“Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ;
certain that God is appealing through us,
we plead on Christ’s behalf, ‘Be reconciled to God.’”
– 2 Corinthians 5:20

As coaches, we often remind our athletes that they aren’t just playing for themselves. It was a regular practice for me to tell my players that the name on the front of the uniform was more important than the name on the back. What I hoped to get across was the idea that as a team we represent much more. Each time we step on the field or court, we are being watched. People notice how we play as individuals and as a team. Opinions about our coaches, our school or club, and even our families are being formed as others observe our play. When time runs out, and the contest is over, how we respond in victory or defeat says a great deal about us. We should strive to be good ambassadors for our team, school, and community. Wouldn’t it be great to hear opponents say, “I like playing the Falcons, they always play hard and with class.”

As followers of Jesus Christ, we must remember we represent someone greater than ourselves too. Jesus was the ultimate team player. No one served others better. No one sacrificed more. What a model to follow; what a responsibility we have to do all in our human strength to live up to the standard Jesus set. Every day people are watching us and how we go about our lives. Do we strive to be good ambassadors for Christ, or does our faith look like a roller coaster as we go through the ups and downs of life? What do people hear when we speak, and what do they see when they watch our actions? Wouldn’t it be great if someone said to us, “There is something different about you, can we get together sometime so you can tell me more about this Jesus guy?”

Father God, thank You for Your Son Jesus. Help me understand others are watching me today. Guide my actions as I strive to be a worthy ambassador for you. Amen.