Category: FBC

Wednesday Afternoon

http://bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28570

Please check this website to read about the young missionary who passed away Monday in Russia. (Jennie told me Monday, but the IMB didn’t release any information until today.) Please pray for the family, friends, co-workers, and those to whom she and her family ministered. Teri Tarleton and her family were appointed missionaries when Boyd and Jennie were appointed journeymen to Romania and Brazil. They all have been serving in the same region in Central and Eastern Europe.

Wednesday

 

 

“Or what man is there among you who,

if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone?

Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent?

If you then, being evil,

know how to give good gifts to your children,

how much more will your Father who is in heaven

give good things to those who ask Him!”

~Matthew 7:9-11~

 

 

 

Ms. Emily Bridges fell at home recently. She’s in the nursing home for extra care.

 

 

It’s back to school time! Schools are filled with activity as preparations for the new school year are going strong. Pray for students and school employees as a new year begins.

 

 

Don’t forget the Beth Moore Simulcast Friday evening and Saturday morning. If you don’t have a ticket yet, call the church office at 985-229-8111.

 

 

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

Cost

SINGER, SONGWRITER FIONA Apple writes piercing words about relationships…

While I do not endorse all she writes/does, her song, “Paper Bag,” carries a profound lesson.

In her song, she discusses a man who holds a powerful attraction for her. At the outset, she is exhilarated because she thinks the dove of hope is about to alight upon her. Then, she realizes it was only a paper bag and the jarring image awakens her from her stupor.

She carries the image into her analysis of the doomed relationship. Her lover was a man who had failed to grow up and was not ready for an adult relationship. She knew she had to leave before she was in too far.

Fiona writes, “Hunger hurts, but starving works, when it costs too much to love.” These words are stunning when we carefully meditate upon their implications.

Millions are in toxic dating relationships that are almost certainly doomed to fail. Sadly, in many cases, they will marry and complete the nightmare that will end in tragedy, spiritually and emotionally. Millions more have already wed and their misery is very real. Their pain and heartaches take too many years from their lives. The price is too high.

Emotions often blind the human heart and we fail to see our situation for what it is. We must step out of our emotions and listen to the rational. We must be fearless as we see the bigger picture.

Loved ones try to open our eyes to the dangers we face but our emotions close our ears. We refuse to listen and we lash out at our loved ones until we hit bottom and see what we had refused to see.

In our Christian walks, these words are equally profound.

We place our pleasure ahead of our souls and turn against God. We satisfy our hunger for sin when we would be better off starving. Solomon writes, “Better is a dry morsel with quietness, Than a house full of feasting with strife” (Proverbs 17:1, NKJV) We must see the bigger picture and say no to our appetites when they place us at odds with God.

Satan, the father of lies (John 8:44), places lies strategically ahead of us where we are most vulnerable (1 John 2:15-16). We pick them up, place them in our pockets, they creep into our hearts and lead us away from Christ (Luke 15:11-32).

Sin is too dangerous. The price is too steep. “But each one is tempted when he is drawn away by his own desires and enticed. Then, when desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin; and sin, when it is full-grown, brings forth death” (James 1:14-15).There is too much at stake.

An eternity in hell is never worth the momentary pleasure of Satan’s lies. Yet, we persevere each day, paying Satan’s impossible price. We accept sin’s call while the voice of God’s Word speaks rationally and clearly through Scripture.

God calls us to a higher calling (Romans 12:1-2). Our sinful appetites yearn to be satisfied. However, Satan’s food is poison (1 Peter 5:8). We may hunger for it but starving is better. The food of the Lord is far more satisfying (John 6:26-35).

Jesus says, I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly (John 10:10) “And these will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life” (Matthew 25:46). The challenges are serious but the consequences are eternal. Now, we have to choose. Be wise. (Richard Mansel at: http://www.forthright.net/square_one/counting_the_costs.html)


“For which of you,

intending to build a tower,

does not sit down first and count the cost,

whether he has enough to finish it.”

~Luke 14:28~

 

 

 

 

Thank-you for your availability for prayer each day. You mean so much to so many people.
Anna Lee

Tuesday

 

 

We know that we have passed from death to life,

because we love our brothers.

Anyone who does not love remains in death.

~1 John 3:14 (NIV)~

 

 

 

Both Bro. Joey and Karen told me Karen’s brother, Aubrey Perry, will have his surgery today in Alabama. The time is not know, so just begin praying now.

 

 

Another Marvelous Monday! We have had good worship services during July. These fantastic services will be greatly missed. Seeing former staff people and updates our mental records of their families was wonderful! The music was varied and brought out such wonder talent of our musicians and choir. The messages clearly spoke to our hearts. Thanks to all of those who led in these services and to all others who took a part in working behind the scenes to prepare food for the suppers or the fellowships.

