Family – Page 103 – The Prayer Link

Monday Afternoon

[The boy’s father said,]

“… If you can do anything, do it.

Have a heart and help us!”

Jesus said, “If?

There are no ‘ifs’ among believers.

Anything can happen.”

No sooner were the words out of his mouth

than the father cried,

“Then I believe. Help me with my doubts!”

Mark 9:22-24 (MSG)

David Gullota update from Angela Shockley:

Thought you would like to know that David came home Fri. He is staying with his grandparents in Tylertown, MS. His mother would like to thank everyone for their prayers and concerns. She ask that we continue to pray for him as he recovers

You’ll see why I chose this verse when you read the updates on Don Denton (Friday, Saturday, Sunday, & Monday).

Don is not coming home this weekend. He is too sick. His body is so compromised. The doctors are treating this as a separate illness. His right arm is swollen, they did an Ultra sound and found the beginnings of a blood clot. They are taking the necessary steps to treat it.

He is unable to eat at this point. So looks like he will be there for several days. We will know more by Monday.

Ugh….Ugh…Ok, that is just where I am at. This is hard and for Josh, well he just wants to be with his dad. So today I brought our portable dvd player to hospital and Joshua was perfectly content sitting there by his dad.

I won’t complain, it won’t do any good. And I have to hold onto the fact that he is not relapsing. I am most thankful for that. Josh and I just really miss him.

The days seem so long. I need to keep focused on how blessed we are. Because we are. Don could be allot worse and that I am so thankful for that he is not.

Thank you…thank you for your love and care and support of us.

Diane

Well Don is looking better this morning. He still has a high level of nausea, dizziness and headache.

He has a superficial blood clot, meaning not a deep thrombois. He is on clear fluids and not able to eat that at this point.

Hopefully we will see improvement today and tomorrow. I am so grateful to Mary Ann Smashey for staying with Joshua so I could spend the night at the hospital last night.

Bless you

Diane

Blessings

I now have this virus that Don has. What a life… So I am home sick, trying to take care of Josh and Don is at the hospital. What a story. Don’s IV dislodged in his left arm and now his left arm is swollen. They had to put the IV back in the right arm with the superfical blood clot.

Can you tell, I am not having a good day today. I am pretty tired myself. Hopefully my symptoms will get better. I was suppose to take Joshua to his best buddy’s birthday party today. I don’t think I am going to make it.

Sorry for the complaining. It is just a bad day. Pray that the nursese seeing Don now will be on top of this issues. I have had to be the one to bring things to their attention. I am beginning to be concerned over their ability to take care of him.

Ok, so there you have it. Life in the Denton house is pretty discouraged. Please pray for all of us, we really, really need it.

Bless you our family and friends

Diane

I am feeling somewhat better. I have not seen Don since Saturday morning. I have spoken to him. He still has headache pain, but he is starting to eat. He still has swelling in both arms.

I have spoken to the nurse. She does not seem concerned about this. The night nurse was not aware of the superficial blood clot in his right arm.

I will be talking with his doctor sometime this morning. He is to call me. I am not well enough to go up to the hospital as of yet and of course I don’t want to spread my germs to Don.

The good news is that Don is able to keep his food down. He sounds somewhat better too.

It hurts my heart that Josh and I can’t be there to show support to him.

I am thankful that he has an excellent doctor in Dr. Trotman. He is present and passionate about Don’s case.

Pray that Don’s headache pain resolves itself. Pray that he will be able to get up and move around some today. If I am feeling well enough and my doctor says it is OK, I want to go see him this evening.

Joshua got to go to his friends Elijah’s birthday party yesterday and I could tell that he had the best time. We have such good friends that care so much about him. I am so grateful.

This has been a very long journey, going on 5 months now. Thank you to those of you who are sticking with us through this roller coaster ride. Thank you for your continued love, care and support of us. I could have never imagined our life being turned upside down like this.

I bought a causal necklace to support the childrens network at Cox South Hospital. It is a simple round copper piece with the word” believe” in the center. Joshua asked me….mom what does it say. And I told him, “Believe” I wear it because I believe in you, I believe in daddy, I believe in our family and I believe that we are going to make it through this and I believe in God that he is with us through all of this even when it is hard.

Joshua then said to me, “Mommy wear it on the outside of your shirt, so everyone can see that you believe in us”.

Pray for us. Thank you so much for walking with us and being with us, we need you all.

love,

Diane

Linda Greenhill Simms
(July 27, 1940 – February 7, 2009)

Linda Greenhill Simms went to meet the Lord on February 7th peacefully at home in her sleep. A resident of Amite, LA, Linda was born in Clarksville Tn. She moved to Amite when her mother married Rich Hellmers, pharmacist and owner of People’s Cash Pharmacy. She was a retired nurse having graduated in 1962 from Baylor University in Texas. Linda spent many years working for long term care organizations such as Hospice. Linda blessed many lives during her career and believed it was her calling to care for people in need and spent much of her career working with individuals who were terminally ill.

Linda was an active member of the First Baptist Church of Amite. She touched many lives by her compassion and acts of selflessness. She never knew a stranger and was a constant witness for Christ in both her speech and actions. She will be missed by her neighbors, friends, and family, especially her four children.

