By Emily Agee

“The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein. For he hath founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the floods. Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? or who shall stand in his holy place? He that hath clean hands, and a pure heart; who hath not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully. He shall receive the blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of salvation. This is the generation of them that seek him, that seek thy face, O Jacob. Lift up your head, O ye gates; and be ye lift up, ye everlasting doors; and the King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty the Lord mighty in battle. Lift up your heads, O ye gates; even lift them up, ye everlasting doors, and the King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of host, he is the King of glory” (Psalm 24:1-10).

Thought for the week: “Deeds of Love”

“Think not a smile can warm a heart and leave an afterglow? A word of kindness fosters hope where dreams no longer grow? Think not a helping inspires a soul to try anew, or words of love rekindle joy where love no longer grew? Think so! Think so! Be still and know life’s purpose and God’s plan. To do for others, day by day, to be the best we can. For selfless deeds done from the heart are blessed by God above, and those who care and truly share shall know eternal love.”

Worship service at Holly Grove Baptist in Jemison began with praise service of songs, prayer and scripture. Songs sung were “We Offer The Sacrifice of Praise,” “I Thank God,” “Praise The Lord Everybody” and “Lord You Are Good.” The scripture was read by Willie Nunn with prayer by Pastor Dukes and Carl Singleterry. The morning message was given by Pastor Dukes with his theme: “Three Things That Make an Outstanding Mother.”

Having a mother is special; she sees the good in you and you can’t replace a mother. They are a gift from God. Are you a mother or “My Baby Momma?” Mothers don’t send their children in danger.

What make an outstanding mother is Mary was picked by God to be Jesus’ mother — he found favor with her. What were her qualities? She had a personal relationship with God. She loved the Lord like Timothy as a mother and grandmother. She had integrity, self-respect and enjoyed the presence of God. Mary’s soul magnify the Lord.

You develop your taste and habits from your mouth. Mothers, don’t try to be buddies with your children; set boundaries for your children. Mary was hungry for God — she was in the upper room on the day of Pentecost.

A mother must have a proper relationship with her family, she supports her husband’s leadership and teaches her children discipline and honor. A mother is the glue in the house — if the glue doesn’t stick, the family scatters.

On our sick list we ask you to remember in your prayers: Jerry Wilson, Robert Spence, Juanita Bryant, Sam and Vivian Hicks, Flora Franklin, Juanita Shirley, Melvin Melton and Lee Anna Worthey. May God heal and strengthen them in His care is our prayer.

Emily Agee is a religion columnist for The Clanton Advertiser. Her column appears each Thursday.