Some of us work all our lives to realize a dream that may not even be our own. Most college athletes would never walk away from an entire year of eligibility and a chance to win a division title. Brandon Sherrod chose to do so, proving that some dreams do not match up with what the world thinks is important. According to ESPN.com, Sherrod earned a starting spot on the men’s basketball team and was about to begin his junior year of college. With a 19-14 record last season, the school was poised to compete against Harvard for the Ivy League title this season. Sherrod also secured a spot with an elite singing group, the Whiffenpoofs, whose singing engagements next year include stops on each continent (except Antarctica). Sherrod was forced to choose between singing and college basketball. Giving up a chance to compete for a school title and a berth into the NCAA tournament seems crazy, right? Following such a strange path was a tremendous sacrifice. It not only affected Brandon and his family but also the team, the coaches, their strategy, and potentially their chances to win. How do we know if he made the right choice?

God’s Dreams for Us

Having passion to pursue a dream is a beautiful thing! Dreamers inspire us, often times because they live differently, sometimes even heroically. Folks who realize a dream and achieve the impossible often transform our understanding of what is possible. But before a dream is realized, criticism often reigns down on the one making the seemingly foolish choices. God’s dreams for us often include the gifts, talents and interests God gave us. Frederick Beuchner once said,

“The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet” (Wishful Thinking: A Theological ABC).

Our dreams might include material success and notoriety. God’s dreams frequently look more like a world being changed for good. Discerning God’s call in our lives certainly isn’t easy, but we must be wise and not simply follow the path others would choose for us.

Question of the Day: What keeps you from dreaming bigger?

Focal Scriptures: Jeremiah 29:1-14; Mark 8:31-36; Romans 12:1-3

For a complete lesson on this topic visit LinC here!