Category: Praises, Requests, & Updates

Friday

“Don’t think only about your own affairs,

but be interested in others, too.”

~Philippians 2:4 NLT~


Update on Don Denton

Don did Ok through the night. I am sooooooo
thankful!

We will go to St. Louis later today for testing all day tomorrow.

Please pray that he will be able to tolerate the tests.

Will update later to let you know how his day went.




Update on Jimmy and Retia Dukes

“for better or for worse.
in sickness and in health.”

49 years is a long time. No matter how you cut it, even when life can change so suddenly. 49 years of marriage today, and this situation epitomizes the two above phrases common to most marriage vows. Mom and Dad are living that out.

I will admit to you, being honest – I am struggling today to be hopeful for Mom. I know I shouldn’t be. It’s just the heaviness of what I see in Dad’s eyes today and what I can’t see in Mom’s and what I can’t imagine he is thinking.

I desperately hope she wakes up. Dad told me this morning he is trying to be hopeful, and that he is trusting and surrendering, no matter what.

When they married at 18, it certainly would be a stretch to say that Dad could have envisioned he would “celebrate” his 49th anniversary in a hospital bed with his wife in another bed, five floors down, and in a coma. I saw it in Dad’s eyes this morning, and when he shook his head and sighed (thinking I didn’t notice).

Your prayers for him and Mom mean so much right now. He especially needs it today.

This morning, Erik and I toured the hospital where Mom and Dad will likely be transferred first. It is here in New Orleans in uptown. Kindred Hospital is a national franchise and listed as Fortune 500’s #1 most admired private hospital (something like that), according to a banner in the cafeteria.

Four out of five physicians recommend it (I have always wanted to say that about something :o). Seriously, every doctor and nurse where Mom and Dad are now listed it as the top hospital for Mom and Dad’s needs at the present time. We will see once Dad is ready for rehab, whether we stay here in New Orleans or transfer them both back to Orlando. Erik and I are not sure what to do there or what we will be able to do. Please pray for wisdom for us on that one. Pray for favor with all the insurance stuff, too.

Mom had surgery on her tongue around midday. It was unexpected for us, even though we knew it would need to be repaired at some point. Glad they went ahead. I’ll let you know tomorrow how that goes. Not sure yet. She had either bitten it in the accident, or it had been eroded by one of her tubes in her mouth in the ICU. Not sure which. They had to take some of it that was damaged beyond repair out and sew it back together. Sorry if that is too graphic for some. Just letting you know what’s going on.

Dad had a great morning of therapy. He has had guests all day and hopefully will take a nap here shortly. He needs that rest. It looks like he will be transfered to that other hospital for long-term care and pre-rehab stuff probably early next week. We hope to see Mom transferred soon there, too.

Erik flew out just a few minutes ago. He is heading home this afternoon. He will be back next Friday. I will fly home next week for a few days. I am pumped that he will get to see my awesome nephews and his sweet wife! I will miss him, though. We’ve been leaning on each other a lot. I am more than blessed with my brother. Not only has he always been one of my best friends, but he has lived out and taught me the ways of Jesus like no other. I love him so much.

How awesome, though, has “the church” been in all of this. You all have loved us more than we could have ever imagined through this. I honestly can’t put into words how grateful we are. And I was blessed this morning again in several ways. With Erik leaving for the first time since the accident, Chris Mayberry (one of my closest friends) flew up from Orlando to be with me for two days. And, he brought several monetary gifts from some very generous and loving folks back home in Orlando as well as from Jackson, TN (they had mailed it to our home). He also brought underwear – pretty important.

To my love, Jen – I was overwhelmed watching my Dad see Mom again for the first time since the accident. I pray we will see 49 years together, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health, no matter what. And I hope the same for all of the rest of you who are married. Cherish today. Relish in the blossoming beauty of your marriage. Forgive now if you need to. Reconcile and live in the abundance of the relationship most like what God desires with us. And love, selflessly, no matter what.


KOMpray

(Kids on Mission Pray)

http://www.imb.org/main/pray/page.asp?StoryID=6686&LanguageID=1709

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
WHY TELL PEOPLE to keep quiet about the most stupendous, incredible, world-shaking thing that had happened in their lifetime–that God had come down into human flesh and lived among them like a typical man…?
Because it wasn’t yet Jesus’ time to die: His ministry was not yet complete. And He knew how the jealous religious leaders would react–precisely the way they did: they sought to kill Him.
You see, Jesus’ identity was the stick that broke the camel’s back for the people who most wanted Him gone (cf. Matthew 26:59-68). His statements that He was the Son of God were what the Jews decided was the final proof of Jesus’ guilt before the Law: they claimed He blasphemed (“cursed, derided, slandered, and libeled”) God by claiming to be the Messiah, the Son of the living God. They could not deal with. He was everything they believed the Messiah wasn’t. And he was nothing they thought the Messiah should be.
Nothing inspired more derision, hatred, and revulsion toward Jesus than His claim to be God incarnate. And nothing brings greater disdain than that claim today. You can call Jesus a good man, a great prophet, a fine leader, perhaps the greatest man who ever lived. But utter the words “He wasn’t just a man, He was God,” and you may be in for a fight.
When Jesus asked His disciples, “Who do you say I am?” they answered the expected ways: “a great prophet, Elijah, etc.” But Peter said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (cf. Matthew 16:13-16). Jesus then told Peter this was the “rock” on which He would build His church. The “rock” wasn’t Peter himself, but rather the confession of Jesus being the Son of God.
Ultimately, that’s the line of demarcation for everyone. “Whom do you say He is?” is the question each of us must answer. How we answer determines where we will spend eternity. (Mark Litteton)
He said to them, “But who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15).


