Category: WMU

Sunday

Let us acknowledge the LORD;

let us press on to acknowledge him.

As surely as the sun rises, he will appear;

he will come to us like the winter rains,

like the spring rains that water the earth.”

~Hosea 6:3~

 

Today marks the first day of the Week of Prayer for International Mission, commonly call the Lottie Moon Week of Prayer.  Lottie was a faithful, dedicated missionary to Chine who saw the needs of additional funds for additional missionaries . She wrote many letters back to the states encouraging those who couldn’t serve international to give so that other could.  The first week of December each year is our Lottie Moon Week of Prayer.  I hope you will follow me as we remember those who are serving internationally and pray about what God would have us to give to the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering.

Day 1 – The Harrell Family in Mozambique – https://www.imb.org/day-1/ and https://www.imb.org/2016/12/04/week-of-prayer-day-1/

The Two Rivers Associational WMU will celebrate with a Lottie Moon Tea today at 2 P.M. at FBC, Kentwood.  All ladies from 3 to 103 are invited to come celebrate with us.  You do not have to be a member of WMU to attend or even Baptist.  Come learn a little about missions and enjoy our “tea room” setting.  I want to say a special thanks to all those who helped prepare in any way for this wonderful event.

Scripture Writing – Isaiah 40:1-5 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+40%3A1-5&version=NIV

Dr. Waylon Bailey  of Covington– waylonbailey.com

Dr. David Crosby of New Orleans – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7RiTklhjkg

Thom S. Rainer – http://thomrainer.com/blog/

Ponder Anew – https://www.facebook.com/ponderanewworship/

When Jesus spoke again to the people, he said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” — John 8:12 (NIV)

“It Came Upon the Midnight Clear”

 

As we move from a season to thanksgiving to the Christmas season, please find time to focus on and share the origin of this holiday, the day Jesus came to earth as an infant knowing He would give His life for out sins so we might live eternally with Him in heaven if we make that life-changing decision.  I hope you already have.  If not, today would be a perfect day to do so.

Anna Lee

Saturday

But be sure to fear the LORD

and serve him faithfully with all your heart;

consider what great things he has done for you.

~1 Samuel 12:24~

 

New Baby! – Tanner Cayle Miller, son of Josh and Nikki, was born at 9:45 yesterday morning.  He weighed 6 lb. 13 oz. and is 20 in. long.  His big brother is excited!

 

Coach Elton Shaw came home last night. Please pray for him as he continues to improve.

Mrs. Anne Hurst also came home.  Ten days was a long stay for her.  Pray for her continued health.

David received another good report yesterday!  We are so thankful!  The doctor was as excited for David as we were.  God was given all the credit.

Jean Gunnells Trout

August 22, 1944 – December 02, 2016

http://www.mckneelys.com/home/index.cfm?action=public%3Aobituaries.view&o_id=4028443&fh_id=10545

 

Spring Creek Baptist Church will present “Meeting at the Manger” tomorrow morning at 11 A.M.  You are invited to attend.  It’s always a blessing to see children in a Christmas program.

Two Rivers WMU will have their annual Lottie Moon Tea at FBC, Kentwood Sunday afternoon at 2 P.M. for all ladies from 3 to 103.  You are invited to come begin the Week of Prayer for International Missions with us.

 

Scripture Writing – Isaiah 11:1-5 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+11%3A1-5&version=NIV

 

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty. — John 6:35 (NIV)

“Come Thou Long-Expected Jesus”

 

Do something today that will impact a life forever.

Anna Lee

 

Friday

You, LORD, reign forever;

your throne endures from generation to generation

~Lamentations 5:19~

 

It was good to be with David yesterday and get to visit Jimmy Schwartz.  Please continue to keep him in your prayers.

Pray for Andy and Betty Taylor as Andy regains his strength and gets some more resting time.

 

Scripture Writing – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+9%3A+6-7&version=NIV

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

“Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers”

                                 ~Ephesians 6:18b NLT, 2nd ed.~

“Angels from the Realms of Glory”

 

Lottie Moon Christmas Tea!  

  • Ladies, we’re still in the getting ready stage, but the fellowship hall is taking on a special spirit.  I hope you will know you are invited to participate.  We especially want girls in your families to be able to attend with you.  We think this will be a special occasion you will want to share with more than one generation of your family.  The girls will be our entertainment.  It will be fun and encouraging to hear their voices.
  • It’s also encouraging to see the ladies and girls from our neighboring churches.  It helps build unity of spirit even though we attend different churches.
  • What a great way to being the Week of Prayer for International Missions!
  • FBC, Kentwood has 427 stamped Christmas cards for the parish prisoners to send to family members.  Ladies from our association are welcome to bring their cards to the tea Sunday.  I can deliver them to the jail Monday for you when I deliver our cards.

 

We will have Bible study this morning at 10.  I’ll give you your next lessons today.

 

Share some of the sweet Christmas spirit with others today!

Anna Lee

 

 

 

 

Thursday

He said in a loud voice,

“Fear God and give him glory,

because the hour of his judgment has come.

Worship him who made the heavens,

the earth, the sea and the springs of water.”

~Revelation 14:7~

 

I know you may be interested in checking of some people today via visits, calls, or cards.  This information may be helpful to you.

North Oaks

Elton Shaw – may be coming home today

Frances Strickland

Hazel Allen

Greensburg

Anne Hurst

Shira Easley

Kentwood Manor

Catherine Yarborough

Home

Andy Taylor

Margaret Callihan

Jimmy Schwartz

 

Opportunities

Lottie Moon Tea – Sunday at 2 P.M. (Don’t let a little rain keep you away from this wonderful opportunity.) . I’m looking forward to the girls of our church and other churches serving and singing.  I especially  look forward to the excitement of the girls who will have wonderful memories of this day and who will learn so much from this day.  I quote one little girl, “I’m going to a tea party, Mimi!  I’m going to a tea party.”  I look forward to all the little girls from all the churches as the ladies of our association give their girls this awesome opportunity!   I’m thankful that party will be at church! 

Bible Study – 10 A.M. Friday morning – John 12

 

Mission Offerings

Georgia Barnett – We exceeded out goal for Louisiana Missions

Lottie Moon – Our efforts for International missions begin Sunday with the Week of Prayer and the Lottie Moon Tea Sunday.

 

Scripture Writing – December, Day 1 – Isaiah 7:14-17

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

The Word Became Flesh] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.                                           ~ John 1:1-2, 14 (NIV)~

“There’s a Song in the Air”

Lyrics – http://www.hymnsite.com/lyrics/umh249.sht

Story – http://www.umcdiscipleship.org/resources/history-of-hymns-theres-a-song-in-the-air

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qaE1ce7JY-Q

I hope that song and the spirit of the song follow you throughout this day.

Anna Lee

 

Monday

From yesterday –

Thanksgiving, Day 27 – I’m thankful for the cooler weather so we can enjoy different foods. Yesterday, I made vegetable beef soup. Today, I enjoyed shrimp gumbo.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving

and his courts with praise;

give thanks to him

and praise his name.

~Psalm 100:4~

Thankfulness, Day 28 –   Today, I want to say that I always appreciate those who agree to take on responsibility when a need is presented to them.  They are dependable, so once they agree to do something, you can count on them.  Even better than that, I appreciate those who don’t have to be asked, but who can see a need and volunteer without being called upon.  I know God surely wears an extra big smile when they “volunteer”.

 

Ann Trappey asks for prayer or her family.  Ann’s sister, Helen Lilly, who was the primary caregiver for their mother is very ill.  Ann’s mother is recovering from another broken hip and running out of time at the present location.  Pray for Ann’s brrother as he tries to work out some things to help their family situation.  Sometimes, families carry many burdens at one time and the load seems so overwhelming.  Your prayers will me a lot to this family.

Debi Bales and her family need special prayers for their mother who is in Landmark Nursing Home.  I know your prayers will be appreciated.

 

Scripture Writing – Psalm 118:25-29

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

 

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name;

make known among the nations what he has done.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        ~1 Chronicles 16:8 (NIV)~

“Praise Ye the Lord!”

 

Homebound Video Ministry – Start-up will be delayed by one month due to technical issues.

Lottie Moon Christmas Tea – Sunday at 2 P.M. at FBC, Kentwood.  Come enjoy some lady time, enjoy the mission emphasis, hear some music from each of the churches, and sample some afternoon treats!  All ladies, from 33-103 years, are encouraged to attend.

 

Enjoy this day the Lord has planned for us today.  I’m sure that, no matter what, he has a real “treat of a day” ready for us.

Anna Lee

 

 

 

Wednesday

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~

May each of you have the peace of the Lord today.

No matter whether you candidate won or lost, the Lord is on His throne!

Thankfulness, Day 9 – Today, I’m thankful for a grandchild who is lovable, athletic, and outgoing.  No name given, just wonderful qualities he possesses.

Children in Action will meet tonight at 6 P.M. at FBC, Kentwood.  If your children and/or grandchildren have not been coming, tonight is a wonderful night to start.  We include boys and girls from age 3 – fifth grade.

“Come now, let us settle the matter,” says the LORD.

“Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow;

though they are red as crimson, they shall be like wool.

                                                                                        ~Isaiah 1:18 (NIV)~

“God Bless America” – We sang this Monday at the  World Day of Prayer

Scripture Writing – Psalm 100:1-5 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+100%3A1-5&version=NIV

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

Baptist Message – baptistmessage.com

 

A current mission project you can help with is sending stamped Christmas cards to local inmates so they can send them to to those who might not otherwise have the opportunity to communicate with family at Christmas.  If you bring some Christmas stamps, I have the cards.

