence in Napoli (Naples); however, there has not been an emphasis on evangelism until recently. Churches are beginning to offer English Second Language (ESL) classes, Italian lessons and music lessons, as well as feeding the homeless as a way to reach others with the gospel. As we partner with the churches, we will have an opportunity to teach English lessons and feed the homeless. Please pray that the church members will support these new ministries, that there will be an interest in the language classes, and that the partnership between our team and the churches will prosper.” paulandmackenzie@gmail.com

CITY H, EAST ASIA. January is an important time in City H as families gather to celebrate the new lunar year. However, for new believers who made a recent decision to follow Christ, it is a spiritually difficult time. Many are sharing with their families for the first time that they have decided to follow Christ. And they will be ostracized, mocked and even beaten for their newfound faith. As a result of this persecution, some will fall away from Christ while others will bear this crushing burden alone. Pray for the strengthening and encouragement of these new brothers and sisters during this “spiritual dead zone” in the month of January. Pray especially for non-believing family members to come to faith in Christ when these believers share their testimonies and the gospel. prayfor.cityh@gmail.com

Baptist Message

January 6, 2009

TENNESSEE–Radio network gives Obama ad money to pro-life groups. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29612

ECUADOR–Unlikely church planters prove effective. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29613

ECUADOR–Former gang members now share Christ. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29614

ECUADOR–Changed man uses rap to spread the Word. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29615

ECUADOR–Ecuadorian house churches support own missionary. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29616

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (David E. Prince): A lesson about work over sausages. http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29617

THINGS WE KNOW FOR SURE

A newspaper editor was instructing a new reporter in some of the important details of his job. “Never state as a fact anything you are not absolutely sure about,” said the editor. “To avoid putting the paper in the position of stating something which it may not be able to prove, you should always use the words ‘alleged,’ ‘claimed,’ ‘reputed,’ ‘rumored,’ and so on, unless you know positively that everything is true as stated.”

The reporter was sent out to get society items, and soon thereafter the following paragraph appeared in the society column:

“It is rumored that a bridge party was given yesterday by a number of reputed ladies. Mrs. Smith, it is said, was hostess. The guests, it is alleged, with the exception of Mrs. Brown, who says that she comes from Illinois, were all local people. Mrs. Smith claims to be the wife of Alexander Smith, who is rumored to be doing a thriving business in town.”

It is important to know those things that we are absolutely sure of. That’s one of the reasons why the letter of I John was written. John had some things to say to those Christians who referred to themselves as “gnostics”. The Greek word “gnosis” means “knowledge” and these Christians thought they had more knowledge than “normal” Christians. John writes this letter to say (1) The Gnostics didn’t know nearly as much as they thought they knew; and (2) All Christians know those things which are of greatest importance (“I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it.”, I John 2:21)

Among the things which we can “know”:

“Now by this we know that we know Him, if we keep His commandments.” (I John 2:23)

“…We know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.” (I John 3:1)

“And you know that He was manifested to take away our sins, and in Him there is no sin.” (I John 3:5)

“By this we know love, because He laid down His life for us.” (I John 3:16)

“By this we know that we abide in Him, and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit.” (I John 4:13)

“These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life…” (I John 5:13)

“We know that we are of God, and the whole world lies under the sway of the wicked one.” (I John 5:19)

“And we know that the Son of God has come and has given us an understanding, that we may know Him who is true; and we are in Him who is true, in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God and eternal life.” (I John 5:20)

Take confidence in those things which you know to be true!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“We give thanks to You, O God,

we give thanks!

For Your wondrous works

declare that Your name is near.”

Psalm 75:1

Joshua and Paula Splane

Paula Splane asked that you put her nephew, Joshua Splane, age 22, on the prayer link. He is in ICU at Tulane. He has a shunt in his head and is having problems.

also, Paula fell last night a tore a tendon behind her knee and will be out of school this week and perhaps next week. Please put her on link also. Thanks,

Janet A. Hammons

Pray for Mrs. Catherine Yarborough as she continues to work to work to get pain relief. She is hopefully on the road to improvement.

Joshua Reece

Thank you so much for praying for Joshua. As you will read he is doing better but still has a ways to go in his recovery.

Melinda

Dear Prayer Partners,

God is answering your prayers for Joshua Reece, our grandson. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Like firemen, you heard the plea for help, and you ran to the rescue. Our Heavenly Father is full of mercy and grace, which He delights to pour out on His children. I talked with our son-in-law David, and received this report. Joshua has taken a 5 ounce bottle of formula, and has eaten about an ounce of solid food—the first intake by mouth in days. His IV for fluids has been disconnected, but is still in place just in case it is needed. The oxygen tube on his nose is still in place but has been reduced to almost no flow at all, since he is breathing on his own. He is coughing more now, which hurts his chest, which he does not like, but this is a sign that the congestion is beginning to break up in his lungs. His father, David, was playing some “peek-a-boo” with him, and he was chuckling, a little, so that is a sign that he is feeling some better.

Heidi and David have been able to get some rest and wish to thank all for their prayers for Joshua and for them. The different specialists are already making plans for follow up visits so they can analyze his development issues—-underweight, never crawled yet, fluid on the brain, etc. Because of this, please pray for wisdom from on high, that God would lead them to know how to help his little body grow. We all are so grateful for the excellent care given to him at Cardinal Glennon Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri. We highly recommend their services.

