JOURNAL OF THE BAPTIST MISSIONARY ASSOCIATION OF MISSISSIPPI

April 15, 2015 VOL. 69 NO. 8www.bmaofmississippi.com

“We’re All In This Together”

Annual Meeting Time Nearby Jason Aultman, president

Baptist Missionary Association of AmericaThe time is quickly approaching for the national meeting of the BMA of America.

I hope you are planning to attend. The meeting will take place April 20 – 22 at theUniversity Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield,Missouri. We will convene with a time of worship at 7:00that Monday evening.

This year’s theme is “We’re All In This Together.” Whatany of us can do individually might seem small, but whatGod can use us to accomplish collectively can have animpact beyond our imagination. Our time in Springfieldwill provide a wonderful opportunity to hear about what theLord has been doing in the work of our association and tolook forward and dream of what He might have in store aswe continue to follow and serve Him together.

In addition to our times of worship and conducting ofbusiness, we also look forward to opportunities to hear fromseveral folks that will be offering elective training sessions.It is our hope that these times will encourage, sharpen andprepare us to serve with even greater effectiveness when we return home.

It is my understanding that the headquarter hotel has sold out of rooms, butadditional rooms are available at the Holiday Inn on Glenstone. You can reach themat 417-865-8600. There is a special rate of $99 if you tell them you are with the BMA.

I am praying for and anticipating a great time together. Hope to see you there!

Dr. Jason Aultman

Special Elective Sessions Setfor Annual BMA Meeting

In addition to the regularly scheduledtimes of worship and conducting of busi-ness, this year’s National AssociationMeeting will offer special opportunitiesfor equipping and training. According toBMA President, Dr. Jason Aultman, sixelective sessions will be presented. Theschedule will allow attendees the chanceto select up to three electives to attend. “Iam excited about the opportunity wehave to hear from these trainers,” Dr.Aultman said. “They offer unique in-sight and expertise in the topics they willdiscuss. I believe these electives aregoing to provide a wonderful opportunityto grow, learn, and be sharpened andbetter prepared for effective ministryand leadership. It’s my hope that thesewill prove to not only be enjoyable andencouraging to those attending, but ulti-mately will serve to strengthen and blesschurches and ministries across the BMA!”

Elective sessions to be offered include:

“Creative Expository Preaching:“Creative Expository Preaching:“Creative Expository Preaching:“Creative Expository Preaching:“Creative Expository Preaching:Practical Help In Sermon Prepara-Practical Help In Sermon Prepara-Practical Help In Sermon Prepara-Practical Help In Sermon Prepara-Practical Help In Sermon Prepara-tion And Delivery”tion And Delivery”tion And Delivery”tion And Delivery”tion And Delivery”Presenter: Dr. David Allen

Dr. Allen is the Dean of the School ofTheology at Southwestern Baptist Semi-nary in Ft. Worth, Texas. He also servesas the Director of the Southwestern Cen-ter for Expository Preaching, is a Profes-sor of Preaching, and occupies theseminary’s George W. Truett Chair ofMinistry. Just as the title indicates, thissession will provide practical tools thatpreachers and teachers can use in prepa-ration and presentation. Some “what’s,why’s and how’s” of expository preachingwill be presented.

“The Future Of America As We“The Future Of America As We“The Future Of America As We“The Future Of America As We“The Future Of America As WeNear The End Of The Age And WhatNear The End Of The Age And WhatNear The End Of The Age And WhatNear The End Of The Age And WhatNear The End Of The Age And WhatBelievers Should Do”Believers Should Do”Believers Should Do”Believers Should Do”Believers Should Do”Presenter: Bro. Jeff Swart

Bro. Jeff is the Pastor at First BaptistChurch in Galena, Kansas. He alsocurrently serves as 2nd Vice President ofthe BMA of America. He is a student of

biblical prophecy and is highly regardedas a teacher on the subject. This sessionwill look into what the future holds forour country and what believers should bedoing in light of our soon coming King.

“Leading Change”“Leading Change”“Leading Change”“Leading Change”“Leading Change”Presenter: Bro. Andy Comer

Bro. Andy is the Pastor at Davis StreetBaptist Church in Sulphur Springs,Texas. Bro. Andy served on staff atDavis Street and accepted the pastoratefollowing the retirement of Bro. TommyHall. He has learned some “do’s and donot’s” of leading change in an establishedchurch. In this session participants willdiscover how to lead a church throughpurposeful change as well as practicalsteps to effectively bring about change.

“What Can An Entrepreneur Teach“What Can An Entrepreneur Teach“What Can An Entrepreneur Teach“What Can An Entrepreneur Teach“What Can An Entrepreneur TeachMe About Ministry?”Me About Ministry?”Me About Ministry?”Me About Ministry?”Me About Ministry?”Presenter: Dr. Eddie Glover

Dr. Glover is a pharmacist and CEO ofU.S. Compounding in Conway, Arkan-sas. He was named the National Phar-macist of the Year in 2012 by the Na-tional Community Pharmacists Asso-ciation. U.S. Compounding has experi-enced exponential growth in recent years,transitioning from from a local companyof 4 employees to a national organization.In this session, 10 practical principleswill be presented that any leader canimplement for greater effectiveness inany field.

“Great Expectations: Taking Your“Great Expectations: Taking Your“Great Expectations: Taking Your“Great Expectations: Taking Your“Great Expectations: Taking YourSunday School To The Next Level”Sunday School To The Next Level”Sunday School To The Next Level”Sunday School To The Next Level”Sunday School To The Next Level”Presenter: Bro. Ken Lupton

Bro. Ken is a Church Partner withLifeway Church Resources. He workswith hundreds of churches every year,partnering with them to provide strate-gies and solutions to develop healthy,growing Sunday Schools and churches.Through his ministry with Lifeway Bro.Ken works alongside churches in Mis-

continued on page 3

“We Believe” Series Focuses on the Church this SummerFor over thirty-eight years, Dr. E. Harold Henderson

wrote BMA adult Sunday school literature. His writingshelped shape the theological foundation of ourassociation. Interestingly, Dr. Henderson surrendered tothe ministry on the day the Japanese bombed PearlHarbor when he was fourteen years old. Throughout hislife, he pastored seven churches in Texas and Oklahoma.At one time, he was chairman of the Bible Department atJacksonville College.

Dr. Henderson served on numerous committees andtrustee bodies in BMA associations from the local to thenational level. He was past president of both the BMA ofTexas and the BMA of America and ministered person-ally in more than thirty countries worldwide. In 1996, Dr.Henderson passed away; however, his impact has contin-ued through the “We Believe” series of the CompassSunday school quarterly.

