Monday

In that day they will say,

“Surely this is our God;

we trusted in him, and he saved us.

This is the LORD, we trusted in him;

let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”

~Isaiah 25:9~

 

I’ll start out with two good updates.  Thank you for your continued prayers for these two.

Susie Sharkey is improving.  Her family is sticking close during this time.

Kenneth Birch had his first day without so much pain.  His daughter, visiting for a few days, was probably an encouragement to both her parents.

I’ll remind you to pray for Bob Holmes and his family.  Bob has been missing in Livingston parish.  His wife is a member of the Howell family.

Please pray for Phillip Strickland who has recently been found to have cancer and will be starting treatment soon.  Pray for members of the family as they travel this journey with him.

 

Frank “Billy” Leroy Denham, Jr.

February 28, 1943 – December 18, 2016

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&o_id=4042062&fh_id=10545

 

The Christmas program at FBC,Kentwood last night was good.  Once again, the children “stole the show”!  The music by the adult choir was beautiful.  The church is blessed by so many talented people!

Adults, youth, and children will be caroling Wednesday beginning at 5 P.M.  Children who plan to participate need a signed permission slip.  If they did not receive one in the mail, their parents should contact/visit the church office to sign the form.

Christmas Eve Service at FBC, Kentwood – 5 P.M.

 

Friday morning Bible study will meet as usual at 10:00.  We will begin John 13.

 

Baptist Press bpnews.net

 

Scripture Writing Luke 1:46-50

 

Opportunities for groups to do short-term work in missions – https://www.imb.org/opportunities-groups/

 

Learn something new about Lottie Moon and her ministry.  Share this with your children and grandchildren.

http://www.baptistheritage.org/storiesforkids/thestoryoflottiemoon/tabid/259/default.aspx

 

 

And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High;

for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him,

to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins,

because of the tender mercy of our God,

by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven.

~Luke 1:76-78 (NIV)~

 

“There’s a Song in the Air”

 

I hope you are singing this and other Christmas carols today.  

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday

For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace.

~Isaiah 9:6~

 

Sandy Bennett Morgan has been feeling better.  She goes back for lab work on the 27th.  Let’s pray for a good report.

Hazel Allen is now living at Kentwood Manor.  Pray for her and for her family as they make the adjustment.

Mary Criswell said her oldest brother, Max (Brent) of Ohio, passed away.  Please pray for the family as they face this loss.

I received work that Gail Morris Miller Smith has recently been diagnosed with cancer.  Please pray for her and for her family as she takes on this battle.

Pray for Susie Sharkey as she faces another day post shoulder surgery.

Pray for Mrs. Anne Hurst as she builds up strength and looks forward to company at Christmas.

 

Sherida “Sheri” Bridges

August 14, 1948 – December 14, 2016

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&o_id=4041108&fh_id=10545

Arvy Cutrer

January 02, 1941 – December 11, 2016

Patricia Corbin 
August 10,1960 – December 12, 2016.
Services will be at New Covenant Church Tuesday, December 20th from 5-7pm.
Scripture Writing – Luke 1:26-29
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
                                                                                                                                   ~ Matthew 1:20-21 (NIV) ~
“Away in a Manger”
  • Lyrics – https://www.carols.org.uk/away_in_a_manger.htm
  • Story – https://bibleheartburn.com/2013/12/11/the-story-behind-away-in-a-manger/
  • YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnwO_0DrpCk
  • I would like to honor Rev. Bill Ichter today.  It was Bro. Bill who taught me in the first church choir that I can remember and this Christmas carol that comes to my mind.  He later served as a music missionary to Brazil for many years.  He and his wife now live in the Shreveport area where he recently celebrated his 90th birthday.  He has generations of family defendants who have served/are serving as missionaries around the world.  He is one of my heroes!
Breakfast Buffet at Pine Ridge United Methodist Church tomorrow morning at 8 A.M.
Donations will be received for a worthy need.
Jesus come to earth to provide an opportunity for us to have everlasting life.  As we celebrate that wonderful gift, let’s do something to pass His love on to others.
Anna Lee

Wednesday, Part 2

In my haste, I did not publish part 1 for today.  I just realized that.  Better late than never!

 

David and I got to see our grandson, Braden Alford, receive the Eagle Scout Honor last night.  We were so thankful David got permission to travel there after months of not being able to do so.  God’s timing was perfect!

 

Scripture Writing – Day 14 – Matthew 1:21-25

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

Mission Opportunities for Students – “Bring the Savior to the Slum” – https://www.imb.org/opportunities/?id=00fc9b66-eb35-4abd-a31b-d4f8f3b0b796&ReturnURL=/opportunities-for-students/

 

“Joy to the World”

I hope that despite any losses, sadness, or problems you may have in your life, you can still find the JOY of JESUS!