I knew that God had led us to gather the best Prayer Partner Network available, and once again, I want to thank you. We could do nothing from here but pray, and to ask others to pray. God was very faithful to us and His grace was more than sufficient. Please, communicate with your prayer networks our gratitude. We would consider it a privilege if you would give us your prayer requests and allow us to hold you up in prayer, too. All praise and glory and honor goes to our Great God and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen. Bob Craig—missionary

Don Denton

Don Update:

Don came home from the hospital on Friday. We again find ourselves so grateful to God for his mercy upon us. It was a long exhausting very tireing week. I am so grateful to my brother Steve and his precious wife Lynn for flying in from Texas to help out. We are so blessed. Joshua justs continues to be blessed by his family. We are so grateful to them for their generosity to us. We could not have made it through the week without them and I am most grateful to them.

We need more prayer. Don has numerous doctor appointments this week. Hopefully we can get to the bottom of why he continues to be so sick. We will have a few new “eyes” looking to help us. We are thankful for a doctor from Mayo who called me this week, a Dr. Whineshakker. He believes we need to continue asking questions. We are so thankful for Dr. Trotman for his passion and tenacity in not letting go of this. He is one of the finest doctors we have encountered. We know we are in excellent hands. And we know more than ever that God’s hand is upon us and directing us in a way that we know we will get answers.

Please pray for wisdom and discernment for these doctors and for us as we continue to ask the important question that need to be asked.

Sorry for the delay in the update. I literally got maybe three hours a night of sleep this last week. This next week will be a good week.

I will post as soon as we get more information.

Blessings to you our family and friends.

Diane


From the IMB:

PALESTINIAN ARABS OF THE MIDDLE EAST. Once again war is ravaging Gaza. Palestinian believers tell workers that it has never been as bad as it is right now. Hundreds have already been killed. There has been no electricity for a week. Food and water are in short supply. No one can sleep because the bombs fall all night. Ordinary people are terrified. Please pray that the violence will stop and that no more people on either side will be injured. Pray for those on both sides of this conflict whose hearts are hardened by hate and fear. Pray especially for those who are followers of Jesus. Pray that they will experience God’s peace in the midst of turmoil. Pray that they will find opportunities to share His peace with others.

LAST FRONTIER. Workers focused on a Last Frontier people group are planning a training conference for national partners. Join them in asking the Father to lead them to the right people to be invited. Ask that the learners will understand the information shared and will then be able to use the information to share with many members of the people group. Whenever there is an opportunity like this, there is always the challenge of gathering safely. Ask our Father to protect all the participants as they study together.

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. In early December, you were asked to intercede for J, who is carrying twins. She writes: “On Christmas Eve, we went in for a follow-up ultrasound and we could easily see two healthy babies with strong heartbeats! It’s been quite an emotional roller coaster after having lost a baby, then going for an ultrasound, expecting to see nothing, then seeing two instead! Most likely, the doctors think there were triplets and we lost one. The last couple of weeks we’ve been waiting and hoping that those two have been growing steadily and remaining healthy. Today’s ultrasound confirmed just that. We’re ecstatic that mother and babies seem perfectly healthy now and chances for another miscarriage continue to drop with each passing day. We’re scared to death of being the parents of five, but we also feel extremely blessed and fortunate. Thanks for your prayers!”

Larry Roberts
(August 27, 1944 – January 4, 2009)

I have fought the good fight and kept the faith. Mr. Roberts died at 9:55PM on Sunday, January 4, 2009 at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center in Independence, LA. He was a resident of Kentwood, LA. Age 64 years. Visitation at Greenlaw Baptist Church, Kentwood, from 8 a.m. on Tuesday until religious services at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Services conducted by Rev. Joseph Warden. Interment Roberts Cemetery, Osyka, MS. Survived by uncle and aunt, Wiltz Roberts, Sr. and Joan Roberts, Osyka, MS, numerous cousins, friends, and church family. Preceded in death by mother, Golda Davis, uncles, Lawrence, Bilbo, Alton, and Clyde Roberts, aunts, Jessie Hilbun and Tina Rodriguez. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Greenlaw Baptist Church, 14407 Greenlaw Baptist Church Road, Kentwood, LA 70444. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.
Baptist Press
January 5, 2009

TENNESSEE–Gaza Baptist Church damaged in air strike. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29605

WASHINGTON–Survey: Large majority favors abortion limits. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29606

CALIFORNIA–Rose Parade outreach yields Kingdom results. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29607

TENNESSEE–Rural church is missions ‘greenhouse.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29608

TENNESSEE–CP giving 4.99% behind ’08 pace. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29609

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Rebecca Powell) Spend more time around the table. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29610

FBC, Kentwood

– On Mission in Kentwood will work Saturday @ 8 A.M.

– AWANA will resume Sunday evening at 4:50.


Command

JUST BEFORE JESUS went to Calvary He said to His disciples, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” ( John 13:34, 35)…

Is it right for God to command us to love one another?

Imagine a young man on a college campus who sees and falls in love with a young lady. But she’s not the least bit interested in him. So, he goes up to her one day and says, “I command you to love me!” Can a man do that to a young lady? Of course not.

It’s important that we understand that Christian love is not an emotional feeling that we manufacture. But it means we treat each other the way God treats us. Christian love is not a matter of feeling, it’s a matter of willing. “For God so loved…that he gave” ( John 3:16). God’s love wasn’t a sentimental feeling, but it expressed itself in action.

How does God treat us? God forgives us, so we forgive one another. God is kind to us, so we are kind to one another. God receives us, so we receive one another. We may not have the same personalities, or we might not even have the same interests; but we willingly and deliberately treat each other the way God treats us. This helps us to understand what it means to love one another.

