Devotional – Page 216 – The Prayer Link

Wednesday

“Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them,

I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock:

and the rain descended, the floods came,

and the winds blew and beat on that house;

and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.”

~Matthew 7:24-25, NKVJ~

Maggie Lee Henson

Tuesday, July 21, 2009 2:05 PM, CDT

The trek down to the CT scan went well–thank

s to your prayers and the great nurses and team who accompany her down. I’ll post a picture soon of what it looks like heading down the hallway. The trek in and of itself is risky, but the team watches every detail, juggling monitors, breathing apparati, lines, etc.

We are awaiting results of the scan and will update with what we learn.
–John

Tuesday, July 21, 2009 6:26 PM, CDT

A very good day for MLH. She had an additional CT scan which showed slight improvement in swelling. She tolerated the field trip well-what a vast improvement from monday a week ago.
Her icp is being contained. She got a blood infusion which she loved! They cut back on her epi twice (it boosts blood pressure) her icp hit an all time low of 17 which is terrific.
We further decorated her room, putting the slogan “miracles happen” on her window as a constant reminder.
God is good!
Pleas

e pray for;
-continued improvement in blood pressure
-continued drop in ICP
-more reactive pupils
-a continued unfolding of God’s miracle!
Thank you. Please keep it up!!
Oh- Happy Birthday, Madeline Richardson! Maggie Lee loves her twin cousin!!!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009 11:19 PM, CDT

I was recently digging around in the outer flap of my computer bag. Some say it is my manbag, but I carry no such item. As I was hunting for a cord for my computer, I found something I had not seen since early into this nightmare. It is a small zip lock bag, with “Speciman Bag. BIOHAZARD.” and directions with four steps on how to insert something into it. Inside the bag is something very non-biohazardous, but something that must have been inserted with a few tears, a measure of compassion and perhaps a prayer.

Inside the bag is a ring that Maggie Lee was wearing when they found her. It’s a ring that Jinny bought for her when she was coming back recently from a trip to Knoxville, one to serve as an encircling reminder of how much she believes in Maggie Lee. It was given to her to wear while going off to Camp Crestridge for two weeks of camp, where she didn’t yet know anyone and would be 900 miles from home. Jinny knew she wouldn’t know anyone at camp and wanted her to remember how much she believed in her and her dreams even though they would be apart.”

Jinny is the greatest encourager I know. It’s a gift of hers and she is more than willing to pour it out liberally on anyone she sees. If you know Jinny, you know its generous, loud and completely heartfelt. It is the fuel in my tank and it is dispensed constantly in our house to accomplish anything from taking a math test, preaching a sermon or even to pulling a tooth. I had no idea she gave this ring to Maggie Lee, but it doesn’t surprise me at all to learn of it tonight.

As I read the ring, the words stood out to me, especially as I think of how they are so fitting of the way Maggie Lee lives her life. Engraved on the ring are these words:

Dream. Fly. Dance. Sing.

I am looking at her now, asleep in the bed, knowing that it’s not time for her to go. She is too young, too full of dreams, flight, dance and song. As I look at her beautiful, unusually quiet self resting in this bed, my prayer, O Lord, is for her to . . .

Dream.
Fly.
Dance.
Sing.

May it be so, Lord God. May it be so.

–John

You turned my wailing into dancing;
you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy,

Psalm 30:11

(70,285 – number of times someone has viewed the Caring Bridge site for Maggie Lee in one week! Many prayers have been said for this young lady and her family!!! http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maggieleehenson)

Keep praying!

Cottage prayer meeting for our country will be held at 6:30tonight in the homes of Mrs. Wanzie Williams and Rev. and Mrs. Joey Miller.

KneEmail

Reap

EVER PLANT A garden…?

Or maybe just a few flowers in a bed or a plant in a pot? Something makes it possible for the gardener to function, or a farmer to produce a crop is a “law” of nature. “Law” really isn’t a very good word, but because it really is just an observation of the consistency of nature. Whatever kind of seed is planted is the kind of plant that will be produced. A farmer can know that when he plants wheat, that wheat is the plant that will grow. It is not random or arbitrary. Wheat seed produces wheat plants and corn seed produces corn plants. Farmers and gardeners can count on it.

What is just as true, though not as readily recognized, is that this same “law” applies in all of life. Whatever a person sows, that is what they will reap. To think otherwise is not only ludicrous, it also mocks God.

We have two choices. We either sow to the flesh or the spirit. This same letter outlines the differences between living according to the flesh and according to the spirit ( Galatians 516-18). Sowing to the flesh is involvement in the “deeds of the flesh” ( Galatians 5:19-21). The consequence os involvement in these is corruption and exclusion from God’s kingdom ( Galatians 5:21; 6:8). This is the harvest resulting from sowing those seeds. Just as surely as planting wheat seeds results in a harvest of wheat. We can count on it. (David Deffenbaugh, Bill McFarland)

“Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap.”Galatians 6:7

Posted by Mike Benson at July 21, 2009

Striving to sow the right “seeds”!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Give ear to my words,

O Lord, consider my meditation.

Give heed to the voice of my cry,

my King and my God,

for to You I will pray.”

~Psalm 5:1-2~

Please continue to pray for Mrs. Nadine Council. She’s in Sage Rehabilitation Hospital in Baton Rouge, but unable to begin rehabilitation because of continued nausea. Your prayers will be greatly appreciated.

Continue to pray for Mrs. Annie Belle Harrell. She continues to have appointments and procedures to improve her condition.

