What is your earliest memory of the Holy Bible?

That was a question our bible study leader Rev. Mary Wrye proposed to our bible study group this morning. Several related scripture verses and their challenges of memorizing scripture at a young age.

Mine was different than that. My first recollection of the Bible was my namesake Miss Mabel Nisbet McLaughlin and rather small black New Testament that sat on a marble top table. I was always told it was a special book and was always to be on top of other books.

To this day, I cannot see a bible put at the bottom of any stack of books. Some in my group said they were taught that the bible was never to be placed on the floor. I wasn’t taught that one but if the bible was put on the floor it was to be on top of other books.

Granny Mable always told me that book was special. She said if I was to ever be elected president of the United States that would be the bible that I would be sworn in on. She had great expectations of me.

Many times in Mrs. Willis Butler’s 4-6 grade Sunday School classes at my growing up church we were charged with memorizing the books of the bible. I never could do that. Later we were involved with bible drills. I couldn’t do that either. I thought they should let us use Bibles with tabbed markers for the books, but they said that was cheating.

Always during Vacation Bible School each year we would do a pledge to the bible. I remember it being something like this:

I pledge allegiance to the Bible, God's Holy Word. I will make it a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path and will hide its words in my heart that I might not sin against God.

Thank goodness there was church music! For without church music and hymns I would not have learned any scripture at all.

Tell me about your earliest memory of the Bible?

Christmas memories of a ‘grand lady’

---

This is a story that Hugh Edward Sanderfur –a  long time radio and newspaper reporter in Henderson KY wrote about the lady who gave me the name Nibby.  He wrote the story upon her death in 1971.  It was very unusual for him to write about people on their death.  Granny Mable was very special to him.

(A reprint from Gleaner December, 1971)

This is the story of the Christmas card that will not be delivered. Not this year.

But it had been every Christmas for the past 45 years because of the constant thoughtfulness of one of the truly grand ladies of my life--Miss Mabel Nisbet McLaughlin.

“Miss Mabel,” as she was known by her many friends and admirers, died last week (December 7, 1971).

But she will never really be gone as long as there are those to remember her role in their lives.

A group of men, no longer young, will always be proud to be identified as “Miss Mabel’s boys.”

They were fortunate enough, when in their early teens, to have the influence of this woman as a Sunday School teacher at First Methodist Church for a longer period than usual. This was simply because they would not be promoted.

But the Sunday did come when it had to be done. True to her strength of character. Miss Mabel insisted that she be the one to break the news to us.  She explained that it was the orderly thing to do, for the good of the total church program. She expressed regret in losing us but encouraged us to move on to another teacher.

But our resistance was so strong that we walked out of the church, which broke up the group. Some did not return.

I did. The next Sunday, because of the strong encouragement of another stabilizing force in my life--my mother. But this left a void that could only be eased by the annual Christmas card, along with notes of encouragement at many points along the way when she knew her encouragement was needed.

This same feeling is shared by at least a dozen of my age group scattered across the nation. This is a living and loving monument to a lady who did so much without realizing how significant and meaningful was her contribution.

Miss Mabel was a skilled office worker before her retirement and was employed at Imperial Tobacco Co., where the Imperial Building is now located at Third and Water streets.

Aside from her dedication to the affairs of her church, she was one of the charter members of the Henderson Business and Professional Women’s Club, and contributed to its growth and success in past years.

Her “bread on the waters” came in the form of a young couple, Mr. and Mrs. Norris Priest who, several years ago, “adopted” Miss Mabel and brought much happiness and security into her life in her closing years.  

They even brought her “grandchildren,” (Nibby and Neal) who helped to fill her heart with love and interest in living.

The devotion of this fine young family to this lady, who had outlived all of her own family, would make a great story of life and its compensations for those who entertain the proper values.

Gone is the flash of pleasant recollection when a letter would bear her familiar handwriting. But that is not needed for my mind to recall the pleasant relationship that we shared. Those memories will be re-lived always.

By Hugh E. Sanderfur (1912 to 1973)
The Gleaner Henderson Kentucky December 1971

It has been 39 years since Granny Mable died.  She would be so proud to know that the family is working and living in downtown Henderson KY and that her home at 324 N Main is still being used as a private residence.

