If you enjoy spectator team sports, you probably like to watch how the players move as if they are part of a planned design, even if the action sometimes gets a little wild. If you have been on sports teams, you know how important it is to move according to the rules of the team captain, following his or her playbook. To ignore the captain’s directions in order to gain individual acclaim would be selfish, demoralizing for your teammates, and unhelpful in winning the game.

Through baptism, we are part of Jesus’ team. Baptism is a public announcement that we are joining His team of faithful believers. Confirmation is a pubic announcement that we want to continue as part of Jesus’ team and not switch sides to another.

Jesus’ team is God’s answer to the dark forces of Satan. When we overcome the adverse events, insults, and challenges that life slings at us... we bear witness to the certainty that Jesus’ team is stronger than Satan’s. That patience wins over rage and violence. That love is always stronger than hate.

The Christian life is a life of hope. Baptized into new life on Jesus’ team, we bear witness to the fact that His playbook is the one we want to follow. We trust in Him to give us good directions. We do not know where the team Captain is leading us, but what we do know is that His playbook will give us strength, steadfastness, and courage for the game of life.

Jesus has room on His team for each of us; He has important work for us to do. On His team we letter in compassionate service. He will never kick us off His team, no matter how many mistakes we make. He always forgives; and He is a kind and patient team leader. If we follow Jesus’ rules, we will become stronger and more faithful players on His team – the only team worth our loyalty, our total commitment, and our hours and hours of faithful service to those who need us.

God bless you!

Peggy