January 2, 2026
From time to time, a bit of fun and games are needed to entertain us all. This afternoon was one of those times. Afterall, Navy was playing Cincinnati in the Liberty Bowl. While my wife and I are almost always united, like 99.99999% of the time, during the 3½ hours of this game, our house was divided. (Don’t worry, it was just fun & games, and all.)
I mean, who were we to cheer for? We’re a Navy family; you know me, I’m a Navy vet and our oldest daughter is active-duty Navy. Yet on the other side of the ball there’s the bearcat side of the family: our youngest daughter and son-in-law. There’s was a Bearcat betrothal; they’re alumni and Bearcats for life. In our house, we cheer for both. But this morning, I said, “Put up your dukes honey; it’s gonna be Navy over UC!”
Only one team could come out on top. Were the football gods willing it to be the honorable Midshipmen from Navy, or those gangsta Bearcats from UC? (In the end, Navy dominated, 35–13. Yah, boy! GO NAVY!) Of course, football is just a fun game, but what comes later in life, that’s far more than game.
I get it, the NCAA and NFL are BIG business; there’s a lot on the line for people who make a living from the sport. But, at the end of the day, none of what’s happening on the gridiron cures cancer, moves mountains, or saves lives. At best, some players glorify the Lord player, and prayerfully their testimonies will make a difference in this world. But beyond the field of play lies the field of life where the true difference will be made.
From team Navy, some will become pilots, some Marines, and others like my daughter will drive ships and submarines. They will all command men and women and defend our lives abroad and here on the homeland. On the UC side, a fortunate few will go on to the NFL; more still will enter the workforce and hopefully better society in whatever endeavors come their way. After football, the game of life will take another turn.
The lives of those players, coaches and staff are what truly matters; for although they entertain us, what awaits them won’t always be fun and games. For, the journey to eternity isn’t usually fun, and it’s certainly never a game.
At the end of the day, I think it’s good to thank the Lord for things such as fun and games, just like the UC-Navy football game. For 3 ½ hours, the Midshipmen and Bearcats entertained with all their body, soul, and strength. But beyond today’s game, what’s most important are the souls these men.
I thank the good Lord for today’s fun-and-games. Danielle and I were certainly entertained. Beyond this game, though, I pray the Lord God give each player the strength and character of heart as they enter the gridiron of life.
Heavenly Father, watch over each man and recruit them to your side. Bring them all safely to heaven, were through Christ, they’ll be victorious in life. I thank you for each man, and I thank you for the game the played today that entertained us for a while.