Animated Jigsaw Puzzle

Do you like jigsaw puzzles? How about one that has a "moving" picture? Try it out at: http://www.brl.ntt.co.jp/people/hara/fly.swf. It's challenging & fun.

Happy Valentines Day!

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (NKJV)

1 Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.
2 And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.
3 And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body £to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.
4 Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up;
5 does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil;
6 does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth;
7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8 Love never fails. But whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge, it will vanish away.
9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part.
10 But when that which is perfect has come, then that which is in part will be done away.
11 When I was a child, I spoke as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child; but when I became a man, I put away childish things.
12 For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part, but then I shall know just as I also am known.
13 And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love.

John 3:16-17 (NKJV)

16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.
17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Hudson Interviewed for Podcast

I interviewed Dr. Harold Hudson (pictured at left) on Saturday for the February edition of "Walking with the Giant". The interview focuses on his ministry during last month's tragedy in Union County where seven children from one family were killed in an accident involving a car, school bus and semi truck. The children attended Dr. Hudson's church, Fellowship Baptist Church in Raiford, Florida.

The February edition of the Podcast should be available by the end of this week.

(Photo by Jon M. Fletcher)

Barber Shop Illustration

A man went to a barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation. They talked about so many things and various subjects.

When they eventually touched on the subject of God, the barber said, "I don't believe that God exists."

"Why do you say that?" asked the customer.

"Well, you just have to go out in the street to realize that God doesn't exist. Tell me, if God exists, would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned children? If God existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can't imagine a loving God who would allow all of these things," said the barber.

The customer thought for a moment, but didn't respond because he didn't want to start an argument. The barber finished his job and the customer left the shop. Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and an untrimmed beard. He looked dirty and unkempt.

The customer turned back and entered the barber shop again and he said to the barber, "You know what? Barbers do not exist."

"How can you say that," asked the surprised barber. "I am here, and I am a barber. And I just
worked on you!"

"No!" the customer exclaimed. "Barbers don't exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beards, like that man outside."

"Ah, but barbers DO exist! What happens is, people do not come to me," the barber replied.

"Exactly!" affirmed the customer. "That's the point, God, too, DOES exist! What happens, is, people don't go to Him and do not look for Him. That's why there's so much pain and suffering in the world."

Weekend Services

Tomorrow (Saturday) night I will be speaking at a youth Valentine banquet at Friendship Baptist Church in Live Oak, Florida.

On Sunday morning (11am) I will be preaching at Lake Forest Baptist Church, 5121 East University Ave., Gainesville, Florida. A luncheon will follow the morning worship service. I will also speak during the luncheon and share a brief video from our 2004 Ghana, West Africa mission trip.

Please be in prayer for these services.

New River Baptist Added to Schedule

I will be preaching in supply for Pastor Jason Reid at New River Baptist Church on Sunday, March 5, 2006. The services will begin at 11am & 6pm. New River Baptist Church is located at 16703 SW 144th Ave. in Brooker, Florida.

Raisin' the Dead

A funeral service is being held for a woman who has just passed away. At the end of the service, the pall bearers are carrying the casket out when they accidentally bump into a wall, jarring the casket. They hear a faint moan. They open the casket and find that the woman is actually alive! She lives for ten more years, and then dies.

Once again, a ceremony is held, and at the end of it, the pall bearers are again carrying out the casket. As they carry the casket towards the door, the husband cries out, "Watch that wall!"

Miscellaneous Ponderings?

• How important does a person have to be before they are considered assassinated instead of just murdered?
• How come we choose from just two people for President and fifty for Miss America?
• Why is "bra" singular and "panties" plural?
• Can a hearse carrying a corpse drive in the carpool lane?
• Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? They're both dogs!
• Is Disney World the only people trap operated by a mouse?

Behavioral Ponderings?

• Can you cry under water?
• Why is it that people say they "slept like a baby" when babies wake up like every two hours?
• Why do people pay to go up tall buildings and then put money in binoculars to look at things on the ground?
• Why do doctors leave the room while you change? They're going to see you naked anyway.
• When your photo is taken for your driver's license, why do they tell you to smile? If you are stopped by the police and asked for you license, are you going to be smiling?
• Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him for a car ride; he sticks his head out the window?

"Super" Party

My home church, First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, will hold a Super Bowl Party tomorrow night (Sunday, February 5th). We "kick-off" at 6pm in the sanctuary, we then move down the "field" (hallway) to our fellowship hall for "tail-gating", there will be plenty of food! Everyone will have a great seat for the big game with a big screen TV.

Our half-time show will feature Head Coach Tony Dungy of the Indianapolis Colts sharing his testimony via video.

Come join the fun and excitement!!!


First Baptist Church of Lake Butler is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida.

Photo courtesy of Indianapolis Colts website.

I Dare You!

The devotion for today (February 3, 2006) in "Our Daily Bread" features a great illustration. You can view it at: http://www.rbc.org/odb/odb.shtml.

Musical/Theatrical Ponderings?

• Why are you IN a movie, but you're ON TV?
• If Jimmy cracks corn and no one cares, why is there a stupid song about him?
• What do you call male ballerinas?
• Do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?
• Why did you just try singing the two songs above?

It Is No Secret

What do Carl Stuart Hamblen, Billy Graham & John Wayne have in common?

Click here http://www.snopes.com/religion/hamblen.htm and then it will no longer be a secret to you.

Praise the Lord

There was a little old lady, who every morning. Stepped onto her front porch, raised her arms to the sky, and shouted: "PRAISE THE LORD!"

One day an atheist moved into the House next door. He became irritated at the little old lady.

Every morning he'd step onto his Front porch after her and yell: "THERE IS NO LORD!"

Time passed with the two of them Carrying on this way every day.

One morning, in the middle of Winter, the little old lady stepped onto her front porch and shouted: "PRAISE THE LORD! Please Lord, I have no food and I am starving, provide For me, oh Lord!

The next mo rning she stepped onto Her porch and there were two huge bags of groceries sitting there.

"PRAISE THE LORD!" she Cried out. "HE HAS PROVIDED GROCERIES FOR ME!"

