Category: Praises, Requests, & Updates

Friday

“I sought the Lord, and He heard me.”

~Psalm 34:4a~

 

 

 

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

Prayer requests

“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

THIS TIME CALLED RAMADAN

Some of the children you meet in school come from other religions. This month, a few of your classmates may be celebrating the month of Ramadan. It’s called a pillar of the Muslim faith. All month long, strict Muslims will fast (not eat any food) during the day. Then they will get together with friends and family to feast each evening. Many Muslim families will also spend extra time reading or listening to the Koran. The Koran is the book of instruction they follow. It is always read in public places in the Arabic language. Most Muslims do not understand Arabic, so they might not understand what they are reading or hearing.

In Central, Eastern and Southern Africa, Muslims work hard all day to set up tables and chairs, prepare food, and get the music ready. About 10:30 at night, everyone gets together for a big party. Women come in elegant and colorful clothes. But no one knows Jesus.

In lots of places in Northern Africa and the Middle East, it is over 120 degrees during the daytime. Really strict Somali Muslims do not eat or drink anything all day long. Think about it. Women are cooking outside over hot stoves. Children are fasting for the first time. Please pray for them not to get sick from the heat and not drinking any water.

Pray for your Muslim classmates and Muslims all over the world. Pray that they will want to read the Bible and hear what God has to say about the love of Jesus. Ask God to help them find Bibles in their own languages and to help them understand the truth they read and hear from the Bible.


MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Pray that I will make more friends. SEALIE, age 8 (Pacific Rim)

A friend of mine, Anna, died in a bike accident and we were really good friends. I am still trying to get over it. Please pray for me. KELLY, age 11 (Pacific Rim)

I live in Nepal and my Dad is the L.C. That stands for Logistics Coordinator (a person who helps others find a house, organize travel, make plans for visitors, and more). Nepali language is mostly Hindi and has the same script (letters). “Daal Baat” is rice and lentils. We eat that some times. My prayer is that my dad will be even more helpful in his work (but he’s very helpful!) Thank you. Also, I want to have the Nepali people learn more about Jesus. TAMARA, age 11 (South Asia)

Please pray that my friends become Christians. Please help me to do better in math

CALEB, age 11 (Pacific Rim)

Please pray for my family. We have moved to another country…I am a person of few words JONATHAN, age 12, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Please pray for me to do well in school and make good friends. I like to tell people that Jesus loves them, it is fun to be a missionary kid. ELIJAH, age 6 (South America)

Please pray for the people of Madagascar. Even the ones who believe in Jesus have beliefs tied to their ancestors. It can be very hard for my family and quite frightening in October when the people parade the bones of their ancestors around town. None of my friends at school are Christians, and it is very difficult to be a light in the darkness. Thankfully, more and more missionaries seem to be coming to Madagascar. LYDIA, age 13, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

Pray for my temper and the way I treat my sisters and parents. Pray for my friend that is lost (her name is Ishu). KRISTA, age 12 (South Asia)

Pray that I have a new friend, all my friends moved away. HANNAH, age 7 (Pacific Rim)

Please pray for people to be receptive and open to the gospel. Pray for us to be able to reach them. Pray, too, for people all over the world to listen to God when He calls them to the mission field. So many more need to be reached and there aren’t enough people telling them. ANN, age 17, (Central, Eastern and Southern Africa)

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. Please pray for missionaries Chris and Katie Nalls, who will begin studying Portuguese in September. Pray that God will bless them with many opportunities to converse with people. Since they were both journeymen in the country of Mozambique and are now returning as a married couple with a precious baby, they already know some Portuguese. Pray that they will recall all the Portuguese that they knew before, and ask for a good adjustment to Maputo, Mozambique. Pray for them as they juggle language study and family time. Finally, ask God to strengthen them and encourage them, giving them diligence and perseverance as they study.

As we thank God Hurricane Ike is going to have only a slight effect on our area, pray for those in the path of the storm. Pray for wise decisions as preparations are made. Pray for smooth traveling for those who evacuate. Pray for quick and adequate response of disaster relief agencies.

TeamRomany Blog

John 18:37

In fact, for this reason, I was born,

and for this I came into the world,

to testify to the truth.

