The Visitor » 2010 » August

A CHOSEN PEOPLE Roger Owen
I remember growing up playing sandlot baseball almost every single day. My parents owned the empty lot beside the lot our house was on, so a lot of our games were played right there beside my home. We played there when we only had a few players for each team and that made the field smaller to have to cover. If we had a large number of players, then we went to the city park that was across the street.

The games were always organized the same. Two team captains were selected, a coin was tosed, and whoever won the coin toss got to pick first. Then the two captains alternated choosing players for their team until all were chosen. Two things influenced the picking order, talent and being best friends. You wanted the best players on your team and you wanted to “team up” with your closest friends. No one wanted to be the last one taken. Even being next to last still meant you were wanted more than the last one picked. The last one remaining was considered to be “forced” upon whoever was stuck with the last pick.

In athletics it really is the same as one grows up. High school athletes are posturing themselves to be chosen by the college of their choice for a scholarship. Professional teams conduct a draft to chooe their players and everyone wants to be a first round pick. Free agents are even signed by choice. The teams only sign the players they want. Many a college and professional player have talked about being extremely motivated when they play against certain teams because “they didn’t want me on their team.” Every- one wanted to be chosen.

In previous articles we have discussed how we are to be a peculiar people and an influential people in God’s kingdom. The third part of a trilogy of what kind of people we should be is the fact that we are a CHOSEN people on God’s team!

Peter tells us Jesus was “chosen and precious in the sight of God,” and “he was a cornerstone chosen and precious” (1 Peter 2:4,6). God told Ananias in Acts 9:15 that Saul “is a chosen instrument of mine to carry my name before the Gentiles.” Revelation 17:14 tells us those who are with the Lamb “are called chosen and faithful.”

Chosen people are special people. “Many are called, but few are chosen” (Matthew 20:16; 22:14). “For we know brothers, loved by God, that he has chosen you, because our gospel came to you not only in word, but also in power” (1 Thessalonians 1:4-5). And, “you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession…now you are God’s people.” It is not only great to be chosen, but it is really great to be chosen by the best “chooser”!

God’s chosen people are privileged. They are justified by him into a salvation for all eternity. “Who shall bring any charge against God’s elect (chosen ones)? It is God who justifies” (Romans 8:33). “Will not God give justice to his elect, who cry to him day and night” (Luke 18:7)? “He will send out his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds” (Matthew 24:31). Paul was willing to “endure everything for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” (11 Timothy 2:10).

God’s chosen people are not invincible. They can be kicked off the team! “False christs and false prophets will arise and perform great signs and wonders so as to lead astray, if possible, even the elect” (Matthew 24:24). Peter tells us that once we are drafted, we have to “work out hard” to be able to perform to the best of our abilities if we are to stay with the team. “Therefore, brothers, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure for if you practice these qualities (faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection and love, vs. 5), you will never fall” (1 Peter 1:10).

Therefore, God’s chosen people have a tremendous responsibility that goes along with that election. “Abstain from the passions of the flesh…keep your conduct honorable” (1 Peter 2:11-12). They are to increase their faith through “the knowledge of the truth which accords with godliness” (Titus 1:1). And they should “put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness and patience, bearing with one another, and if anyone has a complaint against another, forgiving each other.”

What a fantastic privilege and blessing it is to be chosen by God! And what a huge responsibility we then have to “perform” to a level equal to that election! ————

PRAYER LIST
Wes Price is now home and doing better.

Jennie Wright is improving and she would like for you to continue your prayers in her behalf.

Jimmy Mooney will begin taking chemo soon and we pray he will soon be in remission.
Rick Ramsey received his test results and cancer has returned, and he is again on strong doses of chemo. We all pray that he will soon be in remission once again.

Muriel McMillion’s problem can be treated with medication. Muriel and Sylvia would like to thank all of you for your prayers.

Special prayer request for Don Bowman and Family.

Continue to remember: Sylvia McMillion; Fran Womelsdorff; Mary Ruth Percival; R. C. Bell; Jim & Elaine Birkhead; Lois Rodriquez; Jimmy Mooney’s mother, Dorothy; The Tyson Family.

REMEMBER ALL OTHERS ON THE PRAYER LIST
Donna Denise Allen; George Bailey; Addie Bennett; Dr. “J” Coats; Perry Cotham; Urbanelle Cox; Carol & Pete Diamond; Tom Duvall; Ruby Faas; Rita Harrison; Doris Henry; Bill Hinton; Bob and Madeline Hinton; Ed Horn; Mary Catherine Jayroe; Oleta Landin; Nancy Lindley; Pat Mitchell; Billie Morgan; Bobby Muirhead (sister of Billie & Jean Thompson); Lula Murray; Vernon Percival; Henrietta Pummill; Mildred Sala; Dan Sherbit; Nancy Spurgeon; Treva Traylor; Marie Works.

