Category: Praises, Requests, & Updates

Wednesday

When will you ever learn

that “believing” is useless

without doing what God wants you to?

Faith that does not result in good deeds

is not real faith.

James 2:20 (LB)

Debbie Miller’s doctor is treating her recent heart problem with medication. Pray for this to effective so Debbie can return to her normal life.

From Dianne Williams: Polly Bridges’ Mom

Polly called last night. Her mom has been moved from rehab back to North Oaks. She has an infection. They have been working with her with breathing problems in addition to other health concerns before this. Polly and her family need our prayers.

 

Thelma Jean Dees Watson
(August 30, 1922 – October 21, 2008)

Died at 7:40 a.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at Gulf States LTAC of Hammond. She was a native of Springfield, MA and a resident of Amite. Age 86 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Wednesday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. Thursday. Services conducted by Elder Marshall Wallace. Interment Amite Cemetery, Amite. She is survived by her son, Shot Watson and his wife, Viola, Arcola, grandson, Aubrey “Catt” Watson, Arcola, 2 step-grandchildren, Kimberly and James Hatfield, Arcola, brother, Earl Dees and his wife, Marilyn, Fluker, sister, Dell Frickey and her husband, Joe, Des Allemands, and her caregiver for the past 3 years, Sherry Wallace, Arcola. She was preceded in death by her husband, Walt D. “Hamp” Watson, granddaughter, Belinda Lee Watson, brother, Lee Dees, and parents, Lloyd Jerome Dees and Thelma Kemp Dees.

Shirley Brown Winborn
(January 16, 1935 – October 21, 2008)

Died at 10:52 a.m. on Tuesday, October 21, 2008 at Hood Memorial Hospital in Amite. She was a native and a resident of Amite. Age 73 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Wednesday and at Wilmer Baptist Church on Thursday from 8 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Services conducted by Rev. Jason Skipper, Rev. Jerry Blackwell and Rev. Glyn Irwin. Interment Wilmer Cemetery, Wilmer, LA. She is survived by her husband, Troy Lane Winborn, Amite; 3 daughters, Becky Winborn Mayeux, Tickfaw, Mary Ann Winborn Cutrer, Amite and Jenny Sue Winborn Weedman, Independence; 1 son, Alan Lane Winborn, Amite; 1 sister, Mary Belle Brown Little, Roseland; 1 brother, Abner Thomas Brown, Jr., Kentwood; 13 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Katherine “Kitty” Elouise Winborn Scott; father, Abner Thomas Brown, Sr.; mother, Esther Mae Golmon Brown; 2 brothers, Doyle Brown and Roger Donald Brown, Sr.

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Wednesday, October 22, 2008

“Here am I; send me” (Isaiah 6:8b, KJV).

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, asking you to pray for those seeking missionary appointment.

I could hear footsteps in the distance and someone explaining the Prayer Room down the hall. I laughed when they said, “This room is open to you any time-just turn off your cell phone and go in to pray.” While traveling recently, I couldn’t help but notice how cell phones have taken over airports; but I was thankful this person reminded their group to leave the “busyness” behind and step into the quiet of the Prayer Room for time with the Lord.

The small group began to move and I realized these were new missionary candidates. As they got to our Prayer Office, several faces peeked in the door and smiled; but they quickly continued, not wanting to lose that particularly essential person guiding them through this large, intricate office building.

The candidates are here for a few days of interviews and exploring their call to missions. During this week, they will meet with regional representatives who can share more about their potential place of service and the work they would do, with medical personnel who will poke and prod to make sure everyone is healthy enough to serve in distant lands, and with staff members who will assist them think this decision through and affirm God’s call on their lives.

Candidate Conference is a fun experience with new friends and future colleagues but is also a sober time to examine your heart and listen intently to the Lord. The candidates have stepped away from their familiar surroundings and support groups to offer themselves for overseas service.

* Please pray for missionary candidates as they seek the Lord’s will for their future service.

* Intercede for staff members who will counsel them throughout this week.

* Thank the Lord for calling out laborers and for those whose lives will be transformed when these new missionaries go to the field, boldly sharing God’s love.

WEDNESDAY WINDOW ON THE WORLD

October 22, 2008

RURAL HAITIANS OF HAITI (HAY-shuns). Missionaries Sam and Delores York write: “Several times we have asked for prayer for the faithfulness of the Haitian story leaders in the Central Plateau during our absence on stateside assignment. We met with the leaders in July and tell you with great joy that they have remained faithful! On a Monday, we were cleaning house and were amazed to see 15 story leaders walking up the road for their regular Monday afternoon meeting. They had been regularly meeting for Bible study and to encourage each other every Monday during our absence. As they read from their roll book, where they kept account of who was in attendance and how many participants each had in his Bible study or church that week in each location, tears of joy ran down our cheeks to know of their faithfulness. We praise God that they have remained steadfast, and we praise God that you have been faithful to pray for these lay leaders. We couldn’t have been happier to hear how they are supportive of the new work we are beginning in the Dominican Republic with Haitians! Pray that these young leaders will not be gullible and be taken over by ‘wolves.’ Pray for spiritual discernment.”

UNIVERSITY STUDENTS AND YOUNG PROFESSIONALS OF ROME, ITALY. Please pray for M, as he has been open and is seeking truth. He has had some conversations with different members of the University/Young Professionals Team about who God is and what it means to be a Christian. He has studied many different religions, and still hasn’t found what he wants to believe in. Pray that God will open his eyes to Himself. http://www.intercambioitaly.org/

BIHARI MUSLIMS OF BANGLADESH (bee-HAR-ree). A choir of four beggars can be heard on Friday mornings in an affluent neighborhood in Dhaka. Chanting religious songs, the men move through the streets on their heavily bandaged hands or all fours. Leprosy (Hansen’s disease) is still a major public health problem in areas of Bangladesh. In 2005, The Leprosy Mission (TLM) workers found 4,898 new cases of leprosy in the country. Urban slums, including the Bihari camps in Dhaka, are pockets of resistance in the fight to eradicate leprosy. Though far less infectious than earlier assumed, leprosy remains highly stigmatized and most often leads to ostracism, divorce, loss of jobs, or a ban from attending school. Please pray for TLM teams and government hospitals to detect and treat leprosy early before disability occurs. Pray for leprosy patients and their families in Bihari camps. Pray that they will know God’s touch and have an opportunity to receive His love. BihariBride@pobox.com; http://www.biharimuslims.com/

Begin to make plans to participate in On Mission in Kentwood Saturday. Please contact me or the church if you have any questions, want to volunteer, or know of a project that is needed.

Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

You need to persevere

so that when you have done the will of God,

you will receive what he has promised.

For in just a very little while,

“He who is coming will come

and will not delay.”

Hebrews 10:36-37 (NIV)

 

 

 

Things to pray for today:

  • Those who need Jesus
  • Homebound
  • Residents of nursing homes
  • Those in hospitals or undergoing tests
  • Those who are suffering in any way
  • Prisoners
  • Missionaries – both long term and short term
  • Church staffs and volunteers
  • Teachers
  • Students
  • Our political and military leaders
  • Men and women of the armed forces
  • The election process
  • Political candidates
  • Individual voters



You can add specific names in these categories or pray for the groups as a whole.

Baptist Press

October 20, 2008

GEORGIA–SBC president urges prayer for awakening. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29159

TEXAS–Ed Young Jr.: Scripture is best voter guide. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29160

TENNESSEE–SBC leaders add praises, boost call for emails to honor Graham’s 90th. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29161

TENNESSEE–‘Fireproof’ passes $20M at box office. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29162

TENNESSEE–Urban Bible study aims for relevancy. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29163

NORTH CAROLINA–Southeastern enhances A.Div. program. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29164

TEXAS–FIRST-PERSON (Tamara Quintana): Winterize your walk. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29165

Ralph Owen “Man” Anthony
(February 16, 1965 – October 18, 2008)

Ralph Owen “Man” Anthony, was born on February 16, 1965 and passed away at 7:30AM, Saturday, October 18, 2008 at his residence. He was 43 a native of Independence and a resident of Greensburg. He was the son of Barbara Baham Anthony of Amite and the late M C “Bull” Anthony.

Ralph is survived by his mother, Barbara Baham Anthony, Amite; 3 brothers, Wilford Anthony and wife, Flo, Greensburg, Calvin Anthony and wife, Joyce, Loranger, & Tommy Anthony, Baptist; a sister, Lisa Anthony Treadway and husband, Matthew, Holden; devoted friends, John & Christine Brumfield & family; also numerous nieces, nephews, cousins & extended family.

Also preceded in death by 3 brothers, Donnie, David, & Pete Anthony; 2 sisters, Ophelia Elaine Baham & Rose Marie “Lady Bug” Anthony; a nephew, Thomas Troy “Tom Tom” Baham

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Wednesday, October 22, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 11:00AM at the Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Bobby Carroll officiating. Interment in the Briar Path Cemetery, Loranger.

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

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

The Sunday school lesson Sunday was from I Samuel and centered on the friendship between Jonathan and David. It was a good reminder to us of the importance of Christian friendships. It also reminded us to stay faithful to our friends and be an encourager to them. Friendships are certainly worth the time and effort you put into them. I’m very thankful for my many friends. Each one is special to me. What about you?

Have a terrific Tuesday!

Anna Lee

Monday

“God shall bless us,

and all the ends of the earth shall fear Him.”

~Psalm 67:7~

Thank God for the beautiful weather we have been having. Thank him for life today – another opportunity to live for Him!

Today is the day Holly Kliesch has been waiting for. Pray for her as she leaves home to begin this new journey. Pray for her family as they entrust her to her journey and the One who leads her and will provide for her. She’ll be back in eight weeks for the holidays before her big departure.

A number of people in our area have had surgeries or are waiting for results of medical tests. Your prayers for them will be greatly appreciated.

Lisa Davis, Susan Rimes’ sister in Arkansas, and several people in our area continue to need our prayers as they battle cancer.

Reminder: Pray for our country at 8 P.M. each night.

40 DAYS AND 40 NIGHTS (40/40) NEW MISSIONARY ORIENTATION. Thank you for praying for the “40 Days and 40 Nights” new missionary field orientation that will begin on Oct. 22. Missionaries need preparation, training and mentoring, and in the Central, Eastern and Southern Africa region, the best ones to teach them about Africa initially are Africans in an African setting by experiencing Africa. Believing that this training enables new missionaries to productively engage their people group more quickly and with a foundation of varied experiences, 36 missionaries and their children will come to Zambia and remain there until Nov. 21. Begin now praying for those making preparations and for those who will soon land in Africa and head to Zambia. Ask God to provide and protect each and every person. Pray for a spirit of excitement and a desire to learn. http://cesa.imb.org/

SOUTHERN SUDAN. Attending a church service in Southern Sudan under a tree would differ considerably to what many of us experience in a church service. Among the many other differences, the language would be a series of foreign sounds coming out in an unusual-sounding rhythm. It would seem catchy, fun and quite enjoyable to clap and sway with the music–but not understandable. The people of Southern Sudan have a lack of understanding of Christianity like this. They have been told that they are Christians because they are not Muslim. Most go through some of the motions of church and religious customs, but they have little true understanding of what the gospel is really about. Pray that the missionaries who are in place, along with the two couples who are in the process of making it to Southern Sudan, will be used to bring meaning to the people’s religious rituals and that many will come to a saving knowledge of Christ. http://sudansouth.org/

50 DAYS OF PRAYER FOR CUBA. Cuban Baptists want to be ready to take advantage of every opportunity to accomplish the goal of reaching 1 million of their own people by the year 2010. They ask us to pray earnestly for the Lord to lead them to encounter 100,000 “homes of peace,” where churches can be planted. The goal will be approximately 590 homes in each province in the country. May we be found faithful as we stand in the gap, praying with them to see God perform His will for the glory of His name. “And I sought for a man among them that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land…” (Ezekiel 22:30, KJV).

