Character Matters
Sometimes we get caught looking at whether the job gets done and we don’t always look at the attitude and character of those working. I think good character changes both the attitude and productivity of the one working and also gives a positive view on the work that is done. I sometimes watch clips of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Many of the clips are underwhelming compared to the men’s version, but that is ok... they are not the same. What I have noticed plaguing the WNBA the last couple of years is the terrible play calling by the refs, poor oversight over the league, and awful sportsmanship, or should I say awful sportswomanship. There are some players that are fun to watch, but there seem to be teams that are favored and teams that become the scape goats. There was good attendance through the playoffs until the Indiana Fever got knocked off. Now, as they approach the big playoff, the attendance is very low. I’m thinking most high school games have a better draw on a regular game. Why can’t the WNBA get anyone to cheer on the finals? They don’t trust the winner to necessarily be the best players. People are tired of seeing dirty plays winning over good talent. The players that most people wanted to see, because they play hard and expect to receive the fruit of that labor - playoffs, didn't make it. Even with the tickets dropping to an incredibly low price, people still aren’t buying them. When there are more people at a playoff game than at the finals, there is a major problem. Instead of being honest about the referee calling and lack of justice with each dirty play, and trying to protect the few players that are really drawing in the fans, the response is either one of blaming or thinking that maybe things will eventually work themselves out. In our Christian walk, our character matters. If we say one thing and do another, people aren’t interested. If we regularly attend church, but do not live a particularly Christian life, people aren’t going to be attracted. If we make excuses for why people aren’t filling the pews, instead of seeking the real issues, things will likely not improve. Character matters. Father, we do want to see Your house filled with seekers and worshipers. Show us how we might serve others. Amen