The Ultimate Showdown: Super Bowl vs. Return of Christ
The Ultimate Showdown: Super Bowl vs. Return of Christ
By Michael E. Wheelon, Revelation Watchers Contributor
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Introduction: The Countdown Begins
As this year's Super Bowl has just passed, the excitement and anticipation have waned. Yet, amidst the fervor of the game, let's pause to consider a different countdown—one of eternal significance. While fans geared up with team jerseys and snacks, have you ever pondered investing that same enthusiasm into your spiritual journey? Join us as we delve into the analogy of Christ's return and its implications for our lives.
1. The Countdown: Anticipation and Preparation
Super Bowl
The excitement for the Super Bowl builds up weeks before the actual game. Fans eagerly watch teams compete for the playoffs, with some aiming for the top spot and the advantage of playing on their home field, while others hope to secure the last wild card spot. Fans mark their calendars, discuss game strategies, and analyze opponents’ plays. Nowadays, you can even place bets online on almost every possible event that could take place during the game.
Return of Christ
According to Scripture, the exact hour of Christ's return is unknown. However, we are called to live in anticipation and preparedness for His arrival. Like a spiritual halftime show, we should reflect on our lives, repent, and align ourselves with God's purpose. Scripture Reference:
Matthew 24:36 (NIV)
“But about that day or hour, no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”
2. The Game-Day Gear: Cost and Sacrifice
Super Bowl
Sports fans support their favorite teams or players by dressing in team colors, jerseys, and face paint. They often wear lucky socks and wave foam fingers and signs while cheering. Tailgating parties are familiar, featuring grilling, burgers, and camaraderie. Overall, it's a time of celebration for all.
Return of Christ
Our spiritual gear consists of the armor of God: truth, righteousness, faith, salvation, and the Word (Ephesians 6:10-18). In his writing, Paul compared the armor of God and the armor worn by a Roman soldier of his time. Just as football players put on their gear to prepare for a game, we put on our spiritual armor to engage in battle against Satan and his forces of darkness.
While Super Bowl tickets and merchandise can be expensive, the cost Christ paid was immeasurable - the cross and His blood shed for our redemption. Scripture Reference:
Ephesians 6:13 (NIV)
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.”
3. The Halftime Show: Spectacle and Significance
Super Bowl
The halftime show mesmerizes with a star-studded lineup, breathtaking pyrotechnics, and stunning choreography. It's an extraordinary performance that captivates millions of viewers.
Return of Christ
The second coming of Christ will be the ultimate halftime show, with the King of Kings descending from the heavens and no fireworks or pop stars involved (1 Thessalonians 4:16). Scripture Reference:
1 Thessalonians 4:16 (NIV)
“For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first.”
4. The Victory Celebration: Earthly vs. Eternal
Super Bowl
After winning the championship, the winning team celebrates by hoisting the Lombardi Trophy, chanting victory cheers, and proclaiming, "We're going to Disney World!" Meanwhile, fans take to the streets to celebrate.
Return of Christ
The ultimate victory belongs to Christ. He will gather His faithful, and we will join the heavenly chorus. No earthly parade can compare to the eternal celebration in God's presence. Scripture Reference:
Revelation 21:4 (NIV)
“He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.”
Conclusion: Priorities Beyond the Gridiron
As we recall Super Bowl LVIII, let's remember that our true championship lies in being ready for Christ's return. While VIP booth prices soar in Las Vegas, let us invest in our eternal souls. Here's our game plan:
Prayer: Communicate with God daily. Seek His guidance and strength.
Reading His Word: Dive into Scripture. It's our playbook for life.
Loving One Another: Be part of the winning team by loving unconditionally.
And even though the Super Bowl was in Sin City, remember that Jesus forgave us of all sin. Our priorities matter—let's gear up for the ultimate victory.
Michael E. Wheelon, a retired GG-14, held distinguished roles in security, counterintelligence, and special program oversight at the Special Access Programs Division, Headquarters Air Force Space Command, Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado Springs, Colorado. Previously, as a Senior Master Sergeant (SMSgt) in the Air, Space, and Cyber Directorate, Space Superiority Division, he supervised Counterspace Operations at Peterson Air Force Base. With a military career spanning 31 countries and seven deployments, Wheelon fulfilled critical roles, including heavy weapons operator, high-frequency voice communications operator, ground station operator for high-valued space platforms, and signals intelligence instructor. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information and Networking Operations from Chapman University and a master’s certification in Executive Leadership from the University of Notre Dame, along with several certifications such as the Senior Command Management Civilian Certification Course and the Secretary of the Air Forces’ Program Security Officer (PSO) Certification Course. Wheelon's accolades include numerous Airman and NCO of the Year awards and a Finalist nomination for the USAF's 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year. Following retirement, he teaches at a Bible College in Black Mountain, North Carolina, and contributes to Paul Begley Ministries. Outside his professional pursuits, Wheelon enjoys drumming, backpacking, skiing, ice climbing, and spending time with his wife, Shelley, and their dog, Boo.
More Bible scriptures about Jesus Christ's return for inspiration and encouragement:
Matthew 24:30-31 (NIV):
"Then will appear the sign of the Son of Man in heaven. And then all the peoples of the earth will mourn when they see the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory. And he will send his angels with a loud trumpet call, and they will gather his elect from the four winds, from one end of the heavens to the other."
1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 (NIV):
"For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever."
Revelation 22:12 (NIV):
"Look, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to each person according to what they have done."
Revelation 1:7 (NIV):
"Look, he is coming with the clouds,' and 'every eye will see him, even those who pierced him'; and all peoples on earth 'will mourn because of him.' So shall it be! Amen."
These scriptures remind us of the promise of Jesus' return, the anticipation of that glorious day, and the encouragement to be faithful and ready for his coming.
Matthew 24:42-44 (NIV):
"Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him."
Titus 2:13 (NIV):
"while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ."
Revelation 22:20 (NIV):
"He who testifies to these things says, 'Yes, I am coming soon.' Amen. Come, Lord Jesus."Luke 21:27 (NIV):
"At that time they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory."
These scriptures serve as a reminder of the certainty of Christ's return, the need for readiness and watchfulness, and the hope and encouragement we have in the promise of his coming.
A Prayer In Reflection: The Ultimate Showdown - Super Bowl vs. Return of Christ
Dear Heavenly Father,
As we gather to reflect on the events of our world, we are reminded of the distractions and attractions that capture our attention. Today, we bring before you the comparison between the spectacle of the Super Bowl and the imminent return of Your Son, Jesus Christ.
We ask for wisdom and discernment as we explore this topic, that our hearts may be open to Your truth and our minds enlightened by Your Word. Help us to recognize the importance of keeping our focus on eternal matters amidst the temporal excitement of earthly events.
May this article serve as a gentle nudge for readers to reflect on their priorities and consider the profound significance of Christ's return. Let it inspire a deeper longing for His coming Kingdom and a renewed commitment to living faithfully in anticipation of that glorious day.
We entrust this article into Your hands, Lord, asking that it may bring honor and glory to Your name. May it spark conversations, stir hearts, and ultimately draw souls closer to You.
In Jesus' holy mighty name, we pray. Amen.
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