Maggie Lee Henson

Monday, July 20, 2009 6:35 AM, CDT

It’s almost time for the nursing shift change and we have to be out from 7am-8am. As I leave, things are in better shape, with ML’s ICP down to 22.

My days of running Cross Country and long distances are coming to mind as I think about the ups and downs of the race. Sometimes you feel strong and that your body parts are all working together. At other times, you feel that, if you could just get your side stitches to stop or your knee to quit hurting, then you could make real progress. This race we are on with Maggie Lee isn’t a sprint and we are experiencing the stitches right now, but believing that there will be better days, longer strides and the joy of progress. Jinny and I are also thinking of some records we would like to see broken as well. –John

Monday, July 20, 2009 11:42 AM, CDT

Icp spiked to high 30s just now. Please God, get this under control! –Jinny

Monday, July 20, 2009 2:57 PM, CDT

Met w nuerologist, she said MLH is stubborn about unswelling. Stubborn? Maggie Lee? Really? We just have to keep doing what we are doing and wait until she is unswollen to pull her off of the meds keeping her brain still. Great news she said: She’s still here. Each day she is is a blessing. Thank you please do not stop. –Jinny

Monday, July 20, 2009 8:46 PM, CDT

From katie Little;
Jinny, I went to open my workbook for my Beth Moore Bible study and was just floored by what she said for today, “God deliberately created the human mind so complex that modern medicine would seek many answers in vain. The brain retains a vast measure of mystery and commands a deep respect.” What a Godstop! He is listening to our prayers and all we need to do is wait and watch.

Monday, July 20, 2009 8:54 PM, CDT

From my friend, Ricky Fram, M.D;
I believe in miracles. I believe in what may seem like is not possible. I have healed children who suffered over 98% burns over their body. I watched them walk out of the hospital and play soccer with their friends. Too many numerous times to tell did I experience this. Too many times has it touched my life and changed it forever. I never give up, never. How can you when you experience God’s gifts like these children? Praying and believing…

Monday, July 20, 2009 9:37 PM, CDT

A few folks have asked about our arrangements here at the hospital, so I thought I would describe things. We are in the Pediatric Critical Care Unit at Univ. of Miss. Medical Center. Specifically, it is the Batson Children’s Hospital.

The floor is open for the most part, with curtains that separate patients on one side of the floor. I’m not for sure, but it appears that when you get better, you get to move to the other side, where there are rooms, walls and doors. The openness of our side provides easy access and monitoring of each patient.

Since arriving, we have had 24/7 one-on-one care (and, wow, what skill and ability these folks have) from a nurse and a team of doctors and residents. As I look now at Maggie Lee, I see too many lines to count (from what I hear Maggie Lee ties with someone else the most number of lines they’ve had). There are monitors flashing numbers, machines beeping, babies crying, doctors talking, parents whispering, people praying, and the sound of Maggie Lee’s breathing machine.

As I look up at my beautiful girl, I see that her mother has softened the sterile decorations with things loving people have given to Maggie Lee since she arrived here–a pink throw at Maggie Lee’s feet, a pink pillow case with giraffe styling and engraved name underneath Maggie Lee’s head, a Chihuahua ornament in the likes of Ellie dangling from a rod, pictures on a huge poster board with FBCS friends, cards from people we know and people we don’t, a stuffed turtle underneath Maggie Lee’s hand, a balloon tied behind her with the words “here’s to a speedy recovery” on it, a cross, artwork from Jack, and a big #23 marking our current Jackson address.

And, there are two chairs beside Maggie Lee. They look normal and could be place almost anywhere, yet in here they are for us launching pads for prayer, fixtures on the roller coaster and stations of hope.

John

KneEmail

Layaway

(DID YOU KNOW that some advice is offered on the layaway plan…?

You may have no need of it today, but it can be stored in your mind and reserved for some time later. (I use advice today that I laid away years ago–advice that made little sense to me as a teenager but has wisdom I can fully appreciate today.)

Someone gave me advice on how to keep a job before I even filled out my first resume, advice on how to handle bills even before I ever had any, and advice about marriage long before I ever started dating. (My parents told me the best way to keep my marriage healthy was to “board up the kitchen and eat out.”)

I couldn’t use much of that advice in the fourth grade, but I still listened. And when the day came that I got a job, got my first bill, and said, “I do,” I had a storehouse of good advice to draw from.

When someone gives you good advice, don’t tune it out because you don’t feel you need it right now. Put it on layaway. Keep it in reserve. Who knows? It could come in very handy some day. (Martha Bolton)

“Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.”

Proverbs 4:13

Posted by Mike Benson

Thank you for blessing others by praying today. As you read the list, please pray for others whose names may not be listed here. Pray works. Keep it up.

Anna Lee

Monday

“But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly;

the Lord will hear when I call to Him.”

~Psalm 4:3~

Pray for Judy Easley’s son-in-law, Shawn Boddin, as he has surgery tomorrow at the Neuromedical Hospital in Baton Rouge. He will be having two vertebra fused and should only be hospitalized overnight. This is because of the boating accident.

Pray for Mrs. Evelyn Bridges who is experiencing a throat problem.

Maggie Lee Henson

Sunday, July 19, 2009 11:55 AM, CDT

Generous, generous friends-

We are so grateful for all of you.

Please, please,plea

se do not stop petitioning God to heal Maggie Lee.

Currently, her ICP is 31. ok, it’s now 26.

I have not ever noticed the dog in the lower left hand corner of this picture of Maggie Lee at our front door. That would be Jack’s venti terrier, Fiona. She is really hacked off in the kennel this morning with our grande dog, Bandit. Ellie, of course, being the tall 🙂

Perhaps that is why we have each other on the road of faith, to point out things along the way that we would otherwise miss. Thank you all for pointing out your favorite promises from God’s word and prayers this past. To God be all praise and glory.

love
jin

Sunday, July 19, 2009 3:06 PM, CDT

Maggie Lee’s favorite picture of herself. Please keep praying!
ICP Creeping up to higher twenties, still on saline to keep it down.
Keep the vibrant faith!

Sunday, July 19, 2009 9:10 PM, CDT

Sunday Night Our daughter is a fighter. We full well know we need a miracle and are awaiting that. As much as we watch and pray and hold our breath, we know that Maggie Lee is utterly in God’s hands. Her lungs look FABULOUS, the ICP the dr would still like to be under twenty and not spike to 30 like it did occasionall

y today. We have a 2nd opinion, with a dr. who read the CTs and notes and gave us some great perspective in all of this. We feel very good about where she is and every day that she is here is a miracle. Her nurses call up there all the time to check on her and many even check her carepages. Bottom line, only a miracle will help Maggie Lee, so we pray for that and wait for God’s provision however we see fit. Last year after being so sick, maggie Lee was discouraged. She then said, “It’s OK, Mom, I know my time will come.” I cannot help but think

Monday, July 20, 2009 1:30 AM, CDT

I am arriving at the hospital and relieving Jinny’s mom–Judy/M

imi–from her 8pm-1am shift. Maggie Lee’s ICP is still in 20’s but apparently has stayed in higher 20’s. The plan of care is being tweaked some and I think there will be some variations from the norm as that takes place.

Please continue to pray that the pressure will go down on its own more as each hour passes.

My favorite Psalm is 139 and it has a great reminder to read at night/early morning. I ran across it and other Scripture in the Daily Evening Prayer in the BCP:

Yours is the day, O God, yours also the night; you established
the moon and the sun. You fixed all the boundaries of the
earth; you made both summer and winter. Psalm 74:15,16

I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel; my heart teaches
me, night after night. I have set the Lord always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not fall. Psalm 16:7,8

Seek him who made the Pleiades and Orion, and turns deep
darkness into the morning, and darkens the day into night;
who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon
the surface of the earth: The Lord is his name. Amos 5:8
If I say, “Surely the darkness will cover me, and the light
around me turn to night,” darkness is not dark to you, O
Lord; the night is as bright as the day; darkness and light to
you are both alike. Psalm 139:10,11

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; whoever follows me
will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12

It ends with Jesus as Light of the World. Jesus has been Maggie Lee’s Lord and Savior since age 7 and he continues to be her light, even in the night.

Funeral arrangements for Bennie Gaylon Simmons are still incomplete. Please continue to remember the family in your prayers.

FBC, Kentwood – Deacons of the Week – Larry Miller and Henry McKenzie

KneEmail

Testing

WHENEVER YOU FIND yourself going through times of testing, there is always a reason…a very good reason…

In fact, there are several reasons. Testing times are to:

UNCOVER something: When God allows pressures and trials, it is so that you might uncover something in your life He wants to deal with. Hardships reveal areas of weakness and vulnerability. God wants to strengthen us in those very areas, and better equip us not only to stand strong in the storms ourselves, but also to be a shelter for others.

RECOVER something: God allows us to be tested so that we might recover something we’ve lost over the months and years. Perhaps it is our delight in the Word of God, a habit of daily prayer, or the delight of regular fellowship with those of like-precious faith. Trials may force us back to that “first love” walk with the Lord that has slipped away from us.

DISCOVER something: Even though it’s a test you may not like or enjoy, you discover that He’s your God, you’re His child, and that He loves you. He’ll care for you and see you through.

I hear people talk about this trial and that trial, this test and that test. People will say, “Pray for me, I’m going through a trial in my marriage (or in my job or in my finances or in my relationships at home).” But in reality, those aren’t the things being tested at all. What’s being tested is our faith, whether we will really trust Him to work in and through our circumstances.

That’s what’s really at stake. When the heat’s on…when the shadows fall…when disappointment rips through my heart…am I going to trust Him? Am I going to wait on Him, worship Him, and give my anxieties to Him? Or am I going to turn away from Him in my doubt and discouragement? (Ron Mehl)

“And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations,

knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;

and perseverance, character;

and character, hope.

Now hope does not disappoint,

because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts

by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

Romans 5:3-5

Posted by Mike Benson

Have a marvelous Monday!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“Give thanks to the LORD; proclaim His name!

Celebrate His deeds among the peoples.

Declare that His name is exalted.

Sing to the LORD, for He has done glorious things.

Let this be known throughout the earth.”

~Isaiah 12:4b-5, HCSB~

Jimmy and Retia Duke

Saturday, July 18, 2009 11:19 PM, EDT

Delerium

Mom is not doing better and better although she is trending up. She is cognitively challenged right now. We don’t know how much it is her being in the hospitals 4 walls for over 3 mos, or the brain injury, or her medicine.

We pray she will be greatly affected by reducing or stopping some of her medicine in the next week. We may know monday a date from the neurosurgeon. She is talking, eating and sleeping well. Really she talks and sleeps all the time.

Dad is admirably caring for his bride. For better or for worse is not just words he uttered and a useless ceremony. He believed what he said, he meant what he said. He is, in an example of Christ, serving his bride.

Thank you for serving us with your encouragement, your prayer, and the love you have shown us. Continue to pray for mom and dad’s bodies to heal, for mom’s mind to be made well, and for their hearts to be held by the holy spirit in a way that gives them peace and allows them to coninue to keep their focus breath by breath on God as Christ himself intercedes for them. May they be made whole again.

