Spring 1999
From the Pastor.
Welcome to our spring edition of the Ballee Baptist Newsletter in its new smaller, neater, and handier format... I was tempted to say just like me! But those who attend our fellowship, or who know me, Would quick to point out that I was being, at very least, economical with the truth. I never have been thin, weighing in originally at ten and a half pounds; I have always been of the ' ample' variety. Usually at this time of the year, with the holidays in sight, and the long summer nights in view. I try to think of getting more exercise. Jogging, press-ups. Cycling. Usually after thinking about it for a while, those nasty thoughts go away and I go back to normal! ,
But let me mention an area I have more authority in...not physical fitness but spiritual...Heb 5. 14 comes to mind: -
"But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have the senses exercised to discern both good and evil." Let me suggest a spiritual fitness routine to keep those spiritual senses exercised. Five daily exercises which will keep you in spiritual tip-top condition.
1.Acts 17: 11 "Searched the Scriptures Daily.
Dai1y, searching of the Word of God is essential for spiritual fitness. Many settle for daily "reading", but far better to "search" for those golden nuggets of Biblical truth that are hidden under the superficial surface reading of God' s word.
Many settle for the nuggets you can enjoy from books, Bible reading notes or, hopefully from the pulpit, but there is no thrill like digging and searching in God' s word for yourself and uncovering a gem that you have never noticed before.
What a blessing to have God's word so readily available. There is blessing in its obedience, instruction in it's learning, it is binding, inspired, living and eternal. The Lord Jesus could say in Matt 24: 35 "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away."
2.Prov 8: 34 "Watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors."
What a vital exercise this is... Waiting on God, waiting in sanctuary. Remember the story, of Queen Esther who is told of Human' s evil decree to slay all the Jews in Persia. Mordecai said to Esther (Esther 4: 14) "Who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" Chapter 5 sees Queen Esther dressed in her royal apparel, standing in the inner court of the kings house... She "obtained favour in his sight" and Queen Esther was permitted to draw near and make her request.
The hymn writer could ask:-
How, long has it been since you talked with the Lord
And told Him your hearts hidden secrets?
How long since you prayed? How long since you stayed
On your knees till the light shone through?
How long has it been since your mind felt at ease?
How long since your heart knew no burden?
Can you call Him your friend?
How long has it been since you knew that He cared for you?
The Psalmist said in Psalm 86:3 "I cry unto Thee daily " and we as God's children in 1999 need this neglected yet vital exercise to maintain spiritual fitness.~
3.Matt 6: 11 "Give us this day our daily bread."
The provision of which is vital for our daily needs... bread was necessary for the provision of that which, maintenance of life, and for the strengthening of the body. Here is a daily exercise that we have in common with the prophet Elijah at the brook Cherish (1Kings 17). The ravens brought him bread and flesh in the morning and bread and flesh in the evening. He was exercising his faith in Jehovah to meet the common needs of life. Isn't that why we give thanks to God at the meal table? A daily exercise of trusting God.
4.Luke 9: 23 "Take up His cross daily."
To be spiritually , fit there must be a daily taking up of the cross. Much confusion surrounds this exercise, people who are ill or sick and people will respond "That's a heavy cross God has given to you!" But such illnesses are the common lot of humanity because we live in a fallen sinful world. None of us are immune from illness. Praise God, He has promised to go through the trials with us. Give us strength and grace to cope and even turn them around for His glory. The cross of Luke 9: 23 is something, not given to us, but that we must lift ourselves! It is the denying of self and the identification with Christ, accepting willingly the taunts, mocking and scorn of those who know not Christ.
This is certainly not a popular exercise, but our spiritual fitness regime will never be complete without it.
5. Hebrews 3: 13 "But exhort (encourage) one another daily."
Many of God's people are hurting, discouraged, at a point of despair _ How they need that word of help and encouragement. Maybe even before you read the rest of our magazine there is a phone call you ought to make, or a letter to write to encourage someone along the way.
I am fairly sure I'll never be eight stone again - but with God's help I will endeavor to stay spiritually fit with these daily exercises - would you care to join me.
Eccles 2: 4,8, lO &11 Contrasted with Phil 3. 8
If we want to end like Paul - we must live like Paul.
If we decide to live for self - you will end like Solomon.
NO CHRISTIAN IS GREATER THAN HIS PRAYER LIFE
*****************************************************************************************
A WORD OF TESTIMONY
As a boy I attended the Church of Ireland. I went to Sunday school and I was even in the Church choir. For a long time I thought I was going to Heaven - I had no reason to think otherwise. Then my brothers and I were sent to children's meetings mid-week and in these meetings I heard that, in order to get to Heaven, we needed to be saved. I began to get confused but did not have anyone in my own Church who I could talk to about these things. In my Church we used Hymnbooks and Prayer books. At these Gospel meetings the Bible was used. As I got older I drifted away from my Church which in time seemed to take away the confusion. Recently I was invited to a Gospel meeting by one of my workmates who is a Christian.
An American man, James Reed, took the meeting. It was through his preaching of the Gospel that God began to speak to me. I went to work the next day with a troubled heart. Liam my workmate spoke to me about what God had done in his life and what He could also do for me. When I got home I spoke to my wife about my worries. She had been saved as a young child but for quite some time had drifted away from the things of God. On Sunday, 22nd November of that same week I was at home alone getting ready to go to work. My wife and daughter were at her mother' s having dinner. I was listening to a tape of James Reed that I had been given. I began looking through my Bible and stopped at John 3 v 16. This had been my father's favourite verse - he died of cancer just over five years ago. He was only 53 when he died and since this I had a deep fear of death and a dread of cancer. In the background I heard James Reed's voice saying how Satan destroys the man of the house first, then the woman and then he can get to the children. At this point I got on my knees still holding the Bible open at John 3 v 16. I asked God for forgiveness from my sins and I just burst into tears like a child. Then I felt a great weight being lifted off me. I knew I was saved. At last all the confusion disappeared. My Church going, being in the Church choir, etc. could not save me, that's why Jesus died. I went to work that day and told everyone that I had just got saved.
