The Last Dance
There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. Ephesians 4:4-6
Insight
Like most kids who grew up in the '90s, I worshipped Michael Jordan. As a devotional writer, I know it's a bit sacrilegious to make a statement like that, but it's indeed true. I drank Gatorade because of Mike. I only wore Nike's because of Mike. Every time I drove to the lane playing basketball, you guessed it, I stuck out my tongue because of Mike.
So, during quarantine, I soaked in every second of The Last Dance, a 10-part documentary chronicling the final season of the Chicago Bulls dynasty. It delves into how MJ became a mythical legend: his background, motivations, fears, and regrets. The documentary also shines a light on his teammates, coaches, and even his rivals.
Stories, stories and even more stories. These profile pieces provided a glimpse into the players behind the uniforms and the coaches behind the clipboards. They serve as a reminder that every person has a story. There are things a person is dealing with that sometimes can't be seen. Life is a journey that takes us down many paths. We encounter diverse circumstances, deal with various struggles, and develop different scars and wounds.
For all of our unique stories, we're all offered the same hope. It doesn't matter if you are big or tall, black or white, rich or poor, can dunk a basketball or have no hops like myself. The beauty of the Gospel is that everyone is welcome. However, our unique story influences the way we encounter and draw close to the Gospel.
For someone who left a string of broken relationships and poor choices in their wake, they key in on Christ's forgiveness. For someone who has been disappointed by others, they cling to God's faithfulness. For individuals who had unspeakable things happen to them, they cherish that Christ makes them clean and has the power to redeem everything.
The same message, a different experience.
So, today, take a moment to reflect on your own story. What does the Gospel mean to you? How has an encounter with Christ's love shaped your account? When you find these answers and articulate them, it frees you to see your story as a part of God's story.
Reflection
What aspect of the Gospel are you drawn to the most (forgiveness, reconciliation, hope, freedom, etc.)? Why does this aspect speak to you?
Complete the following sentence: The Gospel means to me ________. What makes you answer in the way that you do?
Prayer
God, thank you for Your faithfulness. No matter what I experienced or encountered, You have never left my side. You were there every step of the way. Help me to see how You were showing me part of Your heart amid my story. Give me the courage to articulate the hope I have found in You. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.
