Posting the Sears 917.xxxxxx number is always helpful.
(It might also be something like 502 or 536.xxxxxx)

Clean all battery cables on BOTH ends.

IF that fails, try jumping directly across both BIG posts on the starter solenoid. IF the starter cranks, it would indicate a bad solenoid'

Is the deck still possibly engaged?

Thanks Bill, It totally was the solenoid, it had melted the starter connection almost off..Thanks again so much

Even a blind squirrel.....