To Live and Work Like Zion Plays!

College basketball has missed Duke’s Zion Williamson but last night he reminded basketball fans why he’s one of the most special players to ever play college basketball. After recovering from a knee injury, he returned to the floor and went 13 for 13 from the field, scoring 29 points and grabbing 14 rebounds! 

He is dedicated to his craft and exceeds his own expectations. For all you Duke haters you have to admit that a player like Zion doesn't come along very often. The following are the qualities that jumped out to me the most and that we can all embrace:

• He is committed to his "craft". With all of his natural ability he could "coast" but does not. 
• He's a clear difference maker as he impacts every aspect of the game. His presence is felt when he’s on the floor and it’s missed when he’s on the bench.
• He brings energy, passion, and intensity - the whole atmosphere of the "game" changes because of it.
• He makes his teammates better and they’re able to thrive because of him. He raises the bar for what Duke is capable of accomplishing.
• He could have shut it down and prepared for the NBA, but instead, he keeps playing because of his commitment to Duke and his teammates.
• He actually enjoys basketball and lets it show by smiling and cheering.
• He gives his all, fights for the ball, and puts himself in the right position for rebounds and alley-oops.

These are all respectable skills and traits any coach would love to have his player represent, but beyond the court, what if we actually lived our lives in a similar way?

At work, in our communities, and in our families are we a difference maker? Are we making an impact on others? Are the love and light of Christ shining through us as it says in Matthew 5:16

"Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.”