He was deserted by his followers. He was attacked by his enemies. He was rejected by the religious leaders who were looking for him. He was following a course of action that was not his first choice. He was tired. He was embarrassed.

But, He didn’t retaliate. He didn’t curse or blaspheme the desire of His father. He listened to the rebukes and kept silent. He was calm, respectful, and gentle.

The storm came into Jesus’ life and the chaos revealed his true identity. He knew the moment for his life. His purpose on the earth was coming in bright light.

I’ve wondered at times about my purpose, my contribution, and my ‘after it’s over worth’ bottom line. Apart from the Master, there is only a fleeting feeling of worth and importance. Apart from bringing attention to the Master, my best efforts are only selfish and short-sighted. Apart from interacting with others about eternal matters, crisis will implode our goals and reveal our weaknesses.

‘To testify, to bear witness’ means to give credit to God for the good, to direct other’s attention to eternal matters, and to focus upon divine and spiritual truth. Testifying doesn’t always mean in public, on the platform, or ‘church talk’. ‘Testifying’ is relaying true information about experiences, not only crimes or misdemeanors, but spiritual realities. What you haven’t experienced, you cannot share with another. What we have experienced should not stop with us. Pass it along.

So what?

1) Have you / have I experienced a life-changing reality with God which is shaping each day of my life?

2) Am I sharing that experience with others which will shape theirs and my eternity?

3) Does my purpose or passion change or evolve with time, experience, and situation?

Happy Friday! Make today count!

Anna Lee

Thursday Afternoon

Pam Forrest just called with two requests:

  1. Scott Foster, husband of Lori and son-in-law of Dennis and Alice Frazier, is being treated for symptoms of West Nile. The family requests your prayers for Scott.
  2. Brittney Hayden, daughter of Pam Holden, is hospitalized in McComb where she had surgery Monday. Her family would also appreciate your prayers.

Kyle Brabham‘s biopsy reports have all come back clear. Thank God for the good reports. Pray for Kyle and his family as he continues to have different treatments.

Allie Daigle was able to come home today. Her family appreciates your continued prayers for her as she recovers from surgery in New Orleans yesterday.

Thursday – 2nd Addition

Big 10 from teamromany September 2008

1. FARM debriefing will be held in Romania on September 26-27. Please pray for the students who will take part. Pray that this weekend will allow them to share their experiences with others who participated in the project. Pray that our team will learn from this year to make next year’s projects even better.

2. Pray for Ladislav, a Romany musician in Brno. Pray that he would begin to seek the Lord.

3. Teamromany will hold a summit on October 9-10. IMB missionaries who work with Roma throughout Central and Eastern Europe will meet in Prague to share ideas, resources, and plan future ministry.

4. Please pray for our outreach group in Ostrava, Czech Republic. International World Changers worked with us in the Muglinov community in July. As part of the follow-up from the evangelism that took place then, we formed a Bible storying group. Pray for the new believers and those who are seeking as they learn God’s word and how it can change their lives. Pray for Boyd and Joe as they travel to Ostrava for these sessions.

5. Please pray for our park ministry in Brno, Czech Republic. On Friday afternoon, teamromany members go to a park in the primary Romany neighborhood. They play games and interact with members of the community. God is using this time to help us develop relationships and share the Gospel. Pray that those who here will begin to respond in faith.

6. Pray for Boyd as he travels to Poland for a strategy coordinator meeting on September 17-20. Pray for Jennie and the children as they remain in Brno.

7. Thank God for a volunteer team from Bob and Gayle’s home church, First Baptist Dyer, Tennessee, who are in Braila, Romania with the Hills this week. The volunteers are leading Bible studies in homes each day. Thank God for their witness.

9. Please pray for Daniel as he ministers in Romany communinities around Cluj, Romania. Pray for his strength and stamina as he works many long days.

10. Pray for Joe and Julie Silby as they have begun full-time Czech language study. Pray that God would give them recall of the information they have learned and opportunities to be a witness for Christ even during this time of language study.

Last month we asked you to pray for our MKs and our homeschooling Moms as the new school year started. We’re all off to a great start. Thank you for praying.

