The Prayer Link

Tuesday

“Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble;

You will prepare their heart;

You will cause Your ear to hear.”

~Psalm 10:17~

Sarabeth Simpson’s Good Report

We went to get her hearing checked out and the doctor told us nothing is wrong. She also thinks that her speach will clear up when she starts school. We will go back in 6 months just for a check up to make sure everything is still good.

Thanks,
Marty & Gretchen Simpson

Mrs. Barbara Erwin said her hip problem is doing better. Pray this continues so another surgery will not be necessary.

Maggie Lee Henson

Monday, July 27, 2009 10:11 PM, CDT

This has been another tough day. Maggie Lee continues to battle the brain pressure. The steps of progress we were seeing with it are not as frequent any more as the current treatment for the pressure is losing its lowering effect. The damage that the current agressive treatment can have on the rest of her body after two weeks is of great concern to the doctors, whom we met with today to assess the situation now that we are in week 3. We are working with them about next steps in the plan of care. Thank you for your continued prayers. We continue to be in awe of the wide-ranging support and love we are made aware of by letter, post, card, phone call, text message, tweets, and personal visits.

–John

From Caring Bridge – after 2 weeks

132,510 VISITS FROM FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Pray for the FBC, Amite mission team that is already in Mexico and the group going today. Pray they are able to touch many hearts and lives this week.

KneEmail

Storm

JESUS TOLD THE twelve to get into a boat on the Sea of Galilee…

As they started across the sea, everything was smooth and calm, and Jesus went to sleep. Suddenly a huge wind blasted on the sea and the boat began to be swamped with water. They awakened Jesus in great fear and said, “Master, Master, we are perishing!” (v. 24). They believed they were going to die right there on the water. Jesus woke up and told the wind and water to be still, and instantly the sea was as smooth as glass. At this point Jesus turned to the disciples and asked, “Where is your faith?” (v. 25). The disciples were now terrified, not of the storm that had stopped, but of the One who stopped the storm.

Why were they suddenly afraid? They had already witnessed so much power from Jesus. What was different on this occasion? The difference was that is was their storm. They were the ones in the boat this time. It was their lives on the line. They knew Jesus could take of the storms in someone else’s life, but it was an entirely different issue when it was personal. People tend to do this all the time. Spiritual lives are destroyed because of the storm of family problems, or the storm of past sin, or the storm of sickness, or the storm of money troubles, ad infinitum. It is easy to tell someone else that they need to trust God to take care of them, but what about when it is my boat that is sinking? What do we do?

If Jesus is with you, outside influences cannot enslave you, nor can they sink your boat (Rom. 8:31-39). Outside influences cannot take away eternity as long as you weather the storm. They may make life more difficult here, but they will not defeat you unless you allow them to do so. Jesus Himself suffered more than any of us, yet He was victorious because His focus was on God’s eternal plan, not the immediate storm of life. The next time you are facing a storm, remember that He needs to be in the boat first, and then you will be successful in weathering whatever storm you are facing. (Terry Frizzell)

“But He said to them, ‘Where is your faith?’

And they were afraid, and marveled, saying to one another,

‘Who can this be?’

For He commands even the winds and water, and they obey Him!”

~Luke 8:25~

Posted by Mike Benson

Thank-you for praying. You prayers mean so much to so many.

Anna Lee

Monday Addition

This update on Maggie Lee Henson speaks for itself.

I can’t get Jairus out of my head these days. That crazy name has been bouncing around in there each of these last 15 days. It wasn’t too many weeks ago in the lectionary that I preached from the passage in Mark (Chapter 5:22-43) that gives us just a small yet magnificent glimpse into Jairus’ life. My focus was on the story within the story, about the woman who had a bleeding disorder and who reached out to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment. All of this happened between the time that Jesus received the plea for Jesus to heal his daughter to the time that he actually arrived at the bedside of Jairus daughter to perform the healing. In light of what has happened in my life since preaching this text, perhaps I should have focused on the Jairus end of the story. Who knew I would have so much in common with a man named Jairus?

So, out of the inability to get Jairus out of my head, I return to Mark 5 (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Mark%205:22-43&version=72). What strikes me most is something that hit me while studying the text several weeks ago—Jairus’ daughter was 12 years old. I think I even remember noting in my sermon, even though it’s not in my manuscript, of how it struck me that our daughters were the same age. I’ve read and studied this passage countless times, but this time, in this 12th year of my daughter, it grabbed me in a new way and I could relate to him and imagine what he was going through. And, now, that identification is even greater. I now read this passage with a kind of association I would rather not have.

I am right there with Jairus now at the feet of Jesus, pleading earnestly with this Jesus whom I’ve seen and whom I’ve known to do great miracles. I am right there in my desperation and utter fear, realizing that there is nothing else that can work and no one else who can help. I’m right there, not worried about what others who consider it futile or even foolish to go to Jesus are thinking. I’m at the feet of Jesus and I’m pleading. I’m right there believing that there is power in the hands of Jesus and that their placement on my daughter will mean that “she will be healed and live.”

I also identify with what must have been great impatience on the part of Jairus when he saw Jesus taking time to stop and relate to someone else. I’m sure he was thinking, “Uh . . . Um., excuse me, Jesus, what are you doing? My daughter is dying and you don’t have time for anything else.” Jesus didn’t seem to be bothered by the urgency of the situation but was, rather, confident that he (and she) was right in God’s timing. Healing was on the way but had not fully arrived.

