Sussex prayer breakfast speaker inspires large crowd
Speaking from his heart, Bill Alexson captivated a large crowd June 14 at Crossroad Community Church near Georgetown during the 39th annual Sussex County Prayer Breakfast.
Alexson, who had his sights on an NBA career that never materialized, said he's not disappointed because God's path has led him to help spread the Gospel around the world as founder and president of SportsPower International.
With retired and current professional basketball players, Alexson puts on tournaments nationally and internationally. Basketball and entertainment are the hooks to get crowds – especially young people – out as they hear testimony from players and Alexson at halftime.
Alexson said he tells his players two things before every tournament. “They can expect opposition and God showing up so they don't have to worry about opposition,” he said. “God will back you up. We are one as a majority with God. It's time to make a stand and let our lights shine.”
Alexson played basketball through high school and college and then went on to play for two years in Greece before injuring his ankle. “I knew then I was not good enough for the NBA, and I thought I was at my end, until I turned to the Lord,” he said. The next stop on his journey was Bible school where he refined his preaching skills.
As one door closed, another one opened. He was recruited out of the blue to set up the NBA's Player's Chapel program for 23 teams, the only remaining professional sport that did not have a program. He ended up as chaplain of his favorite team, the Boston Celtics, for 22 years. “God was opening doors, and miracles were happening,” he said.
Alexson, who does a spot-on Billy Graham imitation, said it's not about us – it's about the Lord.
“God is in our corner. Faith in Christ will get you into heaven. It's a free gift, but you must receive it first,” Alexson said. “Let your light shine and God will take care of the big picture.”
Alexson, his wife, Valerie, and son, Brandon, live in Baltimore.
The breakfast's opening prayer was led by the Rev. Rick Betts of Crossroad Community Church and music was provided by Brothers to Brothers of Greenwood. A prayer for the nation was led by Rep. Tim Dukes of Laurel; Dale Dukes of Laurel was emcee, and Bob Bennett offered the closing prayer.
It was announced that the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association will bring its Decision America Tour 2016 with Franklin Graham to the front steps of Dover's Legislative Hall at noon, Tuesday, Sept. 13. Go to DecisionAmericaTour.com for more information.
