While waiting for our turn on the court, Jay gathered the boys, about 25 of us, and formed a big circle. Someone lead the opening prayer. Then everyone brought out their mobile phones to open the Bible app.
We read James 1:2-4 which says…
“Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
Jay started dissecting every word in it and soon, some of the boys started sharing personal experiences of how their faith was tested in the past and how they stood their grounds.
We divided into smaller groups to further share more about the message of the scripture. We ended the activity with heartfelt prayer – prayers for each other in the group.
Dhug, dhug, dhug… that’s the sound of the balls dribbling and bouncing. Mis na bro!
That was yesterday, when I played in CCF Dubai’s basketball ministry for the first time. What a great experience it was – pre, during and post-games. Everyone’s friendly, accommodating and gleaming.
We warmed up our spirits ahead of stretching the muscles. We fed our souls with His words ahead of the bread and nutella. We had a time with Him before we huddle with the team.
The games, of course, are not highly competitive but are really fun-filled.
Talking about embracing the day’s message – literally, someone driving to the basket, though heavily guarded, looks full of joy, pure joy, as he is aware his perseverance to make the shot is being tested. And by the same perseverance, everyone in the team were able to deliver nice assists, grab rebounds and steals, despite of a fast-pace run and gun game. The team ended up complete and not lacking anything… in stats. 😀 Parang life lang talaga ang basketball, di ba?
Playing basketball will never be the same again.
Truly in whatever we do, we can bring glory and honor to God.