By Ben Chapman
I am a huge Chiefs fan. I lived as a little boy within earshot of the stadiums. I cheered for Christian Okoye, Derrick Thomas, Neil Smith, Priest Holmes, and now Patrick Mahomes. Many have been asking me how I feel about the game and how it went. I have my thoughts. But it is, after all, just a game. This team and these names are fun to follow, but the trajectory of my life is not set by them. I am a fan. I am not consumed. There is a better Name.
“Therefore, God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth.” (Philippians 2:9-10)
There is a name that is above every name. There is a subject of adoration who actually deserves it. Who Jesus is, and what Jesus has done, wins for him accolades far beyond a man who makes millions to throw or catch pigskin. A great quarterback might throw a long pass and rescue his team from the brink of a loss. Jesus offered His life to save His people from their sins.
My daughter posted on social media this week that, just like in football, if the pastor says something good, someone should pour Gatorade on his head. I don’t know about that, but if someone deserves celebration, it ought to be the one who won victory over death. No Gatorade needed. Just bow your knee. His name is above every name. He is highly exalted. He did not win seven big games, or even one. He did empty Himself, take on human form, offer Himself and redeem His people. May there be no name we lift higher in any circumstance. His name is above every name!
Benjamin Chapman is pastor of the First Baptist Church of Perryville. He may be reached by phone at 573-547-4644 or by email at bechappy@gmail.com.
