The NBA’s play-in tournament officially commenced last night, with the Los Angeles Lakers clinching the 7th-seed in the West by defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 110-106. In the second game of the evening, the Sacramento Kings kept their playoff hopes alive by putting together a dominant performance in a 118-94 win over Golden State. With the game between the Kings and the Warriors being contested between the 9th and 10th seeds, respectively, both teams were aware of the fact that the loser of their contest would automatically be eliminated from playoff contention. Facing that pressure, Sacramento responded in a big way, exerting complete control of the game while handing the Warriors their largest margin of defeat against the Kings since 2006. Sacramento guard, De’Aaron Fox said this after the game: “We knew what was on the line. This was just another obstacle in our way. We have to get over this hump.” In sports, athletes often get extra motivation by understanding “what is on the line.” When they know the stakes are high, they have an additional desire to play with passion and energy. As followers of Jesus, it can be easy to lose sight of “what is on the line.” From a biblical standpoint, we understand that every person is born dead in trespasses and sins, and in need of the forgiveness that can only be found in Jesus. We also know that a failure to trust in Jesus for salvation will ultimately result in the eternal forfeiting of one’s soul. When we understand “what is on the line” regarding the eternal state of every soul, we have extra motivation to evangelize and share the gospel with everyone around us. In Romans 10:14 (ESV), the Apostle Paul asks, “How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching?” It’s almost like Paul is saying, “Do you understand what is on the line? People’s souls are at stake, and they won’t come to saving faith if you don’t share the gospel with them!” Evangelizing and having faith conversations can be scary and challenging, so having the extra motivation of contemplating “what is on the line” could be the difference between remaining silent and openly sharing God’s truth. Paul explains further in 2 Corinthians 5:10-11a (NIV): “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad. Since then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others.” Today, let's take some time to consider “what is on the line” when it comes to our interactions with others. Let’s understand that every person must one day stand before God, and, out of love and concern, boldly share the truth that can set them free. I’m Matt Osborne, and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank you for the forgiveness I have in Christ. Please help me boldly proclaim the gospel out of love and concern for my fellow humans. I pray that You would work through my efforts to bring many people to salvation. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.
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