Blog post June 23, 2026

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Psalm 23:5

Lillian Thrasher was an American born missionary who founded the first orphanage in Egypt in the early 1900s,"Mama Lillian" as she was known, cared for over 10,000 orphans in her lifetime.

By the 1940s the orphanage was home to over 900 children. World War II was shifting in favor the allies in the region, but inflation made operational cost impossible to maintain. The children's clothes were in tatters, and and they were starving, eating only a half cup of lentils each day. Lillian pursued every normal avenue for help, but the entire country was suffering. One night at supper she announced that all schoolwork and chores would be suspended for 24 hours so everyone could pray for God's provision.

The next morning, Lillian received a telegram from the American ambassador to Egypt requesting to see her immediately. Once there, the ambassador was bursting with news. He explained that Greece had fallen into the Germans, and a Red Cross ship carrying relief supplies intended for Greece was ordered to return to harbor in Alexandria. The ship was at risk for attack, and they were ordered to dump their supplies and head out to see immediately.

On board was a young Scottish sailor, whose mother prayed for Lillian's orphans every day, and who had himself supported Lillian's work in the past. The sailor was adamant and unrelenting, finally, the captain agreed to unload their cargo rather than dump it into the sea.

The ambassador leaned in, "this is why I ask you to come here today. Miss Thrasher, do you have need for food and clothing at this time? We have 2600 dresses, 1900 sweaters, 1900 pairs of pants, 3800 blankets, 1100 towels, 700 kegs of powdered milk, 1200 sacks of rice"… and the list went on and on. Lillian burst into tears, God had heard her prayers and those of the orphans. In the middle of a war, God had prepared a banqueting table overflowing with His divine supply.

Heavenly father thank you for being an abundant provider. Even in the midst of war, and inside enemy territory, You knew the needs of Your children and delighted to fill their cups to overflowing. May we never doubt your ability to provide. May we always bring our needs before you trusting and believing. Thank you again for this blessed Psalm. In Jesus name. AMEN AMEN