By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer PINEVILLE, La. (LBM) – Louisiana Baptists soon will have the opportunity, through Operation Christmas Child, to share the ultimate gift to children in other countries without ever leaving the state. Formed in 1993 by Samaritan’s Purse, the effort allows churches and individuals to bring gift-filled shoeboxes to relay stations across the country that are then processed and shipped to local partners around the world with a means of reaching out to children in their communities with the good news of Jesus Christ. National Collection Week is Nov. 14-21. Though simple, gifts such as small toys, hygiene items and school supplies bring a smile to children who may be affected by war, poverty, natural disaster, famine, and disease. OCC regional spokesperson Mary Deen, also a member of Journey Church, Pineville, told the Baptist Message the effort provides an opportunity for Christ followers to demonstrate God’s love in a tangible way to children who may not receive any other gift. “What captivated me when I filled my first box in 1993 was how this allows you to be a missionary in a box,” Deen said. “I can’t go over there and give gifts to children, but I can send a box … [Read more...]

By Brian Blackwell, Baptist Message staff writer SAN ANTONIO (LBM) – Evangelist Sammy Tippit has issued a prayer challenge based on the Model Prayer that he hopes will spark revival within the hearts of Louisiana Baptists – and it is interactive. The challenge features 13 dramatic monologue videos based on 13 biblical truths in the Model Prayer (Matthew 6:5-15), Tippit said, adding that there is no better example than Jesus’ about how to pray. Participants will receive a link each day throughout the 13-day challenge, giving them access to a brief video and helpful tips about how to pray the biblical phrase for that day. Additionally, each person will receive a section of “Simply Prayer,” a book on prayer by Bill Eliff, directional pastor of the Summit Church, Little Rock, Ark. After completing the challenge, participants will receive a chapter from Tippit’s book, “Praying for Your Family.” Tippit, who was saved at Istrouma Baptist Church in Baton Rouge and ordained at the First Baptist Church in Walker, said the challenge will help each participant develop a deep[1]er prayer life. He offered that that within two days of its release in August, the challenge had produced results, based on messages he has … [Read more...]