Memorable things happened at the just concluded World Cup tournament. We saw players from Germany, Ecuador, Ivory Coast and Curacao, united in prayer after their final World Cup group games. showing the Gospel transcends nations and football.
Having been opponents on the pitch, some players from both sides came together in their own prayer huddle. Curacao players have been particularly vocal in praising JESUS, praying and singing worship throughout. Blessed are those not ashamed to identify with the Lord JESUS CHRIST. Hallelujah
As someone said, “In a tournament built on rivalry, and fierce competition, this is a reminder that there is something greater than football. Different nations. Different shirts. One KING………..The world tells us to divide. JESUS brings us together.”
German goalscorer Felix Nmecha honoured his Faith in the game with his signature goal celebration, where he acts out the motion of laying an invisible ‘crown’ at the feet of the cross. Speaking about the post-match prayer, he said, “During the game we’re opponents, but after the game we’re Christians, so we’re BROTHERS……….We want to see JESUS glorified through the game.”
Christian footballers from England and France shared a group prayer after their ten goals thriller. England beat France 6-4, with a hat-trick from Christian forward Bukayo Saka. Seven players from both teams ended the evening by huddling together in prayer. France’s Upamecano, Lacroix, Mateta and Chalobah wrapped their arms around Saka, Guehi and Eze, for a final prayer of the tournament.
If football players, who spent 90 to 120 minutes competing against each other, could come TOGETHER, and PRAY together, as BROTHERS after the games, why can’t our ‘big pastors’ FORGIVE one another, sheath their swords, UNITE, and move forward as one? It’s heartbreaking to see, know, and read about pastors who don’t greet each other, can’t sit together in Christian gatherings, won’t shake hands, nor want to have anything doing together, because of a past offence, doctrinal differences, or the prideful notion/attitude of superiority complex: “They are my boys in ministry. I am their Baba.” LORD, have MERCY on the Nigerian/African Church, in JESUS Name.
Bless the Name of the LORD for the JOY found in this World Cup. In a tournament where many chase the spotlight, it’s beautiful to see players first turn their hearts toward the ONE who deserves all the GLORY. May we continue to support and encourage one another, and be reminded/mindful that we are all ONE in JESUS CHRIST. Amen
DA