FIFA...
Two weeks ago, Sophia and I had the chance to attend one of the FIFA World Cup matches at Arrowhead (Ahem, Kansas City) Stadium between Algeria and Austria thanks to some very kind friends. The stadium was packed, the atmosphere was electric, the fans were loud, and every big moment felt like it could shake the place. If you've never been to a World Cup match, I highly recommend it. It lived up to every bit of the hype.
One thing really caught my attention.
I'm used to American football, where the parking lot is full of hundreds of different tailgates. You've got one family grilling burgers over here, another group playing cornhole over there, and someone else trying to convince everyone that their brisket recipe is "award-winning."
The World Cup was different.
Instead of hundreds of little tailgates, it felt like there were only two. Thousands of Algerian fans gathered on one side. Thousands of Austrian fans gathered on the other side. They were singing together, eating together, waving flags together, laughing together, and celebrating together. The sense of community was awesome.
I came away thinking, if you cheered for the same team, these people would probably help you change a flat tire, loan you twenty bucks, and invite you over for dinner.
Since our seats were surrounded almost entirely by Algerian fans, Sophia and I made what I believe was a very wise strategic decision...we cheered for Algeria! Thankfully, they welcomed us right into the fun, and we had an unforgettable father-daughter evening together.
As I reflect on that experience, I can't help but think about the church. One of the things that should set God's people apart is the way we care for one another. Not because we wear the same jersey, but because we've been adopted into the same family through Jesus Christ.
This Sunday we'll continue our series, “Prayers in the Bible”, by looking at one of the greatest prayers ever recorded, in Ephesians 3:14–21. What's fascinating is that Paul is writing from a Roman prison. If anyone had a reason to focus on his own problems, it was Paul. Yet instead of asking everyone to pray for him, he spends his time praying for them.
He prays that God would strengthen their souls, anchor them in Christ's love, and fill them with His presence.
His example reminds us that one of the greatest ways we can love each other isn't simply by offering advice or trying to fix someone's problems. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give another person is faithfully praying for them.
So before you come on Sunday, I'd encourage you to think of one person who is walking through a difficult season. Bring their name with you. My prayer is that God would not only deepen our own prayer lives but also make us the kind of church that faithfully carries one another to the throne of grace.
I sure hope to see you on Sunday at 8:00, 9:15 (Full KidCity available), or 10:45 am (Full KidCity available)…OR a service in Spanish at 1:00 pm. Otherwise, you can watch the Livestream on YouTube (Like and Subscribe) or on our New Life website at 9:15 am. Also, we would LOVE for you to follow us on Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.
Praying for a great weekend,
Troy
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