I’m going to have a difficult time washing your feet if I don’t love you. I’m going to have a difficult time forgiving you if I don’t love you. The interesting thing is this: the more we deliberately will to love one another, the more our feelings begin to change; and lo and behold, we even start to like one another. You may not want to spend a week’s vacation with some people, but you can still treat them the way God treats you. As we love one another more and more, we learn to like one another. We can get along with one another.

God commands us to love one another because He revealed to us His love. He said, “Greater love has no one than this, that a man lay down one’s life for his friends” ( John 15:13). “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us…For if when we were enemies we were reconciled to God through the death of His Son, much more, having been reconciled, we shall be saved by His life” ( Rom. 5:8, 10). Jesus gave us the perfect example of what it means to “love one another” by His life and by His death. His command to love one another shouldn’t be looked upon as a burdensome commandment ( 1 John 5:2, 3), but a joy. (Howell Ferguson)

KneEmail: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” ( John 13:34, 35).

Posted by Mike Benson at December 18, 2008 3:01 PM

Finally brothers, whatever is true,

whatever is honorable,

whatever is just,

whatever is pure,

whatever is lovely,

whatever is commendable—

if there is any moral excellence

and if there is any praise—

dwell on these things.

Philippians 4:8

Anna Lee

Tuesday

I know what it is to be in need,

and I know what it is to have plenty.

I have learned the secret of being content

in any and every situation,

whether well fed or hungry,

whether living in plenty or in want.

Philippians 4:12 (NIV)

Three posts yesterday concerning Don Denton:

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2008 10:49 AM, CST

Prayer Requests for Don:

  • Don was seen by his primary care physician this

morning – Don has significant increase in headache pain,

stiffness in neck and lower back and a rash again. He

is very dizzy and sick to his stomach again.

  • He will see neuro next week. If he continues w/

increase of these symptoms he will be seen sooner.

  • Pray that the doctors here will be able to get to the

bottom of this. We are also praying that they will conduct

MRI’s again to do comparisions.

We had a really good Christmas weekend, it was this morning

that Don woke up with these symptoms.

Blessings

Diane

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2008 11:01 PM, CST

Don Update

We spoke to another of Don’s doctors today who helped

clarify the severity of his pain, his dizziness and stiffness.

Don’s prednisone continues to be tapered down and this

weekend he is now down to a much smaller dosage. When

someone has inflammation of the nerves, brain and spine

and healing is still ongoing it could cause a reaction such

as this one. So Don’s meds have been increased to help.

By late this evening his pain was reduced.

Don’s body is so immunial suppressed that we have to be

very careful. He will see four different doctors next week

along with physical therapy. Please pray for the following:

  • All of his doctors will have the wisdom they need to
help with continued improvement. Don really can’t wait
to be back to work for the Spring semester and we are
hopeful for that.
  • Pray for healing of these nerve endings and
inflammation in brain and spine.
  • Don is showing improvement with regard to his
walking more with walker and less with wheel chair.
  • Pray for Joshua as he sees his daddy who has a day
like today and he becomes fearful. For a four year old this
is very scary and for an adult for that matter it is too.

This has been a long journey. I am asking you all to continue

to pray and believe that the good work that God continues

to do in Don will continue. I don’t believe that God has

brought us this far to leave us either. It can be so very

discouraging when a day like today happens for all of us.

My heart goes out to Don and Joshua when I see the

suffering. Joshua afraid that if he asks his daddy to “do

something” that his daddy will get sick and sleep for days

and it will be his fault. It breaks my heart to see my son hurt

like this.

Pray that I will have the wisdom, understanding, discernment,

love and acceptance that he needs.

I am here again, asking for God’s mercy upon us. Asking you

our friends to lift us up before God as we are in such need

these days. Waiting, Hoping and Believing.

Blessings to you our friends and family.

Diane

MONDAY, DECEMBER 29, 2008 11:34 PM, CST

This is a poem that a dear friend shared with me. I share it with you. It is truth and hope. Enjoy….

God, make me brave for life:

oh, braver than this.

Let me straighten after pain, as a

tree straightens after the rain,

Shining and lovely again.

God, make me brave for life;

much braver than this.

As the blown grass lifts, let me rise

From sorrow with quiet eyes,

Knowing Thy way is wise.

God, make me brave, life brings

Such blinding things.

Help me to keep my sight;

Help me to see aright

That out of dark comes light

Please continue to pray for Don, Diane, and Joshua Denton. The

“road” they have traveled on the last few months has be hilly, full of

curves, and blocked with many obstacles for them to mangage to

get over, under, around, and through. God has been with them on

this journey – each step of the way.

I’m sure the poem Diane shared will be meaningful to many of you.

You may need it now for yourself or someone else. You may not

need it today, but will in the future. Print it and tuck it away for that

day.

Baptist Press

December 29, 2008

ISRAEL–Baptists proclaim Gospel in Manger Square.

http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29577

OKLAHOMA–Exec recounts Hobby Lobby’s ministry.

http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29578

SOUTH CAROLINA–Billy Graham joins FBC Spartanburg.

http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29579

TENNESSEE–RESOURCE: 7 words of worship.

http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29580

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (R. Albert Mohler Jr.):

A generation immersed in media.

http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29581

Salvadore Ruffino, Sr.
(November 2, 1916 – December 28, 2008)

U.S. Veteran Died at 5:58 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2008 at Baton Rouge

General Medical Center in Baton Rouge. He was a native and resident of

Amite. Age 92 years. He was a U. S. Army Veteran of World War II. For many

years, Mr. Sam drove a school bus for Oak Forest Academy in Amite. Visitation

at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10 a.m. on Tuesday until religious

services at 1 p.m. Tuesday. Interment Colonial Mausoleum, Independence.