I hope you took time to read KOMpray. If not, please do so now or later today. Your heart will be touched.

Have a fantastic Friday!
Anna Lee

Thursday

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,

always in every prayer of mine

making request for you all with joy,

for your fellowship in the gospel

from the first day until now.”

~Philippians 1:3-5~

Pray for Mrs. Pat Gill as she has surgery at North Oaks late this morning. She and her family will be most appreciative of your prayers.

Pray for Beverly Parson as she has knee surgery.

Update on Don Denton

Just a quick update:

Well last night was a rough night for Don he was awake allot with headache pain and again did not get out of bed until mid morning. His headache pain is increasing.

Then this afternoon he seemed somewhat better, he even went to physical therapy and talked with some friends this evening for a while.

But at the same time feeling sick. He has not eaten today and tonight was sick to his stomach and could not keep down his pills at bedtime. AT one point he could not stand up the dizziness was so bad. Then he seem to get a little better.

So, tonight has been rough. I am prepared to take him into the ER in Springfield if needed.

I will post first thing in the morning, Thrusday morning. to let you know how he did through the night.

If you don’t hear from me you will know what has happened.

Pray, Pray, pray.

love,
Diane

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
MY SWEET, BEAUTIFUL wife (some 8,000 miles away from me), posted that the very house in which she was typing on the computer had been an unwitting host to a black mamba just three days ago…
Just reading her note sent a shiver down my spine. The black mamba is my biggest stumbling block on mission trips. (Lord willing, I will return for a sixth time to Tanzania this fall). In those times, I have seen two of these vile creatures. Both “sightings” were in 2005, on a Safari for Souls campaign in Moshi, and, thankfully (!!), both were smashed flatter than a pancake.
Why am I so afraid? Consider what National Geographic says: “Traveling at 20 kilometers per hour, they are one of the fastest snakes in the world. They can reach lengths of 14.2 feet, taller than two NBA players combined.” Oh, and the fact that their fangs are filled with neuro- and cardiotoxins and that they are very willing to repeatedly strike, my mind is made up about these cuddly creatures. They are also described as a “nervous” snake, and when they threatened, they get downright aggressive.
Discussing this “snakophobia” of mine with a good friend, he made the remark that this world and the church would be a far different place if we reviled and hated the one called “that serpent of old”. (Rev. 12:9) as much as Indiana Jones (and I) hate snakes. What a great point! If we understood the poison of his lies (cf. John 8:44), his appetite for us (cf. 1 Pet. 5:8), and his slick ways of deceiving and lying (cf. 1 John 5:19; John 8:44), we would “flee” from him like he was a highly upset mamba. His potential threat is eternally greater than even the world’s deadliest snake.
Yet, the Bible tells us repeatedly that, with God’s aid and strength, we can stand up to him and make him flee from us (James 4:7; 1 Pet. 5:9). But, when we are lulled into complacency or guided by worldly thinking, we are allowing that serpent of old to do deadly damage to us! How do we know whether or not this has occurred in our lives? Check your morality, ethics, activities, interests, desires, and goals. Are they leading you toward the Lord or away from Him? If the answer is the latter, it should make you shudder like any trembling a slithering serpent can induce. (Neal Pollard)
“Let Satan should take advantage of us, for we are not ignorant of his devices” (2 Corinthians 2:11).
Thanks for being there to pray each day. Your prayers mean so much to so many,
Anna Lee

Wednesday Afternoon #2

Get some tissues ready to ready the following update on Jimmy and Retia Dukes. You heart and emotions will be stirred. Thank God for the progress both Jimmy and Retia have made. Thank God for two sons who dropped everything else to be with their parents. Thank God for the good care and support the family has received. Please continue to pray for them. Tissues ready?

Their first date was to an Oak Ridge Boys concert. He was 17. She was 18. They both lived in Jackson, MS at the time. Whether they held hands that first date, I don’t know. But I will never forget watching Dad lean over, groan in pain, touch Mom’s hand, and sigh with satisfaction when he held hers this morning.

The morning was very tough, but very special. Dad was emotional, roller coaster of tears and smiles. The therapist was amazing, just like he has been. He and his colleague got Dad in the “Trauma Chair” and settled. They did a few resistance exercises, and then we waited.