I, even at this very moment, feel tremendous urgency and the stress of timing. I fear the unknown while my daughter sleeps and find myself pulling on the other side of Jesus’ garment to get to moving; do something visible right now. Right now, Jesus! Jesus, don’t you know about ICP’s and CPP’s? Don’t you know what will happen if those numbers keep spiraling upward?

Jairus and my soul are reminding me to be patient; that healing is on its way.

Meanwhile, I’m inserting myself into this passage and will keep this Jairus prayer going until I see the results of “Talitha koum!” manifest in my daughter’s body.

Jesus, “My little daughter is dying. Please come and put your hands on her so that she will be healed and live.”

–John

Sunday

“Sing praises to the Lord, who dwells in Zion!

Declare His deeds among the people.”

~Psalm 9:11~

Pray for Micah and Sarabeth Simpson.

We go take Micah Friday morning for his appointment in New Orleans at Children’s Hospital.

Tomorrow we take Sarabeth to get her hearing checked out and Thursday, we go get her eyes checked out.

Thanks,
Marty & Gretchen

Please continue to pray for Jenny Stegall and her family. Also, please continue to pray for Chuck Pittman and his family.

Maggie Lee Henson

Sunday, July 26, 2009 6:12 AM, CDT

Long night. Ml needed her 3 per cent about every hour-hour and a half last night and her blood pressure wasn’t as strong as the day before, unfortunate

ly.
Thx for the prayers. I know God hears and answers. Please do not be discouraged.
Love u!

Sunday, July 26, 2009 9:15 AM, CDT

I’m back at the bedside this morning, feeling the rollercoast

er again as Maggie Lee is still fighting the pressure (high 30’s). She is currently maxed out on the sodium due to the high amounts needed through the night/early morning. We were making a step forward yesterday and are in that “two steps back” right now. I am confident of another step forward soon. And I’m comforted to know that people will be gathering in churches today, saying Maggie Lee’s name and needs in their prayers. Today at 10:20 am marks two weeks of this fight.

John

Sunday, July 26, 2009 5:32 PM, CDT

Do not be afraid, only believe- mark 5:36
ML’s vent was poked down 2 more points today which means she is that much less dependent upon it.

Please pray as always for that icp to come down from her head. Please keep the prayers coming. MLH

Monday, July 27, 2009 1:41 AM, CDT

I just arrived at the hospital and switched out with Jinny’s mom, aka “Mimi”. Maggie Lee is doing much better than yesterday, with ICP currently at 29 and CPP at 74.

I’m praying that this is that step forward again and that we will gain further ground toward getting past all of this swelling.

God, may Maggie Lee’s swelling break tonight and go the other direction for a while, for good actually. May You touch her brain with your divine healing power and mercy. All of this in name of the one who walked this earth distributing freely such power, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen.

–John

PS: For those interested in all things lizard, Jack named his gecko “Leo.” As in Maggie Leo.

Monday, July 27, 2009 2:14 AM, CDT

Corrie Cross from KTBS Shreveport did a story on Maggie Lee last night’s 6 and 10 news. You can find it here. (http://www.ktbs.com/news/praying-for-a-miracle1)

James Earlo “Jimmy” Levatino, Sr.

(August 24, 1949 – July 26, 2009)

U.S. Veteran Passed away at 12:30 a.m. on July 26, 2009 peacefully in his sleep at Harvest Manor in Denham Springs, LA at the age of 59 years. He was a native of Amite, LA, a former resident of Baton Rouge, LA and a current resident of Mobile, AL. He was a U.S.A.F. veteran of Vietnam and later retired from Dillard’s Department Store where he worked as a Visual Merchandiser. Jimmy was a kind, considerate, caring, gentle man and will be greatly missed by his family and many, many friends. He is survived by his son, James E. “Jimmy” Levatino, Jr.; parents, Joseph Earlo and Irma Ruth Bennett Levatino; 2 brothers, Jerry L. Levatino and his wife, Lynda, and Kenneth W. “Kenny” Levatino; granddaughter, Kaylee Nicole Levatino Battaglia; 2 nieces, Jenny Marie Levatino and Leanna Grace Levatino; 2 nephews, Steven Paul Levatino and Nathan Joseph Levatino. Preceded in death by his grandparents, Sam and Idell Levatino and E.H. and Mattie Dillon Bennett. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 8 a..m. on Tuesday until religious services at 11 a.m. Tuesday. Interment Pine Hill Cemetery, Arcola, LA. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Life Source Hospice, 3049 S. Sherwood Forrest Blvd., Suite 100, Baton Rouge, LA 70816.

KneEmail

Tools

tool belt.jpg THE CARPENTER’S TOOLS had a meeting…

Brother Hammer served as the chairman. The other members of the tool belt inform him that he must leave, because he was too noisy. But brother Hammer said, “If I have to leave this carpenter’s shop, then brother Gimlet must go too. He’s insignificant and makes a very small impression.” (A gimlet is a small tool with a screw point, grooved shank, and a cross handle for boring holes).

Little brother Gimlet arose and said, “All right, but brother Screwdriver must go also. You have to turn him around and around to get anywhere with him.”

Brother Screwdriver turned to the other tools in the belt and said, “If you wish, I will go, but brother Plane must leave too. All of his work is on the surface; there’s no depth to what he does.”

To this brother Plane leveled his terse reply, “Well, then, brother Saw will have to depart too. The changes he proposes always cut too deep.”

Brother Saw complained, saying, “Brother Ruler will have to withdraw if I leave, for he’s always measuring other folks as though he were the only one who is right.”

