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CHOOSE YOUR TEAM

As college football fans know, one of the most important days of the sport comes every February. Last week, there were no tackles made, no touchdowns scored, and no victories on the field. But on Wednesday, February 2, the best high school football seniors officially decided which colleges they would suit-up for beginning next season.

For many months these players have "verbally committed" to the college of their choice. But at Wednesday, 7AM, they could make their choice official by signing a letter of intent. Recruiting gurus across the country agree that Florida, Tennessee, Florida State, Texas, and Alabama were the top teams in the recruiting wars.

This year the recruit who made the most news surrounding his signing was not the top quarterback, fastest running back, or biggest linebacker. Instead it was 6-foot-8, 285-pound high school All-America offensive lineman, Jonathon Colon, who was in the news.

Colon was not highlighted for his skills or great potential (though he does have both), but because he signed an official letter of intent with two teams, the Miami (Fla.) Hurricanes and the Florida Gators.

Can you imagine Colon suiting up for both teams? Neither could the two teams. You can only play for one team. There is no commuting between Gainesville and Miami to satisfy the player's indecision. He must either be a Hurricane or a Gator.

As Christians, our actions sometimes may lead others to be confused as to which team we play for. Are we on God's team or are we on our own team? Who are we really living for? God? Ourselves? Money? Others?

Jesus hammered the point home when he said, "No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money" (Matthew 6:24).

Jonathan Colon's unclear commitment was resolved when it was determined that he had signed too early with Miami. The NCAA upheld his commitment to Florida. He will be a Florida Gator.

As for you, the decision is yours. Make your commitment clear today. Choose your team. "If it is disagreeable in your sight to serve the LORD, choose for yourselves today whom you will serve: whether the gods which your fathers served which were beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living; but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD (Joshua 24:15).

Christ my Coach,

Steve Teel