“Verily, Verily, I say unto you, he that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber. But he that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. To him the porter openeth; and the sheep hear his voice: and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out. And when he putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before them, and the sheep follow him: for they know his voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers. This parable spake Jesus unto them: but they understood not what things they were which he spake unto them. Then said Jesus unto them again, verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill , and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly” (John 10:1-10).

Thought for the week: “The Soul With Sunny Heart”

“God bless the soul with sunny heart who brightens up each day by spreading seeds of cheerfulness while travelling on life’s way. God bless him for the stars of hope He sets in each one’s sky; for the encouragements he gives that causes folk to try…with stronger faith to press ahead, with courage for a mate, and reach for goals, and build anew, and smile and challenge fate. God bless his laughter and his song that drives dark clouds away from troubled minds, and paints instead a rosy-tinted day. God bless the soul with sunny heart who’s found in life his place, and serves his God and fellow man with humble, gentle grace. The world has need of such a man who lifts the hearts from gloom, and in life’s barren places plants sweet flowers of love to bloom. He may serve as some men serve with fame or high degree… but his good deeds will ever shine throughout eternity.”

There will be a benefit program for Mrs. Jettie Mae Richardson sponsored by the Christian Harmonizers and the Union Baptist Church family held Sunday, Jan. 25 at 4 p.m. at Union Baptist Church in Marbury where the Rev. J. L. Alford is pastor. For more information contact: William Richardson at 755-9606 or (205) 438-7528. All choirs, groups and soloists are invited.

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with praise service of prayer, scripture and song by the senior choir. The scripture was read by Terry Nunn with prayer by Pastor Dukes. Songs sung: “Running For Jesus,” “God Is a Good God” and “It’s Your Season To Be Blessed.”

The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes. His theme: “A Complete Christian.” The message was part of a two-part series. It’s time out for playing church. How long, seasoned Christians, are you making progress? God is going to hold you responsible. Decision-making is a job a leader has to do. He considers many options.

Do you think you are a complete Christian? Cornelius had the characteristic of a Christian but no anointing; some qualification was needed to complete the process. Qualifications to consider: He was a man of character. He was strong and committed. He was devout. He was a governor; a man who gave to the people. He had influence, he feared God, and he encouraged folks. How many folks have you influenced? He was a man of prayer, the prayer to God always, he prayed with faith. Cornelius had stuff. Everything was in place, but something was missing.

Cornelius was a man of action; he carried out God’s instructions. God has instructions for your life. In fact, he has already ordered your steps. He won’t lead you into temptation, but was Cornelius saved? Good is not good enough, nice is not enough. Cornelius went to Joppa seeking Peter for answers. Good and nice are not qualifications for Christians; they are attributes. You must have Jesus.

The service concluded with the benediction and remarks by Pastor Dukes.

On our sick list this week we ask you to remember in your prayers: Linda Clay, Cammie Austin Stoudemire, Lee Anna Worthey, J. D. Scott, Nathaniel Shortridge, Joseph McCall, Sam and Vivian Hicks, William White, Luther Lee and Robert Robinson. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.