Jason will be back monday and pop will probably post tomorrow, I like hearing his heart in his post. We are thankful for the church being the church. With that in mind keep watching for Jason’s book. He has been busy with tragedy and trying to lead men and women to continue to being the church at Westpoint. If someone one may read it, it will come. peace e.

Don Denton

Here I am one week after my last post. It has been a very busy week. Don continues to get stronger physically. He is still at 147lbs and 6.1ft. tall. But the steroids have allot to do with that.

Don’s CAT Scan came back with no increase in inflammation. So that is a good thing. He saw his opthamologist this last week as well and he is beginning to develop cateracts from the steroids. Once Don tapers down which we have started to do successfully so far. So, once Don is at a lower level that will make a real difference with the progression of cateracts. It will help slow it.

Joshua is doing OK. We are starting to prepare for pre-school this fall. He is excited. We have had a good week this week.

Tonight I made pancakes for supper, packed them up in the car with Don and Josh and we went to the park and had supper. It was a great night to be there. Our weather has been beautiful the past few days.

Here we are at the end of July, this year has flown by in some ways and in others it has seemed like the longest year of my life. I missed my nieces wedding this weekend. Don and I have missed several events this year. Again I find myself reflecting on the losses, that has been really hard.

And it is a real balance of what is lost and being able to grieve that. And then holding onto the hope for what each day brings. Just to be able to go to the park together is a big thing for us.

Don is well on his way with being out of the hospital for almost two months come August. That is another huge accomplishment.

We have so much to be thankful for this day. I find myself reflecting on all that you all have done for us. We have been held up in prayer which we still so need. We have been ministered to in so many precious ways. I have so many “thank yous” to send. I thank God for you all.

Bless you our family and friends.
Diane

Maggie Lee Henson

I’m back with Maggie Lee after getting some rest. My dad has been with her since 8:00 and passed off to me a report that things are staying the same. It is quiet up here with Maggie Lee and even the babies aren’t crying (one was going off the other night like a siren).

I just picked up a snack out in the waiting room and downed a cup of Seattle’s best from the cafeteria. I’m not sure I want to go to Seattle again after that cup,but it woke me up a little.

Eating the snack reminded me of how great the people of Jackson are. Churches and individuals have kept us well fed and loved and we are continually blessed by the support of this wonderful city. Thanks, Jackson!

Bennie G. Simmons
(February 1, 1941 – July 18, 2009)

Bennie G. Simmons was born February 1, 1941 and passed away at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Ochsner Hospital, Elmwood, Harahan, LA. Bennie was 68, and a resident of Line Creek, LA.Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

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

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

Bruce Tassin
(August 4, 1949 – July 18, 2009)

Bruce Tassin was born August 4, 1949 and passed away at 7:58 a.m., Saturday, July 18, 2009 at his residence. Bruce was 59 and a resident of Amite.Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

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

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

KneEmail

Health

THE FUTURE OF our nation’s health care system is in the spotlight…

Congress has been asked to pass a package of legislation with an unimaginable price tag. No one denies that there is a need to make changes to our present system. The way to fix the system is where paths diverge.

But there’s another matter that should take even higher priority: our souls.

Jesus affirmed that truth:

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world,

and loses his own soul?

Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

Matthew 16:26 (NKJV)

One’s spiritual well-being, however, is low on the list for most people. As long as life is going reasonably well, why fret over religion?

Religion was not on the to-do list of the rich man of Luke 16 . He

“fared sumptuously every day”,

according to Jesus, and didn’t notice the beggar lying at his gate.

Luke 16:10-21

When he died his perspective changed.

Finding himself in flames, his only concerns were a drop of water to cool his tongue and someone to warn his brothers — still living — not to come to

“this place of torment”.

Luke 16:24-28

Food, clothes and housing were no longer important to him.

How we need to hear the message of God’s word! Our lives are much more than the physical. As Jesus taught in the passage above, we each have a soul that can be lost.

If we lose that soul, nothing we attained or enjoyed on earth will matter in eternity.

Nothing.

Paul taught that the Lord’s supper is an opportunity for spiritual self-examination. If we discern the Lord’s body, he said, we do well.

But those who neglect this weekly appointment, or whose minds wander as the elements pass by, face a danger:

“For this reason many are weak and sickly among you,

and many sleep”

I Corinthians 11:30

Paul wasn’t discussing physical sickness.

John’s concern for those to whom he wrote must become our concern:

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health,

just as your soul prospers.”

3 John 2

Yes, our physical health matters. But the prosperity of our souls is paramount.

Is it well with your soul? (Tim Hall at: http://www.forthright.net)

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world,

and loses his own soul?

Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

Matthew 16:26

Posted by Mike Benson at July 17, 2009 11:45 AM

Be sure to give this Lord’s Day to the Lord!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“‘What do you mean, ‘If I can’?’ Jesus asked.

‘Anything is possible if a person believes.’”

~Mark 9:23 NLT ~

Maggie Lee Henson

Friday, July 17, 2009 8:55 AM, CDT

Friday Morning-
Great night last night and wonderful morning. ICP in the low 20’s. Obviously there is a huge mountain to climb but by your prayers we are baby-stepping.
I love reading your entries and truly appreciated the on which read,”We are in this to pray for Maggie Lee for the marathon and not the sprint.” That is exactly how we feel and words can’t express adequately how grateful we are.
Even in a coma, Maggie Lee is ravishing:) I can imagine that she is having some awesome dreams about marrying Joe Jonas and opening for Taylor Swift (btw-Taylor Swift made her pressure go up, so we had to turn that off)

Friday, July 17, 2009 10:12 PM, CDT

This has been a great day for Maggie Lee, with swelling going down and our experience of stepping off the unwanted rollercoast

er ride we have been on for these last several days. We will continue to see agressive treatment for a few days before backing off and moving to increased stimulation.

