Tuesday

“Give ear to my words,

O Lord, consider my meditation.

Give heed to the voice of my cry,

my King and my God,

for to You I will pray.”

~Psalm 5:1-2~

Please continue to pray for Mrs. Nadine Council.  She’s in Sage Rehabilitation Hospital in Baton Rouge, but unable to begin rehabilitation because of continued nausea.  Your prayers will be greatly appreciated.

Continue to pray for Mrs. Annie Belle Harrell.  She continues to have appointments and procedures to improve her condition.

Maggie Lee Henson

Monday, July 20, 2009 6:35 AM, CDT

It’s almost time for the nursing shift change and we have to be out from 7am-8am.  As I leave, things are in better shape, with ML’s ICP down to 22.

My days of running Cross Country and long distances are coming to mind as I think about the ups and downs of the race.  Sometimes you feel strong and that your body parts are all working together.  At other times, you feel that, if you could just get your side stitches to stop or your knee to quit hurting, then you could make real progress.  This race we are on with Maggie Lee isn’t a sprint and we are experiencing the stitches right now, but believing that there will be better days, longer strides and the joy of progress.  Jinny and I are also thinking of some records we would like to see broken as well.  –John

Monday, July 20, 2009 11:42 AM, CDT

Icp spiked to high 30s just now. Please God, get this under control!  –Jinny

Monday, July 20, 2009 2:57 PM, CDT

Met w nuerologist, she said MLH is stubborn about unswelling. Stubborn? Maggie Lee? Really? We just have to keep doing what we are doing and wait until she is unswollen to pull her off of the meds keeping her brain still. Great news she said: She’s still here. Each day she is is a blessing. Thank you please do not stop.  –Jinny

Monday, July 20, 2009 8:46 PM, CDT

From katie Little;
Jinny, I went to open my workbook for my Beth Moore Bible study and was just floored by what she said for today, “God deliberately created the human mind so complex that modern medicine would seek many answers in vain. The brain retains a vast measure of mystery and commands a deep respect.” What a Godstop! He is listening to our prayers and all we need to do is wait and watch.

Monday, July 20, 2009 8:54 PM, CDT

From my friend, Ricky Fram, M.D;
I believe in miracles. I believe in what may seem like is not possible. I have healed children who suffered over 98% burns over their body. I watched them walk out of the hospital and play soccer with their friends. Too many numerous times to tell did I experience this. Too many times has it touched my life and changed it forever. I never give up, never. How can you when you experience God’s gifts like these children? Praying and believing…

Monday, July 20, 2009 9:37 PM, CDT

A few folks have asked about our arrangements here at the hospital, so I thought I would describe things.  We are in the Pediatric Critical Care Unit at Univ. of Miss. Medical Center.  Specifically, it is the Batson Children’s Hospital.

The floor is open for the most part, with curtains that separate patients on one side of the floor.  I’m not for sure, but it appears that when you get better, you get to move to the other side, where there are rooms, walls and doors.  The openness of our side provides easy access and monitoring of each patient.

Since arriving, we have had 24/7 one-on-one care (and, wow, what skill and ability these folks have) from a nurse and a team of doctors and residents.  As I look now at Maggie Lee, I see too many lines to count (from what I hear Maggie Lee ties with someone else the most number of lines they’ve had).  There are monitors flashing numbers, machines beeping, babies crying, doctors talking, parents whispering, people praying, and the sound of Maggie Lee’s breathing machine.

As I look up at my beautiful girl, I see that her mother has softened the sterile decorations with things loving people have given to Maggie Lee since she arrived here–a pink throw at Maggie Lee’s feet, a pink pillow case with giraffe styling and engraved name underneath Maggie Lee’s head, a Chihuahua ornament in the likes of Ellie dangling from a rod, pictures on a huge poster board with FBCS friends, cards from people we know and people we don’t, a stuffed turtle underneath Maggie Lee’s hand, a balloon tied behind her with the words “here’s to a speedy recovery” on it, a cross, artwork from Jack, and a big #23 marking our current Jackson address.

And, there are two chairs beside Maggie Lee.  They look normal and could be place almost anywhere, yet in here they are for us launching pads for prayer, fixtures on the roller coaster and stations of hope.

John

KneEmail

Layaway

layaway.jpg(DID YOU KNOW that some advice is offered on the layaway plan…?

You may have no need of it today, but it can be stored in your mind and reserved for some time later. (I use advice today that I laid away years ago–advice that made little sense to me as a teenager but has wisdom I can fully appreciate today.)

Someone gave me advice on how to keep a job before I even filled out my first resume, advice on how to handle bills even before I ever had any, and advice about marriage long before I ever started dating. (My parents told me the best way to keep my marriage healthy was to “board up the kitchen and eat out.”)

I couldn’t use much of that advice in the fourth grade, but I still listened. And when the day came that I got a job, got my first bill, and said, “I do,” I had a storehouse of good advice to draw from.

