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Dear Shiloh Family,

Don’t you just love it when the Lord bountifully bestows a near perfect experience? Recently, all the grandbabies were at Poppy, and Dita’s house celebrating Brady’s 9th birthday. The weather forecast had predicted possible violent storms throughout the day, but even modern technology isn’t flawless. Other than an occasional cloud shadow and a slight breeze, the conditions were sunny-side-up for a pool party - even Memaw and Mamaw were present. What more could one ask?

In fact, the young’uns were so enamored with water games, it was difficult to entice them to the feeding trough. Pizza was certainly not the best draw, and homemade ice cream, though extremely appealing to the adults, couldn’t compare to blue water, floats, and sinkies.

The day approached eventide and the two Great Grandmas began planning their departure and doled out kisses and hugs. As they were departing, my daughters encouraged the children to give thanks for the presents and food. Luke made a sashay around the deck and his mom initiated the forced response maneuver.

“Luke, tell them bye.”
“Bye”, came the response.
“Tell them you love them.”
“Love you.”
Then came the classic moment. “Tell Mamaw thanks for the yummy chocolate cake.”
“Thanks for the yummy chocolate cake.”

In mid stride and with great disdain, with mouth wide and eyes narrowing, he loudly replied, “Hey! I didn’t get chocolate cake. Mom, where is my chocolate cake? I want some cake!”

It was hilarious! Mom then explained to him that it had been there all day, but he was too busy and preoccupied with swimming that he ignored the call to eat.

My thoughts wandered to the 23rd Psalm.

Psalm 23:5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. NKJV

He not just provides it; he prepares it just for us; right in the face of our persecutors. It’s there, but do we partake? In fact, verse two gives indication that he has to force us to rest in lush fields of blessings. However, we get so preoccupied with the glitter, fun-in-the-sun, distractions of life, his call to dine is either not heard, or as is more often the case, blatantly ignored.

“Hey! Lord, where is my chocolate cake? Where is my homemade ice cream? Why didn’t I get what everyone else received? His reply seems to be, “It was there all the time.”

Our Lord has all power to supply all things in all ways. He can fill our plates and satisfy our taste buds. 

Philippians 4:18-20: 18 Indeed I have all and abound. I am full, having received from Epaphroditus the things sent from you, a sweet-smelling aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well pleasing to God. 19 And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. NKJV

The key is that we hear his voice, heed his call, and honor his presence. 
John 21:12-13: Jesus said to them, "Come and eat." Yet none of the disciples dared ask Him, "Who are You?" — knowing that it was the Lord. 13 Jesus then came and took the bread and gave it to them, and likewise the fish. NKJV

I am also reminded that many of our blessings come through service…not our salvation, just our sanctification. 

It is difficult to receive blessings through clenched fists. 

God bless you all,
Pastor Derrell