The Prayer Link

Monday

“And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life.

He who comes to Me shall never hunger,

and he who believes in Me shall never thirst.”

~John 6:35, NKJV~

Mrs. Faye Price has more good days than usual lately. She is beginning to do things she has not been able to do for a while. Continue to pray for her and for her family as they stick by her on the good days and the not-so-good days.

Pray for the workers and the children who will be involved in VBS this week and for young hearts to accept Jesus this week. Pray for families to be reach through the children.

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” (Philippians 2:10).

Mike Benson, Editor

WHEN I WAS a little kid, I got a pretty nasty burn on my leg…

The doctor applied a bandage designed to adhere to the burned skin. The bandage was made of a material that had a healing ointment in it, and as the burn healed and the skin began to grow, the bandage and the skin fused. It worked almost like a skin graft, and it was very effective in the process of healing.

This is a picture of what the local church should be. We are not to be a band-aid that provides a small amount of healing and protection for the hurting people around us, only to be taken off and once again made separate. The church should be fused with those who have been “burned,” working as a unit to bring about healing. Part of our strategy is to become a vital part of life in our region, not just to be a place for people to visit on the weekends but truly to be a healing place for a hurting world. We want to be involved, to be part of the cure, and to be a resource for rehabilitation and spiritual restoration. (Dino Rizzo)

“And when Jesus went out He saw a great multitude;

and He was moved with compassion for them,

and healed their sick.”

Matthew 14:14

It there was a “compassionmeter”, how would we rate? How would our churches rate?

Anna Lee

Sunday Evening

I was told Elizabeth H. Cooper had 11 hours of dental work yesterday. Pray for her as she recovers.

Joanna Goynes is in North Oaks and will have heart surgery tomorrow. Please be in prayer for her.

Georgette Ann Guidroz
(December 5, 1958 – June 7, 2009)
Georgette Ann Guidroz was born December 5, 1958 and passed away at 6:12 a.m. on Sunday, June 7, 2009 at the LSU Lallie Kemp Medical Center, Independence. She was 50, a native of New Orleans and a resident of Amite.

Georgette is survived by 3 sons, Jason Sonnier and Rachel Grimes, Gavin Guidroz, and Jared Borras and wife, Rebecca, all of Amite; 4 grandchildren, Jacey and Colby Sonnier, and Chelsea and Jared Wryley Borras all of Amite; 2 sisters, and numerous nieces, nephews and many friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, George and Enola Sonnier.

Arrangements are incomplete at this time.

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

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

Jacqueline “Jackie” Alford
(January 24, 1941 – June 6, 2009)
Died at 10:27PM on Saturday, June 6, 2009 at North Oaks Medical Center in Hammond, LA. She was a native of Magnolia, MS and a resident of Kentwood, LA. Age 68 years. Visitation at McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, from 6 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Tuesday and from 11 a.m. until religious services at 2 p.m. Wednesday. Services conducted by Rev. Larry Robertson. Interment Alford Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Survived by husband, Shelby G. Alford, Kentwood, son, Mitchell K. Alford, Baker, 2 daughters, Melissa Guagliardo and her husband, James, Ponchatoula, Frances J. Rollings, Denham Springs, 9 grandchildren, LeAnne and Danny Holmes, Tuscaloosa, AL, Lindsey Barrilleaux, Ponchatoula, Lauren and Travis Perrin, Ponchatoula, Shelye J. Guagliardo, Ponchatoula, Felicity L. Guagliardo, Ponchatoula, Dorothy A. Guagliardo, Ponchatoula, Corey J. Williams, Ponchatoula, A. J. Mitchell Alford, Bogue Chitto, MS, Joshua A. Anderson, Hammond, 4 great-grandchildren, Jordan J. Barrilleaux, Ponchatoula, Melvin J. Barrilleaux, Ponchatoula, Louis J. Perrin, Ponchatoula, Alyssa J. Alford, Bogue Chitto, MS, brother, R. E. “Dickie” McDaniel, Baton Rouge. Preceded in death by parents, Dorothy & L. M. McDaniel, nephew, Steven McDaniel.

Katherine Giles Herzog
(April 22, 1933 – June 7, 2009)
Died at 2:14PM on Sunday, June 7, 2009 at her residence in Amite, LA. She was a native of Independence, LA. Age 76 years. Graveside Services will be held at 12 Noon Monday. Services conducted by Fr. Don Campbell. Interment Spring Cemtery, Amite, LA. Survived by 3 daughters, Connie Landry, Mobile, AL, Cindy Herzog, Amite, Rachel Trout, Plano, TX, 2 sons, Corey Trout, Plano, TX, Jeff Landry, Mobile, AL, brothers, Robert Giles, Choudrant, James Giles, Calhoun, Keith Giles, Henderson, NV, Victor Giles, Amite, Larry Giles, Independence, Preceded in death by husband, Fred Herzog, parents, Dwight and Lillian Giles. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Sunday

“For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son,

that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.

For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world,

but to save the world through Him.”

~John 3:16-17 NIV~

VBS registration this morning at FBC, Kentwood and in the morning before VBS.

Please continue to pray for my mother as she recovers from her last fall. The bruising and swelling continue in her face. Thankfully, much of the pain is now gone.

Pray for Jennie’s family today. They will be moving to their capital city tomorrow. Since there is a seven hour time difference, their move will begin while most of us are sleeping tonight. Pray for things to go smoothly and for the new apartment to work well for them.

Two people were checked out for health concerns in the last few days. Both Melissa Simpson and Dr. Earl Council got good reports. God was faithful and good to them!

