Fifth Ward Missionary Baptist Church
March 25, 2010 
Pastor Barksdale Online
"Greeting One Another In The Love Of Christ"
In This Issue
Weekly Message
News Update
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FWMBC Members and Friends,  
My primary reason for emailing you on a weekly basis is to inform you of current church events as well as to encourage you through the Word Of God.  I try to stay within the boundary of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Frequently however, I am asked to comment on issues of the day that also deal with politics and Government.  The question is sometimes asked, what does the "Separation of Church and State" mean?  When is the Church crossing the line?  Should the Church do more or less to engage its members in Governmental affairs?  I would like to hear from you on this issue.  I "may" publish "part" of your responses without mentioning your names.  Your opinion is important!
 
 Also pray for all who stand in the need of prayer! 
 
   
 
Pastor Barksdale
 
pastor 
  
Weekly Message 

 WHATEVER HAPPENED TO THE GOLDEN RULE?
 

Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.  (Matthew 7:12) 

 A little over a year ago (Feb. 26, 2009), I wrote a message entitled "THE GOLDEN RULE."  I pointed out that Jesus expected those who would be a part of His Kingdom to treat others as they wanted to be treated.  A "rule" is a standard of measurement that sets the parameter for others to go by.  I guess I missed the mark however, in that it appears that some people treat each other badly because they expect others to treat them badly.  I suppose I should have stated that we should treat others as we know Jesus would expect us to treat others.  Then we would be living up to the standards of the "Law and the Prophets."
 
I have truly been disappointed lately by the actions of some protesters on Capitol Hill as well as around the Country.  Reported incidents include: using the "N" word to refer to some Black Legislators; spitting on a Black Legislator as he entered the Congressional Building; threatening violence to individuals; and displaying signs that are defamatory and inflammatory.
 
Regardless of one's political persuasion, it is incumbent on Christians to speak out when such matters take place.  Regardless of how the "Golden Rule" is interpreted, being spit upon is not included as an acceptable act. 
 
 My hope and prayer is that civility becomes the order of the day, and we can all move on to accomplish those goals which further the Gospel of Jesus Christ.   As I mentioned in the previous article (Feb. 27, 2009), we should "just think on how wonderful our world would be if we all treated each other with respect, love, and generosity."  Perhaps that is just a pipe dream.  But remember, we can do all things through Jesus Christ Who strengthens us! 
News Update: 
March 28, 2010 - Fellowship at Olivet BC (3:30PM)  This is their Men's Annual Day and the Male Chorus is being asked to sing.
 
April 4, 2010 - Easter Services will be at 8:00AM and 11:00AM.
 
April 4, 2010 - The Easter Program will be at 3:30PM.  Please come out and support our Youth as they celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
 

April 18, 2010 - Trip to Jennings Louisiana for 3:30PM service.  We will fellowship with St. Paul Baptist Church where Rev. Pernell Trent (a son in the ministry) is celebrating his 6th Pastoral Anniversary.  There are still seats on the bus for you to help us show Rev. Trent that he is still thought of. Our morning services will be at 8:00AM and 10:30AM.
 
April 25, 2010 - Fellowship at Mt. Zion BC at 10:30AM  Dr. James Lightfoot is the pastor.  I am asking the Adult Choir to accompany me.