Vital Signs: August 22, 2010 Bible Study 53 Offering: $2,622.75 Budget $2,893.27

Morning Worship 72 Afternoon Worship: 50 50 Wed. Eve. Bible Study, 8/18 -34 ———–

CHANGE: The phone number for Domingo Martinez is

469-951-7190

The number in our directory belongs to Josh.

———–

“Looking Forward” by Jack Armstrong We We received some bad news on 8/22/10. Bro. Wes had to go back in the hospital for some of the same problems. We pray this will only be a setback and he will be right back with us soon.

I’m trying to cover sweet Mamie’s job of sending the bulletin to those who miss on Sunday A.M. and send them a little note along with it, and believe me it’s a pretty tough job keeping up with the absentees. She did a remarkable job of it!

I know we’ll be glad when this old hot weather subsides and it cools off once again. It makes it awfully hard to breathe for all who have breathing problems, but it could be a lot worse.

Rick won’t know about his test until 8/25/10 and we pray it comes out real good. We also pray Muriel’s tests came out good and Sylvia continues to do well. Be sure and keep Jimmy Mooney in your prayers. We miss the Bells and the Swansons when they can’t be with us, as we do all of you who can’t always make the services.

We thank the Lord daily for Bro. Roger Owen and Linda for filling in when Wes has to be out. Roger is truly an answer to a lot of prayers. They have been here so long now they are just a part of our bunch. I know Wes feels a lot better to have such a capable man to cover for him.

Oleta wants to thank all of you who have asked about her while she is out with her bad foot, and called to offer encouragement.

Vernon Percival called to give us an update on Mary Ruth, and he said she is not able to put any weight on her injured ankle and it will probably be several more weeks before she can get back with us.

Our attendance has been holding up pretty good even with all those who are out sick. The Bible classes are staying good too!

If you didn’t read the piece in our Visitor about “The Snake Pit”, you should read it because it really tells it like it is. Wade Webster uses Hebrews 10:24-25 as his reference for the story.

Well, folks I guess I’d best sign off for now since it is time to get ready for the evening service.

We’ll see you soon the Good Lord willing. We pray all of our sick and shut-ins are doing much better and all the tests come out good.

See you soon “Here and There”. Hang in there!

Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful)

Here and There by Wes Price
We concluded out study in the book of Ephesians this past Wednesday evening with our DVD of Avon Malone. As has been the custom over these past several weeks, Roger Owen has concluded each lesson with a comprehensive discussion on the same text covered by Avon. This coming Wednesday evening, August 25, we will begin a new study with Avon Malone in the book of Philippians. I will assume responsibity for the concluding discussion after each lesson. My profound thanks to Roger Owen for his help. Of course, he will continue to be with us on Sundays until I gain more strength. How fortunate we are to have him with us.

Your assignment for next Wednesday evening prior to our beginning our studies in Philippians is to read the book at one sitting, without distractions and if you have a second translation or version of the Scriptures, read that too. I believe you will profit by this background to our studies together.
————-
Jack Armstrong now has a new newspaper column in the Duncanville Suburban, called, OPINION. The first article is posted on the Bulletin Board in the Community Room. Check it out, you’ll appreciate what he has to say. Good job, Jack!

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I received a call early this past week from Mack Lyon to check on my well-being. He and his wife Lois will be in our area this next week beginning a meeting at the church in Crandall. He and Lois paid us a visit on Saturday afternoon before going on to Crandall.
————-

Our “sack supper” last Sunday afternoon was a tremendous success. We had the largest attendance ever at one of these events. My personal thanks to Dan and Eugenia for their advance preparation of the watermelon and table arrangements. We had five visitors who remained to be our guests and one of these was present again on last Wednesday evening. The fellowship was out of this world. Thanks to all who helped clean up afterward. It was certainly worth the effort. ————-
We learned that Vera Solis had knee surgery last Friday and we are glad that she is able to be with us in worship today. Keep her in your prayers. Elsewhere in our bulletin you will find the address of Mamie Maarschalk’s niece. Some of you have been wanting to send her a sympathy card. Now’s your chance.
=========================================================
The Snake Pit

When General H. Norman Schwarzkopf returned from VietNam, his back was severly damaged from numerous parachute jumps. Spinal surgery was all that could save him from paralysis. The surgery was successful, but the recovery was slow and painful. Schwarzkopf became depressed and contemplated retiring. Tom Bratton, an amputee in his ward, shook him out of his depression. He asked, “Sir, if I can walk on one leg, how come you can’t walk on two?”

