My family has enjoyed watching some of the Women’s World Cup this past month. In its first match, top-ranked United States Women’s National Team (USWNT) beat an overwhelmed Thailand squad 13-0. It was the biggest margin ever in a World Cup. Critics felt the USWNT was “ruthless” in running up the score. American coach Jill Ellis responded, “I think to be respectful to opponents is to play hard against opponents.” But the excessive celebrations that came along with the goals hardly seemed respectful. The USWNT pointed out that scoring a goal or two (or five) in a World Cup match might be the highlight of a player’s career. Meanwhile, after the match, the Thailand women hung their heads and wept.

 

I would suggest this situation teaches us about culture as well as morals. The USWNT players are a product of a radically individualistic culture. They have been discipled, like most of the rest of us Americans, to pursue their individual dreams at all costs. If they win, many Americans will feel good, but no one’s social status will increase. If they lose, many Americans will feel sad, but the loss won’t ruin the day (let alone the life) of many of us. But in an Eastern culture where the Thailand players come from, there is much more of a collective sense of honor and shame. In a way that is difficult for Americans to understand, this team let down its whole nation. Losing by the biggest margin in World Cup history could stain these players – and their nation – for a very long time.

 

As a church we pursue neither Western nor Eastern culture, but “kingdom culture.” In kingdom culture, everyone is required to “seek justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8). In kingdom culture, “blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy” (Matthew 5:7). In kingdom culture, “each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Philippians 2:4). In kingdom culture, we “honor one another above ourselves” (Romans 12:10). Don’t get me wrong – I love to win (and so does Jesus – 1 Corinthians 15:57!). But in pursuit of God-given individual and team goals, we must still represent kingdom culture. And we must be mindful of how our actions affect others who come from different backgrounds than us.

 

After the game, American star Carli Lloyd embraced and encouraged Thai goalkeeper Sukanya Chor Charoenying. Sukanya later tweeted, “Thanks so much, Lloyd. Your words that you told me make me strong.” It was a glimpse of kingdom culture – embracing, encouraging, and strengthening each other – the kinds of things I hope our church will be known for even as we aim for great victories!