God's Coaching #190

God's Coaching #190

It all started with the jokes around the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, wisecracks about a bunch of rednecks hosting the world’s biggest sporting event. So some self-described rednecks from East Dublin, Georgia, decided to host some real redneck games. They thought it would be a funny way to raise some money for charity and to celebrate their Southern heritage. They expected 500 people, but 5,000 showed up. The legendary Redneck Games were born.

The games have been held every July since then. They’re a lot like the Olympics, with feats of strength and competitions of, um . . . well, at least they’re funny. The usual events include the Hubcap Hurl (okay, that’s like the discus), Bobbin’ for Pigs’ Feet (yes, real pigs’ feet), Redneck Horseshoes (played with toilet seats), Mud Pit Belly Flop (like diving except it’s all about a big splash), and Watermelon Seed Spitting (lots of baseball players spit too).

And no epic competition is complete without its traditions. These games are started with the ceremonial lighting of a barbecue grill. Of course, there’s also an Olympic-inspired torch, but this one is made out of empty cans. Fans have even been known to get all nostalgic about a boy who serenaded the crowd by playing “Dixie” with his armpit. As they say in East Dublin, “Let the games begin, y’all!”

What’s the Score?

Do the Redneck Games sound fun or repulsive to you? Either way, it’s definitely a group of people playing up the stereotypes about their culture.

As humans, we are notorious for forming cliques and groups. There’s nothing wrong with hanging with people whom you like and who share the same interests. But it is wrong to exclude others and to put down people based on how they look, how much money they have, or what games they like to play. Jesus taught his followers, “I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other” (John 13:34). God’s love isn’t based on our shallow human judgments. Look past your preconceived ideas and focus on people’s hearts. See others as individuals God made. Treat them like you’d want to be treated—no matter the color of their neck.

On the Ball

Who have you judged unfairly? Talk to him or her today. Ask questions to find out what you have in common.

Coach’s Comment

I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. John 13:34