Unexpected Gracious Sportsmanship

Have you thought creatively about who a visiting sports team could play against in your city?

A team of sportspeople who were believers organized to visit the world's best team in their country. The visitors were invited to hold sports clinics and play against the host country's national team, including several world-champion players.

The local sport movement arranged with a national civic organization for the visit to benefit one of the local children's charities. Over 100,000 spectators purchased tickets, with proceeds going to the charity.

Everyone received booklets with the faith story of why the visiting team was willing to visit and help.

The world champion host players were far superior to the visiting team but, surprisingly, did not embarrass the visitors in front of the local crowd. When asked why, they responded, “We sportsmen have never done anything to help our own children's charities, and this team came to serve our people; it would be wrong to embarrass those who are helping our youth.”

An unexpected positive response like this cannot be planned. When we walk by faith, there are many unanticipated positive outcomes. The key is to go and leave the results to the Lord.

Scripture to ponder:

Colossians 3:12

Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.

Key Lesson: Make plans and try new things in faith. Leave the results to the Lord. He can do amazing and unexpected things through all people.