FBC – Page 159 – The Prayer Link

Saturday

“But you are a chosen generation,

a royal priesthood,

a holy nation,

His own special people,

that you may proclaim the praises of Him

who called you out of darkness

into His marvelous light.”

~1 Peter 2:9~

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, July 18, 2008

“And in every work that he began

in the service of the house of God…

he did it with all his heart,

and prospered.”

~2 Chronicles 31:21, KJV~

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, asking you to pray for volunteer teams serving in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE).

During the month of July, several volunteer teams will minister through events, such as prayerwalking, Scripture distribution, sports evangelism, and English ministries. Already, a team from Alabama served in Kharkov, Ukraine, sharing Jesus through Backyard Bible Clubs and helping with construction projects at the church.

A group from Arkansas is now in Irbeet, Sverdlovskaya oblast on a construction project, serving through July 25. The Prague Mega-City Team of the Czech Republic is sponsoring a City Day Camp (July 19-26) as well as English Camp Benecko 2008 in the mountains north of Prague.

Volunteers from Mississippi will minister through medical teams in Kharkov, Ukraine, this coming week. Pray that the Ukrainian believers working alongside the volunteer team will build strong relationships with nonbelievers.

The small Baptist church in Puspokladany, Hungary will hold a sports camp. Please pray that the Lord will use this camp to strengthen ongoing friendships from past projects. Pray, also, that it will be an encouragement to the eight-member church as they serve as salt and light in this town of 17,000.

Another project with volunteers from North Carolina runs July 19-31. Team Bratislava in Slovakia will reach out to young and old alike with activities, including English courses, sports and games, and community work projects.

From July 22-31, youth from across Kamchatka, Russian Federation, will come together for a Wilderness Camp at the base of two volcanoes outside of Petropavlovsk. Activities will include daily opportunities for Bible study and worship, as well as exploring nature, rock climbing, and hiking to the top of a volcano. Pray especially for the youth who will attend; they will be from various backgrounds, ranging from “church kids” to children from the local orphanage.

* Please pray for these volunteers serving in Central and Eastern Europe as they serve Jesus with their whole hearts.

(Of course, every team serving in Central and Eastern Europe is not listed. One such team is a group of 75 International World Changers from Brady Haynes church in Birmingham. Pray for them as they minister to the Roma (Gypsies). Brady is a former youth minister of FBC, Kentwood. He will be working with Team Romany which includes the Hatchel family.)

Major Bernard “Ben” R. Williams, Jr., USAF Retired, of Osyka, died peacefully at his home on Friday, July 18, 2008, from pancreatic cancer. Visitation will be held on Monday, July 21, at Osyka Baptist Church from 2-6 PM and services will follow at 6 PM. Burial will be at Osyka Cemetery.

(Ben was the husband of Linda Williams who has worked in the Pupil Appraisal section of the Tangipahoa Parish School System for many years. Please be in prayer for Linda and her family.)

Baptist Press

July 18, 2008

CHINA–Olympic torch ventures to China’s last frontier. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28495

CHINA–China pastor, wife forced from home, living on streets. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28496

MISSOURI–McCain raises public profile of pro-life views. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28497

KENTUCKY–Builder helps churches enlarge their passion. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28498

WASHINGTON–LIFE DIGEST: Mother eliminates children to gain cancer-free baby. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28499

TENNESSEE–Church to vote on Sutton retirement. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28500

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): The election & the Supreme Court. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28501

CALIFORNIA–FIRST-PERSON (David Jeremiah): Assurance of salvation. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28502

GETTING OLDER (part 3)

Children touring a retirement home were asked by a resident if they had any questions. “Yes,” one girl said. “How old are you?”

“I’m 98,” she replied proudly.

Clearly impressed, the child’s eyes grew wide with wonder. “Did you start at one?”

In the last couple of TFTD messages, I’ve talked about our fears of growing older. I suggested that one reason we’re afraid of growing older is that many of us live in a culture that glorifies youth. Another reason we’re afraid of growing old is because of our concept of old age. We have a tendency to think of old people in a nursing home who are poor, isolated, sick, unhappy, and senile. It’s no wonder we find the prospect of growing old unattractive! But it’s an unfair evaluation. Yes, there are some old people who find it necessary to live in nursing homes. And some do become senile, although it’s a very small percentage (about 8 percent). But I really believe that most elderly people are about as happy as they were when they were younger people. If you find a cantankerous old man, chances are he was a cantankerous young man, too!

One perspective on age was offered by an elderly man who said, “Now it takes me longer to rest than it does to get tired. Often I have to sight against something to see if I’m moving….All my younger years I bemoaned the fact I was so short. Now every morning when I waken and everything hurts, I can be grateful. If I was tall, there would be so much more to hurt.”

But then as we heard it said so often, “Old age isn’t so bad when you consider the alternative!” So, what about it? Is growing old a good thing or a bad thing? Is it something to dread or something to look forward to? Well, that all depends.

At the end of the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon begins to draw some conclusions from his observations about what’s really important in this life. He says, “Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come, and the years draw near when you say, ‘I have no pleasure in them’.” (Ecclesiastes 12:1).

Solomon says, “Follow God while you are young.” And that’s important. It’s important that those of you who are young to make a conscious decision to commit yourselves to God, to surrender yourselves to his will, to faithfully obey God’s instructions beginning right now while you’re still young.

But there’s a part of us when we’re young that wants to say, “What’s the rush? Why not wait until you’ve sown a few wild oats? Why not wait thirty or forty years until you’ve had a lot of fun doing things your own way and then turn to God? That way you get the best of both worlds.”

Solomon doesn’t waste time answering that kind of reasoning. He says to remember God “before the difficult days come”. When we’re young, it’s easy to think we’ll be young forever. Our bodies play tricks on us, trying to convince us that we’ll always feel just as good as we do when we’re young. But, of all the pains that we have to deal with as we get older, the ones that hurt the most are the regrets of things we’ve done. I’ve never known anyone who is old who said, “I should have disobeyed God more when I was young. I missed out on a lot!” I’ve known many older people, though, who have said, “If I had listened to God when I was young, it would have saved me a lot of heartache.”

“The silver-haired head is a crown of glory, if it is found in the way of righteousness.” (Proverbs 16:31)

(to be continued)

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Alan Smith certainly passed on some words of widsom today. I hope you will apply them to your life and share them with others.

Anna Lee

Friday

God knew what he was doing

from the very beginning.

He decided from the outset to shape the lives

of those who love him

along the same lines as the life of his Son. . . .

We see the original and intended shape

of our lives there in him.

Romans 8:29 (MSG)

You were asked to pray for Brett Erickson, the young man from LaPlace who was in the military base in Afghanistan where nine Americans were killed Sunday. Brett was able to email his mother to say he was okay. Thank you for praying for this family. Pray for our military as they serve around the world to provide for our freedom.

Eleanor Morris is better. Please continue to pray for her.

Danny Esch has improved. Pray for continued improvement as he goes through rehabilitation.

Pray for Mrs. Avis Sullivan as she has surgery today at North Oaks.

The wake for Mrs. Inez Lea will continue today at Line Creek Baptist Church from 8 a.m. until religious services at 2 p.m. on Friday. Please continue to pray for the family.

