New look and Prayer meeting

Well, somebody has been sprucing up the blogsite.  I will take a stab and say it was Ernie.  It sure wasn't me, but I do love it.  Thanks, Ernie!!!!!  We appreciat you sooooo much!!  Love you, too, Donna!!!!

Jim and I went to the Prayer Meeting last night, and it was great.  Brandon led it with Bruce Clinton on guitar and Ray Williams finishing up at the end.   Bruce began with Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus and another song.  Then Brandon whose heart was full of emotion and praise, led us first to just raise our voices in prayer and praise to God ... outloud and all at the same time. Then he asked us to read or speak out scriptures that came to our mind, and one at a time scripture came from all over the room... no stories, no other words, just scripture.   I was amazed at how many did that without a Bible..... uh... from memory. Praise His Name!!  Then we prayed for other things outloud (the church, the country, etc) and also did some in small groups with those around us.  Ended with Ray leading us in prayer and with some scripture and then Bruce ended with a worship song.  All in all it is what we have all been praying for.  We were very encouraged by the fact that the Edge was over half full and at the people and how you could hear their hearts as they prayed.

Brandon humbly said that he and some of the elders have been meeting on Wed noon and fasting and praying for God's wisdom and leadership of the church. He said this to encourage us that the leadership is praying and seeking God's leadership. You could hear his emotion in saying that they didn't want their own agenda.... they wanted HIS agenda by His Spirit!!  WOW!!! He encouraged us to pray about doing that ourselves not with them in body.... but with them in the Spirit. 

He also mentioned that the next prayer meeting might not be just like this one....  they were trying to let the Lord lead in what they did each time. All in all a wonderful evening that was highly encouraging and uplifting.

Birthday Blessing - Dan

Dan
Happy Birthday !!!!
"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."

Let's pray for Uganda

Uganda
After years under previous regimes where there was severe persectution of Christians (ha.... not Christinas)... now there is freedom of religion.   Let's pray for Katie and for all those ministering in this place.... and for the rest of Africa.   May God bring many to Himself during this period of freedom of religion in Uganda.

Happy Birthday DAN!!!!

Happy Birthday, DAN!!!!!!

Have a great day in Him....    Full of HIM and joy and health and loaded with praise!!!   We are grateful that God put you in our community group!!!!!   You are loved!!!!

CG Prayer and Birthday Celebration

well...we met, we shared, we praised Jesus, we prayed, we celebrated, we ate....we missed our friends not present...

Suzanne's dad

Suzanne's dad is in St. Vincent's Rehab, which is a praise!!!!!   However, he is very confused and tries to get out of bed a lot (without help).  He can stay there at least 14 days.  So let's continue to pray!!!!!

Prayer Request

Just heard from Suzanne about her dad.  Dr. Liu says he will go "in and out" until all the drugs are out of his body.  He needs to go to acute rehab or they will have to send him to a nursing home which is what Suzanne wants to avoid if at all possible.  Please pray for him to get to acute rehab and be able to return to his assisted living.  Thanks!

Let's talk!!!!!!

Was that not a great service this morning?  Best State of the Church message yet.  Some favorite lines....  "If God sent the wind of His Spirit on the church would we be ready for it... would you be ready for it?? He won't send His Spirit until we are ready."  okay, it wasn't word for word.  Anyone can add or take away from that but what a great moment.  Also "The state of the church is really about the state of us."  What a call for us to grow up in the Lord and be the church... opps that was another thing he mentioned.   Anyway....  "emphasis on prayer" in the coming year!!!  Sooo much more. Well, Saints, this is not the time to stop praying....  we need to really bear down in prayer as God moves us into yet another season with Him.

Dan, keep us posted on Bible Church.  I think God is moving in Little Rock.  Praise His Name!!!

Ah..... now.  I know that some of you may not be able to make it this Friday, but we are going to try to have community group!!!  PLEASE let me know if you will be there.  Place to be announced.   Browns, I know that you may not be there.... Country Smiths, you will be at the lake.  How about you, Dan???  Suzanne and the Peters are able to make it.

We went to see Suzanne's dad and thought he was doing pretty well.  He was up in a chair with his favorite daughter by his side.  He is confused at times but did recognize JIM!!!!  They want to move him to a rehab as soon as possible.  I think he is a miracle of God.  Hip replacement and doing pretty well.  God is good.
Susan Brown's headaches are better.  Another praise.

His,
linda and jim

Community Group Meeting

Community Group will NOT meet this Friday.  We will meet in September and get on our schedule of meeting every 2 weeks.  

Grateful for each of you.

as the world turns at the Ludvigson's house

Now that I got your attention, I will fill you in on what happened this weekend. We had a great time celebrating dad's birthday early and everything went fine. Mom and Debbie actually hugged one another before she and Tim left to return to Texas.


Prayer request:

Just yesterday, 08/18/11, mother had another vertigo attack. Thankfully, she was at Friendship and she was surrounded by some wonderful ladies that took mother home and took care of her until I was able to come home. She got better in about 2 hours and I was able to return to work.

Pray that these episodes would not come on her so often. It was just about a month ago that she had a big one at church. She is also worried that this will speed up her hearing loss.

Happy Birthday to MEL!!!!!!

Just a quick note to say Happy Birthday to Mel!!!!   God be praised for his life!!!!  I could not reach Dorothy to ask how the weekend festivities went.  Dan, can you give us an update on this site so it will go out to everyone.

Thanks!!!  Love you all!!!

SageWorks Kickoff August 14th

Well, Robert Lewis and Bill Parkinson hit it out of the park Sunday night. It was truly vintage Robert and Bill. I encourage you to go to the SageWork's website and listen to Robert's message when they post it. I detect the thrust is more RADICAL (David Platt's Radical) this year and less fun and games than last year.
Also, there will be about six training or equipping sessions you can sign up for according to how the Spirit is leading in your life. I would assume these will be listed on the SageWork's site, and you can also sign up on site for any session you feel led to attend.
Linda and I saw Shelby, and he has three service areas under his guidance and supervision. One is a Community Group for those who can't get out at night; it meets every other week at the church around noon. Next is a visitation ministry to shutins. Visit, chat, Bible study, communion, and prayer. Third is a home repair service for widows and single ladies who need help with repairs around their homes. This is not BetterBusinessBureau approved, but the price is appealing----FREE!
It was a great kickoff, and it sounds like a very exciting year ahead.

RAIN!!!!!!! One more reason to praise HIM

AHHH!!!!!!   Blessed RAIN!!!!!   One more reason to praise HIM!!!!!  Meet you at the throne to Praise HIM!!!!

Community Group

Praise the Lord!!!  Community Group will meet at the City Smith's on Friday night at 7PM for prayer and praise and something cold to drink!!!!  Please contact me if you are coming... or not.... if you haven't already communicated with me.  Sageworks will also meet for a Kickoff on Sunday night at 6PM to 7:30 in the Warehouse.  Dan, can you send us an update on your dad and mom.  Peters family can you let us know if you are home and how your time away has been.  You have been prayed for!!

God be praised we have so much to be thankful for!!!   Saints, our hope is in Him... and Him alone... and that is a GOOD thing.... a VERY GOOD place to place our lives and our hope.

See you on Friday night.

Praise!!!

Suzanne saw the doctor today, and praise the name of the Lord......  he said everything is looking perfect!!!!.  She had a very big surgery.  Her recovery is right on schedule as far as the doctor is concerned.....  Suzanne.... well, she wishes it was much faster but is grateful that all is well, and she is feeling better and better every day.

Prayers for Mel

Please continue to pray for Mel (and Dorothy and Dan),  Mel is still in the hospital with pneumonia.  He is very weak and not eating very well at all.  Please pray for him and for peace for Dan and Dorothy as they go through this.   May the Presence of the Living God overwhelm them with His grace.

Prayer requests

Prayer request and info from Dan concerning Mel.   Meet you at the throne of grace.  I love the way that Dan ends his email.  God be praised!!!   We love you, Dan.
( from Dan)

You probably know about dad already. I got to the ER around 7 am and sat with dad till 11. He seemed to be doing better but around 10am his blood pressure started to plung and send the bells and whistles going off. By around 11 the numbers were rising slowly but they never got back into the good range.

