Last night we concluded our season for Upward flag football and soccer. It is so exciting to see those kids who have enjoyed those teams so much, to see the coaches that have worked so hard with them, and to know that they have received so much more than just athletic instruction. These coaches have spoken into the lives of these kids.

I was reminded of the fact that there are so many things that are trying to get the attention of our kids; therefore, the attention of parents. We involve our kids in many things in order to improve their skill level and give them greater opportunity. While much of this can be very profitable, sometimes a price has to be paid in terms of involvement in Christian growth. Our Upward Program gives them the opportunity to do several things. It teaches them the basics of the particular sport and the importance of being on a team. It shows them very clearly the connection between competition and principles of the Word of God. By having your child involved in a program like Upward, you are saying very clearly to them that the things of God are very important to you as a parent. We don’t have to speak to send very clear messages to our children many times. It is important that we always be on our guard not to let “good things” get in the way of their development for the Lord. In Upward, we are not just interested in their developing this season or next season, and while that is certainly one of the goals, we are interested in building a foundation that will make a difference for a lifetime. These kids learn things that stay with them. Those of us that are parents, no matter the age of the children, we constantly need to be praying that God will put people in their lives that will unapologetically, clearly and forcefully share the principles of the Christian life with them. Our culture has proven that “being around good folks” is not enough. We should also intentionally make sure that they are involved in programs that will accomplish the goal of building their life in Christ.

Our registration has begun for Upward basketball and Upward cheerleading. If you have a child in one of those age groups, you certainly want them to be a part of it. If you know someone in your neighborhood or work that has a child in that age group, you would do them a favor by recommending our Upward program to them.

Last night I was proud of our kids, proud of our coaches, and grateful for parents who have made it a priority to have them involved.