Thank you for praying with us and for us.

Teamromany

Daniel Byrd – Romania

Boyd and Jennie Hatchel – Czech Republic

Bob and Gayle Hill – Romania

Joe and Julie Silby – Czech Republic

teamromany.com

wagonmissions.blogspot.com


Thursday

God does not give us a spirit of fear,

but a spirit of power, love and self-control.

~2 Timothy 1:7 (NLT)~

Update on Larry Watts from James Rimes

I spoke to Larry yesterday (Tuesday) and he sounded much better. One of his doctors told him that he could probably be released (to rehab) this week if he continues to do well. Please continue to pray for Larry and the family.

Please continue to pray for little Allie Daigle as she returns home. Pray she will be able to stay off her foot until it heals properly.

Baptist Press

September 10, 2008

TENNESSEE–Gustav, Ike ravage Cuba; Baptists launch relief. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28875

INDIA–Anti-Christian violence continues in India. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28876

CALIFORNIA–ELECTION 08: Calif. pro-lifers change strategy for 3rd parental notification vote. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28877

NORTH CAROLINA–LifeWay sees ministry results in tough economy. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28878

NORTH CAROLINA–New LifeWay initiative: ‘Transformational Church.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28879

LOUISIANA–Gustav victims hear volunteers’ witness. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28881

TEXAS–Missions-minded music prof dies. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28882

TENNESSEE–FIRST PERSON (David Francis): Sunday School supports church’s mission. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28883

Fred Luter in Chapel: When the storm comes’
By Michael McCormack
NEW ORLEANS (BP)–For New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary, reopening after its Hurricane Gustav evacuation, Sept. 9’s chapel service became a time of thanksgiving and reunion — and words of encouragement from New Orleans pastor Fred Luter.

Because of widespread power outages and Louisiana law prohibiting habitation of multi-family housing with no utilities, many NOBTS apartment dwellers could not return to the campus until Saturday, Sept. 6. That amounted to a weeklong absence for many seminarians.

In welcoming students, faculty and staff back to campus, NOBTS President Chuck Kelley encouraged them to view difficult experiences like Hurricane Gustav in light of God’s refining work. Kelley compared that work to intense fire that produces steel and intense pressure that produces diamonds.

“There’s no way for us to become who God wants us to be without going through the fire and the pressure,” Kelley said at the Tuesday gathering. “All of this is to prepare you to have a word for those people you will be leading.”

Kelley gave thanks that New Orleans and coastal Louisiana were spared from what was predicted to be a devastating storm. He also reminded that not all of the seminary family has gone untouched through the 2008 hurricane season.

New Orleans Seminary has partnerships with Baptists in both Haiti and Cuba, two island countries that have been battered by multiple hurricanes this year.

Kelley concluded his welcome by reading Psalm 46, a psalm appropriate for both the person spared from calamity and the person struggling to recover. Regardless the circumstance, Kelley said, God’s mercy is reliable.

Tuesday’s chapel speaker, Fred Luter, pastor of New Orleans’ Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, titled his message “What to do when the storm comes.”

“Somewhere between the time of your first breath and your last breath,” Luter said, “storms will come your way. And my concern is not that we have storms and tribulation but what we do when the storm comes.”

Luter then offered a glimpse into his personal faith struggle following Hurricane Katrina.

“Do you know what I have discovered?” Luter asked. “I’ve discovered that when trouble comes our way faith is the first area that Satan works on.”

Luter said he remembers sitting in his daughter’s apartment in Birmingham, Ala., in August 2005 as Hurricane Katrina approached the Gulf Coast. His faith was shaken.

“I looked at what was going on [in New Orleans] and I looked up and said, ‘God, why don’t You do something?'” Luter recounted. “For the first time in my life, ladies and gentlemen, my faith was literally shaken unlike it had ever been shaken before.”

Not only was he mad at government leaders and agencies, Luter said he was mad at God. But through that experience, Luter said he learned afresh to trust God.

“I have discovered that every now and then God will allow you and me to get into a situation where we can’t trust in mama, daddy, the pastor, the president, the government or the mayor,” he said. “Your back is against the wall and all you can do is trust in God.