God works in wonderful ways and He used me getting saved to speak to my wife, She got restored the next day. Almost straightaway we saw the change in our home. A few short weeks later our daughter who is only five said she was saved. She said she knew that Jesus died so that she cou1d live forever. I have only been saved about four months but already I have seen God's power at work in the lives of family and friends. My sister- in- law is now saved and so are many of my friends. I thank God for the people He used to speak to me and I pray that He will use me to speak to others. I am looking forward to April 11th when I will be baptised. I feel that this is my next step in my relationship with God.
Stephen Johnston.
********************************************************************************************
LADIES FELLOWSHIP
Have you ever had one of those days when nothing goes the way you planned it? Well, that's exactly how our ladies meetings have been from Christmas! In January we were to have a visit from Sandy Clarke but she was in England and in her place we had a visit from a couple of ladies representing Torch Trust instead.
We had a thoroughly enjoyable evening as we learnt new songs, listened as they sang and gave testimony of what God was doing in their lives. Each of us went home full of admiration for these ladies and how they coped with every day living without their sight and yet each were challenged about how much we take for granted and how often we neglect to count our blessings.
At the end of January instead of our prayer meeting we had a visit from Mazie Smyth. Mazie held us spellbound as she told of how God had protected and encouraged her and how He finally brought her safely out of Zaire and back home again to Ballymena. How good to know we have a God who never leaves us or forsakes us depending on the size of our faith. The same God who protected Mazie in war-torn Zaire still loves and protects His children in Ballymena.
In February a group of ladies went to take the ladies meeting in Lantarra Baptist. A big thank-you to all those who took a public part and to those who came for moral support also, it was good to share an evening of fellowship with the ladies in Lantara.
In March, Billy Swann was to have taken our meeting but this task fell to a young lady called Heather who had not long joined the mission, How big a mission field right on our own doorsteps. She spoke of camps that are run each summer for boys and girls and even their parents in order to reach them with the gospel. So many with physical, emotional needs as well as spiritual. The cry went out for help to man these camps if you can spare the time - young, old, married or single. If unable to attend in person we could always support a child financially or remember the work prayerfully. Please remember DCM and the work over the summer months. Our final meeting will take place on April 14th when two men will tell of the Russian children coming to the province for a holiday in August. Sammy and Gordon will tell of how God has made provision for this vast undertaking.
Our original speaker, Attracta Hanna has a hospital appointment and will not be able to drive to keep her date with us. Best wishes to Attracta as she recovers from surgery. To finish our year off we have as usual a day trip planned for 24th April. Please make a date to join us if you can as we usually have a great day out. Please pray as we make preparations for 1999/2000 and please remember the prayer meetings as they continue throughout the summer months as usual. Please join us if you can make it, as we would love to see you there.
Lesley Kennedy.
*******************************************************************************************
EVERY MOMENT OF RESISTANCE TO TEMPTATION IS A VICTORY.
*******************************************************************************************
A FEW THOUGHTS ON THE SOWER
Behold a sower went forth to sow
In various places seed to throw
Some by the way -side dry and bare
Was soon devoured by the fowls of the air
Some fell on hard and stony ground
And little earth or moisture found
Yet sprang up quickly lacking root
And withered quickly lacking fruit
And some mid thorns the Sower let fall
But thorns sprang up and choked them all
Some fell on good ground taking root
Grew strong and healthy brought forth fruit
Thirty or sixty fold we're told
And some brought forth a hundred fold
How solemn the lessons the preacher then taught
As these searching truths from the word forth he brought
Of the way - side hearer who dwells in the dust
Of fair worldly wisdom and self loving lust
The stony ground hearer who seemeth to pray
But in tribulation he withers away
The thorny ground hearer beset with his snares
Of riches and pleasures and choked with cares
Only one of the four kinds whose heart could receive
The seed that was sown and by faith could believe
How solemn the thought as our heart is laid bare
We search out to see if the seed is sown there
And ask of the Master with startled like cry
Oh which of the four kinds Lord Jesus am I
Shall I stand the trial in that awful day?
Or will the seed choke or be withered away
O Thou Holy Sower of all seed Divine
Be pleased to plough up this waste heart of mine
And let the seed send forth a good lasting root
And bear to thy glory abundant rich fruit.
Submitted by Mrs. Alexander.
*****************************************************************************************
Duty makes us do things well, but love makes us do them beautifully.
***************************************************************************************
THE COMFORTER
God knows your needs and your worries alike
God knows your concerns and your tears
Your faith is the answer, in which you must trust
Then peace will be with you and dry up your tears.
Have faith in the Lord and all will be well
The anxious and scared will be healed through your prayer
He'll lift up your doubts and send them away
And replace them with His loving tender care.
You know it' s not easy to cast tears away
With love in your heart, to God you must pray
Then you will notice your tears disappear
His presence you'll feel so close and so near.
He loves you so much, it' s impossible to say
You're now one of His chosen, a child of God
So try not to worry you're safe in His arms
He'll keep you in safety away from all harms.
God loves you and needs you so much
Feel all around for His loving touch
Don't feel lost or that you're alone
Because I know you'll never be on your own.
Written by James Clarke.
**************************************************************************************
Golgotha
I stood beside Golgotha,
And heard my Saviour say,
'I took your sins upon me;
The price I had to pay;'
Although the path was lonely,
There was no other way
For sinful man to enter
To God's Eternal Day.
I stood beside Golgotha,
And heard my Saviour pray
As, in His darkest hour,
God turned His face away;
What sorrow and what anguish
We never could repay
The dept we owe to Jesus,
The Truth, the Life, the Way.
**************************************************************************************
SALVATION COTTAGE
For we know that our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in heavens. 2 Corinithians 5:1
Porch
I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved. John 10:9
Living Room
..because I live, ye shall live also. John 14:19
Kitchen
I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever. John 6:51
Study
So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom. Psalm 90:12
Bathroom
Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood. Revelation 1:5
Bedroom
Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28
- eternal guarantee: built on a solid rock (Luke 6:48)
- Master Builder approved (1 Corinthians 3:10)
- Guaranteed to meet all your needs (Phillippians 4:19)
- Millions of satisfied owners
Avallable to all, FREE OF CHARGE John 3:16
******************************************************************************************
THE CROWN OF THORNS
I wonder who plaited the Crown of Thorns
That pierced the Saviour' s head,
Was he there to see the blood flow down,
As Christ to the Cross was led?
Did he see Him, bend, 'neath His heavy load,
Did he watch them drive in the nails?
