Consider this: It is estimated that nearly 167,000,000 people tuned in to watch the Super Bowl in 2012. The total population of the U.S. at that time was around 312,000,000. That means that one in two people in our country were sitting in front of their television on that Sunday evening. Chances are that you were one of them. And guess what? Chances are you will be one of them again this Sunday. It’s scheduled to be a great one. Brothers John and Jim Harbaugh will go head to head, hoping to bring the Lombardi trophy back to their city. Regardless of whether you’re a die-hard football fan or haven’t watched a game this entire season, this is a good one to plan for.
As Christians, we don’t believe that there exists a dichotomy between your life and your faith. Your identity as a Christian affects every aspect of your life – even how you watch football. Every day our lives are filled with opportunities to live in community and on mission. The Super Bowl is a great example of such an occasion. Our GCMs have been discussing how we can be more intentional about engaging our family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers with our lives and the gospel. This Sunday is a perfect opportunity for you to do just that. Here are some ideas on how:
Be Hospitable
- You’re going to watch the Super Bowl anyway, why not watch it with others? Coordinate with your GCM and throw a Super Bowl party. Go all out! Host a party that’s memorable with great food and drink (make it affordable by doing a potluck).
- Invite 1 or 2 people in your life that you want to get to know better or even a relationship that you want to revisit with new missional intentionality.
- The game starts at 6:30, but start a little earlier with dinner. Provide opportunities for conversation before your eyes get glued to the television.
- Learn the stories. You’ll have plenty of time to talk football, but make it a point to learn more about the lives of your guests.
Participate
- If the 1 or 2 people listed above are throwing parties, you may want to join them instead. If so, bring drinks, food, or whatever is needed. Even stay behind to help them clean up.
- Restaurants and sports bars all across our city are going to be filled on Sunday evening. Consider hanging out with people at a local establishment.
Reflect Jesus
- Be a servant – there was no greater servant than our Lord. Identify needs, no matter how great or small, and be willing to be a servant this Sunday.
- Be generous – the Lord has given us all that we have needed for life and has done so with exceeding generosity. Seek ways to be generous in providing for others on Sunday.
- Be a friend – the Lord hasn’t befriended us out of obligation. He has genuine interest in our good. Ask the Lord to continually grow your heart for the people in your life.
- Be present – the Lord of the universe is never so occupied in “getting things done” that He doesn’t have time for us. Make it a point to spend time with your guests as your prepping for and enjoying the game on Sunday.
Pray
- Ask the Lord to bring people to mind. Ask Him to help you love them in the way He has loved you.
- Ask the Lord for opportunities to engage people. The Lord who has orchestrated all of history can surely provide you with a meaningful conversation.
- Ask the Lord to keep you dependent on Him. He is our strength, our wisdom, and our source for all that He has commanded.
Enjoy the game!
WE'VE MOVED! 