“If you don’t have faith, you have fear,” Luter continued. “And if the enemy can get you to fear, he can get you to doubt everything God has told you in His Word.”

Luter pointed to Mark 4:35-41, the account of Jesus calming the storm. To strengthen their faith in times of trouble, Luter challenged the chapel audience to first remember the promises of Jesus.

In verse 35, Jesus told the disciples, “Let us pass over to the other side.” And yet when a fierce storm threatened the boat, the disciples feared they were about to drown. Luter pointed out that their fear could have been quickly quelled if only the disciples would have remembered the purposes and promises of Jesus.

“Jesus didn’t come to drown,” Luter said. “He didn’t come to drown; he came to die on the cross…. He couldn’t drown because He’d said, ‘Boys, let’s go to the other side.'”

Just as the disciples in the boat could have found confidence in the words of Jesus, so Christians today can find confidence in the promises of God during times of trouble. For instance, Psalm 34:19 states, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”

Luter also said Christians must remember the presence of Jesus. He said Jesus could have easily sent the disciples across the lake while He stayed behind to rest. Instead, Jesus opted to go along with them in the boat. Christians can find encouragement and confidence in the fact that Jesus was in the boat and in the storm with the disciples.

“My brothers and my sisters, I don’t care what you’re going through. I don’t care what the enemy brings against you. I don’t care what trials or tribulations or storm it might be. If you’ve accepted Jesus into your life, He’s walking with you,” Luter said. “His grace is with you. His mercy is with you. … He’s walking with you. He’s there all the time.”

And, pointing to the power of Jesus, Luter compared the water crashing over the sides of the disciples’ boat to the waves splashing over the walls of the Industrial Canal in New Orleans during Hurricane Gustav. The New Orleans pastor noted: With only three simple words — “Peace, be still” — Jesus brought calm to the situation.

Michael McCormack is a writer for New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

9-11

 

PRAYER IN TIME OF WAR

A young guy in a two-engine fighter was flying escort for a B-52 and generally being a nuisance, acting like a hotdog, flying rolls around the lumbering old bomber.

The hotdog said over the air, “Anything you can do, I can do better.”

The veteran bomber pilot answered, “Try this hot-shot.” The B-52 continued its flight, straight and level.

Perplexed, the hotdog asked, “So? What did you do?”

“I just shut down two engines, kid.”

Virtually every day, we are reminded when we turn on the television or pick up the newspaper that there is a war going on in Iraq. These are difficult times, and we all feel the urgent need to spend more time with God in prayer. We pray for the safety of our troops. We pray for a quick end to the conflict. But, beyond that, what should we pray for?

In 2003, Ron Hutchcraft sent out an e-mail entitled “10 Ways to Pray in Times Like These” (http://www.christianitytoday.com/todayschristian/special/10waystopray.html). His suggestions are still good ones. Here are 7 of his points:

1. “Lord, do something that will show people Your glory over all the earth.”

This is a moment for God to do something that no diplomat, no world leader, no army could possibly do – so all will know that “the Lord He is God.”

2. “Lord, use these anxious and uncertain times to bring many to Christ.”

God can use this fearful time to reach the hearts of many – in Iraq, in America, across the Middle East, among the young men and women of the military.

3. “Lord, guide our leaders to be instruments of Your will on earth.”

“I urge … that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone – for kings and all those in authority.” (I Timothy 2:1-2)

4. “Lord, protect the innocent.”

5. “Pray for those who mistreat you.” (Luke 6:27)

Jesus has charged us to represent even our enemies before His Throne of Grace.

6. “Lord, help Your people model peace in these troubled times, pointing the people around them to Jesus – at a time when hearts are soft.”

This uncertain time is a life-saving moment – when those who belong to Jesus have an unusual window to introduce Him to those who don’t. But the window may not be open for long.

7. “Lord, bring peace out of all that’s happening.”

God has told us that the result He desires in answer to our prayers for our leaders is a climate where peace and righteousness can flourish (I Tim. 2:2).