Finsh your “shoeboxes” so you can turn them in next week.

 

 

I want to leave you with this post, written yesterday, from Waylon Bailey, pastor of FBC, Covington – http://waylonbailey.com/2016/11/09/how-to-pray-for-the-next-president/

Anna Lee

 

 

Monday

“Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh.

Is there anything too hard for Me?”

~Jeremiah 32:27 NKJV~

 

 

Update on Justin Lambert –

MRC has requested no visitors for Justin for the next few days so that they can really work 1 on 1 with him without distraction. I’ve heard that they have done this in the past with other patients and when the loved ones came back it was a great difference. I pray that this is the case with Justin. His first day was awful he was not complying with anything they wanted him to do. The second day he done much better. He was still a little ornery at times but all together much better than the day before. We’re praying that Justin will dig deep and get the strength he needs to have to make these 2 weeks worth his while. He’s the strongest man I’ve ever met and I believe deep down in my heart he’s going to do great.
This will be the first time since June 8th that I’ve been more than a 24 hour time period away from him. To occupy myself from worrying about my husband we will be working on the house to get it handicap assessable if anyone is interested in coming to help it would be greatly appreciated. We had a 16×24 addition (bedroom, bathroom and closet) built on to our already existing home for Justin, that I have to have finished before he comes home. My brother n law, Jeffrey, took off of work Monday so he can do all the man stuff (electrical, heavy lifting, ect). My sister and I will be there working with a few friends who have already volunteered to come help. Anyone else who wants to come help please feel free to. The more the merrier.
Thanks again for all the support, prayers and uplifting words of kindness. We appreciate each and every one of you for all that you have done and continue to do.

Both Luther and Rene Terrell have had accidents.  She was first.  On the way to check on her, Luther hit a deer.  Rene is very sore.  Pray for both of them.

Chris Wales will have knee replacement surgery this morning in Baton Rouge.  Please pray for everyone involved.

Kenneth Birch‘s next back surgery is scheduled for December 7th.  It’s not too early to begin praying.

 

World Day of Prayer this morning at 10:00 at Kedron.  Rev. Jacob “Jake” Williams , formerly of Kentwood and Osyka Baptist Churches, will be the key speaker.  He always does a fantastic job.  Join us and pray for our world.  We will have a special prayer for our country and tomorrow’s elections.  We will conclude our meeting with a potluck lunch.

 

Thankfulness, Day 7 – Today, I am thankful for all the friends David and I have.  They bring memories, love, and encouragement.  Each one is special in a unique way.

 

 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

Scripture Writing – Psalm 107:1-9

 

“We were crushed and overwhelmed beyond our ability to endure, and we thought we would never live through it.   In fact, we expected to die.                                                                       But as a result, we stopped relying on ourselves and learned to rely only on God, who raises the dead”

                                                                                                           ~ 2 Corinthians 1:8b-9 NLT, 2nd ed.~

“Footsteps of Jesus”

 

Express your appreciation today to someone who serves and follows in those “footsteps”.

Anna Lee  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sunday

 

“I have told you these things,

so that in me you may have peace.

In this world you will have trouble.

But take heart!

I have overcome the world.”

~John 16:33~

 

 

Time change this morning!

As the election gets closer and closer, it is clear we need to pray more and more.  Do your part!

Chris Wales‘ knee surgery is tomorrow in Baton Rouge.  Please be in prayer for him, the medical staff, and the family.

Thankfulness – Day 6 – David and I both have family that we do not see very ofter, but they love us and check on us via phone or computer.    I’m thankful for their love and care.

 

Scripture Writing – I Thessalonians 5:12-18

World Day of Prayer – 10 A.M. Monday at Kedron

Operation Christmas Child Drop-Off begin November 14th.

Children’s Mission class meets at 6:00 Wednesdays.

Friday Morning Bible Study meets at 10:00 on Fridays.

Needed – Christmas Stamps for Christmas card for prisoners

 

“It shall come to pass that before they call, I will answer;                                                                      And while they are still speaking, I will hear.”                                                                                                                                                                         ~Isaiah 65:24 NKJV~

“Teach Me to Pray”

Be thankful today and every day!

Anna Lee

 

Friday

Peace I leave with you;

my peace I give you.

I do not give to you as the world gives.

Do not let your hearts be troubled

and do not be afraid.

~John 14:27~

Mr. Harlon Toney is recovering nicely following surgery last week.  He will be returning to the doctor next week and predicts he will be able to be at our Third Thursday Gathering in two weeks.  Please pray for Mr. Harlon’s health.

Linda K. Graves says she has had two good days and attributes them to prayers for her.  Keep praying for improvement.

