A Band of Brothers
by Steve Higginbotham

Much is made of the camaraderie and brotherhood of our soldiers. Yesterday, while listening to the radio, I heard how this camaraderie is exemplified. Martin Savage, of CNN, offered four marines the opportunity to call home. One marine asked if he could give his call to another marine so that he could call his wife who was expecting. The other three marines asked to use their calls to call the parents of a young man who had been killed in action. Savage was so touched by their selflessness and camaraderie, that he broke down and said, "where do they get young men like this?"

It's heartwarming to hear of stories like this. Examples of human compassion, friendship, and selflessness are the kind of stories that rekindle our faith in our fellow man.

But what about the camaraderie and brotherhood that should exist among the soldiers of Christ? Do we routinely exhibit selfless love and concern for each other? Is it clear to all that the body of Christ, Christians, possess a sense of camaraderie and brotherhood unparallel to anything in this world?

Brethren, don't let petty differences keep you from behaving like a brother. We're soldiers in the army of Christ. We face a daunting opponent. We need each other in this battle. If we have to worry about "friendly fire" as well as the assaults of the enemy, our effectiveness will be severely hampered. On the other hand, if we know that we don't stand alone; if we know that we are a part of a "band of brothers" we'll be emboldened by the camaraderie and acts of heroism will become routine and expected.•

NEXT SATURDAY!! Orange Street LADIES' DAY "Hats Off To You, Christian Woman!" Saturday - April 12, 2003 9:30 am - 1:00 pm Registration 9-9:30 Coffee Juice & Donuts

Fishers of Men
The Fishers of Men group is scheduled to meet tomorrow evening in the annex. Members of the group are encouraged to attend.

Ladies
There is a Baby Shower planned for Natalie Hirsh, at 3pm his afternoon at Renee Hurn’s home. All are invited to attend.

Youth Devo
The regular monthly Youth Devotional and fellowship is scheduled for tonight (Sunday) after worship services, at the home of Frank and Peggy Nabors.

Sympathy
Our hearts go out in sympathy to Nancy Norton and family in the passing of her brother-in-law, Charles Maxwell, this past week in Ohio. Keep Nancy and Bill in your prayers.

VBS Meeting
There will be a VBS meeting, after the evening services, NEXT Sunday, April 13. Teaching materials will be passed out so please plan to attend.

When Jesus, the great physician, said, “forgive seventy times seven”, he prescribed the medication needed for the soul. Booker T. Washington, who became famous in spite of prejudice against his color, being insulted many times, said, “I will not let any man reduce my soul to the level of hatred”.

Upcoming Area Events

Apr 12 - Ladies Day
Orange Street, "Hats Off To You, Christian Woman"
May 2-4 - “Youth Retreat”
Weeki Wachee Christian Bible Camp