National Championship

“When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.”

“Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?”

The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” - 1 Corinthians 15:54-57 NIV

Last night was the BCS National Championship game between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Georgia Bulldogs. At our house, my girls showed some interest in the game but Amy’s alma mater is Auburn. So, there was not much “love” for either team. But they chose sides before it was over... choosing Georgia over Bama.

After a long, hard fought instant classic battle, the Crimson Tide defeated the Bulldogs in overtime.

And though we were happy for the Alabama freshman quarterback who came in and gave them the spark that they needed, my girls were disappointed that Georgia didn’t have another miracle left in them.

Yet, today they will likely wear their “Auburn” sweatshirts to school on this chilly Tallahassee morning, in silent support of the team that defeated both National Championship teams.

You see, that’s the thing about being a Believer, we’re not promised victory in every game or championship that we play. We’re not promised that everything will turn up roses in every endeavor that we take on. We’re not promised that we will gain riches and wealth when we become followers of Christ.

No, in fact, we’re told quite the opposite. Told of the battles and struggles. The only victory that we are promised is the Victory found in Jesus. That is, victory over death, victory by the blood and the resurrection, victory over sin. Jesus has already won the final battle. We are already promised forgiveness and eternal life, if only we’ll trust and believe.

Victory is at hand. Let the celebration begin!

Keep the Faith... Carpe Diem