I’ve mentioned this before. More than once.
I really like football. Especially the National Football League.
Just like a lot of folks throughout the nation.
But is that a good thing?
Lately, I’ve been going through a period of introspection; asking myself why I do or don’t do certain things. Why is entertainment so important to me? And specifically, why is the NFL so much a part of my life?
How big is the game…to me? How about you?
In just a couple of days, two teams, supposedly the best two out of a league of thirty two, will meet to decide which team is the World Champion.
And finally, after 60 minutes of playing time, two hours of instant replays and commercials, and thirty minutes during which a typically bawdy halftime show “entertains” the viewers, the Lombardi Trophy will be presented to the new champions; the Super Bowl XLIX World Champions.
Why is it such a popular game? Why do I enjoy it so much? Again, just how big is the game?
American Football has been around since 1892, but its popularity didn’t really take off until after that first Super Bowl game, which was played on January 15, 1967. Since then, and especially over the last twenty five years, Super Bowl Sunday is one of the biggest party days of the year!
I keep asking myself, “Is America’s obsession with sports a good thing?” And, more importantly, “Is MY obsession with football a good thing for me?”
Has the big game become too big…for me? For you?
Can I love both the game AND the Lord at the same time? Can I actually skip watching the big game, and not feel like I’m missing out on something? Not mope around like I’m being punished.
What would happen if I didn’t watch the game, or periodically check the score on my smartphone? Would my actions affect the game’s outcome?
What would I miss? What could I do with the three plus hours I would save by keeping the TV off?
I might miss some great plays. I could miss a few funny commercials. And yes, I just might even miss fellowshipping with my football buddies.
And there’s always the cheerleaders and halftime show to consider. “But I never see the cheerleaders…” Sure, Mike, sure.
But what could I gain by not letting the Super Bowl become so super in my life this year?
I just may have an opportunity to REALLY connect with friends. Something beyond an occasional high five, or, “Hey, bring me some chips on your way back from the kitchen!”
Maybe I’d have time to really appreciate my wife, and not just the party food she prepares for the Big Game. I could turn the control of the TV’s remote over to her for the evening and watch something she’d enjoy, instead.
Who knows? Perhaps I would find the time to read and meditate God’s word. Have a minute or two to pray. Quiet my heart enough to hear the Ruler of the Universe speak to my soul.
Like I said, I’m doing some serious thinking about my love for football. As far as I can tell, football has never added anything of real value to my life. Maybe it’s given you a lot, and that’s cool.
But honestly, I believe I just may be able to live without it.
Maybe I will.
“Watch out! Don’t let your hearts be dulled by carousing and drunkenness, and by the worries of this life. Don’t let that day catch you unaware, like a trap. For that day will come upon everyone living on the earth. Keep alert at all times…” (Luke 21:34 – 21:36 NLT)
Jan Grace 