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray
July 18, 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

A GIRL NAMED BO

Bo is a sweet girl of 12. She lives with her loving, encouraging father and gentle grandmother. Bo has a good home environment. Our family was overjoyed when we learned that she came to know Jesus. We had been visiting in the United States and found out about her salvation when we got back to Thailand. Praise the Lord! Our job now is to disciple Bo and three other new believers who are also children. Every Sunday, we take them to a Northern Thai church. We enjoy giving a ride to other curious kids too. We teach them how Christians should act and think. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will teach them all things and will remind them of everything Jesus has said to them (John 14:26). Pray that God will give us wisdom as we train these four to be a witness to their friends and family.

Pray for Bo that she will not let anyone look down on her because she is young, but may she set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity (1 Timothy 4:12) ADRIAN, teen (Pacific Rim)

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS
Please pray for my grandmother to get better.
HB, age 12 (East Asia)

Please pray for our family as we minister to people in Mozambique. WILL (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

I would like people to pray for the people in Niger to become Christians. BRADY, age 10 (West Africa)

Prayer request: We need friends in our neighborhood. EMMA, age 8, and HATTIE, age 10 (Pacific Rim)

Pray for my friends, Hank and Nicolas. ETHAN, age 9 (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Nursery Workers during Worship – July 20

Susan Rimes
Wanda Miller

FAITHSTRONG

Children’s Sports Camp
July 21-25
8:30 – 12 Noon
FBC, Kentwood
Children who completed grades K-6
$10.00
Sign-up

Beth Moore Living Proof Live 2008

FBC, Kentwood
August 1 – 6:30-9:00 & Aug. 2 -8:30 – Noon
$25.00

Marvelous Monday – July 21

J.P. Miles – preaching
Dennis Walker – music
Bob Raborn – piano

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
ONE OF THE great concerns for many churches is how to keep our young people after they have left home to begin their own lives…

Statistics indicate that we are losing a large percentage of young people during their college years when they are on their own and free to make their own choices. Even among those who remain faithful during those years, it is not uncommon for some of these to marry (often outside of the faith) and either leave the Lord’s church or drop out of religion altogether.

I am often asked what we can do to keep our young people. My answer to that question is simple…reach them and teach them! Reach them by showing an interest in them as valued individuals. Once having reached them, teach them that God has a plan for their lives. Many people in our world are wandering without definite spiritual direction. Young people need to know that God has something in mind for them now and in their future.

It’s a shame that so many young people grow up without specific spiritual instruction. Yet, the opportunities for spiritual preparation are unlimited! We provide Bible classes on Sunday morning and Wednesday night, Vacation Bible School, gospel meetings, summer youth programs as well as youth rallies, and weekly preaching. If necessary, we could provide more opportunities. The problem is not the lack of opportunity, but the lack of parental influence and direction. We make sure our young people have the best secular opportunities, but fail to encourage them to participate in spiritual activities that are designed to promote their eternal welfare.

When we lose our youth, we lose the future! No church can exist longer than its youngest generation. Want to do some great mission work? Start with the youth group and help prepare them for the future.

Reach them…teach them…and we will keep them! (Gary Knuckles)

“And these words which I command you today shall be in your heart. You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, when you walk by the way, when you lie down, and when you rise up. You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates” (Deut. 6:6-9; Prov. 22:6).

Have a blessed day!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“But you, when you pray,

go into your room,

and when you have shut your door

pray to your Father who is in the secret place;

and you Father who sees in secret

will reward you openly.”

~Matt. 6:6~

Mrs. Faye Price was able to return home yesterday. Pray for her as she addresses her health issues at home.

Joan Hagan will have outpatient tests today in Hammond. Please be in prayer for her during the tests.

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. Transition is a normal part of life for a missionary kid (MK), but that doesn’t mean that it is easy by any means. When it is time to leave for college, a young person can experience a variety of emotions but traveling overseas to begin this exciting adventure can add many more dynamics. Pray for MKs as they begin college this fall. Pray for the right roommates, wisdom for decisions in what courses and activities to pursue. Pray for good relationships to form that will inspire, encourage and bless them. Pray for their families as they release their sons and daughters, that God will grow all of them through this time of transition.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Wednesday, July 16, 2008

“For this reason God also highly exalted Him

and gave Him the name that is above every name,

so that at the name of Jesus

every knee should bow–

of those who are in heaven and on earth

and under the earth–

and every tongue should confess

that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father.”

~Philippians 2:9-11, HCSB~

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, inviting you to pray for women in predominantly Muslim cultures.

“No one seems to understand why we desire to help Palestinians, including the Palestinian people themselves!” a worker comments. A young Palestinian woman recently asked a worker why she was willing to teach her English. She explained that God had placed a love in her heart for the Palestinian people. Finding this hard to believe, the woman tried to persuade the worker otherwise, saying, “You really can’t love me!” The worker finally convinced her that her love is genuine. “I’ll have to ask God why He would do this,” the young Palestinian woman answered. Pray that this woman will come to understand that true love comes from the one true God alone.

M is a seeker in Dubai and God has been working in her life and bringing her to a deeper understanding of the truth. But in recent weeks, her growth has been combated by the evil one. She has become very busy with her new job and time-consuming visitors from her home country. She has even stopped responding to any contact from believers. It is unclear what is going on. Please ask that her faith will be proven genuine and that she will continue to turn to God’s Word for wisdom.

* Please pray for Christian workers to consistently demonstrate the love of Jesus through their outreach projects.

* Intercede for seekers and young Christians living in Muslim cultures that they will stay intentional in their study of God’s Word.

* Ask God to call out new believers who will confess the name of Jesus as Lord in these restrictive countries.

Associational WMU Meeting

Thursday
Spring Creek Baptist Church
10:00 A.M.
Covered dish luncheon

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

Praise

PSYCHOLOGISTS TELL US that one of the deepest urges in human nature is the craving to be appreciated…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Now we exhort you, brethren,

warn those who are unruly,

comfort the fainthearted,

uphold the weak,

be patient with all.”

~1 Thess. 5:14~

As you read The Prayer Link each day, please look back over the names that were recently listed. Many of these people need our continued prayers at this time. Also, please realize there are always people with needs that I am unaware of or those who would rather not be listed publicly. You can pray for these needs even if you are not aware of them.

As always, your prayers mean so much to so many. Thank you for praying each day.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.”

~James 5:16b~

Mrs. Avis Sullivan is in North Oaks, but may be able to return home soon. After a couple of weeks at home, she’ll have surgery. Please keep “Miss” Avis, one of our special friends, in your prayers. Your prayers will be greatly appreciated.

Ann Trappey called to request prayer for the son of a friend. Brett Errickson of LaPlace was in the new base in Afghanistan that was overrun by militants this weekend. His family has not heard from him and requests prayers for Brett and the others serving to protect us.

Mr. Jimmy Tolar is doing well following his latest back surgery. He was able to be at church last night. Keep praying.

Mrs. Anne Hurst is now associated with the North American Mission Board. She is excited to be able to serve in ministry again. Keep her in your prayers as well as those with whom she will minister.

Braden Alford had a good day yesterday with no apparent problem from the head injury. Thank God his fall did not create a bigger problem.

