SCORING
FOR THE TEAM

Topics: Attitudes; Church; Cooperation; Faithfulness; Humility; Loyalty; Meekness; Reputation; Teamwork; Thankfulness; Togetherness; Unselfishness

References: Matthew 18:4; Luke 22:26; John 13:1–17; Romans 12:3–8; 1 Corinthians 12:7–27; Ephesians 4:11–16; Philippians 2:3–4; James 4:10

In a game between the San Diego Chargers and the Denver Broncos in December 2006, LaDainian Tomlinson, running back for the Chargers, took his position the same way he had done hundreds of times before. But this time he took the ball and sprinted around two defenders for a seven-yard gain into the end zone for his NFL record-breaking twenty-ninth touchdown of the season.

Impressive as that accomplishment was, Tomlinson’s selfless behavior after the run really stole the show. Instead of raising his hands in victory or dancing across the turf, Tomlinson beckoned for his offensive line—those inconspicuous behemoths who cleared the path for his success—to join him. With more than 67,000 fans wildly cheering, he helped his entire team bask in the glory.

He also refused to acknowledge individual accomplishment when talking with reporters after the game. Instead, he consistently used plural pronouns to include his teammates: “When we’re old and can’t play this game anymore, those are the moments that we’re going to remember, being able to tell our kids and tell our grandchildren. We made history today, and there’s no better feeling than to share it with the group of guys in that locker room.”

—Mark Bergin, “Head of the Class,” World (December 23, 2006)