In his book, It Doesn’t Take a Hero, Schwarzkopf relates how Bratton’s question affected him:

I was embarrassed because I was eventually going to have a normal life, while Bratton never would. He and his pals went in and out of my ward every day, joking, playing cards, and generally terrorizing the orderlies. I began to understand how (our ward), the Snake Pit, worked. Newcomers just back from VietNam were often bitter and consumed with self-pity. If a man didn’t snap out of it, the doctors would assign him a bed down in the Snake Pit. Like Bratton, most of the guys had been there for months or years and were fighting to overcome terrible injuries. So they were merciless when the newcomer would start moaning. They’d yell, “You wimp! Shut up! What are you moaning about? There’s a lot of guys here who are hurt worse than you. We don’t want to hear it.” They’d often reduce a man to tears. But after that, he’d grind his teeth and fight back, which was precisely what they wanted. The guys in the Snake Pit were relentless, but they brought people back to life.

In reading this story, I thought of how that we as Christians must sometimes push one another. In Hebrews, we read. “And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching” (Hebrews 10:24-25). As you know, it is easy for children of God to become discouraged and to drop out of service to the Lord. As Christians, we must provoke and exhort them to stay in the race. – Wade Webster ————-
=================================================== PRAYER LIST
Jennie Wright has pneumonia and was dismissed from the hospital Thursday evening. She would like all the prayers to continue.

Jimmy Mooney remains at home during his illness at this time.

Rick Ramsey will also have tests this month.

Muriel McMillion is waiting on the results of the heart tests that she took this past week.

Fran Womelsdorff did not get her report on her hearing test. The appointment was postponed till September.

Also pray fervently for the Tyson family.

Continue to remember: Sylvia McMillion; Mary Ruth Percival; R. C. Bell; Jim Birkhead; Lois Rodriquez; Jimmy Mooney’s mother, Dorothy.

REMEMBER ALL OTHERS ON THE PRAYER LIST
Donna Denise Allen; George Bailey; Addie Bennett; Dr. “J” Coats; Perry Cotham; Urbanelle Cox; Carol & Peter Diamond; Tom Duvall; Ruby Faas; Rita Harrison; Doris Henry; Bill Hinton; Bob and Madeline Hinton; Ed Horn; Mary Catherine Jayroe; Oleta Landin; Nancy Lindley; Pat Mitchell; Billie Morgan; Bobby Muirhead (sister of Billie & Jean Thompson); Lula Murray; Vernon Percival; Henrietta Pummill; Mildred Sala; Dan Sherbit; Nancy Spurgeon; Treva Traylor; Marie Works.

Vital Signs: August 15, 2010

Bible Study 57 Offering: $3,005.00 Morning Worship: 75 Budget: $2,893.27 Afternoon Worship: 51 Wed. Eve. Bible Study, 8/11 – 34 ———–

The following is from a niece of Mamie Maarschalk. Paulette Archemire called and spoke with Ann Schoolfield regarding Mamie. Paulette said the family has begun cleaning out her home and are giving most things to charity. Paulette would very much like to hear from us and her address is as follows:

Paulette Archemire 350 Windsor Avenue, Apt. #32 Terrell, TX 75160 .

….

“Looking Forward” by Jack Armstrong I was just sitting here at my desk looking through some things in my bill paying rack and it dawned on me over half the envelopes were for charities and Vet organizations such as “Vets First”, “Feed the Children”, “March of Dimes”, “American Lung Association”, “Veterans of Foreign Wars”, “Help Hospitalized Vets”, “The Senior Citizens League”, “St. Jude”, “Easter Seals”, and “Kids Wish Network” . It is not much for each, but it adds up pretty good for all of them. Once you start you are on their list forever.

Well it’s been Friday the 13th all day and so far things have gone pretty normal.

If some of you are wondering why Oleta and I aren’t there for Bible Study on Wednesday nights, I want to tell you that with my old eys in the shape they are in (Degenerative Macular in both), I just don’t seem to do well in the evening, and the lights blind Oleta, so we just stay home. Bro. Wes did a beautiful job of presiding over our dear Mamie’s funeral on August 10th. He seems to get a little stronger each time, but we all know it is bound to take a lot out of him because he is still very weak. Bro. Jacob did a great job of leading the singing, as usual. What great talent and a great sense of feeling they have for their work. I’m taking over for Mamie in sending out The Visitor to those who had to miss out on the service, so until I get everything straight, please forgive me if I miss you at first. With Alma Faye’s help on the mailing list maybe we can get it right and get the Visitor to you.