I am slowly learning to be patient in the wait, yet resting in the peace God is providing at this stage, especially as a result of your prayers. –John

Saturday, July 18, 2009 3:22 AM, CDT

Early Sat. a.m.-

Praise God for a stable night; ICP’s in the low 20s. Please keep up the amazing work of prayer and stand back and be amazed at what God will do. All glory to our gracious God and King.

A quote from Stacia Runnels’ Mom; “Doubt is a luxury that we simply cannot afford.” Amen and amen.

Riding the wave of your petitions,

jin

Saturday, July 18, 2009 4:59 AM, CDT

ML tolerated being moved all over creation for her well-needed change of bedding. With her toes and fingers are painted, she’s ready for prom, basically.

CP 21 at present, praise GOD.

Please pray for Michael in the pccu here. He’s 8 and dr.’s found a grapefruit-sized tumor in his abdomen.

Life is precious,
jin

Pray for the Simmons family. Mr. Bennie Gaylon is not doing well. Your prayers will be appreciated.

The FBC children are home from camp. Thank God for good days at camp and safe travel.

Baptist Press

July 17, 2009

WASHINGTON–Senate includes homosexuals in hate crimes protection. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30909

TENNESSEE–Q&A: Hate crimes’ impact on religious freedom. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30910

WASHINGTON–House approves funds for D.C. abortions. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30911

WASHINGTON–D.C. spending bill allows for marijuana. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30912

FLORIDA–FIRST-PERSON (Bobby Welch): Soldiers of the cross. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30913

WASHINGTON–LIFE DIGEST: Obama & pope discuss abortion. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30914

TENNESSEE–Oldest BP articles now available online. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30915

TENNESSEE–Woolley Award given to SBC’s archives. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30916

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): Blind leading the blind. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30917

Those of you who are very interested in sports may appreciate this site.

BPSports — Sports with a spiritual attitude! http://www.bpsports.net.

ATTRACTED BY THE LIGHT

The story is told of an old country doctor who went way out to the boondocks to deliver a baby. It was so far out, there was no electricity. When the doctor arrived, no one was home except for the laboring mother and her 5-year-old child.

The doctor instructed the child to hold a lantern high so he could see, while he helped the woman deliver the baby.

The child did so, the mother pushed and after a little while, the doctor lifted the newborn baby by the feet and spanked him on the bottom to get him to take his first breath.

No sooner had he done this when another baby popped out, Then another, and yet another. At this time, the little boy blew out the lamp.

The doctor yelled, “What did you do that for?”

“The light’s attracting them,” he replied.

Spiritually speaking, there’s a great deal of truth in that last statement. We experience the “new birth” (John 3:3) only after being attracted to the “light” — the light of God’s presence, the light of God’s Word. Like moths drawn to a light bulb burning in the night, those who search with an empty and unsatisfied heart will be drawn to God’s light. And praise be to God who offers us a way to leave our world of darkness and enter his “marvelous light”:

“But you are….His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” (I Peter 2:9-10).

Heavenly Father, I live in the midst of a dark world. Thank you for allowing your light to shine into my heart and into my life. Help me as I strive to live my life in such a way that I reflect your light so that others around me may see that light and be attracted to it. In the name of the one who is the “light of this world”, Amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thanking God for the rain!

Anna Lee

Friday

“At that time we were completely overwhelmed,

the burden was more than we could bear,

in fact we told ourselves that this was the end.

Yet we believe now that we had this experience

of coming to the end of our tether that we might learn to trust,

not in ourselves, but in God who can raise the dead.”

~2 Corinthians 1:8-9 PH~

Maggie Lee Henson

Friday, July 17, 2009 2:49 AM, CDT

Maggie Lee is having a good night/early morning. Her ICP(pressur

e on brain) is at a manageable number (17-23) and is so much better than last night. It seems that we may be on a new trend to stability.

Jinny is getting some much needed rest and will be back up sometime after CICU shift change (they are at 7-8 each morning and evening).

We both feel the lift of your prayers, enabling us to keep going through the rollercoaster rides of late. I can’t imagine how we would be without your constant prayers for Maggie Lee and for us.

A prayer I have enjoyed this “evening” is from the Compline of the Book of Common Prayer:

Be our light in the darkness, O Lord, and in your great mercy
defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the
love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Be present, O merciful God, and protect us through the hours
of this night, so that we who are wearied by the changes and
chances of this life may rest in your eternal changelessness;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Look down, O Lord, from your heavenly throne, and
illumine this night with your celestial brightness; that by
night as by day your people may glorify your holy Name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Visit this place, O Lord, and drive far from it all snare of the
enemy; let your holy angels dwell with us to preserve us in
peace; and let your blessing be upon us always; through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.

To read more posts go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maggieleehenson/journal

Mrs. Nadine Council is in Sage Rehabilitation Hospital (across for Our Lady of the Lake) which is located at 8000 Summa in Baton Rouge. Her phone number is 225-819-0703. Visiting hours are:

Weekdays – 4:00-8:00
Saturdays – 1:00 – 8:00
Sundays – 8:00 – 8:00

Mrs. Wanzie Williams asks you to pray for her family. Her brother-in-law, Roy Frazier, has learned of a reoccurance of his cancer. Your prayers will be greatly appreciated.

