When Our True Hero is Not on the Mat

Living In Community

Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. – Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

I just returned from a vacation on North Carolina’s outer banks. This has become a special place for my family as it has a variety of unique beaches and seems to be a relaxed and laid back culture. This time we chose to spend with the extended family (21 of us) so there was a lot of fun and food while enjoying the sun and surf for a week.

Anytime I’ve visited other BJJ gyms there is a commonality amongst the people. I’m not talking about the hand slap/fist bump to start the roll or the understood tap out – I’m referring to this genuine enthusiasm that’s hard to explain. Working together with a new training partner to refine a technique. The patience with someone new to walk through a basic arm bar or shrimp escape. This is not something that can be explained with words or even with a video – it’s something that needs to be experienced to appreciate.

This resembles our Christian journey as well. Scripture has a lot to say about living in a community connected with others. The Apostle Paul constantly emphasized the need to work together and build each other up. In my own life, my greatest connection with Jesus is often found when I’m in the flow with a small group studying scripture, a book or just simple fellowship. Like with BJJ, this is forged around a common belief that is cultivated through an ongoing experience. The persistent quest to grow. The struggles and periods in the desert can only be surmounted when you have a strong community to help pull you through. Conversely it is a blessing and a privilege to be able to help others when we are strong (As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another – Proverbs 27:17).

Both BJJ players and Disciples of Christ need community to not only mature on their walk but to simply sustain what they have. Being part of such a community is a blessing beyond words. For me, the absolute sweet spot is when these worlds overlap which is what I find with BJJ Under the Cross. Community does not have to be limited by our location. We are all part of the family of Christ and have a passion for BJJ to both. Thank you to all who’ve taken the time to read this and who’ve posted in the past.

Written by Bran W

About Brian W

Brian is a BJJ purple belt, married to a wonderful woman and a dad to three amazing kids. They live outside of Raleigh, North Carolina and enjoy camping, surfing and anything else in God’s creation.