LAST FRONTIER. Some areas where a Last Frontier people group live do not allow them the freedom to follow and worship their Savior, Jesus Christ, even in a private way. Pray for those who are jailed and for their families while they are separated. Pray also for wisdom for government officials to see the assurance of hope in the believers’ lives so they will desire it for themselves also and will, therefore, show mercy to those who are suffering for their strong faith. These officials are trying diligently to do their job by carrying out the laws and customs of the land, because they do not yet have a personal belief or faith in their Creator. Pray like Jesus did on the cross, “Father, forgive them because they do not know what they are doing.” Then pray that they also will hear, understand and accept the truth of God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit for eternal life in heaven.

Ida “Lovis” Perryman Alford
(September 25, 1921 – October 18, 2008)

Died at 5:33 a.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2008 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was a native of Gillsburg, MS and a resident of Greensburg, LA. Age 87 years. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Greensburg and a retired nurses’ aid from Lallie Kemp Regional Medical Center. Graveside services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, October, 20, 2008. Services conducted by Rev. Charles Kirkfield and assisted by Matthew Belser. Interment New Zion Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. She is survived by 2 daughters, Daisy Wascom and husband, Jule, and Janis Lassiter and husband, Mike, all of Greensburg; 6 grandchildren, Jeff Rohner, Glenda Wascom, Jana Causey, Vicki Rohner, Wayne Ard and Eddie Hayes; 6 great- grandchildren, Colby, Chelsea and Carson Causey, Ryan and Rusty Wascom and Kayla Sagely. She was preceded in death by her parents, Ed and Pernese Perryman; sister, Juanita Lee; 4 brothers, Carl, Clifton, Woodrow and Rodman Perryman.

Thanks for praying today. Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“Likewise the Spirit

also helps in our weaknesses.

For we do not know

what we should pray for as we ought,

but the Spirit Himself makes intercession

for us with groanings

which cannot be uttered.”

~Romans 8:26~

Pray for Holly Kliesch as she travels to Richmond tomorrow for eight weeks of training before going to West Africa to be a teacher for MK’s.

Answered Prayers!!!

Mr. Phillip Harrell and Debbie Miller were both hospitalized last Sunday, but are home and planning to attend church services today.

Susan Marie Roussell McLin
(February 12, 1965 – October 18, 2008)

Susan Marie Roussell McLin was born on February 12, 1965 and passed away at 8:10PM, Saturday, October 18, 2008 at her residence. She was 43, a native of Chalmette and a resident of Tickfaw. She is the dauaghter of Gloria Hardy Roussell of Tickfaw and the late Sidney Joseph Roussell, Sr.

Susan is survived by her husband of 20 years, Charles E. McLin, Jr., Tickfaw; a son, Charles E. “Chas” McLin, III, Tickfaw; her mother, Gloria Hardy Roussell, Tickfaw; 2 borthers, Sidney Joseph Roussell, Jr. Pensacola, FL & Richard Eugene Roussell, Slidell; father-in-law & mother-in-law, Charles E, & Donna M. McLin, Sr., Ponchatoula.

Also preceded in death by a sister, Bettie Ann Roussell Keys Boisdore.

Visitation wil be held on Tuesday, October 21, 20008 at the Arcola Bapatist Church, Arcola, from 10:00AM until Religious Services at 3:00PM at the Church with Rev. Bob Simpson officiating. Interment in the Arcola Baptist Church Cemetery.

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

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

James L. Akins
(February 16, 1940 – October 17, 2008)

James L. Akins, a master craftsman, was born on February 16, 1940 and passed away at 12:30AM, Friday, October 17, 2008 at Cannon Hospice, Elmwood Campus in New Orleans. Mr. James was 68, a native of Winnsboro, SC and a resident of Greensburg for 14 years. He was the son of the late Jimmie & Lillie Woods Akins.

He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Helen N. Akins, Greensburg; a loving daughter, Shelia Prescott, McComb, MS; a loving son, Wayne Akins, Greensburg; a daughter, Capri Lewis, Ridgeway, SC; 4 sisters, Colleen Carter, Jesup, GA, Cassie Lee Rumore, Tampa, FL, Mary Akins, Winnsboro, SC & Laura Mae LeGrand, Winnsboro, SC; a brother, Marshall Akins, Hopewell, VA; 7 Grandchildren, Mark Prescott, Jr., Kristen Akins, Johnathan Fergerson, Crystal Veld, Crystal Akins, Frannie Akins, & Cameron Akins; his mother-in-law, Mrs. Leonise Leonard, Marrero, LA; an aunt, Mrs. Doreas Floyd, Winnsboro, SC; numerous nieces, nephews & friends; and his beloved dog, Rex Ochoa Akins.

He was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Randy James Akins & Frankie Ladd Akins; and a grandson, Frankie “Dude” Akins.

Pallbearers will be Theodore Pace, Red Skelton, Bubbie St. Alexander, Harris Naquin, Sr., Harris Naquin, Jr. & Jim Tingle. Honorary Pallbearers are Wayne Akins, Mark Prescott, Jr., Johnathan Fergerson, Leslie “Henry” Day & Alvin Naquin, Sr.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Tuesday October 21, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 2:00PM in the Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Paul Taylor officiating. Interment in the Greensburg Cemetery.

The family would like to thank everyone who touched James’ life. Also our gratitude to the Denham family for their heartfelt generosity, Thank You.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the James L. Akins Memorial Fund %McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, 60100 Westway Drive, Amite, La. 70422.

