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Are you ready for some... Given the time of year and season we are now approaching, I would think that almost everyone (at least every pigskin fan) would be able to complete the phrase, “Are you ready for some …” It would be of no surprise for most to think of “football” as a way to complete this now house-hold legendary “made for TV” jingle. In fact, I’m even quite sure that most around the country could even sing this highly cultural slogan woven deep within the fabric of American society. Whether this is a good thing or not is up for debate I suppose J, but the reality that Pittsburgh Steeler fans are “ready for some football” would be an understatement.
While there are some whom we may know who almost elevate one’s experience of football to a spiritual level, the mark is missed I believe when we consider our “readiness” for the true spiritual things of God. With equal fervor and excitement, I wonder how many could say that they are ready for something spiritual in nature? After all, God offers us many things as gifts abounding from His grace and love for us. That’s a valid question I believe when we consider the slippery slope of our culture sliding so seemingly away from the spiritual things of God and all that He has to offer us.
So as a few tangible examples of God’s gifts of grace and love, are you ready for some encouragement, strength and joy? God is best in offering encouragement to the discouraged, strength to the weak, and joy to the joyless. Receiving these gifts during difficult times may make the difference how we respond in the midst of difficulty. When we can’t see through the tunnel, God provides us encouragement along the way. Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” Christ has come so that the “full measure of His joy may be within us.” (John 17:13)
Are you also ready for some of God’s confidence and assurances? Just as a winning football team needs confidence to success, to be a victorious believer in Christ requires exercising confidence in Christ. Our confidence rests upon the eternal assurances that Christ has guaranteed for those who commit their lives to Him! Because our salvation is not based on what we do (that’s “religion” - i.e. “do this, and do that in order to somehow become “good enough” to achieve God’s salvation), but upon what Christ has done (that’s “relationship” - i.e. “establishing a personal relationship with Christ by trusting alone in His accomplished work on the cross”), as Paul says, “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). Likewise, John writes, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life.” (I John 5:13)
And finally for those whose hectic schedules leave us exhausted, are you ready for some peace and rest? It’s Jesus who said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) To be sure, God’s promise of His care stands true for us today as Scripture reminds us to “cast our cares and anxieties upon Him, for God cares for you.” (I Pt. 5:7). God provides shelter from the storms of life and refuge for the tired. (Ps. 91:1,2).
So are you “ready for some football?” No doubt! I know I am! But are you equally ready to receive these spiritual gifts from God? That is my prayer for you, God’s church, and our community!
We’re on the winning side in Christ!
Pastor John |
