Tim Tebow’s fame rests as much on his strong and very public evangelical faith as it does on his improbable success as a quarterback. Last summer I read his book, “Through My Eyes,” and then donated it to the high school library. I had it on good authority that when high school boys are assigned to read books they head for the sports section. This book would be a good one for them to read, even if it is apparent on every page that it was written by a 22 year old, but a 22 year old of strong character and strong, if youthful, faith.
The book chronicles the well known facts of his life: born of missionary parents in the Philippines to a mother who was told to abort the pregnancy for solid medical reasons (you may remember the pro-life TV ad they did during the last Super Bowl), home schooled in Florida, Heisman Trophy winner during phenomenal seasons at the University of Florida, and consistently being told that quarterback was not the position for him. Google his name and one of the most common hits involves the word “virgin” because at the end of a press conference in college a reporter, who was well aware of his evangelical faith, asked him if he was “saving himself for marriage” to which he simply said “yes” and the press erupted in incredulity and amazement.
This young man’s name has become a verb in the sports world because of his habit of dropping to one knee, putting his elbow on that knee and his fist on his forehead when he prays on the sideline. That’s what it means “to tebow.” (www.tebowing.com) This action has been imitated by thousands of yo
ung people, some in sincerity and a few in mockery. To his great credit Tebow says in the book that he does not believe God has an interest in the outcome of football games. Sports are entertainment and recreation, where winning and losing are not subject to divine intervention. God surely has more important things to deal with, like the plight of orphans in the Philippines. Anyone who reads his book discovers Tebow’s success is not God’s doing but the result of relentless hard work ever since he started playing football. Tebow writes that he is puzzled that some other players do not spend more time working out, studying the game, and lifting weights. His work ethic is amazing and a good example for other young men.However, Tebow does pray publicly, even at games, and does speak openly and often about his faith in Jesus Christ, which delights many and irritates a few. One former Broncos quarterback said he wishes Tebow would just “shut up” about religion. But others have rushed to his defense. On ESPN one night former Vikings quarterback Fran Tarkington noted that many sports celebrities use their fame “to sell shoes,” so what is wrong with a Christian who uses his fame to witness to his faith in Jesus Christ? And he doesn’t get paid to do this.
Each one of us has a place in life where we are able to influence others for the good or for the dark side of life. Only a few have such a platform that their words and actions are the subject of TV coverage and internet searches, but everyone has someone who is listening and watching. Everyone has some opportunity to bear witness to the light, just as John the Baptist did when Jesus appeared. Without being obnoxious or heavy handed, everyone can witness.
The first bishop of the Northwestern Minnesota Synod, Harold Lohr, used to end his visits with clergy by saying with a wry smile, “Don’t forget to put in a good word for Jesus.” That’s good advice. Wherever you are and whenever you can, using whatever your station in life is, bear witness to the Light of the World, Jesus Christ this Epiphany.
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