Hockey is an exciting sport! In fact, the games are known for engendering disputes and violence – both on the ice and among spectators.
Most hockey violence is unavoidable: players hurl across the ice at top speeds resulting in high-impact collisions. Pucks are propelled to tremendous speeds by sticks which could serve as weapons in peasant uprisings. Woe unto those who get into the path of either!
Dr. Cynthia’s mother was Canadian with a typical fondness for hockey. Understandably, several members of the family play hockey. As a result, not only have they dedicated much of their free time to games and practices – after school and summer camps – but their bodies bear the scars.
Broken bones and teeth, a ripped ear, and concussions with overnight hospital stays were taken as part and parcel of playing – even for teens. After decades of playing, a brother needed hip replacements because they were worn out from forceful skating.
Being a mother, aunt, and medical doctor, Dr. C recoils at such injuries for a mere game. Her dismay is in stark contrast to what one nephew told her a few days before he left town to join a minor league hockey team,
“I expect to get broken bones and teeth, and head and flesh injuries. But then, I play hockey.”
His casual acceptance of bodily injury shocked Dr. C. She couldn’t help thinking then, and still now, that Christians are such wimps in comparison to hockey players!
How many of us say, “Yes, I expect broken bones and injuries, but then, I’m a Christian?” or “I am an extreme sport Christian and do outreach, so I know I’ll get hurt.”
No! In America we never expect such kickback from practicing or sharing our faith. Even Dr. C admits she has had very little physical persecution.
As we reflect on the dedication of hockey players and the risks that they take for sport, let’s ask ourselves, “Are we willing to take risks for our Savior?”
