It’s one thing to lose 21 straight games, but it’s another to lose 21 straight to start the season. The Baltimore Orioles did just that to open the three weeks in the 1988 season. They were outscored 129-44 during the streak that cost manager Cal Ripken Sr. his job. Most coaches know the feeling of hopelessness when experiencing a losing streak. Whether it’s the look of frustration or confusion on the faces of their players or fans, they can’t wait to solve the problem. It keeps coaches up late at night, searching for the one thing they can do to fix the problem and provide hope for their team.

Luke 7 – Despair Turned to Hope

Luke 7 opens with two stories that show how despair can be turned into hope. One story concerns a centurion’s servant near death, followed by another about a Jewish widow’s son who dies. Both stories demonstrate the power of hope. Two elements in these stories help us understand that hope is both a desire for something and the anticipation of it happening.

One of the major themes of Luke’s Gospel is Jesus came to save all people from their sins, not just Jews. The centurion man in the first story is Gentile, but Jesus affirms this man’s faith and heals his servant. Jesus showed compassion for both Jews and Gentiles and provided hope in God’s love for all mankind. Both stories highlight the desperation each family felt. Without hope, despair will often overwhelm a team’s attitude, resulting in a season collapsing under the weight of difficulties.

 The Kingdom Coach and Athlete have hope tied to confidence in God’s power and goodness. Their faith is built by reading God’s written Word and knowing He has come to save all people from their sins, not just the Jews.

Journaling helps you understand and respond to the Bible. As you journal, use the acronym HEAR to Highlight, Explain, Apply, and Respond to what you have read in the reading plan.

Bible Memory Verse – “The one who listens to you listens to Me, and the one who rejects you rejects Me. And he who rejects Me rejects the One who sent Me.” Luke 10:16 LSB

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