500125Postmaster: send change of address to:Baptist Progress, P.O. Box 2085, Waxahachie, Texas 75168

Official Publication of the Baptist Missionary Association of Texas • January 4, 2011 • Vol. 99 • No. 01

JBC continued on p. 4

Charles Spurgeon was born of Dutch ancestry in Kelvedon, Essex, England in 1834. His father and grandfather were pastors, and he was raised by a family that strictly adhered to the Scriptures. Despite knowing intellectually that Christ died for our sins, Charles was so aware of his own sins that he could not believe that Christ’s sacrifice applied to him. He believed that his sin was so great against God that he never hoped to have God’s forgiveness.

On January 6, 1850, when Charles was only fi fteen years old, God changed his life forever. As young Charles was walking to church, he suddenly found himself in the middle of a snowstorm; and he had to take refuge in a small church along his route. The congregation was sparse, and a lay preacher was fi lling in for the pastor. His text was Isaiah 45:22: “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” He challenged the congregation to look to Christ alone for salvation. He looked directly

at Charles and told him that if he would only look to Jesus, he would be saved. Charles said he had been waiting to do fi fty things, but with that one word, “look,” he suddenly understood that by looking to Christ, trusting in Christ, he would be saved. In that moment, he looked to Jesus, and he was saved. Charles kept looking to Jesus and went on to become the most famous preacher of his generation.

As the new president of Jacksonville College, my prayer is that our administration, faculty, staff, students and alumni, will look to Jesus as we work together to foster an environment that will challenge students academically and spiritually. I pray that we submit to God in all things, and that as we look to Him, He will bless the future of our great college.

LOOK at some of the needs of Jacksonville College, and pray about how God would have you become involved.

By MIKE SMITH, EdD, PhDPresident, Jacksonville College

Jacksonville College President Issues Challenge —“Look to Jesus”

You know, Christopher really made some outstanding discoveries on his way to India….too bad he never got there. Where was his fi rst stop (20 points)? What indigenous people greeted him (20 points)? For what country did Christopher claim this new land (20 points)? Who was Toussaint Louverture (20 points)? What is the fi rst black republic in the world (20 points)? Write down your score before continuing!!

In 1492 while sailing under the Spanish fl ag to India, Senor Columbus landed on the unknown island of Hispanola where he was met by the Arawak Indians. He claimed the land for Spain and the island became known as Haiti, the Arawak name for “Lord of the Mountains.”

When the French defeated the Spanish at the end of the 17th century, France began to exploit Haiti’s riches, mining its gold and shipping its sugarcane and coffee to Europe. The Arawak

Indians were ens laved for th i s purpose and, in a matter of a few years, this indigenous group became extinct; thus the introduction of African slaves.

I n 1 8 0 1 , T o u s s a i n t Louverture led the slaves in revolt against the French landowners. After a bloody, three-year war, the slaves declared their independence and the fi rst black republic was formed. It is said that on Jan. 1, 1804, a pig was sacrifi ced, Haiti was dedicated to Satan and the Voodoo system of religion was accepted.

By DR. JOHN LADDBMAA Medical Missionary to Mexico

Missionary On the Move

Dr. John Ladd

Missionary continued on p. 3

Fox News has reported that Christian groups are calling for a boycott of HBO after talk show host Bill Maher posted on Twitter obscene comments about Jesus and Tim Tebow, quarterback for the Denver Broncos. Dr. John Adams, executive director of Moral Action, an agency of the Baptist Missionary Association of America, said, “Any boycott of evil communication is good in the sight of God. The post is a despicable affront to the character of Tim Tebow via the evil mouth of Bill Maher.”

The executive director continued, “Bill Maher is an avowed atheist who despises all Christians. He will meet his Maker one day, the One who made heaven and earth.”

Adams reminded believers of their responsibility to pray for Maher’s conversion to Christ.

Concerning quarterback Tim Tebow, Dr. Adams said, “He is a breath of fresh air. May God increase his tribe. The witness of the Lord is enjoyable to hear, especially via national media.” The director concluded, “May we let Tim Tebow know via social media that we are proud of his stance for Christ.”

Moral Action Executive Director Responds to HBO Boycott

Tim Tebow

2 • January 4, 2012Editor

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It was Christmas Eve 2011. Shoppers fi lled the roadways while winding their way to the nearest department stores, malls and shopping centers to make last minute Christmas purchases. Some became angry when they were cut off in traffi c. There were those who grew incredibly impatient as it seemed like an eternity would pass before they would arrive at their destination. Others were giddy as they hurried, as quickly as possible, to take advantage of late hour sales.

Christmas was not always so chaotic. On the fi rst Christmas, in a stable, was born a little baby who was the very Author of life – Jesus, the Christ. He had come to set His people free from sin. The Heavenly Host fi lled the sky praising God as an angel appeared to shepherds in the nearby fi eld, proclaiming the good news of Christ’s birth. The angels were singing and shouting Hallelujahs to the newborn King that fi rst Christmas night.

In the world, there was no calamity that first Christmas. Instead, the earth was filled with a peace like it had not known since before Adam’s fall in the Garden of Eden. So, why on Christmas Eve 2011 was there so much hustle and bustle among the people of our nation? Why weren’t all the citizens of our country singing the Lord’s praises, as did the angels that fi rst Christmas?

Sadly, the behavior of our citizenry at Christmas was a refl ection of what we have allowed America to become – a secular, sinful society. Who would have thought that folks in Athens, Texas would be fi ghting for the right to display a nativity scene on their courthouse square? Who would have imagined that the governor of

Rhode Island would refuse to allow the Christmas tree displayed in his state’s capital to be referred to as a Christmas tree, calling it instead a “holiday tree?” Who could have fathomed that church buildings would be empty across our land on a day when all of them

should have been full?Oh how the angels must have cried when they

saw our behavior the night before Christmas 2011 as well as Christmas Day!

My prayer is that 2012 will be the year that we, as believers in America, will humble ourselves, pray, seek God’s face, and turn from our wicked ways. If we will, then we can claim the promise that the Lord will hear our prayers, forgive our sin, and heal our land.

Maybe 2012 will be the year that the Lord’s people demand that Christ be put back into Christmas, that prayer be put back in school, that the Ten Commandments be put back on courthouse walls and nativity scenes be put back on the courthouse square.

Together, we can stop abortion, gay marriages, drug trafficking and other perversions in our

country. But the only way these things can be accomplished is if we determine to be a people separated unto Christ. Instead of adapting to worldly behavior, we must once more decide to be the preserving infl uence.

By the time Christmas 2012 arrives, may the tears of the angels be dried and may their voices ring with praise to the Lord as they observe the obedience of God’s children in America. Let’s pray for revival!

The Angels Must Have Cried

EditorialBY JERRY FULTON

Every Sunday Bulletin Service Every Sunday Bulletin Service is now being offered through Baptist Progress!is now being offered through Baptist Progress!

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January 4, 2012 • 3Church Health

The Bible teaches the multiplication of leaders over and over again. It is not what many think though, because it is not about numbers but rather making disciples which involves leading them to Christ, teaching them and reproducing another leader. The last two weeks we have talked about accountability and support in this process. Today our word is encouragement. My goal is to encourage you not just to think about this or talk about it but to implement it into your life. We must be intentionally and strategically multiplying leaders.

Jesus communicated the gospel to all who would listen and several times spoke to thousands but He also worked very closely and intimately with a few. Christ’s overall plan was to invest into a small group of disciples, organize them into a functioning group of disciple makers, and then turn it over to them. The entire plan is as much about multiplying leaders as it is about fi nding followers. Peter, James, and John knew that for whatever reason, Jesus had chosen to pour even more effort and time into them than He did into the other disciples lives.