Survived by 3 daughters, Loretta Borde and her husband, Stanley, Tickfaw,

Frances Ann Nijoka and her husband, Barry, Greenwell Springs, Sandra

Petty and her husband Chuck, Prairieville, 1 son, Sal Ruffino, Jr., Amite,

7 grandchildren, Matthew Feder, Alisha Nijoka, Jared Nijoka and his wife,

Elisabeth, Mary Ann Cline and her husband, Trey, Elizabeth Orobono and

her husband, Fran, Maeghan Ruffino, Kristin Ruffino, 2 great-grandchildren,

Michael Ragan, Anna Cline, 1 sister, Mary Checchin, Lakemore, IL, 2 brothers,

Nunzio Ruffino, Amite, Louis Ruffino, Baton Rouge. Preceded in death by wife,

Anna Leto Ruffino, 5 sisters, Lucy Costanza, Pamela Alack, Stella Terracina,

Josie Burrell and Rose Ruffino; 3 brothers, John, Tony and Joe Ruffino;

parents, Louis and Laura Ruffino.

Debra Lynn Burkeens
(August 22, 1964 – December 26, 2008)

Debra Lynn Burkeens

Debra Lynn “Debbie” Woods Burkeens who will always be remembered and

loved by her son, family and friends was born on August 22, 1964 and passed

away at 7:42PM, Friday, December 26, 2008 at the St. Helena Parish Hospital,

Greensburg. She was 44, a native of Bay St. Louis, MS and a resident of

Montpelier. Debbie was the daughter of Edward Woods and the late Charlotte

Taylor Woods.

She is survived by a son, Nicholas Joe Zona and fiancée’, Ashley Bailey,

Temple, TX; father, Edward T. Woods and step-mother, Margaret Woods,

Walhalla, SC; 4 sisters, Mildred Smith and husband John W., III, Seneca, SC,

Brenda J. Murphy and husband, Mike, Pineville, LA, Rita Wells and husband,

Danny, Tickfaw & Cheryl Zwinkel, Seneca, SC; 4 brothers, Keith Woods and

wife, Debra, Seneca, SC, Dale Woods and wife Geneva, Ponchatoula, Joseph

“Joe” Woods and wife, Tammy, Independence, & Phillip Woods and wife,

Charlotte, North Carolina; 5 grandchildren & 30 nieces & nephews.

Preceded in death by mother, Charlotte Taylor Woods & husband, Thomas

Burkeens.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on

Tuesday, December 30, 2008 from 5:00PM until 9:00PM and on Wednesday,

December 31, 2008 from 8:00AM until Religious Services in the funeral

home Chapel at 11:00AM with Bro. Bobby Carroll officiating. Interment in

the Colonial Mausoleum.

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

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W

next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

PARENTS HAVE TO LIVE IT

At one point during a game, the coach said to one of his young players,

“Do you understand what cooperation is and what teamwork is all about?”

The little boy nodded in the affirmative.

“Do you understand that what really matters is not whether we win or lose,

but that we play together as a team?” The little boy nodded yes.

“Good,” the coach continued. “And, when a strike is called, or you’re

hrown out at first, you don’t argue, curse, attack the umpire with a bat, or

throw dirt in the opposing team members’ faces. Do you understand all that?”

Again the little boy nodded, “Well, sure, coach. That’s what you taught us.”

“Good,” said the coach. “Now, please go over there and explain all that to

your mother.”

I’ve been to a few Little League games when the above conversation needed

to take place! It’s sad to see parents who act in an irresponsible manner

because you know that they are teaching their children (and others’ children)

to behave in a similar manner.

God has given those of us who are parents an awesome responsibility —

not only to teach our children what is right, but to live in such a way that

they can see that we are willing to practice what we’ve been teaching them

to do.

Moses told the parents of Israel to take the laws which God had given

them and “teach them diligently to your children….” (Deut. 6:7). But before

telling parents to do that, he warned them: “Therefore hear, O Israel, and

be careful to observe it….” (Deut. 6:3).

Before we can teach a love of God and others to our children, it must be in

our own hearts. May God bless those of you who are parents as you strive to

do just that. May your life be so filled with a desire to follow God that your

children will be open to hear all that you have to say to them.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

I’ll post some updates later.

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

Saturday

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.” Luke 2:13-14 (NIV)

Faye Faller, former secretary of FBC, Hammond and a relative of mine, is hospitalized with heart rhythm problems. Please be in prayer for her.

Continue to pray for the Price family. I’ll post an update later.

Pray for all the school children who are beginning a two week holiday. Pray that they know in their hearts the reason they have this holiday. Pray for safety and security as well as a sense of being loved for each of them.

Pray for those who will be alone during the holidays. Do your part in helping them in any way you can.

Missions: It takes
a lot of faith
By Jerry Rankin

EDITOR’S NOTE: The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, with a goal of $170 million in gifts through Southern Baptist churches, will support the ministry of more than 5,300 missionaries worldwide appointed by the International Mission Board.

RICHMOND, Va. (BP)–Missionaries who raise their own support are often called “faith” missionaries in contrast with those sent out by denominational entities such as the International Mission Board, which provides support and benefits.

However, the IMB does not generate income to support the more than 5,500 missionaries overseas receiving financial support. We are totally dependent on the gifts of Southern Baptists.

