Looks like we got through another day that was supposed to be stormy. A big thank you to all for your patience as we closely monitor the weather each day and week. Every time there is a prediction of bad weather we get lots of calls at the rec desk asking if we are cancelling the practices or games that day. We are very conscious of the fact that families paid money to play and we do all that we can to hold the practices and games as long as it is safe and the weather at the time of the event is not too bad. It is, however, always the parents’ call as to whether or not they want to come on a day that may be too wet, cold, or stormy for their taste.
I was blessed last Thursday night to lead the music at our Celebrate Recovery program. Any time I get to do such ministry I try to explain to the crowd that, while it may seem that I am leading, I am simply worshiping with them. I pray about the songs I will play and I know God has in mind the message He wants the individuals to receive. The song I ended with Thursday night was my father’s favorite song, Whatever It Takes. He wanted me to sing it at his funeral in 1991 but I just couldn’t do it. I have, since then, presented it to a lot of groups and congregations. The message in the words, which sound to me like a prayer, is: “Whatever it takes to draw closer to You Lord, that’s what I’ll be willing to do. And whatever it takes to be more like You. That’s what I’ll be willing to do”. I love Proverbs, one of my favorite books in the Bible. Proverbs 4:25-27 tells us, “Let your eyes look straight ahead, fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm. Do not swerve to the right or left, keep your foot from evil.” As you lead your teams, players and families, you are both teaching and modeling this Proverb. Teaching right from wrong in terms of rules, sportsmanship, as well as technique. You are guiding children through a growing and life changing process and showing their parents that their child is progressing and maturing. I hope that you are letting parents in on your devotion message each practice so that they can “fertilize the seed” that you “planted” on the way home. You are the messengers in this ministry and for that we are grateful.
The last part of the song says, “I’ll trade sunshine for rain, comfort for pain, that’s what I’ll be willing to do. And whatever it takes for my will to break, that’s what I’ll be willing to do.” Pastor Jean Tippit preached in our Sanctuary service yesterday and reminded us that we are not to give a little bit, but give it all to Jesus. As we give, we receive. As we release ourselves, we become what God intends for us to be. And then we minister. We love with His heart, see with His eyes, and serve with His hands. Love God, Love others, and let’s change the world! See you on the fields!
In His Service,
Steve Ellisor, Recreation Minister
Christ United Methodist Church
251-706-3326
“In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:6