As fall rolls around, millions of Americans are gearing up for fantasy football season. Yes, you heard that right. Throw away the pumpkin spice lattes and give men, women, young and old a stat sheet full of information for their upcoming fantasy football season. There is always an excitement and camaraderie of fantasy leagues that brings people together, strengthening friendships and community.
This is part of the many reasons that ministers should be participating in fantasy football. It presents such a unique opportunity to build relationships, have fun, and reach out to others in their congregation and community. Here are some more reasons why ministers should consider joining a fantasy league.
Bond with Church Members. What better way for a minister to connect with church members than participating in a fantasy league together? Cheering on your team together each Sunday and trash talking in your league’s group chat helps form deeper friendships rooted in shared interests. It gives ministers a fun way to interact with church members outside of formal ministry environments and settings.- Reach out to Non-Christians. Most fantasy leagues include people from all different backgrounds, including those who may never set foot in a church. By joining a fantasy league, pastors can develop new relationships and minister to people they otherwise may never meet. Pastors can use this as an opportunity to meet new people and model Christlike sportsmanship and graciousness to others who don’t go to Church or believe in God.
- Proves a Healthy Outlet. Ministers need non-Church stuff to do. Burnout is real and it does happen. Even though you are using fantasy football for ministry purposes, it also gives ministers a healthy outlet. IT fuels a person’s competitive drive and desire to win. As long as the competition stays friendly and fun, fantasy football provides a positive and healthy outlet.
- New Ministry Opportunities Open Up. When pastors broaden their connections with church members and community through fantasy football, new doors for ministry open as well. Pastors may get the chance to pray for, counsel, or assist others as new needs arise during the fantasy season. And these fantasy football friends can become future volunteers, Bible study members, or ministry partners.
- Keeps Ministers Current. Football in America is widely popular. By participating in fantasy leagues, ministers not only familiarize themselves more with the NFL and team stats, it enables them to better relate with the average person. Not only that but you can also find ways to incorporate what you are learning and doing into your preaching or teaching. At the very least, it will grab people’s attention when you are sharing.
- It’s fun! Ministry is hard work and it often carries heavy burdens and responsibilities. Playing fantasy football provides minister an enjoyable distraction and outlet from the daily stress of ministry life. Something about tracking stats, analyzing matchups, and cheering on your fantasy team gives ministers a mental breather and break. This can help prevent burnout for pastors who need moments of lighter connection.
Conclusion
Playing fantasy football is a great ministry opportunity for many pastors and ministers. It can lead to great experiences and conversations that can ultimately produce abundant fruit. Prayerfully consider how this could be an opportunity for you to connect with people and help lead them towards Christ, rather than away from it.
Before you finish reading this post, write down a quick action plan. How can you get involved in fantasy football this season? Share them below or on social media.
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