Was he proud to have made the Crown of Thorns
That pierced the Saviour' s head?
I wonder if he who made the crown
That pierced the Saviour' s head,
Was there to see His awful death
And hear the words He prayed?
'Father, forgive them,' He breathed through His pain,
As the crowd mocked the Son of God;
Did he wish he had never made the crown
That pierced the Saviour' s head?
I wonder if he who made the crown
That pierced the Saviour' s head,
Could speak to us now of the crown he made.
Would he have regrets and say-
'I went with the throng, not knowing the wrong,
My conscience is plagued with guilt;
If only I had never made the crown
That pierced the Saviour' s head?'
Vera Smith.
**********************************************************************************
PRAYER
Privilege is ours to come before the Throne of Grace;
Responsible are we to bow and seek His face.
Answer He gives according to His perfect will;
Yearning we linger as we hear Him say, "Be still."
Entering the Holiest by the blood-bought Way,
Restoration and refreshment, ours to-day.
**********************************************************************************
'FEELING LIKE GIVING UP'
Are you at rock bottom' and maybe as I pen this you're feeling like giving up; you just can't cope and everything is like a big, black cloud hanging over your whole life? You see no way , out and maybe you feel you just can't take anymore. Everything seems so hopeless that you've reached a point of complete despair. Your at 'breaking point' with so many things going through your mind and one should never underestimate the 'mind'; its powerful and wonderful as 'life' itself; yet a very 'fickle' thing.
Are you desperately , struggling with your faith and at the same time your realize that your whole life is a 'spiritual shipwreck' you're so confused, so frightened; you're desperately longing for help and as you try to pray to God your prayers feel like their hitting a wall and bouncing back. You feel ashamed and guilty to touch God' s word you even feel uncomfortable and uneasy sitting in church because you know your hearts not right before God. Your mind is in complete turmoil and you know without a doubt that God by His Holy Spirit is speaking to you and you wrestle with it so much so that you end up making excuses to try and avoid going out to church sometimes in a vain attempt to escape your own guilt, your own conscience. You certainly cannot sit in at the Lord' s table and you begin to doubt and question your faith.
Maybe by now your saying, 'who is this and how do they know all about me because this is how I feel;' Well I don't know you dear Christian friend, and I may never meet you personally but I do know what its like to be at ' rock bottom' and to feel like giving up completely. You may well say, 'but you don't know what its really like,' well I do dear Friend because I' ve been there myself
I speak personally here. I had reached a point where I realized I just couldn't go on. My doctor wanted to put me on anti-depressants; thank God when we have a Higher Hand to help us through, we don't need anti-depressants, my happiness, my marriage and my Faith were crumbling beneath me ; I was at my lowest; in fact I felt suicidal on the surface of my despair, my whole life was torn apart and I despaired of ever being happy again. I recall days when I just don't know how I got through them. With great pain in my heart I recalled the memories of ' quiet times' I had spent with God which was spiritually valuable time and 'food' for my soul. As my mind pondered over these memories I began to realize that somewhere along the way I had become careless to a point where I lost all desire for the ' quiet times' and slowly but surely I found myself slipping away from God. You betray your trust to those nearest and dearest, you hurt and disappoint them and you wonder how you'll ever build up the trust again. I do not try to justify my personal failure in my Christian life; I never could but I thank God from the depth of my heart that His love is unchanging toward us. I was the one who grew cold, not God. I was the one who , we sometimes fail but God never Fails. (Malachi 3 v 6 and Hebrews 13 v 5). No matter what mistake dear friend you may have made don't let the devil use it to get you to give up. God forgives us because He is a merciful and forgiving God; where would any of us be if it weren't for God's great love and mercy towards us. (1 John 1 v 7) (Psalm 1 16 v 4-7). What wonderful words of encouragement and assurance, look them up and ponder over them slowly. It was at 'rock bottom' that I cried to God and literally threw myself upon God's mercy because I knew that in my own strength I was helpless and I have to confess it was the toughest experience in my life. Praise God, with God nothing is impossible and no problem is beyond God' s almighty power to solve. (Matt 19 v 26).
God in His own time and way builds our 1ives back together again with Himself because His great love toward us is everlasting (Jer 31 v 3 and the first part of verse 4). God also has a purpose and a reason for everything that happens in our lives. If everything was blessing and 'problem free' from the moment we trust in Christ as our Saviour and Lord then one would never experience God's delivering power and one would never know our Fathers hand moulding and shaping us for His glory and good into a richer, deeper and more blessed walk with Him.
In everything I've been through personally, I've learned a lot. I've learned more than anything how evil and subtle the devil really is and we should never underestimate his power but praise and thank God; God is Almighty in power and defeated the devil at the cross of Calvary when He suffered, died and rose again.
I've learned to get my eyes off people and unto God; never look to people as you sometimes get so many discouragement's and if you feel all alone as I did then dear friend take heart you're not a1one and there is that Higher Hand a1ready with you holding you up and will bring you through if you only but let Him. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us. (Hebrew's 13 v 5) (Psalm 125v 1).
Dear Friend God knows what you' re going through and He knows how you feel. I knew God understood all about me more than anyone and that' s all that really matters if God knows. That was a great consolation for me that God knew how I really felt and when we look for God then standing somewhere in the shadows you will find Him because He's a friend who loves and cares and understands.
I thank God that through my experience I've learned a lot some of which I've shared with you and that God's grace is all sufficient to meet our individual needs and to restore us back to Himself in a fuller, deeper, closer and more blessed walk with Him. God bless, help and keep you. Don't give up that's what the Devil wants; fight for your faith; it's worth holding unto because without it you've nothing worth living for. (2 Cor 12v 9).
WHAT MUST HELL BE LIKE?
A faithful Scottish preacher once had occasion to pass a Factory where glass was manufactured. Finding the door open, he stepped in. Soon he stood before the cavernous opening of one of the furnaces. He stared at the seething flames as tho hypnotized and finally exclaimed to himself, "Oh, what will hell be like?"
He did not know that a stoker, standing quietly a few feet behind him, heard his words. After several weeks, the workman appeared in church. Making himself known after the service, the stoker reminded the preacher of the incident at the glass factory and said, "Every time I opened the furnace since then, I have thought of your words. I came tonight to take Jesus as my Lord and Saviour - I don' t want to find out what Hell is like!"
