Theme: Want Unity? Get an Alignment!

Verse:

The University of Washington 8-man crew of 1936 was a special group. Their journey to an unlikely gold medal in the Berlin Olympics is featured in the movie “The Boys in the Boat.” Despite a number of setbacks along the way the team had a level of cohesion that transcended all the advantages held by their competitors from more experienced schools and the European national teams.

The 8-man crew competition is all about teamwork and unity, more so than most other Olympic sports. Even the strongest rower can be a detriment if he/she is not in synch with the rest of the team. Unity is paramount.

But unity in life is a difficult thing to achieve. We all have differences and disagreements. After all, we are not robots. The world around us makes that clear every day. Unity needs to be something we are constantly striving to achieve.

So, Dave, how do we do that?

It starts with having a common goal or focus. As Christians a good place to start with Jesus. Let Him be the filter we use to determine our actions and decisions. With that filter we gain alignment with Him. Just like our cars run smoother when the wheels are in good alignment, our ability to be good teammates, friends, spouses, parents and children goes smoother when we are in alignment with Jesus. We become more coachable in all aspects of our lives.

So, as we enter 2025 focus on Jesus and allow him to be the filter for all our decisions, especially when we are tempted to be disagreeable with others. Get in alignment with Him and the unity that provides will lead to a better and probably and less stressful life.

Have a GREAT week and Welcome to 2025.

Adapted from Lead with Faith Play with Purpose by Andy Dooley