Quote

I dared…words spoken by many but realised by few.
Ashton E. Silver

Real Life

Jordan Mailata is a 6 foot 8 Samoan who grew up in Sydney, Australia. As a talented sportsman it soon looked like rugby league would provide opportunities for him.

After a strong season in the South Sydney Rabbitohs Under 20’s, Mailata was hopeful he would be able to secure an ARL contract. Unfortunately, he was only offered a reserve grade contract. At that time Mailata’s agent made him aware of a new programme that provided a pathway for overseas athletes to try to make it into the NFL. Although Mailata had never played any American football and had only watched a handful of games, he agreed to give it a shot. He flew to America, was accepted and took part in the three-month programme.

During the programme, Mailata achieved impressive results and just prior to the NFL draft, there were six different franchises interested in him. On day 3 of the draft he was signed to the Philadelphia Eagles. Against all odds Mailata had made it into the NFL. He went on to establish himself in the league and this year he played in the Superbowl.

To try something new is to take a risk, and to take a risk means there is the possibility of failure. Mailata knew that he had never played a minute of American football and he knew that no one in that position had ever made it into the NFL, but he also knew that his size and skills were the perfect fit for the game. He knew there was risk, but he also recognized there was opportunity.

When we are faced with opportunity and risk, we need to wisely weigh up the situation, not cowering to fear but not being foolish either. There are times when God calls us to take a brave step into the unknown, to push our boundaries and to go into new territory (Isaiah 54:2). We shouldn’t let fear of failure hold us back and rob us of an amazing opportunity.

Bible Verses

Enlarge the place of your tent, and let the curtains of your habitations be stretched out; do not hold back; lengthen your cords and strengthen your stakes.

Isaiah 54:2

Prayer

Lord thank You for the opportunities that will come my way to try new things and be stretched. Help me to be wise and courageous, following Your lead.

Author: Sarah Auld   |   Content Editor: Phil Pawley