It takes faith to believe God will provide $170 million through a once-a-year missions offering named after a 19th-century missionary. It takes faith to trust Southern Baptists to have a mission heart and allocate a percentage of their church gifts to the Cooperative Program.

Last year the IMB sent out 841 new missionaries — none were delayed in leaving for their field of assignment because they couldn’t raise funds. They followed God’s will, confident God would provide for their needs through our churches.

Earlier this year I had the privilege of meeting three young missionaries on our Xtreme Team in the jungles of Peru’s Amazon Basin. After a flight to a city in the northwestern part of the country, we flew in a chartered plane to a remote landing strip near the border with Brazil. Following a five-hour ride in a motorized canoe, we reached a Yaminahua village where the Xtreme team members had been living for a couple months.

Missionaries like these who have been sent out by the IMB are able to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth because of the faithful giving of Southern Baptists. Your support through the Cooperative Program and Lottie Moon Christmas Offering enables these young men to live among this indigenous people group, where there is now a thriving church.

It is a joy to represent the entity that serves the churches of our denomination by channeling support to those sharing the Gospel among the nations.

Never forget, it is a challenging world to which God is calling us to go and tell the Gospel. We cannot wait while multitudes enter eternity without Christ. I pray that we as Southern Baptists will be found faithful and obedient in our giving and will challenge the next generation to be faithful in fulfilling our missions task.

(Jerry Rankin is president of the International Mission Board. Gifts to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering to support Southern Baptists’ global outreach can be made at http://www.imb.org/offering.)

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

ON FEBRUARY 26, 1829, A Jewish boy named Loeb Strauss was born in a cottage in the Bavarian village of Buttenheim…

As a young man, Loeb changed his name to Levi and wound up in California where he opened a textile company in San Francisco. One day a gold miner walked into Levi’s shop and assailed the young merchant. “Look at these,” said the miner, pointing to the pants. “I bought ’em six months ago, and now they’re full of holes!”

When Levi asked why, the miner explained, “We work on our knees most of the time.”

What you need is some really strong material,” replied Levi. “We have some canvas. It’s used to make tents. If we make your trousers out of canvas, I’m sure they won’t get holes.”

A tailor was called, and presently the miner had a set of trousers — and the rest is history. Soon minors across the West were wearing Levi Strauss’s jeans. (Stephen Van Dulken)

Christians should have the same problem that plagued that miner — pants with worn-out knees — for we ought to do most of our kingdom work on our knees.

For this reason I bow my knees to the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Eph. 3:14).

Have a great day!
Anna Lee

Wednesday

“Behold, the virgin shall be with child, and bear a Son, and they shall call His name ‘Immanuel,’ which is translated, ‘God with us'” (Matthew 1:23, NKJV).

I missed seeing this update Sunday.
Update on Dustin Rosamond: Dustin is in ICU at Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans. Dustin had surgery to his lung yesterday (Saturday) to try to remove some of the “infection pockets” from his lung, he also has some bleeding and may have to have a transfusion, please continue to pray for him and his parents as they stay with him round the clock and for the rest of his family and friends as we all anxiously await his recovery. We know that God has a reason for allowing this to happen. Dustin is 13 and has his 14th birthday coming up in just days. Thank you for praying. I will keep you updated.

This is Tuesday’s update.
Update on Dustin Rosamond: Dustin is slowly continuing to get better followng surgery to his lung on Saturday. He still has a drain tube into his side and hopefully will get that out soon, they thought he would get that out yesterday but he keeps spiking a fever. He of course really wants to come home but pray for him to get really strong and healthy before he gets to come home and his patience so that he doesn’t end up having to turn around and go right back if he gets out too soon. Thank you all for all of your prayers. Please continue to pray for Dustin and for all of our family. Thank you again.

Mr. Cete Dillon’s medical procedure went well yesterday. The results also seem to be good. Thanks for praying for him.

Mrs. Faye Price continues her “roller coaster” ride to recovery. Please continue to pray.

Emily Panter is well enough to writer for herself now!
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Hello World!

The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble, and He knows those who take refuge in Him.

Nahum 1:7

Dearest Family and Friends in Christ,

How wonderful it is to be able to write to you. I apologize it has taken this long. I am trying to read the entire blog before I really express my heart to you, but I simply could not wait. We have dial-up so you know how that is, and there is just so much to read! (I am only to November 2nd.)

You all have blessed me more than you can know and I want to thank you for all of your thoughts, kindness, generosity, and above all for your prayers. “…and pray for one another, so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.” James 5:16b. I have felt your loving prayers and know that God has answered and shown Himself powerful and merciful, all for His glory. There were no circumstances or luck involved in this event, only the hand of our sovereign Father, lovingly answering the prayers of His people.

Please do not stop your prayers for me yet, as I face a long recovery and am very limited in the activities I am able to do. Pray that I am able to meet my children’s needs, and praise God for my wonderful husband who, through God’s grace, has been a rock through this whole ordeal.

I go for a follow-up cat-scan and visit with the infectious disease doctor, Dr. Spak, this Monday to see how effective the ONE antibiotic they have me on has been successesful at killing the infection in the left over liquid in my abdomen. Other than that it will just be a matter of regaining muscle tone, energy and an appetite.

Even through all the pain and frustrations, this has been a surreal and wonderful experience. What a privilege to be a tool that unites so many in one accord, agreeing in prayer. What a joy to see just how big my God is and how nothing surprises Him or can stand in His way! He has protected me and my family and touched many lives in the process. Nothing He does is without purpose, even if it does not make sense to us.