My appreciation goes out to Ron Hutchcraft for his article, and I hope that his prayers will be yours as well. We live in troubled times that serve as a reminder of just how much we need God.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thank God we had not had any more terrorist attacks in the United States. Thank God for the political and military officials who have made many difficult decisions regarding fighting terrorism and sending troops into war. Thank God for the many people in uniform who have served since 9-11. Pray for the families of each one. Pray for the military personnel who were injured in the war zone and for their families as they face medical disabilities and treatments of their loved ones. Pray for the families of those whose lives have been given since 9-11 to provide freedom for others and to fight the spread of terrorism. Thank God for each person who has volunteered to serve in our military.

Anna Lee

Tuesday

“Hear, O Lord, when I cry with my voice!

Have mercy also upon me, and answer me.”

~Psalm 27:7~

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. Ben and Kumiko Collins, International Service Corps workers in Japan, need your prayers for their new daughter. She was born prematurely on Sept. 4, 2008, about six weeks from her due date. At birth, there was no movement, so she was given medication to help her brain rest for a few days. As of Sept. 8, she has been taken off this medication but still is not showing signs of movement. She is receiving breast milk through a feeding tube and digesting that well. The next step will be to see if she exhibits any other normal bodily functions. Please pray for this child, as the doctors are trying to understand what is happening and what care she should be receiving. Pray for the parents and their older son, since this is very difficult on the entire family. Pray for our Great Physician to touch this child and bring her healing, and ask for the peace and rest that Jesus offers to be felt by Ben and Kumiko at this time.

MISSIONARY PERSONAL NEEDS. Personnel in one Asian country write: “Because of tighter requirements for visas, many on our team still have to travel out for months at a time, and there may be only one family in the country in September at best (out of seven). Six families are currently on the hunt for a new visa. Please pray for 12-month work permits for every husband, and pray that all of the document issues will be worked out for the team to be able to live and work in the homeland of our people group.”


Pray for Jason Dean as the medication he has been taking doesn’t seem to have cured his throat problem. He’ll see the specialist again.

Sylvia Watson’s surgery was Thursday. She’s back in the Pine Ridge community and doing well. Please continue to pray for her.

Kyle Brabham continues to recover from last month’s outpatient surgery. Yesterday, he had treatment on his arm. Please continue to pray for Kyle and his family.

Pray for the people who were in the path of Hurricane Gustav as they try to return to normalcy. Pray for the people in the path of Hurricane Ike as they prepare for the storm. Pray for wise decisions.

Christine S. Gulotta
(June 27, 1932 – September 5, 2008)

Mrs. Christine S. Gulotta, a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister was born June 27, 1932 in Independence, LA and passed away September 5, 2008 at the North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was 76, and a resident of Independence. Mrs. Christine was the daughter of the late Joseph and Pauline Sirchia. She is survived by a son, John Joseph Gulotta and daughter-in-law, Cathy Wascom Gulotta, Independence; three sisters, Frances Costa, Independence, Lena Costa, Independence, and Katherine Giartiano, New Orleans; a brother, Frank Sirchia, Independence; three grandchildren, Ashley Gulotta Guzzardo and husband, Russ, Amite, Lacey Gulotta, Independence, Blaine Gulotta, Independence; two great-grandchildren, Bethainee and Bryelle Guzzardo; also numerous nieces and nephews.She was also preceded in death by her husband, Joseph Lawrence Gulotta; a brother, John Sirchia; a sister, Annie Cacioppo.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Tuesday, September 9, 2008 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, September 10, 2008 from 8:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. Religious Services at Mater Dolorosa Catholic Church, Independence, at 10:00 a.m. Interment at the Colonial Cemetery Mausoleum.

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

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

Lucille Sullivan
(October 20, 1939 – September 4, 2008)

Mrs. Lucille Sullivan was born October 20, 1939 in Independence, LA, and passed away September 4, 2008 in Aberdeen, MS. She was 68, and a resident of Loranger. Mrs. Lucille was the daughter of the late John & Lula Mae Williams. She is survived by her husband, Mullen E. Sullivan, Loranger; 2 sons, Mullen E. Sullivan, Jr. and wife, Teresa, Aberdeen, MS and Eddie Timberlake and wife, Gail, Loranger; 14 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Gwendolyn Viola Boudreaux and a brother, Eugene Williams.

