The Glory Of The Game

Sitting on the bleachers on a warm autumn evening where gray clouds with pink streaks reflect the setting sun brings feelings of joy and contentment. What is even better is why I’m there. I’m supporting my nine year old grandson as he plays football. Whether he makes a touchdown, or a game winning tackle, or sits on the bench, this grandma’s heart is just as happy to see him turn, spot me and wave. He knows he’s loved and supported. For me to take the time to watch a game I don’t understand just so I can see him speaks volumes of validation to him.

FAMILY

I try to watch the game, but really I’m just watching Anthony. He may be in line for the kickoff or at the sidelines kicking dust. All he does concerns  me for I care for him deeply. For me, the glory of the game is my grandson. We raised him for five years, journeying with him through toddlerhood. Now we still journey with him through every stage of his life. We marvel as he matures into manhood.

FATHER

Think of the love the Father has for you as He watches with deep concern and care. Whether you are in the middle of an intense game seeing action or on the sidelines, you can impact others for the kingdom. One kind word or gesture, one drink to a thirsty soul, blocking the enemies advance in someones life, or giving a hug or a pat on the shoulder to show you are there being part of the team.

FAVOR

The word glory has many meanings: magnificence, honor from notable achievements, praise to God, or take great pride in. I’ve seen a football player make a touchdown and kneel giving honor and glory to God. That’s a double demonstration of glory. “ You are a shield about me, the glory and the lifter of my head.” (Psalm 3:3) Psalm 18 talks about the Lord being a champion of my cause. The Lord is the champion, no matter which way the game goes. I choose to be on the winning side.

FOOTBALL

Back to the game, I can’t even tell who has the ball most of the time, It’s such a scramble I don’t know how they know who to tackle. I don’t know why they move those poles up and down the sidelines. I do like the fact that their apparel keeps them protected. (That’s probably not a good way to describe their clothes, how about outfit? Probably not good either.) OKI have it, their football uniform is conducive to protection  and keeping them safe. Ephesians 6 talks about the armor of God that keeps you safe from the enemies attack. It’s even better to see this protection over our your young one’s heart, mind, and body.

FABULOUS

Of course, the glory of the game does not compare with God’s glory. Football is temporary fame and passing glory. God’s glory is unfathomable and unending. Jesus gives life to the lost, hope to the hurting, blessing to the broken, restoration to the torn and peace in the pain.

FUN

It’s fun to revel in a temporary glory, acknowledging the player, their value and success. Even if they don’t win every game, they are winners for their effort and engagement. And we are winners for the love and support we give our young ones as they tackle the glorious game of life as they run with perseverance the race marked out for them. (See Hebrews 12:1-2)

Anthony’s biggest fan, Debbie