“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person? Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.” -1 John 3:16-18
I love football! I love watching my favorite teams play. I will be in the stands this week to watch high school football, and on Saturday, I will be cheering on my favorite college team. The game of football is filled with many wonderful moments of triumph, joy, and excitement.
Football is also a violent sport. It requires strength, speed, and a competitive spirit to be successful on the field. Players work out and practice long hours so that they are capable of competing at the highest level.
The football teams from Fayetteville-Manilus and Henniger, Arkansas, demonstrated their exceptional skills last Friday evening on the gridiron. More than outstanding football players, they also showed themselves to be true sportsmen. At the end of a hard-fought game the two teams conspired to make it a special night for Noah Dickinson. It would be an act of kindness that brought the fans to their feet and both teams together on the field.
Noah Dickinson is a running back for Fayetteville-Manilus. Noah has Down Syndrome. It usually is too dangerous for Noah to play, but this night, both teams would make sure Noah experienced the thrill of victory. With just a few seconds left, Noah took the field to cheers from both sides. The ball was snapped, and Noah took the handoff. He would run 75 yards for his first touchdown. The benches would clear, and both teams would gather to celebrate Noah.
A football game is a competitive event. Often, each team sees the other as adversaries or worse. Each team set aside their differences this Friday night to make one student’s dream come true. The entire stadium was blessed because they put kindness first.
God has called us to a life of kindness and generosity. These students offered their time and talents to help a friend. When we give from the gifts God has given, we can also make a difference.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
