It was a horrific week, but we won the 11 and 12 year old State Tournament for our district! Both the boys and the coaches worked hard for this win. Now, we move on to the World Series where we will represent the state of Tennessee.
This is a special time to play in the World Series. It’s Dixie Youth’s 50th anniversary. What’s more exciting is my husband played in the World Series in 1978 as an 11/12 year old—the same age of our son now—exactly 30 years ago! Pretty cool—huh?!
The state director of Dixie Youth presented our boys with their trophies and then gave a short victory speech to which he reminded and challenged the boys.
“You’re playing for me now, and you’re playing for the state of Tennessee. You’ll be wearing Tennessee colors, and I expect each of you to represent our state well through your attitude, actions, and choices.”
My mind drifted away from his speech as I thought about being a representative of Christ. Most of us wear our Christian badge for all to see. We wear them as slogans on our t-shirts, in the form of jewelry hung around our neck, and through Christian symbols stuck on the bumpers of our cars. Even though we “wear” these badges, how well do we represent what they stand for?
Are my actions and attitude always Christ-like while driving in traffic, at the store when the cash resister doesn’t give me the noted discount, or when my son is in a batting slump?
People are watching us. Just like the ball players, we have a reputation to honor and protect. It’s the Name of Christ. I want to do it well.
I believe God uses life lessons such as this one to enlighten me—to challenge me—to teach and inspire me. It’s not because I’m already doing it well. It’s because though my spirit is willing to represent Him, my flesh is lacking. So God in His great mercy comes along side of me, and as usual, uses everyday experiences to shape me into His image.
When you and I have godly character in the midst of life’s game…it’s a win every time!
Striving for victory!
Tracie Miles says
Im so glad you all won and that Parker got to feeling better – also it was awesome to hear about his home runs! Great blog post too!
B His Girl says
Winning is fun! I’m glad your adventure had a good ending. Your walk is certainly not boring. I think God is constantly giving you fresh bread to share with others. That is a sign of a true calling. Thank you for stopping by my new blog. Your visit made it seem less like a ghost town. : )
B His Girl
Starr says
Micca, Glad you won!! I have to remind myself all the time when I am driving that I DO have Christian bumper stickers on my van and People WILL notice that when I get an acute attack of road rage!!
I see God in you always as I read your posts. Thanks for sharing yourself and your life adventures with us.
Love and Blessings,
Starr