A Dramatic Turn of Events

Whether you’re a football fan or not, Super Bowl 51 was an epic game for the ages. Against all odds, the New England Patriots turned a seemingly hopeless situation into a record-setting comeback victory!

For those of us living in New England, the hoopla following the Patriots’ historic win was inescapable. Colorful Pats jerseys replaced the normal dress codes at local businesses, Patriots flags flew proudly on homes and storefronts, and quarterback Tom Brady secured his superhuman status amongst all New Englanders.

But not every Patriots fan was satisfied.

A neighbor of mine cringed when I mentioned the game. “Ughhh…” he groaned with a pained expression. “The Pats were so far behind — the whole thing just seemed completely hopeless! I didn’t want to watch them lose, so I changed the channel and fell asleep on the couch. I woke up an hour later... my phone was buzzing like crazy. Every text said the same thing: the Patriots had won! It was all over! The biggest comeback in Super Bowl history! And I MISSED THE WHOLE THING!”

I commiserated with him, but honestly, his scenario wasn’t unusual. Other dispirited fans had checked out early, only to miss the dramatic turn of events.

This story might resonate with Christians in a spiritual sense as well. We know God can do anything – even the miraculous! However, we don’t always expect it, or wait for it. When things aren’t going our way, our emotions can take over. Disappointments create feelings of hopelessness. We no longer present our hearts to God with a spirit of optimism and trust. We abandon our confidence in His ability to turn things around, and instead burden ourselves with dire presumptions.

For you, it might be a struggling marriage… or an arduous job… or a strained / painful family relationship. It’s so easy to lose hope — but remember, the game’s not over! “Changing the channel” may cause you to miss out on a chance to see God orchestrate a dramatic turn of events. He can reignite the flame in your marriage; He can turn your job situation around; He can restore your family relationships.

Are we tuned in to all the possibilities in God’s game-plan?

Ephesians 3:20 -- “Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.”

- Ron Reid