There they were. Not one of the shorter than 6 feet tall and all of them decked out in their basketball workout gear. You’d think they’d be in the gym but they weren’t. They were in the chapel service this morning, stretching and doing warmups as Dr. Carter, one of my collegues introduced them as our Concordia University Golden Bears men’s basketball team during his message.
The captain stood, back facing us, as the rest of the team mirrored his actions. Then, one of the players took a big yawn, looked around and laid down on the floor, breaking away from the patterned movements of the team. Then another broke his gaze from the captain and went and sat down on the stage. One by one, they fell away, leaving only a few awkwardly wondering what happened.
The point was made. Dr. Carter eloquently explained the importance of keeping our eyes on our Captain. Referencing the classic film “Dead Poet Society,” he rehearsed the struggle it can be to keep focused but explained the benefits, especially during this season of Lent, of watching and following the moves of our Captain, Jesus as we journey with Him toward the cross.
Remember that lent is an opportunity to really watch Jesus. Watch as He teaches us, guides us, and loves us. Watch as He is brutalized and killed for us. Watch as He is buried and rises for us. As a result, we can recommit to him as we use the refrain “Captain, My Captain.”
Peace!
