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What a tremendous life it is being a Christian. Yes, there are times of struggles, trials, testing, but wonderful times of excitement and adventure. I enjoy adventure. As an only child, I remember times of playing in the barn or in the “forest” behind our property and imagining all kinds of adventures. Never did I imagine the adventures of traveling that the Lord has allowed me to experience. Not to bore you with “the family slide show from last summer’s vacation” but, you have been a part of sending me on adventures to Africa, Egypt, Israel, Lebanon, Jordan, the islands of Bahamas and Jamaica and now New Zealand.I wish you could have traveled with me as I boarded the airplanes for LA, Auchland and finally Napier, Hawkes Bay.

New Zealand was not the cultural shock that you or I would experience in other lands. The cities are modern. The cars are like ours (with the exception of the steering being on the wrong side). The Chevrolet is called the “Holden” there and is manufactured in Australia. They have McDonald’s, Pizza Hut as well as their own Pizza chain called “Hells Pizza.” No, I never ate there. Joel would not take me! The people are friendly and open, yet don’t commit easily. The teens are just as loud, rowdy and rambunctious as those who live in your home.

After missing a connecting flight and arriving in Napier a couple of hours late, I was greeted at the airport by Joel, Beverly, Daniel, Joseph and Sarah. They took me first of all to a beautiful overlook of Hawkes Bay, then we traveled about 30 minutes to their home on Taihape road. There I was introduced to Jessie Jane, their lab puppy as well as the three pigs (not the little ones your thinking about), the other dog and the two ponies. Life for the Shoaf’s is spent raising a family, taking care of the necessities of life and ministering to the people of NZ. Napier Independent Baptist Church is currently meeting in a “meeting hall” in Hastings. It is a young work with a lot of transient members. Joel plays guitar and leads the congregational singing along with Beverly (many of you remember Bev’s beautiful voice). The two Sunday’s I was there I met Christians from Ireland, South Africa and, of course, NZ. A truly international work.

My main purpose for being in NZ was to be the speaker for the week at camp with 40 plus teenagers. What a great time! I was really impressed with the attention these “kids” gave to the word. I preached a series of sermons on the “Issues of the Heart” which seemed to really reach the heart of those kids. We had a lot of activities as you would imagine at camp. Since the camp was located on a “river,” there were water sports including kayaking, ski boating, swimming and, of course, the “rope swing.” There were a lot of decisions made at camp including salvation, dedication and surrender for ministry of the Word. I realized that I was looking at the next generation which could reach the people of NZ. What a responsibility to minister to these kids. I simply obeyed the Lord and this open door and the Lord worked through me to impact the lives of NZ’s next generation. What an adventure to be a part of what the Lord is doing in His world. You were a part of this, also. You prayed and gave so that I might go. For your faithfulness, you will be a part of any “fruit” or reward from this adventure.

Next time, why not plan to go with me?

From The Desk of Pastor Matthews. . .by Frankie Matthews

Have you read Dr. Kregg Hood’s book yet?

I have never stuck to the rigid planning of a sermon calendar. I understand the convenience of planning a year or two in advance what sermons I will preach but I feel that I have to be free to preach what the Holy Spirit has for us. Many times following a liturgical calendar hinders the leading of the Holy Spirit. That was until I decided to always have a stewardship emphasis during the first months of the year! I believe this is the best decision I have made since becoming Senior Pastor in 1991.

Setting the tone for the year, by emphasizing the managing of our lives in a way that glorifies God, has made a great difference in my ministry and my personal life as well. I know that many times when the issue of stewardship comes up, most people think automatically about money. Stewardship involves more than our finances. It includes every area of our life, our time, talent, as well as our treasure. We are to glorify God with our life! Ever part of our being! When we get our priorities right, we begin to live the abundant life that God intended and Jesus promised. Stewardship is important knowing that one day we will stand before God to give an account of how we managed the resources which are given unto us by God. Those resources include more than just our financial assets. It includes all the abilities which we possess; physical and intellectual. Abilities to encourage, to influence, to motivate others and to move ahead. One day we will give an account of the things done in this flesh.

