THE New Year

One of the perks of having an understanding wife is that I get to watch as much football during the holidays as I can handle. I try not to abuse this privilege. I also make sure I sprinkle these days with plenty of dinners and conversation.

Occasionally, Judy will join me ... not so much to watch football, but to do something together. It's kind of refreshing to see - what has become for me "old hat" - these games through new eyes. One aspect that has her shaking her head is the "introductions" of the offensive and defensive teams, especially in the pro games. The players - who for the most part - glare at the camera ... state their name and the university they attended. There are a few - who relish their roles as rebels - that give the name of their high school or junior high. Then, there are those who choose to use a special moniker for their school. We hear of players being from "The 'U'" (University of Miami) or "THE Ohio State University."

I'm reminded that for all the school spirit and bravado ... the Hurricanes of Miami or Buckeyes of Ohio State have (and will in the future) fall on hard times. The game of football is not one for dynasties. Fortunes and the won/lost records change from year to year.

It reminds me of Jeremiah's words - "Thus says the LORD, 'Let not a wise man boast of his wisdom, and let not the mighty man boast of his might, let not a rich man boast of his riches; but let him who boasts boast of this, that he understands and knows Me, that I am the LORD who exercises lovingkindness, justice and righteousness on earth; for I delight in these things,' declares the LORD" Jeremiah 9:23-24 (NASB).

My boast of knowing God only comes to reality through my actions. My words and my deeds either confirm that I am changed by knowing God or they show a lie. How sad it is to live with this boast, but be living a lie.

Knowing God starts with a humble heart that says "I don't know, but I want to know." Although I am grateful for all my education and knowledge ... I "know" that I have only scratched the surface. And, I look forward to knowing much more and being known.

"To the faithful, You show Yourself faithful, to the blameless, You show Yourself blameless, to the pure You show Yourself pure, but to the crooked You show Yourself shrewd." 2 Samuel 22:26-27 (NIV)

2 Samuel 20-22