UNPACK this…For College Basketball FansSample

The Nameless Jersey

I love watching the NCAA Tournament, but one of my biggest frustrations is teams not displaying their players’ names on the back of the jerseys. Although I buy into the “team” mentality being conveyed, I’m not a fan of these “nameless” jerseys because players miss out on the opportunity to honor their own name. A guy can still be a “team” player with his last name on the back of the jersey.
 
You may disagree with me, and love the tradition of this type of jersey when you see a team like Indiana wearing them, but either way we can probably agree that what a name represents truly matters. 

Millions of people are watching March Madness and learning the names of players based on their skill, stories of character off the floor, and their personality during interviews. Brought up by name years from now, how will these players be remembered? Will their name trigger positive memories when thinking about NCAA Tournament history?

I'm guessing you and I no longer wear a jersey with our name on it, but we do represent our name each day by how we live. The Bible says, “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches…” and another translation puts it this way: “A sterling reputation is better than striking it rich...”

Our name and reputation matter. How we treat people and the character we exhibit make a big difference. When people hear our name, don't we want to be described as someone having integrity and a heart for Jesus instead of someone having a questionable reputation?

We may be “jerseyless,” but each day our name represents ourselves and our family. Also, if we claim to love Jesus, our name represents Him too. Today, let's contribute to having a name worthy of being remembered. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that!
 
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for welcoming me into your family. Please help me make Your name great, and give me strength to keep a good reputation while pursuing integrity. Please continue to grow my character so that people can see You shine through me. Forgive me for the times I stain my name and represent You poorly. Thank You for Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.