Anna Lee

Monday Afternoon

Mr. J.D. Smith went back in North Oaks Sunday evening.  The doctors are still trying to determine if he has pneumonia or some other problem.  Please add him to your prayer list.

Mrs. Donald  Yarborough of Johnson Station decided to enjoy the singing in heaven rather than the members of her church who were coming to sing music from their cantata. She has moved to her heavenly home.  She is Don Yarborough’s mother.  Please pray for the family.

 

Monday

The true light that gives light to everyone

was coming into the world.

He was in the world,

and though the world was made through him,

the world did not recognize him.

~John 1:9-10~

Kathy Dale Forrest – (I know many of you are waiting for this.)

February 12, 1953 – December 10, 2016

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&o_id=4036453&fh_id=10545

 

Scripture WritingMalachi 3:1-3

 

Baptist Pressbpnews.net

Louisiana Baptist Messagebaptistmessage.com

Waylon Bailey waylonbailey.com

Thom S. Rainer thomrainerp.com

 

 

But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.                                                                                                                                                  ~Galatians 4:4-5 (NIV)~

“What Child is This”

 

Children on Mission 

  • Birthday Party for Jesus
  • Wednesday at 6 P.M.
  • You don’t have to bring anything.

 

Third Thursday at the Cabin

  • This week
  • 6:30
  • Let’s sing some Christmas carols!

 

Friday Morning Bible Study 

  • John 13
  • 10 A.M.
  • Fellowship Hall

 

Share the holiday news with others.  It’s Jesus!

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

Saturday

“You will all be joined together,

and you will give glory to God

the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Christ accepted you,

so you should accept each other,

which will bring glory to God.”

~Romans 15:6-7 NCV~

 

Mr. Philip Harrell has his ups and downs.  Today, he did not feel his best.  Please pray for him and “Miss” Annie Bell.

The Harrells said their son-in-law’s mother in Johnson Station, MS had a stroke overnight.  Earlier this week she had her children pray that she would spend Christmas in heaven this year.  That surely sounds like a lady who is ready to “go home”.  Please pray for Don Yarborough and his family.

Update on Mrs. Anne Hurst:

Anne Hurst met with the Doctor again on Friday because of a poor health week at home.  More test made and new prescriptions.   Praying for a better week ahead.  She asks for continued prayer.

Those of us who were not affected by the flooding in August and who do not travel in those areas can go on with our lives as usual.  That’s not true for everyone though.  I’m reminded of some friends who are hoping to be in their home for Christmas.  Tonight, we learned that David’s brother and sister-in-law will get a temporary trailer before Christmas.  They are still sleeping in a camper on the back of a pick-up.  It was their way to stay close to their house.  I also recently heard there are still people who are living in tents.  It is good to hear of improving conditions for some of them and wonderful to hear of groups who are still helping individuals, churches, schools, etc.  What can I do to help?  What can you do to help?  What are we willing to do?

 

Two Baptist Press stories I want to point out to you:

  1. “Gatlinburg fire suspects elicit churches’ sympathy” – http://www.bpnews.net/48022/gatlinburg-fire-suspects-elicit-churches-sympathy
  2. “Journey to pastorate included jail time for Fla. pastor” – http://www.bpnews.net/48026/journey-to-pastorate-included-jail-time-for-fla-pastor

Special Dates

  • 14th – Birthday Party for Jesus in Children’s Missions (6 P.M.)
  • 15th – Third Thursday at the Cabin (6:30 P.M.)
  • 18th – Cantata music by adults and children – 6 P.M.
  • 20th – “Young” Ladies’ Birthday Party at The Cafe (11 A.M.)
  • 21st – Church-wide Christmas Caroling (5 P.M.)
  • 24th – Christmas Eve Service (5:30 P.M.)
  • 25th – No services at FBC

 

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

The tree is up in the sanctuary.  Red and green ornaments will be placed on the tree as money is received.  When we accomplish our goal, the next ornaments will be gold and represent gifts toward our Hallelujah goal.

 

Since there is a focus on missions, Lottie Moon Christmas Offering, this month, I’ve chosen a Christmas Carol that tells us to go and tell, two of the components of missions.

“Go, Tell It on the Mountain”

 

 “Go, Tell It on the Mountain”!

Anna Lee

 

 

 

Saturday

But be sure to fear the LORD

and serve him faithfully with all your heart;

consider what great things he has done for you.

~1 Samuel 12:24~

 

New Baby! – Tanner Cayle Miller, son of Josh and Nikki, was born at 9:45 yesterday morning.  He weighed 6 lb. 13 oz. and is 20 in. long.  His big brother is excited!

