Raising the barn
“Teamwork is the key to victory….and there’s no “I” in the word team,” emphasized the coach. Anyone who’s competed athletically has heard these quotes before. We all are on teams. Small teams. Big teams. Teams at work. The team called family. Teams at church. The teams in the dorm.
Teams are a part of life. And teams usually produce great results.
Joseph Mlaker tells the story about Mr. Ostry’s barn floor being under twenty-nine inches of water because of a rising creek. The Bruno, Nebraska farmer invited a few friends to a barn raising. He needed to move his entire 17,000-pound barn to a new foundation more than 143 feet away. His son Mike devised a lattice work of steel tubing, and nailed, bolted and welded it on the inside and the outside of the barn. Hundreds of handles were attached. After a practice lift, 344 volunteers slowly walked the barn up the slight incline, each supporting less than fifty pounds. In just three minutes, the barn was on its new foundation. The team off 344 accomplished what one person could not.
Truth is, a team can accomplish great things when it works together. Of course, being on a team doesn’t necessarily make someone a team player. Good team players understand their role, allow others to play their role, and don't care who gets credit.
Step back and think of the team “rosters” you are on today. Are you a good team player with your family, with your friends, at your church? If you’re not encouraged by what you see, pray for an attitude of respect and a heart that plays for the team. Let the Lord be your coach in every situation and be sure your teammates help you carry the load as you help them bear their burden. Scripture says in Psalm 13:1, “how good it is for brothers to dwell together in unity.” Love and respect your teammates and enjoy the “good” that comes from being a true team player.
After all, barns, like life’s burdens, can sure seem heavy when you’re carrying them by yourself.
Joey Staples ©
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