Category: Hymn of the Day

Tuesday

Shout for joy, you heavens;

rejoice, you earth;

burst into song, you mountains!

For the LORD comforts his people

and will have compassion on his afflicted ones.

~Isaiah 49:13~

 

 

JoEllen Frohn Carruth of Greensburg had her second knee surgery yesterday.  The doctor reported that all went well.  Pray for JoEllen as she go through the recovery time.

Mrs. Velta Morris received a good report on her lymphoma yesterday.  They are so thankful!

Gail Smith will soon begin treatment for lung cancer.  Mr. Bill Morris asks for prayers for her.  She is a believer and has a strong faith.  Her home in now in the Memphis area.

 

Scripture Writing – Luke 1:46-50

Baptist Press – bpnews.com

La. Baptist Message – baptistmessage.com

 

Christmas Caroling – Tomorrow at 5 P.M. at FBC (children, youth, and adults)

Friday Morning Bible Study – John 13 – This is the New International Readers’ Version (NivR) that I discovered last Wednesday and hope to purchase today.

 

[The Birth of Jesus] In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.                                                                          ~Luke 2:1, 4-5 (NIV)~

 

“While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks”

 

Do you want to read the Bible in 2017?  The particular plan I have chosen this year reads in chronological order and has videos periodically to help us understand more.  There is a one page guide available at FBC. Kentwood.  You can call and make arrangements to get one from the office of just get one in the sanctuary.  You could also print your own form from www.jointhebibleproject.com.  I’m going to be reading from NirV.  You might want to select an easy-to-read version, but that is your choice.

 

Summer Mission Projects:  If you will be a college student during the coming year, you might want to considerer one of these summer opportunities.

https://www.imb.org/opportunities-for-summer/

 

I don’t make resolutions to a new year, but I do believe in thinking ahead and planning.  I think we can make plans for our times of service to God at any time.  I hope you do some planning ahead too.

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monday

In that day they will say,

“Surely this is our God;

we trusted in him, and he saved us.

This is the LORD, we trusted in him;

let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”

~Isaiah 25:9~

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Frank “Billy” Leroy Denham, Jr.

February 28, 1943 – December 18, 2016

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

Scripture Writing – Luke 1:46-50

 

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

 

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

because of the tender mercy of our God,

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

~Luke 1:76-78 (NIV)~

 

“There’s a Song in the Air”

 

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

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday

“Praise be to the Lord, the God of Israel,

because he has come to his people and redeemed them.

He has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of his servant David

(as he said through his holy prophets of long ago),

~ Luke 1:68-70 (NIV)~

 

 

Mrs. Norma Muse is doing better.  Please keep her in your prayers.

 

Scripture Writing – Luke 1:30-34

 

“But you, Bethlehem Ephrathah, though you are small among the clans of Judah, out of you will come for me one who will be ruler over Israel, whose origins are from of old, from ancient times.”                                                                                                            ~Micah 5:2~

“O Little Town of Bethlehem”

 

Thom S. Rainer – thomrainer.com

Waylon Bailey – waylonbailey.com

 

I’ve been posting some options for young adults to serve with the IMB.  There are many more, but today I will begin to list some opportunities for those who are older/retired.  I want to give you a number of ideas about service you may want to be involved with in the future.

ESL Teacher (ESL= English as a Second Language) . Please note that this particular article is for teachers for fall of 2016, but there is an ongoing program for ESL.

https://www.imb.org/opportunities/?id=0e0db33f-0ca5-4bb6-8b72-02d1301af399_3197e86d-9f2f-4551-a76f-2915e18069ac&ReturnURL=/opportunities-for-retirees/

 

 

Breakfast at Pine Ridge this morning at 8:00.  Donations will be used to help with a need in the community/church family.

Many churches will have Christmas musicals and/or Christmas caroling today.  May you be able to attend one and be  touched by what you hear.

Most churches have altered their schedules for the holidays.  Many churches are having a service Christmas Eve.  Some churches will not meet Christmas.  Be sure you become informed about what’s happening at your church.  You may want to attend a service at another church during this time.  Check their schedule this week.

 

The weather is nasty outside, but please don’t let it keep you away from God’s house today.
Anna Lee

 

 

Saturday

For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be on his shoulders.

And he will be called Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God,

Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace.

