Growing up I played in the baseball league for many years, I then moved on to basketball, and even tried to play football for a year. I distinctly remember asking my mom one year if I could play soccer. She quickly told me no because she didn't want to sit in the heat. I completely understand her side and this isn't a post about how I have been holding in my anger for 15 years or anything like that.
So I never played soccer and stayed with basketball for the longest. Regardless of my mom's answer that day. soccer has come into my life and is continuing to bridge gaps for me! In high school one of my friends lived right across the street. We actually didn't have much in common. He loved soccer and drums, I loved basketball and myself. But we still hung out and one school year they had a foreign exchange student from Mexico. Jose was the bomb, us three spent many evenings sitting outside kicking the soccer ball. I never thought much of it and I was definitely the weakest link on these nights. I use these examples because I feel like God always kinda chuckles at us in the early years with things. Like I was not good at soccer, at all. Im still not the best. But, I have played it in 3 different countries now, which is super cool! I never will excel in soccer but God has used it in my life to break down language barriers. I was able to play soccer with William on the streets of Mexico. I have even kicked it with David in Kalimbira. We didn't share a common language, but we sure could kick a round object at each other. And sometimes that is exactly what people need. Just last night I joined in on the middle school group at my church. We were having a game night and I hadn't hung out with this group in a couple of years so I went. There were a few kids who I didn't know, but they had a football which is like a golden ticket to start an interaction. I got their attention and they threw me the ball. I was in! I say all of this because God can and will literally use any kind of gift you may have. Whether it is math, soccer, magic tricks, guitar, or even popping a wheely on a scooter. God uses our gifts in awesome ways, and I hope that we use them to point to him and not ourselves! "So whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." 1 Corinthians 10:31 Whenever I kick a soccer ball or throw the football I never think about the impact it could have. But, I know in my life when someone takes the time to just be with me it means a lot. Sports has allowed me to break through language barriers. But also in Mexico and Malawi the kids will laugh when I attempt to speak their language. So be open to try new things and people probably will laugh! But that is okay!! Walk humbly and see people where they are! Today, wherever you are just use your talents to bless others and show love! Maybe even learn a new skill and show people that you care enough to come to where they are! I pray that God will allow us to glorify Him in new ways today! Be constant in prayer for yourself and for those around you! I love you all!
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AuthorMy name is Andrew Berry! I am just living my life chasing after Jesus and trying to point others to Him. Archives
January 2017
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