ATHLETES WHO GLORIFY JESUS CHRIST

There have been a number of articles in the N.Y. Times and other media about the number of athletes who are bold about their faith.  It drives some people crazy.  For myself and others, however, what a glorious blessing to see athletes boldly honor Jesus Christ as savior and Lord!

One of the reasons I enjoy watching sports is to see and hear the testimonies that often follow a great game.  There are many examples, including the bold, exuberant faith and example of Tim Tebow.  The number one pick in the NBA draft this year, Blake Griffin, comes from a godly family where faith is always front and center.  The surprise winner of the British Open this year, Stewart Cink, went out of his way to thank the Lord for the victory. 

Last night, I watched an ESPN special on Kurt Warner, currently the 38 year old quarterback of the Arizona Cardinals.  For those of you who don't know his story, it will be a movie some day, because it is so amazing.  He and his wife just published a book, First Things First, about their life journey and God's amazing grace.  His First Things First Foundation is found at the website, www.kurtwarner.org, and displays Matt. 6:33 as the theme of his life - to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.  

The First Things First theme comes from the television interview with him as the Superbowl MVP with the St. Louis Rams, where he was asked a question that started with, "First things first."  Kurt responded that if he is going to put first things first, he has to give glory to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  From then on, everyone knew the meaning of First Things First in the life of Kurt and his wife.  Consider ordering the book - Kurt's life illustrates the truth of James 1:2-4. 

The next time you watch your favorite sport, pray for God to be glorified in the lives of the athletes!