Still on the Same Team

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins” – 1 Peter 4:8

I always tried to follow directions. The funny thing was, sometimes I tried so hard that it looked like I wasn’t following them at all.

I remember a time during powder puff football practice where we ran our offense against our defense. Our quarterback went to throw the football and instead of grabbing her flag I grabbed her and pulled her to the ground, except I saw it happening, so in almost slow motion form we went into a downward spiral to the ground. My arm wrapped around her chest, I couldn’t let go and she came up swinging. I remember half laughing while fully apologizing. 

Both of us, caught off guard.

Looking back, I wonder how many of life’s most challenging moments begin exactly that way. A moment meant to help, received as conflict instead. 

We apologized and the practice went on. We didn’t become sworn enemies, we actually became friends. 

I think God was holding onto both of us that day. We loosened our grip and unclenched our fists enough to let Him redirect us.

Looking back, I know I didn't tackle my teammate because I was careless. I was trying so hard to go after her flag that we just got tangled up. I think that’s true of more of life than I'd like to admit. Sometimes the people we love are just trying to do the right thing and things get tangled up. Somewhere in the rush we forget we're on the same team. 

Sometimes one of us is carrying the ball while the other is protecting the play. Sometimes we misunderstand each other or misread the play. Sometimes we react before we realize what happened. Holding the football has never meant you’ll always make the right play. It means refusing to walk off the field when you don’t. It means apologizing, extending grace, and remembering that Christ never leaves the field.

Heavenly Father, thank You for the people who keep showing up, even when we stumble. Forgive us when our good intentions become tangled, and help us to extend the same grace You so freely give to us. Thank You for reminding me that we are always on the same team. Have a beautiful day, God. Amen. 

All My Love,

Jen

For more information about Get Strong with Jen! click here.

Hold the Football - Never Meant to Carry the Game Alone - click here.