“But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” — Matthew 19:30

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Imagine a boy born with several disabilities in a town not too far away. Benjamin is loved by his parents and continues to be their greatest gift. He faces numerous challenges because of his cerebral palsy, which causes a curved spine, digestive issues, difficulty swallowing, and though some cases are worse than others, many people with cerebral palsy don’t speak clearly and struggle with balance.

When his parents heard the news, they wept because they knew their son would face hardship. Nevertheless, they made up their minds to find a way to help Ben live a productive, fulfilled life. During his early years, he spent a lot of time doing speech therapy and also at a children’s hospital where they put braces on his legs to help him walk. As a family, they accepted the challenge and decided they would be champions together.

Though he would never have a chance to participate in athletics, he grew up and became an equipment manager for a middle school football team. As time passes, Ben gains more confidence despite the cruel laughter of other children. His wise parents give him inner strength by teaching him to make the best of his situation. Even though he’s smaller and slower, he glows with happiness in spite of his adversity. He knows what really matters.

At times, he feels like a big monster stands in his way trying to stop him from doing anything, but he knows God has a plan for him — just as God did for David long ago, when Samuel was sent to anoint the next king. “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart'” (1 Samuel 16:7).

When Jesus worked with His disciples, they worried too much about who had the best seat or the most power, but Jesus taught a better way. Jesus told Peter he needed correction because he was looking at everything backwards. Jesus explained that His definition of success is different from ours. “But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first” (Matthew 19:30).

The sometimes unseen believers in the background who don’t stand on the big stage are often some of the most outstanding people in the world. Sometimes it can be easier for a person who regularly struggles to be humble and compassionate like Christ, than it is for a superstar quarterback who rarely gets injured.

Ben’s story can inspire us in many ways — from small things like his example of being on time to practice, carrying coolers and shoulder pads, and continuing to talk even when people gave him a hard time, to staying determined and keeping a good attitude through all that life throws at him. Ben has the true heart of a champion.

— Bill Kent, Pastor of Memorial Baptist Church, Sylvania, Georgia

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