When someone gives you good advice, don’t tune it out because you don’t feel you need it right now. Put it on layaway. Keep it in reserve. Who knows? It could come in very handy some day. (Martha Bolton)

“Hold on to instruction, do not let it go; guard it well, for it is your life.”

Proverbs 4:13

Posted by Mike Benson

Thank you for blessing others by praying today.  As you read the list, please pray for others whose names may not be listed here.  Pray works.  Keep it up.

Anna Lee

Monday Afternoon

I forgot to mention Mrs. Hellen Morris this morning.  She fell at the front of the auditorium just before church yesterday morning.  She’s sore, but reported no broken bones.

Beth Graham Lee shared this information about a mission trip to Mexico from FBC, Amite. It’s time to pray for those going and the lives they will touch.

We have a group leaving this Saturday, July 25th @ 4am going to Mexico for a mission trip. This Wed we are to get specific needs to pray about and there will be a daily prayer meeting each morning @ 7:30 in the sanctuary while they are gone. We will also get more specific prayer request each morning from the evening before as they call the church office.

Bennie Gaylon Simmons
(February 1, 1941 – July 18, 2009)

Bennie Gaylon Simmons

Bennie Gaylon Simmons a loving father, grandfather and friend was born February 1, 1941 and passed away at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Ochsner Hospital, Elmwood, Harahan, LA. Bennie was 68, and a native and resident of Line Creek, LA. He was retired from the Tangipahoa Parish Government as Road Superintendent after 23 years, a member of Springview Country Club and a Dairy Farmer all of his life.

Visitation will be held at the Line Creek Baptist Church, Kentwood, on Tuesday, July 21, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and on Wednesday, July 22, 2009 from 8:00 a.m. until Religious Services at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Merlin McCon and Rev. Ken Irvin officiating. Interment at the Line Creek Cemetery.

Bennie is survived by 2 sons, Bennie Scott Simmons and wife, Debbie, and William Brent Simmons, and wife, Beth, both of Kentwood; a brother, I. W. Simmons, Jr. and wife, Peggy, Kentwood; special friend and fiancé Mary Wilkinson, Loranger; 7 grandchildren, Christie Taylor and husband, David , Crystal Morgan and husband, Heath, Renee’ Simmons, Laken Simmons, Alex Leon Simmons, Steven Scott Simmons, & Koley Scott Simmons; 4 great grandchildren, Emilee Taylor, Lauren Taylor, Taylor Morgan & Nicholis Scott Major Simmons; nephews, I.W. Simmons, III, H. Wayne Simmons and wife, Lisa, and Jeffrey Wendell Simmons and wife, Ginger; great nephews, Kevin Simmons and Jeff Simmons; great nieces, Kristin Simmons and Chelsea Simmons, 2 step-children, Julie Peek and husband Brandon, Loranger and Beth Ensign and husband Edwin, Loranger; 4 step-grandchildren, Jacie Stogner, John Stogner, Eddie Ensign & Maddie Ensign.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Iley W. & Bennie Mae Swearingen Simmons and a sister, Joyce Yvonne Simmons.

Pallbearers will be David Taylor, Heath Morgan, Wesley Travis, Alex Simons, Steven Simmons, Koley Simmons, Kynan Carlin, Nelson Lea, Pearce Miller, Mason Simmons, Sam L. Cutrer, H. Wayne Simmons, Wendell Simmons, & Wilkie Simmons.

The family would like to thank the Doctors & Staff of Ochsner Foundation and North Oak Medical Center who provided such excellent care and to the Tangipahoa Parish Government.

In lieu of flowers the family request donations be made to the Line Creek Baptist Church, 78659 Hwy 1053, Kentwood, LA 70444

An on-line Guestbook and to View a Video Tribute is available at http://www.mckneelyvaughnfh.com

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

Monday

“But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly;

the Lord will hear when I call to Him.”

~Psalm 4:3~


Pray for Judy Easley’s son-in-law, Shawn Boddin, as he has surgery tomorrow at the Neuromedical Hospital in Baton Rouge.  He will be having two vertebra fused and should only be hospitalized overnight.  This is because of the boating accident.

Pray for Mrs. Evelyn Bridges who is experiencing a throat problem.

Maggie Lee Henson

Sunday, July 19, 2009 11:55 AM, CDT

Generous, generous friends-

We are so grateful for all of you.

Please, please,plea

se do not stop petitioning God to heal Maggie Lee.

Currently, her ICP is 31. ok, it’s now 26.

I have not ever noticed the dog in the lower left hand corner of this picture of Maggie Lee at our front door. That would be Jack’s venti terrier, Fiona. She is really hacked off in the kennel this morning with our grande dog, Bandit. Ellie, of course, being the tall 🙂

Perhaps that is why we have each other on the road of faith, to point out things along the way that we would otherwise miss. Thank you all for pointing out your favorite promises from God’s word and prayers this past. To God be all praise and glory.

love
jin

Sunday, July 19, 2009 3:06 PM, CDT

Maggie Lee’s favorite picture of herself. Please keep praying!
ICP Creeping up to higher twenties, still on saline to keep it down.
Keep the vibrant faith!

