Talents and unity

To the disappointment of many people (including myself), Netherlands was not able to pass the first stage of the Euro Cup 2012. Even more, they lost every single game!

Netherlands is historically a very competitive team since the late 70s carrying generations of great players. In the present, they actually have a big pool of talent in the offensive side which propelled them to get into the finals of the last World Cup. They have players of this caliber:

• Robin van Persie: top scorer of the English Premier League with 30 goals
• Klaas-Jan Huntelaar: top scorer of the German Bundesliga with 29 goals
• Wesley Snejder: one of the top 3 midfielders in 2010, and instrumental player for Internazionale success in previous years.
• Arjen Robben: instrumental player for Bayern Munich team

We can also add more with players like Rafael van der Vaart and Ibrahim Afellay who have exceptional skills. The rest of team is also above average.

Why did the dutch lose every single game? Even more, with such much gunpowder they only scored two goals.

I can think of two main reasons:

• Not investing their talents effectively: it seems that the forwards were carrying much pressure and not performing well at all. They were missing easy opportunities, and it is not very typical for them. If they are not able to focus, then despite how talented they are it is futile.
• Lack of unity within the team: even though the individual players have much talents, but if they are not working together as a team they will not be able to accomplish their goals. It was evident the lack of coherence in their play style.

Just as a Christian believer, even if we are given talents and gifts, if we are not focused on God we will not be able to be effective in our ministries. As well, we are to serve with other brothers and sisters but if there is a lack of unity, not much can be accomplished.