Monday, April 18, 2016

Devotion 4.19.16

It is said that this is the first year in many years (1969-70 season in fact) that there are no Canadian teams in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Canadian fans of the game, home of where it was invented they claim, are in disbelief.  The USA Today ran an article yesterday titled "Canadian fans are coping with no teams in the Stanley Cup playoffs" (Kevin Allen, USA Today, April 18, 2016) in which one fan said, "“Part of our patriotism is living and breathing everything that is hockey.”

As Texans, we can relate, because we invented football to hear it told, and there hasn't been a serious contender for the Super Bowl since the 1990s (sorry Dallas fans, we aren't counting two years ago, there is a difference between fluke and serious).  Yet how we act as fans during such trying times as these says much about who we are.  Of course, we all chant that same phrase, regardless of sport, "Wait until next year." (As an Astros' fan, that phrase is old and I'm tired of hearing it.)

On a more serious topic, Peter talks to the faithful in his letter and speaks of the trial we face as Christians.  "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.  But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.  If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you." (1 Peter 4:12 - 14)

We pray that when we are tested or tempted, we turn to God and ask for his Spirit to rest upon us.  As we endure tribulation, we as that Christ's love and grace radiate through us.

Hope Men's Ministry

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