It stands to reason that as they observed what Jesus was doing with them that they must have thought, “If Jesus, the Son of God, has three close disciples, I imagine He wants us to do the same.” These men saw a clear strategy by Christ to empower a few who would empower others to change the world. Guess what? It worked! Multiplication stems directly from close relationships between a leader and a few disciples who are directed and trained to become leaders. A part of the

great commission is multiplying mission-capable leaders.Jesus had three He poured Himself into and those three

disciples realized that they should invest into three more disciples. This causes me to ask, “Do you have three you have won to Christ, discipled, and are now leading to be leaders themselves?” Another question begging to be asked is, “Do each one of those three disciples have three that they are discipling?” It is not as complicated as we have made it if we are willing to dedicate ourselves to doing what Jesus did. If most churches do not change the way they are presently doing ministry then their churches are doomed to settle for a slow decline and eventual death.

The four gospels spend much more time describing personal discipleship than they do on the times that Jesus was with the crowds. His example of what discipleship really is has turned a noun “disciple” into a verb. His actions have shown us what we need to be doing. Asking God to direct us toward three people that we can lead to Him, teach them what they need to know from the scriptures, and then have them reproduce what has happened in their lives. Repeatedly, Jesus showed the disciples what to do and then would encourage them to, “Go and do thou likewise.”

Allow me now to take the idea of multiplication to the next level. The tools of multiplication in the New Testament are evangelism, discipleship, and church planting. If you ever have the fi rst two without churches then you will quickly see believers becoming consumers and customers instead of disciples on mission. New churches being added to any

culture provides an unstoppable force for true transformation. The scriptures are clear; every church has been given the mandate to make disciples of all nations. This is a task that can only be accomplished by also multiplying churches.

Let us encourage one another not to only establish a beachhead in enemy territory by making disciples but also we must control the battlefi eld by multiplying churches. If we evangelize and disciple and do not plant more churches we have not completed our mission!

By LARRY BARKER

Multiplication PlusHebrews 10:25

Larry Barker is the operations director for North American Missions. For more information or to contact him, visit www.bmaamissions.org.

With a population of approximately 9 million, life expectancy of 47 years for males and 51 for women, adult illiteracy about 90% and average annual income of some $400, Haiti has a right to be known as one of the prohibited, plastic crate about half full of small, discarded boxes.

As soon as I met up with the other team members in Miami, I learned that their fi ve crates had been checked without any problem. (Remember that fact.)

After a short two-hour flight we were in Port-au-Prince International Airport. The airport system of claiming baggage is “unico” — you locate your baggage (which might be in a variety of locations), then head toward the “exit” where an offi cial usually wants to make sure your baggage stub numbers correspond to your bags.

You then keep walking, in hopes the custom agent doesn’t take a liking to you. Everyone was waltzing out the front door with no problems until the “other five plastic crates” were spotted by the customs agent. Nothing was said about my “special suitcase” full of treasures.

An even longer story abbreviated, one of our team members who had served in Haiti as missionary for a short time and spoke some Creole spent the entire fi ve days we were in Port-au-Prince trying to get our meds and supplies freed. But it never happened. We made trips to different government offi ces, fi lled out forms, wrote letters, gave explanations and “tips,” but still no medicine. Each day we were encouraged that “manana” we would receive

these additional treasures, but “manana” never came.The fi rst scheduled day of clinic was in a children’s home,

and we were able to work under a little handicap using the contents of the “discarded suitcase.” Since we were so sure we would receive the meds by noon of the second day, we cancelled the morning session; but by afternoon our hopes for success were pretty low, so we found a medicine distribution dealer and bought meds for “tomorrow.” The team was able to serve about 400 patients before returning to the U.S.

Soon after the 2010 earthquake that shook Port-Au-Prince and left hundreds dead and thousands homeless, we made a trip to Haiti. We saw numerous tent cities of “real tents” and other shelters consisting of a few poles with plastic stretched between them that were placed no more than 18” apart and served as homes for the homeless. Drinking water, sewer and sanitation were virtually nonexistent; unemployment and crime reigned supreme.

With these sights still very clearly in mind, I was “almost” sure we would fi nd very few changes on this trip. Much to my surprise, I was mistaken. There are still thousands living in tent cities, but we were told that is because many people from distant mountain villages (where there was no earthquake damage) learned that quarters are given housing. So the population of the tent cities continues to remain high although many of the original citizens have moved into their own small 20’ x 30’ plywood house of one room.

Much of the rubble from the earthquake has been removed and the streets are some better, but the traffi c is almost unbelievable — and so are the sanitary conditions. (Speaking of traffi c, it would take us 2 ½ to 3 hours to travel from our accommodations at a Mennonite compound to the different clinic locations or church on Sunday — a distance of 15 to 20 miles!)

Two days after returning from Haiti to Tyler, we flew to Mexico City and then bussed to Pachuca for a two day meeting with our Latin American director of missions and the other three American families serving in Mexico. It was a great time of fellowship and sharing.

From Pachuca we rode back to Aquismon, Mexico, with Ricky and Priss Williams (our missionary coworkers) for the last week of clinic before the Christmas holiday break and the annual clinic Christmas supper/gift exchange. (You don’t know what a Christmas party is until you experience one of those!)

After the church Christmas program on Sunday night, early Monday morning we caught another ride with the Williams back to Texas, where we will stay until Jan. 7 when we return to Aquismon for about 10 days of clinic work and the celebration of one of our Mexican granddaughter’s 15th birthday celebration. Known as quinceanos, it is the biggest and most important event next to their wedding in the life of a Latin American young lady.

Then on Jan. 20 we are both off to El Salvador. Such is the life of a missionary!

Missionary continued from p. 1

4 • January 4, 2012Leave It to Cleaver

The story of the Exodus is the central point of all the writings of Moses regarding the Hebrew people. Here a people were liberated from slavery to form a new nation. That doesn’t happen very often. Let us remember some of the highlights of this story.

I see some parallels in this story and the situations with many churches as they call a pastor, build a new structure, plan new outreach, add a staff member, or many other things. Let me share some of those obvious lessons with you. I know an example does not always fi t 100% into any application. I am not calling anyone bad to make them like Pharaoh, or trying to tell you who the army is who drowned. I am simply trying to encourage any congregation as they wait on the Lord to move with His people.

1. God does not follow our road map or timetable or GPS (Exodus 13:17-18).

Congregations might feel they have waited long enough, have a better map, or more accurate timetable. God follows His plan and follows it well.

2. God puts us in His best place to accomplish His purpose (Exodus 14:1-4).

“God where in the world did You fi nd this place? We need to be in that place over there.”

3. God’s people sometimes lose courage (Exodus 14:10-12).

Yes, in the face of seemingly overwhelming circumstances, all of us are faint of heart. We fi nd the ubiquitous they or them to blame.

4. God’s people need to be still to see God’s miracles (Exodus 14:13-14).

Most of the time, I feel I need to do something to help God. The best way to let God help me is to be still in His presence.

5. God will arrange and organize His deliverance

in an unusual way (Exodus 14:19-20).The Hebrew people had no idea what was coming.

We in churches cannot imagine the miracle God is preparing in our congregations.

6. God will deliver His people (Exodus 14:21-22).Certainly to look back after the water is crossed and

the enemy is dead, we can easily say, “I knew it all the time!” It is diffi cult to say that when the water is to the left and right of you. Nevertheless, we look back in history to have faith in the future of those things we cannot see and rest in assurance God is at work in our church.

Congregations must be still to see the work of God in their midst. Don’t lose courage; don’t be frightened. Don’t get angry at God because He is not doing what we want, when we want it done. Trust Him to lead us to the place we need to go—the best place He has for us.

