At Christmas time we all get Christmas letters where people talk about how “great” their year was and how their children are graduating at the top of their class and going to an Ivy League School. Seldom do we read about children who demonstrate character. Even more seldom do we read about the trials many families faced during a challenging year.
Recently, I witnessed a basketball team and a young boy modeling character. Cornerstone University, of Grand Rapids, Michigan, dedicated their 2010-2011 season to a young boy, Johnny Teis. Johnny was diagnosed with a life-altering, inoperable brain tumor. Johnny and his family were at the game to do the ceremonial opening tip. My daughter and I had the privilege of meeting Johnny. When I reached out to shake his hand, he reached out his hand with very little physical strength, but his heart had, and still has, the strength of a Lion.
Cornerstone University is ranked number 3 in the NAIA Division 2. As an alumnus, I take pride in watching their success on the court. However, what makes me more proud is their character off the court as well. I would love to see the Golden Eagles win another national title (their first was in 1999). I have actually contemplated attending the national tournament in Branson, Missouri this year. Yet, what I will remember about this season is their character.
During the ceremonial opening tip, Johnny’s family had pushed him in his wheelchair to the middle of the court with the Cornerstone basketball team following him. The crowd, all wearing green t-shirts that said “Johnny’s Army”, gave him a standing ovation, as did the whole Indiana Tech team, whom at that point had also made their way to mid-court to honor and cheer for Johnny. His brother tossed the ball up into the air as the audience applauded, not only Johnny, but also his family for their courage.
Cornerstone University and the Teis family modeled for us an important truth. Life is so much more than basketball, the final score of the game or who wins the championship. Life is about loving God and loving and serving others. It does not mean life is fair.
My wife, Becky, is a cancer survivor, which is why I have such a passion for stories like this. I know we are not supposed to question God when things like this happen. Yet, over two-thirds of the Psalms in the Bible are laments, people who are upset with the circumstances they are put in, asking God where He is. In the end, though, they remember who He is and praise Him. My heart aches for the Teis family and what they are going through. Yet I praise God for their testimony and character which has touched the lives of people like Dick Vitale, who called Johnny’s house and spoke of him during the Wisconsin/Ohio State basketball game last weekend, and Jim Tressel.
I thank God for Cornerstone University’s basketball team and their testimony. I really hope they win at nationals this year. Still, one day all the trophies will be old and in a dumpster. Yet the character of their team and a family who has shown courage during the most difficult of times is something that will last for eternity. Please pray for the Teis family. God Bless!
If anyone is interested in donating money to a fund going toward medical expenses for the Teis family, you may donate to the following:
Arvest Bank
506 First Ave. SE
Gravette AR 72736
c/o Johnny Teis Contribution Fund.
Jon, what a beautiful post. I know the Teis family and agree with you about their display of character. They inspire me and are definitely making an eternal impact. Four and one half years ago, my dear friend was murdered. We know who did it, but the police don't have the last bit of info to make an arrest. (www.whokilledrenee.com) In the meantime, he continues to raise their children, in an environment built on lies and deceit. I don't understand in my finite mind why this type of suffering is allowed here on this earth, but trust in the One who is in control of it all, and know that He will use it all for His good. God Bless.
ReplyDeleteIt has indeed been an honor and thrill to watch the strength and grace of the Teis family during this excrutiatingly painful time. Our prayers are with Johnny, his siblings, his parents, grandparents, and extended family. Winning basketball games is fun and good, but some things transcend basketball. According to all the doctors tell us, Johnny will soon be in the presence of our Lord. On that day, I will weep and mourn.
ReplyDeleteMay God bless the Teis family, the CU family, and all others touched by the story of Johnny Teis.
Andy Smith