Please continue to pray for the many volunteers, including International World Changers, as they minister around the world this summer. Pray many lives will be touched because of those who care to give of themselves to help minister to others. The Hatchels are working with one team this week and another one next week. Pray for all the IMB personnel as they coordinate volunteer teams. Pray for safety as traveling involves many miles and different countries. Pray for luggage and ministry materials to arrive safely and on time. Pray for receptive hearts.

Marvelous Monday was again a very special night. I hope you were able to be there. The service was followed by a time of fellowship that was well attended. The next Marvelous Monday will be led by Dr. J.P. Miles, Dennis Walker, and Bob Raborn. I’m already looking forward to another special service.

Even though a specific country is named in this request, you can replace that country with numerous other country names and still have a very important prayer request. Add a few other country names to this request as you pray.

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. Pray for a missionary as he transitions from language school in Bangkok to life and ministry in another part of Thailand. Pray that the Lord will help him grow in his comprehension and speaking ability and that he will build good relationships with local people, both believers and non-believers. Ask the Lord will use Him mightily to further His kingdom in that province.

Patsy M. Smith
Smith, Mrs. Patsy M. First Baptist Church, Amite, at 1 p.m.
Published in The Advocate on 7/15/2008

Harry Herman Helmrich Jr.
Born Nov. 28, 1936, in Amite, to the late Irma Ellen Anthony Helmrich and Harry Herman Helmrich Sr., he passed away Saturday, July 5, 2008, in Baton Rouge, at age 81. Mr. Helmrich was a forester and a U.S. Marine veteran of World War II who proudly loved and served his country in the invasion of Okinawa. He was member of First Christian Church, Society of American Foresters, Nicholson Post 38 of the American Legion and the Cruisin Cajuns. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Yvonne Perrin Helmrich; two sons, Michael Harry Helmrich and companion Jackie Marie Nigro, and Orien Mark Helmrich and spouse, Catherine Farrar Helmrich; and three grandchildren, Christopher Mark, Catherine Rebecca and Philip Casey Helmrich. Visitation at First Christian Church, 8383 Old Hammond Highway, Baton Rouge, 70809, on Thursday, July 17, from 9 a.m. until memorial service at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the music ministry of First Christian Church of Baton Rouge.
Published in The Advocate on 7/15/2008

Edgar Eugene Adams Sr.
Adams Sr., Edgar Eugene McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, at 11 a.m.
Published in The Advocate on 7/15/2008

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

A GOOD FRIEND of mine recently sat in my office thinking out loud about whatever came to mind…

The topics ranged from his marriage (which had its share of disappointments), to his future plans for ministry, to the quality of his walk with the Lord. As the conversation continued his mood became increasingly thoughtful — not gloomy, but quietly and deeply reflective, the kind of mood no one ever feels in a fast-food restaurant.

My friend, I should point out, is a committed Christian, a gifted counselor, and an unusually clear thinker. His life has known a few trials, but nothing remarkably different from what most middle-aged men have experienced. His friends describe him as friendly, hardworking, loyal, and sincere. A few see his spontaneous fun-loving side. Everyone agrees he’s a solid, well-adjusted Christian.

After nearly an hour of reflective rambling, his thoughtful mood shifted into a profoundly sad, almost desperate, loneliness. As though talking to no one in particular, he quietly said, “I wonder what it would be like to feel really good for just ten minutes.” (Larry Crabb)

“Have you not known? Have you not heard?

The everlasting God, the LORD,

the Creator of the ends of the earth,

neither faints nor is weary.

His understanding is unsearchable.

He gives power to the weak,

and to those who have no might He increases strength.

Even the youths shall faint and be weary,

and the young men shall utterly fall,

but those who wait on the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles,

they shall run and not be weary,

they shall walk and not faint.”

~Isa. 40:28-31~

Thanks for being there to pray each day. Your prayers mean so much to so many. Also, feel free to share praises, requests, and updates so others will know how to pray.

Anna Lee

Monday

Requests from the IMB

SOMALI OF THE HORN OF AFRICA (suh-MAH-lee). In the Horn of Africa this year, rain has been scarce. The drought has claimed the lives of both humans and animals, both of which are significant among a people whose families are central to their society and whose livelihood comes in large part from their herds. In the Somali region of Ethiopia, regular power outages have resulted from a lack of sufficient hydroelectric power. In Djibouti, intense heat perpetuated during a season when rain and relief were expected. And in Somalia, the distribution of food aid is stymied by ongoing conflict. Many relief workers have been killed in Somalia this year, many organizations have disbanded their relief operations in the country, and pirates have continued to capture food shipments coming in by sea. Pray for those suffering as a result of drought and impending famine. Pray that relief organizations will be able to spread hope and the truth of the gospel as they distribute food aid in the Somali region, especially in those areas where Christian workers are not generally allowed access.

SEREER OF SENEGAL AND THE GAMBIA (suh-RARE). As she prepares for language evaluations, one of the subjects that missionary Kimberley F. has to master is to articulate the difference between her faith and the two major faiths found in Senegal. Kimberley was talking through this with O.S., a student about to graduate from secondary school who has been helping her to prepare. He is an intelligent young man who has been awarded a scholarship to a university in France. In the course of the conversation, Kimberley asked him, “O.S., what do you believe will happen when you stand before God?” He replied, “I hope that God will have pity on me. The good works I did during my lifetime must outweigh my sins; then maybe I could have a chance to enter heaven.” Voicing a prayer in her heart to God, Kimberley said, “O.S., I can tell you with all confidence that when I die, I will be in God’s presence and He will welcome me into heaven.” She continued, “I know that God is holy and I am sinful, so because of this, I cannot enter His presence on my own. It is only because I have accepted God’s gracious gift in sending His Son to die in my place that He has written my name in His book.” O.S. says that he is “curious” about this faith and wants to know more. Please pray for him as he reads the Bible on his own, claiming John 8:32 as you pray.

ZIMBABWE. Baptists in Zimbabwe are being blessed abundantly by donations from the United States through the newly formed Baptist Global Response (BGR). BGR has provided more than 100 tons of food in the form of food boxes delivered to destitute families. The boxes include staple items that could be purchased for approximately $25 U.S., but it would take more than a year’s salary for most Zimbabweans to purchase these items–if they were available in the grocery stores! One woman wept as she opened her box, “I was praying this morning, asking God what to do because I have no food to eat. Then you brought this food to me. I know God really does care about me.” An elderly man, not a Baptist, who has been surviving on one bowl of porridge a day, was overcome and could not speak for quite some time after getting his box. Everywhere people are saying that Baptists don’t just talk about God’s love, they give it away! BGR has also purchased more than $40,000 worth of essential medicines for the Sanyati Baptist Hospital and is currently working on re-vamping the hospital’s water system. Another project on the drawing board is to distribute school supplies to 25,000 needy students along with book covers imprinted with evangelistic stories and Scriptures, as well as the plan of salvation. Pray that as Baptists in Zimbabwe continue to provide for the needs of the people, many will be open to hearing the gospel, and ask that Baptists will be able to meet spiritual needs as well.