She is preceded in death by her mother, Jane Hellmers, her step-father, Rich Hellmers and her father, James Edward Greenhill of Clarksville, Tn. She is survived by one sister, Bertie Jane Greenhill Kilpatrick and husband John, her four children; Chuck Simms and wife, Vicki, Will Simms and wife Elizabeth all of Gatlinburg, Tn., Meg Sharkey and husband Michael of Amite, La., and Barry Simms and wife Sue of Bristol, Tn. and her grandchildren, Chaz Simms V, Gary Richoux, Tilon Simms, Noah Simms, Mandy Sharkey, Jacob Sharkey, and Stella Simms.

Pallbearers will be Buck Cefalu, Tom Ed Brumfield, Richard Kilpatrick, Gradon Clemons, David Vining, and Jerry Lewis. Honorary pallbearers are Leroy Wilkinson, Shelby Reid and Delos Jones.

Visitation will be from 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Monday, February 9th at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite and from 8 am until Religious Services at 9:30 am on Tuesday, February 10th . Service conducted by Rev. Dennis Walker. Interment will follow in the Amite Cemetery, Amite.

Donations may be made to First Baptist Church of Amite.

Obituaries Dorothy Bennett Husser
(April 14, 1924 – February 8, 2009)

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Dorothy Bennett Husser

Died at 2:34AM on Sunday, February 8, 2009 at Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center, Independence, LA. She was a native of Tangipahoa Parish, LA. Age 84 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday and from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10:30AM Tuesday. Services conducted by Bro. Dale Ziebarth. Interment St. Dominic Cemetery, Husser, LA. Survived by 5 children, Jimmie Husser and his wife, Shirley, Independence, Wayne Husser, Independence, Kenny Husser and his wife, Micaleen, Independence, Pat Shockley and her husband, Thomas, Loranger, and Sharon Kay Lee and her husband, Sidney, Independence, 1 sister, Doris “Johnnie” Stanfield, Independence, 6 grandchildren, Charla Yarbrough, Marcie Chadwick, Charity Gay, Jessica Kyzar, Brittany Shockley, and Riggin Lee, 3 great-grandchildren, Cameron and Corey Yarbrough and Leah Chadwick. Preceded in death by 1st husband, Wilson Husser, 2nd husband, Ervin Husser, and parents, Harry and Doe Bennett.

Wanda Brunet Harden
(May 12, 1961 – February 7, 2009)

Wanda Brunet “Sweetie” Harden a devoted wife, mom, and Christian to all was born May 12, 1961 and passed at 7:13AM, Saturday, February 7, 2009 at the North Oaks Medical Center, Hammond. She was 47, a native of New Orleans and a resident of Amite. Wanda is survived by her husband, James B. “Jim” Harden, Amite; 3 daughters, Missy Brunet Bennett, Amite, Mindy Brunet Fitch, and husband Dustin, Amite, & Melinda Brunet Bennett, Amite; Mommie, Velma Brunet Noel, Amite; 2 sisters, Connie B. Lee and husband, Norman, Jr., Larose, Pamela B. Rousse, and husband Carl A., Amite; 3 brothers, Alfred Brunet, and wife, Barbara, Larose, Joey Brunet, and wife, Kim, Amite, and Mark Brunet, Amite. 5 grandchildren and numerous extended family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her father, Herman Peter Brunet, Sr. and a brother, Herman Peter Brunet, Jr.

Visitation will be held at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Monday, February 9, 2009 after 10:00AM until Religious Services at the funeral home Chapel at 2:00PM with Bro. James Downing officiating. Interment in the Colonial Mausoleum, Independence.

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

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

KneEmail

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

Mike Benson, Editor

BENJAMIN FRANKLIN IS accredited with saying that there is nothing in this life that is certain except death and taxes…

Funny, is it not, how neither seems to come at an opportune time? Death is something that we never come to grips with. We deny that it happens. We put it off until another day. We try to run ahead of it to ensure that it never catches up. Some even try to buy it off but they never succeed for death comes to us all.

However, this isn’t much comfort when our loved ones pass on. We have all lost someone near and ear to us. A grandparent. An uncle or aunt. A parent. A sibling. A close friend in the prime of life. And when these deaths occur in trivial circumstances, the pain is almost suffocating. A friend commits suicide. Another is taken in an automobile accident. A grandparent or parent who develops cancer is given only two weeks to live. An uncle is murdered.

It happens.

It shouldn’t.

But it does.

The pain that comes from death is worse than anything else that humanity can imagine or create. You see, death represents finality. That’s it. It’s the end of the line. They are gone. Your loved one is now only a memory. At least that is true for those who never know Christ. But for the ones who do, death is only a brief milestone between earth and eternity. (Michael Whitworth)

“…It is appointed for men to die once and after this comes judgment” (Hebrews 9:27).

David and I are thankful we were able to with family for the baptism our our grandson, Braden Alford (6). What a joy!

I hope you have have a great day! Please feel free to call or email your praises, requests. and updates you wish me to share.

Anna Lee

Saturday

Good morning. Thank-you for reading and praying today. May you be blessed as you do so.

Have a wonderful weekend.

Anna Lee

LET THE LIGHT SHINE

I heard about a couple who received a set of two horrible bedside table lamps as a wedding present from a distant aunt. Since the lamps were so ugly, this couple didn’t want to actually use them, so they put them in storage and bought a nicer set themselves. That worked for a while, but a few years later, this particular relative came to a family celebration. Knowing she would be there, the couple quickly set up the aunt’s lamps on the tables and hid their usual ones under the bed.

When time came to show the aunt around the house, the wife said, “Come and see how nice your lamps look in our bedroom.”