Church Lessons from Exodus 13 and 14

Dr. Tony Cleaver has served in the U.S. Military, as a pastor, Religion Department Chair at Jacksonville College and as a counselor. Contact him at jstmcleaver@embarqmail.com, 726 Walnut Drive Killeen TX 76549 or 254-618-5998.

Specifi c NeedsWith 2012 rapidly approaching, Jacksonville College will need fi nancial help in completing a

number of projects, including the following: 1. Installing a Texas mandated crisis alert system (new phone system)2. Purchasing new white boards for the classrooms3. Building new dorms and classrooms4. Renovating present buildings5. Installing new fl ooring in the Meadows Building6. Purchasing a student information system (computer programming)7. Upgrading computers

Make checks payable to Jacksonville College Projects, and mail to:

Jacksonville College105 B. J. Albritton Dr.Jacksonville, TX 75766

JBC continued from p. 1

Hotel Room Rate

Reservation Deadline for Group Rate

Cabot Lodge2375 North State Street601-948-8650

$89 April 1

Hilton Garden Inn235 West Capitol Street601-969-8544 (ask for group sales)

Single &Double-$109Triple-$119Quad- $129

March 25

Marriott Downtown200 East Amite Street601-969-5100 (ask for reservations)

$119 March 16

Sleep Inn & Suites Downtown209 South Gallatin Street601-896-0390

Queen Double-$89.99King Standard- $89.99King Suite-$99.99

To ensure the group rates, please be sure to indicate that you are with the Baptist Missionary Association of America when calling to make your hotel reservations.

Recreational vehicles may be parked in a lot behind the convention center (no hookups). Camp sites with hookups are available at the Mississippi Coliseum (601-961-4000) or at Le Fleurs Bluff (601-987-3923)

BMAA Committee on ArrangementsCharles AtteberyLeon CarmicalJames Ray Raines

Hotel Information for 2012Baptist Missionary Association

of America Annual Meeting

April 16-18, 2012Jackson, Mississippi

The following hotels have agreed to offer group rates to those attending the 2012 BMAA meeting in Jackson, Mississippi April 16-18. The Hilton Garden Inn and Marriot have been designated as primary hotels.

January 4, 2012 • 5Family

By DR. TRAVIS PLUMLEE

I want to share some things for you to consider doing in 2012. It is a new year and it is time to make some changes for the better, and for God’s glory. You will not fi nd in this list, praying and Bible study. Those are things we should do every day, all day; just like breathing. It should be a natural part of our every day existence. Of course, if it isn’t, then you should defi nitely have that as a goal for 2012. And all of us can increase our prayer time and our personal study time in the Word. I’m just trying to give you some ideas outside of the usual new year’s goals of lose weight and take a class on something.

Here are a dozen ideas that you might consider doing in 2012. You can even post this article somewhere on your desk or in your bedroom and check the things off as you accomplish them. Remember, no matter what your new year’s goals are: do all for the glory of the Lord. I Corinthians 10:31

1. Hug more than ever before. Try to increase the amount of affection you give to those around you. We live in an ever increasing cold and uncaring world. We need to not only tell people that we love them, we need to show them. For some of you this will be a real challenge. But everyone can do it. Hug someone each day who means something to you.

2. Witness to someone. They may not accept Jesus as their savior, but you have to try. It is a command from God. We are to tell others who Jesus is, and that they need him. When was the last time you worked at leading someone to Jesus? Make it a goal in 2012.

3. Encourage others. I Thess. 5:11. No matter how much you encourage others, set out in 2012 to encourage all those around you. Start at home and spread outwardly.

Smiles, handshakes, hugs, visits, and most importantly some encouraging words. Build others up.

4. Let go of your anger. Set as a goal to not get angry over something at least once a week. It is simply a choice. It is something that you do actually get mad about, but instead of responding how you always have in the past with anger; you choose to withdraw and walk away. A soft answer turns away wrath. Being slow to anger is the best way to be. Pray for them. Bless them. And walk away. You will fi nd out that you can in fact control your anger. It is a choice. I will choose one thing each week to not go to world war III over. And keep growing from there.

5. Forgive someone this year. You will never have total healing until you practice forgiveness. Forgiveness is for you, not them. You can ask for it, text it, mail it or keep it in your heart privately but still give it to God. It frees you up. And we are required to do this one also. You will be happier and free of torment when you practice forgiveness.

6. Visit an older person. Have as a resolution to visit an elderly person on a regular basis throughout 2012. It doesn’t have to be weekly, although that would be amazing. Even just once a month would help end one of the cruelest realities in human existence- loneliness. It can be a relative or a total stranger in an apt or nursing home. It could be a shut in from your church. Drop by and say hi to a dear older person.

7. Mentor a young person. On a monthly basis, fi nd one or two young people that you can mentor. Pass on wisdom. Encourage. Do something with them. Older women and men are to teach the younger ones about life. Pray and pick out a kid at your church and just make it a point to go up and speak something nice to them each week. Add a smile.

8. Personal growth spiritually. Many people set goals of growing intellectually by learning something new. Set a goal to do something that causes you to grow spiritually anew. Study something different. Go somewhere. Increase your meditation and devotion time. You can’t go wrong when you grow right. Seek God for guidance.

9. Get a ministry. We all are suppose to serve Jesus by serving others. Find somewhere to serve others at least once a month. Be committed and do this. Don’t neglect the work.

10. Testify. At least once a week, tell someone -somewhere, how God has been good to you. Not just at church, tell a neighbor or co-worker. Make it a weekly habit to share that our God is good all the time. It increases our joy and encourages others to seek Him.

11. Laugh more. This will be hard. But enjoy life more with your family. Spend more time with them. Don’t be so serious all the time. Look for things to laugh about. It is good medicine according to scripture. Focus on people and love and laughter this year.

12. PTO. Personal Time Off. It is not selfi sh. It is self preservation. Once a day come apart, or you will fall apart. Build in a daily habit of relaxing, restoring and being quiet.

If you do these 12 things, you will have a great 2012. Now go make a great year for the glory of the Lord for He is worthy to be praised.

A Dozen Things To Do In 2012

Dr. Travis Plumlee is a full-time professional speaker and leads Family Ark Ministries.He is national board certifi ed as a therapist/specialist in various areas of human behavior.For more information or to contact him, visit www.travisplumlee.com.

6 • January 4, 2012BMA of Texas

The old year is passing and enormous challenges wait for us during 2012. As church leaders do you want to limp through the coming year or have a basic plan for self-improvement and then infl uence those around you to seek the next level of maturity?

I think we all want advance in self-improvement as we seek God’s will and guidance for our lives. Here are some thoughts that are helpful to me and may be helpful to you.

1. Continue the Learning Process. Regardless of your role in life, it is necessary to continue learning. It is said that knowledge in all the world doubles every fi ve years or less. Therefore, we have a great deal of knowledge to sort out and apply to daily living. Here are some guidelines:

Read the Bible every day, then study it thoroughly in order to • be a workman that is not ashamed.

Work on a new procedure of some kind—perhaps a new • computer program that will enhance your ministry or profession.

Read widely—books on theology, the economy, leadership • articles, current events, and the list is endless.

If you are a little ambitious about leadership, go to www.• achieveglobal.com and read the study about Developing the 21st Century Leader. It will challenge you and stretch your mind.

2. Work Smart. It is dangerous to think if we just work harder

then we can accomplish much more. With a mountain of work to do and the vast increase of knowledge, plus all the demands on ministry, then our time is valuable and it is necessary to use it wisely.

Keep a daily To Do List, with the things that I must do and • the things that I may do. Some days we can only do one or two major projects, thus it is very important to plan and work smart.

Check your email messages periodically and don’t let them • control your time. Recently I was away from my email messages for one week and discovered how few of them were necessary for a response. A good suggestion is to check your emails about every 90 minutes and this will give you time to concentrate on more important matters.

