An end of the year article by Phyllis Tickle (Emergent Village) urged readers to “join the sacred game.” Tickle was asking for reader feedback, but the phrase gave me pause. Authors have described the Christian life of interaction with God, other Christians, and the larger world in various ways, but I like this picture: join the sacred game.
Not in the sense of something trivial and meaningless–designed only for enjoyment.
Not in the sense of a competition where only a few select participants can win.
Not in the sense of mere play or recreation.
Not in the sense of amusement–either for spectators or participants.
Not in the sense of “sport”.
Not as a contest with scores and indications of superiority or success.
Rather, in the sense of participating in a life of courage and endurance, developing the life skills necessary, living according to the model of Christ who demonstrated for us the way life is to be lived in service, and promised to us the overflowing life.
Games are a lot more fun when one develops the basic skills necessary for the game, when one enjoys participating, and when one shares in the spirit and character of the undertaking. You can undoubtedly think of more descriptions. Let me encourage you, regardless of your life circumstance to “join the sacred game.” If you have been a Christian for years, pray that you can find renewal and hope. If you are just starting your Christian walk, pray that God will bless you with skills and endurance. If you are just wondering about this thing called Christianity, let me encourage you to “join the sacred game.”