We Did It!

This past weekend, our 13-year-old granddaughters came to visit. On Monday, we took them (and their dad) to the park to play basketball. Annika was a whizz at it. Maren enjoyed doing her best. Their dad was getting the exercise. Todd and I were cheering them on from the sidelines. There was a lot of support for each other, mixed in with lots of laughter. I decided to give it a try! Now, remember, I’m no spring chicken and had not played basketball for decades. I never was good at it either—I have difficulties just throwing a ball. Suddenly, I’m out there throwing a ball that consistently missed the hoop by yards. But those girls kept encouraging me. One stood behind me to make sure I didn’t fall! Then I made a score, and the cheers arose! They were so happy, and I was very happy! I was struck by the joy we had.

I wonder if that is not the point to be made. We get up and try something new or strange, give it our best effort, and encourage those who are alongside us. Then we cheer with joy when something good happens or when someone succeeds. I think that is the ministry to which God calls all of us. It is called living in God’s Kingdom.

Even if we fail (just like the possibility that I wouldn’t make a score when shooting the basketball up into the air was pretty high), those around us are thankful that we put ourselves out there to affect a change or complete a goal.

Jesus said, “Do unto others as you would have them do to you.” (Matthew 7:12) Add to that the attitude of rejoicing when one person is positively affected by love, success, acceptance, or hope. Together we can say, “We did it! Praise God!”  It is what God intends for his world, yesterday, today, and always.

Prayer: God, I pray for courage or strength to bring joy, hope, and assistance to your children wherever I can. Help me to share joy with them. Amen.