The Wild Soccer Bunch and the Christian Team: A Call to Faith and Perseverance

In the world of children's cinema, "The Wild Soccer Bunch" captured the hearts of many with its tale of a daring group of soccer-playing boys. Released in 2003, this German film follows the adventures of a team facing off against "Big Michi" and his squad for control of their beloved soccer field. The story is rich with themes of friendship, team spirit, and the will to win, encapsulated in the motto: "Everything is good, as long as you're wild. Everything is good—be dangerous and wild."

As a Christian congregation, we can draw parallels between the Wild Soccer Bunch and our own spiritual journey. We are a team united in a struggle, with a promised victory and a field to claim; a place of joy and fulfillment. Just as the soccer team faced challenges and needed to regain unity, so too must we navigate disagreements and disputes, striving to maintain our collective strength.

The Importance of the Trainer: Jesus Christ as Our Leader

The Wild Soccer Bunch's success hinged on their relationship with their trainer, a former professional player who guided them to victory. Similarly, in our Christian journey, we cannot achieve ultimate victory without our trainer and leader, Jesus Christ. Without Him, our efforts falter; with Him, we remain victorious and secure our spiritual field.

Jesus is not just a gentle figure but also a pioneer and perfecter of faith. He led His disciples with determination, caring for the disadvantaged while also being strict and uncompromising when it came to God's honor. His example challenges us to be both gentle and resolute, to value God's standards above societal approval.

Faith, Hope, and Certainty: The Essence of Christian Belief

The Bible defines faith not as mere opinion or assumption, but as confidence, hope, and certainty. It is a joy rooted in something beyond worldly reasons, a peace that transcends our earthly existence. As Christians, we look to a great cloud of witnesses, both in Scripture and throughout history, who have lived out this faith.

Hebrews 11:1-2 reminds us that faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. It is by this faith that our ancestors received God's approval. Hebrews 12:1-3 further exhorts us to throw off everything that hinders and run with perseverance, fixing our eyes on Jesus, who endured the cross for the joy set before Him.

The Challenge of Conformity and the Call to Be Wild and Dangerous

In today's world, there is a strong tendency toward conformity, where people often follow the majority without question. This is evident in the latest virus crisis, where fear and manipulation have led to a "Great Reset," aiming to reshape global society and economy. The crisis has taken on religious traits, with rules, punishments, and promises of a blessed life if the virus is defeated.

Amidst this, Christians are called to ask critical questions about obedience to God versus human authorities. We must not let fear or societal expectations deter us from honoring God and participating in communal worship. The measure must always remain God's Word, not the proclamations of state or church dignitaries.

Mahatma Gandhi once remarked, "I like your Christ, but I not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." Jesus endured opposition and mockery, remaining firm and wild in His mission, which ultimately cost Him His life but led to His vindication at God's right hand. As His followers, we are called to be wild and dangerous in our faith, adapting where God's Word demands it and resisting where it expects us to stand firm.

A Call to Perseverance and Faith

Dear confirmands and congregation, let us heed the exhortation from the Letter to the Hebrews: Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, not growing weary or losing heart. Our journey as a Christian team is one of perseverance, unity, and unwavering faith in our trainer and leader, Jesus Christ. He has secured the field for us, where we will one day celebrate our victory.

In this spirit, let us be wild and dangerous in our faith, standing firm in the face of worldly pressures and always guided by God's Word.

Amen.