Who is someone who made a difference in you and or your families life? 

What can you do this 2010 Christmas for someone who has outlived their own family?

Christ out of Christmas? Hogwash!

A grade school teacher whom I know was told this year that he couldn’t put up any reference of Christmas in his class room (yes, Henderson County Schools) - no Christmas party, no Christmas Tree and no manger scene.  When I was told the story, I was so mad and wanted to do something about this perceived injustice. Until . . . my pastor shared the letter below at my church today. I hear people talking about how Christ is being taken from Christmas. After reading this, I will not be participating in those conversations- what a waste of time. I will be doing what Christmas is all about –LOVE, showing GRACE and wishing everyone I come in contact with Merry Christmas!   I truly hope that during this Christmas season all my actions show the Christ Child’s presence in my life. Thanks Pastor Tim for sharing this “letter from Jesus”*.

Dear Children

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year. It was some of your predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival, although I do appreciate being remembered anytime.

How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children and grandchildren of your own. I don't care what you call the day.

If you want to celebrate My birth, just get along and love one another. Now, having said that...let Me go on... If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santa's and snowmen, and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that, there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees; you can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish...I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one about the vine, look up John 15:1-8.

If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth, here is my wish list; choose something from it:

1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know because they tell Me all the time.

2. Visit someone in a nursing home, not just during Christmas time, but all through the year. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.

3. Instead of writing "George" complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year...then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.

5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past... ...and forgive him or her.

6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference.

7. Instead of "nit-picking" about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" ,that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day, they'd close and let their employees spend the day at church and at home with their families

8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary -- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.

9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts giving them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me. They will even make the delivery for you.

10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions and words that you are one of mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest.

Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love...and remember... I LOVE YOU!

Jesus

*According to the internets the author of this letter is anonymous.

What unique way are you sharing the LOVE and GRACE of Christmas 2010?

Christmas 2010-Things to do in Henderson KY

This week a former resident of Henderson KY sent me an email and asked me about things to do in Henderson Kentucky this coming weekend for fun and to revive memories of living here in the past. Here is a short list of things for her to do that I came up with:

1. Watch the Merchants Christmas Parade live. If you are unable to watch live from downtown Henderson KY- go to DowntownHenderson.org and watch live the online streaming broadcast. The parade starts at the Main Street Rail Road overpass and circles around the block. The whole parade usually lasts around 2 hours. I would like to see this parade in future years moved to evening hours.

2. Eat at Downtown Diner on 1^st street. They have just recently renovated and have a nice new buffet.

3. Shop at Simon’s Fine Shoes and buy some Smartwool Socks. Your feet will never feel so good.

4. Visit Memories Past and Present – an antiques and gift shop located at 324 N Elm St in downtown Henderson with over 9000 square feet of display area. You surely will be able to find something there!

5. Have breakfast with Santa Clause at the St Paul’s Episcopal Church on Center Street from 8am till parade starts. This is a benefit for Riverview School which is also located in our downtown.

6. Check out the Historic Holiday Display at the Henderson County Welcome Center at the foot of 1^st Street on the banks of the Ohio River.

7. Eat at the newly renovated Wolf’s Tavern & Restaurant at 31 N Green. They just reopened under new management and a new menu. They serve lunch and dinner 6 days a week and offer a menu with quite the variety of food.

8. Buy some Safari Sunset Tea from Third Street House at 307 Third St.

9. Check out the “Christmas in the Park” light display in Central Park downtown.

10. Drive by Colonial Court (at the beginning of North Main St) and see a cute little neighborhood all decorated and lighted up for the Christmas Holiday. Probably one of the most spectacular views in the Downtown Henderson area.

11. Eat some fried chicken at Bon Ton Mini Mart 2036 Madison St Henderson KY.

12. Watch a movie at our NEW Movie Theater Showplace Cinema on US 41 North.

13. Hike the Trails at Audubon State Park then eat at Gene’s Restaurant.

14. Attend the Alice P Taylor Concert Sunday afternoon, December 5, 2010, at Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Church.

15. Spend the night in Henderson KY’s premier bed and breakfast The L&N Bed and Breakfast Ltd.

16. Check out my Peace Themed light display at my home 330 N Water St, Henderson KY

What would you be adding to this list?

Mantra Review

Now with the help social media we encouraged Office Depot to be a team player in Henderson KY -I need to take time to review to myself and to pledge to others -my mantra for using social media.

What Nibby Priest  wants to be on Social Media is:

Genuine, Honest, Authentic, Encouraging, Enlightening, Educating, Professional and Positive !

What about You?

47 years selling and repairing Jewelry in Downtown Henderson KY

Louise Mattingly (AKA Hat Lady) is retiring today from Campbell’s Jeweler.

She has worked there for over 47 years and is 84 years old. 

What a career of selling and repairing jewelry for the folks in Henderson KY.

Campbell Jeweler has been in operation in downtown Henderson KY since 1962.

Louise is often called Mrs. Campbell.  Her almost instant reply is “oh I’m not-- my husband Bill had hair!”  Louise is known for her fine fashions and impeccable style and wit.  She will be missed in downtown. 

A reception is being held in her honor today at Campbell’s Jeweler from 10 am till 4 pm.

What is your favorite story about Louise?

Halloween Memories: Weak Kool-Aid, Reese Cups & Church Fortune Tellers

This blog post is adapted from the children’s moment at my church Community Baptist Church today.

Memories are a wonderful thing. What are some memories you have of Halloween and growing up?

One of the nice things about getting older is that you have better memories than when you did when you are young.

One of my memories that I have of Halloween Parties of the past was at my growing up church. We would play games, wear costumes and ingest lots of weak Kool-Aid and Reese Cups.

These parties would take place in the church basement or social hall now known as the “youth room”. My growing up church is in downtown Henderson KY  it is a very old church. One thing is for sure sometimes you would hear strange noises or feel like someone was around, and they were not. I think it was the friendly Holy Ghost. The floors would creek and the place even smells old.

Two things that I remember most about the Halloween parties were the spook house and the fortune teller.

We would convert the church social hall into a fun Halloween experience. The haunted hallway was converted into a spook house. We would take cooked spaghetti and refrigerate it and have people stick their hands in it and tell them it was human brains. We would take grapes and freeze them and tell people that it was eyeballs- all things that gave people a scare. It was a fun experience putting the haunted house together. It was a memory.

In another closet off of the social hall we had a fortune teller setup. The fortune teller was good she dressed up nice had a Chrystal ball, a deck of cards and everything. She would invite people into the hall closet and tell them of this incredible future they had. I had to try out the fortune teller many times because she told me of so many good things that were going to happen to me, I just couldn’t resist.

My fellow friends enjoyed it too and would go back multiple times. It became so interesting that the adults starting going in the closet to have their fortune told. Yes, this was taking place in the basement of the First Baptist Church.

The lady who was fortune teller was Mrs. Mary Bullard. She was quite a stitch of a lady. Us kids really loved her. She was a school teacher and a music lover. Her daughter Jeannie was the church organist for many years and her husband JC ran the sound system for the church. She went with us on many church music camps and always kept us entertained with many of her bigger than life stories.

The next year Halloween rolled around, we had another party at the church. Since Fortune Teller Mrs. Bullard was such a hit she was asked back and again the adults enjoyed her prognostications as well. She told one lady she was going to have a baby- she did a few months later. She told another she was going to get married- she did a few months later. At that point, I think the fortune teller character at the church Halloween parties was axed for future years.

We all know that “immortal invisible, God is only wise” and only God knows our future. What we do know are that God’s people (like Mrs. Bullard) can create for us memories that help God live in our lives.

Mrs. Bullard died in October 8, 1990 but her memories of love and care for us kids live on today.

Mrs. Bullard taught many of the young musician programs at the church. During those programs, we learned many songs I still remember today that tell me bible stories and lessons Jesus taught.  She created for me memories.

How many attended bible studies this morning at 9:45 a.m. (or as we used to call it Sunday School)? If you didn’t I encourage you to remind your responsible adults to get to church each Sunday early so you can attend and make memories like I did when I was your age.

I will tell you another short story that I heard this week. Someone said that they missed going to church for about six weeks this summer and when they came back nobody missed them.

This is another reason we need to be a part of bible study/Sunday school or small groups. When we are in smaller groups and meet regularly like we do each Sunday here at Community Baptist Church  it makes it easier for all of us to check on those that are missing.