For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves,

 in whom we have redemption,

the forgiveness of sins.

~Colossians 1:13-14~

Read the Bible in 2020 – November 12

Ezekiel 24:1-26:21
Hebrews 11:1-16
Psalm 110:1-7
Proverbs 27:14

Prayer Focus for Today

Please pray for all the people with Covid-19. Hardly a day goes by that I do not hear of one or more new cases in our area. Most cases seem to be mild, but some people are also struggling in ICU.

New Church Offices for FBC, Kentwood

This week the walls went up. Drive by to see the progress.

Operation Christmas Child

Lots of churches and individuals are working hard to complete their “shoeboxes” for 2020. Pray for the packers who are still working to get a few more ready for shipment.

Thankfulness – Day 12

Today, I am thankful the spirit of enthusiasm and Commitment I see in people. I think it is wonderful when they learn more about a mission opportunity and decide to invest in it. Julie, my sister, has learned a lot about Operation Christmas Child this year and has already started on “shoeboxes” for 2021. Let’s pray God blesses her with an abundant harvest of “shoeboxes” which will be instrumental in many young lives having the opportunity to learn about Jesus. May she also be able to influence her friends and family members with this mission opportunity this year.

Thinking ahead….

It’s time to consider the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering for 2020. This money is used by the IMB, International Mission Board, to share the Gospel in countries around the world. Without these funds, most of our missionaries would have to leave their field of service. One hundred percent of the money you give goes into supporting God’s work internationally. When you write your check, you simply need to designate it for Lottie Moon.

Each day givens us reasons to be thankful. May we be aware of our blessings each day.

Anna Lee

Yvonne Birch just called with a prayer request for her two month old great-granddaughter, Collins Antoon, who has just been admitted to the OLOL Children’s Hospital in Baton Rouge. Pray for the baby and the family as tests are done to identify the problem. Yvonne said she would greatly appreciate your prayers for the baby and the family. Thanks so much!

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

“BE VERY CAREFUL HOW YOU LIVE.

DO NOT LIVE LIKE THOSE WHO ARE NOT WISE.

I MEAN THAT YOU SHOULD USE EVERY CHANCE YOU HAVE FOR DOING GOOD, BECAUSE THESE ARE EVIL TIMES.LIVE WISELY.

I MEAN THAT YOU SHOULD USE EVERY CHANCE YOU HAVE FOR DOING GOOD, BECAUSE THESE ARE EVIL TIMES.

BUT LEARN WHAT THE LORD WANTS YOU TO DO.”

~EPHESIANS 5:15-17 (ICB)~

COVID-19 is still thriving in our area. Do your best to stay healthy. Pray for those who are sick.

THANKFULNESS – DAY 11

Today, I am thankful for those who were called to the medical profession. David’s illnesses have helped me to appreciate them more and more. Today, I am reporting that at the Ochsner appointment yesterday, David’s blood level was 11.9. You may remember how excited we were when his blood level reached 10.0 a couple months ago. He hasn’t had any treatment for almost two months, yet the blood is reproducing despite his blood cancer. We are so thankful to God and those who have the calling to serve in the medical field. What a difference you have made in our lives!

As a proud American, I am also thankful for those who served our country in the military or who are serving now. We have a grandson presently serving in the Air Force. My daddy serve in the Army Air Force during WWII. Thank-you to all who give the time to make our country safe for the rest of us.

