Friday, January 29, 2016

SOCCER AND THE GREAT COMMISSION

Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and Son and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. Matthew 28:19-20a (NIV)

Pastor Bruce works part time as soccer coach at the local high school in a small Pennsylvania town. He often gathers the team to pray before and after games and practice sessions.

Team members obviously hold their coach in high regard because wherever they see him off the field, they greet him exuberantly. Many have graduated, gone on to college or found their occupation in the adult world. Without fail they stop to talk to their high school coach, tell him about their lives, and sometimes ask  for prayer.

Coach Bruce was pleasantly moved when one young man ran across a parking lot to chat with him. Tracy had been on the soccer team for just a few days before circumstances forced him to resign. He was anxious to explain to the coach how those days had changed his future by teaching him the sport of soccer and pointing him to Jesus.

All Christians are called by the "Great Commission," to witness and bring others to the Lord. As a Coach and a pastor, Bruce's days take him from the pulpit to "every day" life, witnessing along the way. I am reminded that finding people to bring to God is not difficult. It is not limited to the pulpit or the confines a church building, but open to those we meet wherever we are.

Prayer: Lord help me to remember that the call of "The Great Commission" includes me. I want to answer the whispers of Your Holy Spirit to minister and witness to others wherever I am.                    

 (C) Christy Struben

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