Oleta and I attended the funeral service for our dear friend, Jean LaPine at 2:00 p.m. the same day of Mamie’s service, and it was also a beautiful service. The folks had a luncheon for the members and Jean’s close friends, and Oleta and I were asked to be there. The food was delicious and the fellowship was great also! Isn’t it wonderful to be a part of such a loving and wonderful group as we have in the Lord’s church.

Well folks, I’m going to cut off a little short and I want you to know I’ve really enjoyed all these years I’ve been attempting to write this little column, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of your great comments and words of encouragement all along, and for all the great pieces you’ve given me to put in the column. Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful)

Here and There – by Wes Price
For those of you who have been blessed by the thoughtfulness of a dear Christian lady by receiving the church bulletin each week, be eternally blessed. That dear lady departed for her eternal home last week. We had the privilege of doing the memorial service for Mamie Maarschalk on last Tuesday morning. As you know, she lived alone but was very independent. When she did not respond to her neighbor’s calls, the neighbor called one of her nieces who called the police to help gain entry to her home. There she was, asleep in her bed, as she had often said, let me go to be with the Lord peacefully. Our hearts grieve for her passing, but we rejoice for the steadfast faith she manifested in her life to the Lord and to His church.

My personal thanks to all the church family who came to share in the service at Laurel Land Funeral Home. A special word of thanks to Betty and Tom Conyers and Louise Gerner for having a delicious meal prepared for the family here in our Fellowship Hall. Mamie’s family were very pleased with all that was done on their behalf in this time of sadness and loss.

————–
TONIGHT! DON’T FORGET! Come prepared at the evening service to stay for our “Sack Supper,” in the Fellowship Hall. Bring a couple of sandwiches or whatever you might like to eat. We will provide the watermelons and the soft drinks for the occasion. It might even be a time when you could invite a friend to come with you. At any rate: BE THERE!

————–
It probably goes without saying to caution our senior citizens about this extremely hot weather. Be very careful about getting out in it. And too, make sure your home air conditioner is functioning properly. If you need a fan to help circulate the air in your home, let the church office know and we will see that you have one. Please don’t take any unnecessary risks with your health and the heat.

—————

I’m still amazed at the number of calls I receive each week concerning my health. And I’m grateful. Please continue to keep me in your prayers and remember all of our other members who are suffering ill health at this time. ==================================================

Do You Hear the Basics?
“I fear that some are drifting away from the old landmarks that so clearly characterized the…earlier days. Some of the old themes that used to be handled with telling effect by the pioneers are now seldom preached from some pulpits. It is, however, a noticeable fact that when first principles are shunned, evangelistic results are correspond-ingly meager. The men who are eminently successful in bringing souls to Christ are the men who preach a full gospel. Its facts, commands, and promises are all declared…Show me the man who eliminates first principles from his preaching, and I will show you…a man who is in doubt as to whether the disciples…have any distinctive message for the world.” – N. B. Hardeman, preface to Tabernacle Sermons, Vol.1, 1922 “For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.” – Acts 20:27

A Straight Line in a Crooked World In a book about historical figures, Jeff O’Leary described Sir Thomas More (1478-1535), an English lawyer, scholar, and statesman as “a straight stick in a crooked world.” I immediately thought of how that this should describe Christians. To the saints at Philippi, Paul wrote, “That ye may be blame- less and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain” (Philippians 2:15; ef. Deuteronomy 32:5). Please note that these saints were living in a crooked and perverse world. Crooked means bent, curved, or twisted. It is from the Greek word skolios. You may have heard of scoliosis, the medical condition which involves an abnormal curvature or misalignment of the spine. The saints at Philippi were living in a morally bent and spiritually twisted world. Their world was filled with darkness and soot. In the midst of this world, they were to shine as lights and to be without spot (Matthew 5:14-16; James 1:27). Peter wrote, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priest-hood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). Please note that these saints had been called out of darkness. They were supposed to be pecuiliar or different. They were supposed to be holy. Obviously, our world is much like that described by Paul and Peter. It is crooked and perverse and dark. As Christians, we must not bend to it. We must stand strong (Ephesians 6:10-17). We must be a straight line in a crooked world. – Wade Webster. —————

PRAYER LIST
Charlie Brown’s eye surgery went well. Jack Armstrong is A-Okay after his test showed no problems. Jimmy Mooney does have cancer of the liver.
Rick Ramsey will also have tests this month. Muriel McMillion is having heart problems and will have tests this week. Also pray fervently for the Tyson family.

Continue to remember: Sylvia McMillion; Mary Ruth Percival; R. C. Bell; Jim Birkhead; Lois Rodriquez; Jimmy Mooney’s mother, Dorothy.

