Monday

 

 

 

“Bear one another’s burdens,

and so fulfill the law of Christ.”

~Galatians 6:2~

Mrs. Blanch Wheat is waiting for a doctor to decide if she is able to have surgery. Pray for “Miss” Blanch, her family, and the doctor who has this responsibility.

Richard Dunn is in East Jefferson Hospital. Please pray for Richard and his family as Richard receives treatment.

From a newsletter sent out by IMB personnel in Romania:

June12 – Pray as the missionaries in Czech Republic, Hungary, Moldova, Romania & Slovakia travel to the CEFannual general meeting in Hungary 13th -19

June 14 – Jeff Long, pastor of Parkwood Baptist Church in Gastonia, NC, as he speaks to us at AGM on “Staying the Course” from1 Thessalonians

June 24 – Daniel Byrd (Teamromany/gypsy) is appointed as a career M & returns to RO on the 28th

June 30 – Wes & Tamara Banks as they move from Bucharest to Braila to begin working with Team Romany (gypsy team)

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD

Monday, June 2, 2008

“In everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To Him belong the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”

~1 Peter 4:11b, HCSB~

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, celebrating salvation with you.

“I was depressed, desperate to find someone who could help my miserable life. I was so stressed that I was physically ill. I told my roommate that I wanted her to go with me to find a church. We went out on the sidewalk to wait for a taxi. One came, and it had a sign on the side that read, ‘Problems? Discouraged? Jesus is the Answer!’ We were amazed! We told the driver to take us to the church whose name was written on the sign!” Miss G left her Buddhist tradition and became a believer in Jesus Christ that day. Please pray that the hearts of many others will be opened by the messages about Jesus on the sides of many taxis running through the city streets in central Thailand.

Here is another testimony: “My husband is a drunk. I try to work to provide for our family, but I must also take care of my children. I had no hope until I heard a voice on the radio telling me that Jesus had power above all other spirits and powers and that He loves me!” Mrs. J responded to the radio broadcaster’s offer to enlist in Bible correspondence courses. After she wrote to say that she wanted to give her life to Christ, members of the Central Thai Team, a local Baptist church, and the radio ministry team visited Mrs. J. That day she prayed to receive Christ as her new Lord.

*Please pray for Mrs. J and the thousands of others who are hearing the gospel being proclaimed on radio programs or advertised on taxis.

*Pray for Thai Christian leaders to have a burden to work alongside field personnel and be the ones to disciple new believers.

*Pray that the outreach methods will be anointed with the supernatural power of God’s Holy Spirit.

Margaret Huber shared this:

Pat Jarrell passed away today. He services are incomplete at this time but Chablis (his daughter) said tentatively they will be Wednesday, Pat was a mail carrier and a parish councilman in Tangipahoa Parish.

Mr. Henry Harris

Visitation at New Zion Baptist Church, Kentwood, from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Monday. Services conducted by Rev. Iran Smith. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood.

 

 

 

KneEmail

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

Cry

WALKING PAST MY barn one day, I heard a frantic chirping inside, and upon investigation I found a bluejay beating its wings against the glass pane of the window…

Had it not cried and squawked, I would not have heard it. But its plaintive note prompted me to open the door wide and the jay flew out to liberty. That bluejay was in a strange place for a bird; and Jonah found himself in a strange place for a human being. Because of his disobedience, Jonah was cast into the sea, swallowed by a sea monster and trapped in its belly. Although it was Jonah’s own fault that he was there, God was also there to hear his prayer. And when he confessed, God delivered him.

God’s children sometimes get themselves into some strange places and unhappy circumstances because of their folly. Are you in a strange place today? Are you out of fellowship with the Lord, defeated, unhappy? Then cry out to God, confess your sin, and be restored by His abundant mercy. God is waiting to hear your faintest cry and accept your repentance. Maybe through your own foolish choices you’re in a strange place today — but He is with you and waiting to hear your cry (M.R. DeHaan).

“If we confess our sins,

He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins

nd to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

~ 1 John 1:9; cf. Jonah 2:1~

Have a great week!

Anna Lee

Saturday Afternoon

Thelma Birch Humphrey
(May 12, 1922 – May 30, 2008)

Died at 4:45PM on Friday, May 30, 2008 at St. Helena Parish Hospital in Greensburg, LA. She was a native of Kentwood, LA and a resident of Greensburg, LA. Age 86 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 9 a.m. on Monday and until religious services at 3 p.m. Monday. Services conducted by Rev. Larry Robertson. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Survived by 4 children, Loleta Blades, Greensburg, Sylvester Humphrey, Amite, Linda Reeves, Greensburg, Paulette Simmons, Kentwood, 12 grandchildren, 13 great- grandchildren, 4 sisters, Cosma Hodges, Amite, Marcelle Cuti, Amite, Ruby Wolken, Prairieveill, Margaret Estes, Ketnwood. Preceded in death by husband, Percy L. Humphrey, 6 grandchildren, Brian Blades, Billy Reeves, Calvin Reeves, Clifton Simmons, Deana Simmons Warwick, Kallie Glenn Brown, 2 brothers, Clovis Birch, Herbert Birch.

Saturday

“But certainly God has heard me;

He has attended to the voice of my prayer.”

~Psalm 66:19~

Prayerline

INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, May 30, 2008

“It is done. I am the Alpha and the Omega,

the Beginning and the End.

I will give to the thirsty from the spring of living water

as a gift”

Revelation 21:6, HCSB

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, continuing to ask you to pray for those who are facing daily challenges.