 

Deacons for the week:

  • Smiley Conerly
  • Roy Turner

KneEmail

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

BILL GATES AND Bill Michael Bloomberg are men who need little introduction…

Gates, founder of the Microsoft empire, and Bloomberg, mayor of New York City, are both rich beyond imagination. On Wednesday of this week, they declared their intention to pool some of their resources for a worthy cause.

The focus of their efforts is an attempt to curb smoking in developing nations. Most in the United States now know that smoking cigarettes poses serious threats to one’s health. People in other countries, like China and India, have not been adequately warned, believe Bloomberg and Gates. Together they have pledged half a billion dollars to fight “a global tobacco epidemic.”

We applaud the efforts of these billionaires. Their actions qualify as an example of philanthropy. Perhaps others will be motivated by their examples to be more generous on behalf of others.

The word “philanthropy” comes from the Greek, the language of the New Testament. “Phil” refers to “love” and “anthropos” is the word for “man”. The word is found in the Bible, most notably in Titus 3:4-5: “But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared … he saved us …” (NKJV). “Love” in that verse is translated from “philanthropia,” and is a concept upon which our salvation depends. Had God not felt this love toward man, we would have been abandoned in a hopeless struggle with sin.

If God’s love for mankind shows itself in clear and powerful ways, should God’s people not also seek to show their love for others? Can we be described as philanthropic?

Helping people attain healthier lifestyles is a noble aim, but it falls far short of helping them reach salvation. On this point, Paul’s questions continue to demand an answer: “How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? And how shall they hear without a preacher? And how shall they preach unless they are sent?” (Romans 10:14,15).

Imagine the eternal good that could be accomplished with half a billion dollars! Missionaries could be placed in distant locations; radio broadcasts could preach God’s word where congregations do not yet exist; food, clothing and shelter could prepare the way for the gospel in areas ravaged by natural disaster. People will only be able to call upon the Lord when they know about him. Tragically, millions in our world have still not heard of Jesus.

We can’t wait for a Bill Gates or a Michael Bloomberg to fund the spread of the gospel. But thousands of Christians can step forward with smaller amounts, and this “seed” will go far in reaching the lost (see 2 Corinthians 9:6-11). While individual giving to charitable institutions declines, disciples who trust the promises of God must demonstrate their superior philanthropy. (Tim Hall at: http://www.forthright.net/heavenly_connections/true_philanthropy.html)

“But when the kindness and the love of God our Savior toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us, through the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:4-5; cf. Acts 28:2).
Let’s do our part to help the people of the world be saved!

Anna Lee

Monday

“But you will not even need to fight.

Take your positions;

then stand still and watch the Lord’s victory.

He is with you, O people of Judah and Jerusalem.

Do not be afraid or discouraged.

Go out there tomorrow, for the Lord is with you!”

~2 Chronicles 20:17 (NLT)~

Bro. Joey and Karen drove home last night. Karen’s brother, Aubrey Perry, as resting. The doctors have not yet determined if surgery is an option for him. Pray for Aubrey, the family, and for the medical staff as they care for him. Your continued prayers for all of them will be greatly appreciated.

I forgot to mention Robert Wilson has shingles. Those of you who have had them and those of you who have not had them know they can be painful and long-lasting. Pray for Robert as he endures this period of time.

With some hesitancy, I went into the basement area of the church yesterday morning. I am very happy to report the flea problem we had last week has been taken care of. The members of the classes that meet there appreciate all the efforts to make our space usable again.


MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. Pray for a missionary couple in Thailand and their three young children as they transition to stateside assignment in the fall. Pray that they will finish this term of service well and that the Lord will renew them physically and spiritually while they are in the United States.

BUCHAREST, ROMANIA (BOO-kuh-rest). Baptist representatives Roger and Melinda Russell write: “We thank the Lord for allowing our family to be a part of the Bucharest Christian Academy (BCA) community over the past nine years. Seeing our sons graduate in 2002, 2005 and now 2008, as well as the other students we have come to know, has been special. BCA has been a blessing from the Lord! The Christian teachers give of themselves in so many ways; saying just thank you does not seem sufficient. Please ask the Lord to provide additional Christian teachers for BCA. The school especially needs secondary science, math and history teachers for the 2008-2009 school year.”

Marvelous Mondays for 2008 have certainly been marvelous. The last Marvelous Monday at FBC, Kentwood for this year will be tonight at 7 P.M. Dr. Steve Echols will preach and Dr. Ronnie Nielsen will lead lead the music. Angie Nielsen will sing the solo for the choir special. Expectations for the service are high. A time of fellowship will follow. If you are in the area, please try to attend. I know you will be richly blessed.

