Big Props, Big Win, Big Green!

Big props to the cast and crew of "The Wizard of Oz".  The play put on by the students at Calvary Christian Academy this weekend was fantastic.  The acting and the costumes and the dancing and the voices were all "Broadway" caliber.  But the best part was Dorthy realizing she had "access" all along to go back to Kansas through the power of ruby slippers, the same way we all have "access" to heaven through the power of the red blood that was shed by Jesus Christ on the cross at Calvary.  I also love the parallel that along the "yellow brick road" of life, brains, heart, and courage are gifts from God and will guide us through life.

On Friday, the CCA boy's varsity basketball team had a BIG win against the lions of Westminster Academy.  Down by four points after the third quarter, the team erupted with 30 points in the fourth quarter to win by 10.  Ben Mayell led the Eagles with 35 points and 8 assists.  Shawn Lashbrook added seven points and 10 rebounds.  It was quite a show. 

Another exciting time coming up for these players will be on April 1st, when they embark on a 10 day mission trip to North Africa.  They, along with CCA Director of Football Trent Gamble, will teach and play basketball, and share the truth and love of Jesus, in the predominately Muslim country of Morocco.  On Friday, March 12th, we'll play the annual "Night of Champions" to help support their journey.

Finally, in a week filled with celebration, I'm honored to announce Dominick Pierre, a senior at CCA, will attend Dartmouth in the fall.  Dominick will be the first Calvary Christian Academy student to attend an Ivy League school.  He will also play football for the Big Green.  Dominick's humble yet competitve spirit, his relationship with his mother, Marie Jones, and his commitment to live for Christ will serve him well in the classroom and on the gridiron.

"I, the LORD, will hold your hand"

Isaiah 42:6 says, "I, the LORD, have called You in righteousness, And will hold Your hand."  The Lord God who created the heavens and the earth and gave breath to you and me has called us to be a light and "to open blind eyes".  And, He promises to hold our hand and keep us, and set us apart to rescue those in darkness.

2010 has started out to be a test for many of our CCA friends and family on many different levels.  Whatever your degree of disappointment, might I remind you and comfort you with this promise, the God of all creation is right next to you, holding your hand.  He loves you.  God loves you!  God loves me!  And, He's called us to press on.  He's called us to be a light regardless of our circumstance.

Last week our varsity girl's soccer team lost in the district semi-finals 1 - 0 in the second overtime.  It was an incredible game and our girl's and coaches should be very proud.  After the game the teams prayed together, and as the parents looked on, you could sense some feelings of disappointment that are natural after a tough match.  But, I rejoice in knowing that these young ladies know that they're called to be more than just great soccer players.  They've been called by Almighty God to be a light in a dark world.  They took the opportunity to share the gospel during a very emotional time.  They may not have made the finals, but hearts may have been transformed for all eternity.  And I, along with the others parents, couldn't have been prouder.

New Year, same mission

CCA Athletics and Calvary Chapel Fort Lauderdale have a common calling to go and "make disciples."  Pastor Bob says we have been commissioned to partner with God in leading others to a life of faithfully following in the steps of the Savior Jesus Christ.

How do we do this in athletics?  Read, Pray, Serve.

The Scriptures provide all we need to equip others to walk with God.  As Pastor Bob described this weekend, the Bible shows us the way to live, the how to decide, and the what to think.  The Word of God is our playbook and coaching manual.

Prayer gives us access to the power of the Holy Spirit.  God's Spirit gives us the guidance, wisdom, conviction, and confidence we need to lead and disciple others.  Here's a shot from the post game prayer between CCA and Coral Springs Christian Academy.

Finally, we need to set an example for all believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity.  We need to encourage regular interaction with God's family.  And, we need to help those who can't help themselves.  God wants to share His heavenly resources with those who can't help themselves.

2010 brings hope of new opportunity, but reminds us to remain steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord (1 Cor. 15:58).  See you at the Finish!