Dirty laundry

Galatians 5:13 (ESV)

For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.

God gifted and instructed each of us to use our gifts to serve Him and others. You may not be the biggest, fastest or strongest, but you can still serve.

Ashland University won the NCAA Division II national championship in 2013. A couple years later, prior to the start of the 2014–15 season the coach knew it would be his last. There was one senior and one junior who had been a part of the national championship team, and he revealed his retirement intentions to the senior, Taylor, before sharing with the rest of the team.

That year, their young team improved throughout the season, eventually finding itself in the regional title matchup, one win away from the Elite Eight. They played their hearts out, but it just was not meant to be. His 35-year coaching career ended, as did Taylor’s stellar playing career.

Soon, however, Taylor demonstrated what it had all been about.

As the coach started walking back from the postgame news conference, he saw his team approaching at the end of a long corridor. Taylor was in the middle of the group. As they got closer, he could see her carrying both bags of dirty laundry, one over each shoulder.

Taylor had just finished the final game of her career, but instead of thinking of herself in that moment, she chose to serve her teammates.

What can be the best way to serve those around you?

Dear Lord, thank You that You see us and know us by name. Thank You for the example of Christ and how He served while on earth. Let us keep You forefront in our faith as we reach out to those who are hurting and in need of Your truth and grace. In the Name of Jesus, Amen.