“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. There was a man sent from God, whose name was John. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light, that all men through him might believe. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that Light. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. He came unto his own, and his own received Him not. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, this was he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before me: for he was before me. And of his fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” (John 1:1-17).

Thought for the week: “A Cross in My Pocket”

“I carry a cross in my pocket, a simple reminder to me of the fact that I am a Christian no matter where I may be. This little cross is not magic, nor is it a good luck charm — it isn’t meant to protect me from every physical harm. It’s not for identification for all the world to see; it’s simply an understanding between my Savior and me. When I put my hand in my pocket to bring out a coin or a key, the cross is there to remind me of the price He paid for me. It reminds me, too, to be thankful for my blessings day by day and to strive to serve Him better in all that I do and say. It’s also a daily reminder of the peace and comfort I share with all who know my Master and give themselves to His care. So, I carry a cross in my pocket reminding no one but me that Jesus Christ is the Lord of my life if only I’ll let Him be.”

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist Church in Jemison began with praise service led by the male chorus with prayer, scripture, songs and testimonies. The senior choir brought a melody of songs with music by Jennifer Peoples and Julian Lowery. Songs sung: “I’ll Fly Away,” “I Want to Go and See Jesus” and “God Has Done Enough.” The scripture was read by Earl Lowery with prayer by Pastor Dukes and Carl Singleterry. The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes. His theme was “Vision Stoppers.” Folks don’t want God’s program to go forward. Folks want to do their own things. Are you a vision stopper? Don’t let the devil use you in a negative light. Do you challenge authority? Do you challenge your leader or pastor?

How do you respond to vision stoppers? You have to be willing to stand; you can’t be a spiritual coward. You must challenge the enemy in the house. Vision stoppers find fault at church and try to steal your joy. Stand up, for there is no respect for God’s house; God’s house is not a battleground.

Religious leaders attempted to trap Jesus, leaders have to lead and be led by God. What makes people try to stop visions? They want praise for self, not God. They interrupt church for who said this or that. They ask Jesus who gave him authority. Jesus is from God, so why question it? His vision is going forward. Don’t try to stop God’s vision because you don’t like the programs. No one can stop God’s vision; he is the great I Am. The vision must move forward. Remarks by Pastor Dukes.

Our sympathy goes out to the families of Mrs. Johnsie Walker and Mrs. Catherine Bearden in their time of bereavement. Services for Mrs. Walker will be Friday, Sept. 4 at 1 p.m. at Kincheon Road Church of God in Clanton. Mrs. Bearden’s funeral is Saturday, Sept. 5 at 1 p.m. at Oak Grove Baptist Church in Plantersville. Agee Brother’s Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

On our sick list this week we ask you to remember in your prayers: Linda Clay, Sadie Agee, Lee Anna Worthey, Rebecca Roberts, Queen Worthey, Flora B. Franklin, Sam and Vivian Hicks, Joseph McCall, Mary S. Dickerson, Stella Wilson, Leroy Barry and Minnie Floyd. May God heal, strengthen and keep them in His care is our prayer.