Brother Ruler then surveyed the group and said, “Brother Sandpaper doesn’t belong here either. He’s rougher than he ought to be, and is always rubbing people the wrong way.”

In the midst of the discussion, the Carpenter of Nazareth walked in. He had come to perform his day’s work. He put on His tool belt and went to the workbench to make a pulpit. He employed the ruler, the saw, the plane, the hammer, the gimlet, the screwdriver, the sandpaper, and all the other tools. When the day’s work was over, the pulpit was finished, and the carpenter went home. All the accusations against each of these tools were absolutely true, yet the carpenter used every one of them. No matter which tool He use, no other tool coul have done the work better.

We are all “tools”” in Jesus’ tool box. Each of us has a purpose, ability, and a task to perform.

“For we are God’s fellow workers…”

( 1 Corinthians 3:9a; cf. 12:12ff).

Posted by Mike Benson at April 6, 2009

Have a great day!

Anna Lee

Sunday

“I remind you to keep ablaze the gift of God that is in you …

for God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness,

but one of power, love, and sound judgment.”

~2 Timothy 1:6-7, HCSB~

Greg Tanner, son of Greg and Susan Tanner, had surgery yesterday on one leg. Pray for the doctors as they determine future needs in Greg’s case. Pray for the family as they assist in caring for Greg. Pray for Greg as he endures the pain.

Maggie Lee Henson

Saturday, July 25, 2009 10:32 AM, CDT

+’, doing this on the blackberry so I can’t get this to scroll down-sorry! the lungs are resolving and they are going down on her vent pressureai not expecting her to breathe on her own bc of all of the sedation, but the co2 numbers at least show that her lungs are better. Good Saturday morning and thanks for still caring…wow it’s crazy!
I’ve seen the number of 109,000 vidits to this site…I think a few friends and family members have each visited 100 times a day, so that # may be a little skewed 🙂 We won’t burst ML’s bubble bc we all know she wanted to be famous one day. Dern it that she continues to sleep thru it!
The pediatric intensivist, Dr.Hallsrom who was here when ml came in almost 2 weeks ago came back on for the weekend. I greeted him and said,”Boy, I guess you’re shocked that we’re still here, huh?”
He smiled and said,”I am THRILLED!”
The doctors, nurses and even respiratory therapists here are so skilled and sensitive to us. They speak to maggie lee and love to see our scads of pictures, cards and hear our ML stories which we are glad to share.
Scripture is read as well as your caring bridge entries which are usually filled with God’s word, as well. His spirit is here, hoveribg around and obviously in all of us.
Her ipcs are still not as low as anyone would like.

Saturday, July 25, 2009 3:40 PM, CDT

Whew…Maggie Lee’s icp down to LOW 20’s and she went the longest she has gone thus far beween 3 per cent infusions: 3 and a half hours which is terrific. Please continue to pray this down to stability and thank you.

Saturday, July 25, 2009 7:46 PM, CDT

Hey friends-
A very good day; they took her completely off of insulin today and continue to turn the pressure down on her vent. Her icps are more stable, for sure.
Her icps have generally been higher during the night. So PLEASE PRAY PROTECTION against that tonight. John is a rock and trying to get me to stop living for every icp point which I hopefully am doing better. Last night I just tried to be in the moment with her; viewing as the gift it is and not worry about tomorrow. I only thought I was good at that…litt

le did I know.
I read the book of matthew to her last night and found a myriad of new meanings in every bit of it. The trauma of watching this unfold has given new meaning to my every breath, faith, surrender and peace. Thank you for partnering with us and please do not weary….I know this has got to be wearing you out!
Love
Jin

Sunday, July 26, 2009 1:17 AM, CDT

As Saturday ends and as the Lord’s Day begins, I want to give thanks for the incredible ways that churches have been the church to us. We have felt the hands, strength and embrace of Jesus through the body of Christ surrounding us during these days. “Where is Jesus?” some observers might ask. He is here, in his body. He has come to us with his touch in a wide variety of ways. We have experienced the presence of Christ through you in the Caringbridge notes, the Get Well cards (my favorite one is the Chihuahua in a hospital gown, with back showing), the baskets of food, the hugs in the hallway, in the giving of flowers, the visits from staff and laity from local congregations, with a roll of quarters, circles of prayer in the waiting room, offers to wash our clothes, offers of lodging and transportation, and even through tweets.

As you churches around the nation and the world gather today, may you know of how thankful we are for you and your ministry to us during this time. Jinny and I can’t imagine going through this without you. We are still in the process of listing all of the many churches who have come by or contacted us. People and staff from churches throughout the city as well as even from those out of town have been here to sit with us in our pain and to provide the comfort of Christian family. It is obvious to me that the churches in Jackson and throughout this state are not just hearers, but doers of the word. I do want to say a special thank you to Northminster Baptist here in Jackson. They have blessed us with a place to sleep each night in these last two weeks and two of their members have allowed us the use of their homes. I am in awe of their depth of their commitment to service and hospitality.

And then there is our home church, First Baptist Church of Shreveport, LA. Words alone can’t express how grateful we are for the innumerable ways you have ministered to us during this time. Even while we are far away, we feel close. You have done everything imaginable to make sure we are taken care of here and at home. While I have not been there to witness it firsthand, I am excited to hear reports of the many ways that you have come together to tend to the hurting and be a witness for Jesus through your love and action.

Thank you all for your prayers and concern. You are such a blessing to us.

John and Jinny

There have been 110,206 Caring Bridge visits from family and friends less than than two weeks! That number represents many prayers for Maggie Lee and her family!

