Christ's provision... for that we're all thankful.

We started the year praying Psalm 90:17, "May the favor of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us- yes, establish the works of our hands."  And now as we look back and see all that He has provided, we give thanks.

Christ's provision meets all our needs.  His Word gives us everything we need for life and for godliness.  His Spirit gives us the authority and power to change the world. And, His amazing love never fails to comfort us.

After Friday's regional final football game against American Heritage Delray, we all needed some encouragement.  I received a call from our Certified Athletic Trainer, Cori Thompson, regarding an injury to Greg Mabin.  He seperated his shoulder in the game, but according to the doctor, Cori was able to "pop" it back in place preventing futher damage.  Cori told Mr. Mabin that she felt God had His hand on this team the entire season and this was just another example of His provision.

I'm sure thankful God brought us Cori and has blessed us with His transforming presence this season.  Now it's time to press on, to learn more about Christ and the power He offers, and to continue to offer ourselves as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God.

Start sharing your story, start conveying your conviction

Last week's challenge was to "hold nothing back that was helpful."  Pastor Bob's teaching this weekend emphasized sharing our story with others and conveying our convictions, and he emphasized starting today.  I received an email this week that concurred with his message and exhorted all of us to be radical, revolutionary, and relentless in sharing our testimony and the truth about eternal life.

Our Head Soccer Coach for the varsity girls, Marcel Bombonato, understands the importance of taking every opportunity to share the gospel.  Here's his report after Monday's match against Coral Springs Charter:

After the game we invited the guest team to a short devotional... at first the coach did not understand why, but after our team mixed with the opposing team, the coach gathered as well. Captain and Senior Meghan Mason led devotional/gospel presentation followed by CCA coach's speech and prayer. The guest school participated in the prayer and some players had an opportunity to fellowship and exchange personal info. Our attitude was the same, whether we won the game or not, we are in Love with Jesus, our race is to win 'more' for him not the final score!

Are you taking every opportunity to share your story and convey your convictions?  Does your team or family know your heart?  Have you told them how God has changed your life?  Have you warned them about the consequences of disobedience?  When was the last time you simply told someone, "Jesus loves you, and He's got a plan for your life?"

Start today!

Hindsight is 20-20 (Acts 20:20)

Hindsight is the recognition of the possibilities of a situation after its occurance.  Too often people see others going in the wrong direction or bordering on disobedience, and they fail to confront them.  Paul says in Acts 20:20,

"I kept back nothing that was helpful, but proclaimed it to you, and taught you publicly."

I challenged all of our coaches to hold nothing back.  If they see selfish behavior, they should correct, rebuke, and encourage the right behavior immediately.  Just as coaches address mistakes on the field as soon as they recognize them, we need to confont spiritual and social shortcomings as soon as we see them. Paul says in Acts 20:27,

"I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of God."

Paul understood that everything matters.  Little things turn into bigger things.  We've all experienced that truth in our lives.  Our ministry as leaders, coaches, and parents is to share those experiences with young people so they don't go down the same path.  Our goal is to get them on the right path, so they can experience the blessings of walking in obedience.  In athletics, we tell our players to leave it all on the field.  Are you willing to help our youth understand God's will for their lives?

If you have a testimony about what God is doing through athletics in your life or on the CCA campus, please send it to danar@ccaeagles.org.

Love the LORD your God

Last week a CCA golfer shot the fifth lowest round in the regional finals, but his hopes to advance to the state finals were dashed when he lost in a playoff.  The 6th ranked Eagles (#1 in offense) were defeated by Melborne Central Catholic (ranked 3rd in the state) on senior day.  The volleyball team lost to WA in the district finals.  It was a very emotional week.  How will the teams react? How does one deal with the highs and lows in sports? 

The Bible says to love the LORD your God with all your heart, soul, and strength and your hope will be restored (Deut. 6:3-4).  Stay focused on what God has called and commanded you to do and you'll turn difficult circumstances into opportunities for growth.

This week is Homecoming. We'll have various activites to heighten school spirit.  We'll honor our football team, cheerleading squad, and alumni at the pep rally.  We'll travel to Benjamin for the volleyball regional quarter finals on Wednesday.  And, we'll play for the 1A district championship on Friday against American Heritage Delray.  But, our focus will remain the same - "making disciples", teaching our athletes that win or lose, we will continue to love and obey with everything we have.