Howard Cosell's autobiography written back in the 70's was called "I Never Played the Game." In it he gives a very cutting, and very sarcastic look into the life and styles of professional athletes. Interesting, not only because he is interesting, but because like he said, "I never played the game." But he had been involved with the games, and from his legal background, and also his broadcasting venue, was let into places the average person would be excluded from. Yes, it is true he may never have played the game, but he still was involved with it, just not as a competitor. Which reminds me that there are several levels to making a team a winner, it is in the details the losers are separated from them.
Watching the Simon and Simon race team at the Barstow Firecracker 250 on the 4th of July reminded me of this. The truck was overheating, and despite its huge radiator, electric fan, and large coolant lines, it was in the red, and close to self destructing. While the other were looking at the obvious, Don Tebbe, the crew chief, jumped on top of the truck, and released a safety valve on the radiator. In doing so the cooling system burped itself, relieving itself of an air pocket. He topped the coolant off, the temp dropped to normal, ad they were back on the course. Don had put that valve in just for occasions like this, and although he may never have driven the truck in a race, the team would have DNFed without this trick. Reinforcing the value of a crew chief, his knowledge and experience, but also how it takes a team to win. And how important even the small things are.
The scripture tells us we all have a gift, or talent that God has given us. Something that He wants us to do, and it is special. I watched in the past as pastors who try to control the church, eventually go down in flames, as they do not give their flock over to the Holy Spirit, it is as if they are the only ones, at least in their own prideful heart, that God has allowed to serve. And I recently watched as a church who had supported a ministry for years, pulled out support. On the surface, these things happen, and the economy is usually mentioned. But in the background is the real reason, and we see how God protects those that are led by Him. Obedience is better than sacrifice, and a little leaven goes through the whole batch. The ladies used to make certain knitted and crochet items for the seniors in nursing homes. They would gather and enjoy a time of fellowship, sharing God, and serving Him. Until one day some Mormon ladies came, and were invited in. Rules had been set about proselytizing, but the spirit was quenched. Soon more Mormon women were admitted and outnumber the Christians. And they had an idea to sell the goods, rather than donate them, and suddenly those who gave of themselves were turned into piece workers, rather than peace workers. And those who left went on to serve God, while the leaven continued to go through the church. Not obeying God will have its consequences. And when the church attendance dwindled, so did the finances, and the giving had to be cut off to others. Just one sin caused the others to suffer. Remember that next time money comes up in regards to ministry, if God has given you a vision, He will supply all your needs according to HIS RICHES and glory. Did you ever see Jesus on a book tour or a fund raiser? Charging for refills? Or asking for travel money? And He not only played the game-He is the game!
Never underestimate what God gives you. Just like Mordecai Ham, the man who led Billy Graham to the Lord, he never knew the fruit that his one message of salvation would bear, and all the ones saved because of Billy's decision to accept Christ. Just like Don's knowledge of burping the cooling system, he allowed the race to go on, and they eventually won. We don't run to finish, but to win. And the battle is not against other Christians, or even men,our adversary is the devil, who seeks to destroy us. Read 2 John-do not even let those false teachers in your house-or wish them God bless you. Run the race to win, led by Jesus.
We do not know what today brings, but we do know who goes with us. Follow Him and watch as we are more than overcomers, we are victors! We get to compete with the family of Christ for souls, just by loving. We are only called to be witnesses, so let your light shine. A lesson my friend Dave reminded me of this morning. Stay the path, for all things work to our good, not just good things. Beware of those who let anything get between you and God. And rejoice as you get to be a part of the winning team. For like Howard, we may never get to play the game, but we still compete. And if you never endured two a day drills, be glad. Jesus saves-we are just told to love. For this is the will of God!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com
Galatians 5:7-9
English Standard Version (ESV)
7 You were running well. Who hindered you from obeying the truth? 8 This persuasion is not from him who calls you. 9 A little leaven leavens the whole lump.