Team

Once you experience “teamwork” it is hard to imagine ever achieving great things without “team” being an integral part of success.  There were lots of examples in my journey, yet the one that always stands out was a forgettable race on the Willamette River in Oregon.  It was a crisp, sunny morning.  We, nine of us, were young, full of hope, and na?ve.  We were the number one light weight crew for the university.  Our cox kept reminding us of our potential, how much of it was yet to be unleashed, and what we would experience when it was.  I had no idea of what would happen once the gun sounded to start the race.
 
In hindsight, especially decades later, I have no idea who were racing against.  I recall winning but even before we crossed the finish line the feeling of being a team united in purpose, flow, and motion was extraordinary.  Since then there have been moments, but this was the first.  I was part of something beyond and greater than my self.  I was connected, emotionally, physically, and with my soul to a community.  We were moving as one!  It was as if we were one.  The light, sounds, and textures of the moment blurred into a single mysterious connection that feels now like blurring colors.  I knew I now knew what “team” was and is.
 
There are values and priorities you and I hold in common.  If we want to really see their potential we will join our efforts together.  It doesn’t always have to be physically linked, truth transcends physical proximity.  Jesus knew this when he invited those who shared his values and priorities to “live in me.  Make your home in me just as I do in you.  In the same way that a branch can't bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can't bear fruit unless you are joined with me.”  (John 15.4) 
 
The Willamette was a long time ago.  Today is a new day.  The opportunity then and now is simple; team.