~Isaiah 9:6~

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Sherida “Sheri” Bridges

August 14, 1948 – December 14, 2016

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

Arvy Cutrer

January 02, 1941 – December 11, 2016

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm/obituaries/view/fh_id/10545/id/4038296
Patricia Corbin 
August 10,1960 – December 12, 2016.
Services will be at New Covenant Church Tuesday, December 20th from 5-7pm.
Scripture Writing – Luke 1:26-29
But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.”
                                                                                                                                   ~ Matthew 1:20-21 (NIV) ~
“Away in a Manger”
  • Lyrics – https://www.carols.org.uk/away_in_a_manger.htm
  • Story – https://bibleheartburn.com/2013/12/11/the-story-behind-away-in-a-manger/
  • YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AnwO_0DrpCk
  • I would like to honor Rev. Bill Ichter today.  It was Bro. Bill who taught me in the first church choir that I can remember and this Christmas carol that comes to my mind.  He later served as a music missionary to Brazil for many years.  He and his wife now live in the Shreveport area where he recently celebrated his 90th birthday.  He has generations of family defendants who have served/are serving as missionaries around the world.  He is one of my heroes!
Breakfast Buffet at Pine Ridge United Methodist Church tomorrow morning at 8 A.M.
Donations will be received for a worthy need.
IMB Need (for students) – Web Devveloper – https://www.imb.org/opportunities/?id=09fad0b3-77d0-441a-a947-132614d3ec2f&ReturnURL=/opportunities-for-students/
Jesus come to earth to provide an opportunity for us to have everlasting life.  As we celebrate that wonderful gift, let’s do something to pass His love on to others.
Anna Lee

Friday

[Mary’s Song] And Mary said:

“My soul glorifies the Lord

and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,

for the Mighty One has done great things for me

— holy is his name.

~Luke 1:46-47, 49 (NIV)~

 

Susie Sharkey’s surgery went well, but she is having trouble with pain.  Pray she gets relief today.

 

We had a great time at the cabin last night that included three new families and guests from seven different churches.  David and I are so blessed by your presence each month. The Christmas carols were a real blessing to my heart.  Mark all the third Thursdays on your 2017 calendars. 

 

Scripture Writing – Matthew 2:7-12

Mission Opportunities for Students – “One House, One Well” – https://www.imb.org/opportunities/?id=028f0699-555e-4196-bc87-1438375d12f4&ReturnURL=/opportunities-for-students/

Friday Morning Bible Study – 10 A.M. in the fellowship hall of FBC, Kentwood

 

I’m making copies of a Scripture Reading Plan for 2017 today.  This one will take us through the whole Bible in book-by-book order.  See me if you would like to have one.  Now is the time to make your plans and choose your Bible reading system for the coming year.  I hope you will follow some plan, even if not the one I have chosen, to read God’s Word daily and from cover to cover.

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net.

 

“O Little Town of Bethlehem” – I was able to share with the children at church Wednesday night how Jesus came to be born in Bethlehem rather than Nazareth, the place where He grew up.  If you had a child in class Wednesday, ask them to read Luke 2:1-7 to you.

 

Look back to the previous post to read of events/services you might want to attend.

  • Some churches will add a special Christmas Eve service.  Check around and find one that suits you and your family.  I’m sure any church you select will welcome you with open arms.
  • Although some churches will not be having services Christmas day, most area churches will, even if the schedule is different on the 25th.  If you find yourself in such a situation, check the other churches and find one that meets your need.  They will be glad to have you in their services.

Anna Lee

 

 

Thursday

My internet was down last night through this morning.  I apologize for the late start.

But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary;

you have found favor with God.

You will conceive and give birth to a son,

and you are to call him Jesus.

He will be great

and will be called the Son of the Most High.

The Lord God will give him the throne

of his father David,

and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever;

his kingdom will never end.”

~ Luke 1:30-33 (NIV) ~

 

Please pray for Bob Holmes (72) of Holden to be found soon.  He has not been seen since the end of last week.  Bob’s wife, Bonnie, is a member of the Howell family from the Amite/Roseland area.

Pray for Susie Sharkey as  she has a complete shoulder replacement today.  Pray her recovery will be complete and timely.

Pray for Kenneth Birch as he continues to recover from the last back surgery.  Pray the pain he is experiencing is aftereffects of the surgery, not something that will stay will him.  Pray for his caregivers too.

Pray for Bobbie Magee as she makes plans for wrist surgery.

Pray for John Miller.  He lost his home in a fire last week.

Buddy Waller received another good report from the doctor yesterday.  Let’s thank God for this.

