Even if you aren’t a basketball fan, you have likely heard about the numerous comeback wins in this year’s NBA playoffs by the Dallas Mavericks. Their star player Dirk Nowitzki has led the charge from behind game after game. It seems unbelievable that he has been able to rally the Mavs so many times with his own brilliant play and determination to win a championship.What can we learn from Dirk as Christ-followers?
Never give up! Encountering difficulties and obstacles doesn’t mean the end of a dream. When we obey God’s will as given in his word and we follow the vision of spiritual influence for his kingdom, we cannot quit believing that God can move in the toughest situations to achieve something for his kingdom. Dirk’s end-of-the-game play has ignited his team. His greatest power is not in his considerable basketball skills but in his influential leadership. He believes; therefore, they believe. He acts in accordance with his faith in the team; they follow suit. We, too, can be that kind of influence, but it takes more than words—we must act upon what we say we believe. Words ring hollow if we don’t follow them up with action. (This reminds me of some of the words coming out of the Heat players mouths—just an aside for Mavs fans.)
There is no guarantee that the Mavs will win one more game over the Heat, but they are true winners, showing great heart and true faith in each other. We, too, may never see the win, the positive results of our attempts to minister and love others for God’s kingdom. If not, perhaps in God’s reckoning the win comes in the form of growth in character and increased influence over those who watch us keep on keeping on.
Who has led you to keep on keeping on?
Go Mavs!
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Kay - Thank you for sharing this spiritual insight on the NBA playoffs. With the Mavs winning the Championship, I'm reminded of how they have competed for a perishable crown - but as Christ-followers, we compete for a crown that will last forever!
ReplyDeleteTo answer your question, the endurance of several family members & friends have influenced me, but in particular 1) my mom - as she gracefully handles the challenges of an aging body & mind, and 2) you - as you exemplify (in personal interactions, Bible study materials, blog posts, etc) determination & focus to keep Christ first in your life. The trust both of you exhibit in our Lord through all of life's many trials encourages me to keep on keeping on!
Grateful for your friendship, insights, challenges, & vulnerability! Evelyn B.
Thank you, Evelyn, for that reminder of the unfading crown that we work toward:)
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