Kentucky Chaplain David Chaltas

He was always a stubborn child and determined to do things his way. I always loved to watch him. I can recall one event that always brings a smile to my face. He was seven years old and we had gone for a walk up to the waterfall. Now the falls are about nine feet high and plummets off of the cliffs that are surrounded by mountain laurels. Below the falls are a series of rocks and boulders that have created a natural dam of sorts. Well, my son decided that he was going to make a ‘lake’ out of the water and began gathering rocks and carrying them to the area that had the boulders in them. I sat down under a holly bush and watched my little beaver work his magic. He became absorbed with his project and soon forgot that I was only a few yards away by the falls.

He labored for about 30 minutes and I was quite impressed with his determination. The project started to pay off, as the water slowly began staying in his little pond. He eyed a log that, in his mind’s eye, would be perfect to lie across the rocks and act as a barrier. He went to the log and with all the strength that he could muster, he attempted to lift it. But try as he might, he could not budge it. With mounting frustration and determination, he started kicking the log. He began crying and I went over to him and asked what was the matter. He said, “Daddy I don’t have the strength to move this log to make my dam higher.” I looked into those brown eyes and said, “Son, you do have the strength, you simply aren’t using it.” He looked at me and said, “I don’t understand. I have tried to push, pull and shove it but it won’t move!” It was at that moment that a father’s insight came into play. “Son, YOU are stronger than you think. You are not using all your strength because you haven’t asked me to help. Together we can move that log.”

Have you ever had an obstacle in your life that try as you might, you just can’t overcome? Maybe it is because you aren’t using all your strength. You are stronger than you think. God has promised you that if you ask, you shall receive, that if you knock, the door will be open unto you and if you seek, you will find. He is the God of His word. He will never fail you. The next time a ‘log’ gets in your way, simply seek out your Heavenly Father for help and He will come to you. What father would not lay down his life for his son? He takes care of the birds in the meadows, so surely He will take care of your needs. The faith of a mustard seed can move mountains. The love of God offers you a father full of salvation, comfort in the storm, and His grace will sustain you. Won’t you call to Him now? He has a 24-hour hot line. I remain your obedient servant, The Old General