UNPACK This...Chiefs vs. 49ers Super Bowl LIVSýnishorn

Playing In The Snow   

During week 15 of the regular season, the Chiefs won a key game against division rival Denver Broncos. Winning 23-3, the Chiefs started to regain some momentum with the playoffs quickly approaching. 

Beyond how well they played, I think there’s a lesson to unpack about the joy they showed while playing in the snow. Despite the cold, most players seem to enjoy diving for first downs in the snow and making snow angels after touchdowns. 

Before this important divisional matchup even started, Chiefs players were packing snowballs for a childlike snowball fight. Chiefs wide receiver, Demarcus Robinson, got the fun started and his teammates joined in by tossing snowballs back at him.

We know players take football seriously and they’re making millions of dollars, but it’s always refreshing to see the snow bring out the kid in them. There’s something freeing about being childlike and what’s significant, is how childlike qualities are encouraged by Jesus when it comes to our faith.

Matthew 18:2-4 tells us, “He called a little child to Him, and placed the child among them. And He said: ‘Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven.’”

Of course, we’re always supposed to be growing and maturing in our faith, however, the wonderment, humility, trust, and joy of a child are worth keeping. Unfortunately, as we get older we tend to trade those characteristics for negativity, cynicism, uptightness, and boringness and can easily lose our excitement, anticipation, and awe.

But Jesus gives us an important reminder when talking to His disciples in Mark 10:14-15: ”’…Let the children come to Me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of God belongs to those who are like these children. I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn’t receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.’” 

Today, let’s rest in the freeing truth that we’re children of a wonderful Heavenly Father. Let’s continue to become mature believers of Christ, but with the fresh childlike faith, He greatly values.

I’m Bryce Johnson and you can UNPACK that!

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I’m so thankful to be Your child. Help me to live in a way that reflects that - filled with wonderment, joy, and excitement. I place my full trust in You. In Jesus’ name, I pray Amen.

For more sports and faith devotionals, visit unpackinit.com.