 

Coach Elton Shaw came home last night. Please pray for him as he continues to improve.

Mrs. Anne Hurst also came home.  Ten days was a long stay for her.  Pray for her continued health.

David received another good report yesterday!  We are so thankful!  The doctor was as excited for David as we were.  God was given all the credit.

Jean Gunnells Trout

August 22, 1944 – December 02, 2016

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&o_id=4028443&fh_id=10545

 

Spring Creek Baptist Church will present “Meeting at the Manger” tomorrow morning at 11 A.M.  You are invited to attend.  It’s always a blessing to see children in a Christmas program.

Two Rivers WMU will have their annual Lottie Moon Tea at FBC, Kentwood Sunday afternoon at 2 P.M. for all ladies from 3 to 103.  You are invited to come begin the Week of Prayer for International Missions with us.

 

Scripture Writing – Isaiah 11:1-5 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+11%3A1-5&version=NIV

 

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. — John 6:35 (NIV)

“Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus”

 

Do something today that will impact a life forever.

Anna Lee

 

Monday

From yesterday –

Thanksgiving, Day 27 – I’m thankful for the cooler weather so we can enjoy different foods. Yesterday, I made vegetable beef soup. Today, I enjoyed shrimp gumbo.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving

and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him

and praise his name.

~Psalm 100:4~

Thankfulness, Day 28 –   Today, I want to say that I always appreciate those who agree to take on responsibility when a need is presented to them.  They are dependable, so once they agree to do something, you can count on them.  Even better than that, I appreciate those who don’t have to be asked, but who can see a need and volunteer without being called upon.  I know God surely wears an extra big smile when they “volunteer”.

 

Ann Trappey asks for prayer or her family.  Ann’s sister, Helen Lilly, who was the primary caregiver for their mother is very ill.  Ann’s mother is recovering from another broken hip and running out of time at the present location.  Pray for Ann’s brrother as he tries to work out some things to help their family situation.  Sometimes, families carry many burdens at one time and the load seems so overwhelming.  Your prayers will me a lot to this family.

Debi Bales and her family need special prayers for their mother who is in Landmark Nursing Home.  I know your prayers will be appreciated.

 

Scripture WritingPsalm 118:25-29

Baptist Pressbpnews.net

 

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name;

make known among the nations what he has done.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        ~1 Chronicles 16:8 (NIV)~

“Praise Ye the Lord!”

 

Homebound Video Ministry – Start-up will be delayed by one month due to technical issues.

Lottie Moon Christmas Tea – Sunday at 2 P.M. at FBC, Kentwood.  Come enjoy some lady time, enjoy the mission emphasis, hear some music from each of the churches, and sample some afternoon treats!  All ladies, from 33-103 years, are encouraged to attend.

 

Enjoy this day the Lord has planned for us today.  I’m sure that, no matter what, he has a real “treat of a day” ready for us.

Anna Lee

 

 

 

Saturday

I will give thanks to the LORD

because of his righteousness;

I will sing the praises

of the name of the LORD Most High.

~Psalm 7:17~

Mrs. Margaret Callihan is now hospitalized in North Oaks where she will possibly have surgery next week.  Please keep her in your prayers.

Tomorrow morning, the ladies of Pine Ridge will host their monthly breakfast.  Donations will be used to help a family in need.
Thankfulness, Day 26 – Today, I’m thankful for the freedom of worship we have and all the area churches that have impacted my life or the life of my ancestors.  There is great joy in going into the church where your family attended and served three or four generations ago.  It helps you connect with people you didn’t know.  I’m thankful to say my family has a rich history of church service, which I hope I’m passing down to my descendants.  I have made several meaningful church connections since we moved to the Pine Ridge community.
Scripture WritingPsalm 118:8-14
Baptist Pressbpnews.net
Homebound Video Ministry – If you know of church members who are unable to attend church, please give me their names.  Thank-you!
“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~
“Jesus Loves the Little Children”

 

 

Have a wonderful weekend!

Anna Lee

Operation Christmas Child Report and Death Notice

The final report from our FBC, Kentwood Drop-Off Location for “shoeboxes”.

  • 18 church/individuals contributed
  • 12 volunteers worked 154 hours during the past week
  • 1126 shoeboxes were shipped in 61 cartons

I’m thankful to each person who helped in the collection/packing of 325 shoeboxes at FBC, Kentwood.  I appreciate those who worked this week.  The drop-off location was new to us.  We learned how we can improve for the future.  It was good to know how much we got right the first year.

May God bless each of you and each boy or girl who receives a shoebox.  May they learn about Jesus partially because of the great efforts of all of you.

 

 

Elmer Ray White

July 27, 1939 – November 20, 2016

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&o_id=4011656&fh_id=10545

Please pray for this family.