"It isn't the mountains ahead to climb that wear you down. It's the pebble in your shoe (or skate)" - Muhammed Ali
There is some great wisdom in this article by Greg Koukl. In it, Koukl addresses our need for baby steps before sprints. Living life in the midst of so many things going on around us, it's often easier to want the quick big fix, but easier is not always better. Sometimes little changes, although not earth shattering, lead to changed lives. We believe that this idea is something that can be applied to far more than just sharing your faith among your friends and teammates, but can go much deeper into all aspects of life.
But....
Today we are going to focus on how it can help you share you faith in the game of hockey.
As hockey players and people, we know the hockey season is one of the longest, most grueling seasons in all of sports. Day in and day out for at least 6-7 months most players can expect to be in the thick of competition. This is a good amount of time. And time should be used as an ally in our practice of telling others about the hope we have in Christ. As the old sayings go, "Rome wasn't built in a day" and "you build a house a brick at a time."
So, when looking to share your faith, don't get swallowed up in the pressure you have to explain every detail and get things all wrapped up in one conversation. You will be with your teammates for many days, months, and perhaps years. Instead, take the long view and seek to share little bits of the Gospel over time. Not only will this be easier on you, but it will allow the person you are talking with to think upon, digest, ponder, mull over the truths you are speaking. Use the long season to your advantage and above all else......LOVE your teammates.
Questions:
- Have you ever been scared, overwhelmed or anxious about sharing your faith?
- Do you think sharing a small part of your faith or truth will be easier or harder?
- What is something small you can share this week with those around you? (we have lots of ideas, but that would take all the fun out of thinking of your own!!)