PHILIPPINES. “On site with insight” is a phrase used to explain the significance of prayerwalking. How about riding a motorcycle and a boat? Carl Miller and Pastor S in Leyte (Central Region) guided 22 men from Mindanao (Southern Region), who traveled on motorcycles, to learn about ministry opportunities on Samar and Leyte and discover where God can use them. The men hired a boat to go up river to see where God is at work among the Cebuano and Waray people of Leyte and Samar. Pray that this experience will motivate these men to effectively share the vision for a church planting movement among their home churches in Mindanao and that God will call out co-workers as a result.

KURDS OF IRAN. For several years, there has been an adequate translation of the New Testament in the Sorani Kurdish language. However, there has never been a Sorani full Bible translation. Please pray for those currently involved in this translation project. These workers have labored on this translation for many years now. There are various holdups and delays, which are causing many to grow discouraged with the project. Please pray that a deep sense of unity will come over all involved in this project, and that all involved will press on to finish the translation. Access to the whole Bible is vital to the complete and effective training of Sorani believers and leaders. It is essential for the long-term growth and development of the Sorani-speaking church. Pray that many Sorani Kurds will come to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ as a result of this Sorani full Bible. doulos@comcast.net; http://centralasia.imb.org/

JAT SIKHS OF INDIA (jut SEEKS). “Hands On” is a program for young adults to spend six months on the mission field getting their hands on the work. There are positions open for two young men to spend the spring of 2009 helping with the Jat Sikh work. It requires young men who are bold and passionate about reaching the lost. These young men will plunge into the front lines of lostness as they work with Jat Sikhs. They will share the gospel, and many of the listeners will be hearing it for the first time. Please pray for the Lord to call the right people to fill this request. Maybe He is calling you or someone you know. SouthAsiaVIM@wigtake.org; http://www.go2southasia.org/

AIDS. After her husband took another wife, she was then “chased away” from her home by her stepson and forced to find another place to live; a 13-year-old was raped by a young man living in a room in her mother and stepfather’s house and is now five months pregnant; a faithful Christian recently found out her brother had been abusing her daughter–these are just a few cases of abuse occurring in South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. For most women who find themselves in abusive situations, there is very little recourse since there are few laws to protect them. Statistics indicate that approximately one out of three women in southeastern Africa has suffered some form of sexual abuse as a child. For some who continue to deal with their situations as well as the possibility of contacting the HIV virus from their experiences, the nightmare continues. Pray for the plight of women and children who live in fear of abuse on a regular basis. Pray that laws will be passed and enforced, protecting them and allowing them to live healthy and happy lives. http://www.imb.org/AIDS/

The Marvelous Monday services tonight at 7 P.M. will be led by Bobby Eads and Tim & Becky Daniels. A nursery will be provided. There will be a time of fellowship following the service. Please try to attend.

The monthly share group will be at 6:30 P.M.Thursday at the Alford cabin. Please feel free to join in the food, fellowship, and devotional time. Call or email for directions.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
THE MOST DRAMATIC moment in human history makes for odd drama…

The hero is center-stage yet silent. His script is only seven lines long, some whispered, some groaned through gritted teeth. He gestures simply and seldom. He is still, pinned as it were to a prop from which neither the audience nor the other actors can easily unfasten their eyes. The stage is stark, the scenery sparse, the props peculiar — hammer, spikes, spear, dice. The action is minimal at best, at worst awkward. The lighting is at first too bright, then too night.

Other actors take the stage. Soldiers hammer and gamble, making light of the weighty moment. Bystanders assuage their boredom with blasphemy. Priests parrot their vain victory, ignorant of the irony: “If you come down, we will believe.” Followers weep and wonder, only a few and from afar. The rest, obvious in their absence, rest off-stage. Ultimately our eyes are drawn back to the main character, still still, and we listen to the seven lines and the sudden silence.

This old drama makes for odd drama. And we find ourselves left wondering less about the hero than ourselves. Where will we stand on the stage, with the deriders or the disciples? Will we stand fearfully but faithfully with the women or will we slip off to the wings unable to see or be seen? And what will we say when the next line is ours?

And if we should decide not to try out for this play, not to take part in this odd, old drama, it’s too late. By coming to this table we have already accepted a role, we have already joined the cast, we have already taken the stage. This meal is which we are invited reminds us that we are privileged to play a part, a part in the most dramatic moment in human history, in the great drama of redemption. (J. Lee Magness)

“And when they had mocked Him,

they took the purple off Him,

put His own clothes on Him,

and led Him out to crucify Him.”

~Mark 15:20~

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Sunday Evening

Eleanor Morris continues to battle pneumonia and complications from the medications she is taking. Pray she improves soon.

Mrs. Faye Price has been admitted to North Oaks for observation. Please continue your prayers for her.

Susan Rimes said her sister had a better week last week than the week before. Pray for Lisa as continues her battle with cancer.

Our grandson, Braden Alford, is in the emergency room of a hospital in Rome, Georgia to get staples in his head. He fell in the preschool department at church tonight. Pray Braden doesn’t have any complications from the injury.

I posted information about Mrs. Ann Chapman’s brother’s death, but never did include an obituary. I’ll include it tonight.

Charles Lee Abernathy
Charles Lee Abernathy, died at his residence in Pearl River, Thursday, July 3, 2008. He was 79 and a native of Kingsland , AR. He retired after 30 years as a Coach Operator with Greyhound Bus Lines and was a graduate of Amite High School. Visitation will be Monday, July 7, 2008 at First Baptist Church Pearl River from 9AM until service time at 12 noon conducted by Rev, Alvin Waller. Graveside Services will be Monday, July 7, 2008 at 3PM at Roseland-Arcola Cemetery in Arcola, LA conducted by his nephew, Rev. Deloy Chapman. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Pearl River and Amalgamated Transit Union. Memorial donations may be made to First Baptist Church Pearl River Building Fund, P.O. Box 729, Pearl River, LA 70452 He is survived by his wife Betty Ruth Breeland Abernathy. Daughter Barbara Jean Pack. Former son-in-law Marc Pack. Son Russell Lee Abernathy. Sister Martha Ann Chapman. Brothers James Garland Abernathy, and John Beamon Abernathy. Grandchildren William Charles Pack and Darion Eleanor Pack, 4 great grandchildren, numerous nieces, nephews, 4 sisters-in-law and 2 brothers-in-law. He was preceded in death by his parents Lucille and Hosea Abernathy. Brother William “Billy” Riley Abernathy. Sisters Nellie Jean Morris, Mary Frances Rick and Betty Sue Williamson. Pallbearers are Mickey Seale, Mitchell Rick, Jonathan Randall, Deloy Chapman, Todd Abernathy, Audie Pettit. The Honorary Pallbearers are Quincy Chapman, Mark Pack, Monroe “Buster” Rick, Jr. Michael Rick, Peter Abernathy, and Pete Williamson. Seale Funeral Service, Inc., Denham Springs in Charge of Arrangements. 1-225-664-4143
Published in The Times-Picayune from 7/6/2008 – 7/7/2008

Mrs. Patsy Smith was a long-time family friend and a champion for missions. Pray for her family and church family as they cope with her sudden death.

