E N E M I E S   A N D   A L L I E S

Mark 3:6

Do you ever think about the irony that accompanies some of the videotape exchange between your opponents?  Some of the bitterest rivals in your conference exchange the best film they have of your team because they both want to beat you.  In the world of sport, mortal enemies become momentary allies in order to defeat a common opponent.  There was at least one similar instance in the life of Jesus.

In Mark’s gospel at chapter 3 and verse 6 we read, “Then the Pharisees went out and began to plot with the Herodians how they might kill Jesus.”  The Pharisees and Herodians were bitter political enemies, but they found themselves with a common opponent – Jesus of Nazareth.

In your sport, there are times when natural enemies share information in order to beat another team with whom they both must compete.  Usually, that team’s above them both in the standings.  Sometimes their conspiracy of information may even lead them to compromise ethical standards.

What are you to do?  Be who you are.  Maintain your integrity and compete fairly, even when your opponents cheat and conspire.  That’s what Jesus did and it’s what He would do today.

As you compete today, do so within the rules and to the absolute best of your ability.  We’ll all be proud if you do and they’ll all be sorry.

Bible Reading Plan:
Matthew 22:1-14
Psalms 50
Numbers 5-6