Slideshow image

Dear Shiloh Family,

The Holy Spirit had been moving, and the service had gotten, in Southern vernacular, “out of banks.” The Lord led the pastor into opening the floor for an old fashion testimony time, and the people responded.

Many stood and shared how God had blessed them in various ways. Others shared their salvation experiences. Some used it as a time for prayer requests for lost loved ones and family members. As always, there were one or two who seemed to be competing and made it all about themselves. 

Then, one old gentleman rose slowly to his feet with handkerchief in hand. Obviously, his cup was full, and tears had already begun to seep from his eye sockets. He tried to speak, but all he could muster was the word “Pastor.” The address barely passed lips when God opened the faucets of his heart, and the tears flowed like rain. Each time the man would gain his composure, the river would again break over the dam. As one would imagine, emotion spread like a monsoon throughout the auditorium. Proverbially, there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. In fact, one attendee stood up, held one hand toward heaven and walked around the altar; he never said a word - just walked. 
 
Finally, after several attempts, the speechless, spirit-filled, bawling fellow spread out both hands, shook his head, gazed at the pastor, and managed to put together a sentence, “It’s better felt than telt.” It wasn’t proper grammar, but it was understood, and appropriate for the moment. 

Psalm 106:1-2: Praise ye the LORD. O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. 2 Who can utter the mighty acts of the LORD? who can shew forth all his praise? KJV

Likewise, I am in a similar situation. I just can’t find the appropriate words to express my love and gratitude for all you have done for Anita and me. The love offering was a wonderful surprise and very timely. It goes without saying how appreciated the gift cards were, especially the ones to eating establishments. Most importantly, thank you for the kind words of love and encouragement. As always, one of the highlights of special events in a Pastor’s life is getting to read the handmade sentiments from the children. So, rather than using my own limited vocabulary, I’ll share a few of my favorite kid-quotes - from your kids. I’ll try to list them exactly as they are on my cards - without names. 

 “Thankes for everthang. Thankes pastor.”
 “Thank you pastor for teaching about Jesus and God.”
 “Tank you for being a great Pastor. Thank you for preing for us, for all of us. We luv you.”
 “Thank you Pastor Derrell, David, David, David and David.”
 “Thanks for being the best pastor ever.”
 “I love you Poppy.”
 “Thank you Pastor Poppy.” (I don’t think that one was even from one of my Grandbabies).
 “Thank you for everything you do. It’s such a blessing to have a Grandfather that loves and praises God.” 
 “As said in luke 17:16. Thank you. Thank you for all you have done in my life.”
 “Thank you, Pastor Derrell for all you do and will do. We love you.”

Psalm 61:2:2 From the end of the earth I will cry to You, When my heart is overwhelmed; Lead me to the rock that is higher than I. NKJV

The previous verse alludes to a heart that is overcome with sorrow. However, I post this verse because my heart is overwhelmed with love. Shiloh, you are leading people to the rock through love for God and people. I’m so glad to be one of those people who are loved by you. Thank you for allowing me to pastor such an awesome body of believers. 

Eyes often spill the abundance of the heart. 

God bless you all,
Pastor Derrell