Submitted by Jean Craig.
*******************************************************************************************
ONIONS.
We remember the onions Numbers 11 v 5. Onions are hypocrites. They are renegades deserters and traitors. One would never suspect from the appearance and odor of the onion that it belongs to the 'lily' family. Yet botanists tell us onions are members of that fragrant and delightful order of flowers, the 'lilies.' What happened to the lily to change it to an onion? Somewhere along the line a branch of the 'lily' family went astray and belied all that which is suggested by the name of its family. An onion is a lily with a depraved nature. It is a blot upon the fair family name of 'Lilacea' a prodigal son a disgrace to its lovely brothers and sisters.
No wonder then that onions are mentioned only once in the Bible, and then in an evil connection. Onions belong to Egypt, and Egypt is a type of the world. The children of Israel were out of Egypt but had carried their appetite for onions with them, and forgetting all about the God - given manna they said, "we remember... the onions." They did not say, "we remember the Passover Lamb," our deliverance from death, our passage through the sea," but - "we remember ... the onions."
What a picture of the worldly believer. Onions belong to the 'old man' of Egypt and not the 'new man' of Canaan!
How much do you feed on the manna of the word of God, as compared to the onions of pleasure, worldly habits, entertainment, love of money, success and popularity? Last night you spent over an hour watching TV and all day yesterday you did not spend 10 minutes with your Bible. "No wonder you have spiritual indigestion halitosis." You can't live on onions. Imagine the children of Israel 'missing' onions with their manna. Your appetite for 'manna' is spoiled by onions. There are many kinds of onions - but only one manna. The Bible enumerates some of these 'onions' in Colossians 3: 5-9, How much better to feed among the lilies (Song of Sol. 6: 3).
AFTER YOUR APPOINTMENT - WHAT?
It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. Heb 9: 27 (suggested reading Isa 14: 9 - 11 & Luke 23: 42 - 46).
This is one appointment, which every man must keep - an appointment with God at the end of the road. Death does not end all. There is an immediate judgment which follows that will determine unalterably where the soul will exist for eternity. From the scripture readings suggested above, it is obvious that both the lost and the saved are conscious in mother realm immediately after physical life here is ended.
The story is told of a preacher of the Gospel who was one day speaking to an ungodly crowd about heaven. Afterward a scoffer exclaimed. "I don't believe a word you've said. When we die, we die like dogs and are buried, and that is the end of us." Was that what your mother believed? The evangelist inquired. "No, my old mother loved her Bible and cried over it many nights because I would not accept it." The preacher then asked him, "Is your mother still alive?" "No," said the man "she had been dead for some time now."
"Oh" replied the preacher imitating the sarcastic tone of the unbeliever, " she died like an old dog then and was buried! Too bad that.... was the end of her!" "What?" said the man livid with rage, "you say my mother died like an o1d dog!" "No" was the answer. "You say so, I say she died like a saint and is with God in heaven. You see, sir, you do not really believe what you have been saying." The doubter was silenced. Death does not end all. The termination of physical life and the coming judgment are rightfully a constant source of fear to the unbelieving, but they should not trouble the child of God, for "There is therefore no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus." Rom 8: la. After you keep your unavoidable appointment with God, where will you live for eternity?
"I CAN'T"
School children have their own distinctive characteristics, such as one who likes to make up stories with such conviction that all his friends believe they really did happen. Then there is one who gazes out of the window, no doubt dreaming of the day when he will no longer have to put up with the tedium of school. The one however that most interests me is the one who continually cries, "I' CAN'T."
I'm sure that there are many people in this world who say the same thing, the only thing lacking is confidence in themselves, and someone to take an interest in them to give some encouragement.
Perhaps you have been asked to lead in prayer, to give a word of testimony, or to speak at the epilogue, you have never done it before and so your reaction was, "I can't do that." How often do you say that, and what should happen when you do. ?
I think Paul gives the answer in Philippians. First he tells us that his attitude is the opposite of "I can't" for he says, "I can do anything" but we must hasten to add the rest of the sentence, "through Christ who gives me the strength." Occasionally we come across the man who is unaware of his own limitations and will tackle anything. This is not the case with Paul. He was well aware of his own weaknesses but he was equally confident of his ability of God to meet all his needs and help him with any problem. That power is still available for each of us if only we will make use of it. In addition to this, Paul received great encouragement from the Philippians who not only prayed for him but also sent him gifts to meet his needs. We hear much these days of the gift of the Spirit; one, which is frequently neglected, is the gift of encouragement. We all need an occasional word of praise and thanks from others who have been helped by our work.
The third thing, which kept Paul from saying, "I can't", was the prospect of one day receiving the prize of the crown of life. The incentive of hearing his Lord say, "well done good and faithful servant" encouraged him to fight the good fight and not give up.
We look forward towards a new century with confidence, knowing that we have a God who will meet all our needs; and may we encourage one another not to despair, and may we keep before us the incentive of the crown of life which Christ promises to all those who persevere to the end.
Submitted by Albert Moore.
****************************************************************************************
The word behold means to look upon in amazement. This song by Roy Boltz reminds us of what the Lord Jesus has done for us.
BEHOLD
Behold the cross that Jesus bore
Behold the crown of thorns that He wore
Behold the price that Jesus paid
The glorious sacrifice that He made-
Behold, oh behold
Jesus Christ the Lord
Behold He is the one
That we adore
Behold the tomb where Jesus lay
Behold the stone, it' s been rolled away
Behold His resurrection power
Why He lives again, yes He lives this hour.
Behold a world in s1umber lies
And then thunder fills the skies
An angel shouts, a trumpet sounds
The saints of God, they' re glory bound.
And we adore you Lord
And we adore your name
And we lift up our hearts
Lift them up in praise
And we adore you Lord
And we adore your name
And we lift up our hearts in praise.
Behold.
Submitted by Marlene Gardiner.
*****************************************************************************************
LOVE
Lasting forever is the Saviour' s love,
Outstanding as His stoop from heaven above;
Victorious in the work He came to do,
Enduring is His love, remaining true.
