Better Husbands

Better Fathers

Better Followers of Jesus

Better Men

 - Nate Whitson -

I'm probably going to ruffle some feathers today.

But stick with me and let me know where I'm wrong.

"I just don't want my kid to miss out. Besides, we use that opportunity to witness to other parents that we're there with."

This was the justification I heard for why some friends of ours were missing church on Sundays due to their kids' sporting events.

Now, this may not be a big deal in the grand scheme of things if it was a one-off event.  But this is a part of a full season of this youth travel league.

They won't miss church just once - but for months!

Here's why I think this is a big deal and I hope you'll consider taking this same position too:

If I were to ask a dad of young sons what was more important - knowing Jesus and putting Him first in your life or being good at sports - we all know what the answer would be.

And yet...they still choose sports. 👈🏻

What does that actually say about what you REALLY think?

If we're honest, it means that sports are more important - even though what you SAY is something different.

Please hear me out:

I grew up in a legalistic church that felt like Christianity was more about rules than a relationship with God.  I have a true dislike for that type of religiosity, and I understand when people push back against this and argue that you don't "have to" go to church to be a Christian.

I agree.  You don't.

However, I think that's a cop-out at the same time.

Our actions speak louder than words and we all know that's true.  So, why are we saying we love Jesus more than sports and then make sports more important than Jesus?

Here's what I would love to see Christian men do (or don't do): 

Don't skip church for sports!

Instead, let your absence from the sport do your witnessing to the parents and to the kids who are wondering where you're at. 

Let your missing sports for Jesus be the conversation that opens the doors for you to tell your kids and your friends that there's nothing more important than making Him the first priority in your life.

Then, get out quickly after church and get your kids to their game if that's what you'd prefer to do.

If you want your kids to grow up to prioritize Jesus, then stop assuming they're going to make Him #1 later on if you don't lead the way today.

Nate

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P.S. 

What is your take on skipping church for kids' sporting events (or other activities that require missing multiple weeks)?

Share it with me - I'd love to hear your take.  Where am I getting it wrong?    📧 [email protected]