Jimmy and Retia Dukes

Saturday, June 6, 2009 12:09 PM, EDT

I have tried all morning to come up with a catchy word for todays post. I can’t. I just can’t. I am at a hard point in this journey. There are many good things that have come out of this tragic sureal event that none of us wanted to be smack in the middle of, especially not mom and dad. I think of the time jase and I are getting to spend with mom and dad, the overwhelmin

g blessing of the church being the church and loving on us and praying for us. God recieving glory as he is near to us and we are near to Him walking this out allowing people to see this living relationship walked out in front of them. It is all good. But I am tired. I did not expect nor plan this into my life and I am ready for this to stop. To wake up, I think we all are. We want to spend time with each other. We want to share in love with friends and family. We want the church to be the church breath by breath, that is all of our passion. We want God to recieve glory through our lives as we walk with Emmanuel. I hear the spirit whisper I have overcome, peace, rest in me. I know it is all good because He is good. My boys verse this week is actually my mother’s verse for me. God has not given us a spirit of fear or timidity but a spirit of power, love, and discipline. 2 Timothy 1:7 We will walk through this and be loved and give love and He will recieve Glory from it. We must be resolutely focused, surrendered daily, and endure. That is where we are called, no matter the circumstance. That is what Jesus did as he resolutely walked with God to the cross and endured for us. I thank him that he holds us.

I have enjoyed being with my mom’s sister, my aunt Kete. She is giving my mom a hand and foot massage and doing her nails. She is so much like mom it was fun to be with her. She will watch over her even better than J and me. She is a nurse, once a nurse always a nurse.

PRAY!! Pray for us. Pray for dad. He is doing well: working, walking, and healing. Please continue to pray for his strength, resolve, and peace that passes understanding and joy that is renewed daily. Pray his bones will heal and his pain will be tolerable. Pray for his mind and the worries of what bills will be left at the end. Pray for God’s favor with the insurance companies. (God is the only one that could control the insurance companies but that is another topic for another time). Pray for him wisdom to know what to do next as we walk through these uncharted waters. Pray for him the drive and discipline to do rehab with much vigor. Pray that he will grow stronger from his effort and be encouraged to do more and endure.

Pray especially mom. I saw her sacral decub today. It is healing some, it is about the diameter of a half dollar and about an inch deep. The one on her head is virtually healed. Her lungs still have a nosocomial infection of pseudomonas and she has yeast in her trachea. She had a rash that is now clear but they still have her on antibiotics till june 23 for her bone infection. Her blood cultures remain clear thankfully. She is talking a little stronger, in a bass tone. She is swallowing thick things. She stood with lots of help this week. The neurosurgeon’s came by yesterday and will continue to follow her. They are waiting for the infection to clear before replacing skull. She is resting today, no therapy. Pray for her vocal cords to heal and work. Pray for her swallowing to work so she will not aspirate her food and continue to keep pneumonia. Pray for her to move and walk and talk. Pray for her infection to heal. Pray for her spirit (I am not the one in the bed that was hit by a car I remind myself often) to be resolute to drive herself to wellness as the Holy spirit comforts her and brings her peace and joy. Jesus make her well and whole physically. I thank Him for making all of us whole spiritually. Hold us all Jesus, amen.

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10

Mike Benson, Editor

TOP TEN SIGNS YOU’RE GROWING MORE “MATURE”

10. Your teeth spend the night in a jar.

9. You have an executive “lift” chair.

8. It takes you longer to go to sleep than it did to get tired.

7. You and the pharmacist are on a first-name basis.

6. It takes you twice as long to look half as nice.

5. The pressing question of your life is, “Where did I park the car?”

4. You get winded playing Bible Trivia.

3. You know all of the answers, but nobody asks you the questions.

2. You walk with your head held high…to see through your bifocals.

1. Shuffleboard doesn’t sound too bad.

“The silver-haired head is a crown of glory,

if it is found in the way of righteousness.”

Proverbs 16:31

Have a great Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Saturday

“Call to Me, and I will answer you,

and show you great and mighty things,

which you do not know.”

~Jeremiah 33:3~

VBS begins Monday at FBC, Kentwood. Children who are four through those who just completed sixth grade are invited to attend. The time will be from 8:30-11:30 each morning. VBS shirts and music CDs ate available in the church office.

Sunday night there will be a singing at FBC, Kentwood. It will be outside on the street at 6 P.M.

Don Denton

Well we made it in finally about 8pm this eveing. It was a very long day. The doctors said by noon we would be leaving the hospital. Well by 3pm we left today.

We are so glad to be home. And John and Mary Ann drove up in our driveway as we were driving up this evening. They helped me unpack the car, which I am so grateful for.

I am so grateful to all of you who just continue to reach out to us. And again, Frank and Anne for taking us in one more time. You saved us again from so much that comes with being gone from home. God bless you in abundance for pouring yourselves out again to us. We are so grateful.

I am so very tired again. It has been a long 8 days. I too am thanking God for Don doing better. He longs to be here for good and to get better more than you can know.

And Joshua ran non stop once we got out of the car. He was celebrating being home again, seeing his toys and his bedroom. His buddy James came for a sleepover tonight. I could not say no. He has been such a trooper again this trip.

On the way out of the hospital today, Joshua road on the wheelchair wheeling Don out. He just needs to be near his daddy again.

It was a rough trip home for Don. But I know he will improve even more now that we are home.

Pray for us. I never thought we would be more than 8 months into this illness and I am having to ask for help again. I feel that this is all that I do these days is ask for help. You all have done so much for us. I don’t mean to be a broken record, but I need help with so much. I am so behind on so many things. I am needing some help with childcare and I am needing some help with the house.

Our fence is down in our backyard. I have someone who has offered to help with it. If some other men could help I would so appreciate it. I could organize a date if anyone could help with that.

