OBSERVATION: Sport, in particular soccer, can do a lot to unite a nation. Iraq have just qualified for the Asian Cup final. This is an incredible feat! Their nation is an absolute mess. Yet they convincingly beat the Socceroos, Vietnam and have now just beaten South Korea on penalties. In the midst of a tragic situation, there has been great joy and unity in celebrating the spoils of soccer victory amongst broken Iraqis. Although, celebrations haven't been without tragedy - a number of people have died from falling bullets (too trigger happy in firing guns into the air... the bullet has got to come down somewhere!) - plus there were two suicide bombers who targeted celebrations killing more than 50 people and injuring many more.

But seeing how much the success of the Iraqi football team means to the citizens of the Iraq speaks volumes for the game, and for the power of sport to unite. Perhaps the unity might only be short-lived, and may not last long after the final whistle is blown, but isn't it at least a welcome relief from the daily strife and struggle? What do you think? Can sport, especially football, unite a country? (from smh)

Yes. I think it can. But it can only ever be short lived. God is the only one that can bring real unity and real change. Sport might be a good tool for humanity - but Jesus is the one that can bring two warring parties together. In Jesus Jew and Gentile can together be reconciled to God. See Ephesians 2:11-22

PRAYER:

• Pray for Iraq. Pray that the Nation would be gripped by Jesus. Not the American Jesus - but the Jesus of Ephesians 2.
• Thank God for ccecyouth. Kicked off well.
• Jazz night. Tomorrow. Going to be fun. Good bridge-builder.