Surveys, regarding the giving of Church members who claim to be born again, show that a very small percentage of Christians give according to Biblical standards. It may just be that we are enslaved by problems that go beyond the ability “to do the math”. It may be we are dealing with the issues and problems of the heart. Dr. Hood’s book will be a valuable tool to begin to dig our way out of the Debt Trap!

Have you read it yet?

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Hightower Highlights . . .by Dan Hightower

Each year our faculty goes to the Association of Christian Schools International Teachers Convention in Greensboro. As I was driving the bus back on Friday, I looked up in the mirror, knowing I had to write this article. My dream was to let you see what I saw. One company was giving away suckers so, as I looked up, most of the ladies had suckers. The real picture was a group of teachers discussing a seminar they attended. Each one was crying, talking about how they could help this child or that child with their new found knowledge. Further back, a group was laughing and talking about their seminar. Several were asking for funds to do this for their class or “can we sell suckers to pay for this?” One teacher was excited about a vender who was selling software to put grades and homework on the computer for parents to visit daily. To look in that mirror and see what I saw was exciting and a special blessing. Many of you don’t get to see the heart’s desires of our faculty. Each child is thought of as an individual, each child is prayed for, and each child is loved.

Arriving back at the school, we had a CPR and First Aid class waiting for us. Watching these same teachers give CPR to the adult dummies and then to baby dummies, watching them laugh and squirm as they viewed the video on First Aid, impressed upon me their care and dedication to their students. Friends, let me say “Thank You” for my ministry you have given me here at Sheets! It’s times like these that keep me going when my “job” gets hard. When I have to correct a child, it hurts me just as much as it does you as a parent. It hurts our teachers just as much as it does you as a parent. Why, you ask? Because God has called each teacher and staff member, here, to this ministry, and we love your child. Please pray for us as we minister daily; offering “a quality education from a Christian perspective” in a setting of a home away from home. We, each, want to love your child, grandchild, niece or nephew just as you do and to share with them God’s creation and the life around them from a Christian World view. So, when they grow up, we will have had a small part in changing our world for God.

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YOUTH NEWS by Ethan Woodward

Am I writing about summer events already? Many of us can look fondly back to a place where we attended some sort of summer camp. For me, it was Higher Ground Baptist Bible Camp and for a week out of every summer I would join other youth in an adventurous week of endless fun, laughter and, most importantly, Bible Study. As I look back over the years of my life I realize that some of the most important decisions that I have made regarding my spiritual walk were made at a camp of some sort. Decisions that are still impacting my life today! It is likely, because of this reason, that I am such a staunch supporter of summer Bible Camps. I believe that at camp, the potential for eternal change in a young person’s life is boundless. What an incredible ministry a summer Bible camp can be! As a youth pastor, I have spent a great deal of time praying and considering where our youth group might attend camp this summer. A number of factors led me to decide that High Point Camp in High Point, Pennsylvania would be a good choice for our group. I am really praying that this week would have a tremendous impact on each and every individual that attends and that this would prove to be the week that would launch ENDZONE Youth Ministries to the next level of spiritual maturity. Will you start praying with me, even today, for every detail involved with that week and that the lives of our youth here at Sheets will be changed for eternity?

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Fire your pastor!...Courtesy of BBN

Take a minute from your busy schedule and meditate with me over a great spiritual truth.

Want to fire your pastor? I don’t mean get rid of him; I mean excite him. Here’s how! These comments will thrill his heart:

1. “We were getting ready for church and company dropped in. So we brought them with us. We can’t bear to miss church.”

2. “Of course, I will teach the class. I would count it a privilege.”

3. “Pastor, I’ll be delighted to help any way I can.”

4. “Sure, pastor, I’ll gladly give my part.”

5. “Pastor, God was surely speaking through you to me today. Thank you.”

6. “Yes, I’ll go visiting this week.”

7. “Yes, I’ll take a turn in the nursery.”

