Lost the game but won the battle.

The basketball team of Beren Academy (an Orthodox Jewish High School), almost missed a semi-final tournament game because team members refused to play at the scheduled time—on the Sabbath.  The Academy asked for rescheduling, but the request was denied by the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools.  Yet the players were not willing to compromise, and they stayed faithful to the Sabbath. Beren senior, Isaac Mirwis, said, “it’s tradition, it’s principle, and we stick true to our principles and that’s what makes an identity.  God doesn’t take a week off from us, so we can’t take a week off from God” (Associated Press, February 28, 2012).

Two days later, a Texas judge ordered the game rescheduled to avoid the Sabbath conflict. Beren Academy won the game (Foxnews.com, March 1, 2012).  They went on to play in the championship game, which they lost 46-42.  

The team set a fine example of standing strong in the day of adversity (Proverbs 24:10) and not compromising God’s Sabbath.  God promised to be our Helper in time of need (Hebrews 13:5-6).  God does not change (Malachi 3:6), and He still defends those who obey His commandments (Joshua 1:7-9).

We are admonished to pray for those in authority so we may live a quiet and peaceful life (1 Timothy 2:1-2).  In this case, a “ruler over them” (a judge), enabled the Beren team to keep the Sabbath and still play ball!  God keeps His promises! 

For more information on the Sabbath Day, request our free booklet, Which Day Is the Christian Sabbath?