Wisdom From John
What I learned at the Super Bowl
Over the last couple of days, I have watched the New Orleans Saint's fans filling the streets to celebrate their team's win in the Super Bowl and I find myself shaking my head in disbelief at the size of crowds and their cries of "Who Dat." While I was happy for the win, I lacked the enthusiasm of a diehard Saint's fan. For sure, I still have my brown paper bag from seasons gone by but in the final analysis, the Super Bowl was just another football game to me.
Now before I go any further, let me say, "I am not throwing stones at sport fans nor am I condemning people for enjoying a good time. My only desire is to share a lesson I learned while driving to work. Hopefully, we'll still be friends at the end of this email.
So, here is what I've learned … the other morning as I drove to work listening to all the rave reviews of the game, God said, "Listen to the world celebrate and learn." Then as I drove God began to show me the difference between worldly excitement and godly joy.
In reading scriptures, I have always been impressed by the fact that the Apostle Paul had learned to be content in all situation. Paul wrote, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation…." Philippians 4:12. To me, Paul's secret was understanding his relationship with Christ; having Jesus satisfied his every need.
Opposite of Paul are those without Christ who seem to never be satisfied. There is always a bigger house to buy, a newer car to drive and more money to be made. When it comes to relationships they often bounce from one marriage to another. The worldly grow bored quickly and forever seek the "Good Times"…any reason for a party. As for worldly celebrations they always end, but where one ends, another one begins. Fifteen minutes of fame is about as long as the world will offer its praise and celebration…today's heroes are tomorrow's bums.
In my Christian walk I have watched the faithful; those individuals grounded in the Word of God…prayer warriors who stand in the gap for so many of us. I have been amazed by their faith as they face the struggles of life and act as if nothing serious has happened. I have sat with them as they died and have been challenged by their examples of faith. I have learn that, as we walk with Christ, our challenge is to distinguish the difference between what is important in life and what is passing trivia.
The worldly seek after excitement and pleasures; they hunger for the sensation of the thrill and eagerly join the crowd. Believers are more cautious and focus on the things of God; in the presence of God, crowds are unimportant. To the believer, there is no greater joy than being in the presence of the Almighty and understanding that he knows our name.
Know that there is nothing wrong with celebrating sports victories or with having a good time. I pray I've not stolen anyone's fun or dampen anyone's Saint's celebration. Now, pass the popcorn and turn the channel…What's the next game and who's on first?
John K ICWAO@hotmail.com February 12, 2010
