Pastor's Post 9/21/2023

Dear Shiloh Family,

     It was around 5:30 Saturday evening, we were celebrating the birthday of an awesome young lady, and I was building the most perfect taco salad of all time.  I noticed several people staring at me with raised eyebrows.  I thought it was because of the time and effort I was putting into my cuisine, or maybe it was the size of my taco mountain.  Then the reality of the situation hit me.  To which I replied, “I started my fast at 4:00 Friday evening.”

     I wasn’t very popular with folks who had to wait until 6:00 to eat, but it was refreshing to observe the sincerity and passion many of you applied to the church wide fast.  Thank you so much for participating and believing God’s word.

     I heard some from other churches relate how the Holy Spirit moved in their church Sunday morning and how they thought the fast had something to do with the outpouring.  I also heard people share how they felt more in tune with God and experienced an unusual harmony.  

     Jeremy’s bar-b-que was better than ever, the ladies served with even more grace than usual (they always do), the praise team was on fire, and the sound was perfect.  

     In regard to the Man Church event, we had over 150 men in attendance and at least 3 prayed the prayer to follow Jesus and were saved.  Praise the Lord!  

     When God’s people step out of the box, out of their comfort zone, into sacrifice, and into obedience, God the Father will pour out spiritual blessings.  

Acts 5:32:32 And we are His witnesses to these things, and so also is the Holy Spirit whom God has given to those who obey Him." NKJV

     Following the fast, in addition to the Men’s event, we baptized Sunday, had men’s Bible study Monday, Women’s Bible study Tuesday, and normal Wednesday night activities.  AWANA had the highest number in attendance of the year.  Friday night, the youth will feed and minister to Ridgeland High School with 5th Quarter ministries.  Sunday, we will baptize several Gordon Lee players, and feed most of the team after the service.  And we plan to baptize again next Sunday.  All this didn’t happen solely because of the fast, but I am convinced it is because you are dedicated, devoted, and determined to the worship, word, and work of the Master.   

2 Corinthians 7:15-16:15 And his affections are greater for you as he remembers the obedience of you all, how with fear and trembling you received him. 16 Therefore I rejoice that I have confidence in you in everything.  NKJV

    Don’t forget, we will be combining our services this Sunday.  We will have Sunday School at 9:45 and then one worship service at 11:00.  This will allow everyone to be a part of such an unusual baptismal service.  There will be 50 or more players and coaches in attendance.  There may possibly be several family members as well.  Please, join us and make our guests feel welcome.  Greet them in the parking lot, help them find the main auditorium, and usher them to their seats. 

      God has blessed us with a unique opportunity for ministry.  However, it comes with great responsibility.  How we handle it may determine how he trusts us with future blessings. 

Blessings are often multiplied when received with grateful service.

     From our hearts:  We are saddened by the loss of a wonderful friend and fellow member.  Please, pray for the family of Michael Lambert.  Visitation will be Thursday 4-6 PM, and Friday 6-8 PM at Wilson Ft. Oglethorpe. Funeral services will be held in the chapel at 11 AM on Saturday.  

God bless you all,

Pastor Derrell