"Gira, you're in!"
42 seconds remained. 19 points behind and the game officially lost, the Coach sent me in.
I was tall, but not very good. Getting any playing time was good. Being an 8th grader with a couple years of experience helped.
The other team used up most of the remaining time, and quickly scored again.
With only a couple seconds left, my teammate threw a Hail Mary the length of the court. It miraculously ended up in my hands.
I threw up a desperation shot, beating the buzzer by a split second.
I missed, but I was fouled and sent to the line to shoot two free throws.
The first, a total air ball, landed with a big thud.
I took a few extra pre-shot dribbles, breathed deep, and tried not to puke.
My second shot surprisingly was perfect and went swishing through the net!
The crowd erupted. No one rushed the court, but I felt like a champion.
Sadly my career as a student athlete didn't continue. I didn't make the high school team.
Still I love basketball and March Madness. But I confess I am a little mad still. I wish I could have been a starter. I wish I had spent less time on the bench and been a greater part of the team.
I'm reminded of why I love the Church so much. Here I'm a starter. On Jesus' team, I get to play! In the Church, I have a calling, a God-given ministry. I discovered my purpose and God-given gifts and abilities in the Church.
In the Church, everyone is a starter... not just me. You are a starter! There are no bench warmers. Everyone has a vital role to play and gifts to use. Whether you are gifted to teach, encourage, lead, pray, heal, sing, or anything else, your abilities and experiences can enrich the community. You can make a difference.
Nothing is more exciting and satisfying than seeing someone discover his or her ministry, their opportunity to serve, their reason for being here, and how their gifts fit. I love seeing others get into the game.
Too many people feel insignificant and think they have nothing to offer. Nothing could be further from the truth. I pray you can hear God calling,
"You're in!"
Pastor David Gira
