WILMORE, Ky. --- Asbury Athletics has announced this month's #TeamAU Alumni Feature, presented by KEMI (Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance), highlights a former Asbury student-athlete, Joe Williams, class of 2020. Joe was a catcher for the Asbury Baseball team from 2017-2020 and was the first ever recipient of the Eric Liddell Scholarship, awarded for his servant leadership and strong Christian character.
"Joe exemplifies what we pray our men become as a part of our team, and our program is stronger because of him. He was a fierce competitor on the field, a dedicated, hardworking student, but most importantly a person who modeled faithful Christian character and humble servant leadership. The Lord has a wonderful plan for him and his wife, Andrea, and many people will be blessed because of their lives."
Head Coach Manny Cervantes
See Joe's answers to our questions below!
What was your major and what sport did you play?
Major: Business Administration; MBA through the 4+1 program. Sport: Baseball
How did God use Asbury to impact your life?
I received an amazing, faith-centered education and got to live out my dream of playing baseball at the college level. More importantly, God allowed me to meet my wife, make lifelong friendships, and receive some incredible mentorship. The Lord used all these relationships and took me from being a casual "Christian" leaning on the faith of my family, to a real relationship with Christ and a faith that drives how and why I live.
What is your favorite Bible verse?
My favorite Bible verse is Philippians 2:13-15.
Philippians 2 is such a great chapter but I chose these verses specifically because they first remind me that God is working to fulfill His Kingdom purpose in me and I need to be on board with this every day. The second half of the passage challenges me to avoid the trap of constantly complaining about life and arguing with anyone that may disagree with me. So many people (especially on social media) make it a habit of doing these things but Christ followers are called to a higher standard of living. It can be hard to stay away from this poor attitude of complaining and arguing especially when everyone around us is giving in to it constantly. But we are called to be Christ's light and show others that there is a different, better way to live that gives much more joy and peace.
"For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose. Do everything without grumbling (complaining) or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, 'children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.' Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky" - Philippians 2:13-15
What is your current occupation?
I am a Retirement Plan Specialist working remotely for a small TPA firm in St. Louis, Missouri called Benefit Plans Plus.
What is your favorite Asbury athletics memory?
My favorite memory is our mid season turnaround my Junior year that led to a conference tournament berth. We started out very poorly that season and were even swept by one of the worst teams in the conference. After some really pivotal team meetings (and possibly a game or two of ultimate frisbee to get our minds off baseball for a bit) we turned things around and finished the rest of the season strong. We even won multiple series against nationally ranked teams during that run to the conference tournament and it was the most fun I ever had with a group of teammates.
Why would you encourage anyone to attend Asbury University?
Asbury is a place where God can help you grow tremendously in all areas of your life. You get out what you put in, but if you are willing to work your rear end off in your relationship with the Lord, in your friendships, in the classroom, and in your sport or other extracurricular activity then you will see God do amazing things in you and through you. There are so many people there ready to come alongside you on our journey and help you discover who you are and what purpose God has for you.
