Ready:
“And coming home, he calls his friends and neighbors together, saying to them, ‘Rejoice with me, because I have found my lost sheep!’”— Lucas 15:6
Set:
Do you remember why you got into sports? The first sport I was introduced to was softball. When I was 8 or 9 years old I remember putting on my first softball glove and loving how it felt. I loved being with my friends at the ball diamond. I loved the sting of the ball when it hit my glove. I loved the feel of getting the ball to home plate before the runner.
What starts as a fun thing can often turn into something else. For me, once softball and the joy of playing became something my value was tied to, my motivation shifted. Suddenly, each out or missed ball meant more than it was meant to. My motivation for playing was now to prove I was worthy to be on the team. Striking out and missed outs slowly robbed me of the joy of the game.
When we forget why we started something our joy is lost. In Luke 15 the shepherd is celebrating because he found his lost sheep. He calls his friends and neighbors to rejoice – to be glad with him. The shepherd did not forget why he became a shepherd. He knew his job was to protect all 100 sheep, even one who was silly enough to wander off alone. Leaving the 99 to find the lost one is a striking picture of love. The Shepherd, God, is looking for the lost sheep (that’s us). He loves us that much. Do you know that truth? God loves you. No matter how far away you have strayed or why you strayed He is looking for you and is ready to welcome you into a redeemed relationship with Him.
Take time today to reflect on the state of your relationship with God. Are you lost or found? If you are not sure, talk to a pastor, youth group leader or go to type: asset-hyperlink id: 48sFm2BvUJsRZ6iKFvZ5jK to learn more.
Take time today to remember why you got into sports in the first place. Refresh your perspective and motivation for competing. I pray doing so results in finding the joy in your sport once again.
Go:
What is the first sport you ever played? Did you like it? Explain.
What joy do you find in your sport?
How would your life change if you competed and lived each day knowing God loved you?
Workout:
Overtime:
“Lord, I have forgotten the joy of sport. Remind me why it is I pour so much into competition. Return my joy and draw me back to You. Thank You for welcoming me back and for leaving the 99 for me. I want to always remember that You love me because how can I not have joy if I have that truth. I love You! In Jesus’ name, amen.”