Devotions

Reading: Psalm 17:17-18 NKJV

The Final Pin              

Thought for today: A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.  Proverbs 17:17 NKJV

Being a wrestler is not easy. Being the parent or friend of a wrestler is not easy. Being involved in life is not easy.

“Winner by a pin.” The right hand of the man with the black and white striped shirt shot up in the air, dragging the arm of the bouncing grappler along.

On the referee’s left side, our friend allowed his hand to be clasped by the official until the moment was over. His right hand quickly moved to his face, wiping away unwanted tears.

Unfortunately, every match he’d wrestled had ended in a pin. Every match.”

I followed the movements of our friend from the mat to the bench where he pulled his sweatshirt over his head. He dejectedly made his way around the floor to join other participants backed up and slid miserably to the floor. Once seated he bowed his head and allowed his body to shake from the sobs he had been holding in.

“I noticed my son hobbling along the wall after losing his match. A dislocated shoulder and wrenched knee were causing him to scuttle sideways sort of like a disjointed crab. 

Stopping by his friend, he slid into a miserable pile and slumped against the dejected form of his pal. Soon elbows poked each other and smiles began to emerge as the two began to cheer for those still wrestling.

Prayer: Oh Lord, help us take our eyes off of our needs and look to the needs of others. Both of our eyes will be lifted up in hope and encouragement.