“For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. For as the rain and snow come down from heaven, and do not return there without watering the earth, and making it bear and sprout, and furnish seed to the sower and bread to the eater; So shall My word go forth from My mouth. It shall not return to Me empty, without accomplishing what I desire, and without succeeding in the mater for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:8-11

I love you all and thank you again. I will write again very soon. ~Emily

P.S. I would like to thank Becky for all her hard work at keeping up this blog, It has been such a blessing, and will be a written account for my children when they are old enough to understand. Thank you, I love you.

Don Denton is now at home and having rehab three times a week. Please continue to pray for him and his family.

Ray Edwin Brock
(April 14, 1956 – December 14, 2008)
Ray Edwin Brock a wonderful, kind and loving father, son, brother, uncle and friend was born April 14, 1956 and passed away at 1:26PM, December 14, 2008 as a result of a massive heart attack. Ray was 52, a native of Magnolia, MS and a resident of Hammond.

He is survived by a son, James Barker Brock, Gardnerville, NV; his mother, Lina Brock Bernard, Amite; 3 sisters, Bettie Johnson and husband, Charlie, Thibodaux, Carolyn Helms and husband, Vernon, Schriever, Robbie (Ray’s twin) Davenport and husband, Ricky, Jonesville; a brother Lat “Bubba” Brock, Jr. and wife, Ceil, Hammond; 8 nieces & nephews and 7 great nieces and nephews.

Ray was preceded in death by his father, Latimer A. Brock, Sr.; his grandparents, Margaret & Holland Brock and Sally & Pierre Warren.

Ray graduated from Amite High School in 1974 where he played basketball, baseball and football. He attended Northeast LA University for two years before transferring to SLU. He graduated with a degree in Physical Education and Chemistry. He was a mud engineer for Magabar for several years before moving to Lake Tahoe, NV. He worked at Harvey’s and Harrah’s Casinos as a pit boss and dealer for many years. He moved back to Louisiana in 2006 to be closer to his family.

Ray loved watching all sports, especially LSU. He was a talented pianist and guitar player. He enjoyed entertaining the guest at the Heritage Manor Nursing Home in Hammond with his music.

Ray will be deeply missed by his family.

A private funeral service will be held at a later date at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite.

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

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Baptist Press
December 16, 2008

WASHINGTON–Abortion bailout: Obama urged to use taxpayer funds for abortion. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29520

ALASKA–Palin’s church targeted by arsonist. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29521

TENNESSEE–Black leaders explore church growth strategies. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29522

TENNESSEE–Adapt to reach adults, speakers say. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29523

TENNESSEE–500 women’s leaders gather for training. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29524

VIRGINIA–FIRST-PERSON (Ken Connor): Attention Wal-Mart shoppers. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29525

If you are a interested in sports, you might want to bookmark this link and refer to it periodically.
http://www.bpsports.net/

KneEmail
Balance

WHEN THE RINGLING Brothers Circus went to New York City in April 2004, thousands of people jammed Madison Square Garden to see the greatest show on earth…

What they saw instead was a terrifying accident. A performer named Ernado Rangel Amaya, a thirty-four-year-old Venezuelan high-wire daredevil, lost his balance and plummented to the ground. The crowd gasped in horror as emergency workers rushed to his side. Rangel somehow survived the fall, but he taught us a valuable lesson: life is all about keeping your balance. (David Jeremiah)

During this holiday season, work on keeping your balance — financially (don’t over-spend), emotionally (don’t over-stress in purchasing and preparing), physically (don’t over-eat), and spiritually (don’t neglect your worship, personal study and focus on God).

“And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men” ( Luke 2:52).

Posted by Mike Benson at December 3, 2008 12:11 PM

Have a wonderful Wednesday remembering “Jesus is the reason for the season”.
Anna Lee

Saturday

But the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. Luke 2:10 (NLT)

This is an update on Dustin Rosamond: Dustin was moved to Tulane Medical Center in New Orleans and has undergone a procedure to draw fluid from his lung and may have to undergo surgery to that lung to clean out “infection pockets”. He would like to be at home but the doctors have informed him that he would rather go ahead and take care of these problems rather than go home and have to turn right around and come back. Both of his parents are staying at the hospital around the clock so please continue to pray for Dustin and for his parents, Chris and Sherry and for the rest of his family as they anxiously await his recovery.
Please remember my Mom and Step-Dad, Ruby and Aubrey Stokes as they have been without phones and electricity for 2 days now and Aubrey is going through some continuing medical tests of his own which we pray for a good outcome and my Mom for her strength and health. Thank you for your continued prayers.
Sue Minor/Tucker

Emily Panter
Friday, December 12, 2008
It’s Hard for Emily
Emily called me this morning and told me she is having a hard adjustment. SHE CAN DO ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!! And this is per doctor’s orders—but she also feels it. She can do nothing. They still have a huge need. Emily cannot be left alone–at all! If any of you are available to help her by coming and staying with her, helping with kids, etc.—please sign up on the calendar. (We were getting hit by spammers on the calendar, so there may be an extra step in posting on the calendar)
Please, please pray for this family’s adjustment. It’s a struggle right now. I’m sure the kids are so excited to have mommy home–but just don’t realize mommy’s still not completely well.
Thank you!

Psalm 63:7
“Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings.”

Don Denton
Wow….what a week! Today marks one week that Don has been home. It is still sinking in as we embrace life as we know it.

We have been welcomed in a warm, wonderful way by this community of believers. I was just talking with a colleague of Don’s about the outpouring of love and support that we have received. It is truly the church expressing Christ’s love in a beautiful way. We as a family continue to receive support in amazing ways. We are so grateful! We are so blessed. We see God in such a powerful way.

