United We Stand…
Dear LFP Fam,
The beautiful game has taken over the continent. Tomorrow, so many eyes will be on Seattle as we host the second group stage game for the US men’s national team (USMNT) in the World Cup.
When I was growing up, American football dominated my imagination with my tradition of going to Husky games. Memories abound of Saturdays when I stepped into my dad‘s car with wet clothes and muddy soccer cleats and changed on the way to the stadium. In my adult life the "world's game" of football (the kind where you actually use your feet) took hold as our youngest competed at the highest level of youth sports, even traveling to Madrid to take on European club teams.
I began to recognize in football, and in the World Cup in particular, an image of the kingdom. The World Cup (similar to the Olympics) represents a moment in our global life where the fullness of the diversity of human culture is featured. This year fans from 48 nations descend on tournament locations, exploring the local culture and displaying their unique way of cheering on their team and celebrating.
I imagine that many, if not most, of you who receive this email are not exactly football fans. I encourage you to follow along with the stories and catch the spirit of how God can use these moments to illustrate the kingdom. Notice the tenderness of a community like Lawrence, Kansas, deciding to adopt Algeria as their team in the tournament. Or the way the Japanese fans take care of their trash after a competition. Watch how the Scots decisively bring the party, but in a joyful and decidedly peaceful way (I love how the Men in Blazers cover this event. The "Morning Cupdate" and the evening "Night Cup"episodes of the Men in Blazers podcasts will keep you up to speed -- https://www.meninblazers.com/watch-listen?release_date=upcoming )
Most of all, notice the way the World Cup brings people together to celebrate a game and the thrill of being caught up in something bigger. Observe how, for one month, the headlines can be about what unites us rather than what divides us. That is a vision that God commends.
With joy in the journey,
Jeff
P.S. on Sunday I referenced Juneteenth. I highly recommend this video called "Juneteenth: Faith and Freedom" created by Our Daily Bread for exploring the what and the why behind this national holiday. From Juneteenth until July 4 can be an important season for celebrating our freedom and also reflecting on how far we have to go to make the promises realized.