She turned on the switch on the wall — and suddenly an intense luminosity emerged from under the bed…..

Oops! How embarrassing! I am reminded of the following statement made by Jesus:

“[Jesus] said to them, ‘Is a lamp brought to be put under a basket or under a bed? Is it not to be set on a lampstand? For there is nothing hidden which will not be revealed, nor has anything been kept secret but that it should come to light.’ ” (Mark 4:21-22).

Jesus’ point here is not quite the same as it is in the more familiar passage in Matthew 5:16 (“Let your light so shine before men…”). Here in Mark, Jesus has apparently just begun to speak in parables. To the apostles, it may have seemed that Jesus was trying to hide the truth from people by speaking with such obscurity. But Jesus points out that wouldn’t make much sense; it would be like lighting a lamp (to bring light) and then placing it under a bed (to hide the light). His reason for using parables wasn’t to hide God’s truth, but to set it on a lampstand so that it could give forth as much light as possible.

Father, we thank you for sending One who not only came to show us the light, but who is Himself “the light of the world”. May our lives and conversation be such that we will never be embarrassed by an attempt to hide that light under our beds. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Nothing in all creation

is hidden from God’s sight.

Everything is uncovered and laid bare

before the eyes of him

to whom we must give account.

Hebrews 4:13 (NIV)

Update on Don Denton:

It is a privilege and we feel honored that you all would take time today to lift us up in prayer today.

I woke this morning with a peaceful and thankful spirit. Don continues to be moved by the love of family and friends. One of his precious students wrote him and email today that lifted his spirits.

I have to confess to you all that I have never been strong through this long illness. I have been weak and most days are hard. So I too struggle. Yet, I know what is true. I know even when my feelings are saying one thing that my heart believes in what is true. And the big picture here is this – Don is alive and with us. God has heard our cries, our prayers. We have so much to be thankful for and that is my prayer.

We had doctor appointment yesterday and that went well. This doctor wants Don to see a specialist in Kansas City. This doctor specializes in area of dizziness. And Don goes to Cox South Tuesday for a lumbar puncture. Don will be getting new glasses and I feel that will help as well.

Bless you our family and friends

Diane

This morning at 7 A.M. FBC, Kentwood will host a superbowl prayer breakfast. Everyone is invited to attend.

Miss Virgie Bridges was returning home from work as a nurse when she found my grandpa, G.R. Smith, Sr., at the gate to what was then his farm. It is now our cabin. After Katrina, David was delivering supplies all around Kentwood. He “found” Miss Virgie. After a couple of meetings and lots of question about who he was and where he lived, she revealed she found Grandpa G.R. Needless to say, she became someone special to us. It was a long overdue friendship and a special connection we were glad to finally make.

Miss Virgie passed away Thursday night. Her wake will be at Pine Ridge Methodist Church from 10:00 to the funeral service at 1 P.M.

Reuel Townsend Adams, Jr.
(September 13, 1927 – January 29, 2009)

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U.S. Veteran REUEL TOWNSEND ADAMS, JR., AGE 81

And a resident of Mt. Hermon died at 5 PM Thursday, January 29, 2009 at East Jefferson General Hospital. He was a member of Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, vice president of Ruritan Club, former member of Franklinton Lion’s Club, secretary/treasurer of Mt. Hermon Volunteer Fire Department, active member of the Camellia Society and AHS. He was a WWII veteran of U.S. Navy.

Survived by: Wife: Bobbie Wilkes Adams of Mt. Hermon, 4 Daughters and sons in law: Suzanne Seale of Florence, MS, Beverly and Mike Taylor, Cheryl McElveen all of Mt. Hermon, Kim and Bret Allain of Jeanerette, 1 Son and a daughter in law: Craig and Lisa McElveen of Baton Rouge, 12 Grandchildren: Laurie Schexnider, Michael and Melissa Walker, Shea Taylor, Amber McElveen, Mac McElveen, Quin, Emma, and Robert Allain, Ashley McKenzie, Erin and Ryan Seale, 4 Step grandchildren: Tia, Crystal and Cole Taylor, Tyler Simmons, 3 Great grandchildren: Jace Schexnider, Hayden McElveen, James McKenzie, 2 Brothers and sisters in law: Robert and Joan Adams of Jacksonville, FL, John and Sherry Adams of St. Augustine, FL, He was preceded in death by a son Robert Townsend Adams, his parents Reuel T., Sr. and Pearl Rogers Adams and a brother Ben Adams.

Visitation will be at Crain Funeral Home from 5 PM until 9 PM Friday, January 30, 2009 and after 8 AM Saturday, January 31, 2009. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday in the funeral home chapel with Dr. Joe Baugh and Rev. Dale Parker officiating. Burial will follow in the Ellis Cemetery.

Friday Afternoon

Jim Miller had a work accident yesterday. He is hospitalized in McComb. Pray for him as he heals.

http://sports.espn.go.com/espnmag/story?section=magazine&id=3789373

Jason had a link to this article on his website. It is soooooo inspiring. I hope we can all get some ideas from this and apply them in our little worlds. Let’s pray we will use our opportunities to make a difference.

(Jason, I’m glad you shared this. It was a great article.)

Sunday Evening

Big 10 from teamromany January 2009

1. On January 13 teamromany members Boyd, Joe, Gayle, and Daniel will meet with International World Changers volunteers in Prague. After a few days of planning and training, the volunteers will travel with the teamromany members to their fields of service. They will spend several days making plans together for the large groups of students who will serve with teamromany this summer through International World Changers. Pray for the leaders as they make decisions about the ministry opportunities this summer.