Visitation will be at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, on Monday, September 8, 2008 from 9:00 a.m. until Religious Services at 3:00 p.m. in the Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Marshall Wallace officiating. Interment in the Briar Patch Cemetery.

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

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

Antoinette Liuzza Mason
(June 13, 1937 – September 7, 2008)

Died at 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, September 7, 2008 at the age of 70 years at her residence in Amite. She was born September 13, 1937 in Independence. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday. Mass of Christian Burial Services will be held at St. Helena Catholic Church, Amite, at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Services conducted by Fr. Joe Camilleri. Interment Amite Cemetery, Amite. She is survived by her son, Edward G. Mason, III and wife, Mary “Pat” Bellott Mason, Amite; 5 grandchildren, Christy of Amite, Nicholas of Jasper, TX, Thomas of Corpus Christi, TX, Micheal of Amite, Catherine of Amite; 2 great-grandsons, Jacob and Nathan; 2 brothers, Jack N. Liuzza, Sr. of Amite, Anthony “Fuzzy” Liuzza of Independence. She was preceded in death by her husband, Edward G. Mason, Jr.; parents, Nicholas J. & Jennie Carreca Liuzza; son, Nicholas A. Mason, Sr. She was the Medical Lab Director at Hood Memorial Hospital and a Member of Community Advisory Committee (CAC) with LSU Lallie Kemp Medical Center.

Baptist Press

September 8, 2008

CHINA–Good news overshadowed by bad in China. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28857

WASHINGTON–State Department urged to penalize Vietnam. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28858

WASHINGTON–Pelosi’s archbishop invites her to meet on abortion. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28859

GEORGIA–As Ike looms, relief workers take precautions. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28865

LOUISIANA–Collegians were ready for post-Gustav ministry. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28860

ALABAMA–Dellanna O’Brien, former WMU exec, dies at 75. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28861

WASHINGTON–FIRST-PERSON (Terry Mattingly): On the count of three — pray. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28862

VIRGINIA–FIRST-PERSON (Ken Connor): Deadly intentions. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28864

LOUISIANA–New Orleans seminary partially reopens. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28856

SEEING OTHERS AS WE SHOULD

A man dressed as Napoleon went to see a psychiatrist at the urging of his wife. “What’s your problem?” the doctor asked.

“I have no problem,” the man replied. “I’m one of the most famous people in the world. I have a great army behind me. I have all the money I’ll ever need, and I live in great luxury.”

“Then why are you here?”

“It’s because of my wife,” the man said. “She thinks she’s Mrs. Smith.”

Pride tends to do two things with us. It causes us to see ourselves as more important than what we really are. That’s why Paul wrote, “…Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought…” (Rom. 12:3, NIV).

But pride also causes us to see other people as less important than what they are. Someone has described us as having a “crab mentality.” The term refers to a pot of crabs in which one tries to escape over the side, but is relentlessly pulled down by the others in the pot. As humans, we often act the same way. If we can’t be somebody great, we can at least pull down others around us so that we look better by comparison!

In the Corinthian church, there was a lot of competition involving spiritual gifts. Those who had the more prominent or public gifts, such as the ability to preach or the ability to speak in different languages, regarded themselves as superior to those who held what they viewed as “less significant” gifts. Paul says, though:

“On the contrary, those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the parts that we think are less honorable we treat with special honor….But God has combined the members of the body and has given greater honor to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.” (I Cor. 12:22-25, NIV).

May God help us not only to ourselves as He sees us, but to see others around us as He sees them as well.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

I wish and pray you have the best day you have had in the last week or so.

Anna Lee

Sunday

Hurricane Gustav – Day 7

David located some power trucks on the side of the road and led them to the cabin. We got electricity about 8:45 this morning. We are thankful for the many blessings of this week!

Many people are still without electricity (which often means without water). Do what you can to help them get through this period of time. You’ll be richly blessed.

Everyone has Gustav stories, but most seem to be about God’s protection and blessings.

I have to return to church for 4:00, so I will stop for now. I’ll try to get back on regular schedule in the morning.

If you have any prayer requests, updates, to praises to share, please send them to me or call me by phone (which is also now working).

