Are you ready to LEAD…for God's Sake?

Parent Night is the kick off to the fall athletic season at Holland Christian High School and It began like most other parent nights with a brief summary of the season to come, a snap shot of the the website, and a quick over view of how and where to find that latest updates for what will be going on this fall. However following a very nice introduction by Matt Neal the Head Men's Basket Ball Coach at Hope College, it was clear that the speaker for the evening was going to move our thoughts and inspire our actions for the coming season. We had the Privilege of listening to Todd Gongwer author of the book Lead for Gods Sake!.

Todd started by telling us few funny stories and sharing at little bit about him self and how God put in him the words to write this book, he talked about how the words of the book and story were not his own but given to him through God. What a Great Way to Start the Night !!! 

I just wanted to highlight a few things that I picked out of the message last night. 

• As Coaches we have a great opportunity to influence and lead  
• As Parents you have the great opportunity to support and pray for the coaches and athletes
• All of our Coaches,Athletes and Parents have different personality's (it is a good thing ) we can learn and support each other through our different personalities. We all have something we can bring to the table  
• We ALL have the ability to help others and be there for others as members of the teams as parents and as Coaches 

I will just share a quick story. Last season we had a great group of senior girls on the Cross Country Team they were kind, supportive, and leaders. The underclassmen looked up to them for advice and as coaches we looked to them to lead. At the end of the season I got a few notes from some of the girls, notes with kind words, and thanks for being there for them through out the season. As a Coach these kind words and Thanks meant the world to me !! It made me realize that through my actions and words I was making an impact in their lives.

As we go Forward into this fall Athletic season, lets remember that we are here to lead and be led for the Glory of God. 

Hebrews 12:1-3 (New International Version)

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, 2 fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.3 Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.