2. Bob and Gayle will spend most of the month of February in Prague for team leader training. Pray for them as they complete assignments this month. Pray that the training will help better prepare them for their role in ministry.

3. In December we asked you to pray for Daniel as he directed a live nativity. Twenty youth participated and were able to share the gospel. Thank God for the witness of these youth and pray for those who heard the message of the Savior.

4. Teenagers from 4 villages will participate in a winter retreat this month. Pray for Daniel as he leads this event.

6. Pray for Cornel Tuns as he returns to Romania to teach in the Romany Bible Institute.

7. Pray for Romany believers to grow in their faith, to have strong testimonies in their communities and to be bold to share Christ with their friends and family.

8. Pray for Boyd, Jennie, and their children as they face some transitions this year. As the IMB is restructuring, Boyd was asked to take on the responsibility of leading Romany ministry throughout Europe. This role will begin in March. The Hatchel family will be moving to Prague in the summer.

9. Pray for volunteer Lisa Kail as she makes plans for the Romany Summer Youth Camp in Romania.

10. Pray for those who are considering serving with teamromany as summer missionaries.

Thank you for praying with us and for us.

teamromany

Daniel Byrd – Romania

Boyd and Jennie Hatchel – Czech Republic

Bob and Gayle Hill – Romania

Joe and Julie Silby – Czech Republic

teamromany.com

Kitty Bennett Lapreyrolerie continues to need our prayers. Her condition doesn’t seem to be improving. New problems are arising. Your prayers will be greatly appreciated.

Mrs. Faye Price in now in a room at North Oaks. She no longer has a vent. Plans are being made for a future transfer to rehabilitation. Thanks for your prayers for her, the medical staff, and the family. Keep on praying.

Aubrey Perry, brother of Karen Miller, will have surgery tomorrow. Karen said Aubrey needs a miracle. Karen and her family will appreciate your prayers for Aubrey and his entire family.

Mrs. Alice Faye Lee requested prayer for her nephew’s wife. Amy Hood Conti is undergoing tests in Baton Rouge for a heart issue.

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell is home, but still having some continuing health issues. Pray for her as she sees a different doctor this week.

Jared Prescott and David Gullota are both still recovering from their accident. Please continue to pray for them.

Mr. Charley Kuss seems to be much better. The doctors have given him a good report. He is appreciative of visitors.

Monday

“Whatever happens,

dear brothers and sisters,

may the Lord give you joy …”

Philippians 3:1 (NLT)

(b. Viewmont, Albermarle County, Va., Dec. 12, 1840;
d. Kobe, Japan, Dec. 24, 1912). Missionary in Tengchow
and Pingtu, China, for nearly 40 years; instrumental in
instigating first Christmas offering, 1888. She was
educated at Female Seminary at Botetourt Springs (later
known as Hollins) and at Albermarle Female Institute,
Charlottesville. She was converted in the spring of 1859
in a meeting by John Albert Broadus, then pastor at
Charlottesville. She taught at Danville, Ky., and Cartersville,
Ga. She volunteered for missionary service in Feb., 1873,
in response to a sermon on the text, “Lift up your eyes, and
look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest,”
and she was appointed to China, July 7, 1873, by the Foreign
Mission Board, Southern Baptist Convention. In 1888 she
wrote to the Baptist women of the South, pleading for
reinforcements. The first Christmas offering in 1888 provided
three additional missionaries. She spent 14 years in China
before taking her first regular furlough. Toward the end of
her days, she suffered with her Chinese people in the terrible
famine. She gave all she had. In the time of deepest trials
she wrote, “I hope no missionary will be as lonely as I have
been.” Literally starving, she grew steadily weaker. Before
Christmas, 1912, Cynthia Miller, faithful nurse, started back
to America with Lottie Moon; death came to the frail missionary,
Christmas Eve, while the ship was at harbor in Kobe, Japan.
The present Christmas offering for foreign missions,
sponsored by the W.M.U., is named for Lottie Moon.
http://www.sbhla.org/bio_moon.htm

Yesterday, I had opportunities to learn from several
missionaries:
John Schaffner, the BCM director at SLU and pastor
of Roseland Baptist Church, told about returning a

few days ago from a two week mission trip to China.

He learned many lessons there. One was that the loss

of his camera, exta money, and GPS system caused

him to lose sleep, but the had not lost enough sleep

over the lostness of people.
The Sloan family of King’s Mountain, North Carolina

told us of three recent trips to Romania. They

ministered to the Roma and chose that people group

because of Jennie. Bro. Chip baptized Jennie!
Holly K. spoke last night of her future work in West

Africa where she will teach four MK’s. She leaves in

one week for a two year commitment as a journeyman.

Pray for Bro. John as he leads college students and chuch

members to be more aware of missions.

Pray for the Sloan family as they have developed a love for

the Roma and a desire to minister to their lostmness.

Pray for Holly to be a witness as she lives daily among people

who do not know the Lord and an example for those who are

new Christians.
I thank God for three special opportunities in one day.

I pray I will use what I learned to further His kingdom.

I pray you will become more mission-minded. God has a

plan for each of us!
Anna Lee

Tuesday

You will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6 (NLT)

I talked with Sherry Rosamond. She said her son is glad to be home from the hospital. Pray for him as he continues medication to complete his recovery. Pray Dustin will be able to follow the doctor’s orders for his recovery.

