Wednesday, June 18, 2008

A Perishable Wreath

"Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable." 1 Corinthians 9:25

I love the Boston Celtics and last night, just before midnight in Boston, they won their 17th NBA championship. They did it in convincing fashion with a 39 point "Boston massacre" at the T.D. Bank North's Boston Garden. It had been a long time since their last championship, but they now join the Patriots and Red Sox as teams bringing home championships to New England since the turn of the century. Gotta love being a New England sports fan!

But as exciting as it is to win championships, the Apostle Paul reminds us above that we should be most concerned about another crown, an imperishable one. Paul is not talking about earning our salvation, we cannot do that. We are saved by grace through faith. But he is speaking about the importance of living out our faith in a disciplined manner. I want to be as commtited to Christ as any athlete is to winning a championship. I want to do those things that will honor and glorify Him. I want to examine myself and make sure I am in the faith. Then I can look forward to receiving the crown of life when Jesus returns!

I am thrilled about the Celtics winning their 17th championship. I am even more excited about knowing my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be the glory forever, Amen.

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