Sunday, July 19, 2009 9:10 PM, CDT

Sunday Night Our daughter is a fighter. We full well know we need a miracle and are awaiting that. As much as we watch and pray and hold our breath, we know that Maggie Lee is utterly in God’s hands. Her lungs look FABULOUS, the ICP the dr would still like to be under twenty and not spike to 30 like it did occasionall

y today. We have a 2nd opinion, with a dr. who read the CTs and notes and gave us some great perspective in all of this. We feel very good about where she is and every day that she is here is a miracle. Her nurses call up there all the time to check on her and many even check her carepages. Bottom line, only a miracle will help Maggie Lee, so we pray for that and wait for God’s provision however we see fit. Last year after being so sick, maggie Lee was discouraged. She then said, “It’s OK, Mom, I know my time will come.” I cannot help but think

Monday, July 20, 2009 1:30 AM, CDT

I am arriving at the hospital and relieving Jinny’s mom–Judy/M

imi–from her 8pm-1am shift.  Maggie Lee’s ICP is still in 20’s but apparently has stayed in higher 20’s.  The plan of care is being tweaked some and I think there will be some variations from the norm as that takes place.

Please continue to pray that the pressure will go down on its own more as each hour passes.

My favorite Psalm is 139 and it has a great reminder to read at night/early morning.  I ran across it and other Scripture in the Daily Evening Prayer in the BCP:

Yours is the day, O God, yours also the night; you established
the moon and the sun. You fixed all the boundaries of the
earth; you made both summer and winter. Psalm 74:15,16

I will bless the Lord who gives me counsel; my heart teaches
me, night after night. I have set the Lord always before me;
because he is at my right hand, I shall not fall. Psalm 16:7,8

Seek him who made the Pleiades and Orion, and turns deep
darkness into the morning, and darkens the day into night;
who calls for the waters of the sea and pours them out upon
the surface of the earth: The Lord is his name. Amos 5:8
If I say, “Surely the darkness will cover me, and the light
around me turn to night,” darkness is not dark to you, O
Lord; the night is as bright as the day; darkness and light to
you are both alike. Psalm 139:10,11

Jesus said, “I am the light of the world; whoever follows me
will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
John 8:12

It ends with Jesus as Light of the World.  Jesus has been Maggie Lee’s Lord and Savior since age 7 and he continues to be her light, even in the night.
Funeral arrangements for Bennie Gaylon Simmons are still incomplete.  Please continue to remember the family in your prayers.
FBC, Kentwood – Deacons of the Week – Larry Miller and Henry McKenzie
KneEmail

Testing

apressure5.jpgWHENEVER YOU FIND yourself going through times of testing, there is always a reason…a very good reason…

In fact, there are several reasons. Testing times are to:

UNCOVER something: When God allows pressures and trials, it is so that you might uncover something in your life He wants to deal with. Hardships reveal areas of weakness and vulnerability. God wants to strengthen us in those very areas, and better equip us not only to stand strong in the storms ourselves, but also to be a shelter for others.

RECOVER something: God allows us to be tested so that we might recover something we’ve lost over the months and years. Perhaps it is our delight in the Word of God, a habit of daily prayer, or the delight of regular fellowship with those of like-precious faith. Trials may force us back to that “first love” walk with the Lord that has slipped away from us.

DISCOVER something: Even though it’s a test you may not like or enjoy, you discover that He’s your God, you’re His child, and that He loves you. He’ll care for you and see you through.

I hear people talk about this trial and that trial, this test and that test. People will say, “Pray for me, I’m going through a trial in my marriage (or in my job or in my finances or in my relationships at home).” But in reality, those aren’t the things being tested at all. What’s being tested is our faith, whether we will really trust Him to work in and through our circumstances.

That’s what’s really at stake. When the heat’s on…when the shadows fall…when disappointment rips through my heart…am I going to trust Him? Am I going to wait on Him, worship Him, and give my anxieties to Him? Or am I going to turn away from Him in my doubt and discouragement? (Ron Mehl)

“And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations,

knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;

and perseverance, character;

and character, hope.

Now hope does not disappoint,

because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts

by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

Romans 5:3-5

Posted by Mike Benson
Have a marvelous Monday!
Anna Lee

Sunday

“Give thanks to the LORD; proclaim His name!

Celebrate His deeds among the peoples.

Declare that His name is exalted.

Sing to the LORD, for He has done glorious things.

Let this be known throughout the earth.”

~Isaiah 12:4b-5, HCSB~

Jimmy and Retia Duke

Saturday, July 18, 2009 11:19 PM, EDT

Delerium

Mom is not doing better and better although she is trending up. She is cognitively challenged right now.  We don’t know how much it is her being in the hospitals 4 walls for over 3 mos, or the brain injury, or her medicine.

We pray she will be greatly affected by reducing or stopping some of her medicine in the next week.  We may know monday a date from the neurosurgeon.  She is talking, eating and sleeping well.  Really she talks and sleeps all the time.

Dad is admirably caring for his bride.  For better or for worse is not just words he uttered and a useless ceremony.  He believed what he said, he meant what he said.  He is, in an example of Christ, serving his bride.

Thank you for serving us with your encouragement, your prayer, and the love you have shown us.  Continue to pray for mom and dad’s bodies to heal, for mom’s mind to be made well, and for their hearts to be held by the holy spirit in a way that gives them peace and allows them to coninue to keep their focus breath by breath on God as Christ himself intercedes for them.  May they be made whole again.

Jason will be back monday and pop will probably post tomorrow, I like hearing his heart in his post.  We are thankful for the church being the church.  With that in mind keep watching for Jason’s book.  He has been busy with tragedy and trying to lead men and women to continue to being the church at Westpoint.  If someone one may read it, it will come.  peace e.

Don Denton

Here I am one week after my last post.  It has been a very busy week.  Don continues to get stronger physically.  He is still at 147lbs and 6.1ft. tall.   But the steroids have allot to do with that.

Don’s CAT Scan came back with no increase in inflammation.  So that is a good thing.  He saw his opthamologist this last week as well and he is beginning to develop cateracts from the steroids.  Once Don tapers down which we have started to do successfully so far.  So, once Don is at a lower level that will make a real difference with the progression of cateracts.  It will help slow it.

Joshua is doing OK.  We are starting to prepare for pre-school this fall.  He is excited.   We have had a good week this week.

Tonight I made pancakes for supper, packed them up in the car with Don and Josh and we went to the park and had supper.  It was a great night to be there.   Our weather has been beautiful the past few days.

Here we are at the end of July, this year has flown by in some ways and in others it has seemed like the longest year of my life.  I missed my nieces wedding this weekend.  Don and I have missed several events this year.  Again I find myself reflecting on the losses, that has been really hard.

And it is a real balance of what is lost and being able to grieve that.  And then holding onto the hope for what each day brings.  Just to be able to go to the park together is a big thing for us.

Don is well on his way with being out of the hospital for almost two months come August.  That is another huge accomplishment.

We have so much to be thankful for this day.  I find myself reflecting on all that you all have done for us.  We have been held up in prayer which we still so need.  We have been ministered to in so many precious ways.  I have so many “thank yous” to send.  I thank God for you all.

Bless you our family and friends.
Diane

Maggie Lee Henson

I’m back with Maggie Lee after getting some rest.  My dad has been with her since  8:00 and passed off to me a report that things are staying the same.  It is quiet up here with Maggie Lee and even the babies aren’t crying (one was going off the other night like a siren).

I just picked up a snack out in the waiting room and downed a cup of Seattle’s best from the cafeteria.  I’m not sure I want to go to Seattle again after that cup,but it woke me up a little.

Eating the snack reminded me of how great the people of Jackson are.  Churches and individuals have kept us well fed and loved and we are continually blessed by the support of this wonderful city.  Thanks, Jackson!

Bennie G. Simmons
(February 1, 1941 – July 18, 2009)

Bennie G. Simmons was born February 1, 1941 and passed away at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Ochsner Hospital, Elmwood, Harahan, LA. Bennie was 68, and a resident of Line Creek, LA.Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

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

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite, is located at I-55N & Hwy 16W behind Mr. Tom’s Express Car Wash & Bond Eye Clinic.

Bruce Tassin
(August 4, 1949 – July 18, 2009)

U.S. Veteran Bruce Tassin was born August 4, 1949 and passed away at 7:58 a.m., Saturday, July 18, 2009 at his residence. Bruce was 59 and a resident of Amite.Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

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

McKneely & Vaughn Funeral Home, Amite. is located at I-55N and Hwy 16W behind Mr. Tom’s Express Car Was & Bond Eye Clinic.

KneEmail

Health

healthcare6.jpgTHE FUTURE OF our nation’s health care system is in the spotlight…

Congress has been asked to pass a package of legislation with an unimaginable price tag. No one denies that there is a need to make changes to our present system. The way to fix the system is where paths diverge.

But there’s another matter that should take even higher priority: our souls.

Jesus affirmed that truth:

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world,

and loses his own soul?

Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

Matthew 16:26 (NKJV)

One’s spiritual well-being, however, is low on the list for most people. As long as life is going reasonably well, why fret over religion?

Religion was not on the to-do list of the rich man of  Luke 16 . He

“fared sumptuously every day”,

according to Jesus, and didn’t notice the beggar lying at his gate.

Luke 16:10-21

When he died his perspective changed.

Finding himself in flames, his only concerns were a drop of water to cool his tongue and someone to warn his brothers — still living — not to come to

“this place of torment”.

Luke 16:24-28


Food, clothes and housing were no longer important to him.

How we need to hear the message of God’s word! Our lives are much more than the physical. As Jesus taught in the passage above, we each have a soul that can be lost.