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

Parallels

UNDOUBTEDLY, ONE COULD find more contrasts than comparisons between Christ’s birth and death…

Yet, a study of both reveals some interesting parallels. Both changed the world and have altered the impact of eternity. Consider the following:

1) At both, He was rejected of men ( Luke 2:7; Mark 15:15).

2) At both, He was cast “outside” ( Luke 2:7; Hebrews 13:12).

3) At both, Mary was there ( Luke 2:7; John 19:26).

4) At both, myrrh was present for use upon Him (Matt. 2:11; John 19:39).

5) At both, there was darkness ( Matthew 2:10,14; Matt. 27:45).

6) At both, His body was wrapped in clothing ( Luke 2:7,12; Mark 15:46).

7) At both, a Herod becomes curiously involved (Matt. 2:7ff; Luke 23:7ff).

8) At both, there was worship-though the first was genuine and the second mocking (Matt. 2:11 and Luke 2:13-14; Mark 15:19).

9) At both, wise men recognized His deity ( Matthew 2:1ff; Mark 15:39 and Luke 23:41)

10) At both, Jew and Gentile were there.

11) At both, He was hailed as King-though one was in earnest and the other in jest (Matt. 2:2; Mark 15:26,32).

12) At both, an “honorable” man named Joseph was present (Matt. 1:19 + Luke 2:16; Mark 15:43).

13) At both we find the chief priests and scribes involved (Matt. 2:4-6; 27:1ff). (Neal Pollard)

“And the Word became flesh

and dwelt among us,

and we beheld His glory,

the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,

full of grace and truth.”

John 1:14

Have a great Monday and a great work week.

Anna Lee

Saturday

“You do not know what will happen tomorrow.

For what is your life?

It is even a vapor that appears for a little time

and then vanishes away.”

~Jas. 4:14~

 

 

 

Pray for Jana P. Benoit as she is now on bed rest. She’s expecting her second son in September.

Pray for those who will participate in On Mission in Kentwood today.

Thank God for the youth from Simpson, La. who led the sports camp last week. The children reported a good experience. Pray for “eternal” results.

Please pray for Bucharest Christian Academy! Below is a note from BCA’s school director, Jennifer Lipp.

July 25, 2008

Dear Family and Friends,

1 Last Day May 2008 021.jpgnew family enrolled in BCA this week.

1 teacher resigned (she and her husband were reassigned to ministry in another city).

4 positions are still actively being recruited for (secondary science and social

studies, business manager, and administrative assistant/receptionist).

9 teachers need more financial support before returning to BCA in early August.

26 days left until the 2008/2009 school year starts at BCA (August 20).

75 students (approximately) will be walking through the doors on that day…expecting teachers (or at least their parents will :)).

?? number of times I have laid all of this before God, asked for wisdom, reminded Him of His faithfulness to us in the past, and told Him we are trusting in Him for the future!

GOD… Able. Sovereign. Good. Trustworthy. Faithful. Thanks for your continued prayers for our needs-I look forward to seeing how He provides! And, if you or someone you know would like to invest in the lives of amazing kids like the ones pictured here, please let me know. I can guarantee you grateful parents, (mostly) compliant students, and great colleagues!

With expectation and joy,

Jen 🙂


Pearl Bush Pearson
(June 22, 1924 – July 25, 2008)


Earth has no sorrows that heaven cannot heal. Died at 7:38 a.m. on Friday, July 25, 2008 at her daughter’s residence in Baton Rouge, LA. She was a native of Bush, LA and a resident of Baton Rouge, LA. Age 84 years. Visitation at St. Elizabeth Catholic Church, Kentwood, from 9 a.m. on Monday until religious services at 2:00PM Monday. Services conducted by Fr. Joe Camilleri. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Survived by daughter, Sheila Ann Pearson and her finance’, Brett Hoggat, son, Clyde W. Pearson and his wife, Lynne P. Pearson, 2 granddaughters, Shelley P. Alexander and her husband, Scott Michael Alexander, and Kristi P. Rounds and her husband, Chad Michael Rounds, 3 great-grandchildren, Payton Michael Alexander, Emma Claire Alexander, and Ave Madelyn Rounds. Preceded in death by husband Clarence B. Pearson, 8 siblings, parents, Henry and Irene Bush, Pallbearers will be Clyde W. Pearson, Scott Michael Alexander, Payton Michael Alexander, Chad Rounds, Brett Hoggatt, and Keith Hoggatt. Our sincere gratitude and thanks to Brett Hoggatt who gave so much of himself the last 3 weeks of her life. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.

THAT WHICH LASTS FOREVER

An angry motorist went back to a garage where he had purchased an expensive battery for his car six months earlier. “Listen,” the motorist grumbled to the owner of the garage, “when I bought that battery you said it would be the last battery my car would ever need. It died after only six months!”

