This past Saturday, I experienced a special trip down to Columbia, South Carolina to watch my alma mater Appalachian State take on USC.
Tailgating with my dad, two brothers, and a bunch of buddies, as well as seeing Williams-Brice Stadium up close for the first time, was so much fun. Then, to actually win the game 20-15 in dramatic fashion was an absolute blast!
As time was winding down, USC still had a chance to win with an open wide receiver in the end zone. But unable to secure the touchdown, the Mountaineers hung on for the Carolina sweep (they beat the Tar Heels earlier this season).
This was an exciting game to watch as an App State fan and I’m thrilled with the big win, but one of the greatest takeaways from the overall experience was how the Mountaineer fans took over the stadium.
South Carolina had their towels waving and demonstrated some cool traditions, but the presence of the App State faithful was clearly felt. Although there were more USC fans among the 80,000+ in attendance, it was incredible seeing support, enthusiasm, and black and gold shining throughout the stadium.
Everyone knew the App State fans were there as we cheered loudly and showed what a passionate fan base we are. By the 4th quarter, many of the USC fans left, and yet the Mountaineers remained standing while representing our school until the very end.
I hope this paints a picture of what we're called to be as followers of Jesus. We are expected to go into hostile environments or places where we're outnumbered and make our presence, or rather, His presence felt. We need to bring the light of Christ everywhere we go and stand out among the crowd.
Our enthusiasm, passion, and support for the Gospel should be evident and recognizable to the world around us.
Matthew 5:14-16 (AMP) says, “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden; nor does anyone light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.
"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and glorify your Father who is in heaven."
The App State players and their fans continue to be put in the spotlight, and every marquee win and impressive performance points back to a great university and football program. The players and the fans represent something bigger than themselves.
Likewise, when our light shines as followers of Jesus through the way we love, serve, and obey, it points back to God and He's honored and glorified.
We are told in Ephesians 5:8-9 (NLT), "For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true." In thinking about the Mountaineers taking over a stadium with their cheers and presence, let's be encouraged to allow the light of Christ to take over our lives, our homes, and any place we enter. Today, let's be mindful of bringing hope and joy to the world...and point our praises back to Him. I'm Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me stand out and be a light to everyone I meet. I pray that people would see You and sense Your presence when they meet me. I pray I can enter into tough places as You lead me, so I can bring light into a dark world. It's all for Your glory. In Jesus' name, I pray, Amen.
Discussion Questions for PACKS:
What does it look like for you personally to stand out and be a light to those around you?
What's the hardest part about standing out as a follower of Jesus?
How can your life bring glory to God and point back to Him?
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