8. “Pastor, you’re God’s man, and I’ll follow your leadership.”

9. “Pastor, I pray for you and your family everyday.”

10. “Pastor, I thank God for you and what your ministry has meant to my family.”

Honestly, pastors most often hear criticism and not compliments in a church. Cooperation is all that most pastors really want, but most often it doesn’t happen. It should-and it could-if you would put yourself in your pastor’s place.

So, love your pastor. Pray for him. Encourage him. Help him. Support him. It will really “fire him up” to better serve the Lord-and you and your family!

Selah!

A holy minister is an awful weapon in the hand of God.-- Paul Borthwick

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What’s New in Our Library

High School

Elementary School

Memorials

Honor Gifts

Donated By:

Anonymous

Racing to Win

Bread Upon the Waters

Free At Last

(and others)

Carolyn Bruff

Return with Honor

The Good Earth

The Yearling

(and others)

Amy Nida

A Name of Her Own

Season of Blessing

The Road Ahead

(and others)

Donated By:

Carolyn Bruff

The New Kid on the Block

Amelia Bedelia

Stan the Hot Dog Man

More Games and Giggles

(and many others)

Zeb Perrell

In the Beginning

Adam and Eve

Abraham Friend of God

(and others)

Anonymous Gifts

The Tortoise and the Hare

Molly’s Surprise

Amazing Tricks

(and many others)

To: Hilda Benfield

From: Berea Bible Class

“The Jabez Prayer Collection”

To: Grandchildren

From: Carolyn Bruff

“When Washington Crossed the Delaware” (2 copies)

To: Mildred Coppley

From: Lee and Barbara Wrenn

“The Candle in the Window “Silent Night Holy Night

Please accept my appreciation for your many gifts to the library. You are invited to take advantage of the numerous books that provide good reading and information.

Lee Wrenn, Librarian

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VALENTINE BANQUET by Mildred Copley

Isn’t Cupid, supposedly; a mythical character that shoots a little bow and arrow to spark romance between two smitten people? Well, don’t you believe it! He’s real, kicking and alive and loaded with lots of special arrows that hit the target February 12th. The Annual Valentine Banquet got underway at 6:00 P.M., in the Fellowship Hall, with approximately 50 attending. Southern Lunch catered a great meal of ham, chicken pie and lots of trimmings. Katie Johnson’s beautiful voice serenaded the group with some of those songs much appreciated by the Seniors and not remembered by all the younger folk. Nonetheless, Cupid’s arrows were flying at some misty-eyed couples.

Traditional red and white still beautifully enhances the romantic theme of Valentine’s Day. Carol Gobble, Jim, Ginger Isenhour and their assistants are to be commended for all the arrangements. If you have never met Mr. and Mrs. Ogglegob, you missed a treat. Rob and Ginger Isenhour portrayed a husband and wife team who reflected on bad memory, walking canes, mismatched clothes, weak eye sight, etc. A great skit that helped seniors laugh at the many aches, pains and other problems facing those of us who have reached that span in our life. Carol Gobble conducted a game consisting of a spokesperson at each table relating facts of how couples met, married, etc. Ethan Woodward, Youth Pastor, spoke on “Having An Abundant Relationship With One Another”, based on Ephesians 4:32. Emphasis was focused on kindness, tender hearted and forgiving. His message reflected much wisdom from one married less than three years.

Gifts of candy were presented to Audry and Helon Brewer, having been married the longest, and Ethan and Megan for being married the shortest time. Congratulations!!!

In closing, Dennis Burnette, President of the DMA, presented flowers to Carol Gobble for her tireless efforts to make the evening special.

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IN LOVING MEMORY OF

RUTH MYERS

1914—2005

My Classmate and Friend in Christ

By: Mildred Coppley

(written prior to Ruth’s death)

I make it a point to arrive early on Sunday morning, giving me a chance to fellowship and share with other early-arriving members. Ruth Myers, as always, was there even earlier. Ruth’s husband, Graham, makes a point to be in his class, next door to the Berea Class, greeting the members of the Men’s Wide Awake Class. Reaching for Ruth’s hand, I ask how she is and did she have a good week? She responds with a smile; sometimes, “Yes”; and other times, “Alright.” Often, a few more words, as she attempts to form a sentence of her thoughts, revealing the slow deterioration of her precious memory.