“Sorry,” apologized the garage owner. “I didn’t think your car would last longer than that.”

We live in a day and time when we expect everything to come with a lifetime warranty. We don’t want our battery to ever wear out. We don’t want our car to ever wear out. And yes, it’s even true that we don’t want our bodies to wear out. But each and every day we are reminded of what Peter said:

“All flesh is as grass,

and all the glory of man as the flower of the grass.

The grass withers, and its flower falls away,

but the word of the LORD endures forever.”

~I Peter 1:24-25~

We live in a world composed of that which is temporary. Nothing which is material will last forever. All will eventually fade. All will eventually pass away. Only that which has its foundation in God and His Word will live on.

May you live your life so as to be grounded in that which will never be destroyed!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Make a difference to someone today!

Anna Lee

Friday

 

 

“Then all this assembly shall know

that the Lord does not save with sword and spear;

for the battle is the Lord’s,

and He will give you into our hands.”

~1 Samuel 17:47~

Mr. Frankie Gehringer continues to improve from his recent heart problem. Please continue to pray for him and his family.

Please continue to pray for Richard Dunn as he battles dehydration as a side-effect of cancer treatment.

Would you put Bill Frazier on the prayer link. He is having problems with paralysis, and waiting at home for a neurosurgeon.

HELLO I WOULD ASK FOR EVERYONE TO PRAY FOR MY DAD WAYNE WESTMORELAND HE IS DEALING WITH SOME TRYING TIMES….THANK YOU,LISA

Mary Phillips Savage
Mary Phillips Savage, 91, of Lake Charles, died on Wednesday, July 23, 2008, in a local hospital. Mrs. Savage was born Jan. 10, 1917, in Marshall, Texas, to Roy Phillips and Amy Holmes. She graduated from Covington High School, attended Normal Teacher’s College in Natchitoches for two years and then finished her education in Lafayette. A teacher for 41 years, Mrs. Savage taught mostly first grade at a number of schools, including Vidrine, Starks, Sulphur, Washington State, Oregon State, Baton Rouge, Loranger and Amite. She married Levi F. Batte, of Vinton, in 1941, and together they had a daughter, Jan. In 1978, she married Bill Helm and in 1981, she married Louis J. Savage. She enjoyed bird watching, collecting rocks, square dancing and traveling. Mrs. Savage was a lifelong member of the Methodist Church and over the years taught Sunday school, directed and participated in choirs and led prayer groups. She was preceded in death by her parents; all three husbands; brothers, John Robert Phillips, who was of Polk City, Fla., and William Phillips, who was of Los Angeles; sisters, Emma Nell Sherlock, who was of Los Angeles, and Helen Heidelburg, who was of Panama City, Fla. Mrs. Savage is survived by her daughter, Jan Batte Craven and husband Bruce Craven, of Moss Bluff; three stepdaughters, Linda Zemler and husband Gary, of Pittsburg, Texas, Nancy Smart and husband Steve, of Pineville, and Sally Foret, of Lake Charles; granddaughter, Virginia Chi and husband George, of League City, Texas; stepgrandchildren and their spouses, Scott Doherty and Sharon, Brent Doherty and Joy, Todd Doherty and Margaret, Bryan Smart and Stacey, Blair Clark and Bryant, Dr. Adam Foret and Catherine, and Dr. Ryan Foret and Elise; and 10 great-grandchildren. Her funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Friday, July 25, in the Johnson Funeral Home Chapel, Lake Charles. The Rev. Richard Humphries will officiate. Burial will follow in Big Woods Cemetery. Visitation will be at the funeral home on Friday from 9 a.m. until the start of the service. Words of comfort to the family may be expressed online at http://www.johnsonfuneralhome.net.
Published in The Advocate on 7/25/2008

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

July 25, 2008

“Let the little children come to Me, and don’t stop them, because the kingdom of God belongs to such as these,” Luke 18:16b

They put on a play…

People go to many countries around the world to help missionaries. Recently, some people from Oklahoma went to South Africa. On Monday morning, they put on a play at a school for first through eighth graders. The play helped the children understand that Jesus is the answer to any problem they have with sin.

The principal really liked the play and the stories the young people shared, so he asked them to talk with his family. He has two daughters and a son. The visitors encouraged the principal’s family to really live as a Christian family-to have family prayer time and read the Bible together. The team prayed for the family too. Then the children spent time with some of the younger visitors. That’s when it happened!

The principal’s 11-year-old son accepted Christ. Isn’t that exciting? Pray that the family will grow in understanding Jesus and what He teaches in the Bible. Pray that they will find a church. Pray for the principal to show the love of Jesus to the children at his school.

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray for Mozambique because people are drinking the water that is dirty. LUKE, age 8 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray for my friend RU. She is not a Christian. I pray that she will become a Christian and for RM too. Pray for my family. They are sad because we just came back from the USA. JOELLA, age 8 1/2 (South Asia)
Pray for my friends that they will have enough food and money to provide for their family. And when they come to my house that I will be able to get my school done and not stress out. LIBBY, age 14 (Pacific Rim)

I live in Mmabatho, South Africa. My prayer is for my Grandfather who has cancer. ANDY, age 12, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

My grandfather had a heart attack. Please pray for my brother–he has a cold. And also please pray for India. And pray for my family. It is hard to live in India. MARIAH, age 8 1/2 (South Asia)

I have a friend named Papa and he always plays with me. He runs around with me. We like to jump on the trampoline together and swing on the tire swing at my house. He has a big tire in his yard. We like to jump on it. We play on his bike, too. Papa said he doesn’t like his school. He wants to come to my school. Pray that Papa wouldn’t get hurt when he plays outside or get thorns in his foot. ETHAN, age 5 (West Africa)

Please pray for the poor people of Brazil. LYDIA, age 10 (South America)

Please pray for my adjustment to the USA for university and my family left here in South Africa. SARAH, age 18 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

AN ANSWER FROM THE FIELD
We prayed for rain in West Africa and it finally came. Thunder and lightning and pouring rain! The Forsythe kids woke up giggling, joining the shrieks of laughter of the Senegalese kids outside. They all jumped and splashed in the puddles-it was the first big rain in Fatick since last October. Thank you for praying for rain. The Sereer farmers can really do their work now. Ask God to send just the right amount of rain for a big crop of millet. Millet is like corn meal-if your mom bakes corn bread, she starts with corn meal. Millet is a very important food for the Sereer people.


My closing thought this morning is On Mission in Kentwood. We will be out in the community tomorrow morning. There’s something for everyone to do. Here’s what you can do:

  • Pray for us as we meet needs and pray for people in our community.
  • Tell us of needs (yard work, minor repairs, household tasks, fallen tree or limbs, etc.) you may be aware of that we can address. You may contact me or the church office (985-229-8111).
  • Join us at 8:00 for a very rewarding experience. We’ll have a task just right for you. You’ll be richly blessed!

Blessings,

Anna Lee

Thursday

Put on the new self,

created to be like God

in true righteousness and holiness.

~Ephesians 4:24 (NIV)~

Mrs. Avis Sullivan continues to progress nicely following surgery. Please continue to pray for her.

Tyler Easley, grandson of Judy Easley, remains in Woman’s Hospital in Baton Rouge. Please remember him and his family, especially Joffrey and Moira, in your prayers.

Mrs. Jimmie Shaw continues to improve since her recent fall. Pray for her as she goes through rehabilitation for a few days.

Cliff Titus has had some more difficult days lately. Pray for Cliff and Lauree as they deal with his continuing health issues.

Continue to pray for those who are battling cancer daily. Pray for strength and hope.

 

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Wednesday, July 23, 2008

“Blessed are you when people hate you…

on account of the Son of Man!

Rejoice in that day…for behold,

your reward is great in heaven”

(Luke 6:22-23a, ESV).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, inviting you to pray for the people of Iran.

Fear is common for new believers in Iran. They do not know how to explain their new faith and are afraid of family response. Compounding the sense of isolation and fear is a reluctance to meet with other believers. “What if the others are only posing as believers and use information they find out about me to harm me?” Ask God to grant courage and boldness.

One Iranian Arab couple has refused to leave their country despite persecution, but remain in order to share the Good News. Pray for God’s protection over their lives.

V, on the other hand, is an Azeri of Iran who has had to flee and is not able to return to his family. He recently received a new version of the Bible in the Farsi language. He has found it much easier to read and has been sharing it with others.

MR is a Sorani-speaking Kurdish man from a key western city in Iran and leader of a small group of Kurdish believers. Recently MR was thrown in jail for his faith. The authorities tell him that he may be in jail for as long as six months. They also say that if he will discontinue his Christian activities and also expose other believers, his time in jail will be reduced. Please pray for MR to remain faithful and strong during his time in jail. Pray that he will fully experience the peace of God. Often during times of persecution, God calls out new leaders. Pray for believers to be attentive to His call during MR’s imprisonment.

* Please pray that these experiences will result in the growth of the church in Iran.

* Ask that the hearts of Iranian believers will be stirred to reach their people.

* Pray that these believers will rejoice in persecution for great is their reward.


On Mission is Kentwood in this Saturday. It’s not too late to sign up to participate in some way. There’s something for everyone. If you know of a project that needs our attention, please contact me or the church office.

Continue to pray for the children’s sports camp at church. Pray for safety and fun, but mostly for growth in relationships with God. Thank God for the young people from Simpson and Kentwood who gave of themselves to run the camp this week.

I just received an email from Jennie. She and the children are now home. Boyd remains with the International World Changers and will get them to the airport for the return trip home. Thank God for the opportunities of the last two weeks to impact the lives of the Roma. Remember there is a seven hour time difference, so pray today for the travelers as they return home tomorrow. Pray for Bro. Brady Haynes as he continues to minister to and influence the young adults in Birmingham. Thank God so many were willing to give of themselves to take the news of Jesus to an often overlooked people group.

Boyd Alton Bennett
A native and resident of Central, he passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on Wednesday, July 23, 2008. He was 82. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Mildred N. Bennett; daughter, Janice B. Carpenter, Deville; son, David Bennett and wife Lois, Baton Rouge; brother, Levi and wife Elaine Bennett; four sisters and brothers-in-law, Laura Lee and Whitey Waters, of Central, Bobbie and Pete Neyland, of Baker, Marguerite Baudin, of Kentwood, and Louise and Barzie Fletcher, San Angelo, Texas; seven grandchildren, Ralph Carpenter Jr., Amanda Carpenter Cooksey, Eric Bennett, David Bennett, James Bennett, Lisa Bennett Langley and Michelle Bennett White; and eight great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by his father, James Bennett; mother, Margaret “Maggie” Browning Bennett; three sisters, Inez Ward, Annie Martin and Flarrie Baudin; and son-in-law, Ralph Carpenter. He was a retired route salesman for Holsum Bakery. He served during World War II in the 409th Quartermaster Depot Company as a cook. He was a member of the Central Masonic Lodge. In 1976, he was one of the founding members of the Central Volunteer Fire Department and in 1969, he was a Boy Scout leader. He was instrumental in the building and opening of Central Private School in 1968. He was a member of Zoar Baptist Church. Visitation at Rabenhorst Funeral Home East, 11000 Florida Blvd., on Friday, July 25, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Visitation resumes at the funeral home on Saturday from 8 a.m. until religious service at 10 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Danny Smith, pastor of Spring Creek Baptist Church in Kentwood. Interment in Zoar Baptist Church Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Ralph Carpenter Jr., Brandon Cooksey, Eric Bennett, David A. Bennett, James Bennett and Mike Neyland. Honorary pallbearers are Joseph White and Aaron Langley. Special thanks to Hospice of Baton Rouge and Dr. Say. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hospice of Baton Rouge, the American Heart Association or Alzheimer’s Services of the Capital Area.
Published in The Advocate on 7/24/2008

GETTING OLDER (part 4)

George Burns once said, “Tennis is a game for young people. Until age 25, you can play singles. From there until age 35, you should play doubles. I won’t tell you my age, but when I played, there were 28 people on the court — just on my side of the net.”

I’ve talked some about the fears we have related to getting older. But, I want to close out this series by looking at the positive aspect of aging. In Proverbs 20:29, Solomon wrote, “The glory of young men is their strength, and the splendor of old men is their gray head.” The Bible has for us several examples of elderly people who refused to believe their usefulness was over just because they weren’t young anymore, who served God well despite their advancing years.

One of the greatest examples is found in the book of Joshua. Caleb was 85 years old. He had served the Lord faithfully for his entire lifetime. When he was 40, he, along with eleven other soldiers, sneaked into the land of Canaan to spy out the land that God had promised them. What they saw was frightening and ten of the soldiers concluded there was no chance of victory. Joshua and Caleb were the two faithful spies who stood firm in their conviction that God could give them Canaan despite the giants in the land.

Then for the next 40 years, that unbelieving nation wandered in the wilderness until Caleb and Joshua were the only adults left. Joshua led the Israelites in conquering the land of Canaan and Caleb had fought valiantly in securing the land. But by the time we get to the 14th chapter of the book of Joshua, Caleb is an old man — 85 years old. You would think he was ready to sit out on that porch swing, but listen to him:

“And now, behold, the Lord has kept me alive, as he said, these forty-five years, ever since the Lord spoke this word to Moses while Israel wandered in the wilderness; and now, here I am this day, eighty-five years old. As yet I am as strong this day as I was on the day that Moses sent me; just as my strength was then, so now is my strength for war, both for going out and for coming in. Now therefore, give me this mountain of which the Lord spoke in that day; for you heard in that day how the Anakim were there, and that the cities were great and fortified. It may be that the Lord will be with me, and I shall be able to drive them out as the Lord said.” (Joshua 14:10-12).

At the age of 85, Caleb was still looking for ways to serve God; he asked for a mountain full of giants to conquer. It was the most difficult spot in the whole land to be conquered. He deliberately chose the hardest task. Now if anyone in that nation had earned the right to retire and live the rest of his days in comfort, it was Caleb. But, he wasn’t ready for the shelf; he wanted a mountain.