In the last several months, the citizens of South Africa have endured daily electrical power outages that have caused many problems. Equipment has been damaged, businesses have failed financially, and the traffic situation has worsened. There is also increased danger for nightly meetings such as cell-groups (home-based congregations) and Bible studies, as well as other ministries in which missionaries are involved. Pray for the country’s leaders to find realistic solutions to the current problems with daily power outages.

The hot season is in full force in Pakistan and so are the power cuts, also known as “load shedding.” In March and April, the daily average for load shedding was between 6-8 hours (often in 2-hour periods). Some in the poorest neighborhoods went without power for much longer periods of time. Water is also a big concern as the temperatures increase. There is simply not enough clean water to go around. Please pray for God to show Himself as the Great Provider and for the people of Karachi to know that Jesus alone brings Life.

*Please pray for believers in these nations to depend fully on the Lord and demonstrate their confidence in His provision to their neighbors.

*Pray for missionaries’ safety as they continue with ministry while dealing with difficult circumstances.

*Pray for those facing life’s challenges to recognize the Alpha and the Omega who provides all our needs.


Please remember my son, C.J. Williams in your prayers, his biological father, Clyde Williams, Sr. of Ponchatula was crossing the street yesterday morning (Thursday)and was struck and killed by an oncoming vehicle. C.J. never really had much of a relationship with his father but the lack of that and now the chance to have one is gone and that is bothering him. So I am asking prayer for C.J. and for the rest of the family during this time, I ask for prayer for strength, healing and growth through this tragedy. Thank you for praying. Sue Minor

Dr. John Sherman Scarle Sr.
A resident of Ponchatoula, Dr. John Sherman Scarle Sr., 88, died at 5 a.m. Friday, May 30, 2008, at his home after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was born on Thursday, Dec. 11, 1919, in Amite. Surviving are his wife of 65 years, Louise Miller Scarle; two daughters and sons-in-law, Scarlet Scarle Hebert and Thomas E. Hebert, M.D., and Marsha Scarle Black and Gary Louis Black; and son, John Sherman Scarle Jr. He is also survived by seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Friends will be received at First United Methodist Church of Ponchatoula on Monday, June 2, from noon until service at 1 p.m., with the Rev. Tom Logan officiating. Interment will follow in the Amite Cemetery, Amite. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation at 1501 N.W. 9th Ave. (Bob Hope Road) Miami, FL 33136-1494, or to North Oaks Hospice, P.O. Box 2668, Hammond, LA 70404-2668. An online guestbook is available at http://www.harrymckneely.com.


Vesta Louise Gill Walker
Walker, Vesta Louise Gill McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, at 11 a.m.

THE VALUE OF EXPERIENCE

“Sir, What is the secret of your success?” a reporter asked a bank president.

“Two words.”

“And, sir, what are they?”

“Right decisions.”

“And how do you make right decisions?”

“One word.”

“And, sir, what is that?”

“Experience.”

“And how do you get experience?”

“Two words.”

“And, sir, what are they?”

“Wrong decisions.”

There’s a measure of truth in that. Though we can (and should) learn from the mistakes of others, experience truly does seem to be “the best teacher.” The experience of making wrong decisions in the past should help us to learn so that we make better decisions in the future. But are we willing to learn?

Paul is a great example of someone who learned from his past mistakes and, as a result of that experience, made better decisions in his effort to serve God.

“And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord who has enabled me, because He counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry, although I was formerly a blasphemer, a persecutor, and an insolent man….” (I Timothy 1:12-13)

I love the way that I’ve heard Randy Harris put it: “God loves you wherever you are……..but He loves you too much to leave you where you are!”

Father, once again I come asking forgiveness for the many times I’ve let you down. As I confess to you my transgressions, I pray that you will help me to learn from my mistakes — to recognize the consequences of following my stubborn will, to realize the heartache you feel when I turn a deaf ear to you, to learn from my error the need to follow your word more closely. I have made wrong decisions, but I pray that the experience of doing so will help me to develop the wisdom necessary to make better decisions in the future, as I strive to draw closer to you. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Right decisions

Experience

Wrong decisions

“God loves you wherever you are……..

but He loves you too much to leave you where you are!”

Think on this today.

Have a wonderful Saturday!

Anna Lee

Friday Afternoon

Henry Augusta Harris, Jr.
(September 5, 1930 – May 29, 2008)

Died at 3:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 29, 2008 at his residence near Kentwood. He was a native of Poplarville, MS. Age 77 years. Visitation at New Zion Baptist Church, Kentwood, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Sunday and from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Monday. Services conducted by Rev. Iran Smith. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood. He is survived by his wife, Emma Mitchell Harris; Kentwood, 2 sons, Ronald C. Harris, Tylertown, MS, and Joseph Steven Harris, Baton Rouge; 1 brother, Jimmy C. Harris, Woodlands, TX; 8 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren.

