Touchdown

It’s that time of year again—football season. At my house, it’s all football all the time on the television. My husband is a huge fan. I join him on rare occasions during a big game. I don’t dislike football. I just have other things I prefer to do with my time.

One thing I will watch is a good football movie. One of my favorite inspirational sports films is Rudy. I have seen it numerous times, and it always makes me cry. It’s one of the most famous sports films ever made. The film is based on the true story of Rudy Ruettiger, a young man who dreamed of playing football for Notre Dame since he was a child. From time to time he would tell others of his dream, only to be laughed at. With poor grades in school, no money (one of fourteen children), and only 5’6”, Rudy had gigantic obstacles in his path.

During high school Rudy did play football. He joined the Navy after graduation, went to work for the local power plant for a couple of years, and then decided to pursue his dream. He applied to Notre Dame only to be rejected. He attended community college for two years and worked hard at raising his grades. During this time, he persisted in applying to Notre Dame. His fourth attempt was a success.

He didn’t make the football team, but he did make the practice squad. Still, he never gave up. In his senior year, in their final game, the coach put Rudy on the field. He had finally fulfilled his dream and even scored a sack. Beloved by his fellow teammates, he was carried off the field on their shoulders. Almost twenty years later, the now famous film Rudy was born. He travels the country inspiring others with his story.

Rudy reminds me a lot of another young boy who went up against a giant. He’s the famous David who went up against Goliath. He too was laughed at when he accepted Goliath’s challenge. But he didn’t let that stop him. He knew God would give him the victory no matter the odds against him. We all know how that story ends.

I believe we all have a calling. Sometimes it seems unachievable to others who may even laugh at us. But, when God places a calling on our lives and a dream in our hearts, he will help us achieve it. I truly believe that God can make the impossible, possible. Luke 18:27 says, “What’s impossible with man, is possible with God.”

Just like a football player who holds on to the ball for dear life, we need to hold on to what God has put in our hearts and not let go. He will help us overcome each obstacle along the way and get us over the goal line.