Over forty-five million kids play organized sports in the U.S. each year. That’s more than the population of Ukraine!

If your kids play sports, do you sometimes begrudge the many hours spent in practice, tournaments and games? I did. That attitude changed dramatically one day.

I was looking around at coaches and players, and their parents, relatives and friends, when I suddenly realized that God had placed me there for a strategic purpose. Here were dozens of people who didn’t know Christ, and we would be together in those bleachers for weeks.

God had called me to the Bleacher Ministry.

What if every Christian child and parent in your church saw their sports season as a mission too? Need some fresh ideas?

1. Be intentional. Before the season begins, chat as a family about ways God may use you. Ask God to open doors and guide you.

2. Personalize. Begin on the first practice day to learn names. Study the roster and cheer for players by name. Make a point to introduce yourself to parents. Keep a notebook to help recall names. A simple “Hello Heather” can mean a lot to a lonely mom.

3. Move it. Sit near different people at the games, and get to know them. Carefully avoid being part of a clique.

4. Listen well. There are needs all around you. When problems or crises occur, be ready to act. Send a card. Promise to pray for them.

5. Live it. People are watching to see if God makes a difference in your life. Smile. Have fun. Treasure your child. Reflect Christ with every word and action. Absolutely avoid criticism or bad sportsmanship. Remember that you are God’s ambassador—his “letter” to those who don’t know Him. As others observe your life, they’ll be drawn to Him.

6. Do more than expected. Be available. Volunteer your yard for the team cookout. Share game photos. Check on a sick teammate. Seize every opportunity to show God’s love.

7. Carry a few church brochures or invitation cards, and readily share them when opportunities arise. Invite your child’s Sunday School teacher or children’s minister to attend a game.

God can use you to impact entire families if you’ll let Him. Has God called you to the Bleacher Ministry this season?

Diana Davis is the author of Fresh Ideas (B&H Publishing) and the wife of North American Missions Board Midwest Region VP. She blogs at Keep On Shining where this article; it is used with permission’’