The atheist neighbor jumped out Of the hedges and shouted: "THERE IS NO LORD. I BOUGHT THOSE GROCERIES!!"

The little old lady threw her Arms into the air and shouted: "PRAISE THE LORD! HE HAS PROVIDED ME WITH GROCERIES AND MADE THE DEVIL PAY FOR THEM!

What's In A Name?

Two elderly ladies had been friends for many decades. Over the years they had shared all kinds of activities and adventures. Lately, their activities had been limited to meeting a few times a week to play cards.

One day they were playing cards when one looked at the other and said, "Now don't get mad at me....I know we've been friends for a long time.....but I just can't think of your name! I've thought and thought, but I can't remember it. Please tell me what your name is."

Her friend glared at her. For at least three minutes she just stared and glared at her. Finally she said, "How soon do you need to know?"

Food Related Ponderings?

• Since bread is square, then why is sandwich meat round?
• Why does a round pizza come in a square box?
• What disease did cured ham actually have?
• Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet soup?
• Why do toasters always have a setting that burns the toast to a horrible crisp, which no decent human being would eat?
• If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, what is baby oil made from?
• Who was the first person to look at a cow and say, "I think I'll squeeze these dangly things here, and drink whatever comes out!"
• Better yet, who was the first person to watch a white thing come out a chicken behind and think, "that ought to taste good."

FBC Lake Butler Added to Schedule

I will be preaching at my home church, First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, on Sunday, February 19, 2006. I will be preaching the 11am and 6pm worship services.

First Baptist Church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida. For more info call the church office at (386) 496-3704.

Green Cove Springs Tomorrow

I'll be preaching the special 5th Sunday Service tomorrow (January 29th) at Sharon Baptist Church. There will be a Gospel Sing featuring Kevin Owen & Cheryl Kent at 1oam. The morning worhip service will begin at 11am and a covered-dish lunch will follow.

Sharon Baptist Church is located at 5584 Sharon Rd. near Green Cove Springs, Florida.

Podcast Now On iTunes

My new ministry project, a Podcast called "Walking with the Giant" is now available on iTunes. The program is a free download.

The program is also listed on Podcasting News, Podcast Alley, Podcast Pickle and other podcasting directories.

Technological Ponderings?

• How is it that we put man on the moon before we figured out it would be a good idea to put wheels on luggage?
• Why is there a light in the fridge and not in the freezer?
• If the professor on Gilligan's island can make a radio out of a coconut, why can't he fix a hole in a boat?
• If electricity comes from electrons, does morality come from morons?

Union County Tragedy

God has certainly used me in many ways since my entering the ministry in 1994. Last night was another “first” in that I was scheduled to preach at my home church, First Baptist of Lake Butler, Florida, and then I learned of the tragic accident that occurred earlier in the afternoon. A Union County school bus, semi-truck and a car were involved in a crash on SR121. Seven children were killed and several others were taken to area hospitals, some by helicopter. I was told that none of the people involved are members of our church; however, with this being a small, close-knit community, the impact is still great.

Our service last night consisted of a lot of prayer and a message of “hope” from God’s Word. I have never led a service in the wake of such a tragedy that has hit so close to home. A reporter and photographer from the Gainesville Sun newspaper were also present preparing a story about local churches dealing with the tragedy. You can read the story at: http://gainesville.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060126/LOCAL/201260355/1078.

I praise the Lord for giving me the words needed for this service. We serve an awesome God!

I ask that you please be in prayer for everyone involved in this accident and for the healing, physically, emotionally & spiritually, that is needed.

Escape!

Here's another one of those online games that will drive you crazy! It is called "Escape" and can be played (or since adults don't play games, I should have said it can be "studied") at: http://members.iinet.net.au/~pontipak/redsquare.html.

The object of the game is to move the red block around without getting hit by the blue blocks or touching the black walls. If you can go longer than 18 seconds you are phenomenal.

Note: I have made it to just over 12 seconds at the time of this post.

RSS Feed for WWTG

If you use an RSS type newsreader to subscribe to news and podcasts feel free to add this one to your reader: http://feeds.feedburner.com/jamescroft/opEf. This is the feed for the new program "Walking with the Giant" (see yesterday's post for info or click the link).

This blogsite also has an RSS feed, it is: http://feeds.feedburner.com/WalkingWithTheGiant.

Should you need these feeds in the future just click on the two icons to the left, "xml" button for the blog feed and the "sound" button for the podcast.

Audio Newsletter Now Available!!!

I have a new ministry project that I would like to share with you. It is “Walking with the Giant”. This is a monthly 30-minute audio newsletter for this ministry and can be downloaded (free) from the web or delivered to you on an audio CD for a small monthly donation. Click the link below for more information:

"Walking with the Giant"

I will use this site to announce when a new edition of the program is available each month.

Also, please feel free to forward this info to anyone you think might be interested.

I look forward to hearing what you think about this new ministry. You can e-mail me at evangelist@jamescroft.org.

For more info about my ministry you can visit www.jamescroft.org.

Praise Christian Church

I have been asked by Pastor Cecil Hysmith to preach this Sunday morning (11am) at Praise Christian Church. The church is located between Cross City and Old Town.

Financial Ponderings?

• If Wyle E. Coyote had enough money to buy all that ACME stuff, why didn't he just buy dinner?
• Why do you have to "put your two cents in"...but it's only a "penny for your thoughts?" Where's that extra penny going to?
• If money doesn't grow on trees then why do banks have branches?

Predictions for 2006

THE TOP TEN PREDICTIONS FOR 2006:

10. The Bible will still have the answers.
9. Prayer will still work.
8. The Holy Spirit will still move.
7. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
6. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
5. There will still be singing of praise.
4. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
3. There will still be room at the Cross.
2. Jesus will still love you.
1. Jesus will still save the lost.

Author Unknown

FBC Lake Butler Tonight

I will be leading the Bible Study tonight at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler. The service begins at 6:30pm and the church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida.

Good Morning

"Somebody has well said there are only two kinds of people in the world. There are those who wake up in the morning and say, "Good morning, Lord," and there are those who wake up in the morning and say, "Good Lord, it's morning."