Mrs. Patsy M. Smith
(October 12, 1938 – July 12, 2008)

Mrs. Patsy M. Smith entered this life on October 12, 1938 and went to be with the Lord at 11:45PM, on Saturday, July 12, 2008 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond. She was 69, a native of Shreveport, LA and a resident of Amite. She was preceded in death by W. David Smith, her husband of 49 years. Mrs. Patsy was a member of the First Baptist Church of Amite where she was a vital part of the FBC Senior Adults, she served as WMU Association Director for many years, and was always a great help to FBC Youth. Visitation will be at McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Monday July 14, 2008 from 6:00PM until 9:00PM and at First Baptist Church, Amite, on Tuesday, July 15, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 1:00PM with services conducted by Rev. Mike Foster. Interment in Amite Memorial Gardens. She is survived by 3 Sons: D. Mark Smith and wife, Leigh-Amite; J. Matt Smith-Amite; and Michael A. Smith and wife, Cindy-Amite. 1 Sister: Meredith “Aunt Coot” Luman and husband, Fred-Benton, LA. 1 Brother: Jim Montgomery III, and wife, Betty-Benton, LA 6 Grandchildren: David M. Smith, Jr. and wife, Monica; Katie Smith Spearman and husband, Matt; Adam “Bear” Smith and wife, Toni Jo; Cody Alan Smith; Michael A Smith, II and Emily Catherine Smith. Also numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by Husband: W. David Smith and Parents: Haywood & Lois Montgomery. Pallbearers will be David Smith, Adam Smith, Cody Smith, Craig Coker, Greg Coker, George Smith, Matt Spearman & Andy Montgomery. In lieu of flowers the family request that donations be made to the FBC Building Fund or the Mission Fund at FBC at 117 E. Olive St., Amite, LA 70422. An On-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com. McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggin-Gentry Ford.

Lillie Catalanotto Campo
(August 6, 1916 – July 13, 2008)

Died at 2:40AM on Sunday, July 13, 2008 at St. Helena Parish Nursing Home in Greensburg, LA. She was a native and resident of Amite, LA. Age 91 years. Funeral Arrangements are pending at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, LA.

Edgar Eugene Adams, Sr.
(January 29, 1937 – July 13, 2008)

U.S. Veteran Died at 6:04AM on Sunday, July 13, 2008 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. He was a native of Kentwood, LA and a resident of Walker, LA. Age 71 years. Mr. Adams was a U. S. Navy Veteran and retired from Exxon. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 9 a.m. on Tuesday until religious services at 11 a.m. Tuesday. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Survived by 3 sons, Edgar Eugene Adams, II, Walker, Paul Lawrence Adams, Independence, Michael Anthony Adams, Walker, 1 brother, Robert Carl Adams, Holden, 2 grandsons, Vincent and Matthew. Preceded in death by sisters, Jeannette and Betty Jean, half- sister, Maxine, half-brother, Carl and Charles

FBC, Kentwood Deacons for the Week

Bubba Hulkaby
Robert Callihan

Sunday

“Therefore He is also able to save

to the uttermost those who come to God through Him,

since He always lives to make intercession for them.”

(Hebrews 7:25)

Danny Esch had a heart attack last week and is in ICU in McComb. His condition is real serious and we would appreciate your prayers for him and his family during this time. The last report I got at VBS Friday night was they are planning to do some type of heart surgery on Monday.
Margaret Huber &
The East Fork Baptist Church

Please add Jerry Fairburn to your prayer list, He is in North Oaks Hospital. Jerry cannot speak, and has had 2 strokes but they don’t know when or how close together they were. The Doctors are running test to find out what is going on. Please Keep him on your Prayer list until you hear of an update on him. I promise to email you as soon as I hear.
thanks for your prayers,
yours in Christ
Faye Carney

Dear Prayer Partners,

Pray for Jordan as he heads off to Camp McCain in Mississippi Sunday for two weeks of Army maneuvers. Pray for him and the other soldiers as they are out in the heat and humidity on the maneuvers. Pray for their safety and for good health throughout the whole period.

Thank you for praying! God bless you as you seek the Lord’s will in your lives.

Love,

Melinda

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, July 11, 2008

“But in every nation the person who fears Him and does righteousness is acceptable to Him. He sent the message…of peace through Jesus Christ–He is Lord of all,” (Acts 10:35-36, HCSB).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, praying with you for the people of Central, Eastern and Southern Africa (CESA).

So much of the CESA region is experiencing the pull of power, politics and the scramble for available resources. South Africa and the recent “xenophobic” outbursts as South Africans attacked people from surrounding countries, Kenya and the tribal tensions after recent elections and, of course, Zimbabwe and the struggle for power and land all reveal man’s basic sin nature and the desperate need for a relationship with Christ. In the midst of these struggles and tensions and as Africa redefines itself, missionaries and Baptist partners live and share the hope and purpose that comes through Christ alone.

Many displaced people of Johannesburg, South Africa have had to flee their homes because of racial violence. Pray for our missionaries living among and around these families as they seek to meet the immediate needs and “represent Christ” to them.

Thousands in Sudan have fled their homes, after battles broke out between the predominately Islamic North and predominately animistic (ancestral worship) South. Both sides desire a key town that sits on the line dividing the North and South. This hub city is the place where half of the oil pumped in this oil-rich country passes each day. Tensions are growing over the desire to control this wealthy town. Pray that the leaders of the two sides will come to lasting agreements.

* Pray that missionary testimonies will be strong and that they will impact the people with truth.

* Ask God to give governmental leaders godly wisdom as they lead the various countries of Africa through these difficult days.

* Intercede for churches as they minister in the midst of the current situation and strive to demonstrate the peace of Christ, the Lord of all.

FBC, Kentwood

No P.M. services tonight
Baby shower for Colbye Erwin at 2 P.M.
Marvelous Monday @ 7 P.M.: Bobby Eads; Tim and Becky Daniels

The Hero of the Story

No doubt all history in the last resort

must be held by Christians

to be a story with a divine plot.

– C.S. Lewis

For he has rescued us

from the dominion of darkness

and brought us into the kingdom

of the Son he loves

– Col 1:13

It’s natural for us to see life as an on-going story where we are the central character and the hero. It is our biography, happening in real-time and we have been cast in the starring role.

If we’re the hero and the star, where does that leave God in all of this? Well, He’s the author, of course, carefully weaving the situations and conditions into a plot which assures a victorious outcome for the hero. Like all good authors, He is making sure the hero overcomes all conflict in the end while the villains get the justice they deserve.

This kind of perspective can lead to some serious disillusionment. If we’re the hero, shouldn’t we have a better job, fewer problems and more adventure? Shouldn’t the story have a more interesting plot than this? Sometimes it feels like we’re not living the life we would have chosen for the hero, and that can leave us feeling bitter and disappointed. What kind of author is God, anyway?

If you assumed, as many do, that God is just the author, then we need to make a few small corrections. It’s absolutely true that God is the author, and He is indeed weaving the plot to ensure the best outcome for the hero. Yet, God is not just the author, he is also that hero. The story is about Him.

Does this mean we are some small, bit player in the drama? Not at all! We may not be the hero, but we are the next best thing. We are the hero’s beloved who has been separated from Him and locked away in a terrible dungeon. This particular chapter of God’s story is about how the hero fights and wins many battles in order to rescue His beloved. In the end, they live happily ever after.

