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Dear Shiloh Family,

They aren’t related to me, they don’t go to our church, and I’m not even their coach. Still, they ask me the same question every week,
“Mr. O’Neal, are you coming to our game tonight?”

There are two little ladies, 2nd graders, who play on the same softball team as my granddaughter. I push into their class each day as a Paraprofessional to assist with daily schoolwork. It could be in the middle of a math problem, writing assignment, or spelling test, but I know it’s coming. Not one of them has ever asked me if I saw their big hit, if I liked their superstar catch, or even if I knew the score of the game. The future stars only ask if I’m going to attend. They are also certain to inform me that they saw me there. Occasionally, I even get a hug after the contest. The girls just need me to know that my presence in their world is important to them. I am also likely to receive a reprimand when I don’t show up. It really doesn’t matter to them that Josie (my Granddaughter) is my main focus. I am there!

In 1 Samual, we are told of a young champion who defeated a great giant. Most of you know the story of David and Goliath. For forty days, soldiers stood helplessly as Goliath taunted God’s people. It appears they were simply waiting on God’s man to show up, but they were there. He did, and a new hero was established. Several of those loyal men began to follow and support the little shepherd. The Bible often refers to them as David’s “mighty men.”

Later, when King Saul sought to kill David, the faithful men were by his side, in the cave of Abduluh, they were there, when the King’s family turned against him and his own son led an army against him, it was the mighty men who prevailed. We don’t know most of their names, nor do we have records of great accomplishments or accolades. We only know that they were there. Oh, and it was important enough to God that He recorded their faithfulness in His Holy word.

1 Samuel 16:6
6 And he cast stones at David, and at all the servants of king David: and all the people and all the mighty men were on his right hand and on his left.

My wise Dad often said, “Son, it doesn’t cost anything to be faithful.” He also taught us that God honors faithfulness. We encourage others by simply being in our place. Folks notice when a face is missing from the choir. An empty pew always prompts questions. Small groups, Sunday School, and Bible studies are more effective with full rooms. One doesn’t have to be the leader or head of a ministry to be effective for the Lord. However, when you are not in your place, the Pastor, teacher, leader, etc., can be discouraged by lack of attendance because it gives the feeling of apathy and that folks don’t care. More importantly, God knows when and why I am not supporting His work. He knows my heart and understands when I can’t, but he also is grieved when I just don’t.

Shiloh, you are one of the most faithful bodies of believers I have ever been associated with. I am so encouraged by your faithfulness to our Lord and His ministry. Thank you for all you do! You may think you are unimportant and useless, but you are valuable and necessary. Remember, when it seems as though you are doing nothing, “YOU ARE THERE!

Sunday, we will be dedicating babies in both services. Please, come support the families as they take such an important step of dedication and faith with their children.

The crowd can't win the game, But it can certainly influence the participants

God bless you all,
Pastor Derrell