Rear view mirrors...are they there for us to watch what's going on behind us; to keep us from running over things when we are backing up; to check when we do something wrong and hope we don't get caught by the long arm of the law; or quite possibly (NOT WHILE MOVING) put the finishing touch on our appearance before making the grand entrance at our destination?

I'm sure that all of us have done these things and more with that little piece of reflective glass mounted on our windshield.

As this year ends and a new one begins, let's use our 2008 rear view mirror to count our blessings; to see if any improvements can be made in our walk with God; to learn from our mistakes and avoid making the same ones again.

If we learn from looking back, we won't be ashamed when we reach our final destination.

Wishing you and yours blessings in 2009.

Expressing ourselves at times is difficult at best. Especially for those of us who do not have the gift of writing, speaking, painting, or singing. While eloquence is a gift that niether I nor many others enjoy, our heart's are lifted when we read or hear of the greatness and glory of our God. Brushstrokes on canvas express through the eyes and skilled hands of the artist, the beauty and wonder of God's creation. Voices lifted in praise inspire us to worship. God in His great love has given to each of us an unspeakable gift in the person of Jesus Christ, and with that gift He also gives us instruction to just "be still and know that I am God". Let's not forget His great expression of love. Take the time to give Him the praise He deserves even if it is only in the stillness of our hearts.

Merry Christmas and may His joy fill your heart.
Bro. Bob

Important Dates

Salvation Army Kettle Drive - December 20, 9:30am - 4:00pm @ Brookshires in Emory
Youth Christmas Party - December 21, 6:00pm - 9:00pm Vans will leave the LFBC parking lot @ 6:00. Remember to bring a gift and be prepared to have food, fun, & fellowship.
menu - salad, baked potato, steak, rolls, dessert.

Dangerous Duty Down South

Eric and Ramona Reese brave the crime filled streets of Rio de Janeiro everyday to carry the gospel to those who live in fear. The slums are filled with drugs, prostituton and frequent shootouts. Eric says, "The gospel cannot wait until tomorrow for these people." Please pray for Eric and Ramona's safety and the salvation of those to whom they minister.

Busy! Busy! Busy!

Looking for the perfect gift for that special someone many times means fighting crowds of somewhat unfriendly folks. Remember to give them a smile and wish them a blessed Christmas. They may be having a tough time. As joyous as Christmas is for those of us who know its TRUE meaning, there are those who don't. The greatest gift of all is found in God's love, His only begotten Son. As costly as it was to Him, it's still free to all who will believe. Give it away!

In all the hustle and bustle of the season let's not forget to pray for our missionaries.
Today we are praying for Charles and Mary Swanner. They are now and have been for 20 years serving in Uruguay and are ministering to the deaf.

Today we are praying for Larry and Nancy Jackson, missionaries to Peru.

They are a part of the International Mission Board's Masters Program. That means they are over 50 years of age and have committed to serve overseas for at least 2 years. Their work is planting churches in jungle villages in remote areas of Peru and Bolivia. Pray that God gives them strength, both physical and spiritual, as they take the Gospel of Christ to those who have never heard.

Today we are praying for Keith & Deborah Jefferson. They are missionaries to Brazil's remote interior where there some 2800 villages spread across 23 of Brazil's 26 states. They have been in the field since December 2005.