Every year the NFL concludes their season with the Super Bowl, the ‘Ultimate Game’! I wonder how the ‘ultimate game’ could played again every year, but that may explain why I am not the sports fan I once was. I thought Walter Cronkite (who was once the most trusted voice in news...when news voices could be trusted) put it in proper perspective when, years ago, the first Super Bowl was played at the Super Dome in New Orleans. Here was human arrogance at it’s best; the ultimate game, at the ultimate stadium with an opinion from the ultimate news voice (see what time has done to all). But, Walter did not disappoint. He looked into the face of the reporter and said, “I think it is fascinating to see this much attention and this many people focused on something that has no real historical significance whatsoever.” Way to go Walter! After all, it is just a game. Don’t miss the point. Sports and hobbies are not bad or wrong. In fact, they can be good and helpful. However, when we spend too much time and get too caught up and place out treasure in the wrong place…well someone far wiser than me (or even Walter Cronkite) said it better; “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…but store up treasures in heaven…For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:19-21)
It is vital that we never lose sight on what is of real value. Eternal things are the only things that have real value. They take priority over all else. All else should come as an afterthought or things to do when eternal things are settled and taken care of. I think of how much time I once spent in front of the mirror and money once used on hair spray or other items to make sure every hair was in it’s proper place and stayed that way. Now, that seems foolish since it is becoming easier to comb my hair with a wet rag and go. The point is this; we need to spend our time, energy and money on that which will be a lasting investment. According to Jesus, the only investments that will last are those that are eternal. What is eternal? Your salvation is eternal. Do all you can and invest all your time and energy to find Christ as your Lord and Savior. Then lead others to that same eternal treasure. You see the second thing that is eternal is relationships. Yes, you can carry relationships into eternity. Your relationship with your Heavenly Father, Jesus and the Holy Spirit will move into the next life. Although Jesus tells us that our relationships will be somewhat different in Heaven, we will no longer marry or be given in marriage, He also tells us that whatever we bind on earth will be bound in heaven. I believe that our relationships of love with our fellowman are meant to be eternal treasures. So, each day focus on the real important 'game' of life that is super and ultimate.
