Futbol is the world’s most popular sport. This is no exception in Malawi. I had the privilege of being part of a soccer tournament planning group this past month. Liz is a missionary at Zehandi missions. She is a former world Racer who chose to come back to Malawi to work with Joahan and Marie (our ministry contacts). God showed her how to combine her passion for soccer with her calling to do ministry.
Liz is now putting together tournaments in different countries in order to spread the gospel through the Living Ball. This ball has Bible verses that correspond to different colors in order to share the Good News. Liz’s goal is not just evangelizing but discipling as well. She wants to find local believers who can follow up with the soccer coaches and players after the tournament. They can form relationships and point the way to Jesus.
I really enjoyed being part of the soccer group as I used to play soccer and I can see how God will use this program to bring people to His Kingdom. We had a few unforeseen challenges along the way but we learned that everything must be done according to the Holy Spirit. The only way for something to be successful for the Kingdom of God is if it is done in His timing and His way.
The soccer tournament was my favorite experience in Malawi! I was able to hang out with some kids beforehand. One boy in particular is a special needs kid but you could tell no one was really looking out for him. The other kids were mean to him and gave us weird looks for being nice to him. It was an opportunity for us to show him Christ’s love and to show them that he is important. I also had a lot of fun letting the kids sit in my camp chair. They had so much fun and joy in something so simple. Sometimes showing love through the smallest action is the means to making the greatest impact.
I acted as scorekeeper during the tournament but God kept reminding me that it isn’t about soccer; it’s about building relationships and showing love. I didn’t enjoy the tournament because I got to see people score goals. I enjoyed it because of the interactions I had with people I met. I enjoyed it not because 300 people were there to watch “futbol”, but because 300 people heard the Gospel and experienced the love of Jesus.
Psalm 37:4 says, “Take delight in the Lord and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Liz thought she had to give up soccer to do ministry. God knew that her desire would be used to build His Kingdom instead.
Think about the gifts and desires God has given you. Maybe there is a reason you have those gifts and desires. Maybe God intended you for something more.
By the way I have 70% of my financial support! However, I need to have $12, 500 total by April 1st in order to stay in the World Race. Please pray that the support will come and if you feel called to give just go to the tab that says, “Support Me!” on the lefthand side. Thank you so much to all of you who have already supported me!!
