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“For we are co-workers in God’s service” (1 Corinthians 3:9a NIV)

Yesterday, the 2018 World Cup started in Moscow, Russia. Though the United States still hasn’t quite picked up on the popularity of the game of soccer, more people will watch the “World's Game” than America’s football game, the Super Bowl or baseball’s World Series.

There are many famous soccer players who only need one name to identify who they are: Messi, Ronaldo, Maradona, Pele and many others. These particular four names are brought up in conversations whenever someone asks, “Who is the greatest soccer player ever?” All four are amazing and can do things with a soccer ball and their feet that are mesmerizing. But if you were to ask any of them to play a game by themselves against a full team of 11 players, I couldn't guarantee they would, no. Just like any other team sport, soccer must be played with a team of players, not just one individual.

The Church needs to be reminded that it is a team of believers that should put others first. In some sense, the most important statistic for a Christian is the assist. Even Jesus, the Son of God, the maker of Heaven and Earth, denied himself and put others first. Let’s be reminded what Philippians 2:1-11 NLT (New Living Translation) tells us:

“Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.

“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

“You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

“Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Lord, help us to work together to love our neighbors like you did. Help us to humble ourselves and put others first. May you be glorified in all we do. In Jesus Mighty Name, Amen!