Category: WMU

Wednesday

On coming to the house,

they saw the child with his mother Mary,

and they bowed down and worshiped him.

Then they opened their treasures

and presented him with gifts of gold,

frankincense

and myrrh.  

And having been warned in a dream

not to go back to Herod,

they returned to their country by another route.

~Matthew 2:11-12~

Hymn of the Day – “We Three Kings”

 

Remember the Don Alexander family in your prayers.  Contact Dawson Primes to help.

 http://www.theadvocate.com/new_orleans/news/crime_police/article_3d6dd7fe-cc6f-11e6-82e2-8f1493a817fe.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter&utm_campaign=user-share

(This fire was at the location of the site of where David and I lived our from 1967-1970, long before the house was built.)

 

William Joseph “Billy” Guzzardo
Robert “Bob” Lee Holmes

 

Scripture Writing – Philipians 2:9-12

Article shared by our son-in-law, Boyd

https://www.imb.org/2016/12/27/five-fundamentals-of-mentorship/

I think there is a message/opportunity for all of us here.

Children in Action and other regular services for adults and youth will be held tonight at FBC, Kentwood.  I’m looking forward to seeing the children at 6 P.M.

 

What does God have planned for you today?

Anna Lee

 

 

 

Tuesday

Shout for joy, you heavens;

rejoice, you earth;

burst into song, you mountains!

For the LORD comforts his people

and will have compassion on his afflicted ones.

~Isaiah 49:13~

 

 

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

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

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

 

Scripture Writing – Luke 1:46-50

Baptist Press – bpnews.com

La. Baptist Message – baptistmessage.com

 

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

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

 

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

 

“While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks”

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Monday

In that day they will say,

“Surely this is our God;

we trusted in him, and he saved us.

This is the LORD, we trusted in him;

let us rejoice and be glad in his salvation.”

~Isaiah 25:9~

 

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

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

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

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

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

 

Frank “Billy” Leroy Denham, Jr.

February 28, 1943 – December 18, 2016

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

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

Scripture Writing – Luke 1:46-50

 

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

 

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

because of the tender mercy of our God,

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

~Luke 1:76-78 (NIV)~

 

“There’s a Song in the Air”

 

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

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday

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

because he has come to his people and redeemed them.

He has raised up a horn of salvation for us

in the house of his servant David

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

~ Luke 1:68-70 (NIV)~

 

 

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

 

Scripture Writing – Luke 1:30-34

 

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

“O Little Town of Bethlehem”

 

Thom S. Rainer – thomrainer.com

Waylon Bailey – waylonbailey.com

 

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

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

 

Sunday

Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign:

The virgin will conceive and give birth to a son,

and will call him Immanuel.

~ Isaiah 7:14 (NIV)~

 

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

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

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

 

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

 

“Away in a Manger”

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

Anna Lee

 

 

Saturday

“You will all be joined together,

and you will give glory to God

the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Christ accepted you,

so you should accept each other,

which will bring glory to God.”

~Romans 15:6-7 NCV~

 

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

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

Update on Mrs. Anne Hurst:

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

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

 

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

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

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

Special Dates

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

 

Lottie Moon Christmas Offering

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

 

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

“Go, Tell It on the Mountain”

 

 “Go, Tell It on the Mountain”!

Anna Lee

 

 

 

Friday

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above,

and comes down from the Father of lights,

with whom there is no variation

or shadow of turning.”

~James 1:17 NKJV~

 

David had three good doctor visits in the last week.  I told you Dr. O’Sullivan, the retina specialist, said David’s eyes looked the best he has seen since we started there.  Monday, David saw Dr. Paddock to get a lens prescription for the right eye.  Glasses will be ready in a couple weeks.  Wednesday, he saw the heart electro physiologist who did the heart ablations.  If David has one more good visit, in three months, he will be released by that doctor.  Thanking God for traveling this journey with us and carrying us when we had those days when the medical reports were so difficult to hear.  We knew there would be more good days and thankfully, David is driving again, able to lift more, etc.  How wonderful it is to get to this phase of life at the Christmas season!

I need to report that David and I delivered 639 stamped Christmas cards from Kentwood and Spring Creek churches to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail Wednesday.  While waiting for someone to come out to us, a lady who came in shortly after us commented on my purse (that I had made for Momma).  Later. she heard us talking to the prison employee about the cards.  As we turned to leave, she very sincerely thanked us for providing the cards so the inmates can write to their family members.  She was there to turn in some paperwork.  Apparently, one of her children is an inmate.  She was so appreciative of the cards you helped to provide.  I will remember her comments as I affix stamps to cards next year and in the years to come.  (Remember, right after Christmas is a good time to get some religious Christmas cards for next year.) . What a blessing it was to meet her and to see through to a mother’s heart!  Thanks-you to all who provided cards or stamps for this mission project.

Yesterday, FBC Kentwood provided Christmas and a devotional for the residents of Kentwood Manor.  Another group will be going on the 21st at 5 P.M.  Please join us!

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

“And they devoted themselves to . . . prayer . . . And every day the Lord added to them those who were being saved”.                                                                                        ~Acts 2:42, 47~

“O Come, All Ye Faithful”

 

Now is the time for the faithful of the Lord to “share the good news that Christ was born”!

Anna Lee

 

 

Thursday

“The King will reply,

‘Truly I tell you,

whatever you did for one of the least

of these brothers and sisters of mine,

you did for me.