Unlike most of the Berea Class members, Ruth often sits in a different chair each Sunday, as Graham makes sure she is safely seated. She is content and happy just to be there, no matter where she sits. Today, Ruth is seated next to the back row on the end. As she quietly dozes, those of us sitting behind her watch to protect her from falling over. I found myself struggling to focus on the lesson, today, being taken back to earlier and better Sundays, better health. My thoughts and concern drifted to other ladies whose health necessitated being placed into nursing facilities that provide care they needed. I recall Hilda Benfield, Maurine Shaw, Iris Whitley, no longer active members. Members, I know in my heart, that Ruth Myers would soon be added to the list of those who would no longer be physically able to meet with us on Sunday morning.

Most of us in the Berea Class are blessed with so many good memories of years passed. Recalling the get-togethers, lots of laughs and good family times. I’m saddened that old age, senility, health problems, etc. are quickly bringing to a close the things we have shared. And, even though our future is secure in the Father’s hand for an eternity of good times and precious fellowship, this human aspect in all of us is pained to see good friends taken from our midst. Perhaps, this is because we are trailing so close behind these acquaintances and unsure what God has planned for us. Ruth’s relatives have inquired if she is a bother on Sunday mornings and we quickly assure them she is never a problem, but a blessing. I believe God has given Ruth peace and serenity, realizing she is in her place, just where she has always been, faithfully serving Him in her own quiet way.

I marvel at that peace and that serenity reflecting God’s Presence in her life. As His child, we see her resting in the Lord’s loving care and assurance that she is loved and cared for. Most often, her quick smile and that sparkle seen in her eyes when you speak her name and reach for her hand, reveals that she knows she is cared for and has a special place in the class’ heart. Sometimes I wonder if that smile reflects memories of past Sunday mornings that were so dear to Ruth. Is her clouded memory recalling younger days and better health, compensating for a mind that cannot hold her present thoughts?

For nearly half a century, Ruth Myers has been my friend and classmate. I long to reach out for that hand, one more time, ask how she is and did she have a good week?, and hear a response that assures me she is back in the present and not in the past. Praise His Name, one day Ruth will do just that.

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DMA Goes to Seagrove..By: Bernadine Parks

Saturday morning, November 20, 2004, the DMA traveled to the Seagrove Pottery Festival. Ethan Woodward drove the bus for the 16 of us. His wife, Megan, “chaperoned”. The sky was cloudy and rainy when we left, but before we got there the sun was shining. We stopped in Asheboro at McDonald’s for breakfast. After breakfast, we traveled to Seagrove Elementary School where the festival was held. We spent several hours looking at the many varieties of pottery and other crafts. Quite a few of us made purchases for ourselves and for gifts. We also went to a couple other pottery shops. Many wanted to see a demonstration of pottery being made. A potter at Turn and Burn pottery shop was kind enough to turn a jug for us on his potter’s wheel as we watched. He answered our questions and explained all about the process that a piece goes through before it’s finished. We took pictures and were amazed at how simple he made it look.

We boarded the bus and headed to Asheboro where we had lunch at K & W. Afterwards, we headed back to the church and home. Everyone seemed to enjoy their trip. We encourage each and everyone to attend DMA events for fun, food, and fellowship.

