Friend or Foe?

Athletics today are driven by hate and anger. Coaches teach athletes to hate their opponent. Rivalries are made because anger reigns between two teams. What happens when you reach the Eastern Conference finals only to play against one of your best friends? This happens to be the case as the Detroit Pistons take the court against the Boston Celtics. Superstars Chauncey Billups and Kevin Garnett have one of the most unique relationships in the NBA. Garnett is actually the godfather to the second child of Billups. How can you possibly compete in this situation? The answer, LOVE. Love is the greatest motivation. If these athletes were driven by hate or anger against their opponent, then they would be put into a difficult situation.

Jesus has this to say in Matthew 5:43-44, "You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Does love mean to let your opponent win? No! God calls you to be the toughest competitor out there. However, let your motivation be for the love of Christ. Tackle your hardest, box out the toughest, and spike with all your might. But also pray, for this is what God has commanded us to do.

Brian Conklin
Omaha FCA