Anna Lee

Friday

Hurricane Gustav – Day 5

Life is progressing, but still not normally for many people. It has been interesting to hear where electrical power has and has not been restored. Most people are making the most of their circumstances as they count their blessings. It has been heartwarming to hear people in need to tell you to help someone else whose need is greater! What a Christian spirit!

Since I’m on someone else’s computer, I’ll be brief again today. I have one birth announcement, funeral updates, and Baptist Press articles to share.

David Mark Smith III “TREA” arrived Saturday, August 30th at 2:54p.m. He weighed 7lbs 14oz.
Trea and Mommy are both at home and doing great.
Trea’s parents are David and Monica Estes Smith.

The entire family give thanks to the lord for such a wonderful blessing!

Two funerals services were held this morning. I couldn’t be in two places at once, so I atteded the services for J.L. Williams. It was indeed a special time. The wake for Richard Dunn will be in the morning at McKneely-Vaughn from 9:00 until the funeral at 1:00. Burial will be at Kedron. Please continue to pray for the families who lost loved ones this week.

Baptist Press

September 4, 2008

LOUISIANA–Gustav evacuees find Baptists waiting to help. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28834

FLORIDA–Church’s Gustav shelter: ‘hands & feet of Christ.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28835

LOUISIANA–Electricity problems delay NOBTS reopening. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28836

CALIFORNIA–400 goats visit Golden Gate Seminary. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28837

TENNESSEE–Seminary convocations set forth challenges. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28838

LOUISIANA–EDUCATION BRIEFS: Louisiana College begins master’s degree program. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28839

NORTH CAROLINA–Hawkins urges: Reclaim fear of God. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28840

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Gary D. Myers): Evacuation brings unexpected blessing. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28841

Help a neighbor and be blessed!

Anna Lee

Thursday

Gustav – Day 4

Progress is being made, but many, many people are without electricity and water. They seem to have a wonderful attitute and are appreciative of anything you can do for them. Many people from further south are learning they do have a home to go back to, even if there is some damage. Also, many people are spending hours on the interstate trying to get back home.

Continue to thank God for the many ways people have been spared this week. Thank him for family, friends, and strangers who have taken time to help one another. Pray for safety as people travel and as they work around downed lines and fallen trees.

I want to include two Baptist Press emails and four obituaries. The timing of the deaths this week seems to have made the deaths even more difficult.

Lucille Lewis Pierre
(March 3, 1932 – September 1, 2008)

Died at 12:20 p.m. on Monday, September 1, 2008 at her residence in Husser, LA. She was a native of Independence, LA. Age 76 years. Visitation at New Sharon Baptist Church, Husser, from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Thursday and from 9 a.m. until religious services at 12 Noon Friday. Services conducted by Rev. Kent Newell. Interment New Sharon Cemetery, Husser, LA. Survived by son, Landry Bruce Pierre, Sr., Husser, sister, Sylvia Populus, Uneedus, brother, Royd Lewis, Loranger, 3 grandchildren, Jessica Saragusa, Adam Bernard Capdeboscq, Sr., Landry Bruce Pierre, Jr., 4 great-grandgrandchildren. Preceded in death by husband, Louis V. “Boyge” Pierre, Jr., parents, Ollie and Spencer Lewis, daughter, Cynthia Anquenette Capdeboscq, 10 brothers and sisters. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

John M. Newman
(August 20, 1923 – August 31, 2008)

Died at 1:15 pm on Sunday, August 31, 2008 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. He was a native of Magnolia, MS and a resident of Hammond, LA. Age 85 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. on Friday until religious services at 10 a.m. Friday. Services conducted by Rev. Mitch Williams. Interment Colonial Mausoleum, Independence, LA. Survived by sister, Lois LaBauve, numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents, 3 sisters, Helen Yentgen, Myrtle Courtney, and Winnie Cox.

Richard W. Dunn

(June 11, 1943 – September 1, 2008)

Richard W. Dunn, the greatest Husband, Daddy, and a most beloved Son and Brother was born July 11, 1943 and passed away at 2:20 P.M., Monday, September 1, 2008, at his residence in Amite. He was 65 and a native of Independence. Richard was the son of Mrs. Eula Jenkins and the late Woodrow Dunn. Richard was the most generous businessman our community ever knew. He also was a man who loved the challenge of hard work and his greatest joy was knowing he was called “Paw Paw”.