So, here we find ourselves nearing the climax of the story. From outside the dungeon walls, God calls to us, “I have come for you. I have endured many trials, won many battles and even lost my only Son in order to rescue you. I have unlocked the doors. Come out now, and let us leave together.”

The dungeon we’re in is a peculiar one. Many of us do not know we are even in a dungeon, and some don’t want to be rescued. Inside the dungeon, we are the hero. Despite the terrible conditions, we are in control and no one can take that away from us. We fail to see that we are the hero of nothing — an empty, lonely life in a cold and desolate world. Yet, we hesitate to leave the security and eminence of our own story to join ourselves to another where we are not the Hero. And so, God waits patiently outside the walls hoping that we will at last truly desire the unimaginable love which awaits us in His story when we choose to be with Him.

It’s almost impossible to understand how anything in life is supposed to make sense when we cling to the notion that we are the hero and that God is crafting a story just for us. In that context, how could we ever hope to explain the pain, loss and suffering we all experience? When trouble comes, as it always does, part of us wonders, “How could you do this to me, God?”

The answer makes more sense when, with the proper perspective, we understand the story simply is not about us. The story is not about a happy ending here, on earth. It’s not about fame, wealth or success in our career. Those things may or may not be made available to us depending on what God is accomplishing in our lives, but they are not the hero’s reward and we are not the hero. No, this chapter is about our happy ending with God in Heaven, while the entire story is about His eternal glory.

When things don’t make sense in our lives, we should not ask, “Why me?” Knowing our proper place in the story will help us to ask instead, “What do you want me to learn about you from this situation?” and “How can I help you to accomplish your will through me?” Maintaining the right perspective will go a long way towards keeping us from the bitterness and despair which await those who demand the starring role and insist on maintaining control.

When we have the correct point of view, we will learn to trust the author and the hero. Secure in the knowledge that He loves us and has come for us, if we will only just trust Him and leave the dungeon behind, He will take us home to His kingdom. We can maintain that trust even when the particular details of the plot are difficult to understand. No matter how hard life becomes, regardless of the dangers we will face and the losses we endure, we will never stop following His voice as it guides us out of the dungeon and into His loving arms.

Be sure to make this day the Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

Be completely humble and gentle;

be patient,

bearing with one another in love.

~Ephesians 4:2 (NIV)~

Joan Hagan did not make the appointment yesterday. Please pray for her as she makes future plans.

Several people have had back problems lately. Pray for each one as they get the help needed to return to good health.

Marvelous Monday was very good last night. If you missed it, you missed a special night. The next Marvelous Monday will be led by Bobby Eads and Tim Daniels with Becky Daniels at the piano. I hope to see you there at 7 P.M.

Eugene Ott Jr.

Eugene Ott, Jr., 84, of Osyka, died July 6, 2008, at Aston Court Retirement Center in McComb.

Visitation is 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Hartman-Sharkey Funeral Home in McComb, then 9 a.m. Thursday at Osyka Baptist Church until services there at 10 a.m. The Rev. Percy Frazier and Dr. Milton Kliesch will officiate. Burial will be in Osyka cemetery.

The family requests no flowers. Memorials may be sent to Community Hospices of America, 140 N. 5th St., Suite B, McComb, MS 39648.

Additional information was unavailable.

(I didn’t know Mr. Ott well, but I really liked him. I know he will be greatly missed in Osyka.)

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

PROBABLY ALL OF us remember of the story of Abraham’s intercession on behalf of the city of Sodom (Genesis 18:16-33)…

Not only was Abraham unable to find fifty righteous souls within the city, he was even unable to find ten righteous people within the city, so God’s judgment was unleashed.

With a slight variation, if I were to ask the question, “Can you find 100 people in your city who love God?” I think you could answer in the affirmative and have little problem finding them. But now, what if I were to ask, “Can you find 100 people in your city who hate sin?” Now that may be a different proposition altogether.

I think we could easily find 100 people who love God, but I’m not sure we could find 100 people who hate sin. Today, our problem may not be so much a problem of “love,” but a lack of properly directed “hatred.” Paul said that we should “abhor that which is evil…” (Romans 12:9).

Friends, learning to love God is easy because of who He is. Learning to hate sin takes a little more work, but it’s work in which we must grow and mature. Give it some thought. (Steve Higginbotham)

“Let love be without hypocrisy.

Abhor what is evil.

Cling to what is good”

(Rom. 12:9).

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“Hear my prayer, O Lord;

listen to my plea!

Answer me

because you are faithful and righteous.”

Psalm 143:1

(Holy Bible, New Living Translation)

Update on Mrs. Marie Sims from Mary Criswell:

. . . . Marie was having problems with fluid building up in her lungs and had to be placed on a ventilator. This was an unexpected turn. Judy needs special support during this time.

Please continue to pray for Grant Matherne, six year old great grandson of Mrs. Hazel Smith, as he continues his treatments.

Ritchie, husband of my cousin Suzan in Texas, got a better report on his colon cancer than he did previously. Pray for them as Richie continues treatments.

FBC will have no Sunday night worship this month due to Marvelous Mondays which will be held at 7:00 during July.

From Mrs. Ann Chapman:

. . . . my brother, Charles Abernathy, Pearl River, LA passed away
last night. His wife Betty Ruth Breeland grew up in the Roseland &
Spring Creek area. Charles was an Amite High School graduate. He was 79.
His funeral will be Monday. Arrangements are as follows:
First Baptist Church, Pearl River, LA
Wake: 9:00 – 12:00 noon
Funeral: 12:00 noon
Burial: 3:00 pm at Roseland-Arcola Cemetery
Please pray for Betty and their children, Russell and Barbara and our
family. Our Heavenly Circle is getting larger.
God bless each of you.
Ann Chapman

Gary McNabb
(September 2, 1964 – July 2, 2008)

Gary McNabb
Gary “Suede” McNabb, 43, passed away at 8:59PM, on Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge. He was a native of Brandon, MS and a resident of Pine Grove. He was the son of Gene and Sara McNabb of Pine Grove. He was a Member of the Pipeliners Union Local #798. Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Sunday, July 6, 2008 from 6:00PM until 9:00PM and on Monday, July 7, 2008, at the Shiloh Baptist Church, Pine Grove, from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM. Services conducted by Rev. Laverne King. Interment in the Shiloh Baptist Church Cemetery. Survived by: Wife, Vicki Oliphant McNabb-Loranger, Step-Son, Chance Tycer-Loranger, Parents, Gene & Sara McNabb-Pine Grove, Sister, Gail Domingue & husband, Edward-Greensburg,. 4 Brothers, Calvin McNabb-Pine Grove, Bryan McNabb & wife, Beverly-Albany, Waylon McNabb-Pine Grove, and John McNabb & wife, Paula-Montpelier. Also survived by many nieces, nephews, & friends. Preceded in death by: Brother, Alton “Bud” McNabb. An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com. Funeral Home is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins-Gentry Ford.

Bobby McDaniel, Sr.
(Died July 3, 2008)

Mr. Bobby McDaniel, Sr. died at 11:35AM, July 3, 2008 at the Flannery Oaks Guest House in Baton Rouge. Arrangements are incomplete but the guest book may be signed at this time.

