EMERGING FROM PHYSICAL COLLAPSE
On January 2, during a Monday Night Football game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Buffalo Bills, Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin made a routine tackle on Bengals’ receiver Tee Higgins. Both players got up, but Hamlin suddenly collapsed. Medical staff rushed to the field, where they determined that his heart was not beating. First responders administered CPR, and Hamlin was rushed to a local hospital, where he remained in a coma in intensive care. Over the next three days, not just the world of pro football but most of the nation hung on scraps of updates. Finally, to the relief of all, Hamlin emerged from the coma and showed no sign of lasting injury to his mental or physical capacities. “We’re not promised anything,” said NFL great Tom Brady, reflecting on Hamlin’s injury and recovery, “none of us are…. Let’s not take anything for granted,” he said. “Nothing’s forever.”
EMERGING FROM SPIRITUAL COLLAPSE
The land of Judah had been devastated by a plague of locusts because of the disobedience of God’s people. But even though the Lord had sent His army to devastate their fields as in the Day of the Lord, He nevertheless promised to be with them and to bless them in the future. His discipline was not forever, and His mercy remained for those who worship Him. God promised that Judah would emerge from that disaster and once again praise Him.
Questions
- What is the most serious injury you’ve heard about in sporting events?
- When has something happened that has reminded you that there are more important things than what we often get so worked up about?
- How often do you think about God’s discipline on those He loves?
