Bobby Knight, Bill Parcells, Jesus- Not what you expect.

I once heard a comparison made between Bobby Knight and Bill Parcells. The comparison was that both were good because they never coached the way they were expected to. When a player did well, he was always expected to step up to the plate and "do more." However, when a player failed, that player often surprisingly, received encouragement. Now, looking at these two coaches, I question if there was ever an encouraging bone in their body. Still, if the professional commentary and observation is true, it would stand to reason why their players often respected them the ways that they have seemed to.

I think sometimes that God is this way. It amazes me how that God's standard is so high, that he calls us to constantly be growing, changing, and becoming more like Jesus. Jesus is an impossible standard to reach. And yet, God calls us to that standard none the less. We have been called to be better, love more, do greater things, and give of ourselves as Jesus did. Once we realize that we have arrived, we quickly learn just how far we have failed. James 4:17- Anyone, then, who knows the good he ought to do and doesn't do it, sins.

At the same time, isn't it amazing how God elevates the humble, redeems the sinner, and washes clean those who need washing? God's love is so broad, so big, so ultimate, that it is difficult to imagine where we would be if he were not willing to clean our wounds and forgive our transgressions. I John 1: ⁵This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. ⁶If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. ⁷But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. ⁸If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. ⁹If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. ¹⁰If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

This balance really is crucial. The whole idea that we are called to perfection, yet washed of our sins is a fascinating concept, worth our time, thoughts, and effort. Yes, it is good to know that we have such a loving God that will hold our feet to the fire, that we might be the very best we can be; while at the same time offering us relief when we realize our faults and fail him.