Living Water by Larry Garret

Some of the most influential people in our history were first criticized for having a new idea. Ideas can never come to completion without "giving it a go" to see if the idea would actually work. I think of this when thinking about the start of what we call modern-day foil boarding. I remember in the 80's seeing people using the "Foil Chair" behind a boat and thinking it might go terribly wrong. I personally have never used a foil board but I have a ton of friends who love it. 

Foil boarding is continuing to grow and change as people look at the possibilities and dynamics of the science behind the function of the wing and the shape that creates the action of foiling. My friend Dave Shoreman has developed a new style wing in the shape of a whale's tail. My friend Kai Borge Garcia is using his foil board in "Big Wave Foiling" getting towed into them to experience the feeling and power found in a new way. His input is being used to adapt the sport for those who want to excel in that aspect of the sport. I know that both of my friends have received criticism for trying something new.

I know that as leaders you will take on criticism. Rick Warran once said, "Criticism is the cost of influence". What does that look like as we use surfing as a tool to share Jesus on the water? In our communities? Are we ready to be criticized for our choice to use Jesus as our number one influence? Are we ready to be seen as unpopular in a trendy world that is pressing hard in a direction that isn't influenced by the Light? It is one thing to be criticized for being a jerk and another to be criticized for showing the Love of Jesus. 

We are reminded in Scripture that when we live for Jesus it comes with persecution. John 15:18-20 says, "If the world hates you, understand that it hated Me first. If you were of the world, it would love you as its own. Instead, the world hates you, because you are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. Remember the word that I spoke to you: "No servant is greater than his master. If they persecuted Me, they will persecute you as well." Stand strong in the faith and continue to be the light even if you are persecuted.