If we lose that soul, nothing we attained or enjoyed on earth will matter in eternity.

Nothing.

Paul taught that the Lord’s supper is an opportunity for spiritual self-examination. If we discern the Lord’s body, he said, we do well.

But those who neglect this weekly appointment, or whose minds wander as the elements pass by, face a danger:

“For this reason many are weak and sickly among you,

and many sleep”

I Corinthians 11:30

Paul wasn’t discussing physical sickness.

John’s concern for those to whom he wrote must become our concern:

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health,

just as your soul prospers.”

3 John 2

Yes, our physical health matters. But the prosperity of our souls is paramount.

Is it well with your soul? (Tim Hall at: http://www.forthright.net)

“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world,

and loses his own soul?

Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?”

Matthew 16:26

Posted by Mike Benson at July 17, 2009 11:45 AM

Be sure to give this Lord’s Day to the Lord!

Anna Lee

Saturday Evening

Jenny Stegall

Please continue to pray for Jennie Stegall and her family.

Maggie Lee Henson

Saturday, July 18, 2009 12:07 PM, CDT

Pressure is still under control for the most part and we are not seeing any high spikes.  The reality of the duration of this phase, though, is on our hearts and minds as we approach day 7 tomorrow.

Another discussion of CT scan with the doctor was a reminder of the severity of injury and the difficult challenges ahead.  I hear all of this but also keep remembering the thousands of prayers, some of which are represented in the guestbook of this site.  I read them to get encourageme

nt and to remember we are not in this alone and that God is at work.  –John

Saturday, July 18, 2009 3:12 PM, CDT

Maggie Lee is having another chest tube put in to address air stuck between lung and chest wall.  This is #3 for this lung, so hopefully it will alleviate it.  The procedure is done at bedside and without moving her any.  Pray for safe procedure and for successfull aim.

John

Saturday, July 18, 2009 4:02 PM, CDT

The surgery on chest went well and it sounds like all the air trapped in chest was released.  Maggie Lee’s ICP didn’t spike during the procedure and she looks good. This is great news and we are thankful for skilled aim of the surgeon.  John

Saturday, July 18, 2009 6:07 PM, CDT

EXTRA! EXTRA! READ ALL ABOUT IT! GOD ANSWERING EVERY PRAYER REQUEST TO DATE FOR MAGGIE LEE!!!

Another low ICP-day! Hooray, we are claiming a trend here.:)
We were in the low 20’s today, cutting back the 3 per cent saline given every 3-4 hours.

Dear friends, we are asking God to move and show us these next benchmarks:
-DIALATING PUPILS
-SUSTAINABLE BLOOD PRESSURE

We are begging God for a miracle and He has provided MIRACLES ALL ALONG. Please pray specifically and see what God will do

awed by God and His People,
jin and john

P.S. STAY TUNED!!!

Ronnie Lee Ford
(February 23, 1953 – July 17, 2009)
U.S. Veteran Died on Friday, July 17, 2009 at Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center in Baton Rouge, LA. He was a native of Independence, LA and a resident of Baton Rouge, LA. Age 56 years. He was a U.S.M.C. veteran. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 10 a.m. on Monday until religious services at 12 Noon Monday. Services conducted by Bro. Dale Ziebarth. Interment Ford Cemetery, Independence, LA. Survived by wife, Marjorie Blue Ford, Baton Rouge, 6 sons, Ronnie Ford, Jr., McComb, MS, Racey Ford, Baton Rouge, Jason Ford, Baton Rouge, Christopher Ford, Baton Rouge, Corey Ford, Baton Rouge, Dusty Ford, Baton Rouge, 1 daughter, Winter Ford, Walker, 12 grandchildren, Haley and Ronnie, III, Racey, Jr., Eric, Victoria, Trenton, Hunter, Hayden, Corey, Jr., Damien, Hayden, Madilynn, sister, Trudy Darlene Armfield, Magnolia, MS, brother, Wayne Ford, Houston, TX, parents, Wallace J. Ford, Jr., Gilbert, Leona Jones Crow, Magnolia, MS, numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by 2 sons, Eric and Adam Ford, daughter, Angel Ford, 3 infant children, sister, Tracey Lynnette Ford. Pallbearers will be sons and grandsons.
Jennie Belle Cutrer Breeden
(December 26, 1921 – July 18, 2009)
Died at 1:15 a.m. on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at St. Helena Parish Hospital in Greensburg, LA. She was a native of Osyka, MS and a resident of Liverpool, LA. Age 87 years. She was a member of Days United Methodist Church, Liverpool and Order of the Eastern Star. Visitation at Day’s United Methodist Church, Liverpool, from 9 a.m. on Monday until religious services at 11 a.m. Monday. Services conducted by Dr. Ralph Ford. Interment Day’s Cemetery, Greensburg, LA . She is survived by 2 sons, Steve I. Varnado and his wife, Sandra, Greenwell Springs, Jimmie W. Varnado, M.D. and his wife, Peggy, Greensburg, 5 grandchildren, Mike Varnado and his wife, Shelly, Denham Springs, Sheri Varnado Beck and her husband, Michael, Herlong, CA, Angie Varnado Ray and her husband, Billy, Ponchatoula, Jason Varnado, D.D.S. and his wife, Kelsea, New Iberia, Anjanette Varnado Johnson, M.D. and her husband, J.J., Hammond, great-grandchildren, Sarah, Macy and Ashely Varnado, Elisha, Shaina and Carissa Beck, Luke Ray, and Adeline and Grayson Varnado, a sister, Minnie Wall, Gillsburg, devoted friend, Tom McCaa, Liverpool. She was preceded in death by her husband, Laurie L. Breeden, parents, George Washington and Carrie Spears Cutrer, 3 brothers, Roy Cutrer, Claude Cutrer and Floyd Cutrer, 2 sisters, Martha Alford and Mary Dickey. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Day’s United Methodist Church, c/o Sharon Hornsby, 113 Yarborough Lane, Greensburg, LA 70441. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Saturday