Christine Wall
(August 6, 1912 – May 30, 2008)

A very special lady has gone to join the Lord. Christine Wall, known to many as “Aunt Tean”, died Friday, May 30, 2008 at Hood Memorial Hospital. At 95, she was a life-long resident of Spring Creek. Christine was born on August 6, 1912 and spent her life serving others in her kind, gentle way. She was a member of Spring Creek Baptist Church where she volunteered on the Flower Committee, served refreshments at Bible School, and was a member of WMU and the Sunshiners. She also worked as a Tangipahoa Parish Librarian at the Spring Creek Branch and as a Commissioner of Elections for many years. She and her husband, Clonis, maintained Spring Creek School for 40 years. They were especially fond of the many Spring Creek High School children whose lives they touched from 1936 to 1971 at the time of their retirement. “Aunt Tean” always sent cards and letters to many people on special occasions never forgetting anyone. Christine is survived by nieces, Ernestine Tigert, Margarite Fontenot, Lida Abernathy, Carolina Shepherd, and Ruth Warren. She is also survived by nephews, Arthur Gates, Dutton Wall, and Earl Costello. She is survived by a host of Great, Great-Great, and Great-Great-Great nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her husband, Clonis Wall, parents, Felder and Uner Crawford, sister, Geneva Gates, and brother, Marshall Crawford. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home in Kentwood on Sunday, June 1 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Monday, June 2 from 9:00 a.m. until funeral services at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at the Spring Creek Baptist Church Cemetery. This “one of a kind”, special lady will be sadly missed by her family, many friends, and anyone who knew her.

Elsie Harris Barker
(September 20, 1913 – May 28, 2008)

Died at 8 a.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at Tangi-Pines Nursing Center in Amite, LA. She was a native of Provence, OK and a resident of Amite, LA. Age 94 years. She was a member of First Baptist Church, Amite, LA, and Order of Eastern Star. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10 a.m on Monday until religious services at 11 a.m. Monday. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. Survived by step-daughter, Linda Robertson, Plano, TX, niece, Judy Trecost and her husband, Al, Bristol, WV, nephew, Charles Wheeler and his wife, Kathleen, Evergreen, CO, great-nephews, Jason Wheeler & his wife, Anita, Pensacola, FL, Bert Trecost and his wife, Fulvia, Philadelphia, PA, Jerffrey Trecost, Frederick, MD, great-niece, Rachel Bans, Evergreen, CO, several great-great-nieces and great-great-nephews, Preceded in death by, husband, Travis Barker.

Joshua Michael LeJeune
(August 17, 1986 – May 28, 2008)

Joshua Michael LeJeune passed away on Wednesday, May 28, 2008 in Ponchatoula at the age of 21. Joshua was a native of Austin, TX and a life long resident of Hammond. Beloved son of Naomie Carter and Michael Jude LeJeune. Brother of Mary Ashlen LeJeune, Mitchel Carmello and the late Christopher Carmello. Grandson of Marvin and Nancy Carter, David and Dolores LeJeune and the late Mary Ann Picou Carter. God son of Patrice Carter. Joshua was active and serving in the U. S. Air Force. Relatives and friends of the Family are invited to attend a Memorial Mass of Christian Burial at St. Helena Catholic Church, 120 S. 1st. Street, Amite, LA on Monday, June 2, 2008 at 10:00 A.M. Interment Private. Bagnell & Son Funeral Home In Charge of Arrangements.

Friday


But the Lord stood at my side

and gave me strength,

so that through me the message

might be fully proclaimed

and all the Gentiles might hear it.

And I was delivered from the lion’s mouth.

2 Timothy 4:17 (NIV)

Frann S. Clark went to see the neurosurgeon Wednesday. The decision was made to not do surgery. Pray for Frann as she deals with the pain.

Tests for Romanian language:

Thank you all so very much for remembering us in prayer today as we took our final exam for Levels IA & IIA. We all wanted to do well, and finish strong. We were a bit anxious because we did not want a poor performance to reflect poorly on our Lord. All in all, it went well, and it was because of your prayers and His faithfulness.

I told Margie that I felt like my language skill was somewhat like a nicely arranged vegetable tray that I was carrying to the table, when I tripped. By the time the test was over—I had tossed salad for sure. It did not come out on to the test paper like our teacher put it in, but now we are ready to move forward with “some” language skill. Thanks for your support. See you soon!!!! Bob Craig

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray
Prayer

Prayer requests

May 23, 2008

“Let the little children come to Me,

and don’t stop them,

because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,”

Luke 18:16b

SHE NEEDED JESUS

On a bright sunny day, a missionary in Paraguay met a little girl on the street. She was standing at a table with her mom. The girl is a 6-year-old with a sad smile, long black hair, and a very thin body. The table and a chair is the mom’s office-no walls or bookcases or cash register-just a table and chair. The little girl smiled at Iracema Kunkel, the missionary, when she stopped to talk to her mother. The little girl usually stayed beside her mother for 12 long hours, playing with some ragged and dirty dolls. Iracema Kunkel talked with her mother and just knew she needed Jesus.

The missionary told her about the love of Jesus and the mother asked Jesus to be her Savior! Now this little girl spends half a day in school and the other half at her mother’s ‘office.’ But now she has a beautiful smile (and her mother does too) because she is learning about Jesus. They keep a Bible on the table where everyone can see. They go to a Baptist church near where they live. Please pray for this little girl and this mother that they will keep on studying God’s Word and trust God to take care of them every day.