Yesterday, we had been given clearance for the mtg to happen, but they had to call down to let them know and make sure the nurses weren’t doing anything with Mom at the time. They were ready. So, we wheeled Dad in his “Trauma Chair” to the elevator down five floors to the ICU.

It was really special the expression on the doctors’ and nurses’ faces who were in the halls of the ICU who knew of the situation. You could tell their heart has been touched by the love that so many of you have poured out on our family and by the story of this unique situation.

It was really special when the nurse who had most taken care of Dad walked over to welcome him. It was really special when one of the doctors that has been most helpful to Erik and me welcomed us.

It was really special when Dad saw her.

I wonder what went through his mind. We haven’t had much of a chance to talk yet about it. When it was all over, we got him back up to his room for a nap. He was tuckered out. I look forward to debriefing about the whole thing.

But, what I saw in his eyes wasn’t a devastating flood. Nothing like the waters of Katrina that his therapists and nurse had just told us about up in his room before we came down. They were here after the storm, stuck in what used to be called Charity Hospital for nearly two months. They recounted stories of treating victims, waiting for promised rescue boats that came too late, taking refuge from crazed gunmen intoxicated by momentary power and the vacuum of city authorities. Two months, then rescued from the turmoil.

That’s not what I saw in Dad’s eyes. I saw tears of relief. An expression on his face that demonstrated anxiety answered. For ten-plus days now, he had longed to see Mom. And there she was.

No tubes hiding her face. Since they had put in the tracheotomy and the PEG tube, those tubes were gone. No neck collar. The MRI yesterday cleared her of any neck fractures, so they removed the neck collar. Breathing on her own. Small, sudden breaths, but they were her breaths. I was so thankful for how she looked, because Erik and I were rocked the morning of April 5th when we first saw her. She looks so much better now. Still non-responsive, except for pain reflexes. But it sure does seem like she hears us. Her expression changes.

Like when she heard Dad’s voice.

His voice is such a soothing voice. He told her he loved her. That we are all here. That we can’t wait for her to wake up. That he can’t wait to see her smile again.

Then, he leaned up, groaned a little, and reached for her hand. The nurse pulled the sheet back to reveal a swollen hand with two pronounced blisters. But he took it anyway. And he spoke gently to her.

It was a very special morning, and an unforgettable meeting between two people who will have been married 49 years tomorrow.

Thank you to all who prayed for that moment. Thanks to all who are praying for Dad as he reflects on it today and in the coming days. He said again when we got back to his room, “I just continue sensing the Lord whispering, ‘Peace.’ And I know He holds us and will act in His time. However He heals her, I trust Him.”

He is with three friends right now while I write this. Three of his friends from Orlando flew up this morning to see him. They took us to lunch while he napped, and now they are probably laughing with him. He has to hold his left side from the broken ribs, but Dad has been laughing and making Erik and me laugh. And that’s a good thing.

What I wouldn’t give to hear Mom laugh. Those of you who know her well have probably heard her get started in a giggle that leads to an uncontrollable cackle. I pray that day will come.

Keep praying for logistics to be worked out. Lots going on with that right now.

By the way – HUGE PRAISE. I mentioned in one of our first posts a friend from Orlando whose daughter has been waiting for a heart transplant. We found out a little bit ago that there is a heart available. The surgery should be tonight. Please pray for Gracyn DenBesten and her family. It would be AWESOME if that worked out for her! Love you Kris and Robin. Praying your little girl will receive her new heart tonight.

Erik and I love yall so much. We can’t thank you enough.

Wednesday

“Let the peoples praise You, O God;

let all the peoples praise You.”

~Psalm 67:5~

Holly K. was recently able to participate in distributing 1,500 Operation Christmas Child boxes in West Africa. Pray that the 1,500 children who received the boxes will soon receive something much greater than the contents of a box. Pray the same thing for children around the world who also received boxes. Thank God for each box that was prepared and the time and money that goes into this project each year.

Continue to pray for the families who have recently lost loved ones. This picture of “Miss” Bernice was posted yesterday on McKneely’s site. I hope you remember fond memories as you view the picture.

Bernice Monts Simmons

Alice Fairburn Picou
Alice Fairburn Picou died at 4:20 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2009, at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. She was 49, a native of Independence and a resident of Amite. Graveside services will be held at Lebo Cemetery in Chesbrough on Wednesday at 11 a.m., conducted by the Rev. Willie Westmoreland. Survived by a daughter, Ashley Fairburn, Amite; two sisters and brothers-in-law, Shirley and Alan Simmons, and Cathy and Dudley McIntyre, all of Amite; two brothers, Luther Warren Fairburn Jr. and wife Glenda, and Jerry Patrick Fairburn and wife Jani, all of Tangipahoa; five nieces and nephews, Charles, Lacey, Robert, Regina and Jamie; and two great-nieces, Hallie and Abigail. Preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Robertson; parents, Luther W. Sr. and Louvernia Lebo Fairburn; brother-in-law, Richard Crotwell Sr.; and nephew, Richard Crotwell Jr. Arrangements by McKneely Funeral Home, Amite. For an online guestbook, visit www.mckneelys.com.

FLEEING TEMPTATION

This story was told by a chemistry teacher at school. A female student wanted to make some potassium hydroxide solution (aqueous) and decided to throw a large lump of potassium into a bucket of water.

Out of the corner of his eye, her professor observed what she was about to do and hurried toward her. After confirming what she was intending to do, he asked her to first stir the water in the bucket for five minutes before adding the potassium.

She was puzzled and asked the purpose of this action. “It will give me time to get away,” said the professor.

There are times when running away is the proper response. In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul said to “Flee sexual immorality” (I Cor. 6:18) and “Flee from idolatry.” (I Cor. 10:14). Fleeing is especially important when we encounter temptation. We sometimes make the mistake of putting ourselves in situations where we are tempted, thinking that we are strong enough to handle it. Sometimes we are, but often we are not.

Remember when Joseph was tempted by Potiphar’s wife? She “cast longing eyes on Joseph and she said, ‘Lie with me.’” (Gen. 39:7). Joseph refused to commit adultery with her, but she persisted to the point that finally Joseph needed to flee. “He left his garment in her hand, and fled outside.” (Gen. 39:12).

There may not be a Potiphar’s wife in your life, but there is likely some temptation which you find difficult to resist. If alcohol is your temptation, flee. Make a decision to avoid people and places where alcohol will be readily available. If sexual impurity with a boyfriend or girlfriend is a temptation, flee. Make a decision to avoid situations where you are alone and the temptation is stronger. If inappropriate use of your money is a temptation, flee. Stay away from the mall!

The worst mistake any of us can make is to think that “I can handle it. I know this is a strong temptation but I won’t give in. I’ll hang around close, but I won’t cross the line.” The real question we need to consider is this: “Who (or what) do we want to stay close to?” Because fleeing is not just running away from something; it is also running toward something.

“But you, O man of God, flee these things and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, gentleness.” (I Timothy 6:11)

Father, more than anything in this world I desire to be close to you. Help me to flee from those things which tend to pull me away from you, and draw me close. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Have a fantastic day!

Anna Lee

Tuesday Evening

Dukes Family

This morning was a great morning! Very busy and very meaningful.

Erik and I got to eat breakfast with our Uncle Danny (Dad’s brother) about 7am (central time). He has meant so much to Dad and Erik and me during this time. It was great grabbing a quick bite with him and our long-time family friend, Sheila Taylor. We ate grits and eggs in the Seminary cafeteria. Lots of Trustees on campus right now for Trustee mtgs, and all who knew us hugged our necks and let us know they are praying. Meant a lot.

We stopped and got Dad a tall decaf pike’s place. He appreciated that. Sheila packed him some grits and eggs, too, which he also appreciated.

We got there, and the physical therapists were already in Dad’s room. Dad really likes the therapist. John is his name, and he is super! Very patient and very encouraging and very direct with Dad. Means a lot.

The goal this morning was to get Dad into what they call a “Trauma Chair.” Well, there was one other goal. I won’t spend too much time on it, but Dad had not yet had a “BM” since the accident (at least that he recalled). So, before the goal of getting him on the trauma chair, the goal was to get him comfortably on a “potty chair” to express himself. Maybe this is too much info, so forgive me for sharing it if it grosses you out. I am only sharing this part of the day, because I have to confess I take for granted getting to get up and WALK to a potty. He couldn’t. Can’t put weight on his legs yet. And it had been a bit of a stress. But the therapist got him situated in the bed. Then, we slid him over onto the potty chair. SUCCESS!!!

Ok – on to the bigger goal of getting in the “Trauma Chair.” It’s this really cool chair that lays flat and allows you to slide patients who can’t stand or transfer weight onto it. Then, you sit them up. The back comes up and the legs slide down. Dad is in it in the picture at the top of the post. He sat in it for two hours. It tuckered him out. The therapist and Erik and I slid him back into the bed after that time, and he pretty quickly fell asleep for a nap.

We were thankful for the successful “Trauma Chair” experience. It is a big deal, because this had to happen for Dad to be wheeled down in the “Trauma Chair” to see mom. Otherwise, we couldn’t get him down there.

Well, we got the word today that tomorrow morning, assuming he has another successful transfer to the “Trauma Chair,” Dad will get to see Mom!!!

Please pray for this time. I know it will be great for Dad. He has been longing for it since he was “with-it” enough to realize all that is going on. I know it will be very meaningful. Their 49th anniversary is Thursday. He misses her. He told Erik and me, “I just want to see her. And I want to see her smile again one day.” I know it will be tough, too. The randomness of this kind of accident is hard to swallow. Why didn’t that guy swerve away from them. There was no other traffic. There is no explanation. It is what it is.