Don Denton

Another week has gone by without posting. Now that I think of it. This is truly a good thing. I was posting every few days because of the ups and downs.

And here is why it is a good thing. Don walked outside with his cane for the first time this last week. He walked about 1/2 mile with the cane. This is a first. He has always used his walker whenever outside of the house. And again today he used his cane outside.

At home here he is not even using his cane. He has to take it slow, yes, that is what I said, he is walking without his cane some during the day.

Well, I think I should share one more good thing that happened this week. He is some less dizzy. I never thought the dizziness was going to change. It has been going on for 10 months now. This is the first time I have been able to say that and it feels really good.

He still has the dizziness but not as much as before. There is a change coming and I think I may see the end in sight. We all have so looked for the day that he would be dizzy/vertigo free. It is the “only” thing that is keeping Don from teaching. The good/bad thing, is that Don’s illness can’t compare to anything anyone has had, so it can’t even be compared to a stroke or some other illness. Meaning there is no expert that can say he is not going to get better.

The doctors all told us this would take time. And for the first time I see real change. It is taking so much longer than we all have wanted this to.

But I believe he is going to get better. It is kinda scarey to be this positive. We have had so many things go downhill, that I have been trained to expect it. So to speak like this does not feel comfortable.

These are steps in the direction of healing and I do Give thanks to God for his goodness and mercy. I continue to ask God to have mercy upon us ,continue to heal Don and and we continue to ask God to make a way for us through the health insurance issues with getting them to pay what they were suppose to pay at Mayo. It will be pretty amazing if that happens.

Joshua too seems to be doing better too and I can see why. Don is doing better than he has been. Don took the dishes out of the dishwasher this week and he has been putting Josh to bed some this week.

Another prayer request I have is that we can get back to Mayo before October. Don has a consultation there for then, but we are hoping to get that appointment before August 17th. I don’t think that I shared with you all that we will be going back to Mayo to see a specialist that Barnes Jewish doctor recommended for Don’s dizziness/vertigo. There are four facilities in the country that specialize in CNS vertigo (Central Nervous System). We thought Barnes Jewish had a doctor specialty in this area but they don’t.

This means we would go to Mayo for about one week. He would see this specialist and have testing as well outside of the hospital. He would not need to go into a hospital. So we are beginning to pray that doors would open for a inexpensive place to stay while in Rochester.

And now two prayer requests that are not about Don. These requests I am about to share just pull at my heart so.

Some of you know about this baby already.

Her name is: Haleigh Ridgway, she is about 5 – 6 weeks old. She was born with a malignet brain tumor Stage 4. She is at St. Judes in Tenn. the caringbridge site is: haleighridgway once you log onto caringbridge. Please pray for this baby and her family. Pray for a miracle.

Then Lynn Fisk my sister in law has three small tumors in her liver, stage 4. Please pray for complete healing for her as well.

We are so grateful to you all more than you can ever know.

Bless you our family and friends.
Diane

Read

DO NOT READ anything into the Good Book, if you wish to get anything out of it — just take it straight…

Instead of trying to alter your Bible to fit you, change yourself to fit it; otherwise you will have religion’s conformity in reverse. What you think of the Bible does not affect it — just you. If it appears too deep, you surely need the exercise it affords to think deeper. If it looks too exacting, you definitely require its influence to keep from straying. And if it seems dry, it might be that you have allowed too much dust to accumulate on it (Leroy Brownlow).

“You shall not add to the word which I command you, nor take from it,

that you may keep the commandments of the LORD your God

which I command you.”

~Deut. 4:2~

Posted by Mike Benson

Have a wonderful Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“Everything on earth has its own time and its own season.”

~Ecclesiastes 3:1 CEV~

Maggie Lee Henson

Friday, July 24, 2009 2:56 PM, CDT

We appreciate, as always, the fervant nature of your prayers as well as peoples’ homes, snacks,meals and inspirational stories.
All our love
Jin

Friday, July 24, 2009 8:20 PM, CDT

ICPs were in mid twenties today. Please pray for peaceful night

Jinny

Saturday, July 25, 2009 3:01 AM, CDT

Prayers for a peaceful night are evident as I sit here at Maggie Lee’s bedside. Maggie Lee’s ICP is responding well to the treatment (3% saline) that she is getting and it is staying in mid 20’s at this time. Words can’t give full description of our deep gratitude for your commitment to pray. I was moved to see just now that this site has now had 101,587 visits.

Thanks be to God.

John

Saturday, July 25, 2009 5:06 AM, CDT

I went out down to the Café de Sodexo (ok, hospital cafeteria) to get a cup of coffee and a change of scenery. When I came back to the bedside, I looked at Maggie Lee and, just for a moment, thought I would wake her up. I thought of the many times I have walked upon her sleeping and awakened her (she is not a deep sleeper and it has always been fun to come up with crazy ways to shake her out of bed). For just that moment, I had forgotten that she is hooked up to what must be miles of wiring, tubes and drugs. It wasn’t registering in my sleepy head that she is in the hospital, in a Critical Care Unit where someone must tend to her minute by minute. It somehow escaped me that her body is at dis-ease and has been that way for almost two weeks now. I walked up to her and started to wake her like I’ve done so many times before, but that moment ended and I remembered where we were.

That’s enough of a realization to leave a person feeling crushed, depressed and helpless. And I would be dishonest with you if I told you that I have not experienced those feelings many times in these last two weeks. But, as I looked at her again as the fog of my brain was clearing, the words “rise up” came to mind. The gospels show Jesus with such power to look at those who sleep and awaken them with his love and those very words. “Rise up.”