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray for my sister who is going to university. I am homeschooled, please pray for my grades. MATTHEW, age 13 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Pray that more college students come to our summer program, SA101, and lots of people come to know Christ in India. ALLAN, age 13 (South Asia)

TR is my friend who lives in Japan. He has a younger sister and a younger brother. Please pray for them. He goes to my Japanese school and is in my class in 3rd grade. He’s funny. He loves nature and always talks about bugs and plants. We have a job in our classroom of taking care of all the nature stuff, like feeding the fish. I have been telling TR about Jesus, but he’s not interested in getting baptized. He doesn’t want to get baptized, because he doesn’t want to go under the water. I don’t know if he’s a Christian or not. I want him to be a Christian. Please pray for TR. RICKIE, age 8 (Pacific Rim)

My mom teaches my three brothers and me. Please pray for us and our homeschool. Pray for my dad. He is the Logistics Coordinator for Malawi-that means he helps other people who come to work in our country and he is really busy. ANNA, age 13 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Our next door neighbors have a daughter, AI, about fifteen years old. She and her family are Muslims and she goes to a school where she learns about the Koran. People have told AI and her family about Jesus, but they are still Muslims. Please pray that AI and her family will understand what they have heard about Jesus and that they would choose to believe in Him. ELIZABETH, age 17 (West Africa)

Please pray for me to learn more Thai and for me to read my Bible more. Ask God to help me to find a good friend. MORIAH, age 10 ½ (Pacific Rim)

Charles Eugene James
(January 16, 1947 – May 29, 2008)

Died on Thursday, May 29, 2008 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. He was a native of Centreville, MS and a resident of Amite. Age 61 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 12:00 Noon on Saturday until religious services at 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Services conducted by Rev. Field Thigpen. Interment Pine Ridge Cemetery, Tangipahoa, LA. Survived by 5 sisters, Juanita Pace, St. Amant, Rita Holden, Amite, Barbara Walker, Amite, Betty Phillips, Kentwood, Nancy Morris, Amite, 2 brothers, Paul James, Amite, James Walker, Amite, Preceded in death by, father, Sidney James, mother, Mary Parker James Walker.

Rosa Lee Edwards
(November 9, 1924 – May 28, 2008)

Died at 2:50 p.m. on Wednesday, May 28, 2008 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. She was a native of Hattiesburg, MS and a resident of Roseland. Age 83 years. Visitation at Roseland Baptist Church, Roseland, from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Friday and from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Saturday. Services conducted by Rev. Mervin Strother. Interment Killian Chapel Cemetery, Amite. She is survived by her 5 daughters, Mavis Beasley, Avondale, Marilyn Dominano Bentivegna, Tickfaw, Barbara Louge, Columbia, MS, Glenda Bennett, Pumpkin Center and Debra Rowell, Albany; 1 son, Robert Edwards, Tickfaw; 1 brother, Lavon White, Roger, AR; 1 sister, Mrs. Roberta Babaz, Sulfur; 24 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; 9 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Edwards; parents, Herbert and Lucy White; grandson, Jason Bennett; great-granddaughter, Wendy Breaux; 4 brothers, Leon White, Paul White, Robert White and Hugh L. White.


THE INNOCENCE OF CHILDHOOD

Sometimes I want to be a kid again. I want to go back to the time when:

— Decisions were made by going “eeny-meeny-miney-mo.”
— Mistakes were corrected by simply exclaiming “do over!”
— “Race issue” meant arguing about who ran the fastest.
— Money issues were handled by whoever was the banker in “Monopoly.”
— Catching fireflies could happily occupy an entire evening.
— Being old referred to anyone over 20.
— The net on a tennis court was the perfect height to play volleyball and the rules didn’t matter.
— The worst thing you could catch from the opposite sex was cooties.
— It was magic when dad would “remove” his thumb.
— It was unbelievable that dodgeball wasn’t an Olympic event.
— Having a weapon in school meant being caught with a slingshot.
— Nobody was prettier than Mom.
— Scrapes and bruises were kissed and made better.
— It was a big deal to finally be tall enough to ride the “big people” rides at the amusement park.
— Getting a foot of snow was a dream come true.
— Abilities were discovered because of a “double-dog-dare.”
— Saturday morning cartoons weren’t 30-minute ads for action figures.
— “Oly-oly-oxen-free” made perfect sense.
— Spinning around, getting dizzy and falling down was cause for giggles.
— The worst embarrassment was being picked last for a team.
— War was a card game.
— Water balloons were the ultimate weapon.
— Baseball cards in the spokes transformed any bike into a motorcycle.
— Taking drugs meant orange-flavored chewable aspirin.
— Older siblings were the worst tormentors but also the fiercest protectors.
(author unknown)

There’s an innocence about childhood. As we grow older, we lose that innocence and life becomes more complicated. Like Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden, we all live out in our own lives what it means to have sin affect our relationship with God and our relationship with one another.

“So when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree desirable to make one wise, she took of its fruit and ate. She also gave to her husband with her, and he ate. Then the eyes of both of them were opened, and they knew that they were naked…” (Genesis 3:6-7a)

Taking the fruit of a tree giving us more knowledge isn’t as wonderful as we think it will be. As we grow older, we know more and more, but often find ourselves wishing that we were younger when we didn’t know nearly as much. We can never regain that innocence, but thank God we can find forgiveness!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a wonderful Friday!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

Because of the service

by which you have proved yourselves,

men will praise God for the obedience

that accompanies your confession

of the gospel of Christ,

and for your generosity in sharing with them

and with everyone else.

