Recently, the NHL demonstrated that if Christians are going to have any effect on the direction of American society, they need to stand up and speak out on their beliefs in front of the whole world.
Several Christian hockey players did just that and now the National Hockey League announced they are no longer having teams wear “Pride”-themed jerseys.
In a recent announcement, NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman revealed that teams would cease wearing specialty warmup sweaters to promote various causes, including the LGBTQ community.
This decision came after some players, driven by their Christian beliefs, chose not to wear such jerseys during the previous season. As Christians, these players recognized the significance of prayer