Ralph Eugene Lee

July 13, 1946 – November 09, 2020

A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Monday, November 9, 2020 at St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington, LA. He was born July 13, 1946 in Clinton, LA and was 74 years of age. He was a U. S. Army Veteran of the Vietnam War. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Marie Chapman Lee; daughter, Tanya Lee Stevenson and husband, Brian; 2 sons, Tony Wayne Lee and wife, Charlotte, and Timothy Wade Lee and wife, Beth; 7 grandchildren, Kayla, Dusty, and Chance Stevenson, Jordan Lee, Maryanna and Macy Lee; step-grandson, Kody Sticker and wife, Rebecca; 2 great-grandchildren, Rylee and Riece Ray; brother, Sammie Lee and wife, Reba. Preceded in death by his parents, Henry Lee, Jr. And Edith Williams Lee; brothers, Bernard Lee, Paul Lee, Henry Lee, III, Ricky Lee, Timmy Lee and Chucky Lee; grandparents, Henry Lee, Pearl Travis, Leslie Williams, and Lillie Williams Newman; aunts and uncles, Aline and Bobby Williams and Nell and Gordan Pace. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6:00PM until 9:00PM on Thursday and at Shady Grove Baptist Church, Amite, on Friday, November 13, 2020 from 9:00AM until Religious Services at 12:00 Noon. Services conducted by Rev. Burdette Thomas. Interment Shady Grove Cemetery, Amite, LA. Pallbearers will be Roman Lee, Chance Stevenson, Jordan Lee, Garrett Sevin, Scott Loupe, Brian Anthony, Joshua Gautreaux, and Joe Lee. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

READ THE BIBLE IN 2020 – DAY 11

Ezekiel 23:1-49
Hebrews 10:18-39
Psalm 109:1-31
Proverbs 27:13

I am looking for VOLUNTEERS for the OCC Drop-Off Week. It is for two hour shifts. You can volunteer for as many or as few as fit your schedule.

Operation Christmas Child Drop-Off

310 Avenue E Kentwood, LA 70444-2518

Mon, Nov. 16: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tue, Nov. 17: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Wed, Nov. 18: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Thu, Nov. 19: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Fri, Nov. 20: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Sat, Nov. 21: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Sun, Nov. 22: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Mon, Nov. 23: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

You can reply to this post or call me. Don’t get left out on enjoying this blessing. You can choose one or more days to work. Remember, this will be VOLUNTEERS ONLY! Get your name on the list.

TODAY’S PRAYER FOCUS IN ON VOLUNTEERS FOR OCC COLLECTION WEEK

Thank-you for “tuning-in” this morning. Together, our prayers make a big difference.

Anna Lee

“Be very careful how you live.

Do not live like those who are not wise.

c

I mean that you should use every chance you have for doing good, because these are evil times.

I MEAN THAT YOU SHOULD USE EVERY CHANCE YOU HAVE FOR DOING GOOD, BECAUSE THESE ARE EVIL TIMES.

But learn what the Lord wants you to do.”

~Ephesians 5:15-17 (ICB)~

Covid-19 is still thriving in our area. Do your best to stay healthy. Pray for those who are sick.

Thankfulness – Day 11

Today, I am thankful for those who were called to the medical profession. David’s illnesses have helped me to appreciate them more and more. Today, I am reporting that at the Ochsner appointment yesterday, David’s blood level was 11.9. You may remember how excited we were when his blood level reached 10.0 a couple months ago. He hasn’t had any treatment for almost two months, yet the blood is reproducing despite his blood cancer. We are so thankful to God and those who have the calling to serve in the medical field. What a difference you have made in our lives!

As a proud American, I am also thankful for those who served our country in the military or who are serving now. We have a grandson presently serving in the Air Force. My daddy serve in the Army Air Force during WWII. Thank-you to all who give the time to make our country safe for the rest of us.

Ralph Eugene Lee

July 13, 1946 – November 09, 2020

READ THE BIBLE IN 2020 – DAY 11

Ezekiel 23:1-49
Hebrews 10:18-39
Psalm 109:1-31
Proverbs 27:13

I am looking for volunteers for the OCC Drop-Off Week. It is for two hour shifts. You can volunteer for as many or as few as fit your schedule.

Operation Christmas Child Drop-Off

310 Avenue E Kentwood, LA 70444-2518

Mon, Nov. 16: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tue, Nov. 17: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Wed, Nov. 18: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Thu, Nov. 19: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Fri, Nov. 20: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Sat, Nov. 21: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Sun, Nov. 22: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Mon, Nov. 23: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

You can reply to this post or call me. Don’t get left out on enjoying this blessing. You can choose one or more days to work. Remember, this will be volunteers only! Get your name on the list.

Today’s prayer focus in on volunteers for OCC Collection week

Thank-you for “tuning-in” this morning. Together, our prayers make a big difference.

Anna Lee

“Your word is a lamp for my feet,

a light on my path.”

