Roland's first talk filled us with pride, because he worked very hard on it, and other than listening to him practice it, we had no input. A kind man in the ward asked him for a copy (the ultimate compliment), so I transcribed it for him, and decided to post it!
My name is Roland Hare for those of you who don’t know me. I like football and the Ducks. I didn't like the National Championship. I've been asked to give a talk on Our Greatest Coach by Matthew Garrett.
Coming to church is like a practice. The scriptures are like a playbook, for any type of defense Satan sends that tries to put us down. A normal day can be like a scrimmage or a game, at work or at school.
He is always teaching and challenging us, many times he gives us adversity to challenge us. A coach might put you at defensive end, arguably the most disciplined player on the field, to strengthen you. He might make you a high councilman.
He always has a game plan for each one of us, like ‘what job we have in the ward’ Home teachers are like personal trainers.
He knows our strengths and weaknesses, so whatever position we're in, he wants us to be there.
He inspires and motivates us, he wants us to return to live with him again. He is like a coach, he roots for us even when we've lost the way.
He is always teaching. The lord has said that we must be prepared and follow His instructions if we want to succeed.
He has a Game plan, he never lets us quit. He pushes the team to the tend and expects hard work because he knows every second that passes is a second closer to the end of the game-and to reaching the ultimate victory.
He is aware of each player’s needs. And no one loves us, knows us, or cares for us as much as our Heavenly Father.
He knows when to call time-out. Like a dedicated coach watching us in a game or practice, Heavenly Father knows how we are performing.
He inspires and motivates. Like a coach who passionately roots for the players, Heavenly Father is always there to motivate, inspire, and cheer for us, especially when we face our toughest opponents.
He promotes unity. We are all ‘sons and daughters unto God’. D&C 76:24.
He makes practice joyful. As we learn and grow, Heavenly Father wants us to find happiness and enjoy each day, not suffer through life.
He always helps us win. If we remain faithful players on His team and listen to His divine instruction, we will win ‘a great victory’ 2 Samuel 23:10,12 and receive the ultimate reward, even His kingdom and all that He has.
Fulfill your personal plan: Seek through the Spirit to identify it and carefully follow that direction that the Lord has put in your life. What you decide to do now will affect how well you fulfill that divine personal plan He has for you.
I have a testimony of the gospel. I know Joseph Smith translated the plates. In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