Thank you again
Diane

Carl Buster Brown, Jr.
(August 10, 1926 – June 5, 2009)

Carl Buster Brown, Jr.

U.S. Veteran Died at 1:20 a.m. on Friday, June 5, 2009 at Golden Age Nursing Home in Denham Springs, LA. He was a native of Hammond, LA and a resident of Denham Springs, LA. Age 82 years. He is a retired electrician with IBEW and a U. S. Army Veteran of WWII. Graveside Services will be held at Hillsdale Cemetery, Hillsdale, LA at 2 p.m. on Monday. Survived by wife, Lula W.Brown, Denham Springs, and his loving family. Preceded in death by son, Tim Brown, mother, Ollie Johnson Brown, father, William Carl Brown, and sister, Bonnie Ogden. McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.

Baptist Press

June 5, 2009

TENNESSEE–Ministry brings special needs families ‘out of the woodwork.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30628

TENNESSEE–Draper admitted to hospital ICU. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30638

LOUISIANA–Special needs child points to God. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30629

OKLAHOMA–Best friends: The love of Jesus in a child’s eyes. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30630

TEXAS–WNBA rookie looks to ‘be a light’ for Christ. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30631

WASHINGTON–Senate panel OKs Hamilton on party-line vote. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30632

CALIFORNIA–Apology issued for Bible study threat. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30633

TENNESSEE–CULTURE DIGEST: Internet gambling ban could be overturned. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30634

CALIFORNIA–Planned Parenthood asks Calif. funds be restored. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30635

THE NETHERLANDS–Dutch euthanasia requests increase. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30636

LOUISIANA–FIRST-PERSON (Kelly Boggs): Penumbras and emanations. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30637

KOMpray

Kids on Mission Pray

http://www.imb.org/main/pray/page.asp?StoryID=6686&LanguageID=1709

Have a great day as you prepare for the Lord’s Day!

Anna Lee

Friday

“So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you:

Take your everyday, ordinary life—

your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—

and place it before God as an offering.

Embracing what God does for you

is the best thing you can do for Him.”

~Romans 12:1 MSG~

Jesse Dean is recovering well from his surgery. Ice packs and pain medication work wonders! He’s home and doing well.

Please remember John Seal and family of the Canaan communtity as they are dealing with a growth in John’s throat,currently waiting for blood thinner level so a biopsy can be made, thanks,Kirby (Varnado)

From:
Subject:

<a id="r_quote_250" onclick="document.getElementById('r_message_250').value = 'n- – – Original message – – -nFrom:tKirby Varnado nDate:tJune 5, 2009 3:24 AMnnPlease remember John Seal and family of the Canaan communtity as they are dealing with a growth in John’s throat,currently waiting for blood thinner level so a biopsy can be made, thanks,Kirbyn’;this.style.visibility=’hidden’;return false” href=”edit-comments.php?page=scf2-contact-form/scf2-admin.php#” mce_href=”edit-comments.php?page=scf2-contact-form/scf2-admin.php#”>Quote Message Text

Susie Sharkey sent this email early yesterday morning, but I did not receive it in time to include it yesterday. The surgery went well. Pray for her as she deals with pain as she recovers.

I am having out-patient surgery today at 12:00p.m. on my right shoulder. I have a bone spur and have been in pain for the last month. Please church family pray for me. Thanks, I love you all, Susie

Mr. Walter Green Harper continues to be in rehab in Hammond. Yesterday, his wife told David he still has a lot to progress to make. Please continue to remember this special family.

Dukes Family

< two months. >
Mom and Dad were run over by a Ford Expedition on April 4th, two months ago tonight. I’ll be honest – there are times when I still wonder if we will wake up soon and this will have been a bad dream. At the same time, it has been more real and more difficult than anything I have ever walked through. God’s nearness has been real, though. And I am so thankful that His wisdom and His people have surrounded us, defining this reality as only He and His love can.

How appropriate

, then, is it that such a significant event happened today.

We had to wait to go see Mom until this afternoon, because of Dad’s appointment with his neurologist. The XRays were taken and the verdict came in. Dad’s heart was lifted when the restriction of his neck collar was lifted. THE DOCTOR SAID THAT DAD COULD TAKE OFF THE NECK COLLAR!!!

He told us that his neck had healed very well. No lifting and strength training as of yet, but Dad should definitely take off the collar and begin range-of-mo

tion rehab. His neck and shoulder muscles have been spasming quite a bit. The doctor said that was due to the muscles overreacting to the trauma that occurred in his neck. They overcompensate for the issues of the other supporting structures. He has been on muscle relaxers and will continue.

To say that Dad was happy would be an understatement. You can see it in the picture. He was very grateful. He tossed the neck collar in the back of the truck when we got out to the parking garage.

It’s good to see his neck again. His brother told him he needed to shave.

When we got to see Mom, she was being lifted back into bed from therapy. They told us she had done really well. She became very tired, though, and she wanted to get back to bed.

Mom interacted with us well yet again. We can’t tell you how thankful we have been to actually “talk” with her the last week or so. And Mom is progressing

, continuing to initiate conversation.

Her infections remain. Cultures are supposed to be done tomorrow, we think. Another bone scan will have to be done to assess the osteomyelit

is.

Mom doesn’t complain any more of a pain in her bottom. We are told her bedsore on her bottom is doing really well. We haven’t seen it this week. Her head bedsore is much better.

Erik and Mom’s sister and Dad’s sister and her husband all come into town tomorrow. I will fly out tomorrow afternoon. I am sure Erik will post over the weekend.

