Yesterday we watched the Uconn women's game. What an incredible win! What I loved most were the interviews afterwards with coach Geno Auriemma and player Paige Bueckers.

There is such wisdom we can learn from their interviews, whether you are a sports person or not.

Geno shared that he went on a walk before the game and said, "God, I don't need another one of these (wins) but my players do. Can you do it for them?"

And then in Paige's interview, she thanked everyone who is a part of their "team" from the coaches, players, practice players, managers, assistants, massage therapist, fans and more. She recognized all the people who help the players become who they are and help them do what they do so that the win was possible. Also, she shared that " We lean on God's strength here, with God's power and for God's purposes."

These two interviews spoke of the selfless, outward facing care of a coach, and a player who sees the whole picture. Paige wasn't there to be the center of attention, instead she chose to be humble and honor those beside her who help build her and her teammates up while also acknowledging that this win was bigger than them and for God's purposes.

I share this with you today, to invite you to join me to...

pause. breathe. pray.

May we pause to see the character of Christ reflected in their interviews; the selflessness, care, humility, wisdom, strength and courage. May their words and work inspire us this week to be aligned with God's Word and to reflect His character to others. And when we finish our day, and week, may we be able to say, as Paige did, that what we said and did was in His power and for His purposes.

With love and hope,

Shawn

And whatever you do, in word or deed,
do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus,
giving thanks to God the Father through Him.
- Colossians 3:17