JAMAICA, N.Y. — Following a hard-fought football game, some
television viewers are bewildered to see opposing players drop to
one knee at midfield, join hands and bow their heads in prayer. Fans
can’t comprehend how gladiators can collide on the gridiron for
three hours and then, when the final gun sounds, kneel together like
teammates.
But fans must look beyond the shade of players’ uniforms and
recognize their common devotion to Jesus Christ. Regardless of what
NFL jersey they wear, Jesus is their head coach. He’s with them
on and off the field. And because of their relationship with Him,
they also share the promise of eternal life in heaven. In other words,
they’re on the same team.
When players gather to pray in the post-game huddle, they’re
declaring to fans and teammates that there’s more to life than
football. Football is a game that yields trophies and financial rewards;
salvation through Jesus Christ is about receiving the gift of everlasting
life.
The athletes featured in this magazine are among many in the NFL
who have made a decision to follow Jesus. All-pros like Cris Carter,
Kurt Warner and Bruce Matthews discovered that fame and money couldn’t
bring them peace and satisfaction. They began searching for a greater
purpose in life. And they found what they were looking for when they
repented of their sins and entered into a relationship with Jesus.
You can make the same decision that many NFL stars have made. You
can follow the ABCs of salvation and
commit your life to Christ. Jesus said, "I tell you the truth,
he who believes has everlasting life" (John 6:47, NIV). Believing
and serving Jesus is the most important decision you will make. And
you’ll soon discover that having Jesus in your life is more valuable
than a Super Bowl ring or the Vince Lombardi trophy.
— Hal Donaldson
