I’ve written a bit about Tim Tebow previously, and I have to admit that I don’t have a lot of sympathy for someone who turns himself into a lightning rod because of his religious beliefs. Well, it’s not so much his beliefs as his willingness to wear them on his sleeve and define himself by them. He was referred to (not always jokingly) as “God” when he was the quarterback at the University of Florida. He was gifted, committed, successful…and he wore his Tea Party brand of Christianity on his sleeve and on the patches he wore under each eye. While part of me admires his commitment to something bigger than himself, his (and his father’s) mean, intolerant brand of Christianity represent everything that’s wrong about modern Christianity.
Tebow is, of course, free to live and believe as he sees fit. The fact that he’s become such a lightning rod because of his beliefs is something he clearly takes as an opportunity to share those beliefs with others…and try to convert them. Understandably, not every one appreciates that sort of thing- the overt religiosity, the postgame prayer huddles at midfield, the unbridled passion and rah-rah emotion…and the platform that his success provides Tebow. It was a tough sell as a top-flight college athlete, but now that Tebow has moved up to the NFL, there are those who resent the fact that a third-string quarterback gets the attention that Tebow does. The NFL is a dog-eat-dog, perform-or-die environment. There’s no room for sentiment, feelings, or consideration. “What have you done for me lately?” is not just a slogan; it’s the mantra of day-to-day life. If a player can’t perform at the expected level, there are many others waiting in the wings ready, willing, and more than able to step up and accept the challenge. Tebow is not immune to this most basic rule of life in the NFL, but he’s held to a different standard in the public’s eye simply because he’s allowed himself to be perceived as a lightning rod. Few third-string quarterbacks have ever received the attention Tebow does, and there are those who resent him for it.
Tim Tebow, by all indications, is serious about his craft. He practices and works hard, is a good teammate, and in no way is he a prima donna who expects special treatment. Personally, I’d like to see the kid succeed. While I’m not wild about his religious beliefs or his overt religiosity, he’s the sort of player I enjoy watching- talented, hard-working, serious, and willing to accept blame and deflect credit. It would be nice to see Tebow have the opportunity to sink or swim based on his talent, skill, and ability to do what quarterbacks do- lead their team and try to win football games. Ultimately, Tim Tebow’s NFL career will rise or fall based on his ability to do these things- which makes him like every other player who puts on an NFL uniform. Unfortunately, it will never really be that simple for Tebow…and it’s his own fault. That’s what happens when you define yourself- and allow yourself to be defined- by your religious beliefs.
In the meantime, while we’re all waiting to see if Tebow sinks or swims…is anyone else ready for some football??