Mrs. Marie H. Wallace
(March 17, 1929 – July 4, 2008)

Mrs. Marie H. Wallace, 79, passed away at 9:15AM, July 4, 2008 at the Tangi Pines Nursing Home in Amite. She was a native of Tangipahoa Parish and a resident of Independence. Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM, Monday, July 7, 2008 until Religious Services at the Funeral Home Chapel at 2:00PM, conducted by Bro. Felix Howell. Interment in the Howell Cemetery (west of Natalbany). She was the daughter of the late Avery & Bertha Stafford Holden. She is survived by her Daughter, Margie Nell Howell-Independence, 2 Sons: Billy Roy Wallace, Sr.-Amite, Larry Wallace, I-Amite, 18 Grandchildren, 42 Great-Grandchildren, and 3 Great Great-Grandchildren. Mrs. Marie was preceded in death by her Parents Avery & Bertha Stafford Holden, Husband: Clyde Wallace, Son: Marvin Dale Wallace, Sr., Daughter: Peggy Jean Wallace Hose An on-line Guestbook is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com. The Funeral Home is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W next to Coggins -Gentry Ford.

The Meaning of the 4th in 3 Words

Baptist Press

By Rick Lance

A silly story is told about a little boy asking his father a question, “Dad, do they have the Fourth of July in England?” “Yes, oh yes, son they do have a fourth of July in England. They just don’t celebrate it.” In a way, that apocryphal teasing exchange between a father and his son summarizes the uniqueness of the Fourth of July for Americans. It is a uniquely American holiday.

The Fourth of July in all other countries is a date on a calendar, just like any other. There is no reason at all for the British or French or Chinese or Russians or Brazilians to celebrate the Fourth of July. But in America there are many reasons. I can think of at least three of them.

The Fourth of July reminds us of our history, or at least it should. It is the day set aside as the punctual moment in history when the United States of America declared its independence from the British crown. It was not the beginning of the story or the actual end of the relationship, but it is a point in time when Americans can celebrate their birth as a nation.

Every Fourth of July in Charlottesville, Va., the largest number of people on a single day take the oath of allegiance as American citizens. This must be a sight to behold, and it would have made the founders proud. They would nod and say, “Now that is America.”

Our history is not a perfect story. There was a Civil War fought between the states over differing perspectives concerning what freedom means. Lincoln would call the nation back to the Declaration of Independence to remind Americans that all people are created equal by God.

In the 20th century, following two world wars, America would examine itself the hard way and come to the conclusion that liberty and justice are for all people. There would be ugly scenes where some radicals would not accept this view as a vision of what the nation should become. Now that sentiment lingers in the minds and hearts of a fading number of citizens who cannot understand the true meaning of freedom.

The Fourth of July has come to mean more than a day to celebrate a historical event. It is more than just about history; it is a focus on liberty. The American narrative, although not a perfect one, is really about liberty and freedom. With all of our outcries of dissent today and with the personalities literally shouting at each other on talk shows, we sometimes forget that we live in a country where this kind of expression can be offered.

One night recently, I was remoting through the channels on my television and parked a few minutes to listen to the debate between two rather animated guests on a talk show and found myself amused by the sparring between them. As the program was coming to a close for this particular segment, the host thanked the guests and they both smiled at each other and shook hands as if they had just played a round of golf together.

This is just one illustration of something people outside our nation sometimes cannot understand. In America, dissent is almost a sport. Most of the time — not all times for sure — it is good-natured and a reflection of the citizens in a high-tech dialogue. The Fourth of July underscores that freedom. It is precious indeed!

For Christians, true freedom is found in Christ Himself. “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” That is a higher and holier concept of freedom we should celebrate every day of our lives. But on the Fourth of July, we can pause and thank God for liberty that comes from the laws of the land, no matter how imperfect they may be.

Yes, the Fourth of July is about history, our history. It also about liberty, our liberty, but is also is about responsibility. Reportedly, following the Constitutional Convention, the irascible old Ben Franklin was asked what kind of government had been created. He replied, “A republic, if you can keep it.” Our history and our liberty carry a heavy sense of responsibility.

Every generation has a price to pay for the liberty we enjoy. Sadly, for some it was the ultimate sacrifice of the giving of one’s life, such as in World War II, in the Pacific or in Europe. For most Americans, the price is exercising responsible citizenship such as voting. I still have trouble understanding why some people never bother to register and vote. It is almost un-American.

History, liberty and responsibility are the three words which come to my mind as we celebrate the Fourth of July. Americans aren’t better than any other people in the world. But for providential reasons, we have been blessed with a history that tells our story, a story of liberty and responsibility. Perhaps Viktor Frankl was right when he said, “Americans need a Statue of Responsibility on the west coast to balance the Statue of Liberty on the east coast.” That was one European who may have understood us better than we understand ourselves.

Rick Lance is executive director and a state missionary with the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions.

Be sure God has a special place in your activities this weekend.

Anna Lee

Friday

Suppose a brother or sister

is without clothes and daily food.

If one of you says to him,

“Go, I wish you well; keep warm and well fed,”

but does nothing about his physical needs,

what good is it?

James 2:15-16 (NIV)

Mrs. Marie Sims is doing better. She continues to be watched in ICU at North Oaks. Please be in prayer for her and her family.

Pray for Jimmy Tolar as he prepares for surgery early next week.

Dear Praying Friends,

This prayer letter will be of a different kind. We have had some great adventures lately, but we need your help in prayer. We have gone to look over the ministries and the town of Craiova; we have seen the ministries of others in the area around Craiova, and we even have a line on an interesting place to stay until December when we could move into the Wagstaff’s apartment while they are gone. We have seen all of this, but we have not discerned the Lord’s will concerning our involvement.

I awoke early this morning and went to prayer, and stopped for breakfast before continuing to seek Him, but—–‘it must have been something I ate (perhaps the aged milk on my cereal)” because I have been ill all day. Therefore, we have no answer from the Lord yet. Would you help us? Please go to the Lord on our behalf, and ask Him to reveal His will concerning this question—

“Should we leave Bucuresti and move to Craiova to involve ourselves in that local ministry? We need to be able to give an answer soon.

This is the most practical use of a prayer network that I can think of—when we need to know an answer, we join together to pray for the Lord to reveal His will. Thank you for praying and for serving Him in this way. We need you. All our love to you and your’s, Bob Craig

Update from the McKinney mission trip to Romania:

Thank you for asking! It was the most wonderful yet. Parkway has partnered with a church in Bucharest for three years to plant a church in the village of Odobesti. The small group of believers there are now like close friends so it was wonderful to worship with them, go door to door again, and then do a VBS for the children on Mon. & Tues. We got to see the renovated church building that Parkway funded. On Wed. & Thurs. we worked with another mission church in Bucharest, evangelizing in the surrounding neighborhoods and at a Roma apartment complex where they teach writing & reading (from the Bible) and play Bible games with the children. (I thought of Boyd & Jennie so much because I know they had probably been there.) Friday we went to a new village where the mission church is hoping to plant a church. They had us go door to door to visit with people to get a “feel” for the village…”ripe unto harvest.” It was wonderful to get to see God advancing His Kingdom there. . . Thanks again for your prayers. In His Love, Dianne

Delores Elaine Walker Larin
(October 23, 1932 – July 1, 2008)

