By Dwayne Buhler

Compliments of www.l3lucio.com.br

HE WEARS the captain's arm-band for Brazil's soccer team – which stands a good chance of winning the World Cup.

Lucimar da Silva Ferreira – also known as Lúcio – is an inspirational leader, both on and off the field.

As an outspoken member of Atletas de Cristo – a Brazilian movement of Christian athletes – he counts on God's protection and guidance.

Lúcio hopes to see his dream come true at the 2010 FIFA World Cup tournament in South Africa this summer.

Lúcio knows what it means to be a winner; he played in every single minute of every game in Brazil's 2002 World Cup victory in Korea and Japan.

He played a key role in the recent 2010 Champion's League final between Internazionale (Milan) and his former team, Bayern Munich. Earlier, he helped lead Bayern Munich to three national championships in Germany, and was twice elected league MVP.

The faithful One

Lúcio does not let fame or fortune get to him. CC.com contacted him recently to ask how he handles these pressures.

"I think this is very personal," he answered. "For me, it is the balance of many things – especially fame and money. God's wisdom is fundamental to be able to have the right balance in these things . . . Fame is fleeting, and all the money in the world cannot buy true happiness in this life. It only comes when you are part of the family of God."

Lúcio continued: "Jesus is my best friend, and a constant companion. He's the one who is faithful and always at my side – whether it is in the pain of defeat, or in the delirious joy of victory. He'll be with me, even when my name is totally forgotten."

Church and family

Lúcio also talked about his grounding in the Christian faith:

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"I've been a Christian for 12 years. I went to church with my mother as a teenager. From the first time I walked in the doors of that church, I felt like this is where I belong. I am thankful for the personal relationship I have with God through Jesus, and for the patience and grace he has shown me and my family."

"The Bible is my instruction manual, teaching me to walk according to the will of God," Lúcio added. "He knows what is best for us. He has shown the way of salvation, and helps me gain victory in my life and in my work. But my greatest victory is to have God in my home, with my wife and children.

"I try to make sure that I have a daily relationship with God, reading his word and spending time in prayer. I know that he knows what is best for me in all situations. God offers life, love and peace, and our salvation. He loves us unconditionally, and offers us his joy."

Glorifying God

The world of international sports can be a difficult place to take a stand for one's faith, but Lúcio is unashamed about being a follower of Jesus. In 2002, a group of Brazilian soccer players met before the championship match against Germany. Lúcio described that meeting:

"I met with Kaká, Edimilson, and others for times of Bible study and prayer. During our meetings, we prayed and worshiped God. We decided that we wanted to do something to glorify God. I put on a T-shirt that said 'Jesus loves you.' This was my way to tell the world that I was grateful to the Lord, and that he was my reason for playing."

Some have criticized these Brazilian players. Since the 2002 final, FIFA has banned the use of religious slogans on the personal equipment and clothing of players; but this has not stopped Lúcio and his Christian teammates.

"We must respect the decision of FIFA," Lúcio said, "but I believe that God will give us a way to testify of his love for the world, remembering that our behaviour on the field also can be used by God. The important thing is to plant a seed, and let the Holy Spirit convince people of the way they should follow. Everything I do is for God's glory – and I believe that people see this, and can be led to Christ by my example."

The full armour

When asked about his favourite Bible verse, Lúcio was quick to quote Ephesians 6:10. "This verse speaks about putting on the full armour of God, which is something that I always ask for: his protection."

Brazil is one of the teams favoured to win the 2010 World Cup. If that should happen, a gentle giant named Lúcio will lift the trophy in one hand – while the other hand is raised in praise to God.

Dwayne Buhler is the CEO of MissionsFest Vancouver.

June 10/2010