~Psalm 119:105 (NIV)~

Mrs. Mildred Birch (90) will have rotator cuff surgery after Christmas. That gives us time to pray for a successful surgery and a good recovery. That gives her time to spend with her family during the holiday season.

Bryan Tate is again in MDA with pneumonia. Please pray for him.

Beth Graham Lee’s father-in-law, who lived east of Amite, passed away. I’ll post an obituary when it becomes available.

Cecile Levantino Cutrer

August 31, 1934 – November 09, 2020

Cecile Levantino Cutrer, a resident of Amite, LA, went to be with the Lord on Monday, November 9, 2020 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was born August 31, 1934 in Independence, LA and was 86 years of age. She is survived by her son, Alan Ross Cutrer; daughter, Wanda Cutrer Resse; granddaughter, Brandy Guy; sister, Sue Carpenter. Preceded in death by her husband, James Allen Cutrer; parents, Tony and Minnie Levatino; sister, Pat Chaney. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8:30AM until religious services at 11:30AM on Wednesday, November 11, 2020. Interment Hayden Grove Cemetery, Amite, LA. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hayden Grove Church of Christ, c/o Debbie Santora, P. O. Box 835 Amite, LA 70422. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.

Read the Bible in 2020 – November 10

Ezekiel 21:1-22:31
Hebrews 10:1-17
Psalm 108:1-13
Proverbs 27:12

Thankfulness – Day 10

Today, I’m thankful for a fire in the firepit, company from Virginia, a good visit, and BBQ last night. What a great way to visit with our son-in-law whom we haven’t seem since last Thanksgiving. The nighttime temperature, no mosquitoes, and watching a new stray cat helped make it a memorable evening. Sounds like we might need to do a repeat tonight!

Today’s prayer focus is on those who don’t see any reason to be thankful. May we all learn to count our blessings, the large ones and the small ones, every day. My mother-in-law was a wonderful example of someone who appreciated the “little things of life”. To her, they were the big things! May we all be more thankful to God and to others.

Anna Lee

“Whoever walks in integrity walks securely,

but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.”

~Proverbs 10:9 (NIV)~

Read the Bible in 2020 – November 9

Ezekiel 20:1-49
Hebrews 9:11-28
Psalm 107:1-43
Proverbs 27:11

Baptist Press

https://www.baptistpress.com/

Thankfulness – Day 9

Today, I am thankful for holidays. They cause us to step-up and do a little more. There’s cooking, cleaning, company, and lots of things to do. That’s part of the anticipation. The list can be expanded to include family, friends, memories, pictures, hugs (maybe not so much this year), family recipes, new recipes, traditions, etc. These are the rewards. After being limited in many ways this year due to the pandemic, I trust you will be able to have some special holidays. May they revive your spirit and encourage you to GIVE of yourself for the remainder of 2020. Whatever the holidays look like at your house, make than special in some way for those you love the most.

Today’s prayer focus is on the many people who will have no family members to celebrate the holidays with this year. Pray for them. You may have the opportunity to “put your feet to your prayers” this year. It is an awesome opportunity.

FBC, Kentwood had online services only again yesterday. Despite all the issues, we had two guest speakers yesterday. First, Joe Hutto of the Hillsdale area preached yesterday. He is the son-in-law of Bro. Darryl Miller. Last night, Boyd Hatchel, our son-in-law, shared about missions. He currently lives in Richmond, Virginia and serves on the global research team of the International Mission Board. If you missed these messages, I hope you will take the opportunity today to view them on Facebook or YouTube.

Hutto – https://www.facebook.com/KentwoodFirstBaptistChurch/videos/685366072119264

Hatchel – https://www.facebook.com/watch/live/?v=285750622679565&ref=notif&notif_id=1604879744504171&notif_t=live_video_explicit

Yes, the virus is continuing to control some of the church opportunities, but God and His work through guest speakers, empty pews, sickness of staff members and church members, etc. God’s love, power, and message are limitless!

Anna Lee

Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.

~2 Thessalonians 3:16~

Read the Bible in 2020 – November 8

Ezekiel 18:1-19:14
Hebrews 9:1-10
Psalm 106:32-48
Proverbs 27:10

Please continue to pray for Mrs. Doris Young who is still not well. Pray for her strength to continue to fight this battle. Pray for her family too.