~2 Corinthians 9:13 (NIV)~

Vesta Louise Gill Walker
(January 20, 1941 – May 26, 2008)

Died at 12:01 a.m. on Monday, May 26, 2008 at her Residence in Baton Rouge. She was a native of Tangipahoa and a resident of Baton Rouge. Age 67 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Friday and from 8 a.m. until religious services at 11:00 a.m. Saturday. Services conducted by Rev. Ray Varnado. Interment Mixon Cemetery, Tangipahoa, LA. Survived by, her daughter and son in law, Angela and Bart Wilson, Baton Rouge, her brother, Alfred “Buddy” Gill, Kentwood, her grandson, Evan Michael Walker, preceded in death by her parents, Layton and Winnie Ricks Gill

Catherine Eugenia Vining Thompson
(November 17, 1916 – May 27, 2008)

Catherine Eugenia Vining Thompson passed away at 5:23 a.m. on Tuesday, May 27, 2008. She was born on November 17, 1916, a native and resident of Amite. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Thursday conducted by Rev. Darrell Miller. Interment will be at Roberts Cemetery, Hwy 441, Amite. She is survived by two daughters, Marilyn Miller and her husband, Carlton Miller of Walker and Cherie Moss and her husband, George Moss of Hot Springs, Ark.; one son, Roy Galen Thompson and his wife, Susan Thompson of Amite; a daughter-in-law, Linda Ann Thompson Watts and her husband, C. L. Watts of Livingston; four granddaughters, Karen Thompson Boatner, Dara Moss Mooney, Heather O’Connell and Dallas Moss Pomeroy; five grandsons, Donald Earl Thompson Jr., Roy Anthony Thompson, Dana Thomas Boyd, David Keith Thompson and Jeremiah Thompson; nine great granddaughters; four great grandsons; and numerous dearly loved nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Earl Thompson; her parents, John and Annie Elizabeth Vining; a brother, Thomas Vining; three half sisters; four half brothers; a son, Donald Earl Thompson; and a granddaughter, Catherine Elise Boyd. During World War II, she worked as a welder in the Avondale Shipyard in New Orleans. She retired from Hammond State School. She was a member of Hillsdale Baptist Church and the Eastern Star Organization. She was an avid sports fan, an excellent cook, and an enthusiastic traveler. One of her favorite quotes was, “So then every one of us shall give account of himself to God” (Rom. 14:12). She lived her life with that promise in mind. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Hillsdale Baptist Church, Hwy 1045, Amite, La. 70422. The family would like to thank the Staff of Landmark Nursing Home, North Oaks Medical Center and Hospice of Hammond for their dedicated care.

Baptist Press

May 27, 2008

VIRGINIA–Baptists respond to world hunger crisis. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28127

KANSAS–Students focus on Christ alone at ‘Paradise.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28128

VIRGINIA–WRAP-UP: NAMB trustees review evangelism initiative. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28129

IOWA–Iowa Baptist unit to aid tornado victims. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28130

TENNESSEE–ELECTION 08: Obama’s extreme record on abortion could be issue. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28131

TENNESSEE–Union graduation marks God’s grace. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28132

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Keith Manuel): ‘You visited me in prison.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28133

He Made Him

Billy Graham speaks about why

Jesus Christ went to the cross:

The Bible says that God gave His Son on the cross. And He made Him to be sin for us. You think of Jesus, now…He’d become sin. Not His sins, but yours and mine. And God had laid on Him the iniquity of us all, who His own self bear our sins on the cross. And the Bible says that if we are to ever get to heaven, and ever have the peace of God in our hearts, you’ll have to come to Him. Has that ever happened to you?

How do you answer Mr. Graham’s question? Have you ever come to Jesus Christ by faith? We’re the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. To begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, call us toll free at 866-JESUS-CARES.

Sunday

“Blessed be God,

who has not turned away my prayer,

nor His mercy from me!”

~Psalm 66:20~

Thank you for your continued prayers. I am improving daily. Go to see the neurosurgeon Wednesday and hope he has something else we can try. Still having difficulty walking because it hurts to put pressure on my left leg. My bag hurts if I stand too long-like cooking.

Riley continues to decline in his ability to do things. Continues to be pleasant and eats & sleeps well.

I am thankful for the beautiful sunny days but it is a little HOT in DeRidder and even hotter when the AC goes out. Thankful that we had a nice man who would get out on a Saturday of a Memorial Day Weekend & repair the AC. Surely did help my myasthenia. It was beginning to be a little uncorporative because heat & myasthenia don’t get along too well.
thanks for your prayers
Frann Smith Clark


JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (joh-HAHN-is-burg). “A Deaf believer shared her story of a recent encounter during a week-long literacy training seminar,” writes the Deaf Evangelism Team. “When one Deaf man mocked his Christian friend, she jumped in, saying that she was a believer too. The Christian friend tried to share the story about Paul from Acts 8 but mixed up some of the details. She shared the full story about Paul’s testimony with them, and the man who had mocked then said that every story from the Bible being told in sign language should be videotaped so that every Deaf person will ‘see’ God’s Word in a new light. God is moving, as a group of interested Deaf believers have now gathered and prayed about this possibility of videotaping the Bible stories in their heart sign languages. Pray that God will guide us and give wisdom, patience and understanding as we work with this group who are committing themselves to this project.” http://members.tripod.com/wret_za/

SOUTH AFRICA. Please be in prayer for the country of South Africa. South Africa has long been thought of as an economically and politically secure country. However, over the last several months, much change has occurred here. Due to various reasons, power supplies have reached a critically low point and now South Africa is suffering the power outages that often occur in other parts of Africa. It has reached such a critical level that the country is now experiencing daily, rotating power outages. Unfortunately, this has already had a devastating effect on small business and employment, in a country that already has a huge unemployment rate. Immigration requests from the country have quadrupled since November. There are also nervous “rumblings” about how this will affect the 2010 Soccer World Cup, since it looks like a solution will be years in coming. All of this has had an unsettling effect on all people and has started a time of economic as well as political unrest with the coming elections. Please be in prayer for South Africa. Intercede for the people as they struggle through difficult times. Pray for the government as they struggle to solve a seemingly insurmountable problem. Ask for the Lord’s intervention and care. Pray for many to seek the Lord’s hand and guidance in South Africa.