This four-quarter series has featured Dr. Henderson’swritings regarding what we believe about doctrine, God,and Jesus. Each lesson in the series has been publishedto help congregations affirm and review our basic beliefs as BMA Baptists. The “WeBelieve” series will conclude this summer with a study of what we believe about the church.

If you have adult Sunday school classes who are not currently using the Compassquarterly, ask them to consider this important summer study on the church.

For more information, or to order, call DiscipleGuide at 1-800-333-1442 or go todiscipleguide.org.

2 April 15, 2015 • Mississippi Baptist

BMA of Mississippi Revolving Loan Fund Report(As of April 10, 2015 and since August 1, 2014)

Gross Assets .................................................... $19,611,638.00New Loans ........................................................................... 7Total of Loans Made .............................................. $763,611.00Loan Rate .....................................................................4.25%Shareholder Rate of Return.............................................2.67%Reserve .......................................................................... 20%

Baptist Missionary Associationof Mississippi

Department of Missions and Revolving Loan FundState Missionaries and Wives

601.428.8616 www.bmams.org

Larry GeraldsonDirector

Bob & Edie Burch Kenneth & CarolePollock

Bobby & LesaElliott

Sidney & BeckyFarmer

Wesley & HolleyMartin

Phillip & DawnBurns

Estuardo &Yasmine Marroquin

Elvis & WendyGarcia

Ed & PatriciaDuVall

Danny & BrendaBartlett

Reports for March 2015High Membership TotalAttendance Offerings

Church PlantersBob Burch 71 33 $4,540.00Bobby Elliott 56 47 $2,330.00Sidney Farmer 55 30 $5,909.00Danny Bartlett 14 10 $2,597.00Phillip Burns 21 9 $1,807.00Wesley Martin 117 17 $5,858.00

Hispanic Missions – South(Estuardo Marroquin – Coordinator)Hattiesburg 30 12 $2,040.00Biloxi 8 2 n/aLaurel 129 107 $6,268.00

Hispanic Missions – North(Elvis Garcia – Coordinator)Tupelo 22 17 $1,069.00Oxford 35 5 $1,224.00Ripley 93 77 $5,583.00

African American Missions–(Ed DuVall – Coordinator)Olive Branch 19 13 $1,875.00Cleveland 18 50 $2,906.00Collectively, our missionaries reported 318 new contacts, shared thegospel 197 times, and had 15 professions of faiths 1 baptisms and3 join by letter.

Missions & Evangelism ConferenceMay 1, 2015

Sponsored by: The Department of Missions (BMA of Mississippi)Hosted by: Hillcrest Baptist Church, Yazoo City

Theme: “Follow Me”

10:00am - Music - Jeff & Rosalind Dixon10:10am "The Savior's Sermon"

(Introduction of the Theme) Matt 5:13-16 - Larry Geraldson10:30am - Music - Jeff & Rosalind Dixon10:35am - "A Savior's Solicitation" (Evangelism)

Matt 4:17-22 - Ben Dixon10:55 - Break11:00 - Music - Jeff & Rosalind Dixon11:05 - "The Savior's Sayings" (Discipleship)

Matt 5:1-12 - Dwight Sibley11:40am - 1:00pm - Lunch & Missionary Reports1:00pm - Music - Steve Bennett1:10pm - “The Savior's Standard" Matt 5:17-20 (Righteousness)

Jarrod Cox1:40pm - Music - Steve Bennett1:45pm - “The Savior's Strength" (Prayer) Matt 6:5-15

Dr. Kevin Clayton2:15pm - 2:30pm - Break & Fellowship2:30pm - Music - Steve Bennett2:40pm - "The Savior's Strategy" (Faith) Matt 7:7-12

Bro. Holden Stegall3:00pm - "The Savior's Solution" (The Gospel) Matt 7:13-14

Dr. John David Smith3:30pm - 3:45pm - Break & Fellowship3:45pm - Music - Big Creek Trio4:00pm - "The Savior's Signature

(False Prophets and Judgment) Matt 7:15-23 – Dr. Charley Holmes4:30 - Music - Justin Cameron4:35pm - "The Savior's Song" (Blessing) Matt 7:24-29

Bro. Greg Medenwald5:00pm – Dismiss

Mission & Evangelism TransportationWe have coordinated with different churches in some of our Local

Associations to provide church van/bus transportation to the confer-ence. Here is the list:

Gulf Association - North Gauthier, Bro. Johnny Williams

Ten Mile Association - Paramount & Campground, Bro. Dennis Knightand Bro. Bryan Atwood

Washington Baptist Association - Midway, Bro. Justin Cameron

Big Creek Association - Big Creek Baptist Church, Bro. Justin Rhodes

Oak Grove Association - First Midway Baptist Church, Bro. BlakeMcClain

Tombigbee Association - East Fulton, Bro. Gary SmithOur hope is that people will carpool and enjoy the fellowship to andfrom the meeting.

See Missions& EvangelisticConference Ad

on Page 6

Former BMAPastor Passes Away

Bro. Eugene Lee Digby, 89,passed away Tuesday, March31, 2015, at the Meadows. Hewas born August 7, 1925, inItawamba County to Walter Leeand Lucille Chamblee Digby.He was a Baptist minister for 64years holding many funerals,weddings, and revivals. He wasfounder and minister of Christfor the Crisis radio and TV min-istry for 58 years.

Services were Friday, April3, at the First Baptist Church inFulton with Bro. Casey Hughes,Bro. Kenny Digby, and DannyDigby officiating.

Survivors include two sons,Danny Digby (Kathy) of Fultonand Kenny Digby (Becky) ofCorinth; four grandsons, JasonDigby (Susanne), Stan Digby(Stephanie), Bailey Digby, andKaleb Digby; and two great-grandchildren, Jordan and ChloeDigby.

He was preceded in death byhis wife, Faye Ellen Digby; onesister, Jane Moore; one grand-son, Austin Digby; and a daugh-ter-in-law, Betty Ann MooreDigby.

Central Baptist College Seeking Director of Annual Fund GivingGeneral Responsibilities: The Director is responsible for the planning, coordinating, and directing the annual

fund of the College including, but not limited to, special fundraising projects. The Director will work under thedirect supervision of the Vice President for Advancement in coordination with the College President to managea comprehensive, strategic, and integrated effort to build CBC’s base of donors and increase the level of supportto annual giving and special projects.

