Give Me The Ball

I heard the Lord asking, “Whom should I send as a messenger to my people? Who will go for us?” And I said, “Lord, I’ll go! Send me.” Isaiah 6:8

Good bills languish away in Congress when they are “sent to committee.” In churches precious time is lost while committees analyze and conjecture about what should be done. There’s a measure of safety in this. If you are still talking, you don’t have to “do” anything. Anyone can point out the problems; few choose to step in and lead a solution.

I went to three meetings in a row for an organization this year. I heard all about the need to get more members, but even with many good ideas, I never heard anyone say, “I’ll run with that idea.” At church I hear all about the need to reach the world, but I have wanted to take an exit poll to see how many people actually talked to someone about God during that past week.

First Chronicles 12:38 shows the hearts of a group of fighting men who stepped up to make David king over Israel.

I have also learned about the need to step up from my sons. All athletes must work out, practice, prepare, and gain skills. But a leader sets herself apart when she says to the coach when her team is losing, “Coach, give me the ball, and I will make the play!” Then when the coach gives it to her, she makes the play.

When ideas are “in committee,” no one is responsible. But the moment someone says, “Give me the ball, and I’ll make the play,” then that person has stood out from the pack and said, “It’s on my shoulders. I am responsible.”