~Matthew 25:40~

 

This season is about giving in many ways, not receiving.

I’ll try to do some catching up….

Ora Lee Wilson had outpatient surgery and is home recovering.  She won’t be down any longer than necessary.

Andy Taylor is staying in during this colder weather and getting better following the procedure he had Tuesday of last week.  He and the doctor both think he is getting stronger.

Kenneth Birch‘s had surgery at Our Lady of the Lake yesterday.  He’s still in ICU, but will hopefully be able to be moved to a room soon.  The medical staff plans to get him up tomorrow.

George Eddie Lee got home late this afternoon.  I’m sure he was glad to see his own chair after being in the hospital for over a week.

Coach Elton Shaw is getting his strength back after his brief hospital stay last week.

Mrs. Kathryn Kuss is more homebound than before.  Pray for her as she adjusts to not getting out as much.

Hazel Allen will be in rehab in Hammond for a while.  Pray for her and for her family.

Mr. Earl and  “Miss” Nadine Council are in good general health although both of them have/are facing some minor issues.  They send their greeting to all their Kentwood friends.

Scripture Writing – I’m trying to be sure you didn’t/don’t miss any days.

Lottie Moon Week of Prayer

 

FBC hosted the Associational Lottie Moon Tea Sunday.  Despite the bad weather there were 70 ladies in attendance.  The young ladies sang and blessed our hearts.

FBC held their holiday meal for senior adults Wednesday.  The food was delicious!  The attendance was good.

Children in Action boys and girls are collecting money in their mission banks for Lottie Moon.  They will have a birthday party for Jesus next Wednesday and go caroling with the adults and youth the next Wednesday.

There will be NO Friday morning Bible Study tomorrow, but we will begin John 13 the following week.   Join us if you can.

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

Louisiana Baptist Message – baptistmessage.com

 

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”                                                                                                   ~John 14:6 (NIV)~

“It Came Upon a Midnight Clear”

 

Area churches will be sharing their Christmas programs.  Check the schedules so you don’t miss ones you plan to attend.

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

 

Tuesday

The internet has been restored!  Yeah!

 

“I am the good shepherd;

I know my sheep and my sheep know me—

just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—

and I lay down my life for the sheep. —

~John 10:14-15 (NIV)~

 

Today’s big prayer request if for Carl Wayne Stevens, who formerly lived in this area and worked for the postal service, but now lives in northern Mississippi.  He will be seeing a surgeon Monday for a heart problem. The family requested and will appreciate your prayers.

Sunday, I was so surprised to see Linda K. Graves at the Lottie Moon Tea.  Please pray for her as she returns to her sister’s home where she will be much closer to the hospital.

 

Lottie Moon Week of Prayer – Day 3 – “The Gospel Among Jews” – https://www.imb.org/2016/12/06/week-prayer-day-3/

 

Scripture Writing – Day 6 – Isaiah 52: 7-10

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

There will be no Bible Study Friday morning.

 

Children’s Missions Groups will meet Wednesday at 6 P.M.

 

“5 Reasons a Christmas Eve Service Reaches the Unchurched” – https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?shva=1#inbox/158cf4d439accc4d –  I know of several churches that will be having a service Christmas Eve as well as several who will be having Christmas services.  David and I attended the one at Pine Ridge for the last several years.  The service was meaningful to me.  This year we will be able to attend their Christmas morning service.  I look forward to both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in God’s House.

 

“And she gave birth to her firstborn son; and she wrapped Him in cloths,

and laid Him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.”

                                                                                                                     ~Luke 2:7, NASB~

“Away in a Manger”

 

Be a giver during this Christmas season.  Be blessed!

Anna Lee

 

Monday – Again!

Therefore Jesus said again,

“Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep.

I am the gate;

whoever enters through me will be saved.

They will come in and go out, and find pasture.

The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy;

I have come that they may have life,

and have it to the full.

~ John 10:7, 9-10 (NIV)~

 

Please pray for Kenneth Birch as he has more back surgery later this week in Baton Rouge.

Pray for Debi Bales and her siblings.  Their mother is sick.

Frances Strickland is back at Landmark Nursing Home.  She had an infection.

 

I think I may have confused my day and given you the wrong Scripture to write.  Here’s the correct Scriptures.

  • 1st – Isaiah 7:14-17
  • 2nd – Isaiah 9:6-7
  • 3rd – Isaiah 11:1-5
  • 4th – Isaiah 11:6-10
  • 5th – Isaiah 40:1-5

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

Thanks to all who attended the Lottie Moon Tea yesterday.  Special thanks to all who provided food, dishes, or time.  I think when we think of all the smiling faces, we will be so thankful God allowed us to be a part of such an important event.  Special thanks to the girls who sang Christmas songs for us.  You certainly blessed our hearts.

 

There will be no Friday morning Bible study this week.  We will meet the remaining Fridays of the month as usual.

The mission classes for children will meet at Kentwood every Wednesday at the regular time.  This is a special season of missions for us!

 

Week of Prayer for International Missions, Day 2 – https://www.imb.org/2016/12/05/week-of-prayer-day-2/

 

“Go Light Your World” – This song was sung by Wendy Fowler and the girls of FBC yesterday at the tea.  It was beautiful.  As we watched the girls, we all had smiles on our faces.

I think this is God’s assignment for each of us no matter where we live!

 

This is a good day to light of candle of God’s love in our community.

Anna Lee