Debbie Miller had a good medical report when she went for a check-up. She will see a heart doctor for the next check-up in six months. Thank God for Debbie’s return to good health.

Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell continues to need our prayers. She still is having the same problem that has plagued her for months. As always, she would be most appreciative of your prayers.

You may have noticed I haven’t posted an emails from Frann Smith Clark lately. When Frann doesn’t email, that means she is not feeling her best. Please pray for Frann, Riley, and their family members who are so attentive to their needs.

Many of you like to keep up with the Hatchels. Commission stories has posted some information on the Roma and a story about the Hatchels. You can find this at http://www.commissionstories.com/?p=51.

I especially enjoyed reading some of the Baptist Press articles that were released yesterday. I hope you will take time to read some too. I especially enjoyed the articles about Mike Hulkabee, graduations at NOBTS and SWBTS, as well as the story of the third generation at New Orleans. Many of you may know one of the Charlie Ray familes. I marked my favorites (***).
December 22, 2008

WASHINGTON–Gay activists demand Obama concessions for Warren pick. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29553

FLORIDA–Huckabee: Christians should be firm, not angry about Wash. atheist flap. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29554

*** FLORIDA–Huckabee pauses during book tour to preach. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29555

MINNESOTA–Minn.-Wis. Baptists face financial challenges. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29556

*** LOUISIANA–‘We own the night,’ Kelley tells graduates. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29557

CALIFORNIA–5 married couples among GGBTS grads. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29558

*** LOUISIANA–3rd generation earns doctorate at NOBTS. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29559

KENTUCKY–Preach with authority, Mohler tells grads. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29560

*** TEXAS–Southwestern wraps up centennial celebration. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29561

NORTH CAROLINA–Merritt challenges Southeastern graduates. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29562

NORTH CAROLINA–FIRST-PERSON (Paul Brewster): A life-changing trip. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29563

WASHINGTON–Conservative leader Weyrich dies. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29564

Why Jesus is Better Than Santa Claus?

JesusSantaSanta lives at the North Pole…
JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh…
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year…
JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies…
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited…
JESUS stands at your door and knocks, and then enters your heart when invited.

You have to wait in line to see Santa…
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap…
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn’t know your name, all he can say is “Hi little boy or girl, what’s your name?”…
JESUS knew our name before we were born. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly…
JESUS has a heart full of love

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO…
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says “You better not cry”…
JESUS says “Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.”

Santa’s little helpers make toys…
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but…
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree…
JESUS became our gift and died on a tree…the cross.

We need to put Christ back in CHRISTmas, Jesus is still the reason for the season.

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

(http://retirementwithapurpose.com/christmas/jesusbetterthansanta.html)

I hope you know Jesus this Christmas! If so, please share His message. If not, find someone who can introduce you to Jesus. He can give your life a purpose greater than you can imagine!

Merry CHRISTmas!
Anna Lee

Sunday

Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Romans 5:1 (NLT)

Update on Dustin Rosamond: Dustin is now home and doing better, has to take real good care of himself and take it easy for a while. We want to thank all of you for all of your prayers and ask you to continue to pray for his full recovery. Thank you again for praying.

Faye Faller is home from the hospital.

According to Les, Faye Price is about the same. Keep praying for everyone involved.

Ways to Keep Christ in Christmas

By Mary Fairchild, About.com
12 Days Of ChristmasEnter the 12 Days of Christmas Competitions for a Chance to Winwww.raisingkids.co.uk

Keeping Christ in Christmas:

The number one way to keep Jesus Christ in your Christmas celebrations is to have him present in your daily life. If you’re not sure what it means to become a believer in Christ, check out this article on “How to Become a Christian.” If you’ve already accepted Jesus as your Savior and made him the center of your life, keeping Christ in Christmas is more about the way you live your life than the things you say—such as “Merry Christmas” versus “Happy Holidays.”

Keeping Christ in Christmas means daily revealing the character, love and spirit of Christ that dwells in you, by allowing these traits to shine through your actions. Here are simple ways to keep Christ the central focus of your life this Christmas season.
1) Give God one very special gift just from you to him:
Let this gift be something personal that no one else needs to know about, and let it be a sacrifice. David said in 2 Samuel 24 that he would not offer a sacrifice to God that cost him nothing.

Maybe your gift to God will be to forgive someone you’ve needed to forgive for a long time. You may discover that you’ve given a gift back to yourself.

Corrie Ten Boom, a Christian who survived extreme brutality in a German concentration camp after rescuing many Jews from certain death during the Nazi Holocaust, was later able to say, “Forgiveness is to set a prisoner free, and to realize the prisoner was you.”

