On January 1, 1979, Alabama and Penn State met in the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans to crown the 1978 National Champion. Most fans in our area, if not across the country, remember this game for its fourth quarter “Goal Line Stand.” Penn State ran the ball twice from the 1 yard line and the Alabama defense denied them both times. Alabama won 14-7.
Alabama Linebacker Barry Krauss is heralded for making the tackle on the 4th down play that kept Penn State out of the end zone. Earlier this Fall, when Alabama played at Penn State, Barry was interviewed about that play. When asked to describe what happened, he simply said, “Everyone just did their job.”
He then explained the difference between that play and the third down play when fellow linebacker Rich Wingo made the tackle. On third down, Krauss was assigned to defend the lead blocker, thus freeing up Wingo to tackle the ball carrier. On fourth down, the assignments were swapped. Wingo absorbed the blocker, while Krauss leaped to stop the Penn State running back.
We as the Lord’s church can learn a lot about teamwork from the sports world. Those linebackers did what they were assigned to do. But everyone else on the field–the defensive line, outside linebackers, and defensive backs–also did what they were assigned to do. In the moment, they were concerned about doing their jobs. They didn’t care who would be featured on the best-selling Daniel A. Moore painting.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.” (1 Peter 4:10-11)
Peter says each one is to use his or her gift in serving one another. Doing so is how we show we are good stewards, or caretakers, of the gifts God gives us. Living for ourselves is not only a detriment to the church, but it is irresponsible and disrespectful toward God and what he’s given us.
Our goal should always be, “…that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.” Search your heart for what you do best (not necessarily what you want to do best). Commit to using it for God’s glory in the lives of others. The church is already victorious. But we can “win” everyday if we all just do our jobs.
