Dear Rose Park,
For the past few weeks Simon has been participating in the “Little Kickers” soccer clinic through the Holland Recreation Department. Every Saturday at 11:00am about fifteen 3-5 year-old boys and girls and their families all meet at Pine Ridge Elementary School on the south side of town to practice some drills, learn a few new skills, and in general run off some energy. Simon has been having so much fun, but there’s just one thing that’s been eluding his grasp: he hasn’t won kicker of the day yet.
At the end of each ‘practice’ the coaches circle up all the boys and girls to do a team cheer and then to hand out the coveted prize of Kicker of the Day. They usually hand out four or five of these awards per week to make sure all the little kickers will win one at some point. Our good friend Emma Welsch has deservedly won this prize and now Simon is chasing the large star with the bedazzled words “Kicker of the Day” that is so beloved by all the boys and girls. I know it might sound silly, but to Simon this is a big deal. Each week he waits with bated breath as they call out names and hand out stars. He hasn’t won it yet, but each time we get in the car after practice he says, “maybe next week Mom and Dad.”
It’s nice to be noticed and appreciated, isn’t it? Even for a three year-old boy it’s nice to feel special, valued, and loved. Whether it’s devoting your time to a charity or program, keeping your commitment to the church, faithfully caring for your spouse or parent, or quietly serving behind the scenes it’s nice to feel noticed and appreciated. So, who is it in your life that could use some appreciation? Who needs a pat on their back to recognize their efforts? Who might benefit from knowing that you see them, appreciate them, and are thankful for them?
This Sunday we’re going to celebrate, notice, and recognize our high school graduates. We’re going to cheer them on, pat them on the back, and wish them well as they transition to a new chapter in life. I hope you can make it to worship this Sunday to celebrate with us and hopefully Simon has a reason to celebrate too!
Grace & Peace,
Pastor Mark