Pray for Jon Carl Hammons as he faces a health concern.

Please continue to pray for George Eddie Lee, J.D. Smith, Mrs. Margaret Callihan, and Mrs. Anne Hurst who have recently had hospital stays.

Pray for the members of our community who are homebound, facing recent deaths, or without other family members during the holiday season.

 

Scripture Writing – Matthew 2:1-6 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+2%3A1-6&version=NIV

 

Baptist Press

  • “Billy Graham Statue Finds New Home at Ridgecrest”
  • “Study: Most Churches Open for Christmas”
  • “First Person: Keep the “mas” is Christmas”
  • “Missionary Reaps Harvest as a Refuge in a Foreign Land”
  • “Teen Overcomes Fear to Spread the Gospel in S. Africa”
  • More….

 

Missions – “University Trail-Blazer” – https://www.imb.org/opportunities/?id=01cccab7-76a4-4052-9184-b7128e1b2703&ReturnURL=/opportunities-for-students/

 

Important Dates at FBC, Kentwood

  • TONIGHT – Third Thursday at the Cabin – We’re expecting music from a guitar trio tonight.
  • Friday Morning Bible Study at 10 A.M. every week
  • Christmas Cantata Sunday Night at 6 P.M. (Adults and Children)
  • Christmas Caroling Wednesday night at 5 P.M. (Adults, Youth, and Children)
  • “Young” Ladies’ Birthday Party 0n the 27th at 11 A.M.

 

“The First Nowell”

 

I trust you can live this holiday season with this joyful hymn in your hearts.  If not, seek someone who has that true joy and who can guide you.  

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign:

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son,

and will call him Immanuel.

~Isaiah 7:14~

 

I received this request to share.

Please pray for Tracen Schneeweiss, who has bronchopneumonia. He is the 6 month old son of Justin and Sarah Schneeweiss.

 

Scripture Writing – Matthew 1:18-20

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

“Five Surprising Insights about the Unchurches” by Thom S. Rainer – http://thomrainer.com/2016/12/five-surprising-insights-unchurched/

 

Luke 2 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=luke+2&version=NIV

“What Child is This”

 

Reminder – Third Thursday at the Cabin – 6:30 this week!

 

Do something special to share the Christmas spirit with someone who is sad or lonely today.

Anna Lee

 

Monday

The true light that gives light to everyone

was coming into the world.

He was in the world,

and though the world was made through him,

the world did not recognize him.

~John 1:9-10~

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

February 12, 1953 – December 10, 2016

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

 

Scripture Writing – Malachi 3:1-3

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

Louisiana Baptist Message – baptistmessage.com

Waylon Bailey – waylonbailey.com

Thom S. Rainer – thomrainerp.com

 

 

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

“What Child is This”

 

Children on Mission 

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

 

Third Thursday at the Cabin

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

 

Friday Morning Bible Study 

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

 

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

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign:

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son,

and will call him Immanuel.

~ Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)~

 

Jeana Russell Lee-Newton is hopeful to be moved from the New Orleans area to Hammond before Christmas.  This is not her first Christmas to be away from her family.  Pray for all the family and all the other families not together for the holidays.

Mrs. Norma Muse is in ICU at North Oaks.  She had a slight stroke Wednesday.  Please pray for the Muse family.

Kathy Dale Forrest passed away.  She was so well known that she will be missed by many.  I’ll post an obituary when it becomes available.  Please pray for the Forrest family.

 

“The Amazing Life of Lottie Moon” – Waylon Bailey, Pastor of FBC, Covington

 

“Away in a Manger”

I trust you are teaching the little ones around you about this special baby who came to earth so long ago.

Anna Lee

 

 

Saturday

“You will all be joined together,

and you will give glory to God

the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Christ accepted you,

so you should accept each other,

which will bring glory to God.”

~Romans 15:6-7 NCV~

 

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

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

Update on Mrs. Anne Hurst:

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

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

 

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

  1. “Gatlinburg fire suspects elicit churches’ sympathy” – http://www.bpnews.net/48022/gatlinburg-fire-suspects-elicit-churches-sympathy

  2. “Journey to pastorate included jail time for Fla. pastor” – http://www.bpnews.net/48026/journey-to-pastorate-included-jail-time-for-fla-pastor

Special Dates

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

 

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

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

 

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

“Go, Tell It on the Mountain”

 

 “Go, Tell It on the Mountain”!

Anna Lee