Fellowship and Football
By Karen Dyke, Deacon
“Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” (Hebrews 10:23)
Growing up in Colorado, watching football was a common Sunday activity. If the game was on, and by game I mean the Broncos, a vast majority of the state was watching. But since moving to Oahu in 2004, I have not been able to watch as much Sunday football as I would like (sigh), and then came this pandemic!
When our church was meeting in person, I did not have to watch a game each week. Attending Sunday morning worship services and Life Training classes, lunches after services, and serving on the prayer team was what I needed. When the pandemic started in March, I was hosting an Alpha (Course) group at The Vine. This ministry quickly moved to online, and then online worship services started. I had community and stayed connected with my brothers and sisters in Christ. God really knows what we need at just the right time.
But as the months wore on, my soul became weary. I felt isolated. I missed my parents back in Colorado, and in-person gatherings seemed like a thing of the past. A saving grace was when NFL football started! Who would have thought that during COVID-19, when I can’t eat with a group larger than 5, it would be okay to have a stadium full of football players and coaches! My friends have a fantasy football league, and this was going to be our second year. Jeff Post, our league manager, texted all of us to see if we were interested again. Sign me up!
This gave me my much-needed fellowship again. Just being on a text thread with 10 friends was an outlet to be social. Knowing there are people all over the county watching the same game at the same time is comforting. Now Sunday afternoon phone calls with my dad are all about the games. This was far better than when we discussed the news or other heavy topics. In a time of isolation and uncertainty, I was filled again with community.
God’s timing is always right. When life becomes too much and depression or anxiety find their way in, it is important to take a pause and pray. This COVID season, or any other season, is not forever. God has brought me through many challenging times. He has carried me over to the other side. I am expectant of what God has in store next!
Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You so much for knowing the desires of my heart. You know what I need, and answer my prayers in ways I never thought! Your love sustains me through the challenges and hardships of this world. Thank You for bringing me community when I feel lonely, peace in despair, and for your everlasting love. Amen.
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