ZAMBIA. It might be a school break, but it’s no holiday. The students of the Baptist Theological Seminary of Zambia are on their “break” between terms–but no one would say that they are on holiday. Those who are full-time pastors are using this time to focus more of their time and energy on the churches that they serve. Others are in the process of planting a church during this break. One student is beginning to bring to reality his calling of building an orphanage/training center in the bush by surveying possible sites and purchasing the land where God directs him. Give thanks to God for students who see “holidays” as “holy days”–days set apart for His glory and honor, extra opportunities to follow Him in faithful obedience.

LAST FRONTIER. “I was recently again reminded of the privilege of growing up in a country, and in a family, where there was freedom to hear and share the Good News,” writes a worker serving among a Last Frontier people group. “Utilizing the help of a recent short-term volunteer team, we took the opportunity to share the Resurrection Story with multiples of people over a one-week period. These short-term volunteer friends and I were amazed at the number of people who had never heard the Story. In several situations, the hearers were visibly moved. We ask you to pray for those who have heard these Truths. Pray that the seeds of Truth will take root and begin to grow new life in their hearts. Pray that the enemy will not steal these seeds of life away.”

MUSLIMS: PRAYING BEYOND THE WALL. Pray for brothers and sisters who are experiencing persecution because of their commitment to follow and serve Jesus Christ. Pray for them to experience joy in Christ in the midst of treachery. Ask that they will be completely enveloped by God’s peace. Pray for wisdom, grace and courage to share God’s Truth with those who oppose them. Pray for those who are determined to torment believers to be won over and transformed by God’s love expressed through His children. http://btw.imb.org/


Baham, Julia Ann

(October 25, 1945 – May 24, 2008)

Died at 2:53 a.m. on Saturday, May 24, 2008 at Our Lady Of The Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA. She was a native of Springfield, LA and a resident of Greensburg, LA. Age 62 years. Visitation on Monday, May 26, 2008 from 9 a.m. until religious services at 3:00 p.m. at Red Bluff Baptist Church, Greensburg. Services conducted by Rev. Starat Cleveland. Interment Red Bluff Cemetery, Greensburg, LA.Survived by, her husband, Douglas Baham, her daughter, Julie O’Brien, her sons, Pee Wee Baham, and Mickey Baham, her sisters, Ella Welch, Mable McMaree, and Dollie Frazier, all of Greensburg, her brothers, Albert Rodriguez and Dewitt Effler both of Livingston, 4 grandchildren, Amanda Allen, Bridgette Baham, Brittainy Baham, Stephanie O’Brien, great grandson, Micheal Ray Allen, numerous nieces, nephews, and step-grandchildren


On Mission in Kentwood

Yesterday, fifteen volunteers worked to help others in our community and let them know God loves them and we love them. It was a very heart-warming experience. You might consider participating next time. You will certainly be blessed.

KneMoonlite

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


LARRY AND JANE Hudson are dear friends from the Main Street church…

They recently invited me to Sunday dinner following the AM worship assembly. This special couple was celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary and so they asked me to go along and commemorate the happy occasion.

Our destination…? Owensboro, Kentucky and Moonlite Bar-B-Q.

Everybody in this neck of the woods knows about Moonlite. Think “casual dining.” Think “family feel.” Think “all-you-can-eat” BBQ buffet. Underline the word “all.” Hungry guests stand in line with a plate and then help themselves to a smorgasbord of tasty, home-style dishes.

Buffet. Choose what you want. Skip what you don’t want. Go back as many times as you wish. This is gastronomical heaven. I loaded my plate with country favorites — mashed potatoes, pulled pork, and green beans, but then skiped the macaroni and cheese, gravy and rolls.

I left the restaurant full as the proverbial tick. Okay, maybe not full — I stopped just one bite shy of gluttony.

The meal was great. The Christian company was even better.

It occurs to me that many preachers treat the Word like a trip to Moonlite. They fill their theological dinner-ware with perennial favorites. They “eat” what their doctrinal belly desires (Phil. 3:19), but then pass over those food items which their denomination deems unpalatable. For instance, some heap their plate with faith, but then consciously omit what the Scriptures teach about baptism. They select SOME of God’s word but not the SUM of God’s word. They claim to be “Bible-believing,” but then do a “Moonlite” on those passages which teach the necessity of immersion.

Does the New Testament require baptism? No? Look again. According to Matt. 28:19-20 baptism is involved in my becoming a disciple of Christ. According to Mark 16:15-16 baptism is something I must engage if I want to be saved. According to Acts 2:37-38 baptism is something I must undergo in order to be forgiven of my sins. According to Acts 8:12-13, 38 baptism is something I must submit to, even if it means changing my religion. According to Acts 10:48 baptism is something I must obey because it has been commanded. According to Acts 16:14-15, 33 baptism is something I will yield to — immediately — in order to be faithful to the Lord. According to Acts 22:16 baptism is something I must do if I desire my past sins to be taken away (cf. Acts 9:6). According to Rom. 6:3-7 baptism is that which makes a difference (slave of sin vs. slave of righteousness) in my life. According to 1 Cor. 12:13 baptism is the means by which I enter the body or church (cf. Eph. 1:22-23). According to Gal. 3:26-27 baptism is the way that I become a child of God. According to 1 Pet. 3:21 baptism saves.

Got your Bible handy? Read through Jeremiah 36. Jeremiah prophesied during the closing days of the Southern kingdom of Judah. On one occasion, the prophet received a divine message from God and then had the words written on a scroll (vv. 1-3). This inspired document was later read to king Jehoiakim by Jehudi (vv. 21). When Jehudi read that the kingdom-nation would be overthrown by the Babylonian empire, Jehoiakim decided he couldn’t “stomach” anymore. The arrogant ruler took a scribe’s penknife, cut up the scroll, and then cast it into the fire until it was consumed (vv. 22-24).

Jehoiakim would have liked Moonlite. Eat what you want. Skip what you don’t want. Mashed potatoes “yes,” dinner rolls “no.” Authoritarian rule “yes,” servile bondage “no.” Faith “yes,” baptism “no.”

Dear reader, the Bible is not a self-serve restaurant. We can’t pick out the parts that we like and then reject or cut out the portions that don’t strike our fancy. We must declare and consume (Jer. 15:16) the whole counsel of God (Acts 20:27; cf. 2 Tim. 4:2-4), including those passages which teach the necessity of baptism. (Mike Benson)

“The sum of your word is truth,and every one of your righteous rules endures forever” (Psm. 119:160).


Have a wonderful Lord’s Day! Be sure you remember it is SONday!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“Go into all the world

and preach the Good News to everyone.”

~Mark 16:15 (NLT)~

 

Billy Ray Johnson

(July 17, 1930 – May 22, 2008)

The angels came and carried Billy Ray Johnson from the Hammond Nursing Home. A Loving wonderful husband and soulmate to Ruby Johnson for more than 35 years. A doting father to Tommy Ray Johnson, Greensburg, LA., Larry and Sybil Brenner, Laplace, LA., Granddaughter and Husband Rebecca Brenner Hicks & Ralph Lee Hicks Jr. of Abita Springs, Grandsons Lawrence Brenner Jr. and Wayne Daigrepont, Kenner. Sister and brother in Law, Mary Lou and Joe Cutrer, Greensburg along with numerous nieces and nephews. He was a retired truck driver and US Air Force veteran, who loved horses and old western movies. Preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Edith Carter Johnson. Services conducted by Rev. Elester Raines and Rev. Nita Jenkins @ McKneely Funeral Home at Amite, LA. On May 26, 2008 from 8:00 AM until 1:00 PM, in funeral chapel. Burial at Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. To follow the chapel services. Family and friends invited for the services. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to family at PO Box 7, Amite, LA. 70422. He was a member of College Town Baptist Church, Hammond, LA.

Baptist Press
May 23, 2008

MEXICO–Mexico City barrios tug at their hearts. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28107

MEXICO–Kindling hope among Mexico City’s homeless. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28108

MEXICO–Unshackling Mexico City to meet Jesus. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28109

FLORIDA–At 48, he’s a new Navy chaplain. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28112

THAILAND–Training manual to bolster Myanmar relief. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28113

ETHIOPIA–Wildfire heightens Ethiopia hunger crisis. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28114

GEORGIA–FIRST-PERSON (Henry Blackaby): Remembering America’s fallen. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28119


A CHANGE OF HEART

I’ve heard two stories lately with a common theme:

Dr. Harry Emerson Fosdick tells a story from his own childhood days. His father had said to his mother, upon leaving the house one Saturday in the morning hours: “Tell Harry that he can cut the grass today, if he feels like it.” Then, halfway down the walk, his father turned once more to add: “And tell Harry that he had better feel like it.”

A similar story:

A new elementary school was raising the American flag for the first time. To make the day special, they had invited a Marine Corps color guard to come out and perform the duty for them. The day before the ceremony, the Marine in charge of the unit called to confirm directions to the school. After doing so, he was asked by the school secretary whether he was sending Marines who like children. There was a brief pause on the other end of the line before the man replied, “Ma’am, if I tell them to like children, they will like children.”

Both of those stories emphasize the point that there is a big difference between doing something and wanting (or liking) to do it. And, as much as a father or a Marine sergeant may command someone to enjoy what they’re doing, it’s just not that simple!

I wish that it was! I can make Christians attend worship, but what I really desire is for them to WANT to attend worship. I can make Christians give more, but what I really desire to for them to WANT to give more. I can make Christians serve in a variety of capacities, but what I really desire is for them to WANT to serve more. It’s so much harder to change what people want to do than it is to change what they do.

But it’s not just hard to change it in others — it’s hard to make that change in my own life as well. I often find myself thinking that I need to pray more, study more, visit more, when what I’d really, really like to find such joy in those things that I WANT to do them more.

When you peel away the outer layers of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and get to the core of what Jesus is saying, this is the principle you find. Jesus doesn’t just want followers who don’t murder; he wants his followers to WANT to live in love. He doesn’t just want followers who don’t commit adultery; he wants his followers to WANT to be people of commitment and integrity. He doesn’t want followers who merely DO the right thing; he wants followers who WANT to do the right thing. He doesn’t just want the actions; he wants the heart.

“Now the purpose of the comamndment

is love from a pure heart,

from a good conscience,

and from sincere faith.”

~I Timothy 1:5~

I continue to struggle with how to change people’s hearts. I continue to struggle with how to change my own heart. May we seek to submit ourselves to the only One who can shape and mold us into what we were made to be.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Show your love for people by helping with On Mission in Kentwood this morning.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

And we know that God

causes everything to work together

for the good of those who love God

and are called according to his purpose

for them.

