Shine for Jesus

Recently I came across the testimony of a great footballer of our time, Kaka. A Brazilian play maker who plays professionally for AC Milan in Italy was named the World Player of the Year by FIFA on 17th December 2007. There is an amazing testimony about this man and how he honor God in his job. His faith is so much a part of him, and he carries it so naturally that the secular press, whenever writing about him, almost without fail mentions that he is a "devout Christian".

This what Kaka or his fullname Ricardo Izecson dos Santos Leite said in an interview with Reuters after he receive the Best Player award:

"Tonight is really special for me," said Kaka, who helped Milan to their seventh European Cup title in May and was also inspirational in Sunday's 4-2 Club World Cup final victory over Argentina's Boca Juniors. "When I was young I dreamed of playing for Sao Paulo and playing just one game for the national team. That was it...but the Bible says God gives us more than we ask for and that is what has happened in my life."

Kaka defies the model of a modern footballer. The 26 year old chooses to let his football make the headlines, not for his own glory but for the name of the Lord to be lifted up. Kaka, a devout Christian, largely avoids celebrity parties and does not worry too much about his image, expressing himself on the pitch with mesmeric skill and driving runs. I am sure if you have watch the movie Goal, you will get a picture how is the life of professional football players.

He glorified God in the even when he achieve the highest achievement a footballer can achieve in his career. He does not let success go to his head or subscribed to the hedonism that many famous players are notorious for.

I like the other statement that he made to an Italian press. Here is what reported by the press: "Kaka says life as an evangelical pastor appeals to him after football. But football is his calling now."

Proverbs 3:1-6 says: "My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, For they will prolong your life many years and bring you prosperity.Let love and faithfulness never leave you; Bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

What an amazing testimony. Do we see our job as our calling? I believe God has placed us in strategic places to bring glory and honor to His name.

Be blessed and have a great weekend.