What was his secret? There are several things that I think stand out. He was a man who obviously had a positive attitude and faith in God. It’s easy to become negative as we get older, looking back on “the good old days”. But Caleb refused to be negative. He had a positive faith in God. God said, “Even to your old age, I am he, and even to gray hairs I will carry you.” (Isaiah 46:4). Caleb truly believed that, that God is in control at every stage of our lives.

Here was a man who had a divine purpose. He was in his eighties, but he believed that God had something important for him to do. And he believed that with God’s help he could do it. He was a man who looked for ways to serve God despite his advancing age. There are tasks that an older Christian can do that a younger Christian just simply isn’t equipped to do.

But, above all else, Caleb was obedient to the Lord. It’s difficult for a person to obey God in his old age if he doesn’t establish a pattern of obedience in his earlier years. But it can be done. The important thing is to continue to give yourself to the Lord no matter what your age.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

The important thing is to continue to give yourself to the Lord no matter what your age.

I think that statement deserves an”Amen”!

AMEN!

Anna Lee



Tuesday

God is working in you,

giving you the desire to obey him

and the power to do what pleases him.

~Philippians 2:13 (NLT)~

Mr. Frankie Gehringer’s surgery went well. He may be able to come home today. Please keep him in your prayers.

Ethan O’Brian, grandson of Joan Hagan, has an unexplained rash. Pray for a diagnosis so proper treatment can begin.

Mrs. Avis Sullivan is progressing at North Oaks. Please keep her in your prayers.

Mr. Bobby Raborn was able to come home last night. Pray for him as her continues to recover from double knee surgery.

Mrs. Faye Price has has some good days. Pray for her as she has additional tests today.

Marvelous Monday was again marvelous! The services have all.been very good. Next week, we will be led by Dr. Steve Echols and Rev. Ronnie Nielson. Services begin at 7 P.M. followed by a time of food and fellowship.

On Mission in Kentwood will be Saturday at 8:00 A.M. Feel free to join us for a time of giving of ourselves in the Kentwood area. You will be richly blessed for your participation.

The Sports Camp at FBC, Kentwood went well yesterday. If you have children in grades K-6 be sure to have them at the church by 8:30 this morning. They will have a good time and learn a lot.

Continue to pray for Rev. Brady Haynes and his group from Birmingham as they work with International World Changers in the Czech Republic. They are ministering to the Roma, Gypsies, with the Hatchel family. Pray for life-changing decisions among the Roma and the young adults ministering to them.

KneEmail

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


UNEXPECTED THINGS ALWAYS happen…

Life itself is a series of surprises, good and bad. The unexpected brings us both the trivial and earth-shaking. Be it a flat tire at an inconvenient moment or a terminal illness, we can’t and don’t anticipate today’s events.

The disciples were shattered when Jesus was arrested and crucified. They scattered, they ran, they hid, they followed from afar. All had one question in mind: “How could this happen?” After all, he was the Messiah-to-be, the one who would put all things right. And things went so wrong!

But the death of Christ should not have caught them unawares. Time and again he told them he would go to Jerusalem and die. And be raised from the dead. With their preconceived ideas and their own agenda, they discounted his warnings. His words were unintelligible, nonsensical, forgettable.

And then the unexpected happened.

With their world in pieces, some gravitated back to what they did before Jesus called them. Peter went fishing. But there was no return for some like Levi, where another was sitting in his tax office.

And then the unexpected happened again.

Jesus rose from the dead.

The heavenly messengers reminded them. “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise” (Luke 24:5-7 ESV).

Around the Table of the Lord, we listen again to the risen Son of Man who tells his disciples that he will come again. Our eating and drinking signals our hope in his return.

And because we eat the bread and drink the cup, his manifestation will not catch us unawares. We live for him and speak the Good News to all. We may not know the day and hour, but we know the fact of his coming.

No more angels will remind us what he said. They will trumpet his return, but there will be no more chiding. Only judgment.

So today we rejoice that, in spite of our daily surprises, good and bad, large and small, for us the Unexpected will not happen again. For ours is hope in the Awaited One.

(J. Randal Matheny at: http://www.forthright.net/communion_meditation/when_the_unexpected_happens_1.html)


“For as often as you eat this bread

and drink this cup,

you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.”

~1 Cor. 11:26~

Have a fantastic day!

Anna Lee

Monday

“Now this is the confidence that we have in Him,

that if we ask anything according to His will,

He hears us.

And if we know that He hears us,

whatever we ask,

we know that we have the petitions

that we have asked of Him.”

~1 John 5:14-15~

Pray for Mr. Frankie Gehringer as he has surgery today at SWMC to implant a pacemaker.

