SAN FRANCISCO, CALIF. — October 17, 1989. Millions
gathered around their television sets to watch Game 3 of the World
Series between the San Francisco Giants and Oakland Athletics. I was
seated with three friends in the upper deck of Candlestick Park, awaiting
the celebrated first pitch.
The crowd noise was deafening as players took their final warm-ups.
Then, at 5:04 p.m., an eerie hush followed by terrifying shrieks
swept across the ballpark. The Bay Area was experiencing its most
devastating earthquake since 1906. The infield turf rippled. Light
standards swayed like palm trees. Chairs teetered. Cement walls
tilted.
When the chaos subsided, thousands cheered in unison like thrill-seekers
surviving a brush with death. But, moments later, we learned the
gravity of the situation. The 7.1 earthquake had toppled buildings,
damaged bridges and taken many lives.
Baseball was put in proper perspective that night. The game was
postponed, and 60,000 fans were reminded that there are more important
matters in life than the outcome of a World Series.
In this edition of the Pentecostal Evangel, NFL stars like
Randall Cunningham, Kurt Warner and Peter Boulware reveal what they
treasure far more than winning a Super Bowl or reaching the Hall
of Fame. They have a relationship with Jesus Christ and the promise
of eternal life. They know first-hand that there’s more to
life than sports.
Perhaps you’ve watched athletes declare their love for Jesus
on national television and you’ve wondered if you should pursue
your own relationship with Him. After reading this magazine, you
will face the most important decision of your life — to accept
or reject Jesus as your Lord and Savior. Do not procrastinate or
wait for a more convenient time. That time is now.
With the suddenness of an earthquake, your life can end. And, at
that moment, all that matters is whether you decided to follow Jesus
Christ. It won’t matter what football team you followed or
what jersey you donned on Sunday afternoons. Your home for eternity
— heaven or hell — will be determined by your decision
to accept or reject Jesus Christ.
Let me encourage you to take the same step many NFL stars have
taken. Invite Jesus into your life and receive His promise of heaven
by following the ABCs of salvation
on Rolf Benirschke's page.
Be assured, with Jesus calling the signals of your life, victory
is guaranteed.
Hal Donaldson