And it will be great for Pop to see Mom. I am so thankful Erik was able to stay until Thursday this week. He was going to go home for a few days Monday to work in the clinic. But he stayed. And this is the reason why – to see Dad see Mom.

Pray for us also with regard to logistics. Erik and Danny and I, along with the help of some close family friends, are working out logistics with health insurance and benefits and where we hope they will be transfered to so that they can be together some for rehab. They never show this part of it on ER. It’s reality.

Another piece of news that is not final but hopeful is about where Mom and Dad may end up next for care. There is a facility that they both may end up in together. Dad can’t do rehab yet, except for passive and resistance stuff. And Mom can’t either. So, there is a facility that would work for both of them until either are ready for rehab. Please pray for that to work out. It would be special to see them there together.

Erik and I are still a bit in that stage of “is this really happening.” We have been eating togetehr pretty late after we leave the hospital and having a debrief time. Some of it simply being still and silent. Some of it sharing thoughts and frustrations and joys. My brother and I have been best friends always. This time has been bitter-sweet. We wish it weren’t happening, but it is sweet to be together. I love him deeply.

And we just want to see Mom’s brown eyes again and hear her sweet voice and listen to her be her encouraging, no-nonsense self.

There are some tests today they are doing on Mom that will help determine what’s next for her. An MRI on her neck and head. Her neck still has not been cleared. And another CT on her brain. We’ll see how it goes and let you know.

Thanks again for your prayers. We love you and appreciate you. Hoping tomorrow will be another great and meaningful day.

Tuesday

“For the wages of sin is death,

but the free gift of God is eternal life

through Christ Jesus our Lord.”

~Romans 6:23 NLT~

The music provided by the Louisiana College Chorale was of exceptional quality. If you missed the performance last night, you missed something special.

Please pray for Larry Watts and his family. Larry is home at home.

Monday night (9:59 EDT) update on Don Denton

Don was able to go to church this Sunday and for us to attend as a family was a special event. We love our church family they have been there for us even when we have not been able to be there.

They are precious people of God and we are honored to be a part of this special gathering of christians. They have been “light” to us and have continued to walk with us, love us and support us in a way that is beyond what we could have imagined. We are so grateful!

After church Don was pretty tired and wore out, he came home and slept.

What is hard for people to see is that Don is dizzy all the time. I am amazed that this man can get up everyday with his dizziness, nausea and headaches and push through that to do life as best as he can.

He looks good and he is getting stronger and one would never no that he is so sick by just looking at him.

What I love to watch is that he continues to teach our son, Joshua about the unconditional love of God too.

I am humbled to watch this father-son relationship in such a way that models Christ. I am blessed to experience this. It can be tough for a man to be vulnerable with their son. Especially with our western culture mindset that men should not show emotion. When one is raised in such a way, it is hard to break that cycle.

I love that our pastor emulates that love toward his church. It is precious to hear our pastor tell us that he loves us. We are ministered deeply to. That is how God intended it to be.

When life takes away what one knows life as. It can change you and how you look at life. Children don’t understand that, they can’t.

We do our best to take each day and make the best of it, yet it is hard when the rubber meets the road to rise above that. We are human. Thank God he is faithful. Thank God we can admit our mistakes and He loves us in such an amazing way.

Don tapered down to 7.5mg. today. He has been more sick today and has needed to rest more. He did go to physical therapy and it took allot out of him.

Well, I still need to do dishes. We continue to pray that Don will make it just another 11 days till he is off of steroids.

WE will leave Thursday late afternoon to drive up to St. Louis. Don will have testing all day on Friday. We will drive back home.

Then Don will see Neurosurgeon on the 28th. Hopefull surgery will happen a few days after. We will not know until that time.

If the sun is shining tomorrow and it is warm enough to get outside, Josh and I will work in our little garden. With all the cold weather still lingering, our vegtables have not thrived as well as I would have liked.

Thank you so much for praying for us. I believe Don has not relapsed because of prayer. I believe it.

Bless you our family and friends.

Diane

Funeral services for Reuben Lee will be at 1 P.M. today at McKneely’s in Kentwood.

Funeral services for Mrs. Bernice Simmons will be at 11 A.M. at Line Creek Baptist Church. “Miss” was probably one of the best know and most loved ladies in the Kentwood area. She will be greatly missed by family and friends. Everyone has special memories of people who have moved to their heavenly home. Our favorite memory of “Miss” Bernice is that she ALWAYS asked about out children BY NAME. That was so special to us!

Jesse Dean’s sister, Patsy, is hospitalized in North Oaks. Please be in prayer for her.

Continue to pray for Mrs. Frances Bell as she begins the rehabilitation process for the broken hip.

We have a third Thursday this week. There will be a meeting for food, fellowship, and Bible study this Thursday at the cabin at 6:30 P.M.

KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
SEVERAL YEARS AGO, my family was camping in the mountains of Colorado…
We have arrived there late in the afternoon, and we picked out a nice spot close to a beautiful river. While I was attending to the chores of setting up and organizing our camp, the children went off to play.
As the sun began to set, we started rounding up the children and hustling them back into our campground before it got completely dark. Our four-year-old son, Scott, was missing. The river was making so much noise that my calls were drowned out, and its roar was a constant reminder of danger.
Panic began to build. Where was he? Had he wandered out of the campground? Had he wandered up or down the river? The last time I saw him, he was playing at the edge of the water with a little boat he had made.
By now you could barely distinguish the camp as the rays of the setting sun were further blocked by the forest. A chilling reality gripped me. I only had a few minutes before darkness made my search nearly impossible.
What should I do?
First, I want to tell you some of the things I did not do.
I did not organize any classes on how to find lost children.
I did not hold any rallies to enlist volunteers to help me.
I did not wait until someone came along with was better qualified than I to search.
I did not fail to do anything for fear of doing the wrong thing.
Now, I want to tell you what I did do.
I acted immediately.
I ran around the campground.
I dashed up and down the river.
I called Scott’s name, in spite of the roaring river.
I searched the churning waters.
I stopped total strangers to describe him, and they joined in the search.
Nothing else mattered for that period of time. Finding him was my top priority.
After running all over the campground and up and down the river, I still could not find him. Not knowing what else to do, I decided to go back to camp to figure out what to do next. Scott and I arrived at the same time. He was walking nonchalantly into our campground, oblivious to everything; I was still on a dead run.
An old preacher once said, “If a man has a soul, and he has, and if that soul can be won or lost for eternity, and it can, then the most important thing in the world is to bring a man to Jesus Christ.” (Don Humphrey)
“For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save
that which was lost.”
~Luke 19:10~

Make a difference in a someone’s life today.

Anna Lee

Monday Afternoon

Jimmy and Retia Dukes

Monday, April 13, 2009 12:26 PM, EDT

Hope you all had a HAPPY EASTER!!! It began very well for us. Erik was able to talk to Erin and the kids via phone. I was able to iChat with Jen and the kids. I got to see their beautiful smiles and see their wonderful Easter duds that Nana (Jen’s mom) got them. Thanks Nana.

We were very appreciative of Clay and Carol Corvin – Mom and Dad’s long-time friends – who invited us over for Easter lunch at their home. It was special. Great food and great company. Their daughter and son-in-law and two granddaughters were there, too. One of the granddaughters connected especially with Erik. It was fun watching a father of four boys play with a little princess :o)

Erik and I were very encouraged yesterday by music. We played Phil Wickham’s song “True Loved Died” and Paul Baloche’s song “Our God Saves” on the way to the hospital. Appreciate those songs a lot. Two lyrics in particular:

“When blood and water hit the ground, walls we couldn’t move came crashing down. We were free and made alive the day that true love died, the day that true love died.” (Phil Wickham)

“Our God saves. Our God saves. There is hope in His name. Mourning turns to songs of praise. Our God saves. Our God saves.” (Paul Baloche)

We also played Mom the song “Wonderful, Merciful Savior,” as sung by Selah. Very special. “Who would have thought that a Lamb could rescue the souls of men.” And He did. I know He can touch Mom and awaken her, too.

I got to pray with the guys who led our worship gathering back at home yesterday morning. That meant so much. Thank yall for calling and letting me pray with you before things began there.

We spent most of the day with Mom and Dad at the hospital. We really appreciated the visitors who came by. Chuck and Rhonda Kelley – thanks for the Easter Gold Brick. Dad really enjoyed it and enjoyed your company, so. Thank yall so much for how you continue to love on Mom and Dad.

Erik and I got to the hospital yesterday and saw Dad first. He had had a rough night Saturday night. Lots of pain and discomfort trying to sleep. Like he got hit by a truck or something. Seriously, pray he will get rest and peace every night. Those are lonely times for him, too. He longs to see Mom. We are trying to work it out with the doctors and nurses for him to see her by Thursday – their 49th anniversary. Today, they said they thought he probably would be able to if we can get him in a “Trauma Chair” to roll him down there.

One thing that was really fun yesterday, and indicates that Dad is progressing, I have to tell you about. Those of you who know Dad know that he kind of likes coffee. Starbuck’s sent him a Gold Card before they even released the Gold Cards. Makes me laugh. Anyway, he really wanted some coffee. It had to be decaf. A friend, Tom, went and got him some. Because of his neck and his neck collar, he had to drink it out of a straw. Now, not only would Dad never drink coffee out of a straw, he doesn’t drink anything out of a straw. But he did. Proof is in the picture in this journal entry!!! Whatever it takes to enjoy some Starbuck’s.

Dad’s brother works at the Radio Station here. They have mentioned Mom and Dad multiple times. Danny (Dad’s brother here) told us he has been blown away by the response of so many people praying and sending their love – many of them don’t even know Mom and Dad or know them very little. BIG THANKS to Uncle Danny for all he has done for Erik and Mom and Dad and me during this time. I know he is hurting, too.

Today (Monday), Dad continues to get better. The therapist came in this morning and worked with him some. Did some resistance exercises with his legs. He got Dad to sit up on the edge of the bed. He still can’t put weight on his legs and won’t be able to for at least 5 to 8 weeks, they are saying. However, the therapist was really pleased. They are going to fit him for a more comfortable, long-term neck collar, too. He is resting today and in good spirits. He continue to think about Mom a lot.

Yesterday, Mom was about the same. They told us they were going to put in a tracheotomy and the PEG tube we mentioned in an earlier entry. She got bumped for the procedures for some incoming traumas. There were several shootings in the city yesterday. So, the day was pretty much the same for her. Erik and I sang and prayed and wept over her. Special time of worship.

Early this morning they did put the tracheotomy and PEG tube in. She looks more like herself and is less likely to get infections and injuries now from all the tubes and stuff she had. She has been breathing on her own since the accident, with only occasional help from the machine. Now, she is breathing on her own through the tracheotomy. That’s awesome!

She is still in a deep coma, but the neuro-surgeon said she is seeing some progress. They think within the next week or two they will move her to a long-term acute care facility. Please pray that we can work it out to move Mom and Dad to facilities near each other. The two best options for them, respectively, happen to be right across the street from each other. That would be great.

So many of you had communicated that you were joining in on the prayer that Mom would wake up on this Easter Sunday. Well, she didn’t. That’s a bummer. But thanks to all who prayed that she would.

We are trying to stay positive for her. I am going to post on my blog some thoughts I have had over the last week later today or tonight. I will let you know when I do in case you want to read it.

It’s been hard, but it’s been good to see the church being the church. Thanks for loving our family.

Because He lives, we can face tomorrow.

Reuben A. Lee
(January 28, 1941 – April 11, 2009)

Born on January 28, 1941 in Liverpool, LA and a resident of Kentwood, LA. He died on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at his home. Survived by his companion, Sara Walker, sons, Chris and Jim Lee, Amite, and Justin Lee, Kentwood, grandchildren, Mandy and Kristi Lee, Kaitlyn Newman, Cassie Knight, Peyton Walker, and Weslynn McElwee, sisters, Ethel Felker and her husband Neal, and Georgia Yarborough, and a brother, Pete Lee and his wife, Sandra, and his former wife Mary Lou Lee, 2 sisters-in-law, Patsy Lee, Greensburg, and Sarah Lee, Zachary. Preceded in death by his parents, Hardy and Zylpha Allen Lee and brothers, James N. Lee, Ray Lee, and Luther Lee. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 10 a.m. on Tuesday until services at 2 p.m. Tuesday. Burial at Centre Cemetery, Greensburg, LA.

Monday

“Let the peoples praise You, O God;

let all the peoples praise You.”

~Psalm 67:5~



Mrs. Faye Price was scheduled to go home for a little while yesterday. Celebrate this major step with the Price family.


Mrs. Margaret Huber is waiting for lab reports which should be available tomorrow. Pray for her and her family as she recovers from surgery.


Pray for the Simmons family as they prepare for the wake and funeral celebration for “Miss” Bernice. The wake is from 5-9 P.M. tonight at her home. The funeral will be at 11 A.M. tomorrow at Line Creek Baptist Church.

Jeremy Thomas Dover
(November 28, 1980 – April 11, 2009)

Jeremy Thomas Dover

Jeremy Thomas Dover a beloved husband, father, son, brother, & friend passed away at 9:34AM,on Saturday, April 11, 2009 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, Baton Rouge. He was 28, a native of Independence and a resident of Pride, LA.

Jeremy is survived by his wife, Kristin Kinchen Dover, Pride; a daughter, Logan Kinchen Dover, Pride; a son, Gabriel Thomas Dover, Pride; parents, Thomas Edwin & Nita Kay Sowell Dover, Greensburg; a sister, Heather Dover, Greensburg; mother-in-law, Beverly Kinchen, Albany; father-in-law, Billy Kinchen, Pride; brother-in-law, Joshua Kinchen, Albany; numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family & close friends.

Preceded in death by maternal grandparents, Joseph C. & Anita Sowell; paternal grandparents, Alvis & Maudie Dover; 2 uncles, Joseph C. Sowell, III and Joey Dover.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Tuesday, April 14, 2009 from 6:00PM until 9:00PM and on Wednesday, April 15, 2009 from 11:00AM until Religious Services at the funeral home Chapel at 12:00NOON.

Interment at a later date.

In lieu of flowers family request donations be made to Jeremy Dover Benefit Account, %Bank of Greensburg, PO Box 10, Greensburg, LA. 70441

Family would like to thank the OLOL Trauma Neuro Critical Care Unit.

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

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W behind Grand Prix Car Wash and Bond Eye Clinic.



Don’t forget the choir from Louisiana College. They will have a one-night stop in Kentwood. See you at 7 P.M. Expect some beautiful music!