Perhaps your gift will be to commit to spending time with God daily. Or maybe there is something God has asked you to give up, like last New Year’s resolution. Make this your most important gift of the season.
2) Set aside a special time to read the Christmas story in Luke 1:5-56 through 2:1-20:
Consider reading this account with your family and discussing it together.
• The Christmas Story
• More Christmas Bible Verses
3) Set up a Nativity scene in your home:
If you don’t have a Nativity, here are ideas to help you make your own Nativity scene:
• Nativity Related Crafts
4) Plan a project of good will this Christmas:
A few years ago we “adopted” a single mom. My friend was barely making ends meet and didn’t have money to buy gifts for her small child. Together with my husband’s family we bought gifts for both of them and replaced her broken down washing machine the week of Christmas. Do you have an elderly neighbor in need of home repairs or yard work? Find someone with a genuine need, involve your whole family and see how happy you can make someone this Christmas.
• Top Christmas Charity Projects
5) Take a group Christmas caroling in a nursing home or a children’s hospital:
One year the staff at the office where I worked decided to incorporate Christmas caroling at a nearby nursing home into our yearly staff Christmas party plans. We all met first at the nursing home and toured the facility while singing Christmas carols. Afterwards, we headed back to our party with our hearts full of tenderness. It was the best staff Christmas party we’d ever had.
6) Give a surprise gift of service to each member of your family:
Jesus taught us to serve by washing the disciples feet. He also taught us that it is “more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:35 (NIV) The idea of giving an unexpected gift of service to members of your family is to demonstrate Christ-like love and service. You might consider giving a back rub to your spouse, running an errand for your brother, or cleaning out a closet for your mother. Make it personal and meaningful and watch the blessings multiply.
7) Set aside a time of family devotions on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning:
Before opening the gifts, take a few minutes to gather together as a family in prayer and devotions. Read a few Bible verses and discuss as a family the true meaning of Christmas.
• Christmas Bible Verses
• Christmas Prayers and Poems
• The Christmas Story
• Christmas Devotionals
8) Attend a Christmas church service together with your family:
If you are alone this Christmas or don’t have family living near you, invite a friend or a neighbor to join you.
9) Send Christmas cards that convey a spiritual message:
This is an easy way to share your faith at Christmastime. If you’ve already bought the reindeer cards—no problem! Just write a Bible verse and include a personal message with each card.
• Select Christmas Bible Verses
10) Write a Christmas letter to a missionary:
This idea is dear to my heart because I spent four years on the mission field. Receiving a letter always felt like opening a priceless gift on Christmas morning, no matter what day it was. Many missionaries are unable to travel home for the holidays, so it can be a very lonely time for them. Write a special Christmas letter to a missionary of your choice, thanking them for giving their life in service to the Lord. Trust me—it will mean more than you can imagine!

You may see some familar faces at http://www.commissionstories.com/?p=51.

Have a great day. Try to do some of the things listed on today’s devotional. You’ll be blessed.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

Big 10 from teamromany December 2008

1. Please pray for Daniel Byrd as he leads 6-week Bible study courses and shows portions of the Jesus film each week. Pray that those who attend will be responsive to the message of the Gospel. Thank God for volunteer Gene Leis. Legally blind, this volunteer is serving alongside Daniel Byrd for three months. Pray for him as he shares his testimony through word and song in Romany villages.

2. Pray for Bob and Gayle Hill as they are on vacation in the United States this month. Pray that their time with family and friends refreshes them to return to ministry. Pray that as they share with others about their ministry that others will become encouraged to pray for the Roma.

3. Romany youth will be presenting a live nativity in the villages of Cămărașu and Mociu, Romania. Pray that those who attend will recognize the significance of Jesus’ birth.

9. This week a team of 18 Lifeway Centrifuge staff will arrive in Brno, Czech Republic to work with Boyd and Jennie Hatchel and Joe and Julie Silbly. Using sports as an outreach tool, these volunteers will share the Gospel with Romany youth. Pray that Romany youth will participate and that be receptive to the message of Hope the volunteers will share.

10. Pray for Jennie Hatchel as she shares the Christmas story in eighth and ninth grade classrooms this month. Pray that the students who hear the true story of Christmas will want to know more about Jesus.

Monday Afternoon

The following is the current prayer request for Freda. Monday, December 8, at 12 noon, EST, she is to have a series of spinal blocks to try and determine the source of the pain or at least to narrow down the area of interest. For this test and the one on December 10 she has had to be off blood thinner for one week and without food and liquid since midnight the night before. After the spinal block she has a MRI or something similar (3 PM, EST) where they will try to look at the spinal column from all directions. The front of the spine is of particular interest. Then she is to return December 10 with the results of these procedures and they have another procedure of some kind scheduled that I suppose should result in a conclusion as to what the problem is that causes so much pain. I will let you know more about that procedure and the time along with how thing go Monday as soon as I know.

Freda and I appreciate your prayers,

Floyd

Remember Freda is in the US at John Hopkins Hospital while Floyd is in Bucharest.

Melinda

Please pray for Chris, Jill and Christian W. serving in Russia.
Today Chris received a 3 day notice to leave Russia. They have been
struggling with visa issues for some time now and were recently told
they would soon have to leave Russia. Pray mercy will be shown by the
Russian government and that more time will be given to deal with this
issue. Pray for clear direction from the Lord.

Central Easter Europe Prayer Team

In Russia the missionaries have to leave about every 3 to 6 months to renew
their visas outside of the country. Pray for this family and others that
are having visa problems.
Thank you for praying!
Melinda

Dear Prayer Partners,

I know I should not be amazed by what the Lord continues to show me but I am. This morning while looking my Facebook page to see what is going on (I have learned this is important when having a Facebook page) my attention was drawn to a link from a colleague who serves in Czech Republic. I am attaching the link for you to read. http://hope4cee.org/ceestories/index.php/2008/12/journeyman-from-russia-makes-an-impact-in-the-czech-republic/ The article is about a Russian journeyman that is now serving in Czech Republic. It is an amazing story of how she came to know the Lord and how God is now using her for his glory.

God bless you as he uses you in your community throughout this week. Pray he will use you to reach out to those that do not know the Lord.

