Pastor's Post 4/14/2023

Dear Shiloh Family,

     The sun was shining, the mercury was hovering in the upper 60’s, there was a slight breeze, and it was clear as a bell.  What a wonderful day for fishing with my Grandson.  I loaded the fishing gear, placed him in the booster seat, and we were on our way.  It was typical Granddad, Grandson dialogue and I sparked his interest by saying, “Boy, I hope we catch some fish today.”

     He confidently replied, “Sure we will catch fish Poppy, you’re a good fisherman.”  (What he doesn’t know won’t hurt him. Please, no one tell him differently.)

     “I think you’re right.  We’re gonna catch some big ones.” 

     Then out of the blue he said, “Poppy, there is a lot of stuff back here in your truck.” 

     “I know, I need to clean some of it out.”

     Without hesitation, he retorted, “Yep, Poppy, you really need to work on that.  It’s pretty bad.”

      I chuckled, no, laughed out loud, which prompted him to list everything he saw, and a few things he couldn’t see.  Ironically, the unseen items were hidden away in the truck.  It was a great moment.

     In reflection, the little guy was not malicious, condescending, nor judgmental.  He was simply stating a fact from his heart based on what he saw.  And in retrospect, I didn’t get mad, hurt, nor offended.  I didn’t turn the truck around and cancel the fishing trip.  I took it for what it was worth…truth.  He was correct in his assessment of the situation, he presented it with the right attitude, and made me cognizant of the need to tidy up my ride. And I will…eventually. 

     Consequently, the scenario challenged me to ask myself why I get upset or offended when a caring brother, sister, family member, in the right spirit, holds me accountable or directs my attention to what appears to be clutter in my life, especially things that could potentially be harmful to others or me. 

     We are called to hold one another accountable and humble ourselves before the Lord.  It is important for our fellowship, personal sanctification, and the testimony of the church.

James 5:16-17
16 Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much. NKJV

1 Peter 5:5
5 Likewise you younger people, submit yourselves to your elders. Yes, all of you be submissive to one another, and be clothed with humility, for “God resists the proud, But gives grace to the humble."  NKJV

Matthew 18:15-16
15 "Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.  NKJV

    Speaking of loving one another, I was so proud of how you, the members of Shiloh Baptist Church, ministered to the community on Easter Sunday.  The Sunrise service, Breakfast, Outdoor worship, Easter Egg hunt, and all in between was incredible to behold.  Thanks to all who participated in any way.     

True love from the heart usually manifests itself in love out loud.        

God bless you all,

Pastor Derrell