Happy May the 4th be with you Day.  I apologize as I do not know the correct verbiage to properly acknowledge this "holiday."  However, I do love Star Wars.  I think my love of the movie stems from the fact I was born the year it came out, and my big brother has been a fan since its debut.  Also, when I was in college I took a world religion course and studied how the characters and themes of Star Wars relate to religion.  It's a classic example of good vs. evil.  Dark vs. light.  The Force was compared to the Holy Spirit.  The clothing of the good guys was a soft material, whereas the bad guys wore dark or armor-like apparel.   Princess Leia's character and clothing were derived from Vestal Virgins in early Roman history as they were the only women in society who had authority or power.   As I am getting to the end of this paragraph I am realizing this has no point other than to share some useless information with you.  My brain is filled with it.

My intention of writing this morning is to share a story of hope in a world that seems to be overcome with darkness.  I have been noticing that more and more professional athletes are giving glory to God for their accomplishments.  Scottie Scheffler won the Masters this year.  In his post-round interview, he gave all praise to God.  He even talked about how he and his friends prayed together before his round.  I caught the end of an NBA game and saw a group of players from both teams in the background of the interview kneeling with arms draped over each other's shoulders in prayer.  I see many athletes drawing crosses in eye black on their faces for their games.  Some athletes are even using black stickers under their eyes with scripture verses on them.  It is such a great sign of hope. 

However,  the most recent example I have seen will probably not make the news. But, that is not what it is about.  My son and his baseball team are reflecting God's light in amazing ways.  They pray before and after the game regardless of the outcome.  Many go to church together.  They have gone straight from a game to bible study.  They do not respond if the other team is provoking them. They even built a giant cross and put it on a hillside so they could see it from home plate.  They are walking it out humbly letting their actions speak for their character and beliefs.  

I wanted to share this to give you hope.  Hope in our world.  Hope in our youth.  In a place where negativity dominates the headlines, look for the light shining through the cracks of our broken world.  This was never meant to be a permanent home for us.  Our home is beyond the thin veil that separates us from Heaven.  Dare to hope in God's promises and the actions of some earthly angels in uniforms and cleats.

"But those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."  Isaiah 40:31

FAITH over fear,

Sara