Today, let’s pray for those who do not attend a church regularly so they can learn what God’s Word has to say about many topics – love, marriage, families, salvation, children, death, eternity, etc. If we don’t know what is in God’s Word, we don’t know His plans for our life, and our eternity.
Operation Christmas Child
Each year when we pack “Shoeboxes”, we include a tote made especially to hold the shoebox and/or contents later. We have a team of ladies who cut, iron, sew, and add cords so the totes. This year, my sister provided fabric she hand chose for the totes from the inventory of a store that was going out of business. Thank you, Julie.
Wednesday, anyone interested can meet with us in the fellowship hall at 9:00 A.M. to help the ladies by doing the cutting for them. I hope to see many of you there so we can cut the fabric in preparation for the next step, sewing. If you are able to come, please bring your sewing shears, a rotary cutter, pins, a cutting mat, and the measuring guide that is used with the mat. We will try to cut many totes in preparation for the ladies who will sew them at a later time.
If you can help, please join us Wednesday in the fellowship hall at 9:00 A.M. Many hands will make the progress go much faster.
Obituary
Matthew Dane Shockley
December 3, 1982 – January 24, 2024
Matthew Dane Shockley, a resident of Loranger, LA, left this life surrounded by family on January 24, 2024. He was born December 3, 1982 at Seventh Ward General Hospital in Hammond, LA. Matthew was 41 years of age. He is survived by his beautiful daughter, Adilynn Grace Shockley; wife, Mattie Dyess Shockley, parents, Kathy Ridgedell Drude, Thomas and Pat Husser Shockley, and stepfather, Richard Drude; sister, Brittany Shockley Olivier and husband, Thad; brothers, Tyler Drude and Logan Gill; and many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Preceded in death by paternal grandparents, William and Helen Burnthorn Shockley; Wade and Catherine Kilpatrick Ridgedell; uncle, Kenneth Ridgedell, cousins, Douglas Shockley and Hillary “Morgan” Shockley. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00 a.m. until religious services at 12:00 pm on Saturday, January 27, 2024. Services conducted by Pastors Richard Drude and Brittany Olivier. Interment Loranger Cemetery, Loranger, LA. Pallbearers will be Thad Olivier, Riggin Lee, Jason Puls, Jacob Puls, Kevin Shockley and Scott Dyess. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Today, we have more story weather forecast for our area. Please be careful as you travel, especially this morning.
Thank-you for reading and praying today. May your efforts be instrumental in another soul(s) in heaven one day.
“My hope can be strong since it is based . . . . “
Read the Bible Every Day (2024)
Genesis 42:5 – 43:14
Psalm 15:1-7
Proverbs3:13-14
Matthew 15:10-39
Health Concerns
Dennis Miller
Darryl Miller
Prayer Focus
Think about the various issues in choosing the next president. Choose two or three that are most important to you. Pray for those issues.
Weather
I don’t like to use the weather as one of the prayer concerns so often, but it seems to continue to draw our focus. Today, flooding is the concern in low-lying areas. For most of us, the concern would only be in travel, not our homes.
Old Fashion Revival
Several friends from FBC, Amite have invited us to attend their old fashioned revival beginning on February 4. If you have no schedule conflict, please consider attending.
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Friday, January 19, 2024 at his home. He was born May 24, 1941 in Amite, LA and was 82 years of age. Sal was a U. S. Army Veteran. He is survived by his brother, Larry Perez and wife, Annie; 2 sisters, Amelia Toten and Anna Castella; numerous nieces and nephews; step-daughter, Richelle Corkern Hoover and husband, Michael; step-grandchildren, Stephenie Reid and husband, Gabriel, Lane Hoover, John Hoover, Brianna Folse and husband, Austin, Thomas Corkern, Dakota Corkern, and Leighann Corkern; step-great-grandchildren, Ellie Mae Reid and Leon Folse. Preceded in death by his daughter, Donna Lynn Perez; parents, Henry and Dorothy Vilardo Perez; and a step-son, Craig A. Corkern. Memorial Services will be held at St. Helena Catholic Church at a later date. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Glenda Harrell’s eye surgery went well. She said she would be able to come home later yesterday. Thank God for her successful surgery.