****************************************************************************************
PRIDE and HUMILITY
The Scriptures have a lot to say about Pride. The words Pride and Proud appear 100 times. Let me mention a few;- Prov 21 v 4 says Pride is a sin: Prov 6 v 16 /17 and Prov 16 v 5 says, Pride is hateful to God. Mark 7 v 20/22 says it defiles a man. Pride is a hindrance to seeking God = Ps 10 v 4 and Hos 7 v 10. They that are guilty of it shall be brought low - Ps 18 v 27, Isa 2 v 12. God resisteth and opposes the proud but giveth grace to the humble - Jas. 4 v 6.
For me I see the sin of pride exemplified in one of the greatest Kings of Babylon Nebuchadnezzar, Dan ch 4. Over and over again God warns that pride comes before destruction and humility is required before blessing and that's what happened to this King. God does not like to see this attitude in anyone and people like that think more of themselves than of God. Nebuchadnezzar became puffed up with pride as he ruled over the great and lavishly wealthy empire of Babylon. Everything the king turned his hand to seemed to be successful. He was king of the greatest empire in the world. The city of Babylon was the most magnificent place in the world. It was surrounded by two walls and a huge moat 56 miles long. The walls were over 300 feet high and as wide as a six-lane motorway. Chariots could be driven along the top of the walls.
The streets of Babylon were well planned with houses three and four storeys tall along them. The river Euphrates ran through the middle of the city and was crossed by a large bridge. At either end of the bridge were fantastic royal palaces, which were also connected by a tunnel underneath the river. Nearby were the world-famous hanging gardens, which rose high above the buildings. There were canals, waterways, parks and over 50 temples in which to worship heathen idols.
The scriptures record God gave Nebuchadnezzar, "a kingdom, and majesty and glory and honour. And for the majesty that He gave him, all people, nations, and languages trembled and feared before him. Whom he would, he slew; and whom he would, he kept alive; and whom he would, he set up and whom he would, be put down."
What was the kings response to all this? His heart was lifted up and he became very proud. He took all the credit himself Verse 29 he walked in the palace of the kingdom and said," is not this great Babylon, that I have built, by the might of my power and for the honour of my majesty." He took all the credit for the splendor of the city and his vast empire.
Then one night Nebuchadnezzar had a terrifying dream. In his dream, the king had seen a tree which grew and grew until its top touched the sky. Everyone in the world could see it. The tree had spreading branches full of fruit. Animals sheltered under it, birds lived in its branches, and everything fed off it. Suddenly, and angel came down from heaven and shouted, "cut down the tree, strip off the branches and fruit. Chase the animals and birds away but leave the stump and roots" (v 14/15). The kings wise men could not interpret it so he called in Daniel, The angel had implied that the tree was man, v 15 "Let him live with animals and eat grass like a cow until people learn that the most High God rules and gives power to whosoever He wishes." Daniel was alarmed by the dream but explained, you O king are the tree, Your greatness has grown until it reached the sky, but you will lose your throne. O king, confess your sin and do what is right. God patiently gave Nebuchadnezzar 12 months to humble himself and confess his sin but the king was too proud and didn't see why he should. Then a voice from heaven was heard "Your royal kingdom is taken away." That same hour the king became insane and God' s word came to pass. He was driven from men and did eat grass like the oxen, walking on all fours, his body was wet with the dew of heaven. His hair grew long and his fingernails like birds claws.
For seven years the king lived like an animal until he looked up to heaven and declared "The Lord is God," In that instant his understanding returned and his throne and power were given back to him. These are great verses (v 34 and following) to end the chapter. He wrote a letter to all his subjects describing his terribly embarrassing event. He ends praising the King of heaven, because His works are true, His ways are just and He is able to humble those who are proud.
Pride comes when "I" is in the middle of all we do. Our lives revolve around ourselves instead of God. God had to take king Nebuchadnezzar through a terrifying and bizarre experience to learn the value of humility. Many people who are proud or bigheaded are so full of themselves that they don't realise how proud they are, The kings successor did not learn from his GRANDFATHER'S mistakes. By the time Belshazzar had realised his arrogance and pride the "writing was in the wall," that's another story - Daniel 5.
LET US BE HUMBLE OR WE WILL TUMBLE.
This Old World ignores God and glorifies the achievements of men but let us glorify God and give Him all the credit, for in Him we live and more and have our being.
David Mitchell.
****************************************************************************************
THE PROVIDER
What need have we of material things
When we can ask and the good Lord brings
What need have we of earthly love
When it comes so freely from Heaven above
What need have we of riches and pleasures
When, for us, there awaits many treasures?
What need have we of someone to depend
When all that we need is our Heavenly Friend.
James Clarke.
********************************************************************************************
Step by Step
He does not lead me year by year,
Nor even day by day,
But step by step my path unfolds,
My Lord directs my way.
Tomorrow's plans I do not know,
I only know this minute,
And He will say - 'This is the way,
By faith - now walk ye in it.'
And I am glad that this is so,
Today' s enough to bear.
And when tomorrow comes -
It's grace, will far exceed it's care.
What need to worry then - or fret,
The God who gave His Son,
Holds all my moments in His hand,
And gives them, one by one.
*****************************************************************************************
ONE KIND OF PRAYER AND NOT THE WORST.
"Lord thou knowest better than I know myself that I am getting older and some day will be old."
"Keep me from getting talkative, particularly from the fatal habit of thinking that I must Say something on every subject and on every occasion."
"Release me from trying to straighten out everyone's affairs."
"Make me thoughtful, but not moody; helpful, but not bossy; with my store of wisdom it seems a pity not to use it all, but Thou knowest Lord, that I want a few friends at the end."
"Keep my mind free from the recital of endless details; give me wings to get to the point."
"Seal my lips on my many aches and pains - they are increasing and my love of rehearsing them is becoming sweeter as the years go by."
"I ask for grace enough to listen to the tales of others pains; help me to endure them with patience."
"Teach me the glorious lesson that occasionally it is possible that I may be mistaken." "Keep me reasonably sweet; I don't want to be silent - some of them are so hard to live with, but a sour old person is one of the crowning works of the devil."
"Help me to extract all possible fun out of life. There are so many funny things around us I don't want to miss any of them. Amen.
Submitted by R.L.Cameron
*******************************************************************************************
WHERE WAS I ?
Where was I?
Spear :- You pierced my Lord's side.
