Faith in practice: Huntingdon's Chase Jones

HUNTINGDON – The Huntingdon High football team entered the season with high expectations and part of those where behind the ability of Chase Jones at center.

During the Mustangs' game against Camden a few weeks ago, Jones blew out his knee with a torn ACL, MCL and meniscus and had to have major knee reconstruction a week later, ending his season.

But Jones has kept a positive attitude through the whole process.

"It definitely hurts seeing my team playing without me," Jones said. "But it was an eye-opener. We are not guaranteed anything. I am rehabbing to the best of my ability to be ready to go and play on Friday nights next season."

There was also a moment when through the pain he felt God's presence.

"After they had carted me off the field, a woman came up to me," Jones said. "She said that God told her to come over and pray for me, and during those 10 to 15 seconds, I didn't feel any pain."

The verse Jeremiah 29:11 has helped him through the past few weeks.

"God has a path for you," Jones said. "You might not like it, but he has a plan for me through this.

"No matter where you are in life, whether you are far away from God or not, you are never too far away to take the first step and become one of His children."

For Jones, sports is an opportunity to share God's love with others.

"Sports is a huge platform, whether you use it for good or for bad," he said. "Tim Tebow is a great example of that. He is a great man of God, and he shows that in his actions on and off the field. You want to be a good teammate and allow guys to see God through you."

Faith in God is something Jones has had most of his life.

"When I was 8 years old, my dad was coaching my team in Upward basketball," Jones said. "It is a way to get kids involved with Christian values. It was Salvation week, and during the speaker, I was crying and tearing up. I talked to my dad, and we said a prayer. Jesus came into my life."

Jones continues to show God's love to others on a daily basis.

"On Friday mornings, I along with a couple of friends lead a Bible study at school," Jones said. "It is through FCA – Fellowship of Christian Athletes – but anyone is invited. It is a five- to 10-minute devotional with God and other believers to get you ready for the week."

Jones' junior season came to an end, but he is ready for a comeback next season with God in the center.

Michael Odom, 425-9754

Chase Jones' favorite verse

Jeremiah 29:11 – "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."