Love,

Melinda

Journeyman from Russia makes an impact in the Czech Republic
December 8th, 2008

by Karen Pearce

Natasha enjoys the first snow of winter

Natasha, an International Mission Board (IMB) Journeyman to Olomouc, Czech Republic, was proud of herself for buying her own train ticket, finding the correct platform and even boarding and locating her seat. However, since she had been in the country only a few weeks, she didn’t realize the train she had chosen was going in the wrong direction.

As she paused from reading her book to glance out the window, she saw valleys, hills, tunnels, towns and villages she had never seen before.

“For the first few minutes after I realized what was happening, I felt so sick I wanted to throw up,” Natasha said. “Instead, I prayed God would calm my heart and give me wisdom to know what to do.”

Natasha found comfort in the fact that she was listening to music that seemed to be playing just for her.

“Lord, I don’t know where all this is going, or how it all works out; lead me to peace that is past understanding, a peace beyond all doubt…” sing the Newsboys, a Christian group that’s words seemed appropriate for the moment.

After four hours of travel, instead of the necessary two, Natasha safely made it home.

“The good part of it was that I was not scared or having a heart attack, but rather enjoying the scenery and falling in love with this beautiful country, parts of which I would have never been able to see if not for a wrong train,” she said.

This is just one of many adventures Natasha has experienced since giving her life to Christ and following His call from Russia to America, and then back to Europe.

The journey

Natasha grew up in Tartarstan, Russia, and lived her childhood knowing of God only through the Orthodox Church, which kept Him distant and un-engaging. That changed in college when Natasha’s classmate returned from a year in America, now a believer, and shared about her personal relationship with Christ. Though Natasha faced accusations of betrayal and was ostracized by many, she committed her life to Christ, clung to her new-found faith and let it shape her future. Her church in Russia became the hub of her life, and there she learned through evangelism and discipleship in surrounding villages that “missions” is a vital part of her faith.

Through an American/Russian partnership with her church, she was invited to study dental hygiene in America, and followed God’s leading. Her love of sharing Christ continued in her new Texas home, and eventually she heard God calling her back to Europe as a missionary. In fact, God gave her such a strong burden for the Czech Republic that she considered moving there on her own, learning the language and culture and sharing Christ.

However, friends told her about the IMB Journeyman program and she looked into that, instead. When she saw a request for an ESL (English as a Second Language) teacher in Olomouc, she was excited and started researching the Czech Republic, its people and religion. What she found about the low number of believers and the secular lifestyle broke her heart.

“I started crying—it was weird—I was bawling in the bookstore,” she said. “I felt like God was telling me, ‘Nobody goes there.’ I was like, ‘I’ll go. I really want to go.’ I felt like God was really telling me that was the place where He wants me to be.”

So, once again, Natasha followed God to a new country.

New home

Since arriving in Olomouc, Natasha has started language classes, begun teaching English, and served cookies, candies and Bibles to passers-by at her ministry team’s annual Christmas booth. She has learned valuable lessons—making eye contact is not something Czechs value, saying, ‘Excuse me’ when trying to exit the elevator gets no response, and, of course, checking the direction of your train is very important. However, despite the cultural differences, Natasha loves her new calling.

“My life here is incredible, and God has been showing me His love, mercy and care over and over again,” she said. “I love every bit of my days here, and pray that they would be filled with … words and deeds for His glory until the end of my term.”

Team Moravia

Steve and April Brown are the leaders of Natasha’s ministry group, Team Moravia. They consider their newest member a direct answer to prayer.

“We’ve been praying for someone to join our team for four years now,” April said.

Natasha’s arrival could not have come at a better time. God has been doing some amazing things in Olomouc in the past few months.

Not only are several members of the team’s home group awaiting baptism, but a young man named Honza recently accepted Christ, and the Browns have begun an international church in Olomouc that is averaging about 50 people each meeting.

“God constantly brings people to us and we are so grateful for it,” Steve said. “April and I are meeting with people weekly for cappuccinos and conversation–they talk, we listen; we talk, they listen. We have had great opportunities to share the hope that lies within us.”

In this atmosphere, Steve is grateful to have Natasha on their team.

“With her perspective and background, it will speak immensely into the hearts of Czech people,” he said. “She’ll be able to speak to them more clearly than us, since she has a better understanding of where they come from.”

For Natasha, she knows she is where God wants her.

“I went to America because I was sure God had a plan for me,” she said. “Now I know He took me over there so I could leave.”

Her ministry

Natasha’s friend who led her to Christ taught Natasha a lot. She didn’t push the Gospel on her, but lived what she believed. Her attitude, perspective and conversation evidenced her faith.

“I remember her being different,” Natasha said. “She was just an attractive person you wanted to be with—and then to find out what changed her—I knew I needed that.”

Now Natasha wants God to use her in the same way. She desires to truly love the Czech people.

“First Timothy 1 says that love comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience and a sincere faith,” Natasha said. “My prayer is that I have those qualities to show the love of Christ and to be a bold witness.”

For more information on how you can be involved in what God is doing in the Czech Republic, visit the Web site.

Spread the word about Hope4cee.org Stories:

Monday Afternoon

We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19 (NIV)

We made a “flying” trip to Rome (Georgia) to be with Jason’s family. We enjoyed seeing all of them and doing some fun things together – feeding ducks, geese, and a swan at Berry College, seeing many, many deer at Berry College, putting together a 500 piece puzzle, eating and more eating, attending worship at West Rome Baptist church where we witnessed 15 baptisms and heard 3 awesome testimonies of thanksgiving, attending the reveal of an extreme makeover (by West Rome Baptist Church and XL (their alternative church) and witnessing the wedding of the lady whose family benefited from the makeover. Sunday was a day I’ll probably remember with chill bumps for a long time! That was all of top of receiving some hugs and kisses from some of the most special people in our lives!

You can read the story of the makeover in this online newspaper article.
http://news.mywebpal.com/partners/680/public/news937152.html
Take time to view the video. You will be amazed!
Many people said you needed to see the before and after pictures to really appreciate the love and work this family benefited from.

XL:http://www.xlwired.com/
West Rome Baptist Church:http://www.westrome.org/
There were approximately 1,000 in worship service yesterday morning. What a spirit of excitement about what God has done!

Some of you please call or email me and let me know what I missed here in Kentwood that needs to be shared on The Prayer Link. I have no current information at this time.

Jennie and Boyd also make it safely home today from a trip to Paris. Thank God for his traveling grace for our family over the last few days.

Read the updates on Emily Panter @ http://www.emilypanter.blogspot.com/. Continue to pray for Emily and her family.

You can read the updates on Don Denton @ http://www.caringbridge.org/cb/viewJournal.do?method=executeInit. Pray for this family too.

Ray Wilburn Tompkins
(March 7, 1942 – November 23, 2008)
U.S. Veteran Ray Wilburn Tompkins was born on March 7, 1942 and passed away at 10:37AM, Sunday, November 23, 2008 at his residence in Greensburg. He was the son of the late Roy and Mona Sharp Tompkins. Ray was 66 and a native of Paradise, MT. He was a Veteran of the United States Air Force where he was awarded the Air Force Good Conduct Medal and the Air Force Longevity Service Award.

He was survived by his wife, Mrs. Katherine Tompkins, Greensburg; 3 daughters, Shelia Simmons, Osyka, MS; Karen Barkman and husband, Kenneth, Carriere, MS; and Amanda Hilton and husband Christopher, Greensburg, LA; 2 sisters, Nancy Bradshaw, Morganton, NC & Rose DeNu, San Jose, CA; a half sister, Martha Good, Paradise, MT; step-mother, Mrs. Maxine Tompkins; 7 grandchildren & 2 great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by parents, 2 brothers, James Frank Tompkins & Gary Wayne Tompkins; a half sister, Betty Lou Moore.

There will be a memorial service at a later date in the Day’s Cemetery, Liverpool.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to: Community Care Hospice, 1007 W. Thomas St.,Suite A, Hammond, LA 70403.

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

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

Chief John J. (Bacile) Polito, Sr.
(January 14, 1940 – November 23, 2008)
U.S. Veteran Died at 10:07 p.m. on Sunday, November 23, 2008 at his residence in Independence, LA. He was a native of Kenner, LA. Age 68 years. He was member of Independence Fire Department for 45 years where he served as chief for 37 years. He also served as an Alderman and was the current Mayor Pro-temp of Independence. He was the Chief of District #11 Volunteer Fire Department in Livingston Parish where he was responsible for chartering their department. He was a life member of the Louisiana State Fireman’s Association, a member of the Louisiana Municipal Association, an employee of Tangipahoa Parish Council, a member of the Advisory Committee for Central Tangipahoa Head Start, was an avid farmer and loved to spend time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Congetta Drago Polito, Independence; 2 daughters, Mary Polito Spencer and husband, Tommie, Independence and Patricia Polito Sparacello and husband, Sammy, Independence; 2 sons, John J. Polito, Jr. and wife, Dianna, Independence and Michael A. Polito and wife, Missy, Tickfaw; 7 grandchildren, Lauren Spencer Hardy and husband, Christopher, Jessica Polito, Brandi Polito, Sam Sparacello, Jr., Bridget Polito, Tommie “TJ” Spencer and Stephani Sparacello; 2 great-grandsons, Brayden Polito Carlisle and Christpher D. “CJ” Hardy, Jr.; 5 brothers, Nick Bacile, Jr., Baptist, John Bacile, Metairie, Anthony Bacile, Baton Rouge, Nace Bacile, Walker and Charles Bacile, Walker; sister, Camilla Bacile, Independence; numerous nieces and nephews, family and friends. Preceded in death by his brother, Vincent Polito; father, Joseph Polito; mother, Mary Mitra Polito Bacile; step-father, Nick Bacile, Sr. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Tuesday and from 8 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday. Religious Services at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church, Independence, at 11 a.m. Wednesday. Services conducted by Deacon Roger Navarra. Interment Colonial Cemetery, Independence, LA.

Courage

PETER CARTWRIGHT, A nineteenth-century, circuit-riding preacher, was an uncompromising man…

One Sunday morning when he was to preach, we was told that President Andrew Jackson was in the congregation. Cartwright was warned not to say anything out of line.

When Cartwright stood to preach, he said, “I understand that Andrew Jackson is here. I have been requested to be guarded in my remarks. Andrew Jackson will go to hell if he doesn’t repent.”

The congregation was shocked and wondered how the president would respond. After the service, President Jackson shook hands with Peter Cartwright and said, “Sir, if I had a regiment of men like you, I could whip the world.”

“In those days John the Baptist came preaching in the wilderness of Judea, and saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” ( Matt. 3:1-2).

I’m not sure my courage would be equal to that, but I pray for more courage to speak up with the appropriate words at the appropriate times.

Anna Lee