Jackie Babin’s husband said she is now able to move around the house some. Thank God for her progress.
Thankfulness
I hope you are writing your thankfulnesses down daily. I started with a small jar, but will change jars as I fill one up. Yesterday I chose to write my thankfulness about the warmer temperatures and nights above freezing. I wonder if you did too.
If you didn’t start daily writing about what you are thankful for, it is never too late. Maybe you and a friend might choose to talk with each other each day and start the conversation with your daily thankfulness. I like telling God.
It’s all about realizing how thankful you are. God surely would be pleased to hear from you about your daily thankfulness.
Sunday School Lesson
In the past, I read (not prepared) my lessons on Sunday mornings. I have since learned to begin my preparation on Sunday afternoon or Monday and add to it all during the week. I can get so much more from the lesson this way. Sunday’s lesson is about the Tower of Babel, which is found in Genesis 9.
Prayer Focus
Today, let’s pray for the people who are having storms in their lives. We all know every day does not go smoothly. Pray for those days in your life and in the lives of others.
Thank-you for your time and attention so you can pray for the things I mention here. I am so thankful to know you include TPL in your days.
Today, I’m thankful for warmer temperatures and rain in the forecast for this week. You surely are thankful for them too! I’m also thankful that most people made it through these hard days with no broken pipes!
Read the Bible (2023)
Romans 5:1-5
Romans 15:13
Galatians 5:5
“I need the Holy Spirit to strengthen my hope when . . . .”
Read the Bible Every Day of 2024
Geneis 39:1 – 41:7
Psalm 12: 6-8
Proverbs3:9-10
Matthew 14: 1-21
Prayer List
Glenda Harrell – Eye surgery today
Russ Tolar – Upcoming kneee surgery
Elaine Tolar Doucette – Virus
Jackie Babin -Improving
Dorothy Wall – Virus
What a Day! Glorious Day!
If you weren’t there, watch the FBC morning worship service on Facebook.
Sanctity of Life
Yesterday, we celebrated Sanctity of Life (conception -> natural death). Think about that. Then pray for the people of our world today.
Operation Christmas Child
Two people, one immediately behind the other, asked me about when we are starting OCC this year. Be ready. Watch for an announcement soon!
Celebrate the Improved Weather
Do something special:
Take a ride.
Cook and share something.
Have a coffee gathering.
Shop for OCC needs.
Pick someone up for lunch.
Have a S.S. class gathering one day M-F.
Sing as you ride.
Buy a new scarf, gloves, or socks. Nothing expensive!
A resident of Loranger, LA, passed away on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 at her home. She was born August 5, 1963 in Independence, LA and was 60 years of age. She is survived by her husband, Terry W. Brumfield; daughter, Roseann Arnone (James King); son, Harvey Arnone, Jr. (Elizabeth Nettles); grandchildren, Starr King, Julia King, Seth King, Alex Arnone, Mason Arnone, Gage Arnone and Hunter Kemp; great-grandson, Gunner James DeLatte; 2 sisters, Debbie Maxie and Debra Cross; and a brother, Henry Holden. Preceded in death by parents, Delbert G. Cross and Mary Helen Mansfield Cross; sisters, Jannie Lott and Marilyn Cross; brothers, Wayne Cross and Steve Cross. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Elmer Earl “Skeeter” Ballow
February 5, 1948 – January 18, 2024
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at The Lodge at Tangi Pines in Amite, LA. He was born February 5, 1948 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 75 years of age. Skeeter spent the majority of his days at his home on Airport Road. He enjoyed chopping wood, gardening, and fishing. You would typically find him sitting on his porch, listening to the breeze or in his home watching football. He was the self proclaimed number one arrowhead hunter in the state of Louisiana. He loved showing off his collection. He loved his visits from his children and grandchildren. Skeeter was a very simple man, but yet complicated in his own ways. He will be missed by all, for he was a great father, brother and friend. He is survived by his son, Jonah Ballow and wife, Casey; 2 sisters, Patricia Guidry and Earline Harrington; 1 brother, Harry Williamson; 10 grandchildren, Austin Ballow, Darien Ballow Miller, Reese Ballow, Pearce Ballow, Luke Ballow, Lundyn Ballow, Betty Ballow, Emmie Ballow, Peyton Dupuy, and Jordan Dupuy; 1 great-grandson, Benjamin Miller. Preceded in death by his mother, Annie Ballow; father, Earl Ballow; daughter, Honey Ballow Dupuy. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until Memorial Services at 7:00PM on Monday, January 22, 2024. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Thankfulness
Once it warms up this morning, the temperatures should be above freezing for a few days. I’m thankful to have those really cold nights behind us.
