"The Heat"

The recent press conference of the Miami Heat head coach was interesting. Coach referenced some of his millionaires, I mean players, crying after their loss to the Bulls yesterday. What were they crying about? Losing a game? Feeling like they may not win a championship? I will give them this much, they apparently care about the game they play. I do not know the spiritual climate of their locker room. Maybe they care so much about each other that they are mourning together.

In my opinion it appears like a classic example of idolatry. They are crying over the god (winning) they have put before God himself. God's Word is pretty simple, "we shall have no other gods before Him." May we examine our hearts when crying over something that will rust and destroy and cry for what matters. Cease focusing on ourselves and channel our energy toward eternal things.

Matt 6:19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.

I had the blessing to be a part of two powerful moments recently. Last fall in our final Chapel, three college football players stood and prayed to receive Jesus as their Savior and Lord. When everyone seemingly left the room, one Coach remained. Head down, his head in his hands, tears streaming down his face.

"Coach you ok?" I asked. He somehow got the words out that he was so happy that his prayers had been answered for the player he had poured his life into and prayed for. Coach was weeping over one sheep who was saved from "The Heat", the pit of hell. Something worth crying for.

Last week I had the opportunity to be with one of my athletes as he prayed to receive Jesus into his heart. I wept as I told him what the blood of Jesus really meant and what price was paid for his disobedience. I was eternally grateful to weep with a player over the precious blood of Jesus.

There was also the memory of crying with DSU players after their 2007 MEAC Championship. We cried for joy over an accomplishment but we also cried over the eternal impact Jesus had on a football team. Players who took repentance seriously and double figure players gave their hearts to Jesus that year. I remember hugging Coach Al Lavan after the game and giving glory to God for what Jesus had done through that season and Coach Lavan's leadership.

Coach are you saying we should not cry over winning and losing? Not saying that, just make sure the trophy is not the most important part of the journey of sport.

Are we focused on trophies or what really matters?
Are we crying over eternal victories?
Are we praying for the lost with such great passion that when God saves one all we can do is weep?
What are the eternal goals for your team?

Make it a great day!
Coach C