“‘What do you mean, ‘If I can’?’ Jesus asked.

‘Anything is possible if a person believes.’”

~Mark 9:23 NLT ~

Maggie Lee Henson

Friday, July 17, 2009 8:55 AM, CDT

Friday Morning-
Great night last night and wonderful morning. ICP in the low 20’s. Obviously there is a huge mountain to climb but by your prayers we are baby-stepping.
I love reading your entries and truly appreciated the on which read,”We are in this to pray for Maggie Lee for the marathon and not the sprint.” That is exactly how we feel and words can’t express adequately how grateful we are.
Even in a coma, Maggie Lee is ravishing:) I can imagine that she is having some awesome dreams about marrying Joe Jonas and opening for Taylor Swift (btw-Taylor Swift made her pressure go up, so we had to turn that off)

Friday, July 17, 2009 10:12 PM, CDT

This has been a great day for Maggie Lee, with swelling going down and our experience of stepping off the unwanted rollercoast

er ride we have been on for these last several days.  We will continue to see agressive treatment for a few days before backing off and moving to increased stimulation.

I am slowly learning to be patient in the wait, yet resting in the peace God is providing at this stage, especially as a result of your prayers.    –John

Saturday, July 18, 2009 3:22 AM, CDT

Early Sat. a.m.-

Praise God for a stable night; ICP’s in the low 20s. Please keep up the amazing work of prayer and stand back and be amazed at what God will do. All glory to our gracious God and King.

A quote from Stacia Runnels’ Mom; “Doubt is a luxury that we simply cannot afford.” Amen and amen.

Riding the wave of your petitions,

jin

Saturday, July 18, 2009 4:59 AM, CDT

ML tolerated being moved all over creation for her well-needed change of bedding. With her toes and fingers are painted, she’s ready for prom, basically.

I

CP 21 at present, praise GOD.

Please pray for Michael in the pccu here. He’s 8 and dr.’s found a grapefruit-sized tumor in his abdomen.

Life is precious,
jin

Pray for the Simmons family.  Mr. Bennie Gaylon is not doing well.  Your prayers will be appreciated.
The FBC children are home from camp.  Thank God for good days at camp and safe travel.
Baptist Press
July 17, 2009

WASHINGTON–Senate includes homosexuals in hate crimes protection. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30909

TENNESSEE–Q&A: Hate crimes’ impact on religious freedom. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30910

WASHINGTON–House approves funds for D.C. abortions. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30911

WASHINGTON–D.C. spending bill allows for marijuana. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30912

FLORIDA–FIRST-PERSON (Bobby Welch): Soldiers of the cross. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30913

WASHINGTON–LIFE DIGEST: Obama & pope discuss abortion. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30914

TENNESSEE–Oldest BP articles now available online. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30915

TENNESSEE–Woolley Award given to SBC’s archives. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30916

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): Blind leading the blind. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30917

Those of you who are very interested in sports may appreciate this site.
BPSports — Sports with a spiritual attitude! http://www.bpsports.net.
ATTRACTED BY THE LIGHT

The story is told of an old country doctor who went way out to the boondocks to deliver a baby.  It was so far out, there was no electricity.  When the doctor arrived, no one was home except for the laboring mother and her 5-year-old child.

The doctor instructed the child to hold a lantern high so he could see, while he helped the woman deliver the baby.

The child did so, the mother pushed and after a little while, the doctor lifted the newborn baby by the feet and spanked him on the bottom to get him to take his first breath.

No sooner had he done this when another baby popped out, Then another, and yet another.  At this time, the little boy blew out the lamp.

The doctor yelled, “What did you do that for?”

“The light’s attracting them,” he replied.

