All of Us
Over 240 years ago, our nation was engaged in a struggle with Great Britain in what we call The Revolutionary War. One of the most difficult periods of that conflict was the winter of 1777-1778 at Valley Forge, where the Americans made camp 18 miles NW of Philadelphia.
During those winter months, food, clothing, and other essentials became scarce, and George Washington’s Army suffered. The first recorded death at Valley Forge was a Continental soldier from Connecticut’s 7th Regiment. On December 25, the soldier was found dead in his tent, of what appeared to be a combination of malnutrition and exposure.
The soldier’s name was simply listed as Jethro. He was one of several hundred free black men that enlisted for the cause of American Liberty. That only reminds me that our heritage of Americans Patriots came from all walks of life. They fought not to form a racial group or divide, but to plant a free Republic.
Before the Spring arrived, over 2000 soldiers would die at Valley Forge. That number of deaths was more than any battle or campaign of battles in the whole Revolutionary War. (Drury, Bob & Clavin, Tom. Valley Forge. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2018 p.129, 329).
Lifting Men’s Spirits
In the midst of all the suffering of Valley Forge, an incident occurred that sparked life into the camp. General Washington would send out small patrols to harass and keep his eye on the British Army living in Philadelphia. One of his choice captains was Henry “Light Horse Harry” Lee.
On January 19, 1778, Lee and seven mounted soldiers were bunked in a contact’s house. Early in the morning, the Americans were awakened by Redcoats trying to break down the door of the farmhouse. The despised Colonel Banastre Tarleton led a British patrol of over 100 mounted dragoons, to capture the American officer.
Captain Lee positioned his men in the windows so expertly, that their musket fire soon drove the enemy back. Then Colonel Tarleton threatened to burn the Americans out. His threat was met by hoots and jeers from the Americans, who reminded the colonel that the farmhouse was made of stone.
Seeing his horses about to be stolen, Captain Lee summoned his men for a charge at the soldiers headed towards the stables. With their guns blazing the Americans came out the door, while the British turned and fled back in the direction of Philadelphia. The little skirmish was a big moral boost to the struggling Americans. As seen in letters and responses, from George Washington to the common soldier, Lee’s bravery against a superior force, brought great joy in the camp. (Drury, Bob & Clavin, Tom. Valley Forge. New York: Simon & Schuster, 2018 p.179-181).
Christians are now hunkered down in a time of Covid. As we are surrounded by dire situations, take the initiative. Tell someone about Jesus, see someone saved, and share it with others. We will all rejoice!
And what about Captain Henry Lee? His bravery and brilliance would shine forth again in a son named Robert E. Lee.
Classes Resume on January 19, 2022
Second semester classes begin on Wednesday, January 19, 2022. There is still time for those interested in taking classes to sign up for the Spring term. A full listing of both day and evening classes, along with a special student registration form is available on our website (www.hbcindiana.com), or by contacting the office.
We look forward to a fine schedule of chapel preachers and other special events planned for this year. The speaker for our first chapel on January 19th at 11:30 a.m. is Pastor Elmer Cox from Connersville, IN. You are cordially invited to attend.
Heritage Baptist Bible Fellowship - Winter Meeting
On January 2 - 4, Faith Baptist Church in Webster, Florida hosted the 6th annual winter HBBF meeting. Pastor Emory King and his people made every one of the 21 preachers feel welcome, and the warmer temperatures were a blessing. Thank you.
The preaching, fellowship, and food for the whole conference were excellent.
The next meeting of the Heritage Baptist Bible Fellowship will take place at Heritage Baptist College, during Graduation Week (May 3 – May 5, 2022).
Prayer and Preaching
Over the years, we have noticed that a number of our local pastors and friends love to occasionally visit chapel and stay for lunch.
So, for the second semester, we are scheduling in each month a special day and a special speaker - calling it Prayer and Preaching. (Feb. 23, March 23, & April 20)
We will meet at 11:00 a.m. to share prayer requests and hear a message, followed by a meal. What a wonderful way to be recharged during lunchtime.
Please mark February 23, 2022 on your calendar. Brother Cody Eaton, pastor of Fairbanks Baptist Church in western Indiana is the scheduled preacher for that morning.
Supporting your Bible College
Training is vital. A soldier may have the best weapon, but without instruction, that weapon is useless and even harmful. An air force recruit may view a multi-million-dollar jet, but without months of training, costing thousands of dollars, that aircraft becomes not a protection, but a liability to the pilot and everyone on the ground.
Christians have the most powerful of all weapons – The Word of God. The training in the understanding and application of God’s Word is vitally important as we instruct the next generation of Christian workers. Just as you can learn to shoot a gun without going to boot camp, one can learn the Bible without a formal education…but it still takes a disciplined learning. Such a venue is enhanced at the Bible college.
God has allowed Heritage Baptist College to assemble a fine group of qualified instructors to teach God’s truths. Your support greatly helps in the forwarding of Godly learning.
Have a Blessed New Year!