Am I Really a Fan?

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I am a Los Angeles Laker’s fan.  That is what I claim, but don’t test my fan prowess!  No riddling me with questions like these:  Who are their starters this year?  What is their record?  Are they going to make the playoffs?

But I am a fan of the Lakers.  I know all of their history.  I grew up loving the Lakers.  I could do Kareem’s hook shot as a 10 year old boy.  I could pass like Magic.  I watched them any chance I got.  I was a big fan through the 2000s.  I followed Shaq and Kobe winning championships and squabbling like little kids.  I liked how Pat and Phil coached the Lakers and watched as many games as I could.  I am a big fan.

But when was the last time I watched a Laker’s game?  When was the last time I checked their box score or read the story of last night’s game?  Well, we wouldn’t want to go there!  I have gotten busy. I don’t have the time to watch the games. The players aren’t as interesting to me and the team isn’t as good.  They are a far cry from those winning years.  My own life has changed.  I have four kids, a full-time job, a small farm, and no cable TV!   But I am still a fan!

Does this sound familiar to how many, and maybe even you, talk about God?  You grew up active in church and a part of all the activities.  You were a big believer!  But times have changed.  The church has changed.  You have changed.  You are busy with your own life and many responsibilities.  You want your Sunday for rest and family time.  You don’t have time to read the Bible.  But you are still a believer!  You are still a fan!  You still perceive of yourself in the same light as before, but if you were to really test your faith, you would fail!  You haven’t been to church in years. You don’t read your Bible.  You don’t even pray, except when you are desperate.  You claim to be a part of the church, but half the folks there wouldn’t even know you.

Am I really a Laker’s fan today?  At best, i am a pathetic excuse for one and make no difference for the team.  Are you a believer, or are you just a pathetic fan of God?  Be honest!  (2 Cor. 13:5)