I want the same for Maggie Lee as I look at her. And I know Jesus still says them.

Lord Jesus, speak your words of reveille to her. Call her out of this deep sleep.

–John

*I know it must seem strange that I’m writing at a time like this, but I’m finding that is helpful for me to do so; to find ways of working through all of this that doesn’t make any sense at all. I have enjoyed blogging—and now mostly microblogging in 140 characters—for several years and it has become an outlet for me to articulate what I feel as well as a form of prayer. Thanks for listening.

Dukes

Friday, July 24, 2009 5:24 PM, EDT

The Roller Coaster Is Going Up Today

Because of a trip to the Big O to get a procedure done to check my legs for blood clots and a meeting I had to make at the Seminary, my first opportunity to see the Caring Bridge site was this afternoon. (Fortunately there were no blood clots, although the swelling and pain is still very present.) I can assure you the delay in getting to it was outweighed by the posts that I saw today. They were so on target to address what we have been going through the last few days. Thank you to all of you who take the time to type a few words of encouragement. You really made my day today.

In spite of the fact that the morning brought a surgical procedure for Retia, the day has been better than the last couple. She needed some work done on the bedsore today. We had hoped that things were nearing an end with that, but because of a new infection and the need for debriding, she has taken a step backwards. That infection will delay the skull cap surgery because it will take at least a week of antibiotics to take care of it. We are still hopeful and trusting that the skull cap surgery will come sooner than later.

The surgical procedure she had today will help the healing of the bedsore. In fact, it may lead to quicker healing. Let’s pray for that. We will keep you up on what is happening.

Today Retia has rested following the surgery, but every once in a while she would wake up and talk some. She is not in as much pain as she has suffered the last few days, and she is thinking rather clearly. We are grateful for every good day.

She did have some special visitors today who brought her some of her favorite food. Someone is preparing it now, so she will have baby butter beans and cornbread for supper along with Black Tea from Starbucks.

She will also have some more special company tonight when Erik, Erin, and the four red-headed boys get here. Life could be worse!

Please keep standing with us before the Throne. We are so thankful for old friends and new friends who help us so much through prayer and encouragement. Blessings to you all!

blessings
jdukes

Pray for the group from FBC, Amite as they travel to Mexico for a mission trip.

Baptist Press

July 24, 2009

DALLAS–Texas church reaching world at its doorstep.
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30952

HONG KONG–China cracks down on human rights lawyers.
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30955

TENNESSEE–MARRIAGE DIGEST: Clinton only latest big-name Dem. to back ‘gay marriage.’
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30953

MONTANA–Student missionaries still ‘critical’ after car crash.
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30958

WASHINGTON–Pro-lifers warn about health care ‘abortion bailout.’
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30959

WASHINGTON–House effort to defund Planned Parenthood fails.
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30967

WASHINGTON–Critical time on health care reform, Land says.
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30966

CHICAGO–CELEBRATION: Reflections on 35 years in ministry — God is always on time.
http://www.bpnews.net/bpnews.asp?id=30954

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): Sexual anarchy — America’s demise?
http://www.bpnews.net/BPFirstPerson.asp?ID=30957

CALIFORNIA–FIRST-PERSON (David Jeremiah): Living a prayer-filled life.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPFirstPerson.asp?ID=30956

********************
BPNews — Witness the difference! http://www.bpnews.net
BPSports — Sports with a spiritual attitude! http://www.bpsports.net

KneEmail

Encouragement

A HOSPITAL ADMINISTRATOR was startled to see a patient fleeing down the hall from the operating room…

He stopped the patient and asked, “Do you mind telling me why you ran away from the operating room?” The patient looked at him with startled eyes and said, “It was because of what the nurse said!” The administer inquired, “Oh? What did she say?” “She said, ‘Be brave! An appendectomy is quite simple.'” To which the administrator replied, “Well, so what? It is a simple procedure. I would think her words would comfort you!” The patient said, “I’ll tell you so what! The nurse said it to the doctor!”

In Romans 12 Paul tells us that one of the gifts that exists in the church is exhortation. The word literally means a “calling to one’s side for the purpose of giving comfort.” The word we would probably use is encouragement.

We all need a word of encouragement on occasion. There are times when each of us struggles with what his or her role in the work of the church is. Some feel as though the only functions of profit are the “high visibility” job, such as teaching or leading in some public way. But if we all need to be encouraged, it seems that the one who encourages fills as a useful function as anyone in the church (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:14-26).

The greatest thing about being an encourager is that everyone can do it. It doesn’t take a lot of time or effort, but it does take some. It can be done in person, by mail, email, or phone. You never know how much a word of encouragement is needed or how much good it can do. Solomon said, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” ( Proverbs 25:11). Mark Twain said he could live a week on a compliment. (Mike Greene)

“We have different gifts, according to the grace given us…

if a man’s gift is…encouraging, let him encourage.”

~Romans 12:6, 8 NIV~

Posted by Mike Benson at July 24, 2009

May you live this next week on words of encouragement you receive this weekend!

Anna Lee

Friday Afternoon

Mrs. Annie B. Harrell is continuing to recover from surgery and praying for a good report in a few weeks. She’s “out-and-about” only if necessary. Please keep her in your prayers.

Maggie Lee Henson

Friday, July 24, 2009 9:55 AM, CDT

Maggie Lee had a few challenges last night and early morning. The rising ICP required more frequent doses of the 3% saline. Things are under control right now and we are thankful for a new day and new mercies.

