The Visitor » The Visitor – September 14, 2008

Here and There
by Wes Price

The first plane struck the first tower at 8:46 a.m. and the second
struck the second tower at 9:03 a.m. And thus began a drama this nation had never before witnessed. We had been attacked inside our country by an outside enemy for the first time, and with devastating results. These crashes were followed by one into the Pentagon and another destined probably for the capitol or the White House and was rescued by brave men who forced the plane to crash into an open field in Pennsylvania. A strange paradox: Men who were destined to give their lives for a terrorist plot was matched by men who gave their lives to prevent further innocent lives from being taken. We remember all those brave men and women who toiled endlessly to try anmd rescue survivors from the burning wreckage of the buildings. Such is the character of citizens who give no thought for their own safety when they can rescue others. What an honor to pay tribute to them.
Where were you when you first heard the news? Later that afternoon this church came together for its first memorial service in honor of 9-11 and we have been doing so since that time. On Thursday, 30 of our members came again to celebrate the painful memorial. The most moving part of the service was our season of prayer in which nearly all the men present participated. I wish all of you could have been present to hear these godly men offer up prayers of thanksgiving, requests for the protection of God for the future and a request that God would bless those families who lost loved ones in all the crashes. A personal thanks to all of you who came.
Let’s remember to pray for our country in this coming election, that God will place His blessings on the men whom the people elect. It is especially critical during the present crisis with the problems in foreign countries where our brave men and women face death every day. It is also critical that the man selected be one who respects the laws of God and does more than just pay lip service to them.
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The Ladies and Mens Bible Classes got off to a great start last Tuesday, but there were some regulars missing. I hope they will resume their habit of joining us on Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m. For some great studies in the Bible.
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We will resume our studies in the life of Christ on Wednesday night with lessons provided by Richard Rogers on DVD. I hope you will join us for these inspiring lessons.
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TRUTH MAKES US FREE
If you were a slave, would you want to be made free? Of course you would! The truth of the matter is that every responsible person who is not a Christian is a slave to Satan. In Romans 6:16-18, Paul makes it clear that we are either slaves to sin or slaves to righteousness. There are no other options. There is no neutral ground.
Jesus said, “You shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free.” John 8:32. The truth which makes us free is the word of God. The Bible is the word of God.
Most of us would be very upset if we lived in a country which forbids people to possess a copy of the Bible. This is true of Muslim countries. Consider this carefully. What difference would it make if you were not allowed to have a copy of the Bible, or, having a Bible you never open it?
God said of ancient Israel, “My people perish for a lack of knowledge.” The Bible is replete with places where people are admonished to know and understand the word of God.
Many churches are no longer true to the Book. Many innovations have been introduced. They may still have a sign on the door which reads “Church of Christ” but that does make a church the Lord’s church. Why have we gone astray? A lack of knowledge, or, knowing the truth we do not love it and obey it.
Considering the widespread disinterest in Bible classes, is it any wonder our people do not know the word of God? Add to that a pulpit that sends forth narratives and current events instead of the word of God and the problem is compounded.
As we give added emphasis to Bible School, please prayerfully cooperate and be a part of our Bible classes. It will bless you and it will bless the church.
Lewis G. Hale

Prayer List
Jimmy Mooney is scheduled for surgery, Wed. 09/17 at 9:45 a.m. at Charlton.
Dorothy Mooney, Jimmy’s mother, does have cancer.
Fran Womelsdorff is having blood pressure and heart problems.
Roger Jackson had surgery Wednesday and is recovering at home.
Mark Locke, Jacob & Joyce’s son, is having tests at Baylor.
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Annabel Locke, Dorothy Jackson, Ada Couch, Faelyn Watson, Oleta Landin,Lillian Rowland, Ed Horn, Jack & Oleta Armstrong, Marie Works, Grady Theobalt,Larry Reynolds, Robert G. Bell, Doris Henry, Roger Schrum, Catherine Jayroe,Evelyn Dillon, Angie Sabedra, Nancy Spurgeon, Carmen McMillion, Vertie Lee Stanley, Treva Traylor, Urbanelle Cox, Billie Morgan, Bea Dipprey, Ruby Faas,Lois Rodriquez, Weldon Siler, Holly Lee, Cathy Wood, Ida Smith, Joe Benedick, Catherine Coronado, Marjorie Moore, Geraldine Hurley, Dr J. & Dorothy Coats,
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The Ladies’ & Men’s Bible Classes – Tuesday, at 10:30 a.m.
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VITAL SIGNS: Sept. 7
Bible Study 71
Morning Worship 97
Afternoon Worship 59
Offering $3,164.00
Budget $3,410.46
Wed. Sept. 3 47
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You are invited to see our weekly bulletin on the church’s web site at
jeffersonblvd.org
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What a wonderful way to begin Sunday mornings. Watch “In Search of the Lord’s Way” on Channel 27 at 7:00 a.m. followed by “The Truth In Love” at 7:30 a.m. on Channel 52.
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The following is a note from Oleta Landin.
Dear Brothers & Sisters in Christ
Thank you for all the cards, calls, and expressions of love and
willingness to help during my sister’s hospitalization and hospice care.
Lillian Rowland and I love each of you very much.
Oleta Landin
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Reflections
by Jack Armstrong

I don’t know how you all feel, but when some men get up to lead a prayer it’s as though they are talking to the Lord directly by the things they say!
I can’t remember whose it was, but I want to pass on to you a sweet, meaningful prayer I once heard, and it has stayed with me for many years and it goes as follows:
Most gracious and loving Heavenly Father, we thank you so much for this beautiful Lord’s day. It is the day of days for our soul’s refreshment. Lord may we realize that this is the day, and the hour that you have especially planned and provided soul food for our hungry, and thirsty spirits. We know it’s not the time for entertainment, but a time to learn how to overcome temptation, reassurance of God’s love, and a brief glimpse again of the glory of your house. Please let your “man of God” point our way to duty , and let us be wise enough to follow.
Be with all our leaders that they may include you in their council, when making decisions that all things will be done according to your will, and always may the words of our mouths, and the meditation of our hearts be according to your will, our Lord and our redeemer. In Jesus precious name we pray. Amen.”
Of course, mention was made to remember all the sick and afflicted, all those in the service, and all the ones in the nursing homes and the shut-ins, and the wayward. This prayer covered all, and I’ve only heard few men that lead this type prayer, and we have some of them right here at the JBCoC. We won’t mention them, but you all know who they are.
From what my Oleta tells me, Alma Faye’s ladies class has some ladies who also lead beautiful prayers in their class, at which I’m not the least surprised.
Carmen, Vertie Lee, Fayelyn, Lillian and all of you who have been out
a while, we sure do miss you. Muriel we hope you are much better, too! It was so good to have Joyce & Oleta back last Lord’s day.
Alletha Lee, we sure do miss you and are looking forward to seeing you soon. We love you!
Well, folks we’ve got to leave the “Ed” some room, so we’ll see you next time, the good Lord willing.

Remember…”When Duty Becomes Desire”
Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful)