You know, Lord, that a coach gets excited when he has a winning year
and all his starters are coming back for another season.
We’ve had a winning year, Lord.
And all our starters are back.
In our excitement about the new season that begins today,
we pause for just a minute, Lord,
to thank You for the winning days just past.
Thank You for giving us team players who seldom feel the need
to hotdog it, or to hog the ball.
Thank You for players who pull together for the good of our city
instead of showboating and using their positions to seek
personal gain or glory.
In a time when scandal seems to be a synonym for public office,
we’re grateful, Lord, that You have given us a team of
decent folks whose conduct both on the court and off is
above reproach.
The whistle is about to blow, Lord. The game is about to resume.
With all our starters in place, we look forward to a
super season. Maybe the best we’ve ever had.
Bless our team, Lord, with health and strength to play
the positions they assume today.
Fill them with energy and enthusiasm so that playing
the game can be fun.
And give them the grace to hang tough when it isn’t.
Watch over our city, Lord, and for the good of us all, lead those who lead us.
We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.