Maggie Lee is wearing a beautiful gown this morning, mostly yellow with lots of flowers. Her name is monogrammed on the front of it as well. The Burgess’ just stopped by on their way through town and dropped off cards from ML’s classmates and a Build A Bear named “Dr. Maggie”, who is wearing scrubs and holding an X-Ray. It’s the envy of everyone on the floor.

Jack is doing well. It has been hard on him to be away from his dogs and, more importantly, his toads–Jake and Elwood. To boost his spirits, we took him to the pet store yesterday and let him get a gecko and gecko habitat. He is busy now taking care of it and trying to think of a name. I’m thinking we will open a zoo when we get back home. He also stays busy with cards, books, iPod, movies and nintendo DS. Thanks for all of your prayers for him. He is very close to his big sis and I know its hard on him to see her this way.

We continue to pray for a breakthrough with pressure, wanting to see a downward trend. –John

Friday, July 24, 2009 2:56 PM, CDT

MLH’s IcP dipping to low 20’s this afternoon. I feel like a weather man. Thx for prayers and all of the sweet cards, gifts for jack, cute monogrammed pillow case, blankie and gown and special card from my Woodlawn Prayer Warriors.
We appreciate, as always, the fervant nature of your prayers as well as peoples’ homes, snacks,meals and inspirational stories.

All our love
Jin

Two student resort missionaries remain ‘critical’ in Montana after car crash

By Mickey Noah

(L-R) Brothers Dan, Ryan and Jeremy Vangsnes are three of the four NAMB “Innovator” student resort missionaries involved in the Montana car accident on July 21. (family photo)

BILLINGS, Mont. (BP) – Two “Innovator” resort missionaries remain in critical condition in ICU at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings three days after their SUV flipped and rolled over several times, injuring them and two companions. A dozen of their fellow student missionaries are already using the tragedy to share Christ with tourists at nearby Yellowstone National Park.

North American Mission Board resort missionary Brad Lartigue – a local, full-time resort missionary for NAMB and the four students’ supervisor – said that 21-year-old Jeremy Vangsnes is the still the most critically injured of the four. Vangsnes underwent a procedure on Thursday to relieve pressure on his brain and reduce swelling, Lartigue said.

Lartigue said the driver of the Jeep Cherokee, 21-year-old Scott Minear of Marietta, Ga., also remains in critical condition but an MRI on Thursday revealed no significant spinal or neck damage. Conscious, Minear, a University of Georgia junior, had a “halo” attached to restrict head movement.

Jeremy Vangsnes’ two brothers – 23-year-old Dan and 19-year-old Ryan – were also in the SUV at the time of the accident. The three brothers, residents of Spartanburg, S.C., were on a 350-mile side trip from Yellowstone Park to Glacier Park for a family reunion. Minear was along for the drive. Prior to moving to Spartanburg, the Vangsnes family lived in North Dakota.

“Dan has had three surgeries since the accident but suffered no significant head injuries,” said Lartigue. “Dan is talkative and lucid – he knows what happened.” Requiring only stitches, Ryan was treated and released from Deaconess Hospital in Bozeman, Mont.

Lartigue said both the Minear and Vangsnes families immediately flew to Montana and are “strong Christian families who are holding up well.”

The Vangsnes brothers were nominated as Innovator missionaries by NAMB, while Minear’s appointment came through the Georgia Baptist Campus Ministries.

Lartigue said the Vangsnes brothers and Minear were four of 17 Innovator missionaries who arrived at Yellowstone Park on Memorial Day Weekend to minister to resort visitors for 10 weeks. They were slated to return home on Aug. 3.

“The other kids are doing fine. . . I’m trying to reassure them,” said Lartigue, who admits his own emotions have been on a rollercoaster ride since the accident. “I’m strong in my faith and I know God’s in control. But at times over the last few days, I have been overwhelmed,” said Lartigue, a NAMB Week of Prayer missionary in 2008.

Lartigue said Southern Baptist Convention CEO Morris Chapman made a surprise visit to the Billings hospital yesterday. Coincidentally vacationing at a summer mountain home nearby, Chapman said he learned of the accident via his Blackberry and the SBC.net website.

Dennis Culbreth, senior assistant to NAMB president Geoff Hammond, immediately flew to Montana after word of the accident.

“The Montana Baptist Convention is doing a great job of making every effort to help these two families,” Culbreth said. “The spirits of the two families are good. They’re praying for a miracle for Jeremy.”

The brothers’ parents, Mark and Kathy Vangsnes, are members of First Baptist Church, Spartanburg, S.C. Minear’s parents, Frank and Tammy Minear, are members of Crosspointe Community Church, a SBC church in Roswell, Ga.

“I told the parents that the entire NAMB family and Southern Baptists everywhere are praying for their sons,” said Culbreth.

Echoing Lartigue, Culbreth said he visited with the other Innovator student missionaries at West Yellowstone Park. “They’re in good spirits and praying for a miracle for Jeremy.”

Culbreth said the dozen remaining Innovator student missionaries crafted posters on Thursday night with photos of Jeremy, Scott and Dan, and displayed them at Yellowstone, asking passersby to pray for their three friends.

“When tourists would come by and ask questions,” Culbreth said, “the students would use the accident to remind people that ‘you don’t know how long you have or what’s coming down the road. Do you know Christ?’”

