Sunday Blessings

Sports can be hard outside of Utah since so many of the competitive leagues often play some of their games on Sunday. All 3 of our boys enjoy sports and are good little athletes, so of course we want them to have those opportunities when they arise. We have run into the Sunday problem often, but have been blessed to be able to stick to our convictions.

The coaches, teammates and parents have been understanding (though they make it clear that our boys are missed). When I talk to or email the coaches I say, "We have a strong commitment to the Sabbath in our family. Our Sabbath is Sunday, so we won't be able to play soccer/basketball/baseball on that day." It articulates our feelings much more clearly than, "We don't play sports on Sunday," and seems to create an understanding in those we play for and with. 

Recently Jace made the All-Star team (he had an amazing try-out and really blew them away), and we were so proud of him. After we received the news and knew there would be Sunday play, we let the coach know about our commitment, ready and willing to play or not to play. Jace was elated when the coach still wanted him on the team. I know it won't always work out this way, but we are sure grateful when it does.

Parker will be trying out for travel soccer again, and they can have as many as every other game on Sunday. It's a pretty penny to play, so when the coach asked if we would be coming back, I honestly told him that between the cost and our Sabbath feelings, we weren't sure. He told us that they really want Parker and really miss him when he is not there. They said they would do everything they could to get Saturday only games if we would be willing to play. Another great blessing.

It can be easy, as we raise our kids to get caught up in the things that won't matter much in the long run, because we know they matter so much now to them, and to us. Mike is a rock, and has such great perspective. I am so glad he is my partner in this journey. His head is always on straight even when mine is not. I am also grateful for an friend a little further down the raising kids road who told me, "Whenever I make a decision I think, who am I trying to raise? An athlete? A singer? and the answer is always, 'No.' I am trying to raise a man who will follow Jesus Christ."

I know we are always blessed for choosing to be on God's side. It doesn't always come the way we hope it will, but the blessings are always there.