Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) chases the ball after knocking it loose…(AP Photo/Brandon Dill)

I love the game of basketball! My favorite play is not the dunk or the three point shot. I love those, but my favorite play is the loose ball. That’s when the basketball is up for grabs to the player(s) who wants it the most. It’s intense! When the ball goes uncontrolled, even for a second, players go after it with a reckless abandon! They dive to the hardwood floor as if their life depended on securing the ball for their team. These players KNOW they are going to lose some skin on the play. They KNOW it’s going to hurt. They also KNOW it’s worth it. Games are decided by who’s willing to sell out, and get on the floor for the basketball.

I believe Jesus was teaching to live with a reckless abandon as we pursue Him and his kingdom. He said:

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field…Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.”  Mtt 13:44

The man in Jesus’ parable not only sold all that he had to get the treasure, he did it IN HIS JOY.  When we see what God is worth, we’ll GADLY give up everything else to obtain Him! The apostle Paul said:

“I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ…” Philippians 3:8

In one sense, I believe God wants me to live my life for Christ like it’s a loose ball play in basketball. All in. Not afraid to lose some skin, because He’s worth it! If basketball players are willing to sacrifice for the game they love, how much more should we be willing to gladly sacrifice for our Savior, Redeemer, and King!