This Chapter Series is from the Book – “Take Me Out With The Crowd”
Welcome to the Continuation of The Game Changer!
Today, we continue our journey, exploring how your passion for sports intersects with your faith. In this chapter, we will delve deeper into how your love for sports can both inspire and challenge your spiritual life.
This chapter isn’t about criticizing sports fandom but finding a meaningful balance between your enthusiasm for sports and your spiritual commitments. We’ll examine how sports can be a source of joy and connection and discover ways to channel that passion to enhance your faith rather than overshadow it.
As we navigate this exploration together, we will uncover fresh insights into how sports can coexist with and even enrich your spiritual life. Our goal is to approach this with grace and wisdom, helping you find a harmonious balance that honors both your love for the game and your spiritual path.
If you haven’t read Part 1 – 4 yet, I encourage you to check it out here, here (For Part Two), here (Part Three) and here, (for Part Four) before proceeding. We are exploring a profound and transformative topic, and starting from the beginning will help you fully engage with what’s to come.
I believe this message is inspired by the divine, and my hope is that it will bring inspiration and change into your life. Let’s continue discovering how sports can be a Game Changer in your spiritual journey. Welcome to the next step of our enlightening adventure!
The Game Changer Part Five
Sports have always played a significant role in my life, and I would like to take this opportunity to share a bit about my sports allegiance and the teams I support. While I wouldn’t classify myself as an avid or die-hard sports fan, I do enjoy watching and following various sports from time to time.
Faith Over Fanatic.
Growing up, I never excelled in sports. Despite my lack of talent, I found great joy in playing games with the neighborhood kids. Softball, fast-pitch, and wall-ball were among our favorites during the warmer months, while football dominated our playtime during fall and winter.
Often Times I played Wall-ball by myself.
Although I yearned to be part of a competitive league, my skills (or lack thereof) often relegated me to the bleachers rather than the playing field. It seemed that no matter how hard I tried, I couldn’t quite measure up to the other kids.
Alone in the Bleachers.
However, everything changed when the Youth Service Project (YSP) gave me an opportunity. Needless to say, I grabbed it with both hands and poured my heart and soul into the endeavor. It was my chance to prove myself, to show that I was capable of more than just watching from the sidelines.
Despite my lack of skill, the feeling of being accepted and part of a team was exhilarating. However, as time went on, I came to the realization that becoming a successful sports figure was not in the cards for me. It wasn’t a goal I could achieve or a path I could pursue. Consequently, I found comfort in watching sports on television, reminiscing about the joy I once found in participating. Yet, a sense of disappointment lingered, knowing that what I once loved to do couldn’t be transformed into a tangible accomplishment.
Chasing the Dream: Finding Purpose Beyond the Field.
Hebrews 12:1-2 – New International Version
1 –Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 -fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Sports have been an integral part of my life, providing me with moments of joy, excitement, and inspiration. Supporting teams like the Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Cubs, and the Oregon Ducks has allowed me to connect with a community of passionate fans. Additionally, witnessing the brilliance of players like Brett Favre, Drew Brees, Jim McMahon, Ryne Sandberg, John Starks, Javier Lopez, Roberto Clemente and Marcus Mariota, has deepened my love for these teams and the sports they represent.
Psalm 118:24 – New Living Translation
This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it.
This verse highlights the importance of rejoicing and finding joy in every aspect of life, including the enjoyment and community we experience through sports. It can be a reminder to appreciate the moments of excitement and connection that sports provide, recognizing them as part of the day that God has made for us.
Coming Soon – Revised Edition Part Six
Willie Torres Jr.
10/08/2024