3. Plan Your Work and Work Your Plan. This is an idea that has been around for a long time but remains good advice.

Using your calendar and notepad, plan generally for a year.•

Plan a little more specifi c for six months.•

For three months you can be more specifi c.•

Then be very specifi c every week and every month.• 4. Value People. Our ministries involve people and by

valuing them, we will infl uence them with the Gospel and inspire them to seek Christ for salvation, and then live a righteous life.

Help someone every day.•

Encourage those around you to grow spiritually and increase in • their leadership ability.

Listen to others, they may have ideas about people and ministry • than you fi rst thought.

Learn how to connect with people in the church and in the • community.

These are just four simple ideas for a starting point. Be creative about your own individual spiritual growth and develop a plan for progress. Always be available to encourage the leaders you work with to grow to the next level.

My wish for you is to have a Happy New Year, and face the challenges with faith and optimism.

By JERRY BURNAMANExecutive Director, State Missions

New Year Challenges

Jacksonville College will host Jag Day 2012, our campus preview day, on Saturday, February 18. Tour the campus, and learn about scholarships and fi nancial aid opportunities. Find out about our admissions process and our academic programs, and learn about campus life. Audition for choir and theater scholarships, attend concerts by our choir and praise bands, and enjoy a free lunch and free admission to the evening homecoming basketball games. Activities begin at 9:00 a.m. in Buckner Chapel. RSVP by February 15, 2012, to Danny Morris, Director of Admissions, at 903-586-2518 or admissions@jacksonville-college.edu. More information at www.gotojbc.com.

January 4, 2012 • 7BMA of Texas

Everyone is invited to Enon Missionary Baptist Church on Jan. 8, 2012 to help us celebrate the fortieth anniversary of Dr. Ray Thompson and wife, Maeva, as pastor of Enon. To be our pastor for 40 years is such a milestone and we praise the Lord for them and want them to know how much we love and appreciate them.

The special day will begin with the morning service at 11 a.m., followed by a lunch in their honor. Special singing will begin at 1:30 p.m. with the celebration beginning at 2 p.m. There will be several guest speakers with Bro Fred Morrow bringing the afternoon message. A reception will follow.

Everyone is encouraged to attend this very special event, as we Praise the Lord for His man that has answered the call to this church for 40 years. Enon is located 6 miles NW of Gilmer at the corner of FM 852 and FM 556. For more information, you may contact Bro. Randy Stracener at 903-762-6338 or Bro. Doyle Woodlief at 903-725-3098.

Enon Baptist Church Plans 40th Anniversary for Pastor

East Texas Mission District

Called Business MeetingJanuary 12, 2012

7:00 PMABS on TJC Campus

Churches of the Cherokee, Smith, Van Zant, Wood counties

are urged to have a representative present at this meeting.

Ladies Meeting Speaker: Cathy McClungMusic will be led by Chris Reese

Monday, February 6, 201211:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. - Register1:00 p.m. - Sing and Welcome1:35 p.m. - Jeff Julian2:10 p.m. - Sing2:25 p.m. - Tommy Oglesby3:10 p.m. - Break-Coffee-Fellowship4:00 p.m. - Sing4:25 p.m. - Marty Claiborne5:00 p.m. - Break for FISH FRY6:30 p.m. Sing6:45 p.m. - Sing6:55 p.m. - Robbie Caldwell7:30 p.m. - Sing8:00 p.m. - Jerry Fulton8:30 p.m. - Dismissal

Tuesday, February 7, 20127:15 a.m. - Breakfast at Church8:30 a.m. - Sing-Scripture-Prayer8:30 a.m. - Ladies Meeting 8:45 a.m. - Men’s Share Time9:45 a.m. - Break 10:00 a.m. - Sing10:10 a.m. - Bill Whitaker10:35 a.m. - Sing10:45 a.m. - Jay Miller11:00 a.m. - Sing11:10 a.m. - Steve Minter11:35 a.m. - Dismissal

Lodging ListingsBelow you will fi nd a listing of hotels/motels which we feel that we can recomment

to you:

Hampton Inn and Suites 903-572-7100 $79.00 + tax Contact: Katie2504 W Ferguson Rd

Holiday Inn Express 903-577-3800 $89.00 + tax Contact: Marybelle2306 Greenhill Rd. (I-30, exit 62)

LaQuinta Inn and Suites 903-572-5514 $69.00 + tax Contact: Courtney 1620 Rotan Ave.

Please call soon to reserve your room. Also please mention Calvary Baptist Church and Northeast Texas Pastors Conference when you call and ask for your contact person.

Calvary Baptist Church is located at 2202 N. Edwards St. in Mt. Pleasant, TX 75455. If you need help with directions you may e-mail Betty Reese - betty.reese46@yahoo.com or call the church at 903-572-7677 or call our pastor, Bro. Charles Newman, at 903-573-3700.

You Are Invited To Attendthe 27th Annual Northeast Texas

Pastors, Laymen and Wives Conference

Calvary Baptist ChurchMt. Pleasant, Texas

February 6-7, 2012

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.

Philippians 4:13

8 • January 4, 2012Bible Reading Plan

Read Through the Bible in One YearJan 1: Gen 1-3Jan 2: Gen 4-7Jan 3: Gen 8-11Jan 4: Gen 12-15Jan 5: Gen 16-18Jan 6: Gen 19-21Jan 7: Gen 22-24Jan 8: Gen 25-26Jan 9: Gen 27-29Jan 10: Gen 30-31Jan 11: Gen 32-34Jan 12: Gen 35-37Jan 13: Gen 38-40Jan 14: Gen 41-42Jan 15: Gen 43-45Jan 16: Gen 46-47Jan 17: Gen 48-50Jan 18: Ex 1-3Jan 19: Ex 4-6Jan 20: Ex 7-9Jan 21: Ex 10-12Jan 22: Ex 13-15Jan 23: Ex 16-18Jan 24: Ex 19-21Jan 25: Ex 22-24Jan 26: Ex 25-27Jan 27: Ex 28-29Jan 28: Ex 30-32Jan 29: Ex 33-35Jan 30: Ex 36-38 Jan 31: Ex 39-40Feb 1: Lev 1-4Feb 2: Lev 5-7Feb 3: Lev 8-10Feb 4: Lev 11-13Feb 5: Lev 14-15Feb 6: Lev 16-18Feb 7: Lev 19-21Feb 8: Lev 22-23Feb 9: Lev 24-25Feb 10: Lev 26-27Feb 11: Num 1-2Feb 12: Num 3-4Feb 13: Num 5-6Feb 14: Num 7Feb 15: Num 8-10Feb 16: Num 11-13Feb 17: Num 14-15Feb 18: Num 16-17Feb 19: Num 18-20Feb 20: Num 21-22Feb 21: Num 23-25Feb 22: Num 26-27Feb 23: Num 28-30Feb 24: Num 31-32Feb 25: Num 33-34Feb 26: Num 35-36Feb 27: Deut 1-2Feb 28/29: Deut 3-4Mar 1: Deut 5-7Mar 2: Deut 8-10

