In science classes we can learn much about trees. They produce oxygen, provide shelter for birds and many animals, give us fruit or nuts, and are used for lumber, paper, and other goods. Did you realize that trees are mentioned throughout the Bible? From the first chapter of Genesis to the last chapter of Revelation, we find references to trees. In Jeremiah 17:7-8 we read, “Blessed are those who trust is the Lord. They shall be like a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green; in the year of drought it is not anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit.” Remember to put your trust in the Lord each day. May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor of the Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

Revelation 16:8-9 ...and the sun was allowed to scorch people with fire. 9They were seared by the intense heat and they cursed the name of God, who had control over these plagues, but they refused to repent and glorify him. more

For many years, skeptics have proposed that the post-resurrection appearances of Jesus Christ were simply mass hallucinations. This theory suggests that those who claimed to see Jesus after His crucifixion — including the apostles and other followers — were so consumed by grief, hope, or emotional strain that they collectively imagined these encounters. While the idea may seem plausible at first, a closer look at both biblical accounts and psychological understanding reveals significant flaws in this explanation. more

Ozarks Christian Academy, a private Christian academy known for its commitment to academic excellence and character development, proudly unveils its new mascot, symbolizing a significant milestone in its rich history. more

The Chancel Choir of First United Methodist Church of West Plains is inviting you to join us for our annual Christmas cantata.  Our cantata, “Carry the Light” is a concert of choral music and narrations that celebrates the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. . All choir lovers in our community are welcome to participate. Rehearsals begin Wednesday, September 11th from 7-8pm in the sanctuary of FUMC. However, you can begin attending any Wednesday night in September. The performance will be Sunday, December 8th at 10am. There are no fees to join, we just want your voice and your presence!  more

Matthew 26:39 And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. more

As believers, the journey of faith is one that invites deep introspection, reflection, and sometimes, questions. The Bible, as the cornerstone of Christian belief, offers a wealth of guidance on this subject. But what does Scripture really say about questioning and examining our faith? Are we, as believers, called to ask questions? Are we allowed to challenge the words of our religious leaders? This exploration will delve into these questions, drawing from specific biblical texts to uncover the truth. more

In The One Year Book of Amazing Stories, Robert Petterson tells the story of Jack, a boy struggling with the disability of stuttering whose father worked such long hours that Grace, his mother, had to be both mom and dad. Jack readily acknowledged that his mother had helped him become the man he became. more

Romans 4:3 "What does Scripture say? 'Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness.'” more

Both of my children sang in choirs at school, church, and college. They received vocal training in school, and I have enjoyed many excellent choir concerts in which they participated. The beauty of the music was never an accident. It happened because of time devoted to instruction, effort, and rehearsal. Singing in harmony was the result. Different parts sung together make something beautiful that no single person could do alone. more

Racism is an enduring issue that has plagued humanity for generations, sowing division and causing profound pain. As followers of Christ, we are called to confront this sin through the teachings of the Bible, which not only addresses racism but provides a clear guide on how we should treat one another, regardless of race, ethnicity, or background. more

The Yellow House Community Arts Center is thrilled to announce the 3rd Annual August Bazaar, a vibrant and joyous celebration taking place today from 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at 209 W. Trish Knight St., West Plains. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a fantastic lineup of activities, live music, delicious food, and unique art vendors. more

Recently I witnessed the joy of someone who had an important item returned after it had been dropped accidentally. It was an act of kindness by a stranger, and I think it was much appreciated. Last week I was grateful for the person in the car ahead of me who paid for my lunch in the drive-through line. Let me say “thank you” to that stranger, and to you, dear Reader, when you are kind. What a difference kindness makes in our world! In Galatians 5:22, the Apostle Paul tells us it is one of the fruit of the Spirit, which means it is evidence of God’s Spirit at work in us. We are instructed in Ephesians 4:32 to “be kind to one another”, and surely it is because kindness is an attribute of God and a quality visible in Jesus. May it be visible in us. Remember Mark Twain’s words, “Kindness is the language that the deaf can hear and the blind can see.” God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor, Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

Evangelism is often considered the heartbeat of the Christian faith—a sacred duty given to every believer by Christ Himself. As Christians, we are called to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world, a world that is in desperate need of the hope, love, and salvation that only He can provide. The responsibility of evangelism is not just for pastors or missionaries; it is a mandate for every follower of Christ. This calling is deeply rooted in Scripture and has been the driving force behind the spread of Christianity throughout history. more

John 12:32 And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me. more

This Sunday, The Bridge Church is hosting a special Sunday Night Hymn-Sing; a night of music featuring favorite hymns of the church.  Everyone who enjoys the beloved hymns and gospel songs sung down through the years can come and enjoy this event.   more

As the school year begins, I am reminded of my own years in school. My classmates would sometimes convince me to ask the teacher to give us longer to turn in our homework. I was asked to intercede, that is, act as a go-between, to plead for the needs of another. Jesus intercedes for us before God. The Apostle Paul says in Romans 8:26, the Spirit intercedes for us, prays for us. “In certain ways we are weak, but the Spirit is here to help us. For example, when we don’t know what to pray for, the Spirit prays for us in ways that cannot be put into words.” CEV When we struggle to pray, we can be sure that the Holy Spirit of Christ himself comes to our aid. God hears our prayers. May God bless your week! Diane Cooke, Pastor of the Presbyterian Churches, Willow Springs and Mtn. View. more

The Bible, an extraordinary collection of sacred texts, is the bedrock of Christian faith. It took approximately 1,500 years to compile these texts, from the earliest writings of the Old Testament to the final chapters of the New Testament. But for nearly 2,000 years now, no new writings have been added. Why has this happened? Why hasn't the Bible been updated with new revelations or rearranged to fit a chronological order? And if the Bible is divinely inspired, why can’t modern writers also produce divinely inspired works? Let's dive into these intriguing questions. more

Genesis 2:17 But you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat from it you will certainly die. more

Moving from childhood into puberty and then to adulthood is never easy. The “tween” stage is often a period filled with intense questions and major self-doubt. De-spite that, most people survive those challenging years without long-term complica-tions. more