From the Pastor’s Pen – By Brian Horrobin
The late comedian, Goerge Burns, who was known more for his humourous quips than he was for his sage advice, once said this: “When you stop giving and offering yourself to the world, it’s time to turn out the lights.”
It has often been noted that there is no “I” in “team.”
At the heart of selflessness is generosity.
It both unites and advances the team.
On a sports team, the truly selfless player cares nothing about personal achievement as long as his performance contributes to the overall success of the team.
Wallaceburg’s Shaun Suisham would be the first to tell you that his accomplishments as a place kicker with the Pittsburgh Steelers are gained by the hard work and careful hands of the holder.
I’ll bet you can’t even name who this guy is!
The holder of the football on a field goal attempt or extra point is only recognized if he muffs up his assignment.
Nobody carries him off the field on their shoulders after the ball splits the uprights for the game-winning field goal, yet what he does can mean the difference between a win and a loss.
I want you to think about your place of work, or the sports team you play on, or your role in your family.
Do you find yourself always aspiring to garner the attention, or are you content to do what’s needed for the benefit of everyone else?
Philippians 2:3-4 says it so well: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interest of others.”
Let me leave you with the wise words of John Bunyan, who said, “You have not lived today successfully unless you’ve done something for someone who can never repay you.”
