HELP EACH OTHER SUCCEED

Related Scripture:

“Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.”

Ecclesiastes 4: 9-10

Most games and matches are officiated by a crew of officials.  Each person in that crew has specific responsibilities, and good mechanics help them work together effectively.  Sometimes, one official needs to help another one because they have a better view of the play. The checked swing call in baseball is a great example—the plate umpire checks with the proper base umpire to verify whether the batter swung or not.

King Solomon’s fundamental goal in the related scripture from Ecclesiastes was to find ways to help people succeed.  That is a goal that all officials need to pursue.  Officials need to have successful experiences in their officiating, or they won’t stay with it.  Officials should help one another develop their skills through cooperative efforts.  When we become afraid that the development of other officials will cut down our assignments, we are hurting the officiating industry – and fostering self-centeredness within us. 

Sometimes things that happen in our lives outside of officiating keep us from being successful on the field or court.  Sports officials live in two worlds: the world of officiating and the world outside of officiating.  That sounds like a saying from Captain Obvious, but it is significant.  Over the years, I have ridden to games with officials who have just been served with divorce papers, who have just been laid off from their jobs, and who were facing legal problems or issues with their health.  A network of Christian officials can become a spiritual support system for each other.  Our sensitivity to the needs of other people and a desire to help them sends a strong message about Christ being in our lives.

Questions to Ponder:

What can you do to enhance your relationship with other officials you work with?

Do you make the effort to support other officials who may have difficulties inside or outside the officiating world?

Ralph Swearngin - Former GHSA Executive Director and FCO Advisory Board Member