Please pray that Mom’s cranium piece will be replaced soon. Please pray for logistics to work out for Mom’s med-flight home. Please pray for Dad to have strong bones and a strong heart. Thanks for your continued support and prayers.

u have walked with us for two months now. We are grateful.
-jason

Denton Family

Test results came back and everything is normal. The doctors are treating Don with some new meds now and it looks like it is working.

Don will be released in the morning and we get to go home!

We are so happy about this. Home again.

I have allot to do tonight to pack and get the car ready, so I will sign off for now.

Bless you our family and friends.
Diane

Please continue to pray for my parents, Grant and Dot Smith of Roseland. Momma’s face is very swollen and bruised from her fall. Daddy is doing a good job of being her caregiver.

ARE YOU FEELING LUCKY?

The following ads are reported to have been taken from actual newspapers:

1) Free puppies: ½ cocker spaniel, ½ sneaky neighbor dog

2) Snow blower for sale … only used on snowy days

3) For sale: an antique desk suitable for lady with thick legs and large drawers.

4) 2 wire mesh butchering gloves: 1 five-finger, 1 three-finger, pair $15

5) Lost: small apricot poodle. Reward. Neutered. Like one of the family.

6) Dog for sale: eats anything and is fond of children

7) Nordic Track $300. Hardly used. Call Chubbie.

8) Found: Dirty white dog. Looks like rat. Been out awhile. Better be reward.

9) Hummels — largest selection ever. “If it’s in stock, we have it!”

10) Georgia Peaches, California grown — 89 cents/lb.

11) Nice parachute: never opened — used once, slightly stained

12) Tired of working for only $9.75 per hour? We offer profit sharing and flexible hours. Starting pay — $7-9 per hour

13) For sale by owner — complete set of Encyclopedia Brittanica. 45 volumes. Excellent condition. $1,000 obo. No longer needed. Got married last weekend. Wife knows everything.

14) LOST: One-eyed, three-legged male dog. Answers to the name “Lucky.”

I’m going to share with you one of my “pet peeves.” I don’t like the word “lucky.” And, no, it has nothing to do with the ad above. I enjoy many good things in life. I have a lot of wonderful things happen to me. And there are times that I am tempted to say, “You know, I’ve been pretty lucky.” But then I recall that my good fortune is due not to luck or happenchance, but to the hand of Almighty God. I’m not lucky; I’m blessed! God has richly provided for me in ways far beyond what I expect or deserve.

Can you picture Esther saying, “Wasn’t it lucky that the king was willing to hear my plea?”? Can you picture Paul saying, “Wasn’t it lucky that we weren’t killed in that shipwreck?”? Can you picture Daniel saying, “Wasn’t it lucky that the lions didn’t eat me?”?

Then why would I dare speak of how “lucky” I’ve been in my life? It’s not luck — it’s the providential care of a loving God!

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights…..” (James 1:17). Thank you, Father, for blessing my life so richly!

Have a great day!
Alan Smith
Helen Street Church of Christ
Fayetteville, North Carolina

God has blessed us in so many ways! I’m thankful!

Anna Lee

Thursday

“For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love

which you have shown toward His name,

in that you have ministered to the saints,

and do minister.”

~Hebrews 6:10~

Pray for Jesse Dean as he recovers from yesterday’s hand surgery.

Pray for Cissy Cutrer as she has surgery today and as she recovers later.

Pray for Elizabeth H. Cooper as she continues the long road to recovery. She’s at home now, but will be having work on her mouth/teeth for a while.

Pray for Melissa S. Johnson as she undergoes tests and waits for results.

Continue to pray for Mrs. Faye Price. She has some good days and some not so good. Pray for her family as they have stuck with her through the last six months.

Mrs. Annie Belle Harrell continues to see various doctors. She’s better, but wants to get even better. She looked very well at church Sunday.

Pray for my mother, Dot Smith of Roseland. She has had two more falls. Pray she will begin to use her new walker. Pray for Daddy as he is with her each day and for my sisters and me as we assist as needed.

From Mr. Luther Ricks (yesterday)

I will have Radation treatment #21 today, only 22 more. Doing great, have some minor problems, but nothing major sofar. Thanks again for all the prayers. They do work. Thanks again.

Jimmy and Retia Dukes

< standing tall. >
Yesterday was a BIG DAY for both Mom and Dad. The t-shirt Dad had on yesterday that I mentioned in a quick post read “STAND TALL.” He did, working hard in out-patient therapy. Mom did, too.

After his 8:00 and 11:00 appointment

s, we headed to see Mom. When we got there, she was being prepared to go to therapy in the rehab room. They lifted her and rolled her and got her set to go. The goal yesterday – to get Mom upright. They went right to it.

As you can see in the picture, Mom needed a lot of help. They helped lean her forward in the chair. They helped set her feet. They helped by holding under her arms. They helped by lifting her out of the seat. They helped by holding her up. They said she did bear some weight. She stood there for about 20 seconds. She did it three straight times.

We cheered!!!

That is a BIG DEAL, and an answer to prayer for sure. The standing exercise sapped her of energy. They asked her how she was. She said, “About dead.” But she pressed on, doing about six or seven more exercises with her shoulders and arms and hands. She did really well. She stood as tall as she could. Which is saying a lot, considering how short it has been since she lay motionless on Chef Menteur Highway.

Mom continued to talk through her passy muir valve. She did today, too, when Dad and I were there. We are about to go back up. When we were there a little while ago, she interacted with us really well. Even initiated conversation. It did Dad’s heart good.

We are about to go see her again with a husband and wife that Mom and Dad knew when they lived in Atlanta. Afterward, something else is going to do Dad’s heart good. Well, maybe not physically. I’m not sure. But definitely a comfort and feel-good. DRAGO’S. More char-grilled oysters. I’ll get the pasta.