Innovator missionaries are self funded student missionaries – assigned by NAMB or a state Baptist Campus Ministry – who are involved in resort ministry at various tourist venues throughout the United States.

Willard Lynn Crowe
(August 18, 1952 – July 24, 2009)

Willard Lynn Crowe

Died at 6:29 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. He was a native of Magnolia, MS and a resident of Independence, LA. Age 56 years. Visitation at Wilmer Missionary Baptist Church, Wilmer, from 6:30 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Sunday and from 8 a.m. until religious services at 10 a.m. Monday. Services conducted by Rev. Jason Skipper. Interment Wilmer Cemetery, Wilmer, LA. He is survived by his 2 daughters, Michelle Howes and her husband, Keith, Ponchatoula and Monica Crowe, Hammond; a son, Kevin Lynn Crowe, Sr. and his wife, Michelle, Loranger; 4 grandchildren, Brittany and Katie Howes, and Kevin, Jr. and Megan Crowe; 2 sisters, Paula Crowe, Amite and Cindy Crowe, Amite; 4 brothers, Gordon Crowe, Jr., Hammond, Lanny Crowe, Amite, Darrell Crowe, Loranger and Gayland Crowe, Kentwood; numerous nieces and nephews including a very special nephew, Brayden Lee, Amite. He was preceded in death by parents, Gordon Martin Crowe, Sr. and Joyce Cutrer Crowe.

Friday

“There is salvation in no one else,

for there is no other name under heaven

given to people by which we must be saved.”

~Acts 4:12, HCSB~

Pray for these from FBC, Amite as they leave tomorrow for their mission trip in Mexico. Pray for those they will come in contact with in Mexico.

Those that will be leaving for the Mexico Mission Trip on Sat, July 25th – Sat, Aug 1st are:

Stewart, Sandy and Bo Cox
Allison Primes
Caitlin Freeman
Carvin Lawless
Mike, Miranda, Loren, Mollie, Lilly and Jadi Foster

The group going for Tuesday, July 28th are:

Mike & Cindy Smith
George & Becky Smith
Brenda Miller

Randall Miller will be going on Tues, July 28th – Sat, Aug 1st.

Mrs. Hellen Morris is doing fine after her fall at church Sunday. Thank God no bones were broken.

From Maggie Lee Henson‘s mom and dad

Hey friends!
Rea

lly quickly, MLH had a more stable day. Still seeing her icp respond to the 3 percent every 2 hours. She did not have the spikes we did yesterday which the doctors feared would spin totally out of control….we firmly believe that God is answering your specific prayer.
Tonight, we pray to turn the corner once and FOR ALL with this inter cranial pressure. PLEASE, Lord, let it be. Let the trend continue to got he other direction.
We promise to bake all of you muffins!
Thankful for another day and begging for yet another,
jin
ps John is so sweet, MLH’s entubation tape around her mouth was changed today and John said, “She looked so beautiful.” 🙂

Most frequent verse quoted in cards, posts, emails to us: Isaiah 43:1-4. If you read it, you’ll know why.

But now, God’s Message,

the God who made you in the first place, Jacob,
the One who got you started, Israel:
“Don’t be afraid, I’ve redeemed you.
I’ve called your name. You’re mine.
When you’re in over your head, I’ll be there with you.
When you’re in rough waters, you will not go down.
When you’re between a rock and a hard place,
it won’t be a dead end—
Because I am God, your personal God,
The Holy of Israel, your Savior.
I paid a huge price for you:
all of Egypt, with rich Cush and Seba thrown in!
That’s how much you mean to me!
That’s how much I love you!
I’d sell off the whole world to get you back,
trade the creation just for you.

(The Message)

Pray for Kathy Jo Thompson (Amite)

Back again…haha… I came to NIH Monday july 20 expecting to do some tets then go home and maybe come back the next week for surgery…well things havent quite been how I expected. I was supposed to see the doctor Thursday afternoon but after looking at my MRI the doctor wanted to see me Wed. When I went in to see him, he started asking me all these questions about if i had fallen recently and if qanything had chqnged suddenly. I knew he had found something. We spoke for a while and then he told me that the MRI had shown something new but that it was not a tumor, he said thaat the MRI had shown an area of STROKE. He said that they were going to admit me to the hospital and run some more tests to confirm the findings, which were confirmed through other tests later that day. Today, I saw a neurologist and they drew more blood to see if I have a blood disorder that caused it or if it could be from some medication that I am on, most doctors seem to think its the meds. I still dont know what to think. My doctor said this is not related to my NF2 and they don’t understand it at all because I am a healthy 23yr old. I won’t know the results of the blood tests for some time but I’ll let you know when I do.

Mrs. Betty Bethel has had cataract surgery. had teeth pulled in preparation for dentures, and had a brush with pneumonia. Keep her in your prayers.

Tracey Williams is in ICU at Baton Rouge General. Please keep him in your prayers.

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

Let’s play ball!

Do you love football? Brady, Craig and Mike do! They have been coaching football in Portugal. Portugal is a country in Europe. In most European languages, their word “football” is really soccer. But these guys are really coaching a team of Portuguese players and they play American-style football.

Brady, Craig and Mike coach the players about how to live a godly life too. For two years, they have been showing them how to love God and love others. A few team members are going to a home Bible study led by the coaches.

One player said that he needs to let Jesus be his Savior, but he doesn’t want to stop living the way he does. Please pray for this player that he will let go of the sins in his life and that he will say “yes” to Jesus.

