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We are wise, therefore, to give measured allegiance to professional sports. No question that it is a pleasure to watch the finest athletes in the world compete with one another. But there is so much that has gone wrong in professional sports. It is no wonder that so many of us watch professionals always with a twinge of sadness, as if we remember that once the game was noble and good.

In the meantime, through sciatica, breathlessness, sore arms, and bad knees, we manage to find something noble and good at the local golf course or softball diamond or bowling alley. And I do believe we know more moments of joy than professional athletes, who so often find themselves trapped in a world of principalities and powers, while we get a Sabbath foretaste of the freedom and joy that knows no end.

* * * *

A few weeks ago I announced that I would be offering a column every other week. However, my duties as managing editor at Christianity Today are shifting, and it's going to be impossible for me to meet even that schedule. I still have a number of things I'd like to say about the underlying theological nature of modern sports, but I will have to continue doing so on an occasional basis. Nonetheless, I appreciate the many emails I've received about how this column has helped people think more deeply about sports.

Mark Galliis managing editor of Christianity Today.

Copyright © 2005 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

Galli's previous Play Ball columns include

The Lovely Paradox of NFL Draft Day | It's an event of biblical proportions—and wisdom. (April 29, 2005)

Negotiating Sunday Sports | This culture war was lost long ago. Now what? (April 15, 2005)

The Prodigal Sports Fan | There is hope for the idolater. (April 08, 2005)

The Thirst of the 24/7 Fan | Understanding the idolatry in sports. (March 01, 2005)

March Madnesses | The layers of insanity know no end—thank God. (March. 18, 2005)

Spectating as a Spiritual Discipline | For those who have eyes to watch, let them watch something more than highlight films. (March 11, 2005)

The Grace of Sports | If Christ can't be found in sports, he can't be found the modern world. (March 4, 2005)

Baseball Isn't Entertainment | The sooner we stop thinking sports are about the spectators, the more enjoyable the games will be. (Feb. 25, 2005)

Rooting for T.O. | Why Terrell Owens irritates most of us most of the time. (Feb. 11, 2005)

Freedom Between the Goal Posts | Sports is much more important than our culture lets on (Feb. 4, 2005)

Salt and Light in the Arena | It's going to take more than a few good Christians to clean up sports. (Feb. 18, 2005)

Rooting for T.O. | Why Terrell Owens irritates most of us most of the time. (Feb.. 11, 2005)

Freedom Between the Goal Posts | Sports is much more important than our culture lets on (Feb. 4, 2005)

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May (Web-only) 2005, Vol. 49