Still working on figuring out how to get Dad preaching from Sunday up online. YouTube said it was too long. Pretty bad when a website is calling you long-winded. I’ll let you know when it is available.

Also, please pray for Dad tomorrow. He has his next appointment with the neurologist. He is definitely hoping for good news about that neck collar.

Keep praying for Mom and Dad as you are able. It means so much.

Tonight, I am going to try to post some other pictures on my blog from the last two days. I will let you know tomorrow if they get up.

Thankful for y’all.
-jason

Don Denton

This morning Don had CT Scan of his chest and abdomen. Tonight he had MRI of abdomen.

We met with doctors this morning. They have started Don on a new med to help with the pain. He is responding. They also now feel that this headache pain is from “low pressure on the brain” from the lumbar drain.

Don actually ate ceral for breakfast this morning and he kept it down. Yes!

He feels somewhat better today. He is still not able to sit up but soon I feel he will be able to.

No test results have come back as of yet. Today as I was “waiting”, I realized that since the end of March we have been at Barnes 3 times totaling 34 days today. Ugh! Now I know why Joshua “hates” hospitals.

David Rice and John Smashey are still taking care of our pets and our house. WE are so grateful to them. So grateful. I could not do this without you all. I just could not.

I so hope that these tests will tell us something. My precious husband is amazing through all of this. He continues to hold onto each day. I am so thankful that he does.

Please pray for his spirit. Pray that he will be encouraged from these test results. Pray that the doctors will find the best kind of treatment for him.

Bless you our family and friends.
Diane

Dwayne and Tricia Wilson and mission trip

Dear Teammates,

This Saturday will mark 3 weeks until we leave for El Salvador. We have a few more prayer requests, and as we get closer to the date of departure, I’m sure we’ll have some more!

Dwayne and I have been assigned to be small group leaders within our team. Our major role is to be the facilitators when we go into a classroom to share the Gospel……introducing the team, transitioning between games/ice breakers to someone sharing his/her small group presentation, transitioning to the Gospel, and then transitioning to giving out care packs. There are other roles, too, such as being the communication link between our Team Leader and our small group, keeping track of our group, and preparing our group for each site (to name a few). Please pray that we will do our best to fulfill our role and also that we will enjoy it and have a great bond with our small group.

I thought I’d leave you with a list of those going with us. I have been praying for one of these people each day lately because team unity is huge in these kinds of trips. I know Satan would love it if we cannot work well together or get along!

(Names omitted by ala)

Dwayne and I still have a bit to do to prepare our small group presentations (especially Dwayne). Please pray we will get this together soon, also that we will be very familiar with sharing the Gospel bead bracelet!

All for now,

Tricia

Linda Jean Roland Harrell

Linda Jean Roland Harrell, born July 4, 1956, passed away in Dallas on Wednesday, May 13, 2009, in the company of her husband, three children, parents, sister, brother and devoted friends. She was a native of Baton Rouge, where she was christened and married in the First United Methodist Church. She graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1974 and attended LSU where she joined her mother’s sorority, Delta Zeta. Following her graduation from Centenary College in 1980, she moved to Dallas. Linda then embarked on her true calling of devoted mother. She immersed herself into whatever schools and activities her children were then engaged, ranging from classroom mom and Cub Scout leader to football mom and Highlandette officer mom. The mere suggestion that a child of hers would enjoy less than an optimum experience would galvanize her into action. An accomplished seamstress with an eye for color and a talent for design, her children were always assured of original, hand-sewn clothes and extravagant Halloween costumes. Events in which she participated were always well decorated. Despite shuttling kids to two or three practices or rehearsals each day and numerous games and performances on weekends, her neighbors and friends knew she could always be counted upon in time of need whether it be the stray ride or errand or the care and feeding of those in need. Friends of her children always knew where they could come for a midnight feeding, which always included a large bowl of her legendary chips and queso. As her children grew, her activities revolved around Lake Highlands High School and later Texas Tech University, Ole Miss and the U.S. Naval Academy where she became the president of the Naval Academy Parents Club of North Texas. With her children “out of the house” she turned her maternal attention to our service men by becoming very active in the Lake Highlands Military Moms. She is survived by her husband, T. Michael Harrell; children, Michael Linder Harrell, Lauren Elizabeth Harrell and Ensign Robert Alexander “Alex” Harrell; parents, Robert Linder Roland and Betty Shirley Roland; brother, Robert Langford Roland, his wife, Erin, and their children, Ashley and Gage, all of Baton Rouge; sister, Sissy Roland Broome, of Kentwood; and aunt, Naomi Shirley, of Baton Rouge. Visitation will be at First United Methodist Church, Baton Rouge, on Friday, June 5, from 3 p.m. until memorial service and inurnment at 4 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church – “The Future is Now” fund, 930 North Blvd., Baton Rouge, LA 70802 or a charity of choice.

Have a great day! Please share information that you would like shared on The Prayer Link. Thank-you for praying each day. You mean so much to so many!

Anna Lee

Wednesday

“Let your eyes look forward;

fix your gaze straight ahead.

Carefully consider the path for your feet,

and all your ways will be established.”

~Proverbs 4:25-26, HCSB~

Don Denton

Don is now on the neurology floor. His status has not changed. He is stable, but he is not able to eat nor sit up. His headaches are a constant. There is a possibility that these headaches could be partly from what they call: low pressure on the brain. This can occur from the lumbar drain. They did take the lumbar drain out yesterday.

We did not meet with the neuro team today. They have assured us that they will meet with us tomorrow.

They did another CT Scan last night and they will be doing another MRI in the morning.

Tonight my goal is to get to bed earlier. We have another long day tomorrow.

