In most parts of the world a game, which American’s label soccer, consumes the attention of many. In Brazil, where my family and I served as missionaries, this game, futebol was the national passion. It was more than just a game or a team… it was life itself. A famous Scottish player and manager, Bill Shankly, mirrored this sentiment when he stated, “Some people think football is a matter of life and death. I assure you, it's much more serious than that.” Do you have a corresponding passion for sports? Does something else consume you in a similar way?
As a Christian,
Christ followers ought to be so enthusiastically dedicated. In Matthew, Jesus communicates to His
audience this sentiment saying, “… seek first the kingdom of God and his
righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” It is obvious from this statement that Jesus
understood that if one wants something, then he or she ought to seek that to which
it is connected. For example, if one
wants to work in a certain profession then this person must pursue the
prerequisite training for said profession.
As it pertains to life, if one wants to truly live, he or she must first
seek that which brings true life… the Lord.
Jesus recognized that if one wants to truly live then one’s desire for
the Lord must be paramount. Not one
thing must be preferred over God… not one’s wants or needs. Ones desire for riches or pleasure must take
backseat and even ones basic necessities must play second fiddle to Christ and
His work. For the righteousness of
Christ, is that which is the only true necessity, is what must be sought first
then all else that comes will be a surplus.
The church at which I am Associate Pastor soon will be welcoming a new pastor, it is my desire for this man to encounter a man who is committed to God
and His plan! In accordance, I will wholeheartedly and unconditionally support God-Called Man at Millen Baptist as he is one whose heart’s
prevailing passion is to see God’s glory displayed and His mission accomplished!