Mar 3: Deut 11-13Mar 4: Deut 14-16Mar 5: Deut 17-20Mar 6: Deut 21-23Mar 7: Deut 24-27Mar 8: Deut 28-29Mar 9: Deut 30-31Mar 10: Deut 32-34Mar 11: Josh 1-4Mar 12: Josh 5-8Mar 13: Josh 9-11Mar 14: Josh 12-15Mar 15: Josh 16-18Mar 16: Josh 19-21Mar 17: Josh 22-24 Mar 18: Jud 1-2 Mar 19: Jud 3-5 Mar 20: Jud 6-7 Mar 21: Jud 8-9 Mar 22: Jud 10-12 Mar 23: Jud 13-15 Mar 24: Jud 16-18 Mar 25: Jud 19-21 Mar 26: RuthMar 27: 1Sam 1-3 Mar 28: 1Sam 4-8 Mar 29: 1Sam 9-12 Mar 30: 1Sam 13-14 Mar 31: 1Sam 15-17 Apr 1: 1Sam 18-20 Apr 2: 1Sam 21-24 Apr 3: 1Sam 25-27 Apr 4: 1Sam 28-31 Apr 5: 2Sam 1-3 Apr 6: 2Sam 4-7 Apr 7: 2Sam 8-12 Apr 8: 2Sam 13-15 Apr 9: 2Sam 16-18 Apr 10: 2Sam 19-21 Apr 11: 2Sam 22-24 Apr 12: 1King 1-2 Apr 13: 1King 3-5 Apr 14: 1King 6-7 Apr 15: 1King 8-9 Apr 16: 1King 10-11 Apr 17: 1King 12-14 Apr 18: 1King 15-17 Apr 19: 1King 18-20 Apr 20: 1King 21-22 Apr 21: 2King 1-3 Apr 22: 2King 4-5 Apr 23: 2King 6-8 Apr 24: 2King 9-11 Apr 25: 2King 12-14 Apr 26: 2King 15-17 Apr 27: 2King 18-19 Apr 28: 2King 20-22 Apr 29: 2King 23-25 Apr 30: 1Chron 1-2 May 1: 1Chron 3-5May 2: 1Chron 6

May 3: 1Chron 7-8May 4: 1Chron 9-11May 5: 1Chron 12-14May 6: 1Chron 15-17May 7: 1Chron 18-21May 8: 1Chron 22-24May 9: 1Chron 25-27May 10: 1/2Chron 28-1May 11: 2Chron 2-5May 12: 2Chron 6-8May 13: 2Chron 9-12May 14: 2Chron 13-17May 15: 2Chron 18-20May 16: 2Chron 21-24May 17: 2Chron 25-27May 18: 2Chron 28-31May 19: 2Chron 32-34May 20: 2Chron 35-36May 21: Ezra 1-3May 22: Ezra 4-7May 23: Ezra 8-10May 24: Neh 1-3May 25: Neh 4-6May 26: Neh 7May 27: Neh 8-9May 28: Neh 10-11May 29: Neh 12-13May 30: Est 1-5May 31: Est 6-10Jun 1: Job 1-4Jun 2: Job 5-7Jun 3: Job 8-10Jun 4: Job 11-13Jun 5: Job 14-16Jun 6: Job 17-20Jun 7: Job 21-23Jun 8: Job 24-28Jun 9: Job 29-31Jun 10: Job 32-34Jun 11: Job 35-37Jun 12: Job 38-39Jun 13: Job 40-42Jun 14: Ps 1-8Jun 15: Ps 9-16Jun 16: Ps 17-20Jun 17: Ps 21-25Jun 18: Ps 26-31Jun 19: Ps 32-35Jun 20: Ps 36-39Jun 21: Ps 40-45Jun 22: Ps 46-50Jun 23: Ps 51-57Jun 24: Ps 58-65Jun 25: Ps 66-69Jun 26: Ps 70-73Jun 27: Ps 74-77Jun 28: Ps 78-79Jun 29: Ps 80-85Jun 30: Ps 86-89Jul 1: Ps 90-95Jul 2: Ps 96-102

Jul 3: Ps 103-105Jul 4: Ps 106-107Jul 5: Ps 108-114Jul 6: Ps 115-118Jul 7: Ps 119:1-88Jul 8: Ps 119:89-176Jul 9: Ps 120-132Jul 10: Ps 133-139Jul 11: Ps 140-145Jul 12: Ps 146-150Jul 13: Prov 1-3Jul 14: Prov 4-6Jul 15: Prov 7-9Jul 16: Prov 10-12Jul 17: Prov 13-15Jul 18: Prov 16-18Jul 19: Prov 19-21Jul 20: Prov 22-23Jul 21: Prov 24-26Jul 22: Prov 27-29Jul 23: Prov 30-31Jul 24: Ecc 1-4Jul 25: Ecc 5-8Jul 26: Ecc 9-12Jul 27: SolomonJul 28: Is 1-4Jul 29: Is 5-8Jul 30: Is 9-12Jul 31: Is 13-17Aug 1: Is 18-22Aug 2: Is 23-27Aug 3: Is 28-30Aug 4: Is 31-35Aug 5: Is 36-41Aug 6: Is 42-44Aug 7: Is 45-48Aug 8: Is 49-53Aug 9: Is 54-58Aug 10: Is 59-63Aug 11: Is 64-66Aug 12: Jer 1-3Aug 13: Jer 4-6Aug 14: Jer 7-9Aug 15: Jer 10-13Aug 16: Jer 14-17Aug 17: Jer 18-22Aug 18: Jer 23-25Aug 19: Jer 26-29Aug 20: Jer 30-31Aug 21: Jer 32-34Aug 22: Jer 35-37Aug 23: Jer 38-41Aug 24: Jer 42-45Aug 25: Jer 46-48Aug 26: Jer 49-50Aug 27: Jer 51-52Aug 28: Lam 1-3:36Aug 29: Lam 3:37-5Aug 30: Ezek 1-4Aug 31: Ezek 5-8Sep 1: Ezek 9-12

Sep 2: Ezek 13-15Sep 3: Ezek 16-17Sep 4: Ezek 18-20Sep 5: Ezek 21-22Sep 6: Ezek 23-24Sep 7: Ezek 25-27Sep 8: Ezek 28-30Sep 9: Ezek 31-33Sep 10: Ezek 34-36Sep 11: Ezek 37-39Sep 12: Ezek 40-42Sep 13: Ezek 43-45Sep 14: Ezek 46-48Sep 15: Dan 1-3Sep 16: Dan 4-6Sep 17: Dan 7-9Sep 18: Dan 10-12Sep 19: Hos 1-7Sep 20: Hos 8-14Sep 21: JoelSep 22: Amos 1-5Sep 23: Amos 6-9Sep 24: Oba-JonahSep 25: MicahSep 26: NahumSep 27: Hab-ZephSep 28: HaggaiSep 29: Zech 1-7Sep 30: Zech 8-14Oct 1: MalachiOct 2: Matt 1-4Oct 3: Matt 5-6Oct 4: Matt 7-8Oct 5: Matt 9-10Oct 6: Matt 11-12Oct 7: Matt 13-14Oct 8: Matt 15-17Oct 9: Matt 18-19Oct 10: Matt 20-21Oct 11: Matt 22-23Oct 12: Matt 24-25Oct 13: Matt 26Oct 14: Matt 27-28Oct 15: Mark 1-3Oct 16: Mark 4-5Oct 17: Mark 6-7Oct 18: Mark 8-9Oct 19: Mark 10-11Oct 20: Mark 12-13Oct 21: Mark 14Oct 22: Mark 15-16Oct 23: Luke 1Oct 24: Luke 2-3Oct 25: Luke 4-5Oct 26: Luke 6-7Oct 27: Luke 8-9Oct 28: Luke 10-11Oct 29: Luke 12-13Oct 30: Luke 14-16Oct 31: Luke 17-18Nov 1: Luke 19-20

