Pastor's Post 3/8/2023

Dear Shiloh Family,

     The side-by-side easily navigated the ruts and rocks up the old ridge road as Dad and I rode a familiar path…past the place where a tree fell on Dad’s leg, past our favorite hunting spots, past pristine resting places that have provided and still provide awesome sunsets, and finally, past a huge rock on which Terry and I played king of the hill and where Dad prayed for us (and many of you)…the “Ebenezer Rock.”

Joshua 4:6-7

6 that this may be a sign among you when your children ask in time to come, saying, 'What do these stones mean to you?' 7 Then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord; when it crossed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. And these stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever."  NKJV

     However, it wasn’t until last Sunday when my Grandson helped me lock up the church that I realized how the “past” had influenced and shaped our lives.  The little guy was so excited to turn off lights and make sure every door was closed and secure, just like my brother, sister, and I had been when we assisted Dad in the same task.  We literally strolled past our past.

     Each Sunday, as the children storm in my office to receive their sugar-free treat, I am reminded that my past is becoming their present.  It is very clear that for Terry, Monica, and me, our present service, devotion, and joy is founded on a past that was surrounded by the people of Shiloh and is fueled by a desire to share the love our parents instilled in us…a love for the God of all days, the God of past, present, and future.  The events at the farm and in fact, all other events outside the church, were mere memories, albeit good memories.  They were the dressed-up façade, the windows, doors, and siding that rested on the building blocks and structure of the church and the teachings of God’s word.  

     Shiloh, we have the opportunity to establish a firm foundation for our children and grandchildren.  The doors of Shiloh are open, and the lights are on almost day and night.  Praise the Lord!  Roll up your sleeves and help build the present that will become an effective and memorable past.

Psalm 127:1

127 Unless the Lord builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; Unless the Lord guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain. NKJV

The icing is enhanced by the cake in the middle.  

God bless you all,

Pastor Derrell