We continue to give thanks to God for Anne and Frank who have so generously and graciously opened their home to us again.

I am reminded in the midst of all of this difficulty in our life that God tells us to believe like a child. I was reminded of that tonight when my son, Frank and his grandaughter were outside and Josh saw lightening bugs. His eyes lit up and the wonder and awe that flowed from his expressions were a breath of fresh air to me. For those moments I was able to take delight in his delight and enjoy the moment. He caught them, put them in jar and they were his “nightlight” for a few moments tonight.

I have talked often of “perspective” when I write. Tonight was another one of those times that God has reminded me that He delights in us. He loves us in the midst of this terrible thing that has happened to our family, to my husband. He loves us through his people.

So thank you God for your wonder, for your love and your grace and mercy, which we so need. Thank you God for those who reach out to my son, Don and me.

Bless you
Diane

Baptist Press

June 2, 2009

WASHINGTON–Evangelicals frustrated by Obama’s ‘Gay Pride Month’ proclamation. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30597

KENYA–Aid targets famine in Kenya’s Rift Valley. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30598

TEXAS–CP helps ‘reap more than you sow.’ http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30599

TENNESSEE–CP down 2.78%; off ’09 budget by 1.85%. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30600

ALABAMA–FIRST-PERSON (Chris Bonts): Thank you, Southern Baptists. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30601

TENNESSEE–FIRST-PERSON (Kenneth S. Hemphill): Once upon a time.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30605

ARKANSAS–Ouachita marks 10th anniv. of tragic plane crash. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30602

KENTUCKY–FIRST-PERSON (R. Albert Mohler Jr.): A test for the pro-life movement. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30603

TEXAS–FIRST-PERSON (John M. Yeats): Multi-site? Please press pause. http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=30604

KneEmail

“At the name of Jesus every knee should bow…” Philippians 2:10

Mike Benson, Editor

A FELLOW GOSPEL preacher relates the following story…

“The first year of our marriage was spent on a farm. My wife, though reared on a farm, always allowed her parents to take care of killing as well as preparing frying chickens for the dinner table. Her father would put a chicken over a block and chop its head off. While I, on the other hand, was accustomed to catching a chicken and wringing it neck. After we had been married a while, we had some chickens ready for eating. I picked up a nice plump fryer, handed it to my wife, and told her to wring its neck. (After all, to be a good farm wife, she would need to learn these things.) She took the chicken by the neck and began spinning him around and around. She then dropped him on the ground, where he lay stunned and confused for a moment. Suddenly, the chicken hopped up on his legs and ran out of sight. After 45 years of marriage, the two of us still laugh when we remember that incident!”

If we’re not careful, we can treat sin like this preacher’s wife treated that chicken many years ago. She didn’t kill it; she only disturbed it and ruffled its feathers a bit. The Bible tells us that we must mortify (e.g., put to death) the sin that is in our lives.

If you want fried chicken, somebody must kill the chicken. Likewise, if you want to go to heaven, you must put to death the sin in your life. (Mike Benson)

“Therefore put to death your members which are on the earth:

fornication, uncleanness, passion, evil desire,

and covetousness, which is idolatry.

Because of these things the wrath of God is coming

upon the sons of disobedience.”

~Colossians 3:5-6~

Make today count!

Anna Lee

Tuesday Afternoon

Jimmy Dukes

< look at those legs go!!! >
Yep! That’s Dad. Still can’t bear weight on his left leg fully, but he can ride a stationary bike. And he did this morning in his first appointment for out-patient therapy here in New Orleans at Ochsner Elmwood. His T-Shirt reads “stand tall,” and he did. He worked hard and did so well in this first session.

The session this morning was “physical therapy.” His first “occupational therapy” session is at 11:00 CST (in about an hour). In between the two, guess where we are? I’ll give you three guesses…how’d you guess that so quickly?

Starbucks. It’s right across the street. The out-patient rehab is in the same building as the in-patient rehab facility where Dad was just 15 days ago. So, in between sessions we are grabbing a latte at this very familiar Starbucks. I’m posting to Caring Bridge. Dad is returning a phone call and checking email. We will walker back out to the truck here in a few minutes, head back across the street, and go at it with occupational therapy soon.

After that, we will grab a quick lunch and go see Mom. Always look forward to seeing her.

A quick post this time. I will post again tonight. Just wanted to celebrate with you. Thankful for your prayers and how they have lifted up Dad. He is doing well.
-jason

John Fairburn
(October 29, 1937 – June 1, 2009)

Sign Guest Book

Died at 2:09 p.m. on Monday, June 1, 2009 at his residence in Spring Creek at the age of 71 years. He was a native of Independence and a retired Police Officer from the Baton Rouge Police Department. He is survived by his wife, Sybil Dykes Fairburn, Spring Creek; 3 sons, John Thomas Fairburn and wife, Cherie, Birmingham, AL, Steven Mark Fairburn, Baton Rouge, and Charles David Fairburn and wife, Kelly, Baton Rouge; 8 grandchildren; 1 great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Dora Fairburn; 3 brothers, Clarence, Bernard and Richard Fairburn. Visitation at Spring Creek Baptist Church from 9 a.m. until religious services at 1 p.m. Thursday, June 4, 2009. Services conducted by Rev. Danny Smith. Interment Woodland Cemetery, Kentwood.