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

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

Emerson C. Newman
(February 2, 1930 – October 17, 2008)

U.S. Veteran Mr. Emerson C. Newman was born February 2, 1930 and passed away at 4:05PM, Friday, October 17, 2008 at the G. V (Sonny) Montgomery VA Medical Center in Jackson, MS. He was 78, a native of St. Francisville and a resident of Greensburg. Mr. Emerson was the son of the late Jesse Bernard, Sr. & Mary Calvit Newman. He also was a U. S. Air Force Veteran of the Korean Conflict.

He is survived by 3 daughters; Suzanne Newman Travis and husband, Bobby, Kentwood, Donna Jean Newman Black, Hammond, & Mala Fran Newman Schott and husband, John, Tickfaw; a son, Eric Newman, Baton Rouge; 10 Grandchildren, Ross, Craig, Carson, & Michelle Travis, Tyler & Chelsea Black, Rachel & Ashley Newman, Elizabeth & Joseph Schott.

Also preceded in death by his wife, Jean Fortenberry Newman; 2 brothers, Jesse B. Newman, Jr. & a infant Newman Boy; a sister, Bernadine Bradford.

Visitation at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, Sunday, October 19, 2008 from 6:00PM until 9:00PM and on Monday, October 20,2008 from 10:00AM until Religious Services at 2:00PM at the Wesley’s Chapel Methodist Church, Darlington, with Rev. LaMarylis Cotten officiating. Interment in the Wesley’s Chapel Church Cemetery.

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

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

FBC, Kentwood Information

WMU meets at 4 P.M. today.

On Mission in Kentwood

  • Saturday, October 25
  • 8:00 A.M.
  • Ministry projects in Kentwood

Deacon Hospital Visitation

  • Tom Tolar
  • Raymond Cutrer

Nursery Workers Today

  • Gretchen Simpson
  • Jill Brister
  • Sharon Martin

Nursing Home Visitation – Tuesday @ 10 A.M.

Sr. Adult Eat-Out @ Charlies in Springfield

  • Bus leaves church @ 10:30 A.M.
  • Sign-up sheet

Revival DVD’s

  • All 5 services
  • $2.00
  • Call the church office to place your order.

Georgia Barnette State Offering

  • Received so far – $4279.00

Operation Christmas Child

  • Project of Samaritan’s Purse
  • Christmas Gifts for needy children worldwide
  • Deadline – November 16

Bible Character & Trunk or Treat

  • October 26
  • Call church office to include your vehicle.

Happy Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

SEARCHING FOR GOD

No doubt, you have received a sweepstakes notice at some time from American Family Publishers. You know how it works. You look over their magazine bargains — and the chance to buy a few for your office or waiting room. In return, they give you the opportunity to win large amounts of money.

In 1997, their mailing list included the Bushnell Assembly of God in Bushnell, Florida. The computer somehow twisted the name of the church and a sweepstakes notice addressed to “God of Bushnell” was sent to the church address.

The letter read, “Dear God, We’re searching for you. You’ve been positively identified as our $11,000,000 mystery millionaire!”

The letter went on to say, “What an incredible fortune there would be for God! Imagine the looks you’d get from neighbors. But don’t just sit there, God, come forward now and claim your prize!”

Wouldn’t it be wonderful if they truly were searching for God? If they sensed what Pascal called a “God-shaped void” in their lives and realized their need to come to know God and to understand what God could do for them? If they understood that the “prize” God offers is so much greater than the prize they were offering?

The good news is that God is not hiding and that those who truly are searching for him can find him.

“From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. ‘For in him we live and move and have our being.'” (Acts 17:26-28a, NIV)

It is humorous that someone would be searching for God in order to give him 11 million dollars. He owns the “cattle on a thousand hills” (Psa. 50:10) and needs nothing. But he has blessings beyond measure for those who would seek him out. May you be counted among those who “reach out for him and find him.”

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Saturday

“Blessed be God,

who has not turned away my prayer,

nor His mercy from me!”

~Psalm 66:20~

Debbie Miller has not had any additional problems in the last couple of days. Pray she continues to be better and will be able to see a specialist soon.

From Sue Minor/Tucker:

Please pray for my son-inlaw’s mother Norma Handley who is in ICU at North Oaks and on a ventilator at this time. Please also remember all of her family as they go through this time with her. Please pray for comfort for her and healing if it be God’s will and pray for strength and peace for the family in knowing that God is with them always. Thank you so much for praying.

We had a great group for the share group meeting Thursday night. On of the things we did was pray for the election. Don’t forget to unite with Christians across the country as they pray at 8 P.M. (our time zone). There’s power in prayer!

OnMission in Kentwood will be a week from today. Join us as we serve together in Jesus’ name.

James L. Akins
(February 16, 1940 – October 17, 2008)

James L. Akins was born on February 16, 1940 and passed away at 12:30AM, Friday, October 17, 2008 at Cannon Hospice, Elmwood Campus in New Orleans. Mr. James was 68, a native of Winnsboro, SC and a resident of Greensburg. He was the son of the late James & Lillie Woods Akins.He is survived by his loving wife of 44 years, Helen N. Akins, Greensburg; 2 loving daughters, Shelia Prescott, McComb, MS & Capri Lewis, Ridgeway, SC; a loving son, Wayne Akins, Greensburg; 4 sisters, Colleen Carter, Jessup, GA, Cassie Lee Rumore, Tampa, FL, Mary Akins, Winnsboro, SC & Laura Mae LeGrand, Winnsboro, SC; a brother, Marshall Akins, Hopewell, VA; 7 Grandchildren, Mark Prescott, Jr., Kristen Akins, Jonathan Akins, Crystle Akins, Crustle Akins, Frannie Akins, & Cameron Akins; his mother-in-law, Mrs. Leonise Leonard, Marrero, LA; and numerous nieces & nephews.