FBC Schedule
Until told otherwise, we will be on regular schedule today.
Sunday School – 9:15
Worship. Service - 10:30
Evening Worship – 6:00
If you don’t have a place of worship, come join us this morning.
Prayer List
You may notice I have referred you to your personal list. That’s good for habit-forming and to get the list more personalized for you.
Today, our focus is still on our friends and neighbors as they deal with these extremely cold weather we are not accustomed to having.
As you pray, ask God what you can do for these people who are not well-prepared for weather this cold.
Lottie Moon Christmas Offering
What better way to support missions than to provide for missionaries as they reach out to the lost all around the world!
Elmer Earl “Skeeter” Ballow
February 5, 1948 – January 18, 2024
A resident of Amite, LA, passed away on Thursday, January 18, 2024 at The Lodge at Tangi Pines in Amite, LA. He was born February 5, 1948 in Baton Rouge, LA and was 75 years of age. Skeeter spent the majority of his days at his home on Airport Road. He enjoyed chopping wood, gardening, and fishing. You would typically find him sitting on his porch, listening to the breeze or in his home watching football. He was the self proclaimed number one arrowhead hunter in the state of Louisiana. He loved showing off his collection. He loved his visits from his children and grandchildren. Skeeter was a very simple man, but yet complicated in his own ways. He will be missed by all, for he was a great father, brother and friend. He is survived by his son, Jonah Ballow and wife, Casey; 2 sisters, Patricia Guidry and Earline Harrington; 1 brother, Harry Williamson; 10 grandchildren, Austin Ballow, Darien Ballow Miller, Reese Ballow, Pearce Ballow, Luke Ballow, Lundyn Ballow, Betty Ballow, Emmie Ballow, Peyton Dupuy, and Jordan Dupuy; 1 great-grandson, Benjamin Miller. Preceded in death by his mother, Annie Ballow; father, Earl Ballow; daughter, Honey Ballow Dupuy. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until Memorial Services at 7:00PM on Monday, January 22, 2024. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Sunday School Lesson
Tomorrow’s lesson will be from Genesis 9 and includes Noah and the Covenant God made with him that the world would never again be destroyed with water.
The Sovereign LORD is my strength; he makes my feet like the feet of a deer, he enables me to tread on the heights.