REMEMBER ALL OTHERS ON THE PRAYER LIST
Donna Denise Allen; George Bailey; Addie Bennett; Dr. “J” Coats; Perry Cotham; Urbanelle Cox; Carol & Peter Diamond; Tom Duvall; Ruby Faas; Rita Harrison; Doris Henry; Bill Hinton; Bob and Madeline Hinton; Ed Horn; Mary Catherine Jayroe; Nancy Lindley; Pat Mitchell; Billie Morgan; Bobby Muirhead (sister of Billie & Jean Thompson); Lula Murray; Vernon Percival; Henrietta Pummill; Mildred Sala; Dan Sherbit; Nancy Spurgeon; Treva Traylor; Marie Works.

Vital Signs: August 8, 2010 Bible Study 58 Offering: $2,382.00 Morning Worship: 86 Budget: $2,893.27 Afternoon Worship: 49 Wed. Eve. Bible Study, 8/4 – 30 ———– SYMPATHY

We want to offer our much love and sympathy to the family and friends of Mamie Maarschalk. Mamie passed away Friday, August 6, 2010. Her funeral was Tuesday, August 9 at Laurel Land Funeral Home officiated by Wes Price. She was a wonderful Christian lady that will be missed so much.

We want to offer our much love and sympathy to Jimmy Morris and family. Jimmy’s sister, Geneva Wyatt of San Antonio, passed away Tuesday evening. Funeral arrangements are pending.

———– .

“Looking Forward” by Jack Armstrong

I’m looking forward to hearing some good news when I go in Friday, August 6th, for a CAT SCAN, but if it turn’s out not to be good news, we’ll handle that too! As Wes has pointed out many times in the past we should go into everything we do with the thought in our minds…”Let your will be done Oh, Lord.” The very two best examples I know for this are Wes Pice and Rick Ramsey. If we could all learn to turn it over to the Lord. But not just those two have that frame of mind. Ruth Manning called yesterday to see how things are going, and to wish me well. We talked about that very thing, as have many of you here at the JBCoC.

We had a large crowd to go over to El Fenix on Sunday. Roger and Linda, Wes and Alma Faye went too, and made it a great get together! We’ve said before and I’ll say again, how great it is to have a wonderful church family to be with and to do things together and to fall back on when things get a little down.

We were so happy Cloyce and Kay Jurecka were able to be there when Wes was able to stand up there at the podium and make his wonderful offer of thanks to all and to recognize those who had been such a help in helping him get through the terrible ordeal.

Every one be sure and look at the “Southwest Now” magazine for the month of September because Oleta and I are going to be there with a story about our get together (fifteen years ago) and some things that have taken place since. I didn’t know when I married Oleta she was such a celebrity!

Since I’m not quite up to par I’m going to cut this one a little short. I just want all to know how much I’ve enjoyed writing these little columns, and visiting with you all these years.

We’ll see you next time the Good Lord Willing. We pray all our sick and shut-ins are doing much better.

Thanks to all of you wonderful folks for your prayers, words of encouragement, calls and cards during my recent health scare. Ya’ll all are the greatest! Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful) =============================================== REMEMBER THE SACK SUPPER – THIS EVENING, 8/15/2010 AFTER THE 5:00 P.M. SERVICE – PLEASE COME !!!

Here and There by Wes Price
For those of you who have been blessed by the thoughtful-ness of a dear Christian lady by receiving the church bulletin each week, be eternally blessed. That dear lady departed for her eternal home last week. We had the privilege of doing the memorial service for Mamie Maarschalk on last Tuesday morning. As you know, she lived alone but was very independent. When she did not respond to her neighbor’s calls, the neighbor called one of her nieces who called the police to help gain entry to her home. There she was, asleep in her bed, as she had often said, let me go to be with the Lord peacefully. Our hearts grieve for her passing, but we rejoice for the steadfast faith she manifested in her life to the Lord and to His church.

My personal thanks to all the church family who came to share in the service at Laurel Land Funeral Home. A special word of thanks to Betty and Tom Conyers and Louise Gerner for having a delicious meal prepared for the family here in our Fellowship Hall. Mamie’s family were very pleased with all that was done on their behalf in this time of sadness and loss.

————–
TONIGHT! DON’T FORGET! Come prepared at the evening service to stay for our “Sack Supper,” in the Fellowship Hall. Bring a couple of sandwiches or whatever you might like to eat. We will provide the watermelons and the soft drinks for the occasion. It might even be a time when you could invite a friend to come with you. At any rate: BE THERE!