Gibbie McMillan is leading revival at Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. I was told twenty-one people made professions of faith yesterday morning. The revival continues through Wednesday with services at 7 P.M. each night. You are invited to attend.
KneEmail
“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).
Mike Benson, Editor
LAST YEAR WHILE hiking in the mountains of North Georgia, I came across a very large unusually shaped brick…
The brick was almost completely covered in green, fur-like vegetation. After I scraped the green goop away, I carefully inspected the brick and discovered that it was a brownish-yellow color instead of the traditional red. I also discovered some unusual markings and identification numbers on the brick. When I returned home, I was able to do some research and found that this particular type of brick was used in the early-to-mid eighteen hundreds to construct smelting ovens. These ovens melted and purified gold after it was mined from the mountains of North Georgia and Carolina. The purpose of the melting process was to remove any impurities that were attached to the gold.
THOUGHTS: God compares the difficulties and trials that each of us must experience in our lives to the purification or smelting process that gold goes through in order to become valuable. It is kind of like the refining process that the old yellow brick had been a part of over a hundred years ago. The brick had actually facilitated the fire’s ability to remove impurities from the gold after melting, and thereby increased its value. And more than likely some of the very gold which was purified in that particular type of brick smelting oven is still around today, possibly in the form of antique jewelry that has been passed from one generation to another. (Mitch Temple)
KneEmail: “The genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:7



Have a wonderful day!
Anna Lee

Saturday Evening

Dukes (4:51 P.M. Saturday)

Erik and I are in Pop’s room with him right now. He is eating strawberry jello and acting more and more like himself. We went to McAllister’s Deli and got him a yummy baked potato. He ate about a 1/3 of it. He was thankful for non-hospital food, which is funny cause he’s only been able to actually eat it for two days now. I imagine we’ll be grabbing take-out for a while to come.

Those of you who know Pop know that he is pretty picky about food and very selective of the great food he normally eats. How can he help it having been in New Orleans for so long. His favorite restaurant is here, and Erik and I intend to take him to Drago’s as soon as he is able to do something like that – probably will be a long time before he could get in and out of a car.

Honestly, he is simply thankful to be alive and look in our eyes and see visitors and hear of the love from all of you. He is moved to tears when we tell him how many visits there are on this site. He wells up when we tell him of the comments that you all have left. Thank you so much.

Dad is doing pretty well today. He’s not a pain in the neck at all, but his neck has caused him some pain today. His arm, too. He’s been very himself, with occasional ins and outs from the pain meds. He has definitely not lost his sense of humor. He has definitely not lost his sense of listening to God, either. He told me a moment ago – “I just simply sense the Lord whispering, ‘Peace.’ And I trust Him.”

He said to Erik and me today, “It is really amazing what people have done to show us how much they love us.” And it has. Erik and I can’t thank you enough.

He is moved every time he talks about or thinks about Mom. He desperately wants to see her. I look forward to that time with both anticipation and pain. I know he will struggle seeing her. I know also how deeply he loves her and how much it will mean to him.

Jen and I were beginning to talk the other day about how we will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. Their 49th wedding anniversary is next Thursday. It would be awesome if they could at least see each other that day. Erik and Erin will be married 10 years the next day – April 17th. Then Mom’s sister and her husband have been married over 55 years I believe on the 18th. Not sure of the exact number.

All this to say – pray for Dad to continue to get rest as he prepares for intensive rehab. Our friend, Don Richard, prayed today something very meaningful for Pop – “Lord, give Jimmy the grace to receive ministry.” Very important, because Dad is one of those sheep that Jesus describes in Matthew 25 who has not kept score of his good. He has simply given love as freely as it has been given to him without notice or reward. Erik and I have been blessed to witness it.

Mom is pretty much the same. Let’s continue to pray for her to “come alive again” tomorrow in some way.

We love yall so much. Very sincerely – your outpouring of love on Mom and Dad and Erik and Erin and their kids and Jen and our kids and me has meant so very much.

We’ll update again tomorrow. Have a HAPPY EASTER!!!

Reuben Lee passed away about noon today. Please be in prayer for the family.



Helen Louise “Sis” McGehee Morse
(August 10, 1916 – April 10, 2009)


Died at 5:15PM on Friday, April 10, 2009 at The Hospice House in Hammond, LA. She was a native of Hammond, LA and a resident of Amite, LA. Age 92 years. Graveside Services will be held at 10:00AM Wednesday at Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. Services conducted by Rev. Gaylord Dodgen. Survived by 2 sons, Larry W. Morse, Amite, Charles M. “Chuck” Morse and his wife, Janet, Hammond, 1 grandson, Sean Etherage Morse, Hammond, 1 sister, Anna “Webbie” Ory, Fluker, a number of nieces, Preceded in death by, husband, Aubrey E. “Hoss” Morse, She was a member and Sunday School teacher at Amite-Arcola Presbyterian Church and was a member of the Yellow Jacket Club at Southeastern Louisiana University. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Amite-Arcola Presbyterian Church, 501 Walnut St., Amite, LA 70422. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.