Thank you for another fun day of C-Sports Basketball this past Saturday. There were a couple of times when the players got a little too intense during the games but the coaches and referees handled it beautifully. During this week Lets make a special effort to remind our teams and families:

Good sportsmanship is more than just rule following. Respect your opponent and treat them as you would want to be treated.
The red undershirt is a part of the uniform. There were a couple of players who wore different shirts under their jersey. If they have lost their red shirt please let us know so that we can get them another one.
Work on the rules with your team. I had a parent of a 3rd and 4th grade team asking why the referees were calling 3 seconds and double backcourt. Our refs are not terribly strict but it is important to make calls so that the players grow in their knowledge of the game. That’s a part of our developmental purpose. Please work on these rules along with travelling, double dribbling, etc.
Also, teach body control. Players often go full speed and that creates a lot of “pile ups”. Teach them to avoid body contact as much as they can and to pass or shoot before they get boxed in.

I had the opportunity to present a number of the halftime devotions Saturday. Please tell your families that we would love to hear an inspirational “Spirit story” if any of them feel led to speak during a half time. Just have them call Mrs. Rose.

Anyway, I spoke to the families about how our Recreation Ministry came to be and how we knew the “Call” was legitimate. We had many meetings to determine what we would do in the new (back in 2003) venture. At one of our meetings a member of the committee recited a scripture she had read that day from Proverbs 3 which says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not unto your own understanding.” And then, the part you will read on the podium at the entrance to the gym, “In all your ways acknowledge him and He will direct your paths.” The instruction has proven itself to be true as we trust and acknowledge Him with everything! Each season of our sports program results in changed lives for many. Then, look in the mirror…How else could we get the hundreds of volunteers who do so much without the direction of the Holy Spirit? All of you became “ministers” when you answered the call to serve. We hear testimonies quite often about how your love and guidance has helped the children and families we serve. Please keep it up!

Two more game days before Christmas. Please encourage your teams to attend Christmas programs when they can and to experience the full and true spirit of the season. Stay healthy and safe! See you on the court!

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