It is almost here: the Big Game is on Sunday. Your preparations may have already begun. Food, refreshments, team jersey…all set. Football is an American tradition, and many view the Big Game as an unofficial national holiday. It will likely attract 100 million or more viewers. It may not seem like it at first, but there are parallels between football and our spiritual lives! Each demands our focus, attention and dedication; each takes preparation to grow and improve; each requires constant practice and perseverance; each involves a team or a family atmosphere in which we encourage and support one another. All of this leads to an ultimate goal. On earth some desire trophies--but in our faith we reach for, and hopefully, with the grace of God achieve, eternal life.