The world recently celebrated the World Cup-international soccer tournament. Something I know nothing about since I’m not a sports fan. About the only sports I watch clips of, once-in-a blue-moon, are Track and Cycling. I don’t dedicate hours to any sport; sorry!
However, the world has gone bananas over the World Cup with thousands having traveled across the globe for a chance at seeing the game and closeup opportunities to see/meet the great players of the sport.
Stories, both written and video-taped are circulating online on the impact Americans have had on many individuals and families from the UK and other parts of the world. For one thing, many foreigners arrived with preconceived ideas of who we are and what we’re like. To their amazement, their experiences have been completely contrary to what they expected. From outgoing, social people who sometimes offered to pay for their meals, to free advice, friendly conversations, and public greetings, these outsiders were welcomed as if they had previously been here, or were family or friends.
Many were in tears as they recounted the goodness they experienced in the presence of strangers. Blessings poured upon them through simple acts such as “How are you today?” And, “You will want to take this path instead of the steeper one;” or “Stay away from moose!” From state-to-state, and city-after-city, foreigners saw firsthand the freedom available to USA residents as well as the camaraderie shared among a common people whether they’re known or unknown to them. In essence, they experienced “Southern Hospitality” everywhere they went. Some, couldn’t get over how large some homes and apartments were! Others, couldn’t get enough of the varieties of American food available or the sizes of supermarkets! Hundreds left in tears-overwhelmed by how they were received!
Granted, these experiences may not happen all the time, but for a people who were warned about the unfriendliness of Americans, they were in for a shocker!
Now, you may not have traveled to the US to view the games or to meet new strangers. Maybe you’re from here! But, do you have preconceived ideas of God? Have you been told He’s unfriendly? That He’s stuck-up, stingy and unforgiving? Did you know He’s social and friendly? Did you know you’re welcome into His house and kingdom? Has your life experienced His goodness and the outpouring of His blessings? Did you know His arms are open wide ready to receive you? Have you experienced an outpouring of tears from His goodness, which leads to repentance (Romans 2:4)?
Following in His paths, His word will guide you over which paths to take and what to stay away from. He may not pay for your meals, but He did pay for your salvation. And maybe you’re awestruck by the sizes of homes, apartments, lofts or studios on earth, just wait till you get to heaven and lay eyes on the grandness and scale of the Holy City He’s prepared for you! Don’t think, for one moment that He’s going to be outdone by the inventions of mankind. You’ll never visit someplace in heaven where you’ll say, “Man, I should’ve stayed at_______! It’s 100 times better than this here heaven.” It’ll never happen!
So, as great as the World Cup may be, as God’s people, we’re going for a bigger prize! Check it out!
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him” (James 1:12)
If the World Cup brought hundreds of thousands together for a temporary event, how many do you think will be gathered to receive their imperishable crowns from God (1Corinthians 9:25) on that great day? An eternal crown along with everlasting rewards, will be grander than anything this world has ever seen!
At the end of the day, if you’re in tears over God’s touch on your life, I guarantee you, your life will never be the same once you win the match against your opponent, the devil, and you celebrate your victory in Christ!
Ready to sit at the largest feast ever?! If earthly portions are large, imagine heaven’s!! Not to mention dining with the Father, the Son, the Holy Ghost and hosts of angelic beings along with God’s family from all the ages! I think if we indulge, God will understand! For some, it’ll be the best and biggest meal ever! I’m looking forward to my Eternal Crown as well as fellowship with the KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS (Revelation 19:16)! God will wipe away all your tears (Revelation 21:4). You will have triumphed! You’ve scored!
God Bless!
Sam