Football and Prayers

Last night it was early in the 2nd quarter. Our boys were already way ahead and the game was sure to end at halftime under the mercy rule that is granted in 8-man football in the state of Oklahoma.  We were playing a private school's team.

The pile of boys didn't look any different than any other tackle, but when most of them got up, one was left lying on the field. No one was sure what had happened.  The players took a knee out of respect and the crowd kept quite.  It seemed like a long time - and in injury terms - it probably was.  The paramedic came at the motion of the coaches. Eventually the player was put onto the flat cart and onto the stretcher.  His family, teammates, everyone, I imagine....prayed for the young man.

The ambulance drove off and we haven't heard this morning how he is doing.  Our coach supposes that he has a deep muscle bruise in his back or something like that - as he was able to move without pain before he left.

Seeing that young man down brought fear in the hearts of all who were there.  Moms and Dads don't ever want to face that.  Players don't want to.  Coaches don't want to see it.

This morning I saw another story about a football player from Louisiana who passed away yesterday. He received a head injury last Friday night during his game.  My heart aches for his family and friends.

There is danger and risk in playing football. Everyone knows that.  But the danger and risk, to many, is worth it, and the players who play don't play the game with fear.  Parents know the risks, and while they don't ever want to face it, they know that it can happen - and sadly, will happen again.

Pray for the players of any sport.  Sports are physical and much "harder" than they used to be.  Injuries happen all of the time and some are really serious.  But we mustn't live life in fear. That's not what God wants. He wants us to live for Him and a life lived in fear that something bad might happen isn't living for Him.

So pray that your players and our players will be safe.  Pray for those who have been hurt - especially for Sam who was hurt here last night.  May his injury be quick to heal so that he can be with his teammates once again.   And pray for the Flowers family - who are mourning the loss of their son. He was a Senior.

Don't forget to pray.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6