The Super Bowl is not in the books yet but it has generated lots of excitement and hopefully it will be a great game to watch. Many of you are acquainted with football great Jerry Rice but here is an interesting side note to his story.
Jerry Rice was the longtime star for the San Francisco 49ers, inducted into the football hall of fame in 2010 he is considered one of the greatest receivers in the history of football; he played for the 49ers for 15 years, 1985 to 2000.
The most points ever scored in a single Super Bowl is held by RB Roger Craig (XIX), WR Jerry Rice (XXIV and XXIX), RB Ricky Watters (XXIX) and RB Terrell Davis (XXXII).
Being a famous athlete, you would think he came from some legendary college team but he didn’t.
He played for Mississippi Valley State University, in Itta Bena, Mississippi, a virtual unknown town of 2,208 people (according to 2000 census).
He was once asked, “Why did you attend a small, obscure university like Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi?” Rice responded, “Out of all the big-time schools (such as UCLA) to recruit me, MVSU was the only school to come to my house and give me a personal visit.” The big-time schools recruited through cards, letters, and advertisements, but only one came to meet him and show Rice and his family personal attention.
What is the point of this story?
It makes a difference in this world to meet people eye to eye and personally invite them to church. As Jesus passed along the Sea of Galilee, the scriptures say, he saw Simon and his brother casting their fishing nets into the sea. He approached them and invited them to be a part. He went a little further and he saw two more brothers: James and John. He went up to them extending the same invitation and they followed.
It is the personal touch that attracts us to others. Cards and letters are a positive contact but they can only do so much. Millions of dollars spent on advertising is impressive, but it is also impersonal. The shake of a hand and a personal touch and smile make all the difference.
Over 90% of un-churched people say they would attend church if someone would just walk in with them!
When was the last time you walked into church with a friend you had invited?
Who do you want to reach for Christ? Do it with a personal touch. Personally invite that person, friend, or family member out for lunch, or to join you in church this Sunday. It will make all the difference.
Keep the Son in Your Eyes,
Mike James