Solider :- You held the shaft to test for life. You tore His body caused blood to flow.
Nails :- You held His wrists. Impaired His body on wood
Wood :- You stretched Him wide. Held Him up to take the scorn
Voice :- You mocked.
And where was I that day?
Hiding in the crowd?
Did I hold the hammer ?
Did I carry the cross?
Did I write the sign?
Or make the crown of thorns?
Did I hide my shame?
In the mockery?
Tell me where was I?
Did I watch from a distance?
Afraid to come close?
Did I make my excuses
And pretend that I did all that I could?
Did I cast my judgment?
Cry crucify
Or in silence
Did I wash my hands?
Wherever I was - I wasn't at your side
I want to cry out
To take a sword and set you free
To raise my voice against the crowd
Yet I was too late
Too late to change
For my lot was cast, before I realized the shame.
Willing or not - I was there.
Andrew Marshall
Submitted by Louise McAuley.
****************************************************************************************
Carrickfergus Railway Man Samuel McAlister says the Lord Jesus committed no sin, yet He became accountable for our sins, on the Cross-of Calvary.
SINLESS PERFECTION
In the Lord Jesus, there wasn't one sin,
for they could not find, a place to dwell in.
He was from all sin, completely free.
Praise God for the Lamb, of dark Calvary.
When he opened His mouth. there came from it no guile,
Even when their spittles, were ever so vile,
When Jesus was reviled, He reviled not again,
Although our Lord suffered, such terrible pain.
They mocked Him, and jeered Him and of Him made fun,
Little knowing or caring, that He was Gods Son.
Pontius Pilate the Governor, couldn' t find fault at all,
Yet Barrabas who was a robber, received freedoms call.
The people out loud, cried crucify Him,
Although there was nothing, on Him they could pin.
As a lamb to the slaughter, the Lord Jesus was led.
And there on the cross, His blood for our sins was shed.
Jesus died on the cross, and Barrabas was free,
God's pardon from sins now extends to you and me,
We must also believe, that Jesus died in our place,
And if we reject him, our sins we will face.
All Christ rejectors, our Lord will condemn,
And there won't be a place, in Heaven for them,
There is only one way, we will ever be there,
And that's to trust Jesus, who all our sins bear.
Submitted be Vera Elliott.
******************************************************************************************
God's ways are behind the scenes, and He moves all the scenes that He is behind.
******************************************************************************************
CAPTAIN JOHN COUTS
He was a wild swearing tyrant of a sea captain, but on one voyage he was taken ill and lay on his back in mid ocean, death staring him in the face. He winced in the presence of death, and fear of 'the beyond' took fast hold upon him. At last he sent for the first officer and said. "Williams, get on your knees and pray a bit for a fellow; I'm awful bad; I expect I'll go this time." "I'm not a praying man, captain; I can't pray" replied the first officer. "Well, bring your Bible and read me a bit - for my ropes about to run out." "I've no Bible. captain" came the reply. "Well then" the captain said. "send the second officer here, perhaps he can pray a bit." The second officer then stood by his bunk. "Say - Thomas, I'm afraid I'm bound for eternity this trip; get down and pray if you can." I'd do it, captain if I could." said the second officer. "But since I was a lad I've never prayed." "Have you a Bible, then?" said the captain. "No, sir." Was the answer. "Then tell the third officer I want to see him." Said the captain. The third officer was like his superiors; he neither could pray or had a Bible.
Alas, for the dying captain! They searched the ship for a man that prayed, or had a Bible. At last one of the men came and said he had seen a book like a Bible in the hands of the cook's boy. Willie Platt. "Just see if he has one." - said the captain. "Sonny, have you got a Bible?" Inquired the captain. "Yes" said the boy. "But I only read it in my own time." "Oh that's all right, boy, fetch it and sit down here and find out something that will help me. I'm going to die. Find something about God having mercy on sinners." Poor boy! He didn't know where to read; but remembered his mother had oft made him read the 53rd chapter of Isaiah. Willie turned to that chapter and read. When he got to the 5th verse, "He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed," the captain, who had been listening for his life and, realising that he was certainly having his last chance, said - "stop, boy now that sounds like it; read it again." Once more Willie read those words, He was wounded for our transgressions. He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed." " Aye, boy, that's good, that's it." Willie then got braver, and said, "Captain,
when I was reading that verse at home, mother made me put my name in it; may I put it in now just where mother told me?" "Certainly, sonny. go on, put your name in just where she told you." Reverently the boy read. "He was wounded for Willie Platt's transgressions, He was bruised for Willie Platt's iniquities: the chastisement of Willie Platt's peace was upon Him; and with His stripes Willie Platt is healed." By then, as Willie finished, the captain was half over his bedside and eagerly said, "Boy, read again and put your captain's name in.- John Couts, John Couts." Then the boy read - "He was wounded for John Couts' transgressions, He was bruised for John Couts iniquities; the chastisement of John Couts' peace was upon Him; and with His stripes John Couts' is healed." When he had finished the captain said. "That'll do boy go on deck." - Then he lay back - having heard those glorious words ringing in his ears - He over and over repeated them, putting his own name in, - and as he did so, the joys of heaven filled the heart of a new-born soul. Another poor sinner for whom Christ died had now believed Him and received Him (John 1 v 12). - Yes, it says, "As many as received Him, TO THEM gave He power to become the sons of God." A few days afterwards the soul of the captain passed away,- the body was rolled in canvas, and over the ships side it disappeared into the ocean, there to remain until Jesus comes, and the sea gives up its dead (John 5 v's 28 &29) but, before his spirit took its flight, John Couts had witnessed to every man abroad his ship - that Jesus was wounded for his, John Couts' transgressions, was bruised for his iniquities, and by His stripes, he John Couts, was healed.
God commended His love even toward that wild swearing sea captain, and He alike loves us; God say's, "He was wounded for OUR transgressions."
Have you "put your name in" yet?
Taken from the Travellers Guide - - Submitted by Samuel Moore.
*****************************************************************************************
THE SAVIOUR
Jesus laid down His life for me,
In order that I would be able to see
In Him I could trust and sins repented
A place in Heaven, for me, cemented.
I know I' m not worthy of His precious thought
But still, to me, His love he brought
What a wonderful Lord and Teacher I know
That in others, the seed of His word, I could sow.
