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Dear Shiloh Family,

The ground shook with earthquake proportions as the company of tanks roared past. Commanders of each war machine barked out signals as they turned into a perfect synchronized formation. It appeared as if the lone visible soldier operated the armored vehicle of destruction. However, the truth was revealed as three other crew members; the gunner, the loader, and the driver, emerged from the top hatch. Obviously, there was much more going on under the surface than the eye could see.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier is one of the largest naval ships on the seas. A flyover might reveal the Admiral, the helmsman, and a few deck hands. One could observe mechanics attending various types of jets, planes, or guns. But, if the hull were pealed open, the entrails of the floating city would produce over 5600 sailors whose jobs range from cooks to clergy.

At any given time, a Virginia-class nuclear submarine can house from 130-150 seamen. Those faithful sailors could serve as long as three years in one term…many of whom are never seen by anyone other than their crew members. It is incredible that our dedicated, covert warriors are unknown, unseen, and unheard; yet they sleep next to a nuclear reactor that has enough power to take out an entire country.

Each Sunday, you hear the Pastors of Shiloh bellow out sermons and Biblical truths. You worship with one of the best praise bands around. However, I need you to know that our power comes from sources that are often unseen. It is the faithful servants in the balcony AV booth, the nursery, the Sunday School and small group ministries, central office and other ministries that turn the wheels of movement. And I am so thankful for the prayer warriors who keep us connected to the literal power of Heaven. I am eternally grateful for the under the surface, behind the curtain, demand no glory followers of Jesus.

Matthew 6:2-4

3 But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly. NKJV

Many of you have been working for days, and in some cases, weeks to insure a successful VBS. Anita and I would like to thank you for your unselfish dedication to the church and especially to our Lord. Even though most folks will never see and may never know your tireless efforts…we do. Most importantly, God does. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

I would be a fool (which is already debatable) if I didn’t take this opportunity to pin a rose on our VBS director, my wife and sweetheart, Anita. She has been praying and preparing for this event for months. I often jest about her intensity during this time of year, but I am so proud of her devotion to provide an exciting, Christ-centered experience for the children of our community. Anita, thank you, and I love you.

1 Peter 3:4-5: 4 rather let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the incorruptible beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is very precious in the sight of God. NKJV

Please, be in constant prayer this week for peace, harmony, and continuity between all workers and leaders. Also, pray that tender hearts would be turned to Jesus.

When God saw the Heavens and the Earth before He created them, you were in His vision. He sees you now!

God bless you all,
Pastor Derrell