Nov 2: Luke 21-22Nov 3: Luke 23-24Nov 4: John 1-2Nov 5: John 3-4Nov 6: John 5-6Nov 7: John 7-8Nov 8: John 9-10Nov 9: John 11-12Nov 10: John 13-15Nov 11: John 16-18Nov 12: John 19-21Nov 13: Acts 1-3Nov 14: Acts 4-6Nov 15: Acts 7-8Nov 16: Acts 9-10Nov 17: Acts 11-13Nov 18: Acts 14-15Nov 19: Acts 16-17Nov 20: Acts 18-20Nov 21: Acts 21-23Nov 22: Acts 24-26Nov 23: Acts 27-28Nov 24: Rom 1-3Nov 25: Rom 4-7Nov 26: Rom 8-10Nov 27: Rom 11-13Nov 28: Rom 14-16Nov 29: 1Cor 1-4Nov 30: 1Cor 5-8Dec 1: 1Cor 9-11Dec 2: 1Cor 12-14Dec 3: 1Cor 15-16Dec 4: 2Cor 1-4Dec 5: 2Cor 5-9Dec 6: 2Cor 10-13Dec 7: Gal 1-3Dec 8: Gal 4-6Dec 9: Eph 1-3Dec 10: Eph 4-6Dec 11: PhilippiansDec 12: ColossiansDec 13: 1ThessDec 14: 2ThessDec 15: 1TimothyDec 16: 2TimothyDec 17: Titus-PhilemonDec 18: Heb 1-6Dec 19: Heb 7-10Dec 20: Heb 11-13Dec 21: JamesDec 22: 1PeterDec 23: 2PeterDec 24: 1JohnDec 25: 2John-JudeDec 26: Rev 1-3Dec 27: Rev 4-8Dec 28: Rev 9-12Dec 29: Rev 13-16Dec 30: Rev 17-19Dec 31: Rev 20-22

January 4, 2012 • 9Auxiliaries

The year 2012 is here. My how time fl ies when you’re busy serving the Lord through WMA! Your state WMA offi cers are already planning each of their offi ce goals. Alicia Johnson, second vice president, has announced the theme for the year, “Soldiers of the Lord,” using Ephesians 6:11; 14-18. Paula Dosser, project promoter, will be promoting the new project, 90% “River of Blessings Ministry,” the Amazon Bible Institute in Bolivia; 10% Youth Fund.

The institute is in need of beds, bedding, dining area furniture, cooking utensils and operation costs as well as improvements on the boat to upgrade equipment. Everyone begin praying and thinking now of how we can help this missions project.

After the Thanksgiving and Christmas season many people are stressed mentally, physically and financially. When all three of these areas are included, you can be sure that spiritual health is affected as well. You have to ask yourself these questions: “Was all that I did necessary?” Who was I trying to impress, friends, family, co-workers?”

While there is nothing wrong with giving and doing your best, you can sometimes become overwhelmed with all the trappings of the holidays and put on the back burner the most important one of all — God. Some have a “perfectionist personality” that drives one to have everything perfect and in order. There must be a happy medium of what has to be done and what can be left undone. When you stretch your body to the limit, neglecting nourishment and rest, it rebels leaving you tired, cranky and unfulfi lled.

You must take care of the body God has given you. It is the temple of the Holy Spirit and it needs kept in good working and thinking order to accomplish the tasks God has given you to do for Him. You must eat and exercise properly and develop a consistent sleep pattern.

To nurture your spiritual health, start each day with prayer and quiet time with the Lord. Take a small New Testament or devotional book with you to read when standing in line at a store. Even wearing a Christian T-shirt can spark interest in someone nearby and can lead to conversation about your faith in Christ. Do not try to do all your planned tasks

yourself. Learn to delegate and give others a chance to use their

talents and be a blessing to you. The best stress buster you can have is God’s joy! He gives us His strength so we can serve Him and minister to others. Read a portion of Psalms and Proverbs everyday. We must seek and receive the joy of the Lord day by day. God tells us that “A merry heart doeth good like a medicine.”

If you have God’s joy in your heart, it should show in your face. Frowning takes a lot of energy and uses 72 muscles. Smiling only takes 14! You cannot store up real God-given joy. It has to be shared. This is how we will win the lost to Christ.

One of the greatest testimonies we have is the joy of the Lord. Someone said, “Happiness comes and goes with circumstances, but real joy and contentment comes from a relationship with God.” This could be called the miracle medicine and is of far greater value than gold. If you knew the cure for a dreaded disease, would you not share it? The joy of the Lord is there not only to strengthen us spiritually, but it is also transferred to us physically because it gives a totally different outlook on life. It will make people ask, “What is the reason for the hope that is within you?”

Life is meaningless without joy and is only found in Jesus. Why not start this New Year with joy! God does not reveal the future. It is lived one day at a time and is fi lled with great anticipation. We will be making resolutions, making plans and meeting demands that will change and challenge us.

The Apostle Paul knew about change and challenge, opposition and persecution. But he faced it all with joy knowing what was waiting for him when his struggles were over. He had a sense of duty and determination understanding his destiny. He believed what he wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 -- “For our light affl iction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.”

A Formula for a Happy New Year

H—Humble and Meek: “Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God that He may exalt you in due time.” (I Peter 5:6)

A—Abounding in Love: “And this I pray, that your love may abound more in knowledge and in all judgment” (Philippians 1:9).

P—Prayerful: “Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God” (Philippians 4:6).

P—Putting Christ First: “That in all things he might have the preeminence” (Colossians1:18).

Y—Yielding to God: “Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin; but yield yourselves unto God” (Romans 6:13).

N—Never Failing in Faith: “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench the fi ery darts of the wicked” (Ephesians 6:16).

E—Established in God’s Word: “I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up” (Acts 20:32).

W—Winning Souls: “The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he that winneth souls is wise” (Proverbs 11:30).

Y—Yearning for Christ’s Coming: “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ” (Titus 2:13).

E—Edifying God’s People: “Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another” (Romans 14:19).

A—Abiding in Christ: “I am the vine, ye are the branches: he that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit” (John 15:5).

R—Rejoicing in the Lord: “Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say rejoice” (Philippians 4:4).

By SHARON COLEEditor, Texas WMA

Happy New Year From Texas WMA Officers

Sharon Cole is the editor for the Texas WMA. Contact her at S9Co@aol.com. For more information on the Texas WMA, visit www.texaswma.com.

10 • January 4, 2012

Church SS Worship Additions

Anthony Drive, Ennis 90

Cedar Creek, Teague 34

Davis Street, Sulphur Springs 98

Elwood, Wills Point 62

First, Judson 121 1 by baptism, 1 by letter

Glade Creek, Gilmer 55

Jackson, Joaquin 84

Merriman Hills, Sherman 18

New Haven, Dallas 22

Pilgrim Rest #2, Golden 85

Pine Brook, Tyler 38 1 by baptism, 1 by letter

Rosewood, Gilmer 151

Security Calvary, Cleveland 7 17

Beautiful Acres, Scurry 36

Yellowpine Macedonia, Hemphill 15 20

Church SS Worship Additions

Anthony Drive, Ennis 46 90 1 profession of faith

Elwood, Wills Point 38 101

First, Blooming Grove 227

First, Judson 81 154

First, New Summerfi eld 34 47

First, Palmer 50 92

Glade Creek, Gilmer 17 41

Jackson, Joaquin 77 90

Little Mound, Big Sandy 46 73

New Harmony, Tyler 233 315

New Haven, Dallas 40 57 1 profession of faith

Pilgrim Rest #2, Golden 81 93

Pine Brook, Tyler 25 51

Rosewood, Gilmer 97 147

Security Calvary, Cleveland 30 39

Suburban Wood, Humble 44 57

Temple, Mexia 34 46

Tundra, Canton 99 135

Jackson, Canton 44 852 by letter,

2 professions of faith

BMA of Texas

Events Personnel & Positions

Want to Make a Gift That

Keeps Giving?The Lifeword Foundation provides

that opportunity. Your gift is never spent, it is invested and only the earnings are used to help carry the Gospel around the world. Your gift keeps giving until the Lord returns. For more information, call the LifeWord Development Offi ce at 501-472-2183.