Lord help me to live by Thy mighty word
Help me to listen that you might be heard
Help me to help others who do not believe
Your word and your love let them receive
Some day I'll rejoice in the life that I led
Knowing the reason, on the cross, that you bled
You'll take me to Heaven and bless me I pray
Oh Lord guide me till my wonderful day.
James Clarke.
*************************************************************************************
I went out to find a friend, but could not find one there.
I went out to be a friend, and friends were everywhere.
**************************************************************************************
An Old Fashioned Christian.
Lord, make an old fashioned Christian,
For I live in so modem an age,
A Christian who stands four-square on the Word,
And believes it, yes page after page!
A Christian who dares not go with the crowd,
Who believes that the Book doesn't change,
That the Word has been given for all mankind ?
In this and every age! 2Timothy 3y16-17.
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
A 'child' of the Word and of prayer,
And one who in secret before Thee
Engages in fasting and prayer!
A Christian who gives what is due unto Thee,
In tithes and in offerings too,
To further the work of the Gospel, Lord,
To the Gentile as well as the Jew! Mal. 3 v 8-10.
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
Ever respecting Thy most holy day,
A Christian who still keeps the Sabbath
And sets it aside as Thy Day!
No questionable pursuits must exploit it,
Or unnecessary manual job,
But help me to ever remember
This Day is a Day for my God! Exodus 20 v 8-11.
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
Ever cautiously assessing the new,
For I still use the old A.V. Bible
The one that my forefathers knew!
I'm told by a world-renowned scholar
That it's still the most accurate and true,
That modern translations can't touch it,
For they're taken from a text that's not true! Rev. 22 v 18-19.
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
The kind Thou would'st want me to be,
A Christian who learns to redeem all the days,
Not wasting my time at TV. !
So many I know, all around me,
God's People, aye, they are fur sure,
But the 'Box' in the corner has robbed them
Of much that is holy and pure! Psalm 101 v 3a.
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
For there are some other things, too -
They tell me I'm greying, dear Father,
And this will surely not do!
I can colour hair and look youthful,
But I know I would dishonour Thee;
And yes, there' s divorce and remarriage,
But this, from Thy Word, should not be! Luke 16 v 18: Matt 5 v 32.
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
With a love in my heart for all men,
I know I could have all the standards
But be sadly lacking for them!
Oh yes, there are those who despise me,
And possibly criticise too,
But help me to love them in Jesus
No matter what they may do! 1 Pet 1 v 22: 1 Cor.13
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
For the lust of material gain
Has swept through the Church like a cancer,
And oh, it must cause Thee much pain!
You would think by the way some are living,
That Christ is not coming again -
At least for a long time to come, Lord,
For they're hooked on 'security' and 'gain'! Heb 13v5,14
Lord, make me an old fashioned Christian,
As free in my soul as a bird;
I'd rather appear to be negative, Lord,
Than disobey Thy Holy Word!
When I reach those fair portals of Heaven,
How gladly then I surely will be,
That I lived as an old fashioned Christian -
Happy, obedient and free!! Heb 13 v 12 -13.
*******************************************************************************************
They Crucified Him.
"Where they crucified Him.....on either side one, and Jesus in the midst."
(John 19 v 18). Calvary, the place of shame and cruelty "They"-the people whom He had bestowed His blessings, and whom He would have saved. "Crucified" - the most fiendish and cruel death man ever invented. It gave the Romans all the opportunity they required to manifest their hate. But it was more, for the law said, "Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree." "Him" - the Perfect Man, who did no sin and knew no sin. The Son of God given for us. Despised, forsaken, crowned with thorns, nailed to a cross, made sin for us.
THE GREAT DIVIDE. "On either side one" (John 19 v 18). The Lord separated men. He is in the "midst." Reconciling men to God, but dividing between the sinner and the saint. We cannot be neutral. We are His, saved by grace through faith, or if not, we are against Him, children of wrath. There were two men, they were suffering justly for their deeds, one was saved, and one was lost. The one who was saved confessed Him as Lord. The other died railing.
FOR A LAST THOUGHT "Jesus in the midst" (John 19 v l8). Rejected by men, and forsaken by God. Coming between the just wrath of God and guilty men. He endured the penalty of our sins, and by His death reconciled the believer to God. On the middle cross there was One who had no sin in Him, but our sins were laid on Him. The penitent thief had sin in him, but because the Lord had borne it he had no sin on him. The other died in his sins, and therefore he had sin on him, as well as sin in him.
They nailed my Lord Upon the tree And left Him dying there,
Through love He suffered their for me
Twas love beyond compare.
Crucified, crucified
And nailed upon the tree.
With pierced hands and feet and side,
For you, for me.
*****************************************************************************************
Young People's Fellowship
Report for December '98. February '99.
Again this quarter, the YPF meetings have been varied. For our first December meeting, we watched a video which spoke to us about our witness to our friends and whether we could be accused of never telling them of their need of the Saviour. I think we all need to be challenged in this area, and that night we certainly were. Our next 'meeting' was our now annual carol singing outing when we visit a few of the more elderly church members. We always enjoy this (hopefully so do our hosts) and this year we finished up at John's house for supper. Also in December, we went to 'Castle Erin' in Portrush for our Christmas dinner and party. On the whole, we enjoyed the meal (if you discount the general dislike of the traditional brussel sprouts), and although the room for the party was not particularly suitable, we still managed to have an enjoyable evening.
We began 1999 with a visit to Ballyclare Baptist youth fellowship when we had a good time together endeavouring to design an eye-catching poster to show the relevance of Christianity in today's society. On Sunday 17 January, under the title "I wi11 attend this meeting," we looked at New Year resolutions. What resolutions we should make as Christians, and how we could keep these promises for more than a few days into the New Year. Wellington Street YPF visited us to round off January, as with all our inter fellowship meetings, we enjoyed the meeting and again were challenged by the Word brought from Haggai on how so often we can let materialism rule our lives. The message to us all "Consider your ways" Haggai 1 v 7.
An all male panel of Auldwyn Calderwood and John McCaughey returned in February to answer more of the questions posed by the young people and again I trust we all learned something. The Beacon Fellowship from Dunaghy took our meeting on 28 February. As well as enjoying the quiz and the choir, one the group Glenn, told us of his vision to help street children in Brazil and his plans to go as a missionary to help them practically as soon as he can obtain a visa.