~Romans 8:28 (NLT)~

Melvin Leonard Varnado
Melvin Leonard Varnado, 78, was born May 20, 1929, and passed away Monday, May 19, 2008, at his home in Denham Springs. He was a native of Kentwood. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Gloria “Jackie” Cowart Varnado; four children, his sons, Kenneth Varnado and wife Janet and Richard Varnado and wife Jean, all of Denham Springs, his daughters, Rhonda Varnado LeBlanc, of Denham Springs, and Susan Varnado Scardina and husband Bryan; honorary daughter and grand-daughter, Chong-Sun Ahn and Jean-Sun Ahn, of Seattle; brother, Carlton Varnado and wife Reona, of Baton Rouge; sisters, Norma Nell V. Fussell, Carlene “Toddy” V. Brumfield and Alta Mae V. Daniel and husband Bob, all of Baton Rouge; nine grandchildren, Scott and Kyle Varnado, and Matthew, Joshua and Riley Varnado, all of Denham Springs, Maverick and Benjamin LeBlanc, of Dutchtown, and Tyler and Rachel Scardina, of Denham Springs. He was preceded in death by his parents, T.C. and Irene Varnado, of Kentwood; brothers, Harold Thomas, Sheldon and Landon Varnado; and sisters, Viola “Poolie” Hill and Mildred Miscar. He was a member of First Baptist Church of Denham Springs for more than 50 years. He served his country in the U.S. Navy and retired from his own business, Leonard’s Plumbing, at age 65. He cherished being a husband, father and grandfather to his family and relished time spent fishing with friends. Visitation at Seale Funeral Home, Denham Springs, on Wednesday, May 21, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visitation at First Baptist Church, Denham Springs, on Thursday, May 22, from 9 a.m. until funeral service at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. James Spillman. Burial in Evergreen Memorial Park, Denham Springs. Pallbearers will be his eight grandsons, Scott Varnado, Kyle Varnado, Matthew Varnado, Joshua Varnado, Maverick LeBlanc, Benjamin LeBlanc, Riley Varnado and Tyler Scardina. Honorary pallbearers are Jack Reid Sr., Reymond D’Armond, Sam Williams, A.J. Lavigne, C.J. Rushing, Gary Pertuis, Cart Varnado and Bob Daniel. The family asks that memorial donations be made to St. Joseph’s Hospice or to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Please continue to pray for the Rhodus, Hart, and Varnodo families.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Wednesday, May 21, 2008

“The angel of the LORD encamps all around those who fear Him, And delivers them” (Psalm 34:7, NKJV)

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, praying with you for our brothers and sisters in Christ who face persecution.

A house church meeting was interrupted by a crowd of Muslim men. The instigator of the mob spoke, “You should not be teaching these things! You cannot convert Muslims to Christianity!” He was angry because his 17-year-old son had recently accepted Jesus as Savior, and had been baptized. His son and a friend were sharing the truth they had learned with others in the community. The mob slapped and beat the church leader, and ultimately reported him to the police. The leader was baffled. “I was doing nothing wrong. I wasn’t forcing anyone. All of these men had already given their lives to Jesus. I was just teaching them.” The police breathed extortion, and in fear, too little faith, and a mistake in judgment, a bribe was paid.

For a Lozi school teacher named M, becoming a Christian has threatened his job. The headmaster at M’s school is a member of a cult that does not believe in Jesus as the only way to salvation. The headmaster is very upset that M has joined a Baptist church. Now the headmaster is spreading lies: He is accusing missionaries of coming to steal and kill the school children, and is telling others that the Baptist church members are really Satan worshippers. He makes M’s personal and professional life very difficult. Pray that M will continue to stand firm in his faith.

*Please pray that God will grant wisdom to those sharing Jesus in their oppressive communities and that they will not give in to extortion.

*Ask the Lord to send His angel to camp around these believers and to protect them from all physical, spiritual and emotional attacks.

*Intercede for the angry mob members and the headmaster that they will come face to face with the living God, bowing the knee in surrender to Jesus Christ.


KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
PSYCHOLOGISTS TELL US that one of the deepest urges in human nature is the craving to be appreciated…

Thus, we contribute immeasurably to the happiness and success of others when we express appreciation for their work and worth.

We are also advised that the giving of sincere praise brings out outstanding benefits to the one who gives it. Thus, we contribute immeasurably to our own happiness and success when we express appreciation for others.

Observation teaches that the most successful people have mastered the art of giving praise.

Giving honest praise is like “saying grace” at the table…very difficult to start, if it hasn’t been our pattern. Here are some guidelines to get one started.

1. Look for little things for which you can express appreciation. We tend to wait for colossal achievements before uttering one word of commendation or encouragement. Rare and refreshing is the person who goes on a “treasure hunt” searching for little things to praise.

2. Look for things close at hand for which you can express appreciation. The human tendency is to see glamour in things at a distance and defects in things close at hand. It doesn’t take much sense to find fault with things and people close by. Conversely, it requires sensitive perception to detect the genuine worth of nearby treasures.

3. Voice your appreciation. It isn’t that we don’t appreciation others…it’s just that, for some unknown reason, we are hesitant to voice that feeling. It is necessary to say nice things to have them do good…not merely think them. By not acting quickly to praise one for his work the impulse often fades away.

It may well be that one of the greatest duties you can perform this day will be speaking a word of appreciation. (John Gipson)

“Now we exhort you, brethren, warn those who are unruly, comfort the fainthearted, uphold the weak, be patient with all” (1 Thess. 5:14).

I appreciate your prayers for various needs each day! I appreciate those who inform me of needs. I appreciate those who encourage me.

Anna Lee