He was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Randy James Akins & Frankie Ladd Akins; and a grandson, Frankie “Dude” Akins.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Tuesday October 21, 2008 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 2:00PM in the Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Paul Taylor officiating. Interment in the Greensburg Cemetery.

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

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

INTERNATIONAL MISSIONS PRAYERLINE
INTERNATIONAL MISSION BOARD
Friday, October 17, 2008

“Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12: 1-2a, NKJV)

Dear Intercessors, this is Eleanor Witcher of the International Prayer Strategy Office, joining you in prayer for the nations.

India’s middle class is growing and is becoming very economically powerful. As their power and influence grows, they are beginning to question some of the “old ways,” practices that their parents and grandparents took for granted. The younger generation is seeking something to bring more meaning, more significance to their lives. But with only one true evangelical Christian to approximately 6 million people, the Bride of Christ needs to look at how she is dealing with their search. The corporate world is certainly making an impact. Consumerism has hit India hard. Indians are responding, seeing if the affluence that the West loves so well is what brings happiness. Do you wonder what idol will hold more bondage over the Indians as time continues? Will it be Shiva, Krishna, Ram or Ganesh? Or will it be money? Pray to Almighty God that none of these will prevail, but that Indians will turn to Jesus, finding their true significance through serving Him. Ask God to stir His church to respond in ways that give India’s young middle class a better option–a life surrendered to Jesus.

In these difficult economic times, is there any wonder what idol holds bondage over many of us in the United States? As we pray for the nations, pray also for those in our own country who are struggling with fear and concern. Pray that they will place their trust wholly in the Lord.

* Please pray for the salvation of many young middle class adults in India.

* Pray they will run their race with endurance.

* Intercede for yourself and fellow Christians that we will all keep our eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.


October 2008

Meeting Needs in the Caribbean

Chaplains from the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team (RRT) arrived Oct. 6 on Grand Turk Island in response to a request by area pastors. Hurricane Ike ripped through the Turks and Caicos Islands on Sept. 7 as a Category 4 storm with 135-mph winds, damaging as much as 95 percent of the housing on Grand Turk, the governing seat of the 25,000-resident British territory. Grand Turk Island is located in the Caribbean, and is approximately 6.9 square miles in size.

Even in the short time they have been there, chaplains are making a big impact. The RRT has trained 14 pastors and church leaders, prayed with 365 people, and led four people to Christ for the first time. They are working in conjunction with a team from Samaritan s Purse. Learn more »

The Long Road to Recovery

Rampant chaos and trauma have overwhelmed police officers in the areas damaged by Hurricane Ike in Texas and Louisiana, but officers are too busy helping others to give themselves time to heal. Trained Rapid Response Team chaplains visited local police departments and spent time with officers who are depressed and downtrodden in the aftermath of the storm.

Altogether, 16 Rapid Response Team chaplains are working 24/7 to minister to victims of Hurricane Ike. They have counseled approximately 350 people and will remain in the area for weeks, visiting homes, hospitals and damaged areas and bringing the healing love of Jesus Christ with their presence. Read the rest of the article »


Please help
By supporting the Rapid Response Team, you can help us respond to emergencies like Hurricane Ike and tell of the One who heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds (Psalm 147:3, NIV). Thank you for your prayers. We also greatly value your financial support.

Have a wonderful weekend!

Anna Lee

Friday

Live together in harmony,

live together in love,

as though you had only one mind

and one spirit between you …

in humility think more of each other

than you do of yourselves.

~Philippians 2:3-4 (PH)~

From Becky Lindsey:

I recently learned of your site through my father, Larry Carruth. My mother has been in ICU at North Oaks Medcial Center for several days after a very extensive surgery. We realize the power of prayer and would request Judy Carruth be added to the prayer list. . . .

Please continue to pray for Debbie Miller. She is continuing to experience some health problems while resting at home.

Please don’t forget to pray for John Easley and his family as he has surgery this morning and goes through the recovery process in the next few months.


KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

“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

EXTREME MUD RIDING

For several weeks, some Christian workers and their children have gone into the countryside of Guinea-sometimes by foot, sometimes by truck, and other times by bike. They go to share the love of Jesus with the Fulbe Futa Jalon people (FUL-bay FOO-tuh jah-lone) people of West Africa.

The rainy season started and many of the fun excursions turned into ‘extreme mud riding.’ One day, one young boy looked like a spotted leopard by the time he got home! It had rained while the family was at a distant market, so the return trip was really muddy. Mud sprayed everywhere-especially from his back tire right up his back.

It took a lot of work to get their clothes clean! The family was so happy to go to another unreached village with God’s Word. At the local markets, the Christians have found a few people who are curious and many who are afraid. It is not always easy to walk up to others and tell them about Jesus. There are some people who do not want the Christians to talk about Jesus.

Please pray for the Christians who are going all over the countryside to tell the Fulbe Futa Jalon about Jesus. Pray they will laugh about the rain and the mud…and keep on going to the people. Ask God to help the Fulbe Futa Jalon not be afraid to hear about Jesus.


MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray for peace in Zimbabwe and pray for missionary growth. JASON, age 16, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray for my mom-she has a skin cancer. My dad’s friend has a know on his leg. Pray for him too. MARK, age 8 (South Asia)

Our family works with the Zulu people group and they are very hard to witness to. Please pray for me to have the courage to witness.

Pray for wisdom for me and my sister with all the temptations that are around us.

CAITLIN, age 16, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

I met a friend at the park named TR. He is really close to accepting Christ and even told my friend, “I envy you because you have something to believe.” Please pray that he will continue to be open to the Gospel. ASHLEY, age 13 (Pacific Rim)

My prayer request is for my friend. His nickname is Sam. He has baptized a lot of people, and we pray that more people in my country will know more about Jesus. BELINDA, age 10 (South Asia)


Baptist Press

October 16, 2008

NEW YORK–McCain, Obama have sharp disagreements in final debate. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29136

WASHINGTON–New law may reduce Down syndrome abortions. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29137

WASHINGTON–Abortion trauma hits both women, men. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29138

TEXAS–Baylor pays freshmen to raise SAT scores. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29139

OKLAHOMA–Okla. Baptist University names 15th president. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29140

TENNESSEE–‘Excellence in Journalism’ winners named. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29141

TEXAS–FIRST PERSON (Penna Dexter): Is the war over equal pay worth fighting? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=29142


Have a fantastic Friday. Thanks for praying each day.

