There’s something happening on the big stage, the big arenas, right now. I never really knew about it as a young person. Well, I knew football. But it was a different game. Not until I was a little older, then I learned there are two football sports! Thank you for this opportunity to join you for today’s Weekly encouragement! I am honored for this opportunity. I bet you know this is about the soccer World Cup happening around the United States. Even close to me. I’ve never studied soccer much, but I’m learning about some of the people who make up the sport. I think many of them are presenting their faith above their talent. I’m encouraged by these young people, like Captain America. What a fun name to hold! And he demonstrates a faith in Jesus that surpasses his age. A 27 year old who has lived and labored his entire life to be part of the World Cup. Things didn’t happen like he expected, even prayed for and hoped for. You maybe know the story? He experienced a calf injury that put him on the sidelines right at the start of this famous World Cup competition. He responded differently than many of us would. Instead of looking at all he’s done to achieve this highlight in life of competing in the World Cup, he surrendered his anger and instead said, “I trust in God.” The competitions all around the United States are privileged to see several World Cup, world class participants mark their win with a simple but powerful gesture. They take their (imaginary) crown from their head and place them on the ground saying with this act that “The King Is Coming!” It’s a global movement being proclaimed at this Soccer World Cup competition all across this 250 year old celebratory nation of the United States. I think it’s meant to be an example for our celebration throughout our special land we love. I have to think of it in this way, sometimes, that I am grateful to be an American, born in America, as I know fellow persons who use wheelchairs around the world are suffering great difficulties I couldn’t imagine because there is very much less available to them in parts of the world that struggle. I’m grateful for my place here, in America, and I’m hopeful I can lay my crown before the Lord in like manner as these young, very young and very responsible athletes have done. Being more drawn by the fame of the Lord Jesus than by their own top talent in the world type of fame. I pray they hold this honor throughout their lives. Knowing it is far better than the glory of this world. Please remember I’m praying for you, too, to honor the Lord above every earthly opportunity, as I hope to do, myself. I’m praying for you because I love you.