Qualifications: Minimum Bachelor’s Degree and the ability to manage donor relations with a high degree ofprofessionalism, integrity, and confidentiality. The ideal candidate should also have exceptional oral and writtencommunication skills with demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects/deadlines and possess a service-oriented, team player attitude. Fundraising experience preferred. Travel required. Candidate must support theChristian identity of the College and demonstrate mature faith, Christian lifestyle, and a strong belief in BaptistDoctrine.

Salary: Commensurate with qualifications and experience.Application review will begin immediately and continue until position is filledInterested candidates must send via e-mail a cover letter as an attachment addressed to Central Baptist

College, Attention: Sancy Faulk, Vice President for Advancement, 1501 College Avenue, Conway, AR 72034.The e-mail must also include a brief statement of faith and resume (including references). Electronic submissionsonly. No phone calls please.

3April 15, 2015 • Mississippi Baptist

COMMISSION ONSenior Adults

4226 Highway 15 North, Laurel, Mississippi 39440

Kenneth FlyntDirector

They are everywhere. Everywhere I go I meet peoplewho are elated over the Senior Adult Conference heldin both the Southern part of the state and the Northernpart of the state. The South Mississippi Conferenceheld recently at Big Creek Baptist Church in Soso wasblessed with a full house and blessings all day long.

Now its on to Guntown for the NorthMississippi Conference on May 5th.Registration begins at 9:00 a.m. andthe program will start at 9:30 a.m. Itall adds up to a great time to be togetherand you don’t want to miss it.

Registration fee remains at $15 perperson. You will receive a meal ticketwhen registering and this ticket allowsyou to participate in the door prizes forthe day.

The Dorsey-Friendship Fire Department will caterthe noon meal with fish, chicken and all the trim-mings. This food is fantastic and is second to none.

The music for the morning services will be directedby Bro. Matt Hudson and Bro. Gary Smith will bepreaching for the morning worship hour.

The afternoon service will once again be led by Bro.Bryson Haden and the Gaither Style HomecomingChoir. This choir will be filled with local talent and weare all looking forward to a glory filled, spiritualexperience all day long.

Bro. Eddie Boutwell and Unity Baptist Church willbe hosting this conference and they are anxiouslyawaiting your arrival. It takes a lot of work anddedication to host these conferences and their time andlabor is appreciated.

Now, lets make our way to Guntown and UnityBaptist Church. I know all churches who participatewill go home rejoicing when the day’s activities areover.

Pastors and churches are to encourage one anotherand spend this special time together in a meeting forour senior members.

Call in the number attending from your church, butif you fail to do so, come on anyway. You may call 662-282-4966 or 662-891-5510.

TUESDAY, MAY 5THUNITY BAPTIST CHURCH, GUNTOWN

ATTEND THIS CONFERENCEYOU’LL BE GLAD YOU DID!

Authentic Christian Livingby Jerry Burnaman

Executive Director BMA of Texas State Missions

His name was Justin, and for all practical purposeshe was an atheist. His parents were wealthy, so Justinwas able to afford a prestigious education and pursuehis favorite subject—philosophy. But by age thirty, hehad no inner peace. Every philo-sophical system seemed morebankrupt than the last.

One day while walking on thebeach, he met an older man whosedemeanor seemed happy andpeaceful. The two struck up aconversation, and the older gentle-man began talkingabout Jesus. He explained howChrist had fulfilled Old Testa-ment prophecy and had come as asacrifice for sin. The man urgedJustin to turn to God in prayer.

Justin was not only saved; he went on to become apowerful apologist for the truthfulness of Christianity.His background had prepared him perfectly to con-vince a skeptical world of the reality of Jesus Christ.He wrote books, traveled widely, started a school, andlectured about Jesus with great power. At length hewas arrested for his faith and challenged with thisquestion: “If you are killed, do you suppose you will goto heaven?”

“I do not suppose it,” Justin replied. “I know and amfully persuaded of it.”

His accusers took him at his word, and Justin wasbeheaded along with several of his students in Romeabout A.D. 165. History has given him the nameJustin Martyr.

Interestingly, the New Testament word “martyr” isa term for anyone whose faith was so authentic theywould rather die than abandon it. The word is oftentranslated “witness.” For example, in Acts 1:8, Jesussaid, “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirithas come upon you; and you shall be my witnesses(martyr).

We may or may not be required to die for Christ, butit is essential that we live for Him.

Authenticity is Unselfish LivingAuthenticity is Unselfish LivingAuthenticity is Unselfish LivingAuthenticity is Unselfish LivingAuthenticity is Unselfish LivingAt the moment a person becomes a Christian, pride

and unselfish living are not automatically eliminated.We’re infected with the Adam-Eve disease called sin,and it takesenormous faith and constant yielding to the HolySpirit to conquer selfish living. The only way to learnabout unselfish living is to study the Bible every dayand apply it’s truths to every life situation.

Jesus said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentileslord it over them, and those who are great exerciseauthority over them. Yet it shall not be so among you;but whoever desires to become great among you, lethim be your servant. And whoever desires to be firstamong you, let him be your slave—just as the Son ofMan did not come to be served, but to serve, and to giveHis life a ransom for many” (Matthew 20:25-28). Let’sadmit it, ours is an age of gross selfishness and it ofteninfluences our thinking. We even get uncomfortablewhen God makes demands on us. The sarcasm ofWilbur Rees’ words picture our selfish living:

“I would like to buy $3 worth of God, please, notenough to explode my soul or disturb my sleep, but justenough to equal a cup of warm milk or a snooze in thesunshine. I don’t wantenough of Him to make me love a black man or pickbeets with a migrant. I want ecstasy, not transforma-tion; I want the warmth of the womb; not a new birth.I want a pound of the Eternal in a paper sack. I would

like to buy $3 worth of God, please.” (Wilbur Rees,When I Relax I feel Guilty by TimHansel, p. 49).

We want just enough of God to keep our guilt levelrelegated to almost nothing. However, if we’re going toimpact our world with the Gospel, then forget self, lifelike Christ, and let you light shine in this sin darkenedworld.

Authenticity is Living GenerouslyAuthenticity is Living GenerouslyAuthenticity is Living GenerouslyAuthenticity is Living GenerouslyAuthenticity is Living GenerouslyWhen we forget self, we will generously use our

talents, our time and our resources for the cause ofChrist. Look at these probing words: “Give and it willbe given to you; good measure, pressed down, shakentogether, and running over will be put into yourbosom. For with the same measure that you use, it willbe measured back to you” (Luke 6:38). You’ve heardthe old saying, “You can’t out give God!” Then why dowe hold back and refuse to allow God working in everyarea of life? It’s that old Adam-Eve disease that mustbe dealt with on a daily basis.