Please pray for the churches in our area that are still unable to meet in person. As you pray for the churches, pray for the individuals of those churches, especially for those who are sick. Worship is both for group and individual participation. Most of our local churches now have other options for weeks when that is needed. One good benefit I have discovered it the option to participate in multiple church services some weeks. You may even have the option to attend your church in person and other churches online. For us, right now, it is all online.

Beverly J. Scott of Summit, Mississippi | 1948 – 2020 | Obituary

Mrs. Beverly Jones Scott, 72, of Summit, MS went to be with the Lord on Saturday, November 7, 2020 at Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center in McComb, MS.

Mrs. Beverly was born on August 5, 1948 in Natchez, MS and was the daughter of Ralph Jones and Imogene Steele Jones. She lived her life for her family. She lived a life of service, putting God first, her husband and children and later, her grandbabies. Although she was very active in her community and church, her value of family was her heartbeat and she cherished each moment spent with them. Her friends describe her as a woman of integrity, kindness and never without a smile. She was known by many as “Mrs. Bev”, “Aunt Beverly”, “Sister” but her favorite title was “MiMi”. She will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved her.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 48 years, Ernest Ray Scott; one brother, Ralph Donald Jones and one grand-daughter, Khloe Faith Price.

She is survived by her two daughters, Tara Price and Timmy of Summit, MS and Melanie Nichols and David of Summit, MS; two brothers, Mark Jones and Michelle of Texas and Chris Jones and Debbie of Texas; one sister, Kay Hutson of Meadville, MS; three grandchildren, Kaleb Price and Amber of Georgia, Kolbi Price and Kelee Price of Summit, MS and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, family and friends.

Visitation will be Monday, November 9, 2020 from 11AM until time of service at 1PM at Sharkey Funeral Home in Summit, MS with Dr. David Millican officiating the services. A burial will follow in Pike Memorial Gardens Cemetery in McComb, MS.

Pallbearers will be Tyler Scott, Darby Scott, Jerry R. Smith, Jerry Chapman, Bobby Thomas, Ira Cleveland, Roy Hendrick, Harry Young and Danny Easley.

We met the Scott family in the late 80’s. They were a blessing to our lives. May God continue to work in and through this family.

Thankfulness – Day 8

Today, I am thankful for the seasons God created for us. My favorite season has always been spring, but this year fall is running a close second. Spring has been my favorite because I usually spend days, and more days, working in my yard. The weather is “Just right”. This fall, I have been able to work outside (with much help from my husband) and have enjoyed different seasonal flowers. We like to work together in beautiful weather God created for us. The beauty of the flowers is something we both enjoy. It’s not for other people. It is for us! Even watering is a joy as we do it together. I think these two seasons provide a special togetherness that we both appreciate. It’s always fun to talk about what we want to do next. I’m thankful we have the time and health to do so this lovely fall season.

Today’s prayer focus is on churches. Pray for each one to be able to continue to serve their congregations well during these trying times. Pray for members to find ways to stay connected to each other and to God.

Anna Lee

“I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people – for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness“

(1 Timothy 2:1-2).

I forgot to include Baptist Press and the Louisiana Baptist Message, my routine for Fridays, so here they are a day late, but still a good read. These are two of my favorite sources of news.

https://www.baptistpress.com/

https://baptistmessage.com/

Many are sick around us. Pray for them. Be an encourager.

I’m happy to report that Sherry Grice is home and improving from her surgery.