Interview with an Honest Boss

I've never seen this one before and I must admit it is cute. Check out "Interview with an Honest Boss" at: http://www.hallmark.com/wcsstore/HallmarkStore/images/products/ecards/nfg1969.swf.

The Senility Prayer

Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked anyway, the good fortune to run into the ones I do, and the eyesight to tell the difference.

Not exactly Biblical, but funny.

"Art" Work

A Sunday School teacher began her lesson with a question, "Boys and girls, what do we know about God?"

A hand shot up in the air. "He is an artist!" said the kindergarten boy.

"Really? How do you! know?" the teacher asked.

"You know - Our Father, who does art in Heaven... "

Triskadekaphobic?

Do you have a fear of the number "13"?

Even though it is Friday the 13th, this is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it!

How about you?

Shiloh Baptist Added to Schedule

I will be preaching in supply for Pastor Mark Driskell this Sunday night at Shiloh Baptist Church. The evening worship service begins at 7pm. Shiloh Baptist Church is located at 173 SW Shiloh Way near Fort White, Florida.

Red Skelton's Pledge

This site was sent to me and I want to share it with you. It contains a story by Red Skelton concerning the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. You can hear it at: http://www.patriotfilesannex.org/Pledge.htm.

Orange Heights on Sunday

I will be preaching in supply for Pastor Lonnie Broome this Sunday morning, January 15th at Orange Heights Baptist Church. The service will begin at 11am.

Orange Heights Baptist Church is located at 16700 NE SR 26 in Orange Heights, Florida.

Small Crowd Big Miracle

I preached the morning & evening services at Gadara Baptist Church in Keystone Heights, Florida yesterday. The morning service was well attended and there was a good Spirit during the service. The night service was much less attended (could be the preacher?) but what a miracle we experienced! Let me start during the afternoon...

After having lunch with a family from the church I returned to spend the afternoon in the pastor's study to save driving over an hour back home and then back to the church again. While studying, the church's telephone rang and I answered the call. It was someone wanting to know the time of the evening service. There was no other conversation and I didn't give the call much thought at that time.

Again, as in the morning service, there was a good Spirit, just a much smaller crowd. During the Invitation we learned of a man whose wife is suffering from cancer. We gathered around him and had prayer for his wife and him. God was certainly present!

After the service had concluded one of the men of the church came to the front row with a couple and motioned for me. I learned that they had called about the service time. Before we left, the gentleman had accepted Christ as Savior and his wife rededicated her life to the Lord!

There is no greater miracle than someone passing from death to life by repenting of their sin and asking Jesus to save them! Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Who says nothing much happens in night services? When Jesus is in the house... anything can happen!!!

What if I had chose NOT to answer the telephone?

If A Dog Were Your Teacher

You would learn stuff like.....

• When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
• Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
• When it's in your best interest-practice obedience.
• Take naps and stretch before rising.
• Thrive on attention and let others touch you.
• Run, romp, and play daily.
• Avoid biting, when a simple growl will do.
• When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
• On hot days, lay down and rest.
• No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout... run right back and make friends.
• Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
• Be loyal.
• Never pretend to be something you're not.
• When someone is having a bad day just jump in their arms and bring a happy smile.

Parking Problem

A minister parked his car in a no-parking zone in a large city because he was short of time and couldn't find a space with a meter. Then he put a note under the windshield wiper that read: "I have circled the block 10 times. If I don't park here, I'll miss my appointment. Forgive us our trespasses."

When he returned, he found a citation from a police officer along with this note "I've circled this block for 10 years. If I don't give you a ticket, I'll lose my job. Lead us not into temptation."

When You're Caught

Please, remember this is only a joke and should not be tried in your office!

Top 10 things to say when you're caught sleeping at your desk:

10. "They told me at the Blood Bank this might happen.."
9. "This is just a 15 minute power nap they raved about in the time management course I just took!"
8. "Whew! Guess I left the top off the Whiteout. You probably got here just in time."
7. "I wasn't sleeping! I was meditating on the company's mission statement and envisioning a new business strategy."
6. "I was testing my keyboard for drool resistance."
5. "I was doing a highly specific Yoga exercise to relieve work-related stress. Are you discriminatory toward people who practice Yoga?"
4. "Darn! Why did you interrupt me? I had almost figured out how to handle that big problem."
3. "Did you ever notice sound coming out of these keyboards when you put your ear down real close?"
2. "Who put decaf in the coffee pot?!?"

AND THE NUMBER ONE best thing to say if you get caught sleeping at your desk........

1. Raise your head slowly and say, "...in Jesus name, Amen."

FBC Lake Butler Tonight

I will be leading the Prayer Meeting/Bible Study tonight at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler. The service will begin at 6:30pm. The church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida. Please be in prayer for this service.

Chicken and Eggs Game

Have you ever tried to catch fresh layed eggs in a basket? Well, now's your chance! You can give it a try at this link: http://www.downloadlab.com/chickenandeggs.html.

If you miss one, then I guess the "yoke's" on you!!! (An oldie, but still a goodie.)

Youth Valentine Banquet

I have added a youth Valentine banquet to my schedule for Saturday, February 4, 2006. This will be for the youth of First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, Florida, my home church.

Happy New Year Card

This is a cute animated New Year's card that also has sound: http://www.icq.com/img/friendship/static/card_16961_rs.swf.

FBC Lake Butler Added to Schedule

I will be leading the prayer meeting & Bible study services on Wednesday nights in January at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler. The services on the 4th, 11th, 18th and 25th all begin at 6:30pm.

First Baptist Church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida. For more info call the church office at (386) 496-3704.

FBC is currently seeking a pastor, so please be in prayer for the church and the Pastor Search Committee.

Breakable

There was a very gracious lady who was mailing an old family Bible to her brother in another part of the country.

"Is there anything breakable in here?" asked the postal clerk.

"Only the Ten Commandments," answered the lady.

Podcast On The Way

This ministry will be launching a Podcast very soon. Keep checking here for details!

Rules

I found some of these funny, some interesting, and some just apparently filling space.