Inez Finch McDowell

Inez Finch McDowell, 79, and a resident of Waco, Texas, passed away Thursday, May 28, 2009, at her home. She was born on Jan. 29, 1930, in Amite, and graduated from Woodland High School, Hillsdale, and Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond. She was a former business education teacher in Texas and London. Survived by her daughters, Marsha Moffett and Karen Townsend; grandson, Courtland Best; granddaughter, Karla Rather; great-granddaughter, Megan Best; sisters, Collean Bickham, Imelda Davis and Jeanette Finch; and brothers, Karl Finch and Jerry Finch. Preceded in death by her parents, Viola Sharkey Finch and Willie J. Finch; son, John F. McDowell; husband, Tyre E. McDowell; and brothers, Glyn T. Finch and Willie Z. Finch. Graveside service was held in Killeen, Texas, and a memorial service will be held in Baton Rouge at a later date.

Tuesday

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path”

~Psalm 119:105~

Kathy Jo Thompson (Amite)

Wow…it has been a while! I am doing good. My back is healing well. The muscles still hurt especially later during the day. I can’t stay in one position for long so it makes it hard to do things. I am working for the summer with the 4-H extension office in St. Tammany. Today is my first day and it is going well, I don’t do much.ha I am scheduled to go back to Maryland in July for more MRis and the doctor wants to look at the tumor in my cervical spine (my neck) because my hands are going numb and becoming cold. I graduated May 15th from LSU it was great! I have a degree!!!

Jimmy and Retia Dukes (New Orleans)

< signs of life. >
Someone on the Guestbook asked me to update everyone on Mom’s tomato plant back at their home. Well, funny you asked. My wife just stopped by to water it and get the mail and trigger the alarm (happens every time almost – she does it right, it’s just got a mind of its own and is overprotective). When she stopped by today, she emailed me this picture. Pretty awesome to see signs of life.

Mom continues to show those signs, too. She had another great therapy session today. The therapists told us it was a great workout. Mom especially enjoyed her shoulder massage, they said. She held her head up high while they rubbed her shoulders. Who wouldn’t?

The wound care folks said Mom’s bedsores are doing really well. The one on her head is almost healed completely. The one on her bottom is progressing well. They have been using a wound vac to treat it, as we wrote a while back, and that treatment has been effective. Kind of gross, but effective. Signs of life!

On top of all that, Mom is extending both arms and hands to hold our hand. She is waving with her right hand when we leave. There is an issue in her right arm with the “pick line.” So, they are moving it. It had caused some swelling. I long for the day when IV meds are not required any longer. Pray for that end.

We don’t think of it this way probably, but infections are signs of life, too. Maybe not the kind we want to see. Well, definitely not the kind we want to see. However, Mom’s infections continue. She has two now in her lungs, the one still in her tailbone, and one in her urine. Her blood was clear the last culture they took. They took another one over the weekend, the nurse said. Results should be back in tomorrow or so. Please pray for those infections to clear, for those meds to be 100% effective, and for her body to not be permanently affected from the infections and meds.

Mom also showed us greater signs of life with regard to her speech. She talked some more, they said, during therapy this morning (they got her early today before Dad and I got there). She was very talkative (mouth-ative) when Dad and I got there. She didn’t have her passy muir valve in for some reason, but she mouthed our head off!!! Which was wonderful – not like when you complain of someone talking your head off. This is a sign of life we want and have been hoping for. She mouthed full sentences and questions and interacted with us well. We are very thankful. Please pray for those vocal cords to show greater signs of life in the coming days.

Speaking of Mom’s speech, did I mention Dad’s speech? I mean preach. That’s right! Dad preached yesterday. Gentilly Baptist Church and Dr. Ken Taylor asked Dad to preach yesterday morning in their worship gathering, and he did it. He stood, leaning on his right leg and his walker, and brought the Word. Our church family in Orlando prayed for him during that time. We were all excited about it. Definitely a sign of life for Dad. It’s what he was wired to do. And, he does it really well. Even with a neck collar, a leg boot, a walker, and jogging pants. He’s just cool that way.

Just in case you were just thinking, “Man. Jimmy preached! I wonder if they recorded it? I hope they did. I would love to hear it!”

You are in luck!!! Thanks to Becky Brown and Vanee Daure and to Benji and Jenna, the moment was preserved for ages to come. At least as long as digital recording works and YouTube keeps web-broadcasting.

The DVD copies of it are being burned today to share with family. Jenna is going to upload it to YouTube today or tomorrow or soon. When she does, I will give you the link. I can’t wait to see him, showing those signs of life by sharing about the life we have been given.

Well, we are heading to supper. Two Tony’s. An Italian restaurant in the Buckhead part of town, by the lake. Cool spot.

By the way – you see that “show you care” thermometer on the right side of this page? Well, I got asked about it a few days ago. It’s a promotion from Caring Bridge to support Caring Bridge. Which is a good thing to do. Just letting you know, it is not the “Jimmy-and-Retia-Dukes Help-fund Thermometer.” Someone asked me if it was. That fund Erik mentioned a while back was set up by the New Orleans Baptist Seminary and is managed by them. No thermometer has been created yet that I know of. Maybe we could use the Chapel steeple for it. I’ll let you know if they approve and send pics.

Love yall. I’ll holler tomorrow.
-jason

Don Denton (St. Louis)

Yesterday was a good day for Don! He ate. It was short lived because today he was sick again all day could not lift his head from the pillow.

I spoke in dept with his neurologist this evening. Don will be moved from the neurosurgery floor to the neurology floor tonight or in the morning. They are going to switch some of his meds to manage the pain. They are going to conduct a few more tests as well. If they can manage his pain they will be sending us home by the middle of the week hopefully.

We will await further test results. They found red and white blood cells in his spinal fluid. The white blood cells are of concern as it is a high number. We continue to wait for test results which could go into next week.

We are working at being more thoughtful about what happens next. Our goal is to get the neurologist here at Barnes to consult with our neurologist back at Mayo. I spoke with our neurologist at Mayo today as well. He wants all of Don’s clinical records to review.

