Aug 5th, 2021: Gracious Strength

 

I am happy that the Canadian Women Soccer Team defeated the American one. I still cannot forget the way the American team celebrated every goal during a World Cup match against Thailand in 2019. The score was 13-0 for the Americans. It did not stop the outrageous celebration when everyone knew they were a better team. I admire their hard work, the zeal to win, and their skills. Their lack of class while winning was another story. Enthusiasm is one thing. Outright disrespect for the other team is something else.


To be strong doesn't mean that we have the freedom to destroy others. Our true strength comes from the realization of our weaknesses and shortcomings. There is always an element of grace in being strong. Paul said this to Timothy: "Be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus" - (2 Timothy 2: 1). What does that mean? It is about being willing to die for others. It is about having the freedom to lift others up. It is about having the willingness to have less so that others might live. It is about having the courage to fight against homelessness and poverty. We know this is what God says: "Truly, I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." - (Matthew 25: 40).


It took a few days after the loss for the American Team to congratulate their Canadian Counterpart officially. There is still some grace left after all. Canada plays Sweden today for Gold. Go Canada!

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