“Excuse Me? It cost how much? No, thank you!” This was my response when someone told me the price for a basketball court. It was a lot of money. How can concrete and metal be so expensive? While I was certain the students would have fun playing basketball, I seriously doubted any of them would make a career playing basketball. Why would you want to make a financial investment in a basketball court? I voted to use this amount of money to pay for salries, operational costs, unexpected expenses, etc. However, a couple of men did not listen to me as they provided and designated the money to build a covered basketball court! Since it rains six months during the year, a covered basketball court was necessary. So our worker men began to build the basketball court. Even as it was being built, I questioned the investment of the money.
Four years! For four years, I have watched the basketball court be used every single day. During the rain, the students continue to play basketball, volleyball, and soccer. I have watched giggly girls dressed in beautiful dresses walk down the court for their Quinceañera party. I have watched people gather for Children’s Church— Pastors Conference—Birthday Parties—Basketball Games–Block Parties—Youth Camps—Baptisms—Christmas Programs.—Graduation—The court has been used to host so many events.
Hundreds of people sat and stood on the basketball court as they remembered and honored the life of Soy. They saw us worship as we stood firm on the hope in Jesus Christ.
Seventeen seniors walked across the stage on the basketball court to receive their high school diploma. Hundreds of people heard about Jesus!
This week, there were almost 700 people who came to listen to a Christmas program, eat a special Christmas meal, and receive a gift. However, those 700 people were reminded about the real reason for Christmas. They were told about the salvation found only through Jesus Christ.
I think it is safe to say that I was 100% wrong about not needing a basketball court!
We pray there are thousands more who stand on the basketball court and hear about Jesus!
Christmas Dinner #3: 230 people gathered to celebrate Christmas on the basketball court.
Shining Light Abroad Ministries 