The World Cup

Sitting here now I cannot tell you, without googling, where the last World Cup was held or who won. And, if I'm being honest, I was mostly indifferent to the World Cup being held in this hemisphere until a few days ago.

I did make a point to watch the match between the USA and Paraguay and of course I was delighted to see the USA win. I have since watched other matches and I find that the action off the field is as interesting as the action on the field.

I have been aware for some time that soccer is way more popular overseas than in the US, but seeing the fever pitch of enthusiasm on display has been eye-opening! I have watch several matches and I love how all the fans count down to the opening of play. I love when the cameras pan the audiences dressed in their teams' colors and waving their countries' flags and cheering with unbridled enthusiasm!

Social media has certainly done its part to document the action off the field. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of entertaining posts by foreign friends sharing their first time experiences in the US. It is so gratifying to see so many visitors enjoying our country!

The World Cup has fallen into my lap as an unexpected blessing. Individuals from around the world meeting to share a common interest and being good to each other! The best of human nature is on display.

"Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?"

Jesus replied: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all

your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.

And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and

Prophets hang on these two commandments."

Matthew 22:36-40 (NIV)