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LOOKING BACK

The Dispatch NOVEMBER 14, 1959

RALLY DAY SET AT SHEETS

Sunday (November 15) is a special day at Sheets Memorial Baptist Church. It will be the climax day of a five weeks campaign in the Sunday school, and will be “Harvest Time Rally Day” with an attendance of over 600 set. It will also be the day for the closing messages from Rev. Earl Dannenberg missionary from French Equatorial Africa. He has been speaking nightly during this past week, and has brought messages that have been real challenges to the church and Sunday school. Mr. Dannenberg will speak at both services tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.The Rally Day in the Sunday school will be at 9:45 when the entire school meets in their various classes and departments. Each has set a goal for record attendance, and a systematic visitation of absentees and prospective members has been going on for a period of four weeks. This work has been made possible by the fine cooperation of all the workers with Odis Frank, superintendent, and Don Jordan, the youth and education director of the church. Four teams of visitors in addition to the teachers have carried out the work that it is hoped will produce a record attendance tomorrow. All are invited to all of these services.

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HEART SISTERS BRUNCH by Patricia Varron

After a few hours of shopping and decorating, we were ready for the annual Heart Sister Brunch, held on February 5, 2005. Nearly all of the ladies that had been involved in the Heart Sisters Ministry showed up for the delicious brunch and the revealing of their heart sister for last year. It is always fun to find out who has prayed for you and loved you in a special way all year. Many times when you are feeling down, God will put it on your Heart Sister’s heart to send you just a special card or give you just a little gift, for no special occasion, and it just seems to lift your spirit. You don’t know who this special person is for a whole year, but they do, and really make you feel special. It doesn’t need to be something large and expensive, just a note of encouragement and to say you are being prayed for is so special. Many ladies have enjoyed this ministry for several years and look forward to the brunch to have that special person revealed.Through the help of Edith Matthews and Marian Comer, the gifts are delivered and many behind the scenes tasks are done to make the year and then the brunch enjoyed by all.

Thanks for the love and prayers that have been shared by all the ladies in the Heart Sister Ministry and for a good time and good food enjoyed at the brunch. Join us in the ministry for a good time. As far as we can tell, the Heart Sister Ministry began in 1993 or 1994. This ministry has touched many ladies lives.

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SPORTSMAN’S BANQUET

Occasionally, when absent from the opposite sex, some men face accusations of engaging in primitive grunting, frantic eating and exuberant discourse. Although I have heard rumors of the sort happening in sophisticated NC, I figured certainly such activities, if they do indeed take place, must occur far away from the refined culture of Lexington. Sheets’ annual sportsman’s banquet on Saturday, March 5th presented an opportune time for me to gauge local decorum. As I delicately wove my way through the wave of rugged sportsman, I paid special attention to anything that would clue me in to this special breed. Most of the grunting occurred around the trophy display area where men viewed mounted deer, elk, bass, wolverine, and a whole plethora of other animals. Many of the grunts turned into downright “oohs” and “aahs” as eyes beheld the splendor of 12 year old Andy Myers’ 14 point trophy buck. Some grunts were also heard outside by Russ Gobble’s fryer where a rather large group of men had congregated to snitch a piping hot crappy and striper. (For the uninformed, grunts in a setting such as this can often mean: “delicious”, “excellent”, and “give me more!”) As the banquet moved indoors to the main feeding area I kept my senses alert to any unusual nourishment patterns. Delicacies such as catfish stew, grilled goose, quail delight, and deer of every kind of imagination waited. For the most part, things seemed to proceed as normal and nobody injured themselves in the mad rush to the food line. The night was interspersed with a great deal of brotherly fellowship and everybody seemed to have a good time swapping hunting/fishing stories. Former Youth Pastor, Rodney Wright, shared the gospel plainly in addition to encouraging the sportsmen to be diligent in sharing with others how Jesus Christ has impacted their life. The night’s festivities ended with a drawing for the collection of coveted door prizes. Golf tees, fishing gear, camping supplies and flashlights compiled just a few of the items given away at this year’s banquet. Todd Wallace took home the ultimate door prize (camping stove) by correctly identifying all seven pelts on display. If you missed this year’s banquet be sure to plan on attending next year. Steve Chapman will join us as our featured speaker and we look forward to once again gathering together as Christian sportsmen.