Habakkuk 3:19
Obituary
Laura Lee Tiner Robertson
October 4, 1945 – January 17, 2024
A resident of Pine Grove, LA, passed away peacefully at home on Wednesday, January 17, 2024 surrounded by her family. She was born October 4, 1945 in Orange, TX and was 78 years of age. Laura Lee was never shy of hard work as she spent many hours on the dairy with her loving husband of 62 years. She loved reading, quilting, and spending time with her ever growing family. She was a friend to everyone she met and most of all she put God first in her life. Laura Lee is survived by her husband, Eugene Robertson; daughters, Tessa Robertson Crouch (Stefan) and Scarlett Robertson Breckwoldt (Chris); sons, Daryl Robertson (Mary Jo), Curtis Robertson, and Hilton Polk Robertson (Regina); sister, Jelaine Tiner Fitzhugh (Buddy); grandchildren, Jay Crouch (Samantha), April Hayden (Kyle), Dustin Robertson (Amanda), Brittany Cockerham (Ben), Amanda Hyde (Devin), Austin Robertson, Hunter Crouch, Kristin Sicard (Jody), Cassidy Johnson (Myles), Shelby McKee (Aaron), Bryce Robertson (Ashley), Ashton Breckwoldt (Gaten), Billy Trabeaux (Lindsey), Barbie Trabeaux, and Brandi Thomas (Kane); many great-grandbabies that she loved and adored; and numerous nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by her mother, Lucille Strickland Tiner; father, Polk Tiner; brothers, Wayne Kenyon Tiner and Donald Polk Tiner. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 5:00PM until 9:00PM on Friday and from 11:00AM until religious services at 2:00PM on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Interment Robertson Family Cemetery, Pine Grove, LA. Pallbearers will be Jay Crouch, Dustin Robertson, Hunter Crouch, Bryce Robertson, David Tiner, and Malcolm Fitzhugh. The Robertson Family extends their sincere appreciation for the excellent care provided by Pinnacle Hospice, Ethel Blair, and Amanda Blades. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
I knew and liked this lady. We shared many interests. I taught her children and saw their parents at many school events.
Read the Bible in 2023
January 19
Psalm 21:1 – 22:5
John’s description of heaven helps me . . . .
Read the Bible Everyday in 2024
January 19
Genesis 34:1 – 35:29
Psalm 11: 1-3
Proverbs 3: 3-4
Matthew 12:38 – 13:9
Prayer Focus
Pray for the people who are without heat, food, water, and or electricity/butane. They are numerous. We have two more very cold days before we return to our more usual type of winter days.
Prayer also for those on your prayer list.
Pray for the schools in our parish to ALL be able to open.
Pray for safe drivers on the highways when there is ice on the road.
Pray for those who have had broken pipes and damage in their homes.
You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.
ISAIAH 26:33
Prayer Focus
I hope last night was a better night since the temperature was not quite as cold. Yesterday, when the temperature got above freezing, many of you got to check on your pipes and learn that all was well, but a few of you found water running where it was not suppose to be running. I cannot fix pipes, but if there is anything you need in my skills range, please call me. I’m sure there are plenty of others to help all of you on a very difficult day.
Please thank God for all the homes and businesses that fared well. Pray for the homes and businesses that didn’t. Pray for all the homes and businesses that will be without water because the water supply is diminished. Help others as you can.
We survived a long, cold day yesterday and a short, cold night last night. I trust you did too. Let’s thank God we made it through both the day and the night. It’s 16 degrees and still going down a little more. Hopefully, the sunshine today will melt the ice today and things will be better tonight. Let’s thank God for helping get this far and staying with us today. Let’s also ask Him to prepare us for the next cold weather Saturday and Sunday.
Read the Bible in 2023
John 12:26
John 14:1-6
Revelation 7:9-17
“The most beautiful aspect of heaven is . . . .”
Read the Bible Everyday of 2024
January 17
Genesis 31: 1-55
Psalm 10:7-12
Proverbs 2:20-22
Matthew 11:20-12:8
Obituary
Gary Wayne Dees, Sr.
