Although Notre Dame often takes credits for their Touchdown Jesus mural directly behind the north end zone in Irish Stadium, there is another celebration that takes precedent. Before the game of football, war was the main sport, battling for survival on open fields to see who was superior. Yes, even prior to Goliath’s surprise collapse to David’s slingshot, there was a noteworthy day not to be forgotten.
According to Exodus 17:8-15, the Israelites met the Amalekites in the valley at Rephhidim. Similar to a civil war battle, swords replaced muskets and canons. High above the action, stood Moses, Aaron and Hur, praying for God’s side to be victorious. As long as Moses’ hands were held high, Israel stayed in the lead, Exodus 17:11. The moment he lowered his hands, the Amalekites began to take back momentum. Unable to lift his hands high on his own, Moses called on Aaron and Hur to prop his arms up in a steady position. By night fall, Israel delivered the knock out punch, spurred on to victory by the prayers and lifted hands of 3 men.
No, this isn’t a beer commercial about superstitions. Nor is this a football game that ended on a last second field goal in overtime. This is simply the first touchdown celebration, 2 hands held up high to the heavens, thanking God for today’s victory. The Lord thought so much of this day that he urged Moses to write an account of this event so that those not in attendance could one day marvel at the power of the Almighty God, Exodus 17:14-15. Instead of creating a statue like Touchdown Jesus, Moses built an altar for Jehovah Nissi, which means, “the Lord is my Banner!” The next time your favorite team scores a field goal or touchdown, remember to lift your hands high like Moses, thanking God for the good things on earth, James 1:17.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 