Access to a Coach

The Virginia Cavaliers lost a heart-breaking game to Syracuse on Sunday, which ended a strong season and an incredible run for this senior class. Players like Malcolm Brogdon and Anthony Gill were really impressive, but one of their key role players (especially in the tournament) was senior Mike Tobey. Sunday during the broadcast, a cool story was shared about this 7-footer’s up and down UVA career. Tobey wasn’t seeing a lot of playing time throughout the season, so he decided to schedule a lunch with the head coach, Tony Bennett, before the last ACC regular season game. During lunch they apparently went back and forth listening, talking, and reminiscing. They also discussed what Tobey needed to do to have a bigger role on the team and finish the season strong. Bennett’s encouragement to play with “reckless abandon” down the stretch resulted in Tobey scoring 15 points and a career-high 20 rebounds on Senior Night. Even though their season ultimately ended on a sour note, I love this story about Tobey and Coach Bennett getting lunch together. The dynamic between a player and coach is very special, and having an open line of communication is especially important. An accessible coach listens and provides guidance, while a player is given the avenue to vent his feelings and receive encouragement. Having the kind of relationship that allows you the opportunity to get lunch with your coach must be awesome. But you and I have even greater access, thanks to Jesus. We can come before the Creator of the world! We are given the opportunity for a relationship with the almighty God that includes communication and His presence at any time, anywhere. The Bible says, in Ephesians 3:12 (NLT), “Because of Christ and our faith in Him, we can now come boldly and confidently into God's presence.”  Today, let’s not take for granted how amazing and wonderful having the ability to know, experience, and enjoy God’s presence really is. When we talk, listen, express our frustrations, and ask for guidance, we know God always cares and desires us to come to Him. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for the opportunity I have to come before you. I'm so grateful Jesus bridged the gap between us. I pray I would spend more time with you and really soak in your presence. I appreciate how much you love me and I'm thankful for your willingness to speak and listen to me. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.