Anna Lee

Thursday

“But certainly God has heard me;

He has attended to the voice of my prayer.” ~Psalm 66:19~

Debbie Miller is home, but doesn’t have a diagnosis yet. Pray for her as she awaits an appointment that may help determine her health problem. She is very thankful for your prayers and concern for her.

Mr. Phillip and Mrs. Annie Bell Harrell are both improving. They hope to be back in church Sunday. Please keep them in your prayers.

Frann S. Clark:

Having cataract surgery this morning (Thursday)

in Lake Charles. Didn’t knw until late yesterday afternoon that it would be at 6 am. Had an IVIG yesterday from 7:30 am until about 4:30 pm. Too tired to e-mail when I got home.

Pray for peace for me and skillful hands of those doing the procedure.

I wi;; have to go to LC tomorrow and next Thursday for followups.

Right eye wil be Oct. 30

Update on Charlie Banks:

Below is the latest update on Wes Bank’s father. Thank you for praying for him and the whole family as he recovers. Also attached is a picture of Wes’ parents. Please also continue to pray for Adrian, the young man that cause the accident that he will come to know the Lord as his Savior.

Melinda


Hey ya’ll,This is another update on Dad! He is doing great! Thank you for your continued prayers and support. Wes, Tamara and the boys were out of town last week with meetings in Prague, Czech Republic. Mom and Dad were in good hands, while we were away. They had meals provided by other M’s in the area and they were visited by some Romanian friends.

Now dad is able to wear pants and both shoes. He is also able to put just a little pressure on the toes of the injured leg. They have removed all bandages from the incisions. He still has the Velcro brace and he is still using the walker.

The doctor called today and set up an appointment for an x-ray next Tuesday (October 21). Once the doctor sees the x-rays, he will evaluate Dad and let us know when he can fly home. We are hopeful that it will be by the end of next week, but we have to wait and see.

We thank you again for remembering us during this time.

Pryr needs:

*Dad’s continued healing and recovery
*Doctor’s evaluation
*Details for flight arrangements
*Justice in legal matters
*Salvation for Adrian

Psalm 20
The Banks


Send a Message to Billy
Graham for His 90th Birthday
By Staff

Baptist Press


NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP)–Do you have a story about how Billy Graham’s ministry has impacted your life? If so, his friends and family members would like to hear it — and then deliver your story to the evangelist, who turns 90 on Nov. 7.

The Billy Graham Evangelistic Association has set up a website — BillyGraham90.com — where people can send Graham stories, birthday greetings or simply a note of thanks to the man who likely has preached the Gospel to more people than anyone in history. (Messages to Graham also can be mailed to: Billy Graham’s 90th Birthday, Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, 1 Billy Graham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28201.) The deadline for submissions is Nov. 1. The website also has materials to help churches promote the opportunity.

“My father is a humble man who would never expect to be honored and recognized like this on his birthday,” Franklin Graham, the evangelist’s eldest son, said in a news release. “We urge all who made a commitment to Jesus Christ through my father’s ministry to share your story or simple greeting, as nothing could uplift him more on this special day.”

The news release added that “all who have been personally touched by an aspect of Billy Graham’s ministry are welcome and encouraged … to share a greeting or a personal story about his ministry they feel would encourage Mr. Graham at this milestone.”

All of the birthday messages to Graham will be compiled in books and presented to him during a tribute dinner with friends and family members.

The website already has posted some of the messages.

“Back around 1957 you were in Richmond, Va., in a Crusade, I felt the Holy Spirit and went forward and rededicated my life,” one message reads. “I have never been the same. I started reading my Bible and over all these years have fallen more and more in love with the Lord. God Bless You.”

In 60-plus years of ministry, Graham has preached the Gospel in person to nearly 215 million people, according to the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association.

Compiled by Michael Foust, assistant editor of Baptist Press.


SEVEN WONDERS OF THE WORLD

 

I heard about a group of Geography students who studied the Seven Wonders of the World. At the end of that section, they students were asked to list what they each considered to be the Seven Wonders of the World. Though there was some disagreement, the following got the most votes: Egypt’s Great Pyramid, the Taj Mahal, the Grand Canyon, the Panama Canal, the Empire State Building, St. Peter’s Basilica and China’s Great Wall.

While gathering the votes, the teacher noted that one student, a quiet girl, hadn’t turned in her paper yet. So she asked the girl if she was having trouble with her list. The quiet girl replied, “Yes, a little. I couldn’t quite make up my mind because there were so many.”

The teacher said, “Well, tell us what you have, and maybe we can help.” The girl hesitated, then read, “I think the Seven Wonders of the World are to touch and to taste, to see and to hear . . . ” She hesitated a little, “and then to run and to laugh and to love.”

It is far too easy for us to look at the exploits of man and refer to them as “wonders” while we overlook all that God has done, regarding them as merely “ordinary.” May you be reminded today of those things which are truly wondrous.

“I will remember the works of the LORD; Surely I will remember Your wonders of old. I will also meditate on all Your work, and talk of Your deeds…..Who is so great a God as our God? You are the God who does wonders.” (Psalm 77:11-14a)

Praise be to “the God who does wonders”!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thanks for praying today. You mean so much to so many!

Have a great Thursday!

Don’t forget the share group at 6:30 tonight.

Anna Lee

Wednesday

God did not give us a spirit

that makes us afraid

but a spirit of power

and love

and self-control.

