For the record, I love Tim Tebow. I pray for Tim Tebow. Given the pressures and temptations that accompany life in the National Football League, he stands out as an example well worth emulating. My family was among the millions screaming in the living room as we witnessed another miracle comeback win on Sunday. It was simply unbelievable. And now, “play-offs, we’re talking play-offs, are you kidding me, play-offs?” ESPN’s Merril Hoge must be on his third case of Tums by now. So let me put this all in perspective. You may not like it, but here goes.
The Broncos are going to lose. It’s inevitable. The way they’ve been winning is no more sustainable than Obama’s economic policies. So please, brace yourself for the loss that is sure to come. As much as I would love to see Tebow go all the way, I am forced to face the reality that it’s not going to happen. At the same time, no one would be more thrilled to see Tim Tebow hoist the Lombardi Trophy than I. But lest you think me some pessimistic killjoy with no faith, let me give you the simple truth about Tebow.
He is on his own journey of faith. He is a believer whose testimony is above reproach. He has tenaciously and consistently followed his convictions on and off the field. By his own admission, football is not his life’s main priority. In fact, he would most likely agree with everything I’ve written in this blog. And as fickle as public opinion is and considering the ebb and flow of media attention, you have to wonder if those singing his praises now will be hurling insults later. Merril Hoge, perhaps his greatest critic, is no doubt anxiously anticipating that day.
As for those of us who love and pray for Tim, we will continue to support him and cheer for him. We believe God has honored him because he has honored Christ. (John 12.26) But folks, it’s just football. It’s exciting and fun to watch, but it’s just football; America’s great distraction, our weekly escape from the burdens and cares of life. The truth is, Tebow knows this, and understands that God has given him a platform to proclaim life’s higher purpose and those greater priorities for as long as possible.
Jesus silenced His critics for a while. He was hailed by the masses and though many in the religious establishment hated him, the common people gladly listened and followed. But even when the “world had gone after him” (John 12.19) the cross still loomed in His future. And rest assured, there are yet trials and hard times ahead for all of us, including Tim Tebow. And when the day of adversity comes, I for one, will continue to pray for this incredible young athlete who has captured not just the headlines but our hearts as well.
