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“Don’t throw the ball in the house!” During my growing-up years, I can’t tell you how many times I heard this said. My brother and I may have been throwing a Nerf football or an old tennis ball; I remember as an eight-year-old I threw a golf ball, broke something and then pulled “an Adam” by telling my folks that I knew nothing about the shattered glass in the bedroom. These days as a father of three active daughters, the phrase “don’t throw the ball in the house” now gets tossed from my direction. There must be something about throwing a ball indoors and playing outside games inside!
Several months ago the Patton family shared with me a newsletter piece entitled “Football in Church” from Jack’s brother Steve who is a United Methodist pastor. From this perspective, church folks are at times tempted to play “football-like” games inside the worship arena. See if any of the following feel familiar.
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Quarterback Sneak – Church members sneaking out during the final hymn.
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Draw Play – What most children do with Sunday’s worship bulletin.
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Half-time – The period between Sunday School and worship when some people choose to leave.
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Benchwarmer – A person who sits, soaks and sours, yet never serves.
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Backfield in Motion – Making a trip to the back of the church (for a restroom or water break) during key points in the service.
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Staying in the Pocket – What happens to many folks’ tithes and offerings which are called to be given to the Lord.
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Two-Minute Warning – The point just before the sermon ends when you gather your children and belongings thinking about what you are going to do the rest of the day.
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Instant Replay – The preacher loses his notes and is forced to fall back on last week’s illustrations.
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Sudden Death – What happens to the congregation if the preacher’s sermon goes “overtime.”
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Trap Play – Being called on to pray when you least expect it.
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End Run – Getting out of church quickly in order not to speak to any visitors or members.
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Flex Defense – The ability to allow absolutely nothing said in the sermon to affect your life.
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The Blitz – The rush for the restaurants following the benediction.
We are a football loving community. From the recreational league to high school, from college to the pros, the families of our church enjoy a ballgame atmosphere. My wish is that all of your favorite teams win this weekend. My prayer is that our worship times, discipleship times and ministry time do not become an occasion of “throwing the ball in the Lord’s house.” I’m glad that we are on the Lord’s team together.
See You Sunday,
Pastor Jay
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