Patrick Jordan, son-in-law of Gail Smith

Update on Patrick Jordan because I have gotten 10 texts today about him. He is the same. Mental state not there yet. Still in a fog. He is extremely exhausted. We have a big road in front of us. He is being released from Baptist Hospital on Monday. Then will be transferred to a rehab facility that specializes in physical and occupational therapy. I have no idea at the moment which facility because I am viewing them tomorrow. I pray he comes around next week because I desperately want my husband to look at me the way he normally does and not the glassy/glossed over eyes I see daily. On a positive note he keeps me laughing and after lunch today informed the nurses we were going to a snoop dog concert😆😂😆! That was funny and boy I needed that. I need to pray for patience and how to maneuver through all this. I barely see the kids juggling between home and the hospital being mom and dad in one person. If my kids have clean clothes, fed, homework and projects done and all the extras that come along that is a good day.👍🏻😜I would like to personally thank my mom for being my partner through all this and keeping me sane. I love you mom! You are the best! ❌⭕️😘❤️

David will be seeing his retina specialist this afternoon.  David’s gas bubble is slowly decreasing in size allowing him to see better.  We’ll be glad to get the doctor’s viewpoint.

 

Thankfulness, Day 4 – Jennie

Our daughter was God’s gift to us early on a Christmas morning.  There are many words I could use to describe her, but I will just say she is the greatest Christmas gift we have ever been given.  Thank you, God, for allowing us to be part of her life.

Scripture Writing – Isaiah 12:2-6 – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+12%3A2-6&version=NIV

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

Elections – Franklin Graham has prepared some videos for use in our churches Sunday which can be seen on his website.  Also, he is going to be praying on Facebook Monday night (9:00 Eastern Time) for those who would like to join him.

“If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves,

and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways,

then I will hear from heaven,

and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”

~2 Chronicles 7:14, NKJV~

Today’s hymn – “Learning to Lean”

Lyrics – http://christiansongoftheday.blogspot.com/2009/03/learning-to-lean.html (It looks long, but the chorus is written after each verse.)

Hymn story – http://absolutelygospel.com/index.php?/content/articles/7190 (I don’t know if you read these hymn stories, but if think if you read this one you will say “Wow!” and hum or sing this song for yourself.)

YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q4GHGIcAK0M

                     https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a80QMrpFpMA

Friday Morning Bible Study – 10 A.M.

Operation Christmas Child Drop-Off Week at FBC, Kentwood – Nov. 14-21

Two Rivers Associational WMU – You do not need to be a member of WMU to attend.

November 7 –  World Day of Prayer – Kedron Baptist Church at 10 A.M.

December 4 – Lottie Moon Tea – Kentwood at 2 P.M.

Project – Stamped Christmas Cards for prisoners 

You can provided stamped Christmas cards or stamps for cards I already have.

Bring to me by Dec. 4 or deliver to the jail yourself.

Prayers are amazing, from the heart, cost-free, and effective.

Anna Lee

 

Thursday

For we did not follow cleverly devised stories

when we told you about the coming

of our Lord Jesus Christ in power,

but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty.

~2 Peter 1:16~

Mr. Harlon Toney‘s last information from his doctor is that the problem is not as bad as first thought.  The doctor is scheduling a non-invasive surgery for two weeks.  Please pray for Mr. Harlon and his family.

Bubba Hulkaby continues to improve.  Please continue to pray.

Mark Shaw also continues to pray.  Pray for him and his family, especially my friend, Coach Shaw.

Jimmy Schwartz is amazing.  His personality is still the same even though Jimmy is in a hospital bed.  Keep praying for Jimmy and his amazed family.

Sammy Broyles is in Hood Memorial Rehab.  Pray for him and for Sheila.

Carl Cutrer, who now lives in the Osyka area, has been  “under the weather”, but is improving.

Linda Graves of East Fork led the music at our associational WMU meeting Monday and sang a beautiful solo, but developed serious health issues Tuesday.  She is now in Ochsner, New Orleans.  She is still undergoing tests to determine the extent of her problem while doctors are making decisions about her treatment.  Please pray for her.

 

Scripture Writing – Colossians 2:6-10 

Baptist Press – bpnews.net

Devotional, Scripture, Quote, and a Song

 

I have a confession to make.  I dearly love teaching Children in Action (missions) and helping boys and girls learn and do missions.  They are excited about helping to pack the shoeboxes on the 29th.  They have already spent their mission offering money to purchase needed items and given their efforts in preparing some of the items such as the school boxes that will be going in the boxes.  Plan to be a part of a wonderful night.  Wear your Christmas colors, bring a Christmas snack, and put on a big smile.  Your heart will be warmed!  We are still collecting individually wrapped hard candy.  It will be very helpful to have your donation in by Sunday.

Tonight, we gather at the cabin for our monthly Third Thursday gathering.  I look forward to seeing many of you tonight at 6:30.

Anna Lee