Unmet Expectations

For days the excitement has been mounting; the long anticipated evening has finally arrived—it’s Super Bowl time! However, what started out as a pleasurable evening has now turned into a nightmare. The reason, I’m watching my favorite football team struggle. They are getting beat by turnovers, the pass rush, and poor defensive execution. They are simply being outplayed.  Needless to say this is frustrating and disappointing.  Quite frankly my expectations are being shattered. I knew Denver’s opponent was strong but what I’m seeing is unbelievable. Praying for a miraculous comeback is tempting but I don’t really think God cares who wins, not to mention all of the Seattle fans who are praying for things to continue as they are.  Simply put this confirms the old adage that says, “On any given day the best of teams is beatable.”  Being beaten is one thing, but totally embarrassed is another.  At least it will not be a shut-out since Peyton just threw for a touchdown.  Am I unhappy about the events of the evening? Yes! Am I tempted to switch teams? No way! Why? There will be plenty of future victories to celebrate.  And although I don’t like to think about it, I realize that our spiritual lives reflect the same pattern at times. Just when we begin to depend upon our talents, giftedness, and seasonal successes we run into that formidable opponent. Maybe that’s why Paul said we are to take heed when it appears we are standing (playing well) lest we also fall—or get beaten. Greater still is the fact that God watches it all. When on the field of play, sweating, pushing, and exerting all of our energy the Father sits in the stands cheering us on.  He knows we are struggling but rarely intervenes. Could He miraculously give us a win? Sure! But He would rather we learn a valuable lesson.  The expectations of our fans and those of ourselves are often thwarted when we face the unexpected challenges of life. Yet we never give up! Denver’s team, coaching staff and management although disappointed will go back home regroup and prepare for next season. They will not be disenfranchised or forsaken.  God treats us the same way. He loves us no less and offers only words of encouragement. Looking at the score it appears the enemy is winning, however the game we’re playing goes far beyond four quarters. Unmet expectations today will be turned into incredible victories tomorrow for “we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us and gave His life for us.”