~2 Timothy 1:7 (NCV)~

 

 

 

. . . . I would also like to see if you would add our new Church plant in Amite, LA to the prayer link. We are being sponsored by NAMB, Louisiana Baptist Convention, Two Rivers Assoc., and First Baptist Church of Amite, LA. Starting a new church has many challenges. We ask that our friends pray for us and view us as missionaries because our purpose is to seek and let Jesus save those who are lost. You can post my address and phone number on the link. . . .

Heath Rohner (985) 517-3303
Cross-Point Church
PO Box 4
Roseland, LA 70456

 

WEDNESDAY WINDOW ON THE WORLD

October 15, 2008

JAPAN’S CENTRAL MEGACITIES. A few months ago, you prayed for a new missionary family who would be moving near a train station on the southern end of the Osaka Loop Line, a major train line in the city. When the missionaries arrived on the field and moved into their new home in an apartment building, the first person they met told them that she was a Christian. With less than 1 percent of the population being Christian, that seemed amazing. Since that time, the missionaries have learned that the woman calls herself a Christian because her parents are Christians. She attended church as a child, but she resents the fact that her mother seemed to “make everything be about God.” However, once a week now she and her husband and elementary school-aged daughter are meeting with the missionaries to read the Bible, talk about what God is saying through His Word, sing Christian songs, and pray together. Her husband asks many questions. Praise God for this encounter so soon upon arriving on the field, and pray that this couple and their daughter will become true believers in Jesus Christ. This family has many contacts in the apartment building and neighborhood, so please pray for them to share what they learn and experience through God’s Word with others in the area.

ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES. The church in Overland is small and its members are not wealthy. Most of them are subsistence farmers, as is their bi-vocational pastor. Yet these devoted and faithful people want to start a new work in a nearby village. Please pray for wisdom and discernment for the IMB missionaries as they seek to teach the concept of planting self-sustaining, multiplying churches. They write: “Join us in praying that the learners will be open to the possibilities of planting churches using lay leadership and very little material resources. And please pray that God will provide a ‘person of peace’ in each area where He wants a new church planted. Ask Him to send workers into the harvest, and pray that that He will prepare the hearts of the people to hear and respond to the gospel.”

DINKA OF SOUTHERN SUDAN (DINK-ah). Though many hearts in Dinkaland do not acknowledge it, the rainy season declares the praises of God as the lush shades of green spring forth, concealing patches of red dirt and alleviating the sun’s intensity. However, the rainy season is also the time when sickness and disease spread most rapidly. With rancid mud puddles, disease-carrying mosquitoes, and poor sanitation methods, many Dinka people are in search of a healer. Some turn to the few medical facilities available, but more turn to witchdoctors and spiritists whom Satan uses to keep people bound in fear. Pray for the people of Southern Sudan, asking that they will put their trust in the Great Physician and be freed from fear by His perfect love. Pray that this season, God will display His power to heal diseases, both physically and spiritually. http://sudansouth.org/

Thank-you for praying today. You mean so much to so many. Have a wonderful Wednesday!

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“All men shall fear,

and shall declare the work of God;

for they shall wisely consider His doing.”

~Psalm 64:9~

Mr. Phillip Harrell is home. Please continue to pray for Mr. Phillip and “Miss” Annie Bell.

Debbie Miller is still undergoing tests at North Oaks. Pray for a diagnosis so treatment can begin.

JAPAN. Please pray for a small house church meeting in Shizuoka, Japan. The group has been meeting together and has been receiving training on being believers, being church, and being witnesses for Christ in their own communities. Please pray that the training will take root and that multiplication of disciples will be the result. Pray that they will “catch a vision” for reaching their own people even without the assistance of a missionary.

ONESTORY: WEST AFRICA. When IMB missionaries in the West Africa region came together recently for their annual meeting, they participated in small-group sessions led by their “OneStory” missionary colleagues. These OneStory missionaries demonstrated how they use stories from the Bible, told in a simple way, to bring the lost to Christ. One missionary in Senegal reports: “Since this meeting, we’ve been inspired to practice Bible storying on a more daily basis and have had several wonderful opportunities to share Christ. Please pray for the Muslims of Senegal to come to know Jesus through these stories and for us to obey the Holy Spirit’s leading in sharing these stories every day.”

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. As a final summer fling before school started, a 9-year-old MK set up a “store” outside the elevators of her apartment building. Her goal was to catch neighbors as they came home from work, hoping they would buy some of the beads and things she had made. Not to miss an opportunity, she also brought gospel tracts down with her. She confessed later to her parents that she had some help with the tracts. Some of her little Hindu friends decided they should grab the tracts and start helping to hand them out. A couple of the boys even distributed them around the parking lot on their bicycles. It seems like God intends to be known, and He uses a number of different ways of delivering His Message! What’s your delivery method? Please thank God for this young girl’s faith and desire to share the gospel with the lost. Pray that she will have the privilege of leading those young friends who helped her to receive Jesus as Savior. Ask God to honor her efforts with a harvest in their apartment complex.

William Reagan “Bill” Gallagher
(April 4, 1951 – October 13, 2008)


U.S. Veteran William Reagan “Bill” Gallagher was born April 4, 1951 and passed away October 13, 2008 in Amite, La. Bill was 57, and a native of North Riverside, Illinois and a resident of Amite. He was the son of the late Dudley Michael Gallagher and Mary Harriot Reagan.

He is survived by his wife, Glenda Russum Gallagher, Amite; 3 daughters, Jennifer Gallagher, Phenix City, Al., Megan Gallagher, Baton Rouge, and Emily Gallagher, Murfreesoboro, Tn.; 2 step-daughters, Brittany Kennedy, El Paso, Tx. and Ann Kennedy, Amite; a brother , Michael Gallagher and wife, Diane, of Opelousas, La.; 4 sisters, Jean Alford and husband, Jack, of Orlando, Fl., Patti Helm and husband Tom, of Austin, Tx., Peggy Isby and husband John, Alaska, and Kay Herrick and husband Bob, San Jose’, Ca.

