Appearance of Defeat: Superbowl Stories

Appearance of Defeat

Last night, history was made on the football field as the New England Patriots faced the Atlanta Falcons for Super Bowl 51. As news began trickling in early in the game, the Patriots appeared to have lost their edge; the appearance of defeat began to rise. Some even thought about shutting off the game at half-time, not able to watch.

No one could have foreseen the outcome of last night’s game. The Patriots rose out of the ash heap to overcome the appearance of defeat. In first ever fashion, the Falcons and the Patriots found themselves in overtime.

And the Patriots emerged from their slumber to win an unprecedented victory

The whole world was watching.

And this morning, the whole world is telling the story.

And this morning, the whole world is telling the story. #SuperBowl51 Share on X

Tom Brady is being hailed as a hero, overcomer, and the best quarterback ever. The world is laughing in the face of deflate-gate because nothing could keep this team down. Nothing could tarnish Brady’s talent or devotion to his team.

The New England Patriots overcame all odds to attain victory.

As I think about the excitement and the unifying effect of it all, I can’t help but think about another appearance of failure and loss.

Overcoming all odds to win the victory. That's a story to tell. Share on X

2,000 years ago Jesus appeared to have lost His edge. His followers scattered. The naysayers got louder. Sentenced to death for empty accusations.

He hung on a cross – a criminal’s death. It appeared He had lost. Satan fist-pumped the air in victory, and smirked at the circumstances.

They placed the dead body of Jesus in a cold tomb and rolled the stone over the opening.

Failure seemed evident. How could He save anyone now?

But in the dark tomb, where Satan seemed to have won, God’s power moved.

And in an unprecedented victory, Jesus rose from the grave. He overcame failure. He overcame death. And He overcame sin, once and for all.

Jesus came from behind, and won the game of the world’s redemption because of God’s love and grace.

Eyewitnesses were amazed. Lives transformed. And the world has never been the same. History has been telling the story for those who will hear. Those whose lives have been changed and touched by His power have shared their stories too.

This victory gets me excited enough to shout louder than any football fan.

Will you see it?

Will you tell His story of victory?

Will you make this YOUR story too?

Often the appearance of defeat brings unimaginable glory!

Often the appearance of defeat brings unimaginable glory! #Superbowl51 #OvercomeDeath Share on X

How have your shared your victories with others?

Jeanne

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Images courtesy of Morguefile.com

 

 

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