The choir has again been kept busy singing as we go to take other YPF meetings. This year the youth choir was responsible for the evening caro1 service in church and we also sang on the Saturday night of our missionary weekend. As ever opinions on the singing are generally complementary, BUT "if only you'd smile more."
And finally ... once again a BIG thank you to all those who helped us in any way, we really do appreciate it, and if you don't already please remember the young people in your prayers. Pray for the salvation of those as yet unsaved, for the spiritual growth of the Christians, and that they would be able to resist the temptations that Satan would place in their way. Also for those abroad: Susan Bankhead in Spain, Jonathan Williamson in America and Noeleen Livingstone soon to return from America.
If you are secondary school age upward, Please plan to come along to the youth fellowship meetings Which take place fortnightly, on Sunday evenings from 8.00pm to 9.45pm.
You will he made very welcome.
******************************************************************************************
"PASSING THROUGH"
"We went through fire and through water: but Thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place" Psalm 66 v12.
"He brought me forth also into a large place: He delivered me: because He delighted in me" 2 Sam 22 v 20.
Tis oft-times through the fire and flood,
A wealthy place we reach,
And in the darkest night our God
New songs to us can teach.
When passing through the 'vale of tears,'
Some bow of promise bright
Shines through the cloudy sky o'er head
And floods the way with light.
Tis out of weakness, thus alone
In Him we are made strong,
And grace sufficient He doth give,
To triumph over wrong.
How often 'tis with tear dimmed eyes,
We learn our Father's will,
And prove He sorrow sends to us
His purpose to fulfil.
Why should we from His dealings shrink,
From trial or from pain,
If thus we' re closer drawn to Him,
And higher heights we gain.
"Blessed is the man whose strength is in Thee; in whose heart are the ways of them, who passing through the valley of Baca make it a well; the rain also filleth the pools." Psalm 84 v 5,6.
Submitted by Jean Craig.
*********************************************************************************************
The non-church goer cannot be reached by a non-going church!
*********************************************************************************************
THANKSGIVING
Even though I clutch my blanket and growl when the alarm rings every morning -
Thank you Lord that I can hear; there are many who are deaf.
Even though I keep my eyes tightly closed against the morning light as long as possible-
Thank you Lord that I can see; there are many who are blind .
Even though I huddle in my bed and put off getting up,-
Thank you Lord that I have strength to rise; there are many who are bed-ridden.
Even though the first hour of my day is hectic - socks are lost, toast is burnt and tempers are short-
Thank you Lord, for my family; there are many who are lonely.
Even though our breakfast table never looks like those in the ladies' magazines and the menu is sometimes unbalanced-
Thank you Lord for the food we have; there are those who go hungry.
Even though my job is often monotonous, or stressful -
Thank you Lord for the opportunity to work; there are many who are out of work and unemployed.
Even though I grumble from day to day and wish my circumstances were not quite so modest-
Thank you Lord for the gift of life.
***************************************************************************************
UNCHANGING LOVE
Unchanged love-
When MY FEELINGS WOULD SAY
There's no purpose or plan
In what happened today;
The sorrow and heartache,
Through which you have passed,
Means God has forsaken-
Your cause will be lost!
But His promises assures me
Of UNCHANGING LOVE,
So I'll trust God, my Father,
And rest in His love!
Vera Smith.
********************************************************************************************
Ballee Baptist Church Tape Ministry.
We Preach Christ Crucified
Tapes-
We would like to take this opportunity to inform all the readers of our magazine that
all services which take place in our church are recorded and tapes are available on request. Tapes may be purchased at a cost of £ 1:50 each, hired at a small charge of 50p or loaned, free of charge, to those who are unable to attend due to age, illness or other infirmities. Tapes usually contain both and Tuesday evening Bible Studies are recorded on separate tapes.
Helpful Hints-
It is the aim of the Tape Ministry Team to produce tapes of each service which are of high quality and are enjoyable to listen to. Below we have listed a few way's which
you, as listeners of our tapes, can help care for the tapes themselves and in our effort to produce tapes of a quality which you will enjoy.
Rewind tapes fully
If tapes are faulty or become damaged, they should be reported to the Team so they can be discarded and will not be used again.
Cassette recorded heads should be cleaned and de-magnetised regularly-
enquiries should be directed to any member of the Tape Ministry Team. Whilst there is no time limit on hired tapes, prompt return is much appreciated.
Loop System-
Our Church building is fitted with a loop system for those wearing hearing aids.
Hearing aids should be switched to the T position while listening to speakers in the Church. Since we are in control of this from the recording studio, it is our responsibility to ensure that those using the system find it satisfactory and benefcal. If you have any queries about the system, these should be directed to a member of the Tape Ministry Team.
*****************************************************************************************
Announcements
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY.
Sun 11th April 6:30p.m. Baptismal Service.
Sun 25th April 11 :30 a.m. & 6:30p.m. Auldwvn Calderwood
Sun 9th May 6:30p.m. Wesley Coulter.
Sun 6th June 11 :30a.m. & 6:30pm. Anniversary Sunday
Pastor Victor
Maxwell {Banbridge Baptist
Sun 13th June 11 :30am. & 6:30p.m. Cecil Boyd { Olivet Assembly}
Sun 20th June 11 :30a.m. & 6:30p.m. Youth Sunday.
Pastor Mike Ewan { Whitehead Baptist}
Sun 27th June 6:30p.m. David Mitchell.
BIBLE STUDY
NOTE~ The Bible Study season ends On Tuesday 27th April, From May to August the prayer meeting will move from the Friday night to the Tuesday night.
Deacons
At our A.B.M on 11th February 1999 the fo11owing were elected to the position of deacon for the year: - Ivan Bankhead, Auldwyn Calderwood, Wesley Coulter, Raymond Herbison, Stephen Irons, Sammy Moore, Ken Storey.
NEW ARRIVALS
Congratulations
To Bill & Sharon Cull on the birth of Lauren 15/2/99
Hugh & Sonya Smyth on the birth of Ethan Mark David 23/3/99
Holiday Bible Club from Monday 5th July to Friday 9th July
Place: - Ballee Baptist Church.
Time 10:30 am - 12:30pm.
**************************************************************************************