The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him. Proverbs 20:7
Yesterday our family was in Beaumont for an All Star Tournament. It was the last tournament of the season, so after the last game, our team had a "love fest" and we all commented on how nice a group this was to be around. I had numerous people come up to me yesterday to tell me that Jon had made a major impact on their child's softball game, but more importantly their philosophy about sports. Jon said yesterday to the group, "Success is not based on winning or losing (and they lost plenty), but on how you played the game."
Jon was not always this way. When I first met Jon it was all about winning and acquiring. He was a hard worker and he had huge goals. If he was taken off course, it was a major blow. When Jon did not do well in law school, he was devastated and had lots of anger. When he was playing for the church softball league, our Saturday evenings were gauged on how well he played and whether the team won or lost. If the team won and Jon played well, I knew we would go see a movie and grab some dinner. If they lost he would probably just go home.
What changed Jon Boulware's philosophy of life?
God changed Jon Boulware, and Jon gave the controls over to God so that he could be changed.
Jon sees winning with different eyes because of His relationship with Christ. He knows that the things he used to put great importance in, are not the things that matter at the end of one's life. Jon is writing a story for himself that really counts, and part of that is the legacy of a good coach that teaches the game, and how to play the game with integrity and purpose. Our children have an amazing role model and father who is constantly directing their eyes to Christ.
I am thankful to have been given a father who, like Jon, has made a difference in the lives of many students because of his love for God and his commitment to wanting to help others. In the past two weeks I have seen messages on this blog, and some other private e-mails, from students that have credited my father for helping them set higher expectations for themselves and work to attain those goals. What a legacy to have. When it is not about ourselves, but about lifting others up, then we have truly become an example of God's love.
How tragic it would be to have a father like Jon Boulware or Marv Weston and not want to seek advice or communicate with him. That child would be missing out on all that wisdom, and the joy of being with their dad. It is the same way with us and God. God is always available to give us blessings and comfort, yet we often take Him for granted and we don't take advantage of all the benefits of being His child.If you have not talked to your heavenly father in a long time, there is no better time than now to get your relationship back on track. He is waiting to bless you and welcome you with open arms! God, our Father is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in mercy." Psalm 103:8
A life lived for Christ is the best inheritance we can leave our children.
Happy Father's Day!
Sandy
