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"Serious sport has nothing to do with fair play…it is war minus the shooting."

George Orwell

Perspective

Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s. (Mark 12:17)

Jesus’ words on taxes can be applied to sport as well. Sport is important to many of us. That is OK. Give sport its place but ensure too that you give God his rightful place. See sport as a gift from God and be thankful but don’t let sport become a God.

There is a banner which is often displayed at Manchester United’s Old Trafford ground: “Manchester United the religion”. For many, sport is a religion, an obsession. Jesus was a real man. He messed about on boats; he attended a wedding celebration; he interacted with local people. He would not have been against sport. He would have sought balance, perspective.

Matthew records Jesus’ words: But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. (Matthew 6:32-34)

Jesus encountered a rich young man. The dialogue included the following: Jesus: “One thing you lack, he said. Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me”. At this the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth. (Mark 10:21-22). As you think about sport and what it means to us, let us think priority and perspective. If our attitude is right, there should be no conflict between faith and sport.

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