Our Unley Park Basketball Club season finishes this Saturday with three of our five teams playing in the Grand Final. Our club emphasises these five values: participation (every person matters), growth (we give our best and train to be even better), teamwork (we play with humility, passion and integrity), fair play (we give honour and show respect) and the game (enjoy it and have fun).

These values are about more than basketball – they go beyond the game itself. The Scriptures teach us these same values.

Participation – Paul writes of the body of Christ and how each of us are a part of it. Every part is important to the body – everyone belongs, everyone matters! In our basketball team everyone’s participation and unique contribution help the team do well. In our church family we value each person and we are better when we serve together.

Growth – In 1 Corinthians 9, Paul describes how athletes train to improve – in the same way we can aim to strengthen and grow our faith.

Teamwork – The wisdom of King Solomon tells us that “two are better than one. They can help each other….” Basketball players would agree that a two-on-one offence will most likely result in a basket! We are created to be together and work together.

Fair play –Paul challenges us to be humble and honour others above ourselves and to love one another deeply. We have a great cohort of referees represented in our church and just as we need to show honour and respect to them (and others) in the heat of the game, so in God’s family, we strive to show honour and grace in all life’s ups and downs.

The game – Jesus reminds us that he has come to give us life – a life that is meaningful and full – we can enjoy it!

Blessings,

Sarah