“At the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them. And said, Verily I say unto you, except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea. Woe unto the world because of offences! for it must needs be that offences come, but woe to that man by whom the offence cometh! Wherefore if they hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them off, and cast them from thee: it is better for thee to enter into life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into everlasting fire” (Matthew 18:1-8).

Thought for the week: “The Larger Prayer”

“At first I prayed for Light could I but see the way, how gladly, swiftly would I walk to everlasting day! And next, I prayed for Strength; that I might tread the road with firm, unfaltering feet, and win the Heaven’s serene abode. And then, I asked for Faith; could I but trust my God, I’d live enfolded in His peace, through foes were all abroad. But now I pray for Love; deep love to God and men, a living love that will not fail, however dark His plan. And Light and Strength and Faith are opening everywhere, God waited for me till I prayed the larger prayer.”

The Rev. and Mrs. M. L. Harville will celebrate his Ninth Anniversary as pastor of the New Antioch Baptist Church in Jemison on Sunday, Aug. 10 at 3 p. m. The Rev. Edward Strong will be the guest speaker and the Rev. Anthony Vines will serve as pulpit conductor. All churches and their pastors are invited.

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with songs, prayer and scripture by the praise team. Songs sung: “Come and Go To That Land,” “Oh How I Love Jesus,” “I Feel Like Traveling On” and “No Way I Can Lose.” The scripture was read by Willie Nunn with prayer by Pastor Dukes, Steven Nunn and Von Lowery. The morning message was given by Bro. Levon Lowery, associate minister of Holly Grove. His theme was “I Need God To Grow My Faith.” We all have a desire for more faith as Christians we need to grow. Don’t let the storms of life be larger than your faith in God. O ye of little faith, did you know your faith determines the size of your God? Big faith big God; little faith, little God. For faith dreams have ideals and visions. Here faith comes by hearing, not what you feel. Make a decision when God gives you a dream; step out of your comfort zone. Peter stepped out of the boat. Delaying Jesus will put you in a waiting room to make sure you need what you want or your dream is too small. The God you serve is a big God; he wants to bless you. Step out on your dream; it will happen when God says so. Dream dreams that have visions. Step out on God’s word. Benediction and remarks were given by Pastor Dukes.

On our sick list this week we ask you to remember in your prayers: Luther Lee, Sam and Vivian Hicks, Margie Hardnett, Nora Bell Barbour, Johnsie Walker, C. D. Varner, Lottie Underwood and William White. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.