Spiritually speaking, there’s a great deal of truth in that last statement.  We experience the “new birth” (John 3:3) only after being attracted to the “light” — the light of God’s presence, the light of God’s Word.  Like moths drawn to a light bulb burning in the night, those who search with an empty and unsatisfied heart will be drawn to God’s light.  And praise be to God who offers us a way to leave our world of darkness and enter his “marvelous light”:

“But you are….His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light; who once were not a people but are now the people of God, who had not obtained mercy but now have obtained mercy.” (I Peter 2:9-10).

Heavenly Father, I live in the midst of a dark world.  Thank you for allowing your light to shine into my heart and into my life.  Help me as I strive to live my life in such a way that I reflect your light so that others around me may see that light and be attracted to it.  In the name of the one who is the “light of this world”, Amen.

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thanking God for the rain!
Anna Lee

Friday


“At that time we were completely overwhelmed,

the burden was more than we could bear,

in fact we told ourselves that this was the end.

Yet we believe now that we had this experience

of coming to the end of our tether that we might learn to trust,

not in ourselves, but in God who can raise the dead.”

~2 Corinthians 1:8-9 PH~

Maggie Lee Henson

Friday, July 17, 2009 2:49 AM, CDT

Maggie Lee is having a good night/early morning.  Her ICP(pressur

e on brain) is at a manageable number (17-23) and is so much better than last night.  It seems that we may be on a new trend to stability.

Jinny is getting some much needed rest and will be back up sometime after CICU shift change (they are at 7-8 each morning and evening).

We both feel the lift of your prayers, enabling us to keep going through the rollercoaster rides of late. I can’t imagine how we would be without your constant prayers for Maggie Lee and for us.

A prayer I have enjoyed this “evening” is from the Compline of the Book of Common Prayer:

Be our light in the darkness, O Lord, and in your great mercy
defend us from all perils and dangers of this night; for the
love of your only Son, our Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

Be present, O merciful God, and protect us through the hours
of this night, so that we who are wearied by the changes and
chances of this life may rest in your eternal changelessness;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Look down, O Lord, from your heavenly throne, and
illumine this night with your celestial brightness; that by
night as by day your people may glorify your holy Name;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Visit this place, O Lord, and drive far from it all snare of the
enemy; let your holy angels dwell with us to preserve us in
peace; and let your blessing be upon us always; through Jesus
Christ our Lord. Amen.

Mrs. Nadine Council is in Sage Rehabilitation Hospital (across for Our Lady of the Lake) which is located at 8000 Summa in Baton Rouge.  Her phone number is 225-819-0703.  Visiting hours are:
  • Weekdays – 4:00-8:00
  • Saturdays – 1:00 – 8:00
  • Sundays – 8:00 – 8:00
Mrs. Wanzie Williams asks you to pray for her family.  Her brother-in-law, Roy Frazier, has learned of a reoccurance of his cancer.  Your prayers will be greatly appreciated.
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

Make a joyful noise There’s a Christian who lives in a country where there aren’t many believers in Jesus. This Christian lives near a center for disabled children and orphans. In many countries, disabled children and orphans don’t get the same education as other kids. But this Christian is determined to help!   After many long talks, the directors of the center gave the okay for this believer to come twice a week to teach English, music, and the local language. The believer and other group members cannot teach classes about Jesus, but they CAN share His love with the children.   Some of the kids cannot hear or talk, but they love to join the music class. They may not sing the way we would expect, but they sing with whatever sound they can make. The Bible tells us to “make a joyful noise” and that’s just what they do! And the believers are learning some sign language to help “talk” with the kids.   Please pray for the children and the staff at the center. Pray that they will want to know more about what the Christians believe. Pray that they will become Christians too.

MORE PRAYER REQUESTS FROM MISSIONARY KIDS

Please pray that the people of Zambia do not get sick.  KELSEY, age 6 (Sub-Saharan African peoples)
Pray that our church will continue to grow and evangelize boldly to the Japanese in Tokyo. Pray that the Japanese will be open and hungry for the gospel. ASHLEY, age 13 (Southeast Asian peoples)
Ask God to help my friends and the poor and the maids and my maid in Quito, Ecuador.  ZACHARY, age 8 (American peoples)
I Want you to PRay about The People in india.  Pray For indian PeoPle.  MIKAYLA, age 6 (South Asian peoples)
Baptist Press
July 16, 2009

WASHINGTON–Sotomayor sees ‘seriousness’ of marriage debate. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30896

MISSOURI–Missouri ‘Peace Committee’ gets up to $100,000 from reserves. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30897

MISSISSIPPI–Bus crash victim struggles with brain injury. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30898

ILLINOIS–GCR task force to meet in August. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30899

TEXAS–CBF cuts budget amid shortfall. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30900

VIRGINIA–Africa missions pioneer John Mills dies. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30901

KENTUCKY–Baptist Press interns capture SBC flavor. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30902

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Page Brooks): What can we learn from Mark Driscoll? http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30903

KneEmail

List

butterfinger2.jpgMY HUSBAND AND I dated all through high school and we have boxes and boxes of notes we used to write back and forth…

I loved getting these notes, but it seemed that after we go married these stopped. One of the things on my list is “I feel loved when you write me love notes.” This helped him to start writing me love notes again.

