meditatio at the water's edge

Football... & God
So what do the two have to do with each other? Well, allow me to share a story, a real life story that has unfolded before my eyes. It isn't an internet e-mail thing nor is it meant to be cute. It simply happened.

Last week, Derrick De Young, a 16 year old high school junior from South Christian High School (in the Grand Rapids area) was killed in a car accident. The accident was the result of winter road conditions, and while the driver of the car walked away, Derrick had a much different fate.

Hours after Derrick's death, last Saturday morning, the football team gathered to make a decision. They were scheduled to play in the state semi-final game that afternoon. But they would be playing without one of their teammates. Should they play? Derrick's dad, a pastor, encouraged the team to play. As the game came to a close that afternoon the scoreboard read 42 - 21, South Christian. Derrick's number was 42. The team, strong on defense, hadn't scored 42 points in a game previous to the state semi-final.

This week Derrick's funeral took place, and a good friend of mine, Ken Schripsema, had the challenge and opportunity to speak. I prayed for him; he did well!

Today the state final game was on the line for the South Christian Sailors. An hour ago the game concluded. South won a hard fought game. They are the state champs. The final score 42 - 13. Read that score again. Ponder.

While I often believe God cares little about the outcome of sporting events (and perhaps I am entirely wrong), a sense of God's goodness in the midst of pain descended on those who knew Derrick's love for God, who knew this team, and know this God. In the midst of life, in the midst of death, we can be blessed!

We ARE always, always, always, always, always in His Grip!!!!!!