A private Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Donations may be made in Bill’s honor to Make A Wish Foundation or Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Awareness.

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

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

FIRST-PERSON:
An Opportunity in Hard Times
By Joe McKeever

Baptist Press

NEW ORLEANS (BP)–An absolutely fool-proof way to stress yourself out is by staying glued to the television newscasts about the economy. “Wall Street dropped another 700 points today!” “Here is our panel of experts to tell you why the news is just going to get worse!” “Big Plants, Inc., is laying off another 4,000 employees!”

Oh great. Just what I needed to hear.

That’ll send your blood pressure through the ceiling, no matter your situation, but particularly if you are a heavy investor in stocks.

You’re not? Don’t be too sure. If you have a retirement account with some agency somewhere, you might be one of those (like me) who is being severely affected by the free-falling stock market. The headline on the front of Friday’s The Times-Picayune newspaper asked, “How Low Can It Go?”

Frankly, I don’t want to know.

Twenty years ago, when the market did a sort of “correction” — we’ll be generous and call it that — I recall someone asking either Ted Turner or Donald Trump, one of those big boys, “You lost a billion dollars. What do you have to say?”

He answered, “It was a paper loss. I’m not selling anything today. I’ll still be here tomorrow and first thing you know, I’ll have it all back.”

And that’s precisely what happened.

My neighbors, Bill and Sandra, are both retired from long careers in the commercial world, and this is scaring the daylights out of them.

A news report this week indicated that 80 percent of Americans say the economy is stressing them out.

The funny thing about this craziness in the economy is that we’re told the actual businesses of America are just fine. What is driving the roller-coasterness of Wall Street is a little thing called fear.

Remember FDR telling the nation at his 1933 inauguration, “The only thing we have to fear is fear itself”? He was right then, and it appears that’s the problem today.

Novices like me are perplexed at how the stock market rises and falls based on fears. The Fed chairman makes some statement about the future, and depending on whether he was optimistic or pessimistic, the market fluctuates. We laymen would like to think the people handling our investments are knowledgeable about the true value of stocks and not given to reacting to the latest whim.

Apparently that confidence is poorly placed. It would appear our stock brokers don’t know much more than the rest of us, but wet their index finger in the morning and poke it heavenward to see which way the winds are blowing before risking the billions of dollars entrusted to them.

Jean Chatzky, a frequent authority on money matters for the networks, urges that we not “make the financial channel our home page.” That is, quit running to see what your stocks did every day. “Check on them once a week or so,” she said.

For what this is worth, here are my own personal conclusions:

— The people in the pews this Sunday need to hear the pastor deliver a word from God. That word would include commands like, “Don’t collect for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. But collect for yourselves treasures in heaven … (Matthew 6:19-20).

The pastor will want to remind the people of the best bad-news text in all the Bible, Habakkuk 3:17-19: “Though the fig tree does not bud and there is no fruit on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will triumph in the LORD ….”

— This crisis gives the pastor an opportunity to speak to the faith of the people in the pews.

“You have put more joy in my heart than they have when their grain and new wine abound” (Psalm 4:7). Three kinds of joy are referenced here: Superficial (grain = money); artificial (new wine); and beneficial (the Lord’s presence). Only one of the three is constant and dependable. The other two are fleeting and of limited value.

— So, maybe the Lord wanted some of us to work a little longer before retiring. Perhaps He was not too excited about His people parking in the rocking chair on the front porch when He had more work for us to do.

Margaret and I are having that discussion since my employment at the Baptist Association of Greater New Orleans comes to a dead halt next April 30. Since my retirement fund at GuideStone has lost some 40 percent from its peak a couple of years ago, ideally, I’d like to leave it alone for two more years before even touching it. Give it time to replenish itself.

So, that means, like a lot of others in the same boat, I will keep on working. Doing what is the big question, of course, and the subject of my frequent prayers to the Father.

— The Father is not particularly worried about any of this. He knows what He is doing and is not perplexed about matters that stress us out.

Sometimes when church members have found themselves in the difficult position of losing good jobs in their middle years — what should be their peak-earning period — as their pastor, I have counseled them to be strong and go forward. “It’s tough right now and it’s going to be hard getting through this. But I guarantee you, the day will come when you will look back and give thanks to the Lord for the experience and the lessons you learned.” (As my dad used to say about his six children, ‘I wouldn’t take a million dollars for any one of them, and I wouldn’t give you a dime for another!’ That’s how you will feel about this difficult and trying time.)

Randy and Charlene were reminiscing with some of us about that very subject recently. When a new owner took over the factories Randy was managing, he suddenly found himself without a job. One day, he heard Paul Harvey talking about ServiceMaster, the home-and-office cleaning business. Randy looked into it, decided this was the right thing for him, and bought the franchise for our area of the state. To raise the money, he sold his boat and borrowed money from family members.

Eventually — a lot of personal sacrifices and hard work were involved, I’m confident — this business became one of ServiceMaster’s great success stories. In fact, Randy McCall has spoken at the national meetings of their franchisees, giving his and Charlene’s testimony.

As the story goes,
the guest preacher arrived at the airport and was greeted by the church member who had been assigned as his driver. On the drive back to the church, the layman poured out his fears over the way the country is going, despair over the decline in morals, and disgust in the lack of leadership in high places. “Don’t you agree?” he asked the visiting preacher.

“I expect you may be right,” the man of God said. “But let me remind you, the last time I checked despair was still a sin and hope a virture.”

Good reminder for us today. “Why are you cast down, O my soul? Hope thou in the Lord.” (Psalm 42:5).

Joe McKeever is director of missions of the Baptist Association of Greater New Orleans.

Have a tremendous Tuesday!

Anna Lee