The doctor finally returned with the verdict of pneumonia. We will see how quickly dad can conquer this. It could very well be the beginning of the end and the beginning of the next but whatever the Lord has in mind I pray I can wait patiently on Him.

More later,
Dan
p.s. PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW.

News on Yousef and community group

We have decided to have community group on August 12th.... details later.  I know that I told some of you that we would be meeting this coming Friday but that has changed soooo we are aiming for the 12th.  Please let me know how that fits with your schedule.  Thanks!

And here is info on Yousef....  It is long but so is his sentence.  Let's support him in prayer.

Location: Iran (Islamic Republic of)
Arrested: October 2009  Days Imprisoned: 658

07/13/2011 Update

Youcef Nadarkhani, a 34-year-old pastor from Rasht, about 750 miles northwest of Tehran, was arrested in October 2009 after he protested a government policy that required children, including his 8- and 9-year-old sons, to study the Quran in school. Youcef told school officials that the Iranian constitution allows for freedom of religious practice. As a result of his protest, secret police called him before a political tribunal and arrested him for protesting. The charges were later amended to apostasy and evangelism of Muslims. Youcef was tried on Sept. 21–22, 2010 by the 1st Court of the Revolutionary Tribunal and sentenced to death on Nov. 13 for apostasy.

The pastor is imprisoned in Lakan prison, where authorities have used various methods, including medication, to convert him back to Islam.
After Youcef refused to convert to Islam, his wife was arrested, put on trial without an attorney and sentenced to life in prison. She was later released after an attorney appealed her sentence. The Nadarkhanis’ children were cared for by a relative while they were both in prison.

Youcef Still Needs Prayers
Pastor Youcef Nadarkhani remains in prison awaiting re-examination of his case. This is likely to take place sometime in September. Until then, it is critical that we continue to pray for him. Our contacts report that he is standing firm and strong in his faith, and is even encouraging those who are discouraged, exhorting them to trust in the Lord.
Supreme Court Sends Case Back to Lower Court
VOM’s contacts are reporting a new development in the case of Youcef Nadarkhani. His lawyer has finally received the written ruling from the Supreme Court. According to one source, the Supreme Court has agreed with the death sentence verdict. However, the court “pointed out procedural flaws and is asking the lower court to re-examine the case.” The judges would like clarification as to whether Youcef was truly a Muslim prior to becoming a Christian. If Youcef is determined to have been a “true” Muslim, and he does not recant his Christian faith, the death sentence will stand.

Death Sentence Annulled Temporarily
On Sunday, Iran's supreme court has overturned a death sentence handed down to Youcef Nadarkhani.
"The supreme court has annulled the death sentence and sent the case back to the court in Rasht, asking the accused to repent," Mohammad Ali Dadkhah said.
The court’s decision will lift the death sentence only if Youcef recants his Christian faith. It is not clear what will happen if he does not recant.
Youcef’s lawyer was also sentenced on Sunday to nine years in jail and a 10-year ban on practicing law or teaching at university for "actions and propaganda against the Islamic regime".

Please pray for Suzanne's son Nick

Please pray for Suzanne's son, Nick.  He is in a rehab in Hot Springs and will be there for a month.  He has been using Meth again and doing hydrocodone.  (I am not sure that I spelled that correctly or even that it is the drug that Suzanne told me).   Suzanne knew that he wasn't "right" when she last saw him, so it was not a total surprise.  Please, please, please pray for a MIRACLE!!!!!   Nick cannot get off these drugs successfully without the Lord's amazing grace and help.   PLEASE PRAY!!!!!  God is able to do all things.... all things!!!!

Suzanne continues to recover.  It is slow but she is improving.  Continue to pray for her.
Also pray for the Peters as they vacation.... safety.... relaxation.... peace.
See you Sunday night between 5:30 and 6PM when it will actually begin.  We appreciate you all.

Dorothy and Mel..... and Dan

Two prayer requests from Dan!!!  Please add Dan to this list.  What a great son he is!!!!

1. Mother. She had a bad vertigo attack on Sunday morning during church service on 07/17/11. Was throwing up all during the worship service. I sat with her in the baby cry room and “tried” to listen to the sermon. She lost more of her hearing. She is going to the Ear specialist this afternoon.
Pray that the hearing would come back.

2. Dad: He had to be taken to the Baptist ER yesterday afternoon. Was found by one of the nurses slumped over in his wheelchair with shallow breathing. The nursing home got him to bed and put him on some oxygen. He came back to full life shortly there after. Doctor wanted to know what happen to him, so sent him to the ER. The ER doctor found nothing out of the ordinary with him and came to the conclusion that Dad’s heart beat slow to such a rate as to not pumping enough blood to the brain. I feel mother and I had a preview as to how Dad will be leaving this world. When this happens again, the nursing home will do what they did and some day the oxygen will not be enough. The doctor said this is the least painful of ways to leave this life. Mother was doing just fine. She has been preparing herself for the “Event”.

3. Pray that I will be the solid post Mother will be able to lean on when the “Event” occurs. Thank you.

Suzanne and Hidden Creek

Well, praise the Lord!!!   Just talked to Suzanne, and she said that she thought she had turned a corner in her recovery from her surgery and was feeling better.  This was a big surgery, and the recovery is not easy or quick, but she is making good progress and for that we give praise and thanksgiving!!  Thanks so much for your prayers and support of Suzanne.

Also, some info on the meal we are doing for the Hidden Creek residents Jobs for Life course graduation.  It is indeed to be held at 6PM on July 31st.  We will be getting casseroles from a place in Scott, AR and will only need help with salads and bread.  We will also be getting a cake for the celebration.  I do not have a head count at this point but will give you that info as I get it from Jennifer Hawthorne at church.

Suzanne and other info

Suzanne stayed an extra day in the hospital because she was having a lot of pain and was needing to recover her strength.  She should go home today but that, too, could change.  Please call her home as God leads to see how she is and if you can help her with errands or anything and pray, pray, pray for her.  Jennifer is supposed to come sometime this weekend for the day.... maybe more.   Oh, Suzanne's dad has been clear as a bell everytime we talked to him so that is an answer to Suzanne's prayers.  He even recognized me even though Jim wasn't with me...... (that is an inside joke for some of you)  Thanks for your amazing love and prayers for them all.

I am off to Seattle this morning and still do not have a firm date for the dinner at Hidden Creek.  It will be the July 24th or 31st.  If you are able to help that would be great, but I know it may not be possible for everyone to be there or to help.  However, Suzanne and I planned the dinner so the date is all we need.  (she will NOT remember discussing it since it was the night of her surgery.... but she made complete sense to me... no comments, please)  :-)

Suzanne's surgery

Just a reminder to pray for Suzanne tomorrow as she goes in for surgery.  The surgery is at St. Vincent's Hospital and will be done at 12 noon.  I will send you updates as the day progresses.  Thanks for your prayers..... So grateful that you are so faithful to pray AND that He is faithful to hear and to move in His mighty power. 

Also there is still no firm date on the meal we will do for the residents and teachers of Jobs for Life at Hidden Creek.  That night there will be a time of eating and fellowship and then there will probably be a time when they discuss the last lesson or a summary of what they learned during the course.  Since I am NOT in charge of that (praise His Name), and since I do not have a JFL notebook, I am not sure what the agenda will be.  First let me say a big thank you for bearing with me as we plan this... sorry if my emails were confusing or if I misunderstood your responses (my fault for sure)...  but as soon as they give me a firm date I will be in touch with you.  It should be either July 24th or 31st.  The date is set by them and when they feel it will be best for the residents and those who taught the classes.  Please know that I realize that some of you may not all be able to make it and that is certainly understandable.  God knows....  and has a plan... :-)  

Again...  I will be tied up for the first of this week and then off to Seattle on Thursday for a week.  You can always reach me by phone at 501-425-1482, and I will be in touch about Suzanne.  I praise God for you and for your hearts for Him.

A great sermon

Both Susan and Suzanne mentioned to me the sermon at Charles Stanley's church yesterday.  Soooo okay, I got the message, Lord!!  I listened to it and thought you might like the website where you can see it, too.  So here it is, and the message is titled, "Free Indeed".   Well worth the time!!!!! 

Happy Fourth of July!!!! and a PRAISE!!!

Happy Fourth of July!!!!!   We are blessed to live in this country and although there is much that is not good.... there is a lot of freedoms that we have that are not common in other countries.  Remember Youcef in Iran.  No news yet of release or execution.  May God bring many Muslims to Himself in Youcef's life or his death.  Youcef has life eternal which is freedom here on earth and in heaven.

Also wanted to tell you a great story of Freedom that happened this year.  Cathie Malcom works in the bookstore first service.  One day before she went to church she shared with us that she was going to do One to One with her personal trainer at the LR Athletic Club. She asked us to pray  for her and the young man.  She has been keeping us all updated.... and shared a few weeks ago that he had come to Christ!!!!!   Well, yesterday she brought him to church.   When she asked him to come he told her he had never been to church before... and asked what does it cost to go there.  Hmmm!!!!  they are out there, Friends... those who do not know Christ but also don't know much about church.  Well, he came with his little son.  Guess what?   No, FSK... so the cute little guy went to church with them with a little truck that Cathie had brought for him.  He sat quietly while his Daddy got to hear the message.  Think of the impact the message by Bill must have made on him as a father.    Praise God!!!!!   Freedom in Christ!!!!  That is a freedom that we all have and that NO ONE can take away from us.  Let's rejoice in that today.  He has liberated the captives to live for Him.  Continue to pray for the young man...  we met him but we have forgotten his name, but God hasn't forgotten it!!!  It is written in the book of life.

Community Group meeting Friday night!!!

The community group will meet at Suzanne's home this Friday night at 7PM for prayer and praise to our awesome God.   If you are NOT able to come PLEASE contact Suzanne!!!!  

Also don't forget to pray for Suzanne as she will have surgery on July 11th. !!!!  Love you all

Happy Anniversary Dorothy and Mel

Today is Dorothy and Mel's 65th Anniversary!!!!!!!   Glory to God!!!!   A week ago Dorothy was afraid that Mel would not live to celebrate this anniversary since he had double pneumonia.  But by the incredible grace of God, she and Dan were going to see him tonight to celebrate.  Also wanted to mention that Tim and Deb and their one son came to see Mel on Father's Day.  That is another praise!!   Our God is an awesome God.

Also have not heard from you all, but wondered if July 1st will work for everyone for Community Group.  Time and place to be announced. 

To Him be the glory!

Prayer request

Prayer request:...  I don't get the ones that are supposed to come through the email so maybe you already know this.


Bill Wellons (wife: Carolyn) Bill is having a total hip replacement in the morning (Friday).
Please pray for successful surgery and a complete recovery and healing with no complications.

Community Group

Well, I am home and trying to get some things in place for July.  
#1 We are looking for a good date for the July meeting.  Please tell me which weekend is better for you.  The July 1st weekend or the weekend of the 8th....  AND is Friday a good night that week that you chose??  We had talked about a Sunday EAT, but that leaves out some of the group so what do you think????  Friday night... Sat evening....  hmmmm!!

#2  Suzanne is having surgery on July 11th.  We will be helping with meals when she comes home and maybe some help with driving to appts, etc.  (more on that as we get closer to the date)   She has a lot of friends who will be wanting to help so Sherry and I will coordinate things with them.  I will leaving on July 14th for Seattle to see my sister so will help on the days before I leave.

Please keep Suzanne in prayer.... and let me know which weekend is better for you.  You are loved.
His,
linda

Spurgeon and other things

First still praising God for the Ludvigson's time in Texas..... trip, celebration, relationships, good times.
Also wanted you to know that the prayer info for a new country every week is down again so I thought we could pray for Iran.... a country where there are many imprisoned for their faith.  Heb 13:3... "Remember the prisoners as though in prison with them and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body."  May His name be glorified and many come to Him... and may the prisoners find His peace and presence and health... may their prison food taste like a feast in the middle of their persecutors.
Sherry wrote a quick text....  "God is in Texas!!"....  Some of you may have heard more so if so please share with us all.  What a joy to hear that God is moving and working there through Jeff!!!!!
Suzanne  will have some surgery on July 11th so please pray for her in this time before the surgery.
And  Community group will meet in July.....  hopefully we can plan it when I get home from a trip I am taking this week..
Now  was reading something today and saw this quote.....  so thought I would share it.  

“…there is nothing you can want, there is nothing you can ask for,
     there is nothing you can need in time or in eternity,
     there is nothing living, nothing dying,
     there is nothing in this world, nothing in the next world,
     there is nothing now, nothing at the resurrection-morning,
     nothing in heaven
     which is not contained in this text —
                        “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”

~Charles Spurgeon

The nearness of my God is my good.  Ps 73.... You are loved and appreciated.

Pray for....

 East Asia  sorry I am late with this..... yikes how did this week get away from me... 
Also.... see you on Friday at 6:30PM.  And please pray for Dan and Dorothy as they travel to go to their grandson's graduataion AND pray for healed relationships when they are there.  Also pray for Susan Bowden as you goes away for a reunion.... safety and great times in the Lord for her and the Ludvigsons.

· Population - 1.298, 257,000

· Percentage of Evangelicals - 5.7%

· Total Number of People Groups - 516

· Number of Unreached People Groups - 427

· Language Spoken - Mandarin

· Major Religion - Non-Religious

· Persecution Index - 16



East Asia includes the countries of Mongolia, China, Korea and Japan. These countries have diverse cultures and people groups. Many have differing degrees of religious freedom and the persecution of Christians is challenging. In North Korea there is only one accepted religion, "Cheondogyo", the cult following of a deceased leader. The gospel is harshly repressed and hundreds of thousands of Christians have been killed or imprisoned. In South Korea, however, there is complete religious freedom and the Korean church is strong. China on the other hand detains more Christians than any other country in the world. The religious climate there has been strictly controlled for decades. But the church is growing and persecution only strengthens her. So as more and more Christians go to share the gospel in East Asia and as the church grows there, we must be diligent to pray for those God is using to spread the good news. And as countries in East Asia like China grow into economic giants, we must pray that God uses the church to influence the rest of the world for His glory and His name sake so that many can know him and many will put their faith in him. Pray then for our partner in East Asia as he ministers to those who have never heard the gospel.



· Pray that God would be glorified in East Asia and would open many doors for Tom and his family to share the gospel.

· Pray for the young men Tom disciples. Pray for their salvation and for many to know Christ through their lives.

· Tom is a physician and shares the gospel with those he cares for. Pray for open hearts for the patients he will encounter.

· Pray for Tom and his family as they live in an area that is hostile towards Christians. Pray for God to sustain them as they work, play and live out their lives for the sake of the gospel.

Pray for Ecuador

Pray For…Ecuador   (This info is from Brookhills website so some of the prayer requests are specific to their missionaries.... but am trying to stay on target to pray for different countries every week and this was an easy way to get the info. They have changed their approach and their website so I was not able to get the info for a few months....  but hope to be on target again.)

•Percentage of Evangelicals - 6.10%

•Human Development Rank - 72

•Number of Unreached People Groups - 12

•Population - 14,898,509

•Total Number of People Groups - 28

•Languages Spoken - 22

Ecuador's major exports are flowers, shrimp, oil and bananas. The gap between poor and rich has grown as a result of oil exploitation. Inflation, corruption, the 1995 war with Peru, and several natural disasters nearly bankrupted the country in 1999. Political instability since independence from Spain in 1830 has had a detrimental affect on the economy and people of Ecuador. Catholicism has had a profound affect on the culture, and as a result, many people are resistant to change despite freedom of religion. There are many indigenous tribes and group that live in the Andes mountains and the jungle of the Amazon who have yet to hear or who have had little exposure to the Gospel. In 1966 Henry and Dorothy Davis moved their young family to Quito, Ecuador to oversee churches in the mountain region of the country. One day after finding two boys living in a crawl space underneath the foundation of a church, the Lord opened this couple's eyes to the need of many orphans in their community. Almost fifty years later their ministry has grown and flourished with over 1,000 children raised in gospel-centered homes and educated to contribute in the work place. The Church at Brook Hills now has two families going to plant their lives and continue the legacy of discipleship and orphan care at the Houses of Happiness community. The Coes have been a vital part of The Church at Brook Hills for more than a decade. Ann works on staff with the communications team and their family has been an important part of making disciples in our faith family. Ann will work as a music teacher at a local International School in the area and Bob will help in the development and management of the orphanage and surrounding community. Chris and Vickie Nichols are also a vital part of the faith family at Brook Hills. Chris has served as the Executive Pastor at Brook Hills. He and Vickie both have positions at a local International School in Quito to serve the families and students of that community. Currently there are 110 children living at the orphanage, most are between the ages of 12-18.

•Pray for the children living at the Houses of Happiness orphanage to know Christ.

•Pray for God’s grace for the nine Nichols children in school both in the USA and in Ecuador.

•Pray for endurance as both families learn the local language in Ecuador.

•Pray for peace as the Coe family transitions to a new culture and as their children begin classes at a new school.

•Pray for unity of mind, heart and mission among their team and for God to give wisdom and faith as they expand the new ministry.

Community Group and other stuff

I am home for today and tomorrow and then off to Memphis for the week.  I have a few little bits of info so..

#1  Kristin had an afternoon of tests due to a mammogram that was inconclusive due to fibrous tissue.  After 3 mammograms and two ultrasounds they decided it was an assymetrical density with fat in the core...  "in the core" is what they could not see and "fat" was what they hoped to see.  So she will be rechecked in 6 months.  Thanks for your prayers.

#2  Community Group will meet at the Peters home (thank you so much) on June 3rd and we will EAT!!!!  I love that part.  We will get back to you on the menu after this week.... stay tuned.

#3  Wasn't the speaker great at Fellowship today? I was humbled and challenged.  We serve an awesome God!!!   Dan, you need to go online after this evening to hear Christopher Coleman.  Amazing story.... amazing God!!!!

#4   What you see below is yet another miracle of God.....  yes, that is Grayson running in a race for ECS, his high school.  God be praised!!!!!   Let's give Him all the praise and glory!!!!

A quote from C.S. Lewis

The Fuel for our Spirits


“He Himself is the fuel our spirits were designed to burn, or the food our spirits were designed to feed on. There is no other.” C.S. Lewis

Today as we worship our Savior, may He be our fuel, our very sustenance that gives us life. Let us feed on Him as we listen to the Word and apply it to our hearts.

Pray for Afghanistan

Afghanistan


Islamic Republic of Afghanistan
Asia
Geography   Area: 652,225 sq km
Dry and mountainous but with fertile valleys. This strategic land has been fought over by rival foreign empires for nearly three thousand years.
Population: 29,117,489 Annual Growth: 3.51%
Capital: Kabul
Urbanites: 24.8%

Peoples
Peoples: 76 (93% unreached) All peoples

Official language: Pashtu (used by 50% of population), Dari (Afghan Persian, used by 70%) Languages: 41 All languages

Religion
Largest Religion: Muslim
Christians .15
Muslim 99.85

Answer to Prayer

The ousting of the Taliban from power by the alliance of US-led Western troops and Afghan warlords opposed to the Taliban has come at a great cost. Following the overthrow of the Taliban, the Afghan people, particularly women, have gained new freedoms and opportunities. These still occur largely within and are limited by the framework of traditional Afghan culture.

Challenge for Prayer

The present political situation – a foreign military working with a national government that is trying to be both progressive and conservative – is far from ideal, but it is an improvement from the tyranny of the Taliban. The Taliban imposed a harsh brand of Islam on the nation and continue to be a threat to national stability and security. The power of the warlords and tribal leaders is greater than that of the government forces or the US military; currently, most of them side with the NATO/Loya Jirga entente. Pray that the Afghan government might serve and govern with humility and wisdom. Pray that the people of Afghanistan may experience genuine freedom and an improved quality of life. Pray also that attempts by insurgents and warlords to destabilize the country might be thwarted and that a settlement might be negotiated.

Happy Birthday and other gifts of His grace!

What a great time of discussion and prayer!!!   And a precious time of celebrating the Birthday Girls!!!   Susan Brown and Donna Peters!!!   We love you both so much.  You enrich our lives with the testimony of Jesus in your lives.

The cake!!!!!

The Birthday Girls!!!!!   Had to put in both of these pictures because of their smiles and how you can feel their love and friendship in these pictures.  God be praised!!!

And the candle blow!!!!!   Aren't they cute??

Okay....  I think that the night might have been summed up well by Susan Bowden who said that she felt like revival was what she saw in the prayer group (paraphrase all mine). Thanks for the great sharing in discussion and your insights....  and Susan Brown for your transparency!!!   We love you!   I feel like I am seeing God moving in all of our lives in a precious way.  May His Name Be Praised.  He is able to do far beyond what we could ever ask or think according to His power in us... To Him be the glory in the church... now and forevermore. (again my paraphrase).  Let's go before Him and ask Him to show us how to live in the Radical reality of scripture every day of our lives.  Again, To Him be the glory!!! 

REVIVAL IN LITTLE ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!

Yes, you read that right.... REVIVAL IN LITTLE ROCK.   
Yesterday I stopped by to visit with Dorothy Ludvigson... always interesting and enjoyable.... but this time she said, "I guess you heard what happened at Summit Church?"   AND she proceeded to tell me about how revival had broken out in the Sunday service in early April!!!!  Are you hearing this????  The pastor, Bill Elliff, was preaching on "quenching the Spirit and despising prophetic utterances"....  Bill paused in his message and a man got to his feet and said, "we must do this right now"....  Bill manned the mic and for three hours people came forward confessing sin... being baptized in their Sunday clothes..... interceding....  REVIVAL!!!!!!  

I came home and found the Summit Church blog that chronicles it all (won't need the print outs, Dorothy).  I am sending the site here  http://thesummitchurch.org/blogs/summit    Read from the bottom up and if this doesn't cause you to jump and shout.... well.... check your pulse.  Also, you will see that they are still having times of prayer at night and God is soooo moving among them. AND other churches in town are beginning to see revival.  GLORY TO THE KING!!!!  

I read today that the start of change in our lives is not just stopping what we are doing that is sin... but first recognizing the very holiness of God and being broken before Him... that is where revival and true change of heart happens.... not just behavioral changes.... but heart changes that give the Holy Spirit freedom to work in our lives.  Sooooo, Friends, that is the story .... revival which begins as we bow to Him.  Meet you at the throne... on our knees.... broken and worshipping Him.

Community Group Meeting this Friday, May 13th

Community Group will meet this Friday, May 13th at 7PM at the City Smiths.  We will discuss Chapters 8 and 9.... oh, baby....  if we can.  If you have lost or missplaced the questions for Chapter 8 please contact Jim Smith, and he will resend them.  I know that this is a large amount to read and discuss in one meeting, but we will see what we can accomplish AND have time to pray.

Oh, to Him be the glory... if you missed the announcement.... Tim Caldwell is the new youth pastor at Fellowship Bible Church.  He has been right here under their noses, and all that I have heard has been soooo encouraging. 

Look forward to seeing you on Friday night!!!!!  He is worthy of all of our praise!!!!! 

Next Community Group Meeting

Thanks again to Suzanne for hostessing the meeting on Friday night and to Jim Brown for leading the discussion.  Ah..... now on to the next meeting.  We will meet on May 13th at 7PM and will discuss both Chapters 8 AND 9.  Doing both together seemed to work well at the Men's Mentoring Meeting Jim attended this AM.  Jim has already sent us the questions so we can all get on it right away.  I pray that this study has given us all lots to think and pray about for our own lives.  I certainly have been impacted by it.  Location of our meeting is yet to be decided.

Also please continue to pray for Kloe who has had some very serious asthma issues.  She saw the doctor again today and the doctor added more medicines and changed some things.  We pray this will bring the attack to an end.
Also pray for Suzanne and Jerry Fuess, her dad.  He will be moving back to Presbyterian this Thursday if all goes well.  He is improving but is still unsteady on his feet so please pray that he does not have another fall... and that his confusion stops as he moves back into a room with his "things" around him.
AND for Jeremy as he continues physical therapy.  Strengthening his leg muscles seems to be helping his balance and some of the pain in his feet (ankles).  Also pray for him as he looks for God's wisdom for his future.
AND remember the Peters.... and Felicia's graduation.... and the Ludvigsons.... and give the glory to God for all He has done in keeping us all safe through the weather issues.... and for the capture and killing of Osama bin Laden... and the safety of the Navy Seals..... and so much more.  His Name Be Praised!!!!!

Community Group Meeting

After a month of all kinds of delays and postponed meetings.....  there will be a community group prayer meeting at Suzanne Patton's home this Friday night at 7PM.  Jim and I will not be able to be there, but Jim Brown will be leading the discussion of Chapter 7......  remember that chapter?????  Thanks so much, Jim B.  Well, please brush up on that chapter and come ready to discuss it, followed by a great time of prayer and praise.    Also PLEASE CONTACT SUZANNE IF YOU ARE COMING  OR IF YOU ARE NOT ABLE TO COME!!!!!!   Please!!!!!  That will help sooo much.  Thanks so much.

Blessed Easter!!!! Sunday's coming!!!!

Blessed Easter, dear friends!!!!  Jim and I took a couple days to go to Big Cedar on the spur of the moment.  Such a great time of rest and relaxation.  Thank you, Lord.  And now we are here at Easter!!!!  A time that we celebrate the amazing and unconditional love of God....  the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.....  He died to set us free!!!   I pray that we never forget the price paid for our lives.... that we might live in newness of life... that we might live eternally with Him.... that we might know Life Abundantly.  The chains are gone.... We've been set free!!!!!  Praise His Holy Name!!!

I found this clip of part of a sermon by S.M. Lockeridge.  It is part of his message with pictures from the Passion (movie) and is titled, "Sunday's Coming".   Friday to Sunday.... may it cause us to praise Him and recognize that even in our lives.... Sunday is coming!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tn94B3GHcjY

Community Group AND Fearfully and Wonderfully Made

Well, I am home!!!!.... and alive and well and praising Him!!!!

First order of business is that we will NOT have Community Group Meeting this Friday due to it being Easter weekend. Sorry that I have been so out of the loop and didn't see that coming.  Stay tuned for when and where we will meet in May.  Thanks for your patience and for carrying on while I was gone and Jim was entertaining my "birding" family members.  Also thanks for the communication that I received from you all with words of encouragment and info and for having lunch for the Peters at the Peters.  Hated to miss it but loved seeing you all being the Body of Christ and being led by the Lord.  Not sure that made any sense.... I am pretty tired but very blessed.
Now here are some pictures of  "Jack", the newest member of the Dukes family.  I had so many that I wanted to include but these will show a little of what the 2 weeks were like.

Here's Jack.... a miracle!!!  More on that another time. Fearfully and wonderfully made!!!!

And Jack with his two year old brother, Erik Daniel. One of four boys that adore their new brother.

Erik Daniel and Elijah (below) both contracted Strep throat after Jack was born.  Elijah was very sick for 4 days with high fevers, but was well by his birthday celebration on Saturday.

And this is daddy after sleeping with Jack in a chair all night.  He also is that same man that played "Jesus" in the Easter Pageant on Saturday and Sunday night with full beard and long hair. (note the blood on his hands from being "nailed" to the cross.)  But the truth is this is how we all looked by this past weekend. (minus the bloody hands). Soooooo please pray for Erin this week as she takes care of the boys and homeschools without her "helper and baby nurse".... that would be me. 

All in all it was an amazing and beautiful week of seeing God work in this situation.  All glory to Him!!!!!



update on Jeb Upson

from Lori Upson via Kathi Oberby
Here is an update from Lori about Jeb...


Just got back from a follow up doctor's visit. Jeb's counts are looking better than last week and he's lost 5 pounds! (This is probably fluid that he has been retaining and is a good thing). The doctor was encouraged but says it is too soon to determine if he's responding to the prednisone. We feel the power of prayer has brought him a long way from last week thanks to you.

Diet is not as restrictive and he's happy. He looks better and is acting better.

He has a touch of pneumonia from all the extra fluid but it is being treated for it early. He is on antibiotics for this and it wasn't a surprise to the doctor based on his underlying condition.

Long term prognosis still looks sunny but he will be under a doctor's care until late teens. Still many unanswered questions...a waiting game. But we are grateful for all God's gifts!

Community Group Meeting April 8

Community Group meeting originally scheduled for April 8th is canceled; we will still try to get together on April 22nd. We may try to do two chapters of Radical at that time so we don't fall too far behind. I'll let everyone know more later. As I am typing, John Andrew or Jack, as we will call him, is on his way home with his Mom and Dad. He is doing well, even though he arrived a bit earlier than we were all expecting. I talked to Suzanne this morning, and she said her Dad is still recovering nicely. Praise God! Thank you all for contributing to the blog, calling, and emailing to keep everyone informed on how to pray about all that has been happening in our CG over the last few weeks. It was a beautiful example of the body of Christ at work. Keep praying, and keep communicating needs and praises.

Mr. Jerry - Suzanne's Dad

Dear Pray-ers:
Short update on Mr. Jerry:
Still at stv rm 2026. Has pacemaker installed and it is working well. He still has a great deal of pain associated with the three broken ribs. His 95th birthday is tomorrow, Monday April 4!! Suzanne thinks Nicholas is going to come visit him tomorrow !!! He is on oral lasix to get his lungs cleared up (no iv's now). Suzanne reports today he is doing much better. When Donna and I saw him this afternoon he was in good spirits and very talkative. Praise God for His mercy and healing. Jerry wants badly to get out of the hospital and go back to Presyp Village!
Please continue to keep him and Suzanne "prayed up."

Erin and Erik's Baby

from Sherry:
Jim and Linda are on their way to Erin's. Erin thinks they will induce labor this evening - the doctors conferred and all but one said he would induce this evening - she didn't say the baby was distressed but thought the baby weighed about 6 lbs - hope this is correct - will let everyone know whenever I hear further -

WOW - GLORY - ONCE AGAIN WE ARE PRAYING FERVENTLY - PRAY FOR ERIN AND BABY/FAMILY - FOR SUZANNE AND FATHER - AND DONNA AND ERNIE

GLORY BE TO OUR GOD WHO IS SOVERIGHN AND LOVELY AND NEVER LEAVES OUT SIDE - MAY YOU BE FILLED WITH PEACE AS YOU GO FORWARD

GOD'S BLESSINGS!!!!!!!

Suzanne's Dad

Suzanne's dad, Jerry Fuess, is in St. Vincent with congestive heart failure and a possible urinary infection.  He also has had some falls recently and has some broken ribs.  He needs to have a pacemaker for his heart, but there is some question as to whether Medicare will cover it.  Please pray for Jerry.  May God superintend all that happens to him and be with his doctors.... giving them wisdom and insight into all of his needs.  Also pray for Suzanne that God would give her strength, wisdom and peace during this time.  Also pray for her as she ministers at the DDC (prison) tonight..... that lives will be changed for eternity and that His love would shine through Suzanne as she ministers there.

Marie is home with the Lord

Well, God is good and today Marie, Donna's mother, is in the presence of the Lord.  Her final exit from this earth was her glorious entry into His Presence.  Can you say... "Glory!!!"   I can imagine her dancing and singing (Donna said that she had a great singing voice) to the Lord.  His grace and mercy are boundless and perfect.  Praise His Name.   

Do pray for the whole family as they walk through this process. May the Spirit be their guide and their peace.  As grateful as we are at the Homegoing of those we love... we still miss them in our lives here.  Please especially remember Lloyd, her husband, at this time.   Grace, peace, strength and an amazing sense of His presence.

We will keep you posted on any ways we can help and with funeral arrangments.

Donna's mom, Marie

Donna called to say that they are her mom, Marie, will be going into Hospice care this afternoon.  More details will follow.  Please pray for the whole process and for peace for all of them.   May God give them more than we could ever ask or think in strength and peace through His Spirit.

Prayer Request Upson Family

CG:
the leader at Felicia's homeschool coop shared this prayer request. Some of you may know the Upsons (who used to be at Fellowship). Please pray for them.

Hey Sweet Co-op Families,

Would you please add to your prayers Jeb Upson and the Upson Family. Jeb is quite sick and has been for about 10 days.
Lori will be taking him to meet a specialist at Children's Hospital tomorrow morning where he will also be having an ultrasound of his kidneys. At this point, there is a pre-diagnosis of a fairly common (in boys) syndrome. I won't go into details here - but it is not life threatening.
Please pray that Jeb's kidneys will be healed by the touch of the Lord's hand and that his health, energy and appetite will return. If the Lord chooses not to do a miraculous healing, please ask for His guidance for the doctors and a clear and definitve answer.
Also, pray for Lori and Steve and siblings. Needless to say, they are worried and need the Lord's peace that surpasses all understanding.
There are no other needs at this time. If some arise, I will let you know.
Thanks so very much!
Kathi

Com Group and more

Just to make sure there is no confusion or less confusion than I may have stirred in your mind.... our next Com Group meeting will be on April 8th at the City Smiths at 7PM.  We are discussing Lesson 7 and then will go to prayer and praise.  Glory to His Name!!!!!!   (Jim sent you the questions... if you misplaced them let us know).  The April 1 and 15 weren't as good for some of you. 

Also keep remembering Marie, Donna's mom.  She is still in need of our prayers although she is home.  Prayers to be comfortable, help from healthcare people, help for Donna when she needs to talk to the Dr. for meds, etc.  Also pray for Donna and Ernie as they have a full... FULL life right now.  Continue to pray for Felicia.

AND....  Erin had a sonogram that showed a very CUTE baby.... but her amniotic fluid level was low normal... and the baby is smaller than usualy.  (Yes, Donna... you are thinking girl, right?) ... but the heart rate is even lower than it has normally been.  They are doing another sonogram this Thursday to see if the fluid level is going down or ????  Please pray..

AND my workshop went well, Praise His Name!!!!  Thanks for your prayers.

AND Jeremy... continue to pray as he goes to Physical Therapy this week ... that the pain will subside.  God we are crying out to you...  Sherry and Jerry

AND Suzanne's group at the DCC in Pine Bluff.
AND.... Dorothy and Dan...  continue to hold them up.

April CG Meetings

We will meet in April on the 8th and 22nd. Details later on where and what time. Linda's Precept leading in Kansas City is going well. Enjoy the rain.

My Sister-in-law Carol Smith

Carol had 20 lymph nodes removed, two of which were cancerous. She will undergo radiation treatment for six weeks, five days a week. Her spirit is good. Please continue to hold her up in your prayers.

Marie update

Donna's mom, Marie, is still in the Heart Hospital.  She had a bad day yesterday and they had thought she might die.  Donna and Ernie were able to leave the hospital last night at 10:30PM.   Please pray for them.

question, prayer request, and info

Your esteemed administrator with NO admisitrative skills has made yet another mistake.  Who me???  Yes, me!!!!   I scheduled our next meeting for April 8th followed by one on the 22nd..... hmmm!!!!!   Actually it should have been April 1st and 15th and the 29th.  Sooooo what sayeth Thee????  The latter makes it every other week.

Prayer request for Marie, Donna's mom, who is going home tomorrow AM.  Keep her in prayer and Donna and Ernie as they navigate all these waters,etc.   Is 43:2

Also pray for our sister-in-law, Carol.  They did find out that the lymph nodes were positive for cancer, AND the spot that they biopsied and pronounced benign when sent in was indeed cancer.  She sees the doctor on Wednesday.

My apologies to you for not wanting to go to Sageworks last night AND not encouraging one of you to go (you know who you are).  Dennis Rainey brought his A game and hit it out of the park.  A lot of it reminded me of Friday night's discussion.  If you get a chance, listen to it on Sageworks website.  Attendance was sparse at best.  They know that they have scheduled too many events too close together.

Marie update

Prayer groupies. Donna's mom is in a room now at the heart hospital. She is on lasiks (sp?) To help drain fluids and has some elevated levels of something in her blood they are going to lab for info for DR to review tomorrow. She is now breathing better and resting well. Blood pressure is low and heart rate high right now. So keep up the prayers. Thanks

E. J. Peters
epeters777@traffic-engineers.com
PETERS & ASSOCIATES ENGINEERS, INC.
5507 Ranch Drive - Suite 205
Little Rock, AR 72223
Voice: 501-868-3999 Ext. 101
Fax: 501-868-9710

Donna's mom

Prayer partners
We are at the Heart Hospital with Donna's mom. She is having extreme shortness of breath and was unable to lay down or sleep last night. She is back with a doctor now. Please pray for Marie. Thank you all !!!

E. J. Peters
epeters777@traffic-engineers.com
PETERS & ASSOCIATES ENGINEERS, INC.
5507 Ranch Drive - Suite 205
Little Rock, AR 72223
Voice: 501-868-3999 Ext. 101
Fax: 501-868-9710

Another prayer request

Donna's mom is not breathing well and is having frequest chest discomfort.  Donna is on her way over there with some medicine.  Please pray for this family!!!!!!!

Please pray for the Peters

Please pray for the Peters!!!!   They are having some issues with Felicia.  The enemy has come in like a flood to steal, kill, and destroy and to remove peace from their household.  BUT greater is He that is in us than he that is in the world.  
Pray for wisdom for Donna and Ernie.... and may Felicia be repentant followed by a close walk with the Lord.  Our Lord reigns... May the blood of Christ cover this situation.  He is able to accomplish all that concerns them.

Pray for Alexa Ross

Praying Friends, please pray for Alexa Ross, a friend of Felicia's who was in a terrible car wreck this morning. Alexa is in ICU, I do not know where nor her condition at this time. Alexa has a history of making bad lifestyle choices and she needs prayer for salvation and for healing.
See the news article below for details on the wreck:

Driver killed, juveniles hurt in Pulaski County wreck

By Gavin Lesnick
Thursday, March 17, 2011
A single-vehicle wreck in Pulaski County early Thursday killed the 18-year-old driver and hurt four juvenile passengers, including three whose injuries were described as extensive.
Police say marijuana and unlabeled prescription bottles were found in the car.
Anthony Holloway, of Alexander, was pronounced dead at the scene and the four passengers - whose names were not released - were transported to local hospitals after the 3:16 a.m. wreck. Their conditions were not immediately known.
The Pulaski County Sheriff's Office says Holloway was driving 1994 Honda Accord east in the 24700 block of Lawson Road when the car crossed the westbound lane, ran off the road and struck a bridge culvert.
Two of the juvenile passengers were ejected from the vehicle, landing in a small creek under the bridge. A third passenger was trapped in the car and had to be extricated by firefighters. Those passengers had extensive injuries, authorities said, adding the precise extent was unclear.
A fourth passenger, who was sitting in the front seat, had only minor injuries.

Prayer and Praise

Susan Bowden's Blood Pressure is up, and she has been to the doctor to get it down.  (this is per Susan Brown who is in contact with her.).  Please pray for her and for the doctor.   God is our Healer.

Also a praise from Suzanne Patton which she will share more about on Friday night.  Jennifer is doing better (again more on that Friday night)   and she and her husband seem to be doing well..  AND Grayson is beginning to make great strides in his recovery.  Praise the Name of the Lord.  He is our only HOPE a sure HOPE and anchor.

AND Japan....  Japan.... Japan.   Please pray for the furtherance of the gospel in the middle of this difficult time.  For the missionaries, Father, be their strength and hope.... and for all the mothers and fathers and children of Japan. 

Carol Smith our sister in law

Today is the day for Carol's breast surgery.... lumpectomy unless they find cancer in the tissues around the lump.  Please pray for her.
My b/p is going down slowly but had to use the prednisone last night..... long story.... but I am fine.  God is good and I am grateful.  Please continue to pray and give thanks.
See you all at Jim and Susan's on Friday night.  God be praised.

Community Group meeting 3/18

Well, not sure where to start, but thank to all who knew and prayed as my B/P went back up after surgery.... to staggering heights.  God is good, and we figured out it was the Prednisone that I was putting in my eyes (both of them) that was the culprit.  Now two days since the I stopped the Prednisone, I am a little red eyed (since that the purpose of the cortisone was to keep the inflammation out of the eyes) but my B/P is going down.   Thanks to God and you all for your prayers.

Community Group will be held at The Browns at 7PM on Friday night 3/18.  Sorry, Suzanane, I misread the name on the list... but you will get your turn.  AND Thanks to the Browns for hosting us.  Please let us know if you will be able to attend or NOT be able to attend.  The discussion is on Chapter 6 of Radical... and we will have a great time of prayer and praise.  You all come!!!

 And another quote...  Just something to think about. 


"Self-denial is different than taking up one's cross.
To take up his cross is the process of crucifying the sinful passions of the flesh.
Self-denial is the deliberate curtailing of healthy passions and desires for the sake of pursuing Jesus harder

Pray for.... and a quote

I used to use a website that listed a nation to pray for every week so that by the end of the year we had prayed for every nation.  Well, their site changed and now I found another site but it does not give as much info on the country.  This week it is Bolivia.  Please pray for Bolivia AND let's also pray for Tokyo, Japan since they had a huge earthquake and a tsunami during the our night.  The sight of that wall of water covering the earth is almost unbelievable.   May God use this to bring many to Christ and protect and use the missionaries in this time.  May His name be glorified in all the earth.

Now as I promised... another quote...  (I know you all are loving this especially since you may have seen my inability to get one of the quotes in a correct visual pattern a few days back.... it gave you joy and laughter, didn't it???) But first.... I went to the Ash Wednesday Service at church which reminded me of my youth in the Lutheran Church.  The symbolism took on life as we had ashes put on our foreheads and took communion at the foot of the cross.  Yes, just symbolism... but powerful in helping me remember the price paid for my life. He gave His life on a tree... the Son of God.  Amazing love.  It reminded me to be ready to give away my life every day to the One who can use it in the lives of others since #1 My life is His. (not the part, but the whole of it)  #2  He lives in me. Therefore when I "go" I have Him to give others... His life, His money, His heart, His...    Hmmm!!!  And now the quote.

Our happiness comes, too, not in the having but in the handing over.

Give your life away in exchange for many lives, give away your blessings to multiply blessings, give away so that many might increase, and do it all for the love of God.

If I messed up... please remember that I am writing with a patch over one eye.  Excuses, excuses.

Home and doing well

I am home from my #2 cataract surgery and doing well..... AND when I got there my B/P was high.... sky high...  higher than the week before high... do you know what I mean???  Then I settled in, prayed, relaxed, and it kept going down and down and in the surgery it was NORMAL!!!!!  (last week it stayed high throughout the surgery.)   This must be nerves that I am honestly NOT aware of but are there anyway.  Thanks so much for your prayers!  I so appreciate them. Told the anesthetist that the lower B/P was absolutely God and the prayers of the saints.  Thanks again.

A quote and prayer request

First, don't forget to pray for my surgery tomorrow.... Right eye.  My B/P was high last time and remained high throughout the procedure.  Since I had just been to the doctor 2 weeks before and it was normal then... I am a little puzzled, but ask your prayers.
Also our sister-in-law Carol was supposed to have a lumpectomy for a cancerous mass in her breast.  It was postponed because they found another spot behind it and biopsied it yesterday.  Her surgery should be on Friday now.   If the spot is cancer I am pretty sure they will remove her entire breast, etc.

Now the quote.... just couldn't resist it since we are starting the Lenten Season today.

"A follower of Jesus expresses

                                                               an extravagant humility

                                                               at an extravagant cost

                                                              for an extravagant Savior."

-                                                              Rev. Clay Holland
                                                                   John 12:1-8



A missionaries words....

This below is from a blog that I read called "From the Unpaved Road".  It is written by a missionary to the Sudan.  All that is in black print is from her blog.

Missions is about romance. It is not about strategy or methods or theology. Not ultimately. It is about romance. It is about Jesus winning for Himself a Bride from every tribe and tongue and language and people and nation. It is about finding her even while she sleeps in bars and brothels and bringing her home.

Can I say it again?

MISSIONS IS ABOUT ROMANCE. Not results or numbers or logic or reason. If it ever stops being about romance, I stop too. Stop until I find where I lost touch with Him. Only when I am in the center of this love story of His, do I have anything to offer.

My prayer for you: that YOU would be swept off your feet into the romance of HIS Good News right where you are reading. May He show YOU in this moment how wildly YOU too are loved.
AMEN!!!!!!

[Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests] Willshire's

Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests has posted a new item, 'Willshire's'

Pray for Rose and Roland Willshire as they attend to Rose's mother, Mary Wilson.
Mary had a stroke and the bleeding continues with little hope of containment.
She is at Baptist Hospital, room 713.

You may view the latest post at
http://fellowshipsageworks.com/prayer/2011/03/willshires/

You received this e-mail because you asked to be notified when new updates are
posted.
Best regards,
FSAdmin
rod@amdesign.com

Community Group rewind

Look at this happy couple!!!!!  Jim and Susan Brown were celebrating their anniversary last night, and we were so blessed to celebrate it with them.  Note the happy smiles.... evidence of God in their lives and a blessed marriage.  Praise His Name!!  And here some pics of the happy couple and the yummy cake that Donna and Ernie provided for the occaision.  Thanks so much to the Peters!!!



Tonight was full of good sharing and discussion AND prayer. We all have so much to be thankful for even in the middle of trials.  Let's continue to lift our praise and our petitions to the One that is Maker of Heaven and Earth and able to do all things.   We wait with eager anticipation to see what He will do.   Thanks also again for your prayers for me.  We love you all... so much. 

Update and quote

Well, I am off to the doctor in a few minutes, but wanted to thank you all for your prayers. He will remove the patch/bandage... and we shall see what things look like. Hmmm!!!   The procedure appeared to go extremely well... at least from my end, which was a peaceful, grateful place in Him.  More on that tonight..... Community Group meeting at City Smiths (so named by the Country Smiths), for discussion on Chapter 5 and prayer.  Dan please bring us an update on Dorothy.  If you can't make it please send me one. 

Now here is a quote from C.S. Lewis that I saw somewhere today.

“Good things as well as bad, you know, are caught by a kind of infection. If you want to get warm, you must stand near the fire: if you want to be wet, you must get in the water. If you want joy, power, peace, eternal life, you must get close to, or even into, the thing that has them. (GOD).... They are a great fountain of energy and beauty spurting up at the very centre of reality (of Him). . . . Once a man is united to God, how could he not live forever? Once a man is separated from God, what can he do but wither and die?” - from Mere Christianity

Pray for excellent vision

Hey group. Linda is having eye surgery tomorrow morning (and again next Thursday). Pray for calm, no pain, and excellent vision after. I can see the pillar of light !! God Bless !!

E. J. Peters
epeters777@traffic-engineers.com
PETERS & ASSOCIATES ENGINEERS, INC.
5507 Ranch Drive - Suite 205
Little Rock, AR 72223
Voice: 501-868-3999 Ext. 101
Fax: 501-868-9710

[Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests] Bereavement - Dennis Lowe

Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests has posted a new item, 'Bereavement -
Dennis Lowe'

Dennis Lowe - DOD: 2/28/11 (brother: Doug [Patty] Lowe)  Arrangements are
pending in Russellville. 

You may view the latest post at
http://fellowshipsageworks.com/prayer/2011/03/bereavement-dennis-lowe/

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[Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests] Bereaveent - Fran Pope

Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests has posted a new item, 'Bereaveent - Fran
Pope'

Fran Pope DOD:2/26/11 (husband: Charles Pope)  A memorial service is Tuesday,
March 1, at 2:00 p.m. at Stephens Dearman Funeral Home in Monticello. 
Visitation is prior to the service.

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Updates

Glory Hallelujah!!!!   Donna's mom is home and doing better although she is very weak.  Please continue to pray for her.

AND Dorothy got to go home, too, and she is feeling pretty good today.  She will have a spinal tap on Thursday, and after the test she will have to lie on her back for 4-6 hours.  So she will be there a large part of the day.  Please continue to pray for her .... AND for Dan who still is not feeling well.  They really need our prayers. 

Don't forget the others in the group who can use your prayers... plus Joshua (8), our grandson, who broke his collar bone on Thursday.  He is in a brace and pretty uncomfortable but is a quite a tough guy.  Went to the High School semi state Bball finals on Friday although he was in a lot of pain that day.... just couldn't stand to miss it.  :-)

This from Dan

This past week has been a crazy one. I came down with my annual case of sinus infection and lost 2 and a half days of work. I am still trying to get over the stuff. Mother was experiencing small dizzy spells all week. It culminated with a real bad dizzy spell along with vomiting all over herself in front of dad while visiting him last Saturaday, 02/19/11. She was taken to Baptist ER by way of MEMS. She has been experiencing dizzy spells off and on since entering the hospital. Call me for the details. I am just not feeling up to writing out all the details. Thank you for listening.


Just be in prayer that there is nothing serious. Her spirit is quite low. She is just sick of being sick.

Dorothy is in room 723 at Baptist. 
Dan also asked about you, Donna and Ernie and Donna's mom...  I am sure he is praying for you.  Please pray for Dorothy and Dan, and Donna's mom...

Just in case you wondered

Just in case you wondered.....  the reason that I have not put up a new country to pray for is that the site that I get that info from has not changed the country.  So we can continue to pray for the United Arab Emirates (which I still can't say) or pray for them AND Libya, Bahrain, Egypt, etc. 

A young friend told me yesterday that a friend of hers dreamed that God was raining fire on the world.... can I get an Amen???  Actually I am not sure what is going on but I do know the One who is in control, and I wait with eager expectation to see what He is going to do in all this. AND I think of 2 Peter 3:1-13... and then "Therefore, beloved, since you look for these things, be diligent to be found by Him in peace, spotless and blameless, and regard the patience of our Lord as salvation... through v 18 But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  To Him be the glory both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.

Update Donna's mother

Dr. Henry, the cardiologist, came to see Donna's mother and said he is hoping she'll be ok to go home by the weekend. Donna thinks that means "Friday".  Donna also said that she's off pain meds for the sciatica so we will see if God performed a miracle. 

Thanks for your prayers for them all.  Please continue to pray!

Prayer request.... Donna's mother

Donna had to take her mom to The Heart Hospital at 2AM this morning with congestive heart failure.  She is still in the emergency room at 5:30AM and will be admitted to the hospital when they can get her a room. Donna says that it is a very busy place.  Please pray for this whole situation....  her mother's health, a room in the hospital, and strength and wisdom for Donna and Ernie and Lloyd.

[Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests] Deanne Goodrich

Fellowship Sageworks Prayer Requests has posted a new item, 'Deanne Goodrich'

Deanne is in the hospital undergoing testing for symptons that began on Friday.
Pray for clear diagnosis.

You may view the latest post at
http://fellowshipsageworks.com/prayer/2011/02/deanne-goodrich/

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info from Michael J. Hufnagel

From: MHufnagel@maverickusa.com

Subject: Items from this evening
To: jsmith1885@sbcglobal.net
Date: Friday, February 18, 2011, 10:31 PM

Jerry Sittser's book is called: A Grace Disguised- How the Soul Grows Through Loss

Sermon series coming up after the 6 weeks on the Tabernacle:

4 week series on Doors- Using the illustration of different doors like the Garage Door (Community), Closet Door (Prayer/ Intimacy) , Storage Door (Forgiveness/ Hidden Sin) and ending with the Front Door on Easter (Salvation)

4 week series on Beautiful: Romans 10:15 "Beautiful are the feet of those who bring the Good News."

8 week series on Walking Wisely: Selected Proverbs Scriptures

Michael J. Hufnagel

Fw: JEFFREY DEAN PRAYER ALERT!

From: Jeffrey Dean Ministries
To: E. J. Peters
Sent: Mon Feb 21 08:57:38 2011
Subject: JEFFREY DEAN PRAYER ALERT!

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Jeffrey Dean eNews
February 2011

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Dear Friend,

In two days, I begin a three-week, five-state run, with the opportunity to stand before more than 5,000 teens and adults throughout Texas, Michigan, Utah, Georgia and Illinois. I will be speaking in more than 17 public and private schools, at 5 churches, three Plugged-in Parenting events, and at two teen rallies, including an evangelistic event at an outdoor football stadium in Bowie, TX.
Please pray for:

Every teen who hears my message that does not know Jesus as Lord to accept Him as Savior.
Teens who are struggling with eating disorders, addictions, anger, suicidal thoughts, depression, cutting, impure thoughts and actions, and more to surrender it all to God.
Safety in travel to/from each location.
No flight delays and/or weather issues.
My family during our time of separation.
Favor with public school students, staff and administrators.
Please consider printing this itinerary and posting in a high-traffic area of your home as a reminder to pray:

February 23 Bowie, TX
February 24-25 Dallas, TX
February 26-28 Tomball, TX
March 1-3 St. George, UT
March 4-5 Naperville, IL
March 6-9 Hartwell, GA
March 11-13 Evart, MI
March 14 Cadillac, MI

Thank you for praying for Jeffrey Dean Ministries. I can't wait to share with you in a few weeks all that God did! Have a great week,
Jeffrey
Jeffrey Dean Ministries 615.477.3021 <http://e2ma.net/go/9104564313/3451171/103329670/39051/goto:http://www.jeffreydean.com> jeffreydean.com <http://e2ma.net/go/9104564313/3451171/103329671/39051/goto:http://www.jeffreydean.com>
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update from Dan

Linda,


 I didn’t sleep as well last night as the night before and today I will need to work the whole day. This all said, I must bow out tonight again. I will really miss the fellowship.

Prayer requests:

That we the Church would truly repent of our sins and allow the Holy Spirit full reign of our lives

Revival

Quick and full recovery from this “bug”

Mother: She has experienced 3 dizzy spells this week with the worst one last night. These deal with the inner ear and are not related to stroke symptoms(Praise The Lord) but the threat of falling and breaking bones is increased. I will be calling the Ear Specialist today to let them know and will probably be getting her in for a check up asap. Right now just pray that she will not fall.

I am in the process of changing anti-depressants. The one I am on now is fighting with my anti-seizure medication. Pray that the new one will be friendly with the other drugs I take.

Thank you for all your prayers.
Dan

Prayer request

Jim's brother who has emphysema is in the hospital with difficulty breathing and is also coughing up a lot of thick mucous.  He is on antibiotics and breathing treatments.  At the sam time his wife, Carol, was diagnosed with breast cancer yesterday.  She is the one that we prayed for when she had an acoustic neuroma and a heart attack... all within the last year and a half.  She has a stress test for her heart tomorrow that she is requesting prayer for.... and an MRI on Tuesday for the cancer.  Please, please pray for them.... first for the stress test tomorrow.  She is experiencing some neck pain and other symptoms that concern her.  She is a believer and in good spirits.

thanks... see you tomorrow night.
His,
linda

Community Group Meeting Friday Night

What a great night of discussion, prayer, and praise we had on Friday night.  Your insights and comments in the discussion were challenging and thought provoking.  Thanks so much for your participation.   Then on Sunday I felt like Brandon reiterated a lot of what we talked about on Friday night.... the Holy Spirit... the church building being used extravagantly by God on Saturday night...  the assurance of the presence of God in us every day.... the seemingly more explicit invitation for anyone to come to the "living room" for prayer, just to talk, or for ministry... and much more. (I know that they always mention that, but it seemed to stick out to me this Sunday.)  And what a great message and beginning to an exciting sermon series.  We are blessed.  Dan and Susan Bowden, you were MISSED. 

NOW.... we will continue that journey with God in our little group on Friday night at our home (City Smith's) for a Chili EAT, discussion of Chapter 4 (Jim sent out the questions), and a time of prayer.   Mike and Suzanne Hufnagel will be joining us for the evening.  Please let me know if you will NOT be coming as I need to make sure the food and the table set up is in place.  I am planning now that you all will be coming.... and so look forward to our time together in Him.

Prayer Request

Hebrews tells us that we can come before the throne of God for grace to help in time of need!!!!!  So here is another opportunity... a need that we can carry to the throne.  Felicia Peters is going through a hard time and really needs our prayers!!!   And please pray that God will give Donna and Ernie wisdom and guidance through this time.   Saints, let's meet at the throne on their behalf....  on our knees calling out to Him.
 
This is a quote I read recently.  "The battle for our children's lives is waged on our knees.  When we don't pray it is like sitting on the sidelines watching our children in a war zone getting shot at from every angle.  When we pray we are in the battle alongside them appropriating God's power on their behalf.  Using the Word in our prayers is a powerful weapon against which NO enemy can prevail."   Nothing is too difficult for our God.   He IS our glory... the lifter of our heads... and He will accomplish all the concerns us.  There is NONE like our GOD...  NONE.   He is mighty to save and to work His will.   Glory to His Name!!!!!

Community Group will meet on Friday night at 7PM at the city Smiths (Jim and Linda).  We will discuss Chapter 3 of Radical... and lift our voices in prayer and praise to HIM.