Today’s scripture: Matthew 10:34-39 (ESV-text and audio) (KJV) (The Message) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Brenda Corbello):
While watching more basketball games than I can count in the last few weeks, I have seen many young people who seem to have an incredible level of resolve, especially with regard to developing the ability to play a particular game better then anyone else. I find it amazing that human beings can be so determined that it consumes nearly every thought.
Many of these athletes seem to make every choice in life in light of the impact it will have on their ability to play a game. This includes what they eat, how much they sleep, how much, and what kind of, exercise they get every day. They make choices about where to go to school, what to study, and even who they will associate with based upon the impact it will have on their game. This is commitment.
Imagine how different many of our lives would be if we put the same level of thought and effort into our spiritual condition as these athletes put into their physical condition. Even while reading this passage, I can imagine the same kind of speeches coming from many coaches throughout history. Can’t you just hear them now?
“Don’t think I’ve come to make life cozy.” Don’t you think Jesus was trying to make the same point? The best things in life are worth working hard for. When we decide to make a certain athletic endeavor foremost in our lives, we often find leaders who put considerable effort in making things very difficult for us in an attempt to strengthen us and our resolve to be better. They may even sound very much like what Jesus was saying, “Well meaning family members can be your worst enemies.” We have all seen movies depicting successful coaches telling the players things like, “If you don’t go all the way with me, through thick and thin, you don’t deserve me. If your first concern is to look after yourself, you’ll never…” well, you know the rest. I believe that Jesus was trying to motivate His followers in much the same way the coaches try to motivate their players — for very much the same reason. They want what is best for us.
It is a shame that we do not applaud individuals who put the same level of commitment into their spiritual condition as these athletes put into learning to play a game well. We should encourage each other to be as committed to our spiritual endeavors at least as much as these individuals are encouraged to be committed to their physical endeavors.
Thought for the day: God, help me to commit to You with as much abandon as these athletes commit to their sport. Give me the strength to stay focused on living my life in a manner that will only serve to make my relationship with You stronger.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the guidelines on the How to Pray page.