Unbeatables Beaten

New York Giants upset New England Patriots in Super Bowl XLII, 17-14.

Several of us watched the game together in the church fellowship hall. Getting together and eating and talking and listening is always fun. I guess I had more fun because I was rooting for the Giants to upset the previously unbeaten Pats. When the underdog wins, especially in the dramatic fashion of this year's big contest, it reminds us all to never accept defeat as a given.

I won't try to reflect on the highlights but one play stands out. When Giants quarterback Eli Manning miraculously scrambled to escape several defenders who looked like they had him cornered - and on top of that got the ball downfield to a spectacular leaping, behind the helmet catch by David Tyree - the "upset" chill bumps started gathering on the back of my neck. Tyree, who had not caught a touchdown pass since '06, had just caught one from Manning at the beginning of the 4th quarter, before making this unbelievable, highlights-reel catch, to keep the game-winning drive alive.

Just goes to show you - the majority may say your team can't win and you may not have contributed any game-winning plays lately, but never underestimate the power of perseverance.

"With all this going for us, my dear, dear friends, stand your ground. And don't hold back. Throw yourselves into the work of the Master, confident that nothing you do for him is a waste of time or effort." 1 Corinthians 15:58 (From "The Message")