1. If you are choking on an ice cube, don't panic! Simply pour a cup ofboiling water down your throat and presto! The blockage will be almost instantly removed.
2. Clumsy? Avoid cutting yourself while slicing vegetables by getting someone else to hold them while you chop away.
3. Avoid arguments with the Mrs. about lifting the toilet seat by simply using the sink.
4. For high blood pressure sufferers: just cut yourself and bleed for a few minutes, thus reducing the pressure in your veins.
5. A mouse trap, placed on top of your alarm clock, will prevent you from rolling over and going back to sleep after you hit the snooze button.
6. If you have a bad cough, take a large dose of laxatives, then you will be afraid to cough.
7. Have a bad toothache? Smash your thumb with a hammer and you will forget about the toothache.
8. You only need two tools: WD-40 and Duct Tape. If it doesn't move and should, use the WD-40. If it shouldn't move and does, use the duct tape.
9. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.
10. Never pass up an opportunity to go to the bathroom.
11. If you woke up breathing, congratulations! You get another chance.
12. And finally, be really nice to your family and friends, you never know when you might need them to empty your bedpan.

1-800-FREE411

I just learned of a new telephone information directory service that is FREE; although, you do have to listen to a 10 second advertisement. All you do is dial 1-800-FREE411 (1-800-373-3411. There is also a free website that you can utilize, http://www.free411.com/index.htm.

This link takes you directly to the search page: http://www.free411.com/searchresults.php?searchtype=2. The web searches include: "Find a Person", "Find a Business" (by name), "Find a Business" (by category), and "Search by Phone Number".

We live in a time when a lot of information can be accessed via the World Wide Web. It's kind of scary isn't it?

Kingbi Called as Elder

Evangelist Raphael Adjei Kingbi (Evangelist Ralph) has been called as an Elder in Paola Memorial Presbyterian Church in Teshie, Ghana, West Africa. Evangelist Ralph is the youngest man ever called to serve as Elder in this church.

Ralph serves the Lord as an evangelist in the Greater Accra Metropolitan Region of Ghana, but during the past year his ministry has moved into other Regions of Ghana.

I came to know Evangelist Ralph early in 2002 when he called to issue an invitation to lead the "Gathering of the Clouds" Crusade later that year. Since that time I have made three trips to Ghana (2002, 2003, & 2004) to preach the Gospel. Evangelist Ralph coordinated each of the trips' activities in Teshie with Zion Evangelistic Ministry (an organization with which he served as Director).

Evangelist Ralph now also serves as Ghana Coordinator for the ministries of the James Croft Evangelistic Association.

Friendship Baptist Valentine Banquet

I will be the guest speaker at the Youth Valentine Banquet at Friendship Baptist Church on Saturday, February 11, 2006. For more information call Minister of Youth Bill Lawhon at (386) 776-1418. Friendship Baptist Church is located at 14364 140th St. near Live Oak, Florida.

First Six Letters

The most important part of Christmas is the first six letters: CHRIST-mas!

A Christmas Card For You

(click on text and photo to enlarge)

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places in Christ, (Ephesians 1:2 NKJV)

Merry Christmas!!!

Christmas Cartoons

I received these cartoons via e-mail and got a laugh out of them, so I thought I would share them with you.

Interactive Card

Here is a nice interactive Christmas card: http://holidays.blastcomm.com/holidays03.html.

Christmas Day Service

I will be preaching at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler at 10am on Christmas Day. We will not be holding Sunday School and will have an abbreviated morning worship service. This will be the first time in my ministry of preaching on Christmas Day.

First Baptist Church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida.

Please attend the Bible teaching church of your choice this Sunday!

Gadara Baptist in January

I have been asked to preach in supply for Interim Pastor Jerry Gessell, Sr. in January at Gadara Baptist Church. I will be preaching the morning service (11am) and the evening service (6pm) on Sunday, January 8, 2006.

Gadara Baptist Church is located at 6779 CR 315C in Keystone Heights, Florida. For more info call the church at (352) 473-3615. Please remember to pray for this church as they seek the pastor the Lord has chosen for them.

Deck the House

Check out "Deck the House": http://www.powerpres.com/xmascard03.html.

Sharon Baptist in January

I will be preaching the 5th Sunday Morning Worship Service at Sharon Baptist Church on January 29, 2006. A gospel sing will be held at 10am with the preaching service beginning at 11am. Dinner-on-the-grounds will also be held after the morning service.

Sharon Baptist Church is located at 5584 Sharon Road in Green Cove Springs, Florida.

Christmas Word Search

Check out this online Christmas Word Search: http://wandascountryhome.com/christmas/wordgame/

Candlelight Service Photos

Here are some photos from tonight's Christmas Candlelight Service at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, Florida.




(Left) Children accompanied by their parents lit 8 different candles during the service. Each candle represented a part of the Scripture reading for the service.









(Right) During the reading of Isaiah 53:3-8 a physically weakened & bleeding Jesus entered the church struggling under the weight of His cross.









(Left) After the reading of Matthew 5:14-16 the congregation's candles were lit by the deacons.
















(Left) The sanctuary was aglow with the congregation's candles.












(Left) The congregation exited the sanctuary singing "Joy To The World" and formed a circle on the church courtyard with candles glowing. This is our commitment to let our light shine before all people.





The photos were taken by Jon M. Fletcher. You can view more of Jon's photography at www.jonmfletcher.com and on my website, www.jamescroft.org, in the Ghana Photo Galleries.

Candlelight Service Tonight

I will be leading a Christmas Candlelight Service tonight at 6pm at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler. The service will feature congregational & special music, drama and the Christmas Story from the Word of God. It will be a wonderful time of worship and a great reminder that Jesus is the reason for the season!

First Baptist Church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida.

Why Water?

The Sunday school teacher was carefully explaining the story of Elijah the Prophet and the false prophets of Baal.

She explained how Elijah built the altar, put wood upon it, cut the steer in pieces, and laid it upon the altar. And then, Elijah commanded the people of God to fill four barrels of water and pour it over the altar. He had them do this four times.

"Now," said the teacher, "can anyone in the class tell me why the Lord would have Elijah pour water over the steer on the altar?"

A little girl in the back of the room started waving her hand, "I know, I know," she said, "to make the gravy!"

Bubble Wrap

Do you like to pop the little bubbles on a piece of bubble wrap? Well, now you can pop away right at your computer. Check it out here: http://www.urban75.com/Mag/bubble.html.

Candlelight Service Sunday Night

I will be leading a Christmas Candlelight Service this Sunday night at 6pm at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler. The service will feature congregational & special music, drama and the Christmas Story from the Word of God. It will be a wonderful time of worship and a great reminder that Jesus is the reason for the season!

First Baptist Church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida. For more information call the church office at (386) 496-3704.

Christmas Love

Now THIS is what it's all about!! Merry Christmas!

Each December, I vowed to make Christmas a calm and peaceful experience. I
had cut back on nonessential obligations - extensive card writing, endless
baking, decorating and even overspending. Yet, still, I found myself
exhausted, unable to appreciate the precious family moments and of course,
the true meaning of Christmas.

My son, Nicholas, was in kindergarten that year. It was an exciting season
for a six year old. For weeks, he'd been memorizing songs for his school's
"Winter Pageant". I didn't have the heart to tell him I'd be working the
night of the production. Unwilling to miss his shining moment, I spoke with
his teacher. She assured me there'd be a dress rehearsal the morning of the
presentation. All Parents unable to attend that evening were welcome to come
then. Fortunately, Nicholas seemed happy with the compromise.

So, the morning of the dress rehearsal, I filed in ten minutes early, found
a spot on the cafeteria floor and sat down. Around the room, I saw several
other parents quietly scampering to their seats. As I waited, the students
were led into the room. Each class, accompanied by their teacher, sat
cross-legged on the floor. Then, each group, one by one, rose to perform
their song. Because the public school system had long stopped referring to
the holiday as "Christmas", I didn't expect anything other than fun
commercial entertainment - songs of reindeer,
Santa Claus, snowflakes , and good cheer.

So, when my son's class rose to sing, "Christmas Love," I was slightly taken
aback by its bold title. Nicholas was aglow, as were all of his classmates,
adorned in fuzzy mittens, red sweaters and bright snowcaps upon their heads.
Those in the front row - center stage - held up large letters, one by one,
to spell out the title of the song. As the class would sing "C is for
Christmas, " a child would hold up the letter C. Then, "H is for Happy,"
and on and on, until each child holding up his portion had presented the
complete message, "Christmas Love."

The performance was going smoothly, until suddenly, we noticed her a small,
quiet girl in the front row holding the letter "M" upside down - totally
unaware her letter "M" appeared as a "W". The audience of the 1st through
6th graders snickered at this little one's mistake, but she had no idea they
were laughing at her, so she stood tall, proudly holding her "W". Although
many teachers tried to shush the children, the laughter continued until the
last letter was raised, and we all saw it together.

A hush came over the audience and eyes began to widen. In an instant, we
understood the reason we were there, why we celebrated the holiday in the
first place, why even in the chaos, there was a purpose for our festivities.
For when the last letter was held high, the message read loud and clear:

"C H R I S T W A S L O V E"

"Love Banquet" Added to Schedule

I will be the guest speaker for the "Love Banquet" at Lake Forest Baptist Church on Sunday, February 12, 2006 at 5pm. For more information call Pastor Charles Biggs at (352) 378-1100. Lake Forest Baptist Church is located at 5121 East University Ave. in Gainesville, Florida.

Christmas Card

This is a cute interactive Christmas card: http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=0212320003.

Pastor Moves to Georgia

My pastor, Rusty Womack, has accepted the call to a new church in Georgia. This past Sunday was his last day at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler, Florida. He will begin at Rehoboth Baptist Church near Atlanta on January 1, 2006.

During Pastor Rusty's time in Lake Butler we have seen many souls saved, many hearts changed and rapid growth in our services. God has certainly used him in a mighty way over the past three years.

I personally have mixed emotions about his departure. James the evangelist rejoices that God has found him faithful and now is moving him to new challenges. James the member of FBC Lake Butler is saddened at the loss of my pastor. I do know that God has never let us down and He will not start now. The Lord already has a man picked out for our church and I believe that exciting times are just around the bend!

I want to wish Rusty and his family all the best in their relocation and in the new ministry that God has led them to.

I ask each of you, as well as the members of both FBC Lake Butler and Rehoboth Baptist, to pray for the Womack family during their relocation and for each other as both churches will be in a time of transition. Remember, God still works during a church's time of transition too. Our God is certainly an awesome God!!!

Christmas Snowglobe

Check out this animated Christmas snowglobe: http://ww12.e-tractions.com/snowglobe/globe.htm.

Philippi Baptist Tomorrow

I will be preaching the morning worship (11am) and evening worship (7pm) services at Philippi Baptist Church tomorrow, Sunday, December 11th. Philippi Baptist is located on CR18 east of US441 south of Lake City & Ellisville in the community of Mikesville.

Please be in prayer for these services.

Have You Ever Felt This Way?

I think everyone has felt like this at one time in our life. This is a letter that was supposedly sent to a bank after the customer's check bounced.

Dear Sir:

I am writing to thank you for bouncing my check with which I endeavored to pay my plumber last month. By my calculations, three nanoseconds must have elapsed between his presenting the check and the arrival in my account of the funds needed to honor it. I refer, of course, to the automatic monthly deposit of my entire salary, an arrangement which, I admit, has only been in place for eight years.

You are to be commended for seizing that brief window of opportunity, and also for debiting my account $50 by way of penalty for the inconvenience caused to your bank. My thankfulness springs from the manner in which this incident has caused me to rethink my errant financial ways.

I noticed that whereas I personally attend to your telephone calls and letters, when I try to contact you, I am confronted by the impersonal, overcharging, prerecorded faceless entity which your bank has become.

From now on, I, like you, choose only to deal with a flesh-and-blood person. My mortgage and loan repayments will, therefore and hereafter, no longer be automatic, but will arrive at your bank, by check, addressed personally and confidentially to an employee at your bank whom you must nominate.

Be aware that it is an offense under the Postal Act for any other person to open such an envelope. Please find attached an Application Contact Status which I require your chosen employee to complete.

I am sorry it runs to eight pages, but in order that I know as much about him or her as your bank knows about me, there is no alternative. Please note that all copies of his or her medical history must be countersigned by a Notary Public, and the mandatory details of his/her financial situation (income, debts, assets and liabilities) must be accompanied by documented proof.

In due course, I will issue your employee with a PIN number which he/she must quote in dealings with me. I regret that it cannot be shorter than 28 digits but, again, I have modeled it on the number of button presses required to access my account balance on your phone bank service. As they say, imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.

Let me level the playing field even further. Press buttons as follows:

1.- To make an appointment to see me.
2.- To query a missing payment.
3.- To transfer the call to my living room in case I am there.
4.- To transfer the call to my bedroom in case I am sleeping.
5. -To transfer the call to my toilet in case I am attending to nature.
6.- To transfer the call to my mobile phone if I am not at home.
7.- To leave a message on my computer, a password to access my computer is required. Password will be communicated at a later date to the Authorized Contact.
8. To return to the main menu and to listen to options 1 through 7.
9. To make a general complaint or inquiry.

The contact will then be put on hold, pending the attention of my automated answering service. While this may, on occasion, involve a lengthy wait, uplifting music will play for the duration of the call.

Regrettably, but again following your example, I must also levy an establishment fee to cover the setting up of this new arrangement.

May I wish you a happy, if ever-so-slightly less prosperous New Year?

Your Humble Client

Bank Loan

A frog goes into a bank and approaches the teller. He can see from her nameplate that her name is Patricia Whack.

"Miss Whack, I'd like to get a $30,000 loan to take a holiday."

Patty looks at the frog in disbelief and asks his name. The frog says his name is Kermit Jagger, his dad is Mick Jagger, and that it's okay, he knows the bank manager.

Patty explains that he will need to secure the loan with some collateral.

The frog says, "Sure. I have this," and produces a tiny porcelain elephant, about an inch tall, bright pink and perfectly formed.

Very confused, Patty explains that she'll have to consult with the bank manager and disappears into a back office.

She finds the manager and says, "There's a frog called Kermit Jagger out there who claims to know you and wants to borrow $30,000, and he wants to use this as collateral."

She holds up the tiny pink elephant. "I mean, what in the world is this?"

The bank manager looks back at her and says..."It's a knickknack, Patty Whack. Give the frog a loan. His old man's a Rolling Stone."

(You're singing it, aren't you? Yeah, I know you are........)

Christmas Quiz

Here's a fun Christmas Quiz that you might find interesting: http://www.quizland.com/f2quiz.mv?f18+NOMUSIC.

I scored a 161 and rank #16 on the score list. Let me know how you do.

Cool Animation

This is a cool animation with sound that you might enjoy: http://www.lifetalk.net/2ndcoming/ee.html.

Share it with others.

Wit or Wisdom?

• I used to eat a lot of natural foods until I learned that most people die of natural causes.
• Gardening Rule: When weeding, the best way to make sure you are removing a weed and not a valuable plant is to pull on it. If it comes out of the ground easily, it is a valuable plant.
• The easiest way to find something lost around the house is to buy a replacement.
• Health nuts are going to feel stupid someday, lying in hospitals dying of nothing.
• Whenever I feel blue, I start breathing.
• All of us could take a lesson from the weather. It pays no attention to criticism.
• How is it one careless match can start a forest fire, but it takes a whole box to start a campfire?
• Why does Goofy stand erect while Pluto remains on all fours? They're both dogs!
• If corn oil is made from corn, and vegetable oil is made from vegetables, then what is baby oil made from?
• If electricity comes from electrons, does morality come from morons?
• Why do the Alphabet song and Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star have the same tune?
• Do illiterate people get the full effect of Alphabet Soup?
• Did you ever notice that when you blow in a dog's face, he gets mad at you, but when you take him on a car ride, he sticks his head out the window?
• Does pushing the elevator button more than once make it arrive faster?
• Why doesn't glue stick to the inside of the bottle?

Philippi Baptist Added to Schedule

I have added Phiippi Baptist Church to my preaching schedule for this Sunday, December 11th. I will be preaching the 11am & 7pm services for Pastor Carl Chauncey. The church is located on CR18 east of US441, south of Lake City & Ellisville at Mikesville, Florida.

Please be in prayer for these services.

What an anniversary!

I had been saying that whenever the Lord placed it upon someone's heart to call me with a preaching engagement that He would be letting me know that I was physically ready to return to the pulpit. Yesterday (Dec. 4th.) was my first time to preach the Gospel since my heart bypass surgery on November 3rd. I preached the 11am worship service at Grace Baptist Church in Gainesville, Florida. I must say that God blessed me during the service.

I was a little tired at the end of the service, but nothing like I have been over the past 4 weeks after taking long walks. I had no pain during the message at all and I was able to move freely. I did notice my voice becoming slightly hoarse toward the end of the message. This could be that I haven't been speaking that loudly the past few weeks. 8-)

A friend was present that has heard me preach before and told me that I sounded almost 100%. Our God certainly is an awesome God!!!

When I began the message I shared my testimony of how the Lord brought me through the past few weeks. As I mentioned the date of December 4th I remembered that it was on Sunday, December 4, 1994 that I publicly surrendered to preach the Gospel. I was also licensed that same night by First Baptist Church of Olustee, Florida.

What an exciting way to celebrate my anniversary of a life changing decision to enter the Lord's ministry - returning again to His service after a life changing (& saving) surgery!!!

What an anniversary! Praise God from Whom all blessings flow!!!

The Great Escape

Nine year old Joey, was asked by his mother what he had learned in Sunday school. "Well, Mom, our teacher told us how God sent Moses behind enemy lines on a rescue mission to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. When he got to the Red Sea, he had his engineers build a pontoon bridge and all the people walked across safely. Then, he used his walkie-talkie to radio headquarters for reinforcements. They sent bombers to blow up the bridge and all the Israelites were saved."

"Now, Joey, is that really what your teacher taught you?" his mother asked.

"Well, no, Mom. But, if I told it the way the teacher did, you'd never believe it!"

Sunday School Humor

LOT'S WIFE

The Sunday School teacher was describing how Lot's wife looked back and turned into a pillar of salt, when little Johnny interrupted, "My Mummy looked back once, while she was DRIVING," he announced triumphantly, "and she turned into a telephone pole!"


DID NOAH FISH?

A Sunday school teacher asked, "Johnny, do you think Noah did a lot of fishing when he was on the Ark?"

"No," replied Johnny. "How could he, with just two worms."


HIGHER POWER

A Sunday school teacher said to her children, "We have been learning how powerful kings and queens were in Bible times. But, there is a higher power. Can anybody tell me what it is?"

One child blurted out, "Aces!"

Grace Baptist on Sunday

I will be preaching the 11am Worship Service at Grace Baptist Church on Sunday, December 4th. The church is located at 7100 NW 39th Ave. in Gainesville, Florida. For more information call the church office at (352) 374-4748.

This will be my first time back in the pulpit since I had heart bypass surgery on November 3rd. I'm trusting the Lord to provide the physical and spiritual strength needed to carry out His work. Please be in prayer for this service.

Candlelight Service Added in December

I will be leading a Christmas Candlelight Service on Sunday, December 18th at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler. The service will begin at 6pm at the church located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida. For more information call the church at (386) 496-3704.

Back to the Pulpit

It has been four weeks since my heart bypass surgery and I'm excited to announce I will soon be back in the pulpit preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ. I have been asked to speak during the Christmas Day service at First Baptist Church of Lake Butler (my home church). The service will begin at 10am on December 25th. The church is located at 195 East Main Street in Lake Butler, Florida.

English

Can you read these right the first time?

1) The bandage was wound around the wound.
2) The farm was used to produce produce.
3) The landfill was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.
4) We must polish the Polish furniture.
5) He could lead if he would get the lead out.
6) The soldier decided to desert his dessert in the desert.
7) Since there is no time like the present, he thought it was time to present the present.
8) A bass was painted on the head of the bass drum
9) When shot at, the dove dove into the bushes.
10) I did not object to the object.
11) The insurance was invalid for the invalid.
12) There was a row among the oarsmen about how to row.
13) They were too close to the door to close it.
14) The buck does funny things when the does are present.
15) A seamstress and a sewer fell down into a sewer line.
16) To help with planting, the farmer taught his sow to sow.
17) The wind was too strong to wind the sail.
18) Upon seeing the tear in the painting I shed a tear.
19) I had to subject the subject to a series of tests.
20) How can I intimate this to my most intimate friend?

Twas The Night Of Thanksgiving

Twas the night of Thanksgiving, But I just couldn't sleep.
I tried counting backwards, I tried counting sheep

The leftovers beckoned --- The dark meat and white,
But I fought the temptation with all of my might.

Tossing and turning with anticipation......
The thought of a snack became infatuation.....

So I raced to the kitchen, Flung open the door,
And gazed at the fridge full of goodies galore.

I gobbled up turkey and buttered potatoes,
Pickles and carrots, beans and tomatoes.

I felt myself swelling so plump and so round,
Till all of a sudden, I rose off the ground!!

I crashed through the ceiling. Floating into the sky....
With a mouthfull of pudding and a handful of pie,

But I managed to yell as I sored past the trees....................

HAPPY EATING TO ALL!! PASS THE CRANBERRIES PLEASE!!

(Author Unknown)

Let's Talk Turkey

I thought this article about true stories from "turkey cooking hotlines" was interesting and quite timely too.

http://www.snopes.com/holidays/thanksgiving/turkey.asp

Home For Thanksgiving

An elderly man in Phoenix calls his son in New York and says, "I hate to ruin your day, but I have to tell you that your mother and I are divorcing; forty-five years of misery is enough."

"Pop, what are you talking about," the son screams.

"We can't stand the sight of each other any longer,"the old man says. "We're sick and tired of each other, and I'm sick of talking about this, so you call your sister in Chicago and tell her." And he hangs up.

Frantic, the son calls his sister, who explodes on the phone.

"Like Heck they're getting a divorce, she shouts. "I'll take care of this."

She calls Phoenix immediately, and screams at the old man, "You are NOT getting divorced! Don't do a single thing until I get there. I'm calling my brother back and we'll both be there tomorrow. Until then don't do a thing, DO YOU HEAR ME?" And she hangs up.

The old man hangs up his phone, smiles and turns to his wife. "They're coming for Thanksgiving and paying their own way."

Doctor Update

I returned yesterday for my first appointment with my surgeon since my my heart bypass surgery on November 3rd and received a very good report. Everything is healing nicely and I'm doing great! I will be able to drive again late next week and return to work on a very limited schedule soon after that. I was told there is no damage to my heart and that it is "very" strong! Praise the Lord!

God certainly deserves all of the credit for my recovery!

The Great Turkey Escape

Check out "Farmer Giblet's Turkey Farm" game: http://www.ezone.com/games/turkey3d/

Thanksgiving Humor

These are some really bad Thanksgiving day jokes & riddles. I hope you enjoy them.

Which side of the turkey has the most feathers?
The outside

Why did they let the turkey join the band?
Because he had the drumsticks

How did the Mayflower show that it liked America?
It hugged the shore

Why did the police arrest the turkey?
They suspected it of fowl play.

A turkey farmer was always experimenting with breeding to perfect a better turkey. His family was fond of the leg portion for dinner and there were never enough legs for everyone. After many frustrating attempts, the farmer was relating the results of his efforts to his friends at the general store get together. "Well I finally did it! I bred a turkey that has 6 legs!"
They all asked the farmer how it tasted.
"I don't know" said the farmer. "I never could catch the darn thing!"

What kind of music did the Pilgrims like?
Plymouth Rock

What did the turkey say before it was roasted?
Boy! I'm stuffed!

If April showers bring May flowers what do May flowers bring?
Pilgrims!

Why do turkeys always go, "gobble, gobble"?
Because they never learned good table manners!

Turkey in the Straw

This is a neat Flash animation with music.

http://www.jacquielawson.com/viewcard.asp?code=1796513126

Recovery Update

Today I will begin adding daily posts to this blog again. I also want to update you on my recovery progress so that God receives the glory because He most certainly deserves it!

I am becoming stronger with each new day. I still get tired after long walks, but even that is decreasing. I have really not had any pain through this entire process. I haven't taken any pain medicine since November 10th. I came home from the hospital on November 8th.

I have been attending some church services. The first Sunday at home (Nov. 13th) I attended First Baptist Church of Olustee (near my home) and yesterday I attended my home church, First Baptist of Lake Butler.

I have my first doctor visit tomorrow with the surgeon. I'm sure I will learn more info about future activities during this visit.

I believe the Lord will have me back in His service very soon as He is working mightily during this recovery!

Thank you all for your prayers, cards, e-mails and visits. I pray that God blesses each of you for your encouragement during this time.

The "Heart" of the Matter

I must begin this post by saying, “I thank the Lord that I am able to deliver this post!” The reason is, I have just returned from a 7-night “vacation” in Alachua General Hospital in Gainesville, Florida.

I went to the Emergency Room Tuesday afternoon (Nov. 1st) with chest pains. A Heart Catheterization was performed on Wednesday, which revealed three blockages needed immediate attention. The open- heart bypass surgery took place on Thursday morning with successful results. I returned home on Tuesday (Nov. 8th). To God be the glory!!!

I have so many examples of how the Lord had total control over the situation, even though, I must confess, that I had some fears of what lay ahead. The right doctors, nurses and staff were in place at the exact moment they were needed. A dear Christian friend was the Charge Nurse of the Surgical Intensive Care Unit where I was located for a few days. The nurse assigned to me during that time is a Christian. Once moved to a regular room I found one of the nurses (a Christian) had been present during a revival meeting last year. One of my closest friend’s daughter (a Christian that has been brought through many heart procedures) is also on the hospital staff and visited regularly. There were also many other opportunities to share Jesus and exchange testimonies. God also took care of the scheduling issues in that only two preaching engagements remained before the end of the year. He lessened the financial burden with co-workers donating part of their sick leave so that I may still receive payment from my secular employer (since my leave has long been exhausted). I could go on and on giving praise to the Lord for all He brought about over the past two weeks.

There are so many people that I would love to thank in this note, but I’m afraid I would leave someone out, and there are many that I do not know their names at all. I received so many telephone calls leaving messages with hospital staff as well as many visiting me during my stay.

To all of the family, friends, churches, co-workers in the Lord’s Work, co-workers at New River Solid Waste Association, and those that I don’t even know of that prayed for me, your prayers were heard and much appreciated.

“I thank my God upon every remembrance of you,” – Phil 1:3

God bless you,

James

The Rope

I received this link in an e-mail today. It is an interesting story with photos too.

http://www.ticz.com/homes/users/bob/The-Rope/The-Rope.htm

New Life Baptist Homecoming

I will be preaching the Homecoming Service for New Life Baptist Church tomorrow (Sunday, October 30th) at 11am. The church is located at 3625 Woodville Highway in Tallahassee, Florida.

Please be in prayer for my travel and for the service.

Also, don't forget to turn your clock back one hour tonight as Daylight Savings Time comes to an end! An extra hour of sleep will be nice.

Thanksgiving Greeting Card

Here's an early Thanksgiving greeting card that will make you chuckle (or laugh).

http://www.msn.americangreetings.com/view.pd?i=382219626&m=1652&rr=y&sou

Doctors & Pastors

I received this in an e-mail and thought I would share it with you.

Ten differences between the Doctor and the Pastor:

1. The Doctor says, "Please disrobe" and you do it without question. The Pastor preaches that you should dress modestly and he is getting too personal.
2. The Doctor charges hefty fees and you complain but you come back the next time you are sick. The Pastor preaches that you should pay your tithes and you leave the church.
3. The Doctor checks how much you weigh and you allow him. The Pastor asks how much you pray and it's none of his business.
4. The Doctor gives you a nasty tasting pill and you take it. The Pastor feeds you the Word and you say "no thank you."
5. The Doctor's office closes at a certain time. The Pastor is to be available twenty-four hours a day.
6. The Doctor tells you how to change your lifestyle to lower your blood pressure. The Pastor tells you how to change your lifestyle and it raises your blood pressure.
7. The Doctor tells you "we need to run more tests," so you make an appointment. The Pastor says "we need more Prayer Meetings and Bible Studies" and you are too busy.
8. The Doctor says, "There is nothing more we can do", and you search high and low for one who can help. The Pastor says, "God can help you", and you give up and say "What's the use."
9. The Doctor says, "Try this and see if it works and if it doesn't we'll try something else", so you do. The Pastor gives you the promises of God's Word and you don't like to "Walk by faith."
10. To the Doctor, you are just another customer. To the Pastor, you are a part of the family. He loves you. He prays for you. He helps carry your burdens. He laughs with you and cries with you.

You are important to your Pastor. PRAY FOR HIM DAILY!!

Pumpkin Carving

This is in no way an endorsement of Halloween, but just a cool little flash program. It allows you to try your hand at carving a pumpkin. Just click on the word "pumpkin" and give it a try.

Side By Side

They lie on the table side by side,
he Holy Bible and the TV guide.
One is well worn and cherished with pride,
Not the Bible . . . but the TV guide.

One is used daily to help folks decide,
No, not the Bible . . . but the TV guide.
As the pages are turned, what shall they see,
Oh, what does it matter,turn on the TV.

Then confusion reigns, they can't all agree,
So they open the book in which they confide,
No, not the Bible . . . but the TV guide.

The Word of God is seldom read,
Maybe a verse as they fall into bed.
Exhausted and sleepy and tired as can be,
Not from reading the Bible . . .from watching TV.

So then back to the table side by side,
Lie the Holy Bible and the TV guide.
No time for prayer, no time for the Word,
The plan of Salvation is seldom heard.

But forgiveness of sin, so full and free,
Is found in the Bible . . . not on TV!!!

(Author Unknown)

Oakland Ministry Team

Revival Services got underway this morning at Oakland Baptist Church in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Services will continue at 6:30pm nightly through Wednesday. Oakland Baptist Church is located at 118 Wright Parkway, NW in Ft. Walton Beach.

Pictured are (left to right) Interim Pastor Ernest Walker, Associate Pastor/Minister of Music Danny Adkison, Music Leader Graham Boutwell and (front) Evangelist James Croft.