————–
It probably goes without saying to caution our senior citizens about this extremely hot weather. Be very careful about getting out in it. And too, make sure your home air conditioner is functioning properly. If you need a fan to help circulate the air in your home, let the church office know and we will see that you have one. Please don’t take any unnecessary risks with your health and the heat.

—————

I’m still amazed at the number of calls I receive each week concerning my health. And I’m grateful. Please continue to keep me in your prayers and remember all of our other members who are suffering ill health at this time. ==================================================

Do You Hear the Basics?
“I fear that some are drifting away from the old landmarks that so clearly characterized the…earlier days. Some of the old themes that used to be handled with telling effect by the pioneers are now seldom preached from some pulpits. It is, however, a noticeable fact that when first principles are shunned, evangelistic results are correspond-ingly meager. The men who are eminently successful in bringing souls to Christ are the men who preach a full gospel. Its facts, commands, and promises are all declared

…Show me the man who eliminates first principles from his preaching, and I will show you…a man who is in doubt as to whether the disciples…have any distinctive message for the world.” – N. B. Hardeman, preface to Tabernacle Sermons, Vol.1, 1922

“For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.” – Acts 20:27

A Straight Line in a Crooked World In a book about historical figures, Jeff O’Leary described Sir Thomas More (1478-1535), an English lawyer, scholar, and statesman as “a straight stick in a crooked world.” I immediately thought of how that this should describe Christians.

To the saints at Philippi, Paul wrote, “That ye may be blame- less and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither laboured in vain” (Philippians 2:15; ef. Deuteronomy 32:5). Please note that these saints were living in a crooked and perverse world. Crooked means bent, curved, or twisted. It is from the Greek word skolios. You may have heard of scoliosis, the medical condition which involves an abnormal curvature or misalignment of the spine. The saints at Philippi were living in a morally bent and spiritually twisted world. Their world was filled with darkness and soot. In the midst of this world, they were to shine as lights and to be without spot (Matthew 5:14-16; James 1:27).

Peter wrote, “But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priest-hood, a holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9). Please note that these saints had been called out of darkness. They were supposed to be pecuiliar or different. They were supposed to be holy.

Obviously, our world is much like that described by Paul and Peter. It is crooked and perverse and dark. As Christians, we must not bend to it. We must stand strong (Ephesians 6:10-17). We must be a straight line in a crooked world. – Wade Webster.

—————

PRAYER LIST
Charlie Brown’s eye surgery went well. Jack Armstrong is A-Okay after his test showed no problems. Jimmy Mooney does have cancer of the liver.
Rick Ramsey will also have tests this month. Muriel McMillion is having heart problems and will have tests this week. Also pray fervently for the Tyson family.

Continue to remember:

Sylvia McMillion; Mary Ruth Percival; R. C. Bell; Jim Birkhead; Lois Rodriquez; Jimmy Mooney’s mother, Dorothy.

REMEMBER ALL OTHERS ON THE PRAYER LIST
Donna Denise Allen; George Bailey; Addie Bennett; Dr. “J” Coats; Perry Cotham; Urbanelle Cox; Carol & Peter Diamond; Tom Duvall; Ruby Faas; Rita Harrison; Doris Henry; Bill Hinton; Bob and Madeline Hinton; Ed Horn; Mary Catherine Jayroe; Nancy Lindley; Pat Mitchell; Billie Morgan; Bobby Muirhead (sister of Billie & Jean Thompson); Lula Murray; Vernon Percival; Henrietta Pummill; Mildred Sala; Dan Sherbit; Nancy Spurgeon; Treva Traylor; Marie Works.

Vital Signs: August 8, 2010

Bible Study 58 Offering: $2,382.00

Morning Worship: 86 Budget: $2,893.27

Afternoon Worship: 49 Wed. Eve. Bible Study, 8/4 -30 ———–

SYMPATHY

We want to offer our much love and sympathy to the family and friends of Mamie Maarschalk. Mamie passed away Friday, August 6, 2010. Her funeral was Tuesday, August 9 at Laurel Land Funeral Home officiated by Wes Price. She was a wonderful Christian lady that will be missed so much.

We want to offer our much love and sympathy to Jimmy Morris and family. Jimmy’s sister, Geneva Wyatt of San Antonio, passed away Tuesday evening. Funeral arrangements are pending.

———– . “Looking Forward” by Jack Armstrong

I’m looking forward to hearing some good news when I go in Friday, August 6th, for a CAT SCAN, but if it turn’s out not to be good news, we’ll handle that too! As Wes has pointed out many times in the past we should go into everything we do with the thought in our minds…”Let your will be done Oh, Lord.” The very two best examples I know for this are Wes Pice and Rick Ramsey. If we could all learn to turn it over to the Lord. But not just those two have that frame of mind. Ruth Manning called yesterday to see how things are going, and to wish me well. We talked about that very thing, as have many of you here at the JBCoC.

We had a large crowd to go over to El Fenix on Sunday. Roger and Linda, Wes and Alma Faye went too, and made it a great get together! We’ve said before and I’ll say again, how great it is to have a wonderful church family to be with and to do things together and to fall back on when things get a little down.

We were so happy Cloyce and Kay Jurecka were able to be there when Wes was able to stand up there at the podium and make his wonderful offer of thanks to all and to recognize those who had been such a help in helping him get through the terrible ordeal.

Every one be sure and look at the “Southwest Now” magazine for the month of September because Oleta and I are going to be there with a story about our get together (fifteen years ago) and some things that have taken place since. I didn’t know when I married Oleta she was such a celebrity! Since I’m not quite up to par I’m going to cut this one a little short. I just want all to know how much I’ve enjoyed writing these little columns, and visiting with you all these years.

We’ll see you next time the Good Lord Willing. We pray all our sick and shut-ins are doing much better.

Thanks to all of you wonderful folks for your prayers, words of encouragement, calls and cards during my recent health scare. Ya’ll all are the greatest! Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful) =============================================== REMEMBER THE SACK SUPPER – THIS EVENING, 8/15/2010 AFTER THE 5:00 P.M. SERVICE – PLEASE COME !!!

Here and There by Wes Price
If you were not able to be present for last Sunday morning’s sermon by Roger Owen, then let me urge you to call the church office and request a copy of that tape. Every member of this church family needed to hear this message and we are thankful to Roger for it. If you value your soul’s existence for the here and now, not to mention the hereafter, then you will be benefited by this excellent sermon.
And while I’m on the subject, let me express my appreciation to Roger and his wife Linda for there being with us each week and for the good messages Roger is bringing us. He will continue to be with us as long as it takes me to regain my strength and able to return to the pulpit on a regular basis. I’m going to be preaching on occasion, just to test myself to see if my strength is returning. Many of you have encouraged me not to rush into this matter and I assure you that I’m listening. As much as I want to be back doing everything I was doing before my illness, I know that it will not be to my advantage to rush into it too quickly. Continue to keep me in your prayers.
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Jimmy Mooney began his chemotherapy this past week and we won’t want to forget to keep him in our prayers. There will be sometimes when he is unable to be with us because of the treatments, but knowing Jimmy, I’m sure he’ll be here when he feels like it and probably sometimes when he doesn’t. At any rate, let’s not forget him. He has a long road ahead of him with this therapy and as you know, the side effects are often quite unpredictable.
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Sherrie Reynolds ask us to express her appreciation for all the cards, calls and other remembrances in the death of her mother, Evelyn Dillon. She sends her apology for not having responded to all these expressions but will be doing so as soon as she can. Keep her in your prayers as well.
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My dear friend and fellow gospel preacher George Bailey had quaduple by-pass heart surgery while I was in the hospital. He is still in need of our prayers for recovery. He is in the Christian Care Center Rehabilitation Center. I spoke with his wife, Ela Beth this past week and she told me that he is doing as well as can be expected especially following the implanting of a pace maker. As you know, the wife of a seriously ill patient needs to be in our prayers as well, so please do so.
————— If you are a resident of Kessler Plaza in Oak Cliff, you might be interested in a meeting scheduled to be conducted on this coming Tuesday evening at 7:00 p.m. in Hitt Auditorium at Methodist Central.
Under consideration are proposed zoning ordinances with amendments to Conservation Districts 1 and 7 and Historic District 15, Kings Highway, Bishop Arts and Winnetka Heights. I understand that a question and answer session with City Staff will follow the meeting. You will be ahead of the curve if you are informed about possible changes that may impact your property.
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A Special Note of Thanks to our Church Family

To all of you who have been such an important part of our lives these past months, “Thank You!” There are no words adequate to convey the depth of our appreciation for the prayers, cards and calls of concern, and the many hospital visits you made during our dark hours of illness, surgeries, and recovery. May God bless you all as Wes continues the process of improving his health and gaining more strength. In Christian Love, Alma Faye ================================================== LESSONS FROM LAS VEGAS David Brassfield, preacher for the church in Newalla, Ok, recently wrote about lessons he had learned from Las Vegas. He did not visit their casinos to gamble but to observe.
He was struck by the fact that they have no clocks in their casinos. They do not want their patrons to be concerned about how long they have been there. They want them to think about winning. In our case, many churches have clocks prominently displayed. Maybe we want them to think about leaving instead of stayng!