From the I.M.B.:

LAST FRONTIER. How long has it been since you have seen your mother? Days? Weeks? Years? A worker was visiting with a local worker and inquired about his family. His heart was touched when he heard this story: Because of hardships and uncertain times, this man was separated from his mother at the age of 4. The mother lives in a restricted-access country and the son in a neighboring country. In the last 10 years, mother and son have had some contact and even two face-to-face visits. The country where he lives has plenty of food, but his mother’s home is facing extreme conditions that make it difficult to secure her daily needs. He received word from his mother to come and see her. Her son sadly tells that he is not able to make the trip. He knows her situation is difficult, and he desires to do what he can to meet her needs. He has asked a fellow worker to go in his place. They are gathering items to take to the family. While the travel has always been difficult, the road may be closed for an indefinite time due to regulations from officials. Please join this partner in asking that our Provider will make the way clear and open for the visit. Ask for special blessings on the traveler as well as the mother. Pray that the traveler will have the opportunity to share God’s Story and love with the mother during their short visit.

AIDS. N grew up in the Thunzini community in Swaziland and attended the Thunzini Baptist Church. Her mother was not married to her father but later married an older man and moved to South Africa. Like most Africans, N’s mother and stepfather rented extra rooms in their house. One of the renters was a young man they trusted. During the 2007 school break (December/January) the young man tricked N into taking something to his room. While in the room, he attacked N, raped her and told her not to tell anyone or he would kill her. Five months later, N is 13 years old and pregnant. A study of the U.N. Children’s Fun confirms that one out of three Swazi women has suffered some form of sexual abuse as a child. Now N is one of those statistics that may include AIDS. One wonders when the nightmare of continual abuse and AIDS will end. Unfortunately, for some it is just beginning. Pray for N’s health as she deals with a pregnancy, and pray that she will not have contacted the HIV virus through this encounter. Pray for the many female children/youth/adults in Swaziland who deal with the fear of abuse on a regular basis. http://www.imb.org/AIDS/

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. A missionary writes: “One family on our team has been in the process of adopting a baby for more than a year now. They have been waiting for one committee to meet that has to approve their adoption, but the committee members are dragging their feet. They were first supposed to meet in May, then in June, and now they say it will be at the end of July. Please pray that they will actually meet at the end of July. This family has been here this term for over four years, and they are ready to head back to the United States to get recharged and reenergized. Please pray that this committee will meet quickly. Also pray that the family will trust the Lord and His plan and not be anxious!”

The devil sent thousands of little enemies to disrupt Sunday School yesterday morning. There were fleas in the ladies’ classrooms that meet in the basement. Several ladies had a number of bites and had to go home. Others had to move to different locations for classes to continue. Worship service continued as planned with no problems that I am aware of. Last night, I spoke with several of the ladies who were the most affected. They were all doing much better. Pray the problem will be completely cleared before that area is used again.

Explanation: The little enemies were left by a stray dog that entered the church when a serviceman was working at the church.

Maj. Bernard Richard “Ben” Williams Jr.
Williams Jr., Maj. Bernard Richard ‘Ben’ (USAF, ret.) Osyka Baptist Church, Osyka, Miss., from 2 P.M. until the funeral at 6 p.m.
Published in The Advocate on 7/21/2008

Sportscamp

  • FBC, Kentwood
  • Monday – Friday this week
  • 8:30 – Noon
  • Grades K – 6
  • Fee: $10.00

Please be in prayer for all the children who will attend the camp and for the youth from Simpson Baptist Church who will be leading the camp.
Marvelous Monday at FBC, Kentwood

  • Tonight at 7 P.M.
  • Preaching – Dr. J.P. Miles
  • Music – Bro. Dennie Walker
  • Piano – Mr. Bob Raborn
  • Nursery available

Deacons for the week at FBC, Kentwood

  • Mr. James Miller
  • Mr. Harrell Sharkey

Sunday Afternoon

The internet was down this morning. I’m sorry I wasn’t able to post this morning.

Joan Hagan received a good report from her tests Wednesday. She will see her surgeon on August 4th. Please pray for Joan daily.

Mr. Frankie Gehringer is still in ICU at McComb. He received a temporary pacemaker already, but will receive a permanent pacemaker in the morning. Please continue to remember Mr. Frankie and his family in your prayers.

Mrs. Faye Price continues to rest at home as suggested by the doctor. She will see her doctor again Tuesday. Please continue to remember her in your prayers.

Tyler Easley, Judy Easley’s new grandson, is still hospitalized in Baton Rouge. He continues to gain a little weight and is learning how to take nourishment. Please continue to pray for little Tyler and his family during this time.

The sports camp for children in grades K-6 will begin in the morning at 8:30. It’s not too late to enroll boys and girls for this week of activities and Bible study.

Chris Phillips, a 2006 graduate of Sumner, was killed early this morning in an automobile accident. Please pray for his family and friends.