As to the ad itself, I’m amazed by the heated debate it has caused even before its debut. The pro-choice movement hasn’t had the opportunity to see it, but they have voiced their opposition so forcefully that CBS may pull the ad even before it is aired. (So much for “freedom of speech”…)
At any rate, Tebow, who plays for the Florida Gators, has already developed a reputation not only as a top-notch football player, but also as a man of faith. Tebow often adds a special touch to his uniform as he prepares for a game. In the “eye black” used by football players to reduce glare, you can often read the citation for one of Tebow’s favorite Bible verses. Here are some of the verses he has proclaimed using this unusual method:
John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish but have everlasting life."
Mark 8:36 - "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?"
John 16:33 - "These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world."
Ephesians 2:8-10 - “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
James 1:2-4 - “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.”
In a sport where machismo reigns, you’ve got to admire the man for having the courage to wear his faith and his convictions out front for all to see.
As I think about this, I wonder… When people look at me, what do they see? Can they tell that I’m a Christian? Do my words and actions reveal my faith, or do they betray it?
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And please visit Jen's place, Conversion Diary, for 7 Quick Takes
And please visit Jen's place, Conversion Diary, for 7 Quick Takes
This young man is certainly lead by the Spirit! Thanks be to God! Have a grand day!!! CAthy
ReplyDeleteTebow's message is, indeed, powerful. We're eager to see the ad (nothing we have read indicates that CBS is seriously considering pulling the ad).
ReplyDeleteOne note: whether the ad runs has nothing to do with freedom of speech. The "free speech" clause of the 1st Amendment to the Constitution says that "Congress shall make no law... abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press or of the people freely to assemble." Congress is not running or pulling the Tebow ad, nor is any other branch of the government. If CBS were to pull the ad (again, unlikely) and you were to argue that the decision is a voilation of "Free speech" then you had better be prepared for your local Catholic newspaper or EWTN to run pro-choice ads under the same arguement.
I don't wish to be argumentative or unkind here; I simply think that these matters (life, and the Bill of Rights) are essential and deserve debate that is factual and well-reasoned.
Peace to your day.