Here at Mockingbird we talk a lot about Law & Gospel, death & resurrection, about how God is constantly putting to death and raising to new life, how He is active in and through suffering and grace.
I was reminded once more of the power and truth of this paradigm by a story in today’s NYTimes about Chris Andersen, the 6-10, tatted-up, faux-hawked reserve for the Denver Nuggets, who are currently battling the Los Angeles Lakers for a spot in the NBA finals (that’s basketball, in case you’re not sure:)
Andersen had a very troubled childhood, including a four-year stint in a home for boys. All the suffering eventually took its toll, expressing itself in broken relationships and, eventually, drug use that led to a two-year suspension from the NBA. That might have been the end for Andersen, but a (Christ-like) friend stepped in, inviting Andersen to live with him, his wife and children, and supporting Andersen through rehab and counseling.
Looking back, Andersen (who has become something of a fan favorite, even role model) said the following:
“If it wasn’t for what led to that suspension, and me having to go through the suspension, and then me rebuilding my life, I wouldn’t be in the position that I’m in right now.”
Sounds like good news for sufferers.
For we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose… (Romans 8.28)
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COMMENTS
3 responses to “Birdman Crashes… and Takes Flight”
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I read this article today as well, and enjoyed it. I’m always blown away by people that can open their homes up and let people in – amazing. E.G. Love bears a cost.
Don’t know if I’d say the story is good news for sufferers around Birdman’s newfound ressurected glory – particularly b/c ‘glory’ is far from assured (and my prosperity gospel warning lights go haywire).
Best news we have is Jesus is the ultimate version of the family that took him in when he was down on his luck – for this sufferer – that’s the ultimate goods news – that more than coming home to ‘Denver’ we’ve got a Savior that pursues us and has already prepared a place for us.
T –
I totally hear what you're saying, but in the article, the vibe I get from Andersen is thankfulness and humility, not glory & victory. He seems to have a good handle on his shortcomings, and is just grateful to be doing what he's doing…
After last night, the Birdman’s glory is a little less anyhow. The Lakers are going to the finals instead of Birdman’s Nuggets. That’s all to say that it is indeed powerful when someone invests in you, when they stand with you through your darkest hour. I think it is the definition of pastoral ministry. It’s about being present with the person in their suffering knowing you can’t fix them or offer some program that is going to solve their problems; it’s walking with them through the valley of the shadow of death. Afterall, “compassion” literally means “to suffer with”.
Thanks RJ.