Linda Diana Slaven Pittman

May 19, 1956 – November 04, 2020

Linda Diana Slaven Pittman, a resident of Denham Springs, LA. departed peacefully for her heavenly home on Wednesday November 4th 2020. She was born May 19, 1956 in Independence, LA. She was 64 years old. Linda was married for 39 years and is survived by her best friend and husband Johnny Pittman. Together they owned and managed several successful businesses in the Baton Rouge area. Johnny and Linda enjoyed their life together with friends and family. Having good times was a priority when they were younger and raising their very large family. Linda also worked for and retired from the Louisiana Lottery. Linda was a talented woman with many skills. She had a warrior spirit. A beautiful and petite woman, she was scared of nothing and no one. Her most recent years may have been her happiest. She was a homemaker and loved raising her Grandson Ty Swinney. She loved being at her home with the people she loved. She loved just sitting on her porch with her many flowers and plants that she was always so good at taking care of. Her bird and squirrel watching could fill entire days. She loved her children and grandchildren with great passion. Although many lived many miles away, she would always smile and light up at the mention of their names. Linda was at peace and was one with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Linda is survived by her daughter, Jackie Swinney and fiancé Jimmie Thomas. (Charleston, AR.) Son Shane Pittman (Denham Springs, LA.) Stepson John Pittman and wife Lynn (Charleston, AR.) Stepdaughters Darlene Sarley and husband Allen (Webb City, MO.) Michelle Dodd and husband Royal (Asbury, MO.) Naomi Pittman (St Charles, IL.) Brother Jack Hill (Magnolia, MS.) Sister Becky Faulkner (Magnolia, MS.) Grandchildren Courtney Cooper, Scott Sarley, Michael Schroeder, Brittany Washington, Ryan Pittman, Lauren Schroeder, Amber Sarley, Katie Chester, Devon Schroeder, Lawson Beadle, Austin Pittman, Meesha Dodd, Arlis Dodd, Ty Swinney, Kyler Pittman and Presley Thomas. Linda is also survived by 32 Great Grand Kids Linda was preceded in death by her Father Kenneth Slaven (Sunny Hill, LA.) Stepfather Jack Ford (Baton Rouge, LA.) Mother Barbara Crowe, Grandmother Beula Crowe, Grandfather Robert Crowe Sr. Sister Kathy Brewer Pallbearers are Jack Hill, Jimmie Thomas, Lawson Beadle and Shane Pittman. Visitation will be at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, LA. From 10:00 am to 12:00 pm Saturday, November 7th. Service to be conducted by Brother Dennis “Cotton” Pittman following visitation. Interment at Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA.

Read the Bible in 2020 – November 7

Ezekiel 16:42-17:24
Hebrews 8:1-13
Psalm 106:13-31
Proverbs 27:7-9

Thankfulness – Day 7

Today, I want to share my thankfulness for my son. Usually he is rather quiet, but the gears in his brain are spinning at a high speed. He can tease at times, but is also very compassionate. He takes action quickly when it is necessary. Many skills have been developed over the years.. He gives 100% of his time and effort to what is important to him. Our son loves his family and spends quality time with them. He is a good and helpful friend and willingly gives time and effort to help and encourage others. Some of his closest friends are church friends. He sets a good example for others in many ways.

Prayer Focus

Today, let’s focus on thanking God for our veterans and all those who helped form a great country where we can proudly live and raise our families. We can be thankful for the Christian nation they sought to provide. May we realize there are others watching and listening to us daily. May we pass on a good value system.

Anna Lee

 Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life,

and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

~Psalm 23:6~

Please pray for Beth Graham Lee’s father-in-law who had heart surgery Wednesday and developed complications Thursday.

Robert “Bobby” Ellis Palmer

September 20, 1930 – July 19, 2020

Courtland Lamar Hughes

Read the Bible in 2020 – Day 6

Ezekiel 14:12-16:41
Hebrews 7:18-28
Psalm 106:1-12
Proverbs 27:4-6

Audio Version

One Year Bible Audio And Commentary

Today’s prayer focus is for our country. May our people turn to Him for answers and assurance.

Operation Christmas Child Drop-Off

310 Avenue E Kentwood, LA 70444-2518

Mon, Nov. 16: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Tue, Nov. 17: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Wed, Nov. 18: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Thu, Nov. 19: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Fri, Nov. 20: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Sat, Nov. 21: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Sun, Nov. 22: 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Mon, Nov. 23: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM

(Times, but not days, vary from site to site.)

Thankfulness – Day 6

I’m thankful for my daughter. She changed our world when she was born and has continued to do so every since. Her pathway in life always takes unexpected turns to unexpected places. Her many talents are noticed and appreciated by others. She is accomplished in many areas of her life, but especially as a daughter, wife, mother, and as a “child of the King”. She loves people and is always looking for ways to be of service to others. She loves God and tells others through words and deeds about how important it is to have Jesus in their lives.

Be blessed today.

Anna Lee