Dolores Elaine Walker Larin died July 1st, 2008, at age 75. She is survived by brother and sister-in-law, Dannie E. Walker, Jr. and Iris Walker, brother Wade Walker, nieces Shannon Walker Parker, Darlene Walker Brecher, Joy Walker Garbett, Jan Walker Bennett, Donna Morgan Varnado, Angie Walker Wilson, and a nephew Bryan Morgan. She is also survived by two great-nieces, five great-nephews and a great-great nephew. She was preceded in death by her husband Julius C. Larin, Jr., her parents Dannie E. Walker, Sr. and Myrtie McDaniel Walker, a sister and brother-in-law Nancy Juana Walker Morgan and Devon Morgan. Services will be held at McKneely Funeral Home in Amite with visitation from 9:00 a.m. until time of the funeral at 11 :00 a.m. on July 3, 2008, with Father Peter Hammett and Rev. Ray Varnado officiating. Interment will be in the Walker Cemetery, Wilmer, Louisiana. Pallbearers are Lavell Parker, Ronald Brecher, Christian Garbett, Gary Bennett, Bryan Morgan, and Bart Wilson. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Holy Family Catholic Church, 1318 Bickham Street, Franklinton, LA 70438 or Lakeshore Hospice, 2659 N. Causeway Blvd., Mandeville, LA 70471.

Douglas Milton Baham
(April 21, 1942 – July 2, 2008)

Died at 11:40 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at his residence near Greensburg, LA. He was a native of Independence, LA. Age 66 years. Visitation at Red Bluff Baptist Church, Greensburg, from 9 a.m. on Friday until religious services at 1 p.m. Friday. Services conducted by Rev. Starrett Cleveland. Interment Red Bluff Cemetery, Greensburg, LA. Survived by 4 daughters, Julie O’Brien, Greensburg, Lisa Baham, Walker, Jennifer Baham, New Orleans, Tonya Baham, New Roads, 2 sons, Pee-Wee Baham and his wife, Renee, Greensburg, Mitchell Baham and his wife, Lynn, Albany, 4 step-children, Cindy Williams and her husband, Larry, Denham Springs, Donnelle Cresie, Denham Springs, Polly Gerald, Denham Springs, Eugene Baham, Denham Springs, 5 sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Mabel and Chuck McMaree, Greensburg, Dollie and Albert Frazier, Greensburg, Ella and Walter Welch, Greensburg, Albert and Shirley Rodriguez, Holden, Dewitt and Theresa Effler, Frost, 24 grandchildren, 2 great-grandchildren, and numerous step-grandchildren. Preceded in death by wife, Julia Ann Baham. McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.

Bobby McDaniel, Sr.
(Died July 3, 2008)

Mr. Bobby McDaniel, Sr. died at 11:35AM, July 3, 2008 at the Flannery Oaks Guest House in Baton Rouge. Arrangements are incomplete but the guest book may be signed at this time.

Gary McNabb
(Died July 2, 2008)

Mr. Gary McNabb died at 8:59PM, Wednesday, July 2, 2008 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge. Arrangements are incomplete but the guest book may be signed at this time.

Deacons for the Week

June 29-July 5

Larry Miller
Henry McKenkie

July 6-July 12

Jimmy Tolar
Lloyd Hayden

Nursery Workers for Sunday, July 6

Lesley Bridges
Brandy Glass
Lalia Edwards

New Sunday School Year begins Sunday, Sept. 7th

Marvelous Mondays begin at 7 P.M. each Monday in July

July 7th: Youth -> Student Life Camp

July 21-25 – Children’s Sports Camp at FBC, Kentwood

September 29-Oct. 4 – Senior Adult Trip – Jubilee Conference in Gatlinburg

July 13 – Baby shower for Colbye Erwin

Answering the Call to Minister Hope
Even with soaring gas prices – they came. In fact, they came from all across the United States, more than 250 of them, stepping out of their comfort zones, putting aside their own day to day challenges. But they’ll tell you they came because they felt “called” to do so.

From June 23-26, men and women with a compelling desire to bring hope to people in the midst of crisis gathered at the Billy Graham Training Center at The Cove in Asheville, N.C. to answer that call.

Some came from service in disaster related areas, seeking training to better provide emotional and spiritual care as a RRT Chaplain. Others came to better understand the pressing needs of hard-hit communities and to be part of the solution, as God would lead.

Extending the Arms of Mercy
Following historic floods that have left large swaths of devastation and despair across the Midwest, the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team of crisis-trained chaplains has deployed to Terra Haute, Ind., Baraboo, Wis., and Cedar Falls, Iowa. They have also deployed to Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

Chaplains began working in Terra Haute early last week, on the heels of a similar deployment to Columbus, Ind. Teams arrived in Iowa and Wisconsin on Saturday. The chaplains currently ministering in the cities are talking and praying with victims of the floods and making contact with local church and civic leaders.

“When the flood waters came, they washed away much more than possessions,” says Jack Munday, director of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team. “It’s our mission to bring a light and a hope to those who have seen nothing but darkness since the rain first began to fall.

KOMpray

(Kids on Mission Pray)

July 4, 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

SAY WHAT?

There they were-25 smiling faces looking up at the teacher. Twenty-five children learning to say “my name is” but it sounded a lot more like “mayonnaise!” These children live at the Children’s Home near Petropavlovsk in the Russian Federation. I know you’re asking it-say what? How in the world to you say Petropavlovsk? Okay. That’s what the children were thinking when their English teachers were asking them to say “my name is.”

Let’s see if we can do it-Pe-tro (like your dog or cat rowing a boat-pet-row) pav (like your pet’s foot with a ‘v’ at the end–pawv) lovsk (like…like…like I can’t think of a thing! But it’s a little like loaves of bread with a ‘k’ on the end-loavesk). Pet-row-pawv-loavesk-Petropavlovsk!

HER GIFT TO GOD

There are a lot of Chinese people living in Canada. I went to http://www.peoplegroups.info and found out that 568,453 people from China live in thirteen Canadian provinces. A province is kind of like a state here in the US.

One of those half a million Chinese is a young girl who told her mother that she wanted to give an offering at church. She’s a Christian. After adding up all her money, she had $2.24. The girl told her mom that she would give one half. How much is that? Half of $2 is $1; half of 24 cents is 12 cents-so she was going to give $1.24. Okay, enough math!

The very next week, the little girl told her mother she wanted to give another offering. Mom asked, “How much will you give this week?”

To her mother’s surprise, the girl responded, “I want to give it all!” Then she told her mom about a memory verse she had learned, “The wildflower doesn’t need to spend money and the birds-God gives them food.” Find Luke 12:22-28 in your Bible to read what Jesus said.

Chinese Christians in Canada are sometimes tempted by money and all the nice stuff they can buy. That’s just like you and me. We can be tempted to want the newest game or clothes. Pray for the Chinese Christians at Truth Baptist Church and Abundant Life Chinese Baptist Church that they will come to God with the faith of a child. Pray that all of us will be willing to “give it all” to God.

Thank God for America and the many freedoms we have. Thank Him for those so willing to fight for freedom today and in our past. May God continue to bless America. May American honor God by living for Him on a daily basis.

Anna Lee