The Pass

I’m getting ready to shift my sports attention to the Masters and NBA Playoffs, but before I do that I’m still soaking in the incredible finish to Monday night’s championship game. Those two shots and the emotions attached to each one were incredibly crazy. Although Kris Jenkins will always be a March Madness legend because of his game-winning shot for Villanova, we should also remember “the pass” made by Ryan Arcidiacono. With the ball in his hands, Arch had to make the decision to either shoot or pass. As we all know, he made the pass and gave up the opportunity to take the shot...allowing his teammate to be the ultimate hero. Ryan’s scenario is especially remarkable when you realize he’s a senior, a captain, grew up rooting for ‘Nova, and probably dreamed of hitting a championship-winning shot. Yet, he followed his instincts and his selfless decision led to Villanova becoming champions! When it comes to our own lives, we make decisions to pass on friendships, jobs, houses, and many other opportunities. Passing on some activities or relationships can be hard, even when deep down we know we should. But as we follow Jesus, those decisions to pass become easier when we seek His wisdom and ask Him to lead us. Decisions we face may have us thinking that more money is enticing, or more power is irresistible, or more attention is alluring. A temptation may even have us thinking that it’s not that bad, or nobody will know, or at least I’m not doing something else. But, these are the moments we must utilize “the pass.” The Bible says in James 1:14-15 (NLT), “Temptation comes from our own desires, which entice us and drag us away. These desires give birth to sinful actions. And when sin is allowed to grow, it gives birth to death.” Each day, we have the choice to give in to our selfish desires or to pass and trust that God’s way is better. I believe God wants us to turn to Him as we make all sorts of decisions each day...and if we listen, He will tell us when to pass. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know there are times in my life that I need to pass. Please give me the discernment to know when that is. I trust that you are powerful and see the big picture. Help me to seek You as I make both big and small decisions each day. I pray this in Jesus’ name, Amen.