January 31, 1949 – January 15, 2024
GARY’S OBITUARY
Gary Wayne Dees, Sr., Kentwood, LA, was born on January 31, 1949, and went to be with the Lord and his soulmate on Monday, January 15, 2024 at the age of 74. His devoted wife of 50 years was surely waiting as he entered the arms of his Savior. Gary, called by many “Poppa”, was known to be a slightly rugged man in earlier years but later became a humble and devoted husband, dad, and grandpa. He adored his family, the Lord, and his church family. Although he wasn’t always a fan of animals his wife would bring home, he later grew the same heart for animals. However, his heart seemed to revolve around his grandkids and he was the foundation of his family. Earlier in his life, Gary served 4 years in the Army and participated in 2 tours to Vietnam. Throughout the years after his service Gary went through many trials as his body began to fail him. He lost the majority of his vision, yet never failed to make the best out of his circumstances even if it meant making jokes of himself. He was a veteran, a fighter, a committed husband, a firm father, and a passionate grandfather. He is survived by his oldest son, Gary Dees, Jr. and wife, Sarah Dees, of Roseland, LA, youngest son, Jonathan Leo Dees and wife, Amy Dees, of Albany, LA, and daughter, Leslie Jannell Dees and friend, Ronald Walker, of Wilmer, LA; his grandchildren, Shawn Walker and wife, Beth Walker, Brentley Dees, Alex Miller and Madison, Olivia Dees and Beau Slaven, Meghan Dees and Nathan Graves, and Trey Dees; great-grandchildren, Lexie and Lizzie Walker. As well as survived by his siblings, Lester Dees and wife, Judy, Nell Dees and wife, Glenda, Reed Dees and wife Chris, Nell Bond, Sarah Bankston, and Sharon Lindsey; and numerous nieces, nephews, church family, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Ima Jean Dees; his loving wife, Maxine Janet Dees; sister, Carrol Reed Dees; nephew, Brentley Reed Dees, and great-grand-daughter, Arianna Luella Miller; three brothers-in-law, Charles F. Bond, Jerry Lindsey, and Leroy Bankston. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 6:00PM until 9:00PM on Friday, January 19, 2024 and from 8:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Saturday, January 20, 2024. Services conducted by Bro. Eric Catha and Bro. Rick Ledoux. Interment Dees Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
We made through the night. It’s still getting colder. I hope you are blessed with the freedom to stay home this morning.
If you have problems, I hope you have a family member or friend you can call on if you need them. Don’t be outside too long at a time. The temperature is still getting colder at this time.
Let’s thank God for out homes and ways to stay warm.
Read the Bible 2023
January 16
Ephesians 1:15-2:10
Colosians 3: 1-12
“An obstacle on my road to heaven is . . . .”
Read the Bible Every Day of 2024
Genesis 29:13-30:43
Psalms 10: 1-6
Proverbs 2:16-19
Matthew 11:1-19
Barry McDaniel, Ph.D.
January 14, 2024
April 19, 1956 ~ January 10, 2024
Barry McDaniel, Ph.D., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully with his wife Kay holding his hand at Baton Rouge General on January 10, 2024. Born and raised in Pine Grove, Louisiana, to Charline and Shorty McDaniel, Barry was a pillar of strength and love within his community and family.
Barry became a Christian as a young boy and began serving as a church pianist at 8 years old. Over the next 50 years, he shared his musical talents and served as a church pianist and organist in many churches in the Baton Rouge area and Centreville, Mississippi. He was a member of Jefferson Baptist Church and dearly loved his church family.
Barry’s life was marked by an unwavering commitment to education and service. He held a Bachelor of Science in Speech Pathology/Audiology and a Master of Science in Educational Diagnostics from Baylor University, a Ph.D. in Vocational Education from Louisiana State University, and a Visual Impairment Specialist Certificate from Vanderbilt University. His passion for education led him to a distinguished career as an Educational Diagnostician at the Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired, where he was honored as the Educational Diagnostician of the Year in 2011. He was an active member of the Louisiana Educational Diagnostician Association, contributing his expertise and passion to the betterment of the educational community.
