As I watched the game today, I must say that I was on a bit of pins and needles. Watching one inning 'get away' through errors, and seeing their comfortable lead dissipate and turn into a one run deficit, I wondered if they could overcome. But you know what? They did! By playing baseball, focusing on the fundamentals, and the cool of a pitcher who 'got control' over his emotions - these boys won. Not barely but soundly - beating their opponent in the final innings, where it counts.
All of the boys on this team are special to us and many are our personal friends. We know their parents and we know them. Some of these boys are members of this church, but more importantly, they are all members of our community - and we are proud of them. They have accomplished something that only a few do - a state championship - and NO ONE will ever take that away.
Likewise, our Christian standing is given us by grace, but it is lived as we apply Christ's love and sacrifice one day at a time. I have found that most people want to win in life, but not all are ready to make the daily sacrifice necessary for a life well lived by taking it on the road. Jesus said, 'take up your cross daily and follow me' and, as we do this, victories are won.
So congratulations Plano West Wolves. We are proud of you! And, we pray that your lives may always reflect both the glory and story of how you won. By talent? Yes! But more... by diligence, hard work, and by taking it on the road.
We love you and tell you so!
Pastor Sam