Pastor & Staff Changes

Churches in Review

December 25, 2011

December 18, 2011APRIL 16-18, 2012BMA of America @ Jackson, Mississippi Convention Center

EVERY THIRD THURSDAYTexas Baptist Home Birth Mom Support GroupThe Oaks Fellowship777 South I35 E, Red OakContact: Megan Baldwin at 972-937-1321

HEATH MITCHELL has resigned as music and youth minister at Walnut Street, Winnsboro to become pastor of Myrtle Springs, Quitman.

AVAILABLE POSITIONS

PASTOR—Antioch, Gilmer is seeking a pastor. Contact or send resume to any of following: P.O. Box 688, Gilmer, Texas 75644; jedwhitaker@yahoo.com; 903-431-2456.

PASTOR—Richmond Road Baptist Church is seeking a Pastor. Resumes may be submitted to : Mike Hazelbaker, Chairman Pastor Search, Richmond Road Baptist Church, 5805 Richmond Road, Texarkana, Texas 75503 or by email rrbc@windstream.net.

PASTOR—Friendship, Seven Points (Cedar Creek Lake Area) is seeking a bi-vocational pastor. Send resume to fmbcsevenpoints@aol.com or contact Tim Thompson at 214-316-7341.

PASTOR—Hubbard Chapel, Quitman is seeking a bi-vocational pastor. Send resume, references, and if available, a recorded sermon to Hubbard Chapel Baptist Church, ATTN: Lynn Kernes, P.O. Box 1520, Quitman, Texas 75783 or email elkernes@yahoo.com.

PASTOR—Pecan, Robert Lee is seeking a bi-vocational pastor. Contact Bill Hood, P.O. Box 724, Robert Lee, Texas 76945 or 325-453-2065.

Heath Mitchell to be Ordained

Walnut Street, Winnsboro invites all ordained men and friends of Heith Mitchell to attend his ordination service on Jan. 22, 2012 at 3 p.m. He has been called as the pastor of Myrtle Springs, Quitman and would be encouraged by your attendance if possible.

1. Who was hovering over the face of the waters when God began His creative acts?(a) the Spirit of God(b) Lucifer; or(c) Michael the archangel 2. Who was Adam and Eve’s fi rst son?(a) Abel(b) Seth(c) Cain 3. From which son of Noah was Abram descended?(a) Ham(b) Shem(c) Japheth Answers will be provided in our next issue.

January 4, 2012 • 11Sunday School Lessons

By GARY HOUSEBy GARY HOUSE

HALL FURNITURE LTD.

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P.O. Box 157(1321 Industrial Dr.)Henderson, TX 75653

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Gary House is the writer of the Sunday school lessons for Baptist Progress. He serves as pastor of Tundra Baptist Church in Canton. Contact him at Tundraparson@aol.com.

DATE: January 8, 2012TEXT: Luke 19: 1-10LESSON IN BRIEF: Sin puts every person at a spiritual disadvantage. Jesus reached out in love to the spiritually challenged – the lost, the wicked, the sinner. Accept Jesus’ invitation to a better life (Luke 19:10).

This Bible story reveals not only a sinner who found himself literally up a tree, but also the deep love and concern of the Savior who knew how to deal with the sin that had put him there. We see the ability of Jesus, not only to reach down to the down and out, but also to reach up to the up and out. Jesus can save a person without regard to their station in life.

We meet a small man, too short to see over the crowd. His name is Zacchaeus, an abbreviation of Zechariah, meaning “the righteous one”-- a big name to live up to. The name is inconsistent for Zacchaeus, since he is the chief tax collector in Jericho, and tax collectors were notorious for cheating the general public to fatten their pockets. They would assess a tax, and if the person refused to pay or called it unfair, Herod’s soldiers would threaten him.

Zacchaeus is short, wealthy, and hated (verses 2-4). But he is also curious. He hears that Jesus is coming through town and is determined to see him. One evidence of his earnestness and resourcefulness is the fact that he runs ahead to where he knows Jesus will pass. The folks had heard of Jesus in Jericho – this miracle worker… prophet… King. Zacchaeus fi nds a large tree, and therein establishes a reconnaissance outpost where he will be able to see Jesus without attracting unwanted attention. He climbed that sycamore tree, and waited and watched. He wanted to see Jesus. It was not every day that something this big happened in Jericho! Jesus and his followers would be passing through.

Zacchaeus is a sinner (verse 7). Sin is the real problem. It is not his shortness of stature that prevented him from being God’s child, but his shortness of spirit. Anyone who has not turned from their sins and received Christ into their heart as Lord and Master is in the same condition as Zacchaeus. The Bible says, “For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23). There is good news for those who fi nd themselves spiritually short. Isaiah 59:1, “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:”

Zacchaeus’ physical shortness is representative of his inability and insuffi ciency in approaching a holy God (verse 10). Please don’t miss the Holy Spirit’s point in mentioning this detail. The only way Zacchaeus was able to meet Jesus was by going to the sycamore tree. The tree is still the only place the lost sinner can meet the Savior. By faith, trusting Christ’s fi nished work on the cross is the only means of salvation from one’s sins.

You know the story, Jesus came by, stopped right at Zacchaeus, and said, “Come down. I must abide at thy house today,”and he did. “So he came down at once and welcomed Him joyfully.” Notice that Jesus was already aware of Zacchaeus’ presence. Jesus always knows right where the sinner is. He walked right up to the very tree where he was perched and spoke to him. However, Jesus was not interested in mere acquaintance, but in abiding. Jesus wanted to relate to Zacchaeus on a personal level. One must come to know Christ experientially. It’s not enough to believe that Jesus lived historically. You must turn from your sins and receive Him into your heart.

Zaccheus repents (verse 8). He came to terms with his sin. It’s implied and obvious in the passage that

Jesus impacted his life. So much so, that he repented. He made restoration for wrongs he had done. He was changed, he would never be the same – because Jesus took the time to sit with him, to love on him, and to show him the way..

Look at Zacchaeus’ reaction to the criticism and shame he is bringing on his guest. First, he stands up, indicating probably that he had fallen to his knees before Jesus. Next, he offers to give half his possessions to the poor. It is wonderfully refreshing to see such repentance by a man who realizes that his life must change or it will bring discredit upon his guest. Zacchaeus’ acts of repentance were both genuine and required if he is to remove from Jesus the shame of associating with him. Isn’t it wonderful that Jesus takes our shame upon himself willingly, waiting, hoping that we will understand and repent. What grace! What mercy! Love changes people. Jesus’ love changes us. Our love for others can bring change to them.TRUTHS TO APPLY:

1. The insignifi cant to us may be signifi cant to Jesus. Jericho - just a little stop on the way – but Jesus saw the ministry opportunity. The disciples likely didn’t understand: “We’ve got to get to Jerusalem! We need to hurry through this little town.” But this town had people, it had lost souls, it had Zacchaeus – ready for the gospel. Are you open to God’s moving in the insignifi cant areas of your life. Let’s open our eyes-what is insignifi cant to us may be signifi cant to God.

2. Jesus always has time to minister (verses 5-6). To you, in your need. Yes, He holds the world in place.. But he loves you. He wants to love on you and teach you and hold you when you need him. Jesus says he “must” come to dinner! Now! Immediately! We might think of this as presumptuous and rude. But Zacchaeus is overjoyed. Here he was, a social outcast being offered the opportunity to host one of the most famous men in the country. Of course, he is happy. He scrambles down the tree and welcomes Jesus. The word welcome means “to receive hospitably, entertain as a guest.” He’s got time for you! He hears! He Cares!

3. The Son of Man doesn’t really care what the self-righteous think (verse 7). They were offended that a religious leader like Jesus would dare go to the house of a sinner. Jesus did not respond, did not explain himself, He just went. He cared about reaching a lost world, about what was most important, about transparent, loving, real religion – not external white-washed self-righteous piety. Jesus is a friend of sinners – for He reached out to me, a great sinner, and as a friend offered me salvation, forgiveness of my sins. Praise God!