Authenticity is Learning ConstantlyAuthenticity is Learning ConstantlyAuthenticity is Learning ConstantlyAuthenticity is Learning ConstantlyAuthenticity is Learning ConstantlyThe servant student begins with a renewed mind

(Romans 12:1-2). Don’t let the world squeeze you intoits mold; let God remold you from the inside to thinklike Christ. Living differently begins with thinkingdifferently. A life that is characterized by servingothers begins in a mind that is convinced of such a life.Then we constantly study the Bible and allow the HolySpirit to give us power to live like Christ. Many peoplehave a twisted picture of Christianity because they’vebeen disillusioned by so-called Christians who don’tlive accordingly. A recent poll by isidewith.com askedthe question, “If Jesus suddenly came back to earthtoday, wouldHe approve or disapprove of modern Christianity?”Those who responded, 87 percent said “disapprove.”

“If we’re going to replicate the power of the ApostolicAge, it requires an unbroken, undaunted, undilutedcommitment to Christ.” (David Jeremiah)

-from Baptist Progress

Jerry Burnaman

A Meaningful Way to Honor Your MotherAre you looking for a more meaningful way to honor

your mother on Mother’s Day this year? Why notmake a contribution to the BMA Foundation in herhonor? Your contribution will never be spent. It will beinvested, and only the earnings from the contributionwill be used to help all or any of the BMA departmentsand agencies as you specify. If your mother is deceased,a contribution to the Foundation in her memory wouldbe most appropriate and meaningful.

Your contribution can help BMA Missions sendmissionaries throughout the world; help LifewordMedia Ministries spread the gospel by radio, televisionand the internet; help DiscipleGuide provide much-needed resources to BMA churches; help BMA Theo-logical Seminary train pastors, teachers and mission-aries; help Ministers Resource Services provide retire-ment services to pastors, church staff members anddenominational employees; and help the Moral ActionAgency articulate our beliefs on very important issuesof our day. In assisting these departments and agen-cies, you will be helping build God’s Kingdom as thedepartments and agencies assist BMA churches incarrying out the Great Commission.

Contributions should be mailed to P.O. Box 1188,Conway, Arkansas 72033, along with contact informa-tion for anyone you would like us to notify regardingyour contribution.

souri, Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Illinois. Partici-pants in this session will be given tools to evaluatetheir Sunday School, and help in knowing how tocreate dynamic classes.

“Growing Your Sunday Attendance With Social“Growing Your Sunday Attendance With Social“Growing Your Sunday Attendance With Social“Growing Your Sunday Attendance With Social“Growing Your Sunday Attendance With SocialMedia”Media”Media”Media”Media”Presenter: Brandon Cox

Bro. Brandon is the Pastor of Grace Hills Church,a church plant in Northwest Arkansas. He also servesas a Strategic Consultant for Social Media withLifeword, and Editor of Pastors.com, one of the largestonline learning resources for pastors and churchleaders. Social media presents a great platform tomeet new people, start conversations, and invite peopleto church without spending a lot of money. Thissession will provide understandable help for those whowould like to learn the basics of using social media(Facebook, Instagram, etc.) to enhance evangelismand community within their church family.

Elective Sessionsfrom page 1

4 April 15, 2015 • Mississippi Baptist

Letters FromOur Readers

Letters reflect the opinion of thewriter and not necessarily this publication or

the BMA of Mississippi

Don J. Brown, EditorE-Mail - editor@msbaptist.orgWeb site www.msbaptist.org

USPS 353-960P.O. Box 8181

Laurel, Mississippi 39441-8000

Phone 601-426-3293

PRICE$20.00 Per Year by Mail

$15.00 Per Year by EmailCHURCH PLAN

$ 1.30 Per Month per Family

Published on the 1st and 15thof each month by the Baptist Mis-sionary Association of Mississippi.Periodical postage paid atHattiesburg, Mississippi 39402.

Postmaster: Send addresschanges to the Mississippi BaptistPaper, P.O. Box 8181, Laurel, MS39441-8000.

Opinion PageJournal of the Baptist Missionary Association of Mississippi

Don Brown - EditorDon Brown

www.msbaptist.org

Baptist MissionaryAssociation of Mississippiwww.bmaofmississippi.com

DEPARTMENTS & COMMISSIONS

Mississippi Baptist PaperP.O. Box 8181, Laurel, MS 39441

601-426-3293

Southeastern Baptist College4229 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440601-426-6346

State Youth Department4226 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440662-397-6832

Baptist Children's Home118 Lowe Rd., Laurel, MS 39443

601-426-3928

Missions & Revolving Loan Fund4226 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440601-428-8616

Commission on Senior Adults4226 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440

History & Archives Commission4229 Highway 15 North

Laurel, MS 39440

Moral ActionP.O. Box 88, Mantachie, MS 38855

Trustee Solicits Supportfor Mountain View Haven

I, Steven Clark, on behalf of the boardof trustees for Mountain View Haven,am making an appeal to everyone read-ing this article. Mountain View Havenis a non-profit organization with thesole purpose of glorifying our Fatherwhich is in heaven by helping hurtingpeople. The vision of Mountain ViewHaven is to offer doctrinally sound Bib-lical counseling to people ranging fromdrug and alcohol addictions to mission-ary and pastoral needs and everythingin between. Haven will also be used foryouth retreats, men’s and boy’s retreats,women’s retreats, marriage retreats,and etc. I think that we can all agreethat our churches are in need of suchcounseling today.

The Lord has provided the funds topurchase the property. We are nowmaking strides to begin the first stage ofbuilding. This is essential for Haven tobegin its much needed ministry. Dr.Travis Plumlee received this vision fromthe Lord to begin such a facility becauseof all the requests from hurting people,many of which are members of ourchurches.

The question is asked, how can Ihelp? The board of trustees for Moun-tain View Haven is challenging eachchurch to set aside May 3, 2015, toreceive a love offering for Haven. Everycent that is raised on this day will gotoward the building project for Haven.This gift is considered a tax deductionand can be added to your charitablecontributions. I hope that you willprayerfully consider supporting Haven,and the ministry that it will be offering.

If you have any further questionsabout the ministry of Haven or thecounseling that will be offered, you cancontact Dr. Travis Plumlee atwww.travisplumlee.com., or StevenClark @ (601) 498-1827. You can mailany contributions that you would like togive to Mountain View Haven, P.O.163, Mountain View, AR 72560. Thanksfor your support, and may God blessyou.

In Christ Alone,Steven Clark

The History and Archive Commis-sion tries to keep up-to-date files thatpresent the workings of the variouschurches of the Baptist Missionary As-sociation of Mississippi and the localAssociation they are affiliated with.Some records from out of State are alsoincluded when considered appropriate.Your cooperation is vital to the successof the Commission.

We are grateful for the clerks of thelocal Associations who send annual cop-ies of the minutes of their Association tobe placed in their files. After determin-ing which minutes are missing, aneffort will be made to contact all theclerks to assure that all local Associa-tion minutes are up to date.

It is also helpful to have informationon each local church. We are askingeach church who prints a Bulletin tosend two copies at least once a year. Weare not asking to be placed on a weeklymailing list. The copies can be from thesame week. One copy will be placed in achurch file and the second can be in-cluded in a file with all the other bulle-tins from other churches. A file contain-ing many bulletins will be a great sourcefor all preparers of church bulletins whowould like to scan through them to getideas on how to improve their own.Bulletins or programs from any specialservice such as a Revivals, Homecom-ing, Church Anniversary, Pastor Ap-preciation, etc., can be sent to be kept inthe church file.

We would also like to receive any

book or pamphlet written by any Pastoror member to be placed in the History &Archive Library. This includes Biblestudies or articles on current issues andmoral problems that will be helpful toany who use the Library.

Our thanks are extended to thechurches who financially support theCommission. The only expense is tosubsidize Southeastern Baptist Collegefor providing the space and allowingLibrarian Amy Hinton to receive andcatalog all items received and book-keeper Sandy Tidwell to serve as Trea-surer for the Commission. We appreci-ate the great job these ladies do.

The following is a list of the fundsreceived since the annual meeting.First Baptist of Calhoun (Laurel) $ 90.00New Bethany (Ellisville) 60.00Lees' Chapel #2 (Picayune) 12.50Magnolia (Hattiesburg) 100.00Paramount (Perkinston) 300.00Riverside (Ellisville) 111.00Skyway Hills (Pearl) 180.00Spencer Memorial (Pascagoula) 134.00Springhill (Laurel) 64.20Washington (Neely) 213.05Berean (Soso) 49.00

Any item or offering should be mailedto History & Archive Commission atSoutheastern Baptist College, 4229Highway 15N, Laurel, MS 39440. If Ican be of any assistance or providefurther information, please feel free tocontact me at any time. My address is1244 Purvis Oloh Road, Purvis, MS,39475 and my phone is (601) 794-8861.

Commission onHistory & Archives

1244 Purvis Oloh Road, Purvis, MS 39475601-794-8861

Ed SteeleDirector

AVAILABLE FOR SERVICEZechariah RogersZechariah RogersZechariah RogersZechariah RogersZechariah Rogers

Zechariah Rogers is available forpreaching appointments. He is the 23year old son of Bro. George Rogers and

a member ofEmmanuel BaptistChurch in Tupelowhere Bro. Rogers ispastor. Zech is at-tending Blue Moun-tain College and pur-suing a degree inChristian Ministry.He may be reached

by calling 662-372-5730.Zech Rogers

CHURCH NEWS

Tennessee Church seeksbi-vocational pastor

Sixth Avenue Missionary Baptist Churchin Knoxville, Tennessee is currently seek-ing a bi-vocational pastor. Those that areprayerfully interested should submit in-quiries/ resumes to Mark Hill atmarkghill@att.net or by calling 865-690-5617.

5April 15, 2015 • Mississippi Baptist

Serving Christ With a Biblical World View In A Christian Atmosphere

Danny Pitts - Interim President4229 Highway 15 North, Laurel, Mississippi 39440, (601) 426-6346

SoutheasternBaptist College

Danny Pitts

Our Spring FestivalOur Spring FestivalOur Spring FestivalOur Spring FestivalOur Spring FestivalCollege Day will be held on Tuesday,

April 28th at 9:30AM. All prospectivestudents are especially invited to bepresent for the day. Others who justwant to become more informed aboutour school will be welcomed. Chapel, atour of the facilities, the opportunity tosit in on some classes, and a meal areonly part of what will happen during theday. Contact Ronnie Kitchens at 601-426-6346 for any additional details.

Summer ScheduleSummer ScheduleSummer ScheduleSummer ScheduleSummer ScheduleFour online courses will be offered

this summer. They are: Bible Geogra-phy, Worship, Prophetic Book (Revela-tion), and The Minor Prophets. Becausethey begin in early June, registration is

encouraged now. This is especially im-portant in preregistration for first timestudents. Contact our Dean, Dr. AaronParker, if you need more informationabout the classes. Because we have beenapproved by our accrediting commis-sion for totally online degrees, the com-plete schedule of the first semester foronline degrees will be available in theFall.

Busy Spring ScheduleBusy Spring ScheduleBusy Spring ScheduleBusy Spring ScheduleBusy Spring ScheduleThe 2015 Spring Semester will soon

be complete. Southeastern will be closedthe week of the BMA of America na-tional meeting. The trustees will meeton May 4th in preparation for the mid-year BMA of Mississippi meeting. Pleaseremember them in prayer.

Editor's Note-Below is a report from Dennis Rankin, a trustee of Southeastern College. Dennis &

Sylvia Rankin have worked hard and tirelessly to improve the facilities of the college.They have given of their time and much financial support in this effort. The Rankins havenot done this alone, there have been many individuals who have been involved andfollowing their leadership. They are to be commended and this editor urges our readersto come along beside them to continue the work at Southeastern Baptist College.

Update On Physical Plant Repairsand Upgrades at the College

by Dennis RankinIt has been almost a year and a half

since the repairs and maintenance pro-gram to the college was begun. Themain area of concern has been, andremains to be, the safety and security ofthe students.

Things done:Things done:Things done:Things done:Things done:1. Four fire-rated panic entrance/exitdoors have been installed.

2. Three fire escapes have been builtand installed.3. The main entrance to the canteenhas been completely rebuilt (roof re-moved & replaced, new lights, newpaneling & trim and ceramic tile havebeen installed).

4. The front steps going up to the secondfloor apartments have been painted.

5. The walkway and landing have beencovered with nonskid waterproofingpaint.6. The roofs on both dorms have beenreplaced.7. The flat roof on the back part of thegym over the stage area has been fixed.8. A smoke alarm system has beeninstalled in both dorms that will alertthe proper people if the alarm goes off.9. Three tall “pub style” tables with tall

stools have been placed in the canteen.10. A tree has been trimmed away froma power line.11. New hand rails were installed in thegym stage area.12. The deck and stair landing wasrepaired on the upstairs apartment inback.13. The carport for the upstairs apart-ment in back was stabilized and painted.14. The canteen has had dry wallrepaired and painted.15. New blinds were installed in thecanteen.16. The ceiling in the living room of theboys dorm was repaired.

The faculty house in the back of the property:1. Kitchen floor was repaired

2. New flooring was put in the kitchen,dining room and one bedroom3. A new back deck was installed.

The President's house:1. All interior doors replaced.2. New paneling installed in front

bedroom and another bedroom painted.3. New lighting in all bedrooms andhallway.4. Vanity tops replaced with culturedmarble.5. New faucets installed in baths.6. New cabinet hardware installed inbaths.7. New dishwasher.8. New flooring installed in laundryand utility rooms.

9. Water heater replaced.10. Painting of the house exterior isunderway.11. A tree that had fallen during astorm has been taken care of.

There are still manyThere are still manyThere are still manyThere are still manyThere are still manythings that need attention:things that need attention:things that need attention:things that need attention:things that need attention:1. 5 more panic entrance/exit doorsneed to be installed on both dorms andthe gym.2. Screened-in porch at president'shome is in need of repair.3. New flooring in both dorms.4. New kitchenettes in both dorms.5. New ceiling tile, lighting, vanities,bedding and desks in dorms.

The four upstairs apartments are inthe process of being updated with floor-ing and ceiling tile.

We've been privileged to work alongside and learn from: Gary Smith (roofer),Roger Jefcoat, Denny Johnson, BobbyLowe, Miles Horton, Gary & DebraHelton, Bro. Ray Freeman, Bro. Charlesand Linda Bobo, Bro. Justin Rhodes

It has been and continues to be ablessing to do this work as we lookforward to the college growing strongerthan ever in our work.

If your church or some groups in yourchurch (or you personally) want to be-come a part of this great effort, you candonate or participate. Any donation canbe sent to the college or to the BMA ofMississippi Revolving Loan Fund, des-ignated "Southeastern Baptist CollegeMaintenance Fund"

Thank you for your support whichhas made all these repairs & mainte-nance to the college possible.

I am at the college every other weekand can be contacted at home at 251-666-5618 or by contacting the college.

Rankin shows new entrance doorfor men's dorm

Bro. Charles Bobo preparingPresident's home for painting

Rankin finishing new deck on facutly house

New door installed in Canteen

Mrs. Sylvia (the boss) Rankin showingone of new 'pub styled' tables in Canteen

"It's Heaven's Jubilee"North Mississippi Senior Adult Conference

Unity Baptist ChurchGuntown, Mississippi

May 5, 2015 - 9:30 am - 3:00 pm

6 April 15, 2015 • Mississippi Baptist

Mississippi State GMA/SunbeamTreasurer’s Report

March 1, 2015by Shirlene Smith

Balance February 28, 2014 $ 9,038.06Total received

March 1, 2014-February 28, 2015 13,757.92Total to account for 22,795.98Paid out 13,047.53Balance on Hand, February 28, 2015 9,748.45

General Fund $ 8,266.57GMA Project (80%) 1,131.88Sunbeam Project 25.00D. Lawrence Memorial Fund 325.00Balance on Hand 9,748.45

Contributions to the Mississippi State GMA ProjectGMASl. Bethel Baptist Church, Fulton $300.002. Big Creek Baptist Church, Soso 100.003. Buffalo Baptist Church, McLain 500.004. Hopewell Baptist Church, Laurel 214.855. Mildred Sumrall, Temple, Laurel 100.006. Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, Carriere 120.007. Paramount Baptist Church, Wiggins 100.008. Shiloh Baptist Church, Mt. Olive 334.009. Skyway Hills Baptist Church, Pearl 125.0010. Temple Baptist Church, Lucedale 250.0011. Donna Lawrence Memorial Fund 325.00RECEIVED FROM ACTIVITIES AT GMA CAMP:12. Officers’ Competition 85.0513. Silent Auction 453.5014. Craft Sales 239.5515. Snack Shop (1/2 proceeds) 347.7916. Candy Grams 33.25Total received for the project $3,627.99

Project:General Fund

(20 % plus designated offerings) $750.6140% MS State Missionary Phillip Burns, Sumrall 1,438.6940% Coleen Franks Women’s Ministry, Ukraine 1,438.69Total for projec $ 3,627.99

Thanks to each one who supported the Mississippi StateGMA Project this year. Our new project is 25% GeneralFund and 75% Southeastern Baptist College. GMAs andCounselors, we need to work even harder this year tosupport this new project. Send your offerings for this newproject to: Shirlene Smith; 730 Hwy 533; Laurel, MS 39443.God bless each one as we serve and bring honor and gloryto our Savior Jesus Christ through the Girls’ MissionaryAuxiliary program!

GMA GirlsState Youth Auxiliary Director

Beth Caldwell166 Twin Creek Rd,Lucedale, MS 39452

601-947-6011

State GMA PromoterBecky Farmer

464 Churchwell RoadHattiesburg, MS 39401

601-596-1005becky@southforrest.org

Upcoming Events

Missions & EvangelismConference

Hillcrest Baptist Church,Yazoo City

May 1, 2015

Senior Adult ConferencesNorth - Unity Church, Guntown

May 12. 2015

BMAA Annual MeetingApril 20-22, 2015

Springfield, Missouri

State Midyear MeetingMay 19, 2015

Campground Church, GulfportBlake McCain, speaker

Junior CampWaukaway Springs

June 1-3, 2015Speaker - Dr. John David Smith

7April 15, 2015 • Mississippi Baptist

MISSISSIPPI BAPTIST

CHILDREN'S HOME118 LOWE ROAD, LAUREL, MISSISSIPPI 39443 - (601) 426-3928

SIDNEY DAVIS - DIRECTOR SIDNEY DAVIS

Women's Missionary AuxiliaryPresidentLinda Smith

2816 Old Bay Springs Rd.Laurel, MS 39440

601-470-1398

Corresponding SecretaryMrs. Shirlene Smith

730 Hwy 533Laurel, MS 39443

601-729-5638

God Bless Our HomesGod Bless Our HomesGod Bless Our HomesGod Bless Our HomesGod Bless Our HomesThere is a story that is told about a

little boy who was sitting by a stack ofluggage in a hotel lobby. A sympatheticbellhop came over trying to encouragehim. Apparently there had been amixup on the reservations for this fam-ily that had just moved to town.

“Well, don’t cry,” said the bellhop.“One of these days soon you’ll have ahome.”

The boy smiled. “Oh, that’s ok. Wealready have a home, all we have to dois find a house to put it in!”

That little boy had put some thoughtinto his reply. There’s a differencebetween a house and a home. Andthere’s a difference between any homeand a Christian home. And that differ-ence is Jesus Christ.

Remember when Mary brought hergift of love to Christ’s feet, and thefragrance filled the house? “Then tookMary a pound of ointment of spikenard,very costly, and anointed the feet ofJesus, and wiped his feet with her hair:and the house was filled with the odourof ointment.” John 12:3. There is justa different atmosphere to the home thatgives its best to Christ. David put theark (a symbol of Jesus Christ) in thehouse of Obed-edom, and turned thathumble dwelling place into a holy ofholies. “And the ark of the LORDcontinued in the house of Obed-edomthe Gittite three months: and the LORDblessed Obed-edom, and all his house-hold.” 2 Samuel 16:11.

It’s wonderful for a family to attendchurch together and worship the Lord,but it’s even better along with that tohave an atmosphere of worship andservice to God in your own house! Maywe give our all, our best, to Christ, andallow the fragrance of His presence andblessing be evident in our homes.

You Never KnowYou Never KnowYou Never KnowYou Never KnowYou Never KnowWhat A Day May BringWhat A Day May BringWhat A Day May BringWhat A Day May BringWhat A Day May Bring

To say that exciting things happenaround our home would be an under-

statement. Our kindergarten boylearned to ride his bike without trainingwheels. Everything was just fine untilhe made that sharp turn. You got it, hehad a wreck which left quite a scratchon his knee.

Our second grade girl had an acci-dent at school which required a cast on

her arm because of a fracture.These are just reminders to us that

things happen in our daily lives to helpus along the way as we live our lives.

Remember in PrayerRemember in PrayerRemember in PrayerRemember in PrayerRemember in Prayerand Focus Verseand Focus Verseand Focus Verseand Focus Verseand Focus Verse

Continue to remember the girls andboys and the ministry of the Home inyour prayers. “And the ark of the LORDcontinued in the house of Obed-edomthe Gittite three months: and the LORDblessed Obed-edom, and all his house-hold.” 2 Samuel 6:11.

Kindergarten boy learning to ride bike

Second grade girl with cast on broken arm

Big Creek WMA &Brotherhood Date Change

by Bonnie BrownBig Creek District WMA PresidentThe May meeting of the Big Creek

District Brotherhood and WMA hasbeen changed to Monday, May 11. Wewill still meet at Parkview BaptistChurch. The change is due to a conflictwith the Big Creek Associational Re-vival.

Please mark this change on yourcalendar. I look forward to our meetingand seeing you there.

Oak Grove District WMAQuarterly Report

by Betty Kendrick, reporterPine Grove Baptist Church hosted

the Oak Grove WMA Quarterly meet-ing, Friday, April 3. Belinda Lee of PineGrove Church welcomed us and askedBrother Denny Patterson of Good Hope

Church to open the meeting with prayerand to give a blessing upon our food. Asplendid array of Mexican foods wereserved plus numerous choices of des-serts. A fun part of the evening in-cluded door prizes.

The highlight of the evening was aprogram given by Amy Barrett of Purvis.She gave an inspirational talk aboutlosing her 19 year old son about sixmonths ago. This experience onlystrengthened her relationship with Godeven though the road has not been easy.Her son was a Christian and a leaderand this event changed the journey ofthe entire family's lives. The wellattended audience was touched by hertrust and faith in God.

Debbie Patterson of Good HopeChurch led in prayer, and the meetingwas dismissed. The next meeting willbe held on Friday, July 10, at BethelBaptist Church in Bassfield.

State Galilean Camp Reportby Mark Jones

State Galilean Promoter

The Mississippi Galilean camp was held at Camp Garaywa in Clinton on March19-20. Our theme this year was "Building Barriers"from I Peter 1:4-9. The camp pastor this year wasBro. Steven Clark from Pearl. He did a fantastic jobof sharing God's word. Maverick Farris led ourmusic this year and did an awesome job of leading usin worship.

Keaton Walley from Temple Baptist Church,Lucedale, is the new Mr. Senior Galilean and Mat-thew Wheeler from Bethel Baptist Church in Fultonis our new Mr. Junior Galilean for the state ofMississippi. Please be in prayer for these two youngmen as they move on to National Galilean camp tocompete for the national titles.

The most important thing that happened duringcamp was that 3 young men received Christ as theirSavior and two rededicated their lives to Christ. Praythat these young men will take this as a start to alifetime work for Jesus.

The National Galilean Camp is June 8-11 in Gary,Texas. Be a blessing and take your young men to thiscamp. The 2016 Mississippi Galilean Camp is March18-19, 2016 and the theme will be "EXAMPLE"

Keaton WalleyMr. Senior Galilean

"It's Heaven's Jubilee"North Mississippi Senior Adult Conference

Unity Baptist ChurchGuntown, Mississippi

May 5, 2015 - 9:30 am - 3:00 pm

We give thanks to God and theFather of our Lord Jesus Christ,praying always for you,

Since we heard of your faith inChrist Jesus, and of the love whichye have to all the saints,

For the hope which is laid upfor you in heaven, whereof yeheard before in the word of thetruth of the gospel;

Which is come unto you, as it isin all the world; and bringeth forthfruit, as it doth also in you, sincethe day ye heard of it, and knewthe grace of God in truth:

Col.1:3-6

Pray for One Another

8 April 15, 2015 • Mississippi Baptist

MORAL ACTIONBaptist Missionary Association of America

Dr. John M. Adams,DirectorP.O. Box 305, Mantachie, MS 38855 - 662-231-3863

On The Web at www.macbma.net/Email - fbcdjmaj@yahoo.com John Adams

Mississippi State Capitol

Moral Action Prayer Walkby Shane Singleton

In a time when talk of governmentseems to produce discouragement, Ifound myself to be greatly refreshedduring a recent visit with members ofour state legislature. As a trustee ofMoral Action Mississippi, Iwas privileged to be a partof a prayer walk held March3 at our state Capitol. Itwas an enjoyable time anda great blessing.

The morning started witha prayer meeting. In a con-ference room off of the mainhallway, members of boththe House and Senate, alongwith staff, several pages,and other visitors, cametogether to share the con-cerns of their heart. Notonly were petitions madefor the business of the dayand those who would be con-ducting it, but personal requests wereshared as well. A wonderful devotionalwas shared encouraging us to use theinfluence we have for positive purposes.

One of the pages, a young boy in thegroup named Alex, very confidentlyvoiced the closing prayer.

As we made our way to the Housechamber where the day’s proceedings

were about to begin, we had opportunityto meet and speak with many of theRepresentatives. After Speaker protem Greg Snowden brought the cham-ber to order, Representative Randy Boydintroduced our Moral Action director,Dr. John Adams, to open the Housesession with prayer. To hear that intro-duction, prayer, and share in the Pledgeof Allegiance, was very inspiring to me.

The prayer walk began in full as weleft the House and made our way throughthe entire Capitol building. As we passedthrough, we gave consideration to thework that is done for our state in each ofthose offices and meeting rooms, and wegave remembrance for those who areengaged in that work – legislators, staff,pages, security, and so on. After a briefstop in the Governor’s office, we madeour way to the Senate chamber, andeven though it was not in session at thetime, I was privileged to voice our inter-cessory prayer for them.

This was my first time to be able totake part in the prayer walk, and I hadentered the Capitol building with a littlebit of nervous apprehension. We re-ceived a warm and friendly welcomefrom everyone we met, many of whommade time to talk with us. Hearingabout their faith, their convictions, theirregard not just for pastors in general,but their own pastors was encouraging.After the walk ended, and I was leaving,it was with renewed anticipation ofwhat those in government can accom-plish.

I also left with the idea that maybe wewould experience a little less discour-agement if we engaged in a little moreprayer.

Sofilthy'sAtticby Barbara White

Sleeping OnA Waterbed

Not long ago I had my first-timeexperience of sleeping on a water bed.The first challenge is getting in ANDout of the bed, but with practice, Imastered that.

I won't say that it was a spiritualexperience, but I was reminded of howthe disciples must have felt when theywere in a storm on the sea of Galilee.Many years later someone wrote a songabout it: "Master, the tempest is rag-ing. The billows are tossing high......."And if you have a problem with motionsickness, I certainly don't recommendit.

Just as Jesus calmed the sea, hecalmed that sloshing waterbed and Islept good! I don't do many things well,but I sleep good!

Sleeping good is a special blessingfrom God! "Come unto me all ye thatlabour and are heavy laden, and I willgive you rest." Matt. 11:28

A Closer Look At The Lord’s Supperby Danny Pitts, pastor

First Baptist Church of Shady GroveLaurel, Mississippi

Part II

I Corinthians 11:23 For I have receivedof the Lord that which also I deliveredunto you, That the Lord Jesus the samenight in which he was betrayed tookbread: 24 And when he had giventhanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat:this is my body, which is broken for you:this do in remembrance of me. 25 Afterthe same manner also he took the cup,when he had supped, saying, This cup isthe new testament in my blood: this doye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembranceof me. 26 For as often as ye eat thisbread, and drink this cup, ye do shewthe Lord's death till he come. 27 Where-fore whosoever shall eat this bread, anddrink this cup of the Lord, unworthily,shall be guilty of the body and blood ofthe Lord. 28 But let a man examinehimself, and so let him eat of that bread,and drink of that cup.

Another issue concerning the Lord'sSupper which has been debated is howoften it should be observed. One denomi-nation says that its importance is sogreat that it should be available everySunday. A weekly observance causes itto be taken lightly and lose it sacred-ness. A daily observance would be re-quired from applying the following pas-sage to the Lord's Supper, instead ofmeals or fellowships: "And they, con-tinuing daily with one accord in thetemple, and breaking bread from houseto house, did eat their meat with glad-ness and singleness of heart" (Acts 2:46).This does not appear to be the meaning.

The text says that "as often as ye eatthis bread and drink this cup, ye doshew the Lord's death." The point in thepassage is showing the symbolism whichreminds of the Jesus' crucifixion whenyou do it. Because the setting of the Last

Supper was a Passover Seder, someunderstand Paul to be saying, "as oftenas you keep the Passover." This hasbeen used to require the observance atleast once a year.

Our brethren have understood thetext to be indicating that no certaintime was required. This leaves it up toeach individual congregation. Mostchurches allow the pastor some discre-tion in scheduling the ceremony. Otherprograms of the worship services maymake a rigid time for the observance tobe impractical. Also gross fellowshipproblems in the congregation may makethe service unwise. Every member, how-ever, has the Biblical responsibility toexamine themselves and make surethey are ready to participate. In fact,that requirement may spur members tomake sure that they have nothing be-tween them and the Lord or betweenthem and other members of the body.

The flexibility of when also applies towhich service it occurs. Most of ourchurches have traditionally done it onSunday evenings. Because our churchesstress limiting the practice to churchmembers, Sunday mornings may upsetvisitors who do not understand the Bib-lical convictions which are behind therestriction. H. L. Lee, who is now withthe Lord after serving as pastor for over25 years, said when he discovered thathis church observed the Lord's Supperon Sunday mornings, he did not likethat. He said that he determined tochange it. He did during the 17th yearof his pastorate there. Obviously mostpastors would not have the longevity orpatience to accomplish such goals.Whenever may be significant, but moreimportant is that we worship the Lordas our Savior during the observance.

Water Tells TalesBy Douglas Laird

As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man (Prov. 27:19).Once I picked up a tourist attraction post card and as soon as I looked at it, I

turned it around only to find myself for a moment confused about which was thetop and which was the bottom. It was a lake in the foothills that one had somedifficulty determining which was the mountain and which was the reflection.

Similarly, Proverbs says that as the water mirrors one’s face, so one’s heartmirrors or responds to man. The mirror does not lie. As you view your face, it isreflected as it really is. If your face is dirty, it shows it. If you need to shave, it showsit. If your makeup is not straight, it shows it. If you need a haircut, it shows it. You may convince your husband or your wife of your righteousness andgood conduct. You may persuade your parents that you are the fulfillment of theirevery expectation. You may lead the Sunday School teacher, pastor, or other churchmembers to believe that your conduct is above reproach. They may be convinced byyour life that you are truly a child of God. But if these things are not true, try toconvince your own heart. As you rest on your pillow at night, hear the voice fromwithin. It continues to tell you that you are not what you are reputed to be. It is notpersuaded that you are a Christian. It continues to say that you are not. That youare not prepared to meet God, that you are not ready to die.

As the mirror, your heart is not lying to you. And as you face the facts of yourreal self, should you not desist from the pursuit of hypocrisy, of trying to fake it?Should you not bring your life into focus by making your life right with God, bytrusting Jesus as your Savior and Lord? You know that you should. Your heartresponds with that message loud and clear.