Keep pressing on

Good morning! I hope your previous week was a great one and that you are starting this week off refreshed and energized.

Last night those of us in the United States went through the annual tradition (and for some a near religious experience) of Super Bowl Sunday. This year’s Super Bowl was especially noteworthy for at least 3 reasons. First of all the coaches of both teams were African Americans. Secondarily and more importantly, in my mind anyway, both men are outspoken Christians who are not ashamed of their faith. Finally we saw Peyton Manning, considered by many to be the best quarterback in the NFL, receive his championship after many close calls and near misses. Today I want to use Peyton Manning as the backdrop for this morning’s encouragement.

Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1:4 (NIV)

The Indianapolis Colts led by quarterback Peyton Manning have been a dominant football team for a number of years. Almost yearly they are expected to make the playoffs and many consider them a Super Bowl contender. However, over the past several years they have always been knocked out of contention in the final games of the playoffs. Many sports writers have hinted that Peyton Manning was simply not capable of winning the “big one.”

The disappointments and defeats along the way never sidetracked this quarterback. Each year he has returned sharpening his skills and playing at the top of his abilities. The setbacks of prior years were not roadblocks to success, but instead were building blocks to victory. This year Manning proved that he was the caliber of athlete who was capable of leading his team all the way to victory.

So what about you? Have you faced some big losses lately? How are you dealing with those defeats? Have you hung up your helmet and shoulder pads vowing to never play the game again?

Many of us get sidelined, because we give up too soon. The fumbles of life are building blocks that make us stronger. As the verse I quoted indicates; it is perseverance that brings about maturity and completeness. I don’t cherish the failures and setbacks in my life, but I wouldn’t trade them for the world, because they have molded me into the man that I am today.

Today, Peyton Manning and the Colts get to relish the joys of being Super Bowl champions. Starting in September it will be time to persevere once more if they intend to remain champions.

This week I encourage you to lace up your cleats, grab your helmet and get into the game of life.

Until next Monday, may God’s richest blessings be yours this week.

Carl