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

Prayer requests

“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

Make a joyful noise There’s a Christian who lives in a country where there aren’t many believers in Jesus. This Christian lives near a center for disabled children and orphans. In many countries, disabled children and orphans don’t get the same education as other kids. But this Christian is determined to help! After many long talks, the directors of the center gave the okay for this believer to come twice a week to teach English, music, and the local language. The believer and other group members cannot teach classes about Jesus, but they CAN share His love with the children. Some of the kids cannot hear or talk, but they love to join the music class. They may not sing the way we would expect, but they sing with whatever sound they can make. The Bible tells us to “make a joyful noise” and that’s just what they do! And the believers are learning some sign language to help “talk” with the kids. Please pray for the children and the staff at the center. Pray that they will want to know more about what the Christians believe. Pray that they will become Christians too.

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray that the people of Zambia do not get sick. KELSEY, age 6 (Sub-Saharan African peoples)

Pray that our church will continue to grow and evangelize boldly to the Japanese in Tokyo. Pray that the Japanese will be open and hungry for the gospel. ASHLEY, age 13 (Southeast Asian peoples)

Ask God to help my friends and the poor and the maids and my maid in Quito, Ecuador. ZACHARY, age 8 (American peoples)

I Want you to PRay about The People in india. Pray For indian PeoPle. MIKAYLA, age 6 (South Asian peoples)

Baptist Press

July 16, 2009

WASHINGTON–Sotomayor sees ‘seriousness’ of marriage debate. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30896

MISSOURI–Missouri ‘Peace Committee’ gets up to $100,000 from reserves. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30897

MISSISSIPPI–Bus crash victim struggles with brain injury. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30898

ILLINOIS–GCR task force to meet in August. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30899

TEXAS–CBF cuts budget amid shortfall. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30900

VIRGINIA–Africa missions pioneer John Mills dies. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30901

KENTUCKY–Baptist Press interns capture SBC flavor. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30902

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Page Brooks): What can we learn from Mark Driscoll? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30903

KneEmail

List

MY HUSBAND AND I dated all through high school and we have boxes and boxes of notes we used to write back and forth…

I loved getting these notes, but it seemed that after we go married these stopped. One of the things on my list is “I feel loved when you write me love notes.” This helped him to start writing me love notes again.

Things he or she does every day. There are things that we do for each other on a daily or weekly basis that become habit or duty. Make sure you identify thoe things your spouse does on a regular basis that make you feel loved… As you write your list, consider the issues of time and money. You should be sure to include things on your list that take practically no time at all to give (e.g., “I feel loved when you wink at me from across the room,” “…tell me that you love me,” “…rub my back or feet,” “…bring me a cup of coffee”) all the way up to things that take lots of time (e.g., “I feel loved when you fix me a four-course meal,” “…spend your day off planting flowers with me,” “…take me away for a long weekend”). Be sure to include things that cost nothing or very little (e.g., “I feel loved when you kiss me before you leave for work,” “…send me a card in the mail,” “…bring me a single rose”) all the way up to things that could be very expensive. Remember, it’s a wish list and you won’t necessarily get everything on the list.

It is very important that you be as specific as possible on this list. Remember the Christmas wish list? It would not have worked to write down “I want a Barbie” on the list. How likely would it have been that Mom would pick out exactly which Barbie I wanted? I had to write, “I want the Barbie with the long red dress and her hair pulled up on top of her head.” Now Mom could get just the right one. The same applies to your list. Give enough details and specifics that your spouse will be sure to get it right. Don’t say, “I feel loved when you bring me flowers.” You might get roses, daisies, wild flowers–dandelions. Be sure to say exactly that you want. If my list said “I feel loved when you bring me a candy bar from the grocery store,” and he comes home with an Almond Joy, he would definitely see my disappointed face. However, if he brought me a Butterfinger, I would be his forever. So don’t leave room for guess work. Tell him or her exactly what you would like.

Once each of you have finished your list, exchange them. Be sure to go over everything on the list to be sure you completely understand what each item entails. Then begin doing at least one thing a week off the list for your spouse. (Debbie L. Cherry, “Discovering the Treasure of Marriage,” 80-81).

“For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.” Ephesians 5:29

Posted by Mike Benson at July 16, 2009

Thank God for the rain!

Anna Lee

Thursday

“This means tremendous joy to you, I know,

even though you are temporarily harassed

by all kinds of trials and temptations.

This is no accident—it happens to prove your faith,

which is infinitely more valuable than gold.”

~1 Peter 1:6-7 PH~

Please add my 16 year old great-niece, Rachel McClain Budde to thepraylink and please keep her and our family in your prayers. Rachel is the granddaughter of Barbara Didone, neice of Jesse Didone, daughter of Jessica. Rachel has been having some problems and has been found to have a tumor pressing on the main artery going to her heart. They are not sure yet whether it is malignant or not and what it is actually attached to. She will be seeing a surgeon at Oschner Hospital in New Orleans today to see where things go from here.

Sue Minor Tucker

Maggie Lee Henson

Wednesday, July 15, 2009 2:11 PM, CDT

Well, she still has a temper, so that’s a blessing:) Even in her coma, Maggie Lee is exerting her will. The nurse suctioned her chest and she got really ticked off: blood pressure went through the roof.

SERIOU

SLY URGENT PRAYERS: BRAIN SWELLING TO SUBSIDE before any more damage is done. It is obvious that the brain is of greatest concern. The heart is strong, the lungs are resolving and her urine output is good.