We could have never expected how helpless it feels to come home and realize that we have been so needy. This certainly continues to be a place where God is teaching me about His amazing love and my ability to accept from others.

I have been humbled to realize that I can’t do this all by myself. I continue to learn from this experience as well.

We have so much to give thanks for this week. I have some prayer requests and want to give times for visitation with Don. I hope to have pictures of Don’s flight soon on the sight.

Prayer requests and answered prayer:

* Equipment Don has needed has been loaned to us, which we are so thankful for.
* Others continue to provide food for us, and delicious home cooked food, yeah!
* My brother and dear friends of his came in to spend the day with us today. It is so good to see their faces and spend special time with them.

Prayer requests:

* Don’s parents left this morning back for Louisiana. We needed them a few extra days. Pray for a safe trip for them.
* Pray for Joshua as he adjusts to daddy being home and daddy not feeling himself. This is still very hard for him.
* Pray for me as we adjust. I am realizing that I can’t do it all.
* Pray for Don as he continues to improve. Today was a day where is was most tired and did not feel well. This has been busy week for him.

We continue to give thanks to our God for the body of Christ who has reached out to meet our needs. WE are most grateful!

Don will be taking visitors starting this week. This Sunday from 2 – 4pm. Please call ahead of time: 417-777-6612

Tuesday Dec 16th 2-4pm

Friday Dec 19th 1 -3pm.

Call me if you have questions.

Blessings to you our family and friends

Diane

George H. Will
(October 4, 1917 – December 11, 2008)

U.S. Veteran Mr. George H. Will passed away at 5:10AM, Thursday, December 11, 2008 at the St. Helena Parish Hospital, Greensburg. He was 91, a native of Lockhart, TX and a resident of Kentwood.

Mr. George is survived by his wife of 22 years, Lula Mae Needham Will, Kentwood; a brother, Ludwig Theodore Will, and wife, Jeanne, Denver, CO; 2 nieces, Dr. Patricia Wells, and husband, Jim, Sacramento, CA & Charlene Wright, Houston, TX; a nephew, Thomas Will, and wife, Donna, Houston, TX.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ludwig & Nellie Will; first wife, Iverina Will; & a sister, Louise Wright.

Visitation at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Saturday, December 13, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM in the Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Percy ‘Mac’ Frazier officiating. Interment in the Needham Cemetery, Kentwood, LA.

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

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, December 12, 2008

“Now listen: You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you will call His name JESUS” (Luke 1:31, HCSB).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, encouraging you to pray for others as we move through this holiday season.

The lyrics, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. . . “ and “It’s the most wonderful time of the year . . . ,” keep floating through my mind. We all have a mental image of the ideal holiday season. Americans have a distinctly cultural view of Christmas that includes presents, snow, and nativity scenes.

But Christmas looks quite different in Saudi Arabia! There are no Christmas trees for sale, and it is hard to find Christmas decorations–certainly no snow. Pray a special blessing for Christians living there. Many come from countries all around the world and they spend the holiday away from families. Others face persecution from fellow countrymen. Pray that their celebration will be rich as they focus on the real reason for Christmas.

In Durban, South Africa, international, national and local holidaymakers are visiting beaches and other attractions. Pray for safety for all, in what is not considered to be such a safe environment these days. Pray that missionaries and Christian groups will find opportunities to share Jesus without fear as they mingle with holiday-goers at a time when many are curious as to the reason for the season.

The Xhosa tribe of South Africa does not really celebrate Christmas. Since it is in the middle of summer, many of the church programs are suspended and many pastors take the whole month off–there are no Christmas plays, musicals or indigenous Christmas songs. Please pray for team members as they minister in the different communities, teaching the significance of Christmas.

* Please pray that the love of Jesus will shine and believers in Saudi will share the hope they have in Jesus with friends and coworkers.

* Pray for the Durban holiday crowd that they will call on the name JESUS!

* Intercede for believers in South Africa to find biblically and culturally appropriate ways to celebrate the Christ child.

Baptist Press
December 12, 2008

WASHINGTON–Obama & new Congress could set back pro-life movement decades. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29503

WASHINGTON–Quick order would belie Obama’s call for abortion reduction. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29504

WASHINGTON–Pro-life policies likely Obama targets. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29505

WASHINGTON–Cizik resigns after controversial interview. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29506

WASHINGTON–Land: Bush not ‘theologian-in-chief.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29507

VIRGINIA–Hispanics aim for $1M Lottie Moon offering. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29508

TENNESSEE–INTERNATIONAL DIGEST: Orissa Christians fear violent Christmas. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29509

ALABAMA–FIRST-PERSON (Wanda S. Lee): The importance of missions giving. http://www.bpnews.net/BPFirstPerson.asp?ID=29510

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): We need a character bailout. http://www.bpnews.net/BPFirstPerson.asp?ID=29511

EVERY SECRET THING

At the end of their first date, a young man takes his favorite girl home. Emboldened by the night, he decides to try for that important first kiss. With an air of confidence, he leans with his hand against the wall and, smiling, he says to her, “Darling, how ’bout a goodnight kiss?”

Horrified, she replies, “Are you mad? My parents will see us!”

“Oh come on! Who’s gonna see us at this hour?”

“No, please. Can you imagine if we get caught?”

“Oh come on, there’s nobody around, they’re all sleeping!”

“No way. It’s just too risky!”

“Oh please, please, I like you so much!!”

“No, no, and no. I like you too, but I just can’t!”

“Oh yes you can. Please?”

