Reflections From Sunday Evening

So we are in the middle of "March Madness." NCAA Basketball tournament is one of the most enjoyable events for sports fans. (yes, even MU fans) This comes in light of Mizzou (number 2 seed) being upset in the first round by Norfolk State (#15 seed.) That was followed by #2 Duke (a true blueblood program) also going out in the first round beaten by Lehigh.
There are more upsets. There are more to come. So what about all this?
Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski has been in basketball for 37 years. Sports provide some of the greatest highs (he has won multiple championships) and some of the greatest lows. Absolutely true.
I remember the high of winning a baseball tournament in Little League. I remember losing to our rival, Montrose, in the semi-finals of our regional basketball tournament. We have all had moments of joy and moments of despair.
I remember the Chiefs losing the 1971 Christmas Day playoff game in double overtime.
I remember the Royals losing game 5 of the 1977 playoffs to the Yankees after taking a lead into the night inning.
I remember the Royals winning the 1984 World Series.
I remember the Chiefs winning their only Super Bowl.
I remember my son missing out on qualifying for state in cross country by one spot.
You get the idea. Sports are filled with ups and downs.
Oh yes, I remember the MU Tigers losing in the NCAA Tournament to Rhode Island one year - another lose to Northern Iowa on the last shot of the game - Tyus Edney (MU fans need no other explanation.)
But overall the wins and loses tend to balance out. The joy of competition prevails. Once the games end and the results are in the wins and losses are remembered but the experiences last forever.
So here is the bottom line. It is better to experience the lows of defeat than never participate. Sports carries with it the possibility of great joy but it requires the great risk of the experience of loss.
I hope you can see the implications for life in general - but for the Christian life in particular. There will be moments of joy and moments of despair. There will be times of gain and times of loss.
Always remember the life is worth living. The faith is worth claiming. Remember - Experience - make your moments in the life of grace.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve