The officials made some ruling on the last play of

the game, so one second was put back on the clock with

Sandy Creek still in possession of the ball. Everyone on the field

and in the stands was on their toes in ready position. The

referees were in the middle of the formation making sure

everything went according to the rules, because even though there

was only one second back on the clock, once that play begins

the game continues until the play is finished.

The center snaps the ball to the quarterback, who

drops back with his arm tightly cocked, scanning his receivers.

The quarterback then throws a long pass toward one of his

players in the end zone. As the ball flies through the air, the hopes

of winning remained alive. Sandy Creek players, coaches,

and fans did not give up hope until it was obvious that the

pass was incomplete.

This game reminds me of the power of hope. As long

as there is one second on the clock there is hope.

The sad truth is that too many people give up hope

too soon. They give up hope for their marriage and family,

for their dreams and goals, for their lives altogether. Many

feel so beaten they have given up hope before it is even

halftime; others give up hope in the third quarter, and some wait

until the last minute to give up hope. That football game

reminded me that as long as there is one second on the clock there

is hope.

Allow me to paraphrase Ecclesiastes 9:4, "As long as

there is life, there is hope even a live dog is better than a

dead lion!" There may be only one second on the clock, you

may be the underdog, the odds may not be in your favor, and

the "professionals" may say it is an impossible situation, but

just remember as long as there is life, there is hope.

Don't give up!

Chuck Griffith is pastor of Fayette Assembly of God,

1144 Ga. Highway 92 South in Fayetteville, 770-719-0322.

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