Things he or she does every day. There are things that we do for each other on a daily or weekly basis that become habit or duty. Make sure you identify thoe things your spouse does on a regular basis that make you feel loved… As you write your list, consider the issues of time and money. You should be sure to include things on your list that take practically no time at all to give (e.g., “I feel loved when you wink at me from across the room,” “…tell me that you love me,” “…rub my back or feet,” “…bring me a cup of coffee”) all the way up to things that take lots of time (e.g., “I feel loved when you fix me a four-course meal,” “…spend your day off planting flowers with me,” “…take me away for a long weekend”). Be sure to include things that cost nothing or very little (e.g., “I feel loved when you kiss me before you leave for work,” “…send me a card in the mail,” “…bring me a single rose”) all the way up to things that could be very expensive. Remember, it’s a wish list and you won’t necessarily get everything on the list.

It is very important that you be as specific as possible on this list. Remember the Christmas wish list? It would not have worked to write down “I want a Barbie” on the list. How likely would it have been that Mom would pick out exactly which Barbie I wanted? I had to write, “I want the Barbie with the long red dress and her hair pulled up on top of her head.” Now Mom could get just the right one. The same applies to your list. Give enough details and specifics that your spouse will be sure to get it right. Don’t say, “I feel loved when you bring me flowers.” You might get roses, daisies, wild flowers–dandelions. Be sure to say exactly that you want. If my list said “I feel loved when you bring me a candy bar from the grocery store,” and he comes home with an Almond Joy, he would definitely see my disappointed face. However, if he brought me a Butterfinger, I would be his forever. So don’t leave room for guess work. Tell him or her exactly what you would like.

Once each of you have finished your list, exchange them. Be sure to go over everything on the list to be sure you completely understand what each item entails. Then begin doing at least one thing a week off the list for your spouse. (Debbie L. Cherry, “Discovering the Treasure of Marriage,” 80-81).

“For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.” Ephesians 5:29

Posted by Mike Benson at July 16, 2009
Thank God for the rain!
Anna Lee

Thursday Evening

Baptist Press article about Maggie Lee Henson

http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30898

Pray for Mrs. Barbara Erwin as she has hip trouble.  Pray she has not damaged her replacement hip requiring more hip surgery.

Eltie Clyde Wright

(June 18, 1941 – July 16, 2009)

Died at 4:10 a.m. on Thursday, July 16, 2009 at Tangi-Pines Nursing Center in Amite. He was a native of New Orleans, LA and a resident of Amite, LA. Age 68 years. He was a member and of House on the Rock Church in Amite. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 12 Noon until religious services at 3:00PM Saturday. Services conducted by Pastor Jeff McKneely. Interment Amite Memorial Gardens, Amite, LA. He is survived by 2 daughters, Anita Schexnayder and her husband, Wayne, Westwego, and Charlene Domingue, Slidell; son, Paul Wright, Metairie; grandchildren, Joshua and Rebekah Schexnayder, Adrian, Cameron and Arthur, IV, Domingue; uncle, James Miller, Tickfaw. He is preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Bertaut Wright; brother, Billy Wright; parents, Eltie Clyde Wright, Sr. and Mildred Anita Miller Wright.

Thursday Midday

Maggie Lee Hinson had a difficult night.  CAT scan shows swelling and hemorrhage, but the pressure is better.  Please keep praying for this young lady.

Pray for Wayne Addison.  He’s having surgery because of diabetes.

Pray for Mrs. Nadine Council as she begins rehab.

Benjamin Franklin Allen

(October 26, 1931 – July 15, 2009)

U.S. Veteran Died at 6:47PM on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. He was a native of Loranger, LA and a resident of Amite, LA. Age 77 years. He retired as a driver for Greyhound with over 30 years of service and was a U.S.A.F. veteran of Korea. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. on Friday until religious services at 11 a.m. Friday. Services conducted by Rev. Marshall Wallace. Interment Briar Patch Cemetery, Loranger, LA. Survived by daughter, Joan Brumfield, Meadville, MS, son, Michael Allen, Amite, 2 sisters, Mary Jane King, Amite, Lerlene Holden, Amite. Preceded in death by, wife, Doris U. Allen, 3 brothers.

Janet Newcomb Loyd

(Died July 15, 2009)

Died on Wednesday, July 15, 2009 at her residence in Greensburg. She was a native of Independence, LA. Age 63 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9 a.m. until religious services at 11 a.m. Saturday. Interment Greensburg Cemetery, Greensburg. She is survived by her 2 brothers, Billy Ed Kilcrease, Ark. and Billy Jean Newcomb, Concord, NC; numerous nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. Preceded in death by her husband, Teddy Loyd; mother, Nola K. Newcomb; father, John Cass Newcomb; 3 brothers, J. V. Newcomb, Toddy Newcomb and Aubry Ray Newcomb.