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STEWARDSHIP BANQUET HELD

Faithful Giving Keeps Goals On Schedule

by Mildred Copley

The completion of Pastor Matthews’ message, on stewardship, ended with a banquet Sunday evening, March 13th. The purpose of this event was:

1) To inform new members of the needs facing the church;

2) Inform the church of the results of funds already used;

3) Funds still needed to complete remaining projects in phase four;

4) To encourage church members as we see, first hand, the renovation and improvements already completed.

Ralph Barrow, chairman of the Board of Trustees, updated the audience, using slides to show completed repairs and projects still in progress. He informed us of funds received, costs on the first three phases and money needed in the future for phase 4. The trustees are to be commended for the great job done on the parsonage, fire escape steps, new rest rooms and the installation, in progress, of the elevator. Many have sacrificed to make the stewardship program a success. God has blessed our people, enabling them to give generously, and for their faithfulness and willingness to be a part of making our church building safe and attractive and one that welcomes new members.

Our appreciation goes to Dennis Burnette, Dan Hightower and all those who helped in preparing a great meal and a great evening. Jimmy Gobble, chairman of the Stewardship committee, reviewed the original goals of the stewardship drive. He reflected on previous banquets and accomplishments as he expressed appreciation for all who willingly gave toward this project and shared in the vision of a building that honors God. Brent Ward presented a selection of beautiful older songs and instrumentals, delighting the audience with “Dust on the Bible,” “Linger Near” and others. Pastor Matthews brought closure to the evening, reiterating thoughts from Matthew 25:21-23 and the words of Our Lord, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

As we look around and see the results of faithful children of God, cheerfully giving to His work, many of you can be assured of hearing, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”

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AWESOME

Courtesy Of: JeANETTE wILSON

This is almost overwhelming when you think about it.

Moses and the people were in the desert, but what was he going to do with them?

They had to be fed, and feeding 2 or 3 million people requires a lot of food.

According to the Quartermaster General in the Army, it is reported that Moses would have to have had 1500 tons of food each day. Do you know that to bring that much food each day, two freight trains, each at least a mile long, would be required!

Besides you must remember, they were out in the desert, so they would have to have firewood to use in cooking the food. This would take 4000 tons of wood and a few more freight trains, each a mile long, just for one day.

And just think, they were forty years in transit.

And Oh yes! They would have to have water. If they only had enough to drink and wash a few dishes, it would take 11,000,000 gallons each day and a freight train with tank cars, 1800 miles long, just to bring water!

And then another thing!

They had to get across the Red Sea at night. Now, if they went on a narrow path, double file, the line would be 800 miles long and would require 35 days and nights to get through. So there had to be space in the Red Sea, 3 miles wide so that they could walk 5000 abreast to get over in one night.

But then, there is another problem……..each time they camped at the end of the day, a campground two-thirds the size of the state of Rhode Island was required, or a total of 750 square miles long……..think of it! This much space for camping!

Do you think Moses figured all this out before he left Egypt? I think not!

You see, Moses believed in God. God took care of these things for him.

Now do you think God has any problem taking care of all your needs?

I asked the Lord to bless you as I prayed for you today. To guide you and protect you as you go along your way…… His love is always with you, His promises are true, And when we give Him all our cares, You know He will see us through.

Our God is an Awesome God!!!

So when the road you’re traveling on seems difficult at best, just remember to pray and God will do the rest.

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CHILDREN’S CHURCH by Laura Moretz

“Let the little children come unto Me, and forbid them not. . . .” Mark 10:14a. Where can you find fifteen (to twenty) 4 - 7 year olds drinking Kool-Aid, playing games, doing crafts and best of all, having a Bible story. Children’s Church! Introducing Jesus to some, teaching them how to serve on their level, and sparking their interest in the things of God are just a few goals of Children’s Church. It, also, provides parents an opportunity to worship without interruption.

I am grateful for the opportunity to teach these little ones. Besides myself, we have Stephanie Yountz, Lisa Paul and Tammy Pressley, serving as teachers at Children’s Church. I want to encourage parents to be at church each Sunday, and have their children at Children’s Church!

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