Oh, Ye of Little Faith
In the US (and perhaps elsewhere), we are all overjoyed at the recovery of football player Damar Hamlin after suffering a cardiac arrest on the field. He was treated superbly by the medical professionals (resuscitated twice) and has made a remarkable recovery.
And, perhaps, aided through prayer.
In professional sports, and particularly in American football, open homage is paid to God. Players form prayer circles on the field after games from both teams. After a spectacular play, the team member often points to the sky in appreciation to God. (This is by their own admission. You also hear celebrities who win awards say, “First, I have to thank the good Lord for allowing me to….”)
The team owners, management, and officials of the National Football League are also oriented this way. There was an overwhelming plea to pray for Damar’s recovery, especially when it was uncertain if he’d ever awaken. Signs filled the stadiums calling for prayer. Sportscasters and analysts on television openly declared they were praying. Stadium signage proclaimed it.
This, to me, was like finally recognizing the unspoken evidence that everyone prays at one time or another, especially when desperate and emotionally involved. Athletes have rather openly shown their acceptance of God in their lives.
Recently, a high school coach was fired. His transgression was that after the game was over, he would go to the 50-year-line and say a prayer, win or lose, and was joined by some players. Some parents and a “woke” school board found his praying in public “undue pressure on students to join him,” and suggested he pray in an equipment closet.
He refused and filed suit, and the Supreme Court (https://www.politico.com/news/2022/06/27/supreme-court-sides-with-high-school-coach-over-50-yard-line-prayers-00042543) reinstated him. Of course, in most court rooms it says somewhere, “In God We Trust,” as it does on our money, and Congress (when it’s actually functioning) begins its day with prayer.
Let’s just admit that we all need to pray at times because it makes us feel better and provides solace. That’s not going to destroy the country or bring on Armageddon. At least that’s what I believe.
So help me God.
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