Plow Ahead

Last week, we introduced the Advice from a Tractor.  This week we will concentrate on one of the seven: “Plow Ahead”

When mowing, plowing, or driving, as long as we look straight ahead, we can keep a straight line.  Basically, cars (or whatever we are driving) tend to go the direction we are looking.  At times, it’s ok to look back quickly, especially if something unusual happens.  But, we need to keep our focus ahead of us to get the job done right.

Now, put in the perspective of officiating.  During games, we have to plow ahead.  Our focus needs to be ahead of us, the next play.  We can find opportunities to take a quick look back to make sure how the game “looks”.  But, for the end-result to look right, we need to keep our focus in front of us.

Once we have prepared during the week (completed pregame meetings and our pregame responsibilities), we are to put our hand to the plow and plow ahead.  During the game, don’t second-guess decisions and look back too long which can lead to paralysis (i.e. did we get the call right?, should we have made a call?).  Looking back too long can mess up the whole game.

Jesus replied, “No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.”
—Luke 9:62, NIV

In this verse, Jesus explains that once you commit to him, looking back does no good when  serving him. Jesus wants our full devotion to Him.  Much is the same when we are preparing and working as officials.  If our thoughts and minds are other places, we’re not “fit for service.”  We owe it to our crew, teams, coaches, and supervisors to put our hand to the plow when it’s time to perform.

Whether we have success, failure or disappointment, put our head down and plow ahead!