Highlight Reel

This is a revisit to a post from this same time last year.  The journey the Pirate basketball team has been on this season is just as exciting as it was last year, but for me, the real joy comes from all the moments that show the character of these young men Greensburg is so proud of.  This is about one of those young men and one of those moments...

My high school alma mater's boys basketball team is on quite a journey.  

As one of 4 teams in their class remaining, they play next week for a spot in the Indiana state championship game.

I won't even try to explain that to you non-Hoosiers out there.

Trust me...

It's a big deal.

They are an incredibly talented group of young men who have worked hard, as individuals, and as a team.  

They never quit.

They have been a joy to watch this season.

But for all the jaw-dropping, ankle-breaking, make you hum the SportsCenter theme song in your head moments I've witnessed, my favorite one actually happens long before the opening tip.

In the midst of hip-hop music, raucous cheer blocks, and bitter rivalries, one young man drops to one knee and bows his head.

I'm sure he visualizes the game ahead, playing out mentally his role.

I'm sure he talks to himself...

You've worked hard...

You belong here... 

And I'm sure he prays to the God he has committed to give glory to.

Whether the shots fall for him...or don't

Whether the calls go his way...or not

Whether the final buzzer brings victory...or defeat

He prays and thanks God for this moment

For this opportunity

For the chance to follow his dream...the one this God has given him

I get chills every time I see this moment

In all things give Him glory

In all things give Him praise

And in all things...pray that God gives you the opportunity to make much of Him

I've been in some battles of late

And I have been lax in my prayers

I needed a high school ball player to remind me what matters most, what must come before anything...

To be in God's presence - before the battle rages

Thanks No. 32 for reminding me...

Write your story...

What I've seen so far has already made my highlight reel