A second thing that impressed David was the numerous slot machines. He learned that they have one slot machine for every ten persons in Las Vegas. There was also a great variety. They had slots for pennies, nickels, dimes, quarters, dollars, two dollars and five dollars. They are saying to customers, “This is easy. This is convenient. We want you here. We want your business.”

While the church of the Lord must never compromise truth but maintain pure and scriptural worship, there are some things that are matters of judgment. Church buildings need to be accessible. They need to be properly lighted. Sound systems need to be very good and properly adjusted and always working. Heating and cooling are important. Singing needs to be good, songs in which everyone can participate. Prayers need to be thougtful, expressing our real petitions to God and also thanksgiving. The communion service needs to be reverent and meaningful. Greeting both members and visitors before and following services is very important. In fact, our whole service should say to people, “You are loved and appreciated and want you here.”
Lewis G. Hale

PRAYER LIST
Wes Price is getting stronger. He does rehab three times a week, and at times is able to be back working in the church office during the week.
Ann Schoolfield has more eye tests this week.
Oleta Landin is slowly recovering from eye surgery. She may be with us this morning.
Jimmy Mooney has begun his chemotherapy.
Jim Birkhead, Elaine Birkhead’s husband, is home and improving.

Continue to remember:

Mary Ruth Percival; Rick Ramsey; R. C. Bell; Lois Rodriquez;
Jimmy Mooney’s mother, Dorothy; the Tyson Family.

REMEMBER ALL OTHERS ON THE PRAYER LIST
Donna Denise Allen; George Bailey; Addie Bennett; Dr. “J” Coats; Perry Cotham; Urbanelle Cox; Carol & Peter Diamond; Tom Duvall; Ruby Faas; Rita Harrison; Doris Henry; Bill Hinton; Bob and Madeline Hinton; Ed Horn; Mary Catherine Jayroe; Jean LaPine; Nancy Lindley; Muriel McMillion; Pat & Jimmie Mitchell; Billie Morgan; Bobby Muirhead (sister of Billie & Jean Thompson); Lula Murray; Vernon Percival; Henrietta Pummill; Mildred Sala; Nancy Spurgeon; Treva Traylor; Marie Works.

Vital Signs: July 25, 2010

Bible Study 60 Offering: $2,729.63 Morning Worship: 76 Budget: $2,893.27 Afternoon Worship: 40 Wed. Eve. Bible Study, 7/21 – 30 ————-

Change of Address: Perry Cotham 1814 Santa Cruz Circle Grand Prairie, TX 75051 ———— “Looking Forward”

by Jack Armstrong We said goodbye to another sweet friend on 7/21/2010. Our dear Evelyn Dillon went to her reward on 7/17/2010. Bro. Wes held her graveside service at Laurel Land and did a beautiful job of saying farewell and paying tribute to her exemplary life which was an example for all around her.

There was a really good gathering at Jeter’s Funeral Home for the viewing before the service and also at the grave site. I can’t say enough to praise Dennis Jeter and his son on the wonderful way they take care of every detail when handling a funeral service. They show a real personal feeling when dealing with the family and all concerned. To my way of thinking they are #1

It was mine and Oleta’s pleasure to take Wes, Alma Faye, and Rick out to lunch afterward since it was Rick’s birthday and we had missed Wes on 7/1/2010.

Folks if you haven’t had time to read Roger’s column from last week you should get the Bulletin and read “Influential People”. It’s one of the best he’s written.

It was really good to see Bro. R. C. Bell back on 7/8/10; it’s just not the same without him. We sure hope and pray you continue to get better R.C.!

Oleta and I got a shock a couple of weeks ago when the Editor of Southwest Now magazine called and wanted to know if it was okay for them to do a story about us. Her name is Beverly Shay and she told us that Jennifer Johnson, a close friend of ours, told her about our lives and thought it would make a good human interest story. Jennifer has worked at several doctor’s offices where we go but we first became friends over at Kitchens Deli in the Ben Franklin store in Duncanville where her mother-in-law, Pat, worked. They used to kid us, and called us the “Love Couple” because we’ve always been very close. To make a long story short, Beverly is sending a photographer out next Tuesday to take some pictures and we were interviewed by a young writer named Katrina McNair. The story is supposed to be out in August or September. I didn’t know when I married Oleta that she would be such a celebrity!

It sure will be good to have Carmen Rich back with us. Her new address was in the July 25th Bulletin or call the church office.

It was good visiting with you again. We will see you next time the Good Lord willing. Remember.. ”It’s never too late to be what you might have been”. Semper Fidelis (Always Faithful)