The doctors have never been able to keep the ICP Rate where it needs to be, so PLEASE PRAY RIGHT NOW that God would get that swelling down.

We are really just believing in a miracle here and your notes of God doing the impossible are great.

Thursday, July 16, 2009 1:26 AM, CDT

PRESSURE!
Maggie Lee continues to have this very high ICP. Dr.’s have wanted it to be in the 20’s and it is still creeping up to the high 30’s.
They are treating it w medication BUT PLEASE PRAY that this swelling would subside. What goes up MUST come down, so please pray that it would. That is the gravest concern right now.
She has gone beyond the 72 hour mark which a brain injury typically peaks. We are desperate for her to get some relief.
All of our love,
jinny

Leland J. Durbin, Jr.
(May 27, 1946 – July 13, 2009)

He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, and friend in Christ who went home to be with the Lord at 9:10 p.m. on Monday, July 13, 2009 at his home in Amite, LA surrounded by his family. He was born May 27, 1946 in Hammond, LA. Age 63 years. He was a United States Army Veteran of the Vietnam War. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Jennifer Bigner Durbin, Amite; 2 daughters, Mellissa Durbin Leto and her husband David, Sr., Amite, Kimberly Durbin Curry and her husband, Stephen “Nim”, Hillsdale; a son, John Daniel Durbin and his wife, Andrea, Gulfport, MS; mother, Ethel Mae Durbin Bourgeois and her husband, Percy, Zachary; 2 sisters, Gloria Mobley and her husband, Andy, Calhoun, Susan Durbin, West Monroe; 11 grandchildren, Sybil, David, Jr. and his wife, Amanda, Caleb, Jacob and Cayla Leto, Lidia, Emily and Nim Curry, Isaac, Kate and Jane Durbin; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Leland J. Durbin, Sr. Visitation will be at Cornerstone Church, Amite, from 12 Noon on Saturday until religious services at 2 p. m. Saturday. Services conducted by Pastors Neil Barberio, Steve Farmer, and Mervin Strother. Interment Montpelier Cemetery, Montpelier, LA.

Baptist Press

July 15, 2009

WASHINGTON–Hate crimes vote slated in Senate. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30888

WASHINGTON–Sotomayor doesn’t budge on late-term abortion questions. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30889

OHIO–Asian family’s legacy stirs new missionaries. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30890

NEW MEXICO–Fuge camps: On the ‘move.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30891

NEW MEXICO–X-Fuge on Mission aids retirees. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30892

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (R. Albert Mohler Jr.): A ‘clean sweep’ for the Episcopal liberals. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30893

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (David Francis): What’s your Sunday School strategy? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30894

Truth

IN AMERICA, TRUTH in religion is considered an oxymoron…

There is no truth in religion, we are told. It’s all a matter of taste or opinion. You like chocolate, I like vanilla. You like Christianity, I like Islam. If Buddhism works for you, then it’s true for you. Besides, you ought not to judge me for my beliefs! (Norman L. Geisler and Frank Turek, “I Don’t Have Enough Faith to Be an Atheist,” 21).

“Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, the truth, and the life.

No one comes to the Father except through Me.”

John 14:6

Posted by Mike Benson at July 15, 2009

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

In His Time!

“But these things I plan won’t happen right away.

Slowly, steadily, surely,

the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled.

If it seems slow, do not despair,

for these things will surely come to pass.

Just be patient!

They will not be overdue a single day!”

~Habakkuk 2:3 LB~

Mary Lee Hinson

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/maggieleehenson/photos (more pictures)

1:49 A.M. Wednesday

With the coma-inducing medication removed, Maggie Lee is showing off with some incredible brain waves. We know that she is very, very, very much here with us.

I relieved John bedside a little after midnight and have been reading all of your precious words and scriptures to Maggie Lee since then. I know she can hear it and because I am SO LOUD, this entire END of the Critical Care Unit is, as well 🙂 God’s word is going out in this place thanks to you, the nurses and drs. hear your prayers for them as well.
We are all amazed at the outpouring of love from the body of Christ all over the world…many total strangers and cling to your encouragement. From prayer services at FBCS to Catholic Masses, our entire outh group is so covered in prayer.
Please pray:
-For her ICP to go down. We’re in the 30’s
-For her brain swelling to subside.
-For her lungs to stay inflated
-For her heart to continue to be strong
-For Lauren Murchison’s continued improvement. She has been moved to a private room in ccu
-For continued improvement for Sarah Smith
-For the parents of Brandon Ugarte as they mourne his loss.
-For God to glorify Himself in all of this wretched tragedy.

Words cannot express our appreciation but please KEEP ON!!!!!
jin

Please continue to pray for our church children at camp this week and for those for all the children and youth at other camps. Pray for those serving internationally too in world changers.

Three cottage prayer meeting in Kentwood tonight to pray for our country. They all begin at 6:30. Chose one from Mrs. Mary Young’s, Mr. and Mrs. Gaylon Cutrer, and the Alford’s cabin. For more information or directions call the church office (985-229-8111).

Leland J. Durbin, Jr.

(May 27, 1946 – July 13, 2009)

Born on May 27, 1946 died at his home in Amite, La. Monday night July 13, 2009 surrounded by His family. Arrangements are incomplete at McKneely Funeral Home of Amite & Kentwood, Inc., Amite, LA

Purpose

WHERE DID WE come from…?

Who are we? Why are we here? How should we live? Where are we going?

The answers to each of these questions depend on the existence of God. If God exists, then there’s ultimate meaning and purpose to your life. If there’s real purpose to your life, then there’s a real right and wrong way to live it. Choices you make now not only affect you here but will affect you in eternity. On the other hand, if there is no god, then your life ultimately means nothing. Since there is no enduring purpose to life, there’s right or wrong way to live it. And it doesn’t matter how you live or what you believe–your destiny is dust. (Norman L. Geisler and Frank Turek)

“Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter:

Fear God and keep Hhis commandments,

for this is the whole duty of man.”

Ecclesiates 12:13

Posted by Mike Benson at July 14, 2009

Tuesday

“When you pray,

do not use a lot of meaningless words,

as the pagans do,

who think that their gods will hear them because their prayers are long.

Do not be like them.

Your Father already knows what you need before you ask Him.”

~Matthew 6:7-8 TEV~

Micah Simpson

We took Micah to the doctor about a bump on his rib. The doctor told us to go get an x-ray done. I talked to the doctor this afternoon and he thinks it’s a outgrowth bone and wants us to go to Children’s Hospital in New Orleans just to make sure everything is alright.

Marty & Gretchen Simpson

Cottage prayer meetings for our country will be held Wednesday at 6:30 P.M. in the homes of Mrs. Mary Young, Mr. and Mrs. Galon Cutrer, and our cabin. Feel free to choose one and participate.

There will be a time of food, fellowship and devotional Thursday at the cabin at 6:30. You are invited to join us.

Continue to pray for our children as they are at camp this week and all the other children and youth at camps this week. Also, pray for those participating in VBS this week.

KneEmail

Unchanging

morals.jpgRELATIVISTS OFTEN CONFUSE the changing behavioral situation with the unchanging moral duty…

For example, when discussing a moral topic like premarital sex or cohabitation, you often hear people in support of it say something like, “Get with it, this is the twenty-first century!” as if current behaviors dictate what’s right and wrong. To illustrate the absurdity of the relativist’s reasoning, you need only to turn the discussion to a more serious moral issue like murder, which also occurs much more frequently in America today that it did fifty years ago. How many relativists would speak in support of murder by asking us to “Get with it, this is the twenty-first century!”? That’s where their reasoning takes them when they confuse what people do with what they ought to do. (Norman L. Geisler, Frank Turek)

KneEmail: “And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32

Bible reading for 07.13.09: Acts 18; Job 7-9

Be a missionary. Forward KneEmail to a friend, loved one, or co-worker today.

To SUBSCRIBE or find archives, go to: http://www.forthright.net/kneemail/

Posted by Mike Benson at July 13, 2009

Unchanging

RELATIVISTS OFTEN CONFUSE the changing behavioral situation with the unchanging moral duty…

“And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.”

John 8:32

Posted by Mike Benson at July 13, 2009

Thanks for praying today. Your prayers mean so much to so many!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“All Scripture is inspired by God

and is useful to teach us what is true

and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives.

It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right.”

~2 Timothy 3:16 NLT~

R.S.V.P.

As the story goes, some prominent scientists were invited to a party, and this is how they replied (warning! only avid science students will understand every reference):

* Ampere was worried he wasn’t current.

* Audobon said he’d have to wing it.

* Boyle said he was under too much pressure.

* Darwin waited to see what evolved.

* Descartes said he’d think about it.

* Dr Jekyll declined — he hadn’t been feeling himself lately.

* Edison thought it would be illuminating.

* Einstein thought it would be relatively easy to attend.

* Gauss was asked to attend because of his magnetic personality.

* Hertz said in the future he planned to attend with greater frequency.

* Morse’s reply: “I’ll be there on the dot. Can’t stop now, must dash.”

* Newton planned to drop in.

* Ohm resisted the idea.

* Pavlov was drooling at the thought.

* Pierre and Marie Curie were radiating enthusiasm.

* Volta was electrified, and Archimedes buoyant at the thought.

* Watt reckoned it would be a good way to let off steam.

* Wilbur Wright accepted, provided he and Orville could get a flight.

I think it’s significant that Jesus often compared his kingdom to a feast or a banquet. Being a part of God’s kingdom is like going to a party. It’s a festive occasion, a time of fellowship, a time of joy. I think Jesus wanted us to understand that the greatest joys this life has to offer are found in his kingdom.

“The kingdom of heaven is like a certain king who arranged a marriage for his son, and sent out his servants to call those who were invited to the wedding…and they were not willing to come. Again, he sent out other serv ants, saying, ‘Tell those who are invited, “See, I have prepared my dinner; my oxen and fatted cattle are killed, and all things are ready. Come to the wedding.”‘ But they made light of it and went their ways, one to his farm, another to his business.” (Matthew 22:2-5).

The king sent out his servants to tell everyone to come join the party, but those who had been invited wouldn’t come. So he tried again, sending out his messengers to say, “Look, it’s going to be a great party — lots of food and fun!” But they said, “We’ve got other things to do. Sorry, can’t make it. We’d love to, but we’re just too busy. You know how it is.”

And you know how the king felt, don’t you? We’ve all had that happen to us at some time or another. You work like a dog getting ready for something — a party, a get-together in your home. You spend hours and hours getting everything ready. You work hard and you’re excited about what you’ve got planned.

The big day comes. You planned for twenty and three show up. You planned for thirty and you get eight. You know how it feels. You want to cry. It makes you angry and frustrated and depressed. You know how the king in this parable felt. And if you know how the king in this parable felt, then in some small way, you know how God feels whenever one of us rejects his invitation to be a part of the kingdom that he has prepared for us.

The banquet has been prepared. You have received an invitation from God. He is waiting for an R.S.V.P. Have you made your plans to attend?

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a great Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee