By Emily Agee

“If it had not been the Lord who was on our side, now may Israel say; if it had not been the Lord who was on our side, when men rose up against us. Then they had swallowed us up quick, when their wrath was kindled against us: Then the Waters had overwhelmed us, the stream had gone over our soul: Then the proud waters had gone over our soul. Blessed be the Lord, who hath not given us as a prey to their teeth. Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the Fowler’s: the snare is broken, and we are escaped. Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth” (Psalm 124:1-8).

Thought for the week: “Lay Your Burdens Down”

“Lay your burdens at the cross, leave them all with Him, though you suffer pain and loss, and your hope is slim. Though your heart is dark with sorrow, and you’re feeling low, God will see you through tomorrow, for He loves you so. Lay your troubles in His keep, leave them at His door, though the sea of life is deep, God is evermore. Though each mile is full of trial, and your troubles grow, God is with you all the while, as through life you go. Place yourself in Jesus’ hands, in His gracious care, He is Lord of all the lands, and He’s always there.”

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with praise service by the senior choir with songs, scripture and prayer. Songs sung were “He Is Sweet I Know,” “God Is My Everything,” “Lord Please Don’t Do It Without Me” and “Running For Jesus.” The scripture was read by Perry Nunn, with prayer by Pastor Dukes and Perry Nunn.

The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes with his theme “Running For My Life.” I want to see Christ, I will run while there is still time. Christians must be motivated to do certain things. You will want to do even the smallest things for others; enter the race by accepting Jesus. There will be obstacles but run by faith. Be a witness for Jesus; witness what God can do.

Job, Moses and David ran for Jesus. They had obstacles but overcame them. Tell people they too can make it. Hold on to your faith, be willing to do what you have to do. Seek Jesus while you are still young. Run with patience the race that is set before you. Live the life and never stop running. You won’t get tired — mount up on the wings of eagles and deal with your obstacles; keep going. Through it all if you stay with Christ you will make it. Jesus is at the finish line.

Fellowship was led by Pastor Dukes, Nunn, deacons and the congregation.

Our sympathy goes out to the family of Mrs. Jessie Grayson in their time of bereavement. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 23 at 2 p.m. at First Baptist Church in Calera. Agee Brothers Funeral Home directing.

On our sick list we ask you to remember in your prayers: Jerry Wilson, Lee Anna Worthey, Evelyn Austin, Margie Hardnette, Juanita Shirley, Joseph McCall, Sam and Vivian Hicks. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.