God's Coaching #251

God's Coaching #251

You had to feel a little sorry for Donovan McNabb. Philadelphia Eagles fans didn’t even give him a chance. In 1999, a group of Eagles fans traveled to New York City for the NFL Draft. Philadelphia had the second overall pick, and many of its fans—including the rowdy group in New York—were hoping the team would select Ricky Williams, the dynamic running back from the University of Texas. Instead, the Eagles chose Donovan, a quarterback from Syracuse.

As soon as the selection was announced, the Eagles fans booed. Yep, that’s right. Before Donovan had a chance to prove himself, he was met with frustrated, cynical jeers. It was the start of a complicated love-hate relationship between Donovan and the team’s fans.

There were plenty of good times. From 1999 through 2009, Donovan became the most successful quarterback in Eagles history by setting the team’s all-time records for pass attempts, completions, yards, and touchdowns. During his 11 seasons in Philadelphia, he went to six Pro Bowls and led the Eagles to six play-off appearances and one Super Bowl. But some fans never fully embraced Donovan since he failed to win a championship. Before the 2010 season, the Eagles traded him to their NFC East rival, the Washington Redskins.

What’s the Score?

Did Donovan deserve the boos and negative fan reaction over the years? Probably not, given his overall performance. Most NFL quarterbacks would love to have his career numbers and accomplishments. But nobody ever said NFL fans were fair.

It’s the same for followers of Jesus. The Bible says that Christians will be teased, persecuted, and even hated—all because of their faith. If you are willing to talk about Jesus publicly, you should expect negative reactions. It might not be fair, but that’s the way this sinful, messed-up world works. Jesus warned his disciples of this in John 17. As funny as it sounds, being persecuted for your faith is a good thing. When people treat you unkindly for your faith, it means you are different from the world. And that is exactly what God calls you to be (John 17:15-17). Donovan didn’t let the boos stop him from doing well in the NFL. Neither should we in our Christian lives.

On the Ball

Pray that God would give you the strength and courage to honor him when people make fun of you for your faith.

Coach’s Comment

I have given them your word. And the world hates them because they do not belong to the world, just as I do not belong to the world. John 17:14