When February 4, 2018, came to a close, Nick Foles was on top of the world. He wasn’t supposed to be here, standing before a worldwide audience accepting the Most Valuable Player of the Super Bowl. Foles led his Philadelphia Eagles to what most believed was an upset over the powerhouse New England Patriots.
Foles was the backup to a hurt Carson Wentz.
The next year, Foles went back to the bench and watched Wentz take the snaps.
Some believed life cheated Foles. He performed at a high level, and some expected him to be the starter the next year. He wasn’t.
How did he see it? In a book written that year, Foles explained.
Some people might think I deserve a better deal, but it’s not about what I deserve. It’s never been about that. The truth is, I’ve already been given far more than I deserve–a wonderful family; a job I love; grace and forgiveness; great friends, coaches and teammates. Everything I have is a gift from God, and I’m thankful for all of it. I am where I am now because of God’s grace, and I’ll continue to follow wherever he leads.
Jesus has different values from the world. The culture cherishes top dogs but overlooks the second fiddles. Jesus doesn’t. He elevates them.
“So the last will be first, and the first will be last.” (Matthew 20:16)
In the Master’s sight, it is not the name at the top of the letterhead but the one serving on his knees.
Do not grow discouraged, thinking no one cares when you serve without recognition. Jesus does.
Play a backup role and let the Master reward you.
-Robert G. Taylor-
