By Kelly Carr 

Sports have been a part of my life ever since I can remember. 

My dad loves sports, and I followed along after him, watching basketball and baseball especially. He was my coach for most of my young softball career. I enjoyed the competition and learning from him. I still enjoy attending University of Kentucky men’s basketball games with him each year.  

I married a guy who enjoys sports as well. Through his interests I’ve added soccer to my schedule, both watching professional games and now watching my daughter play. Her dad is her coach like mine was. 

Positives

There are many positives I’ve gained from playing sports. Lessons about discipline, teamwork, trying new things, working to gain skills, and how to win and lose graciously. What have you gained from being a part of teams?

Watching sports I’ve enjoyed companionship, spending time with family and friends while we cheer on our favorite teams collectively. Today remains one of the biggest crowd gatherings of the year, as even those who aren’t sports fans often join in annual Super Bowl celebrations. 

Sports can draw people together who may have never met one another otherwise. Sports can keep us healthy and give us enjoyable hobbies. 

Opportunities

I enjoyed putting together this theme for The Lookout because I discovered stories from three men who found a way to incorporate their faith into the sports they love. In the arenas of football, boxing, and hockey these men are able to work with others through athletics and give glory to God at the same time.

Do you consider your interest in participating in or watching athletics as an opportunity to show the love of Jesus? Perhaps it’s in your attitude that people will get a glimpse of him. Perhaps it’s the friendships you make that eventually move beyond discussion of game scores to topics of a spiritual nature.  

God wants to be a part of every facet of our lives, and he can use our interests to teach us and reach others through us. So today or in the months to come, when you are yelling at a screen with friends or sweating alongside teammates to go for the win, keep God in mind. Keep your eyes open for the ways he is moving. And keep enjoying the game.