“NO, no. I just can’t.”

“Pleeeeease?…”

Out of the blue, the porch light goes on, and the girl’s sister shows up in her pajamas, hair disheveled. In a sleepy voice the sister says: “Dad says to go ahead and give him a kiss. Or I can do it. Or if need be, he’ll come down himself and do it. But for crying out loud, tell him to take his hand off the intercom button!”

How embarrassing to realize that a conversation you thought was being held in secret was known to everyone in the house! There are some things we say that we don’t want others to hear and some things we do that we don’t want others to know about (sometimes with good reason). But, the truth is, much of what we try to keep hidden from others is because we know that what we are saying and doing is wrong and we don’t want others to know about it.

If there’s something in your life that you’re trying to hide from others, you’d better be careful. And be reminded that there are no secrets we can keep from God. He sees all, He knows all, and He appreciates the person who is honest enough to allow God into every aspect of his life. For those who want to live in secret, the day is coming when those secrets will be revealed.

Paul spoke of “the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.” (Romans 2:16)

Solomon spoke of a time when “God will bring every work into judgment, Including every secret thing, whether good or evil.” (Ecclesiastes 12:14)

May your live your life every day with the confidence that your hand is on the intercom button, God is on the other end, but you have nothing to be ashamed of.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Don’t forget the Lottie Moon Christmas Tea at 2 P.M. today at New Zion Baptist Church. It is for all girls and ladies! It doesn’t matter your age, size, church, or knowledge of Lottie Moon. Come, enjoy some tea (or hot chocolate) and some tea cakes made by Lottie’s recipe. You’ll learn more about her and her support of missions. Then, you will realize why our annual offering for International missions is named in her honor.
Anna Lee

Thursday Afternoon

Joan Hagan’s mother, Mrs. Betty Bethel, has been having several health issues lately. Please keep her in your prayers.

2 things: Update: Our customer’s son who had surgery yesterday to remove a tumor from his brain (it actually turned out to be one small orange sized tumor and one golf ball size turmor and it was located on the front left lobe of his brain which affects his speech and memory) surgery went well and if all continues to go well he will be able to go home in a few days and then has to start radiation, please continue to keep him and his family in your prayers and thank you so much for the prayers on his behalf already. 2: My sister’s grandson, Dustin Rosamond is in North Oaks with pneumonia in one lung and they are planning to transfer him to Tulane Medical Center (my sister, Pearl is very worried about him and is worried that this may affect his only kidney (he only has one)) he has been running a raging fever, been very weak and throwing up so I am asking for prayer for him and the doctors and techs caring for him and for his family. Thank you so much for always being there to pray for all the many needs.

Chris W. did leave Russia yesterday and is now in the Balkans.
The rest of the family is packing and distributing their household
goods to meet up with Chris in about a week. Please keep praying for
them diligently for their move, new ministry, team members being
reassigned and the ministry they must leave.

Thank you for praying for Chris and his family. Please continue to pray for
Jill as she packs up their belongings and she and Christian meet up with
Chris. Please also pray for the Russian officials that handle missionary
visas that they will come to know the Lord and let his light through them to
others.

Melinda

W B Travis
(April 28, 1943 – December 11, 2008)
I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. 2 Timothy 4:7. W. B. Travis went home to be with the Lord at 3:28 a.m. at his home in Kentwood surrounded by his loving family on Thursday, December 11, 2008. He was a dairyman and fence contractor for many, many years. He was a member of New Zion Baptist Church, Kentwood, and Masonic Lodge #98, F&AM, Greensburg. He is survived by his devoted wife, Joan Pittman Travis, Kentwood, and his six children, Lesia Jones and husband, Scott, Roseland-Arcola, Joanie Booty and husband, Johnie, Spring Creek, Penny Bates, Kentwood, and Sonya Williams, and husband, Fred, Gillsburg, MS, Clent Travis and wife, Erin, Kentwood, Brent Travis and partner, Charlie Tomkins, Loranger; two sisters, Mary Rose Mahaffey and husband, Roy, and Carlene Brownell, Gillsburg, MS; 14 grandchildren, Bridgette Jones, Cassie Jones, Danielle Jones, Jonathan Booty, Jacob Booty, Joanna Booty, Jace Booty, Barrett Bates, Chelsea Bates, Baylor Travis, Blake Bridges, Tristen Bailey, Travis Williams and Kirby Williams; 2 great-grandchildren, Alyvia Bates and Duely Deaton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Felder and Bulah Mae Travis; 2 brothers, Carl Travis, Irvin Travis and his two infants; a nephew, Wayne Mahaffey. Visitation will be held at New Zion Baptist Church, Kentwood, Friday December 12, 2008 from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. with a Masonic Service at 7 p.m. Visitation will resume at 8 a.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2008 with religious services at 11 a.m. at New Zion Baptist Church. Services will be conducted by Rev. Richard Sandburg and Rev. Danny Smith. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.

Baptist Press

December 11, 2008

WASHINGTON–House churches under new threat in China. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29491

MISSOURI–Appeals panel hears MBC/Windermere case. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29492

OHIO–Ohio Baptists recognize 30 new church starts. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29493

HAWAII–Hawaii Baptists welcome Korean church. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29494

VIRGINIA–Oldest IMB emeritus missionary dies at 102. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29495

KENTUCKY–Deaton elected Western Recorder editor. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29496

VIRGINIA–WORLDVIEW (Erich Bridges): Knocking at the gate at Christmas. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29497

FYI: As if this time, the parish school system is scheduled to reopen tomorrow after a day off due to SNOW!