Barry’s love story with his wife, Kay, began in a Sunday School class in Baton Rouge, the very first weekend Kay moved to the city. Their bond was immediate, and their love story became a testament to their shared faith and love for family. Together, they raised two wonderful sons, Michael and Waid, who brought them immense joy and pride. Michael and Waid brought Jen and Jaina, two sweet daughters-in-law into the family. Barry was also a doting grandfather to Sydney, Chase, Taryn, Krysta, and the soon-to-be Baby Mc. (May 2024)
Barry was known for his infectious sense of humor, which brought laughter and light into every room he entered. His kindness and love were evident in his every interaction, and he left a lasting impact on everyone he met. A lifelong sports enthusiast, Barry was an ardent supporter of LSU and Baylor sports. One of Barry’s proudest accomplishments was being a member of the 1974 Oak Forest Academy State Championship basketball team!
Barry is survived by his devoted wife of 31 years, Kay Humphrey McDaniel, his sons and their spouses, Michael and Jen, Waid and Jaina, and his precious grandchildren, Sydney, Chase, Taryn, and Krysta. Barry is also survived by his sister, Rickie Sibley and her husband Bobby, and a host of other relatives and friends who will miss his humor, kindness, and love.
A visitation will be held on Friday, January 19, from 9-11 a.m., followed by a memorial service at 11 a.m. at Jefferson Baptist Church conducted by Senior Pastor Dr. David Goza. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Gideons International in Barry’s memory to help spread the gospel message.
As we celebrate the life of Dr. Barry McDaniel, we remember a man who loved God, his family, and LSU! He was funny, kind, and loving. His legacy of service, education, and family will continue to inspire those who knew him. His laughter will echo in our hearts and his love will forever be a part of our lives.
Seale Funeral Home
Thomas “Gerald” Brunett, Sr.
August 8, 1942 – January 14, 2024
A resident of Loranger, LA, passed away on Sunday, January 14, 2024 at his home. He was born August 8, 1942 in Independence, LA and was 81 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Bennett Brunett; sons, Thomas “Tommy” Gerald Brunett, Jr., Todd Victor Brunett, and Charles Troy Brunett; sister, Velma; brothers, Melvin and Paul; grandchildren, Jason, Brandi, Callie, Kristin, Afton, Charlee, Bodie, and Blake; great-grandchildren, Jalie, Erin, Rheid, Wacey, Blake, Jr. , Conner, and Layla. Preceded in death by his parents, Charles Brunett and Epha Force Brunett; brothers, Jack, Elwood, and Adrian; sisters, Agness, Audry, Cordilia, and Rita. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, from 9:00AM until religious services at 1:00PM on Thursday, January 18, 2024. Services conducted by Bro. Randy Smith. Interment Dan Cooper Family Cemetery, Loranger, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Donald Ray Cutrer
November 8, 1954 – January 12, 2024
A resident of Walker, LA, passed away on Friday, January 12, 2024 at Zachary Manor Nursing Home in Zachary, LA. He was born November 8, 1954 in Magnolia, MS and was 69 years of age. He is survived by his wife, Donna Alley Cutrer; daughter, Sabrina Kay Cutrer; son, Joshua Ray Cutrer and wife, Jessica Mack Cutrer; step-daughter, Robin Suzanne Frith; mother, Mary Ann Day Cutrer; grandchildren, Destinee Keller and husband, Skyler Keller, Ellis Davis, Alexis Frith, Marissa Babin, Jessica Babin, and Morgan Cutrer; great-grandson, Korbyn Keller; and a sister, Deborah Cutrer Powers and husband, Ricky Powers. Preceded in death by his son, Tommy Cutrer; father, Hugh Douglas Cutrer; grandparents, Jesse and Matiela Day and Marshall and Ruth Cutrer; and many aunts and uncles. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 10:00AM until religious services at 12:00 Noon on Wednesday, January 17, 2024. Services conducted by Bro. Joe Day. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. For an online guestbook, visit http://www.mckneelys.com.
Prayer Focus
Pray for people to have means to stay warm and the knowledge to stay inside and warm. The temperatures will not get above freezing until this afternoon! Do what you NEED to do outside and then get back inside. Use the phone to check on others.
PRAY
There are many things and many people to pray for today. Be sure to remember to pray today.
The Prayer Link 
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