Prayer Requests from Missionary Kids

Please pray for me and that I would get better grades. JARED, age 8 (Sub-Saharan African peoples)

Pray for my grandpa because he is not a Christian. CH, age 11 (Southeast Asian peoples)

My name is Jesse. I was a baby when I left America but now I’m four years old and I’m going back to visit my grandparents and cousins and to make new friends this August. My twins brother and sister have never even been to America. I hope that God helps them to not be afraid even when we have to move a lot. We will come back to Europe after 6 months. JESSE, age 4 (European peoples)

Check out the new version of the website at http://kidsonmission.org/prayer/

MAKING EVERYBODY HAPPY

The following is reported to be a true story regarding Berkeley, CA:

In 1990, the Berkeley City Council passed a law changing the name of Columbus Day to Native American Day because Columbus wasn’t nice to the Indians. Of course, no Indians were asked if they wanted the holiday’s name changed or even if they wanted to be called Native Americans.

In 1991, a politically-correct group argued that Indians are not native to America but to Asia, so calling them Native Americans might be insulting to Asians. So the Berkeley City Council changed the name again, to “Indigenous People Day.” Of course, neither the Indian nor the Asian communities were consulted about this.

In 1992, the Italian American Anti-Defamation League gave the City of Berkeley their Insensitivity Award. The Italian-American group said that they agreed that Indians haven’t been treated well, but that the Italians weren’t the ones who did it, so why take away their holiday? Nobody asked the Italian-American community at large how they felt about renaming Columbus Day.

In 1994, the Berkeley City Council finally changed the holiday back to “Columbus Day.”

In 1995, representatives of the Winnamucca Indian Tribe protested at City Council meetings. They argued that Indians had never asked that Columbus Day be renamed to honor Indians, but since it had been, the City Council couldn’t take it back, lest they become “indigenous-people-givers.”

In 1996, the City Council again changed the name to “Indigenous Peoples/Columbus Day.” It was felt that this name was a compromise which would end any and all protests from the diverse, interested parties.

Currently, the Berkeley City Council is besieged by a group lobbying to rename the holiday “Animal Rights Day.”

You can’t please everyone, can you? In fact, trying to do so will only frustrate you. I’m not saying we shouldn’t give consideration to the desires of others, because we should. But, ultimately, in our Christian lives, we should seek to please only one person.

“For do I now persuade men, or God? Or do I seek to please men? For if I still pleased men, I would not be a bondservant of Christ.” (Gal. 1:10)

Take comfort in knowing that even Jesus Christ didn’t please everyone throughout his life. But he always sought to please God. May that be your goal this day and every day!

Have a great day!

Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

Thank you for praying.

Have a fantastic Friday!

Anna Lee

Thursday Midmorning

Maggie Lee Henson

Good morning, friends. Maggie Lee had a decent night last night after a wacky day icp-wise. Maggie Lee seems to be unpredictab

le (no shock there,) in the way she responds to her meds.
Truly it is still hour by hour here with her. Thank you for giving yourself over to her prayer-coverage.
She is truly held in God’s hands and we trust in Him and His love for all of us.
This is not a 10-day vacation I’d neccesarily recommend to anybody, but none the less we are here today, ready for MLH to pop up and say something hysterical. As I read scripture, I see that stranger things, indeed, have happened. Keep the Faith

There is a long update on Mrs. Rita Dukes you may want to read.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/jimmyandretiadukes

Thursday Update

Maggie Lee Henson

My “shift” is coming to an end with the floor shift change from 7:00-8:00. Everyone has to leave as a new crew comes in and signs on for the day.

Maggie Lee’s ICP is currently at 22. It crept up to 38 just prior to her getting another dose. This seems to be the new pattern, with a higher ICP average. I’m thankful that the doses are still working and, more importantly

, for the steadfast prayer activity from all of you.
–John

Thursday

“Our lives gradually becoming brighter and more beautiful

as God enters our lives and we become like him.”

~2 Corinthians 3:18b MSG~

Please pray for Mrs. Bill Hughes. The weather surely has made her health issues more difficult.

Pray for Mrs. Nat McKinney. It’s not easy to leave your home to receive daily assistance.

Mrs. Annie Belle Harrell went to the doctor again yesterday. He said it will now be five weeks before they know if the recent surgery was helpful. Pray for her during this time.

Maggie Lee Henson

Jinny and I switched out at 1:30 this morning. ICP is higher than normal but responding to what the doctors are giving her. The upward trend and higher average, though, is of concern to them and so obviously to us as well.

Pray for Jinny to get good rest and for ICP trend to break. Pray also more second winds for us.

–John

Encouragement

YEARS AGO AN experiment was conducted to measure people’s capacity to endure pain…

How long could a bare-footed person stand in a bucket of ice water? It was discovered that when there was someone else present offering encouragment and support, the person standing in the ice water could tolerate paiin twice as long as when no one else was present. (John C. Maxwell, Encouragement Changes Everything, 25)

Could it also be the case that elders could serve twice as long, preachers could work twice as long, and members could be faithful twice as long, if they had someone holding their hands and encouraging them? I believe that this is the case. As you know, the book of Hebrews was written to those who were discouraged and in danger of falling away. The inspired writer of this book often exhorted brethren to encourage one another ( Hebrews 3:13; 10:24-25). In the twelfth chapter, we read these words, “Therefore strengthen the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees” (v. 12). (Wade Webster)

“But Moses’ hands became heavy;

so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it.

And Aaron and Hur supported his hands,

one on one side, and the other on the other side;

and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.”

Exodus 17:12

Posted by Mike Benson at July 22, 2009