Isn’t it wonderful that Jesus takes our shame upon himself willingly, waiting, hoping that we will understand and repent. What grace! What mercy! Love changes people. Jesus’ love changes us. Our love for others can bring change to them.

4. Jesus’ mind was on His mission, never doubt. His mission is big enough for the whole world, for He did die on the cross for all who will accept Him. But His mission was not too big to care for one little soul, in a little insignifi cant town that he was passing through. And Jesus always takes the time to love you and minister to you, and offer you forgiveness and to offer you a new life. He loves you that much. No one is beyond redemption and repentance, even those whom we see as gross sinners. Don’t judge a book by its cover. That worldly sinner that you work with, that you see every day, that neighbor, may not be as evil as you think… they may be a Zacchaeus, just waiting for a Savior. Just ask Zacchaeus!

Spiritually Challenged

DATE: January15, 2012TEXT: John 3:1-16LESSON IN BRIEF: No amount of goodness (religion) is good enough to establish a relationship with God or to get us to Heaven.

TRUTHS TO BE LEARNED FROM NICODEMUS1. He was lost in spite of his sincere religious

faith. The traits of a Pharisee included a strong faith in one true and living God, an unwavering obedience to the Law of the Old Testament, uncompromising morals, a fi rm belief in the resurrection of the body.

If you want one word that would describe Nicodemus, it would be this: He was good! He was very good! But he still had this nagging question that his religion could not seem to answer. So he comes to Jesus to ask his question. Nicodemus saw something in Jesus that all his religious rule keeping hadn’t been able to provide. He saw LIFE! It was as if God was pouring out life through Jesus.

The core of what he wanted to know from Jesus was this: “Jesus, is my goodness, good enough to get me into Heaven? Is my goodness good enough to make me acceptable to a Holy God?” Don’t we all want to ask Jesus that question?

When it comes to getting into Heaven, it doesn’t matter how many good works we are able to perform. It doesn’t matter how much money we give to Christian causes, how many church services we attend, how many quiet times we have, how many underprivileged kids we support. No one gets to Heaven by being a “good person”! Nicodemus had devoted his life to being good, trying to live up to the standards his religion said he had to meet in order to please God and to win a place in Heaven. And he did it relatively well, better than most. He was a very good person. And he comes to Jesus pointing at his goodness asking, “Is it good enough?” And Jesus says, with compassion: “NO... No one can get to heaven by being good because no one can ever be good enough! You are going to have to go about it another way!”

We are, in many ways, like Nicodemus. We may know many beautiful hymns of praise and prayer. We may listen to many sermons preached, that rightly divide the Word and Truth of God. But if we fail to continuously go to the foot of the Cross, and confess our sins before God, then we remain a religious sinner.

2. HE WAS LOST IN SPITE OF HIS HIGH RELIGIOUS OFFICE. Nicodemus was somebody rather special in Jewish society. He was a Pharisee, the aristocracy of Jerusalem. The name Pharisee means “the separated one”, and the Pharisees were those who had separated themselves from all ordinary life in order to keep every detail of the law of Moses, as worked out over the centuries by the Scribes. Their goal in life was the formal observance of religion, not a spiritual walk with God, but a holier-than-thou attitude.

Nicodemus was a member of the Sanhedrin, which was the supreme council, and tribunal of the Jews headed by a High Priest. The Sanhedrin had jurisdiction over all religious, civil and criminal matters pertaining to the Jewish citizenry.

3. HE WAS LOST IN SPITE OF HIS SPIRITUAL AWARENESS. Nicodemus knew that Jesus was obviously from God - “for no man can do these miracles that you are doing except God be with him.” So the question here really becomes this: if I am doing all this stuff and living for God, and you Jesus are too, then why is your life so different? So much more

Never Religious Enough

powerful, so much more dynamic than mine? What am I missing?

4. HE LEFT HIS MEETING WITH JESUS “BORN AGAIN” Jesus taught Nicodemus of the need of “being born again”. Jesus told him, “Nicodemus, are you the great master teacher of Israel and don’t know what I’m saying? You’ve been trying to please God with all your righteous living and religious duty, and those things are admirable, but what you really need is to be converted - you need to be born again - except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.”

What’s the point? It’s this: what do you get when you have a birth? You have a tiny, defenseless little baby who can’t do anything. It can’t feed itself, can’t walk, can’t talk, can’t reason, can’t work, can’t clean its room, can’t ride a bike, or anything else. All that baby can do is cry and cry and cry some more! When my children were born, my heart was overjoyed with the love I had for them! Do you see it? My love, my joy, my acceptance of them had absolutely nothing to do with their performance - it existed solely because they were my children.

God isn’t going to accept you on the basis of what you can do for Him. He’s not going to accept you on the basis of how good you can be or how perfectly you can keep His commandments. The only way He’ll accept you is for you to repent - to turn from your sin of trying to earn His favor and place your faith in Him alone. Unless you become as a baby, God will not accept you. We don’t have anything to offer Him. There’s nothing you can do to earn His love, and your very efforts to bypass His Son Jesus Christ are offensive to Him.

If you were to stand before God today and He asked you, “Why should I let you into my heaven?” what would you tell Him? Would you mention your abilities, church attendance, kindness to others, Christian service, abstinence from some sin, or some other good deed? Are you trusting in your own abilities to earn acceptance with God, or are you trusting in the death of Christ to pay for your sins?

Nicodemus was one of the greatest religious leaders of his time. But Jesus saw into Nicodemus’ heart, and knew that Nicodemus had only covered himself with a religion based upon works, and he didn’t have true fellowship with God. Nicodemus needed a radical change to come into his life, and that change was Jesus.

What matters for eternity is not your religion but your relationship with God through faith in Jesus Christ. “Ye must be born again”.

12 • January 4, 2012BMA of Texas

Where family is created.

ADOPTION SERVICES BY TBH

In 2008, over 84,610 abortions occurred in Texas alone, but Adoption Services of Texas Baptist Home for Children exists to protect the sanctity of human life and to promote the preservation of the family through adoption. Our purpose is to find for-ever homes for the more than 6,000 waiting Texas kids in care and to facilitate prevention and rehabilitative services for children, adults, and families through Post Adoption Services. The aim of these programs is to enable our agency, local churches, and the community to meet the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of individuals and families.

Search and Assistance services for adult adoptees and birth family members Copies of adoption records for adoptee upon request

Medicaid and Subsidy assistance Individual, group, and family counseling Counseling/Therapy for birth parents

Parental Education and Support Adoption Alumni Association support and annual events. Psychological Testing Respite Care

629 Farley Street Waxahachie, TX 75165

Run for Their Lives 5K

Post Adoption Services Provided:

WHEN? January 21, 2011

Registration 8:00 AM Run Start Time 9:00 AM Walk Start Time 9:15 AM

WANT TO ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS? For $25 your business or organization will have the opportunity to set up a booth during the event to advertise your services! Contact Megan for more details.

WHERE? Getzendaner Memorial Park 300 South Grand Ave. Waxahachie, TX 75165

ADOPTION SERVICES BY TBH

Phone: 972-937-1321 Fax: 972-937-9510 mbaldwin@tbhc.org

HOW? Get Sponsors: Raise minimum of $100 to enter and also receive a FREE t-shirt! Register by Jan 9: $30 plus a $5 t-shirt. After Jan 9, t-shirt is $15.

Additional T-shirts: $15 ea.

Kids 12 and under walk free!

Please call or email Megan Baldwin at 972-937-1321 or mbaldwin@tbhc.org to re-quest a registration form or visit www.tbhc.org.