Once he reviews those clinical records we will discuss what is next.

I have been burning a candle at both ends again. It is hard to sleep at night with my mind racing with questions.

Thanks to our friends from church for getting some much needed clothes to Joshua and I. WE had come up here with so little not expecting a hospital stay.

Your emails and caringbridge posts to me lift my spirits and so encourage me more than you can know. I look forward to them and I hold onto the words you all write to me. Some days at the end of the day I am so discouraged; and then I find emails in my box that contain your words that minister to me more than you can know. I find that I hold onto these words of hope, words of affirmation, love and care throughout my days. I am moved deeply by your compassion toward us. I know this is from our heavenly father.

The doctors here are still saying that they don’t know if they can help Don. Some of them are praying too. They have seen what we have been through and are going through. They see our discouragement and our hope.

I have allot to get accomplished over the next few days. I was so tired today as I could not sleep much last night at all. It can be tough to stay focused on what is important when I am depleted like this.

Pray that we can get our doctor at Mayo and Barnes to consult with one another. Pray that we can get the records in a timely manner. Pray that Don will respond to the new meds they are going to start him on.

Pray that they will find the answer so they will better know how to treat Don. They are sending out his lumbar fluid samples for further testing as well.

I will do my best to post sometime tomorrow. The computer at the hospital today was down and I was there from early morning to this evening.

Joshua had a good day today with actually a very special student from SBU. Mary Jane is a sophmore at SBU and she happens to be the niece of a women that my brother/wife – Steve and Lynn are friends with here in St. Louis. She found out that we needed help with childcare and offered her time to help us.

Joshua took to her right away because she is so wonderful with kids and second she knows how to build legos. She too is a Godsend to us.

Bless you
Diane

Gunky

I SAW THIS sign at a gas station while I was traveling…

It made me think about instances when I’ve had to deal with “gunky build-up” in my life. For me, gunky build-up occurs when I let less important stuff squeeze out the real priorities in my life. Maybe you’ve experienced it too:

. Sometimes I believe the lie that I can’t afford to take a break and rest. The reality is that I’m far less effective in my family and leadership roles when I’m tired and grumpy.

. Sometimes I believe the lie that I’ll spend quality time with my wife at the end of the day after everything else is done. The reality is that the last things on my priority list rarely get done.

. Sometimes I believe the lie that I’ll get to the next big projects after I knock out the more routine tasks. The reality is that there will always be other routine tasks to complete.

. Sometimes I believe the lie that the more I do, the more valuable I am to the team. The reality is that I’m not being effective if I’m busy doing the wrong things.

. Sometimes I believe the lie that the little problem I have isn’t jeopardizing my leadership. The reality is that most times everyone else is already being impacted by my little problem.

. Sometimes I believe the lie that I need to correct every false statement and negative comment. The reality is that many times those faint voices become a distraction when I draw attention and make them loud.

. Sometimes I believe the lie that goals will be accomplished without a plan if I’m just patient and faithful. The reality is that most goals worth pursuing require counsel and strategy and hard work and commitment.

. Sometimes I believe the lie that I need to jump at a good opportunity. The reality is that someone will always have a good opportunity for me to pursue, and many times those good opportunities squeeze out time and energy needed to fulfill a greater mission and calling.

Do you know that I’m talking about? Have you dealt with similar cases of gunky build-up? I’m still trying to learn how to deal with this, but along the way I’ve also learned some preventive maintenance that helps clean up my engine. Here are some things I’ve learned I need to do to “de-gunk” my life:

. Schedule my week in advance, including scheduling time to work on major projects.
. Prioritize time with my wife.
. Surround myself with friends who will push back when needed.
. Stay disciplined about my faith, my exercise, and my eating habits.
. Learn to say no.
. Decide in advance what I hope to accomplish.

So is it time for you to stop the gunky build-up in your life? Now is the time to do something about it. Don’t delay. (Tony Morgan)

“But one thing is needed….” Luke 10:42

Posted by Mike Benson

Thank-you for being there to pray each day. You mean so much to so many!

Anna Lee

Monday Noon

Wade William Dearman Sr.

Funeral services for Wade William Dearman Sr. will be held in the chapel of Hixson Brothers, Alexandria, at 11 a.m. Tuesday, June 2, with the Rev. David Boothe officiating. Burial will be in Forest Lawn Memorial Park, Ball. Visitation begins at the funeral home at 9 a.m. A loving husband, father and grandfather, Wade William Dearman, 81, of Baton Rouge, passed away Friday, May 29, 2009, at his home. Mr. Dearman, an avid bass fisherman, worked in the school system for 39 years. He was a football coach for 18 years having coached at Kentwood, Franklinton and Bolton High School. Mr. Dearman was an assistant principal at Bolton High School and coordinator of Migrant Education and Vocations Education for Rapides Parish School Board. He was also the first assistant principal at Alexandria Senior High. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ernest H. and Eva Mae Rouse Dearman. Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 56 years, Mary Dearman; daughter, Dianne Sykora and husband Jim; sons, Bill Dearman and wife Janet, and Clay Dearman and wife Katie; six grandchildren, Jon and Jay Sykora, Matthew and Steven Dearman and Nicholas and Jo Katherine Dearman; brothers, Aven V. Dearman and wife Marvene, Earnest C. Dearman and wife Gerri, and Donald D. Dearman and wife Maxine. Pallbearers will be Jon Sykora, Jay Sykora, Joe Arabie, Matthew Dearman, Steven Dearman and Nicholas Dearman. Honorary pallbearers are Aubrey Sanders, Jesse Doyle and Dr. Tom Robinson.