Richard is survived by his wife of 43 years, Kathryn Daniel Dunn, Amite; 4 daughters, Lori Ballard, Dana Dunn, Kelly Sofge and husband, Ben, and Krsiten Davis all of Amite; mother, Mrs. Eula Jenkins, Amite; 4 sisters, Jeanette Armato, Independence; Evelyn Pittman, Kentwood; Diane Scott, Shreveport; and Rita Blades, Amite; 2 brothers, Leroy Wilson, Shreveport; and Charles Dunn, Amite; 6 grandchildren, Jade Patton, Raina Sofge, Emma Sofge, Savannah Ballard, Richard Chasen Ballard, and Joshua Davis, also numerous aunts, uncles, and extended family. Preceded in death by father, Woodrow Dunn, and 2 brothers, Calvin Wilson and M.L. Wilson.

Visitation will be Saturday, September 6, 2008 from 9:00 A.M. at the McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, until Religious Services at 1:00 P.M. in the Funeral Home Chapel. Services conducted by Rev. Herb Cowan with interment in the Kedron 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.

James Lathan Williams Sr., 81, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, Aug. 31, 2008, while working on his farm in Kentwood. He was born June 24, 1927, son of Jim and Dora Hughes Williams. J.L.’s passion was farming. He was a dairy farmer for 25 years and for the last 20 years remained a beef cattleman. He was a member of First Baptist Church in Kentwood and was a U.S. Navy veteran of World War II. Preceded in death by his parents; a daughter, Pamela Williams McBride; stepfather, Eddie Williams; four sisters, Edith Cuzzort, Alice Daspit, Juanita Mears and Genell Varnado; and two brothers, LeRoy and Robert Williams. Survived by his wife of 55 years, Wanzie Sharkey Williams, of Kentwood; three sons, James Lathan Williams Jr. and wife Wendy, of Baton Rouge, Stan Williams and wife Visa, of Mandeville, and Gary Williams and wife Reneé, of Baton Rouge; six grandchildren, James Lathan Williams III, Derrick Williams, Chad Williams, Chloe Williams and Zach Williams, all of Baton Rouge, Cory Harold and wife Jessica, of Walker; stepgrandson, Jason Clem, of Fayetteville, Ark.; great-granddaughter, Sydnie Williams, of Baton Rouge; brother, Bruce Williams and wife Mary, of Hammond; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation at First Baptist Church of Kentwood on Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday from 8 a.m. until service at 11 a.m., with the Rev. Joey Miller officiating. Burial in Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood. Arrangements by Hartman-Sharkey Funeral Home, McComb, Miss.

Baptist Press

September 2, 2008

LOUISIANA–Minimal Gustav damage at New Orleans Seminary. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28821

GEORGIA–Baptist feeding units begin their work as weakened Gustav advances inland. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28820

OKLAHOMA–Native American churches launch new organization. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28822

ALASKA–Alaska’s grandeur is church’s mission setting. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28823

TENNESSEE–CP: 0.88% ahead of 2007 pace. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28824

NORTH CAROLINA–FIRST-PERSON (Andrea Higgins): Don’t use the ‘R’ word. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28825

September 3, 2008

GEORGIA–2,000 refugees in Gori fed by Texas volunteers. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28827

MISSISSIPPI–SBC disaster relief teams rolling into Louisiana. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28833

LOUISIANA–Gustav spawns ministry by La., Miss. Baptists. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28828

LOUISIANA–Texting keeps New Orleans seminary alert. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28831

TENNESSEE–Connecting young adults to the things of God. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28830

NEW YORK–N.Y. judge says governor can order ‘gay marriage’ recognized. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28829

TEXAS–FIRST-PERSON (Tamara Quintana): Preventive care begins with you. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28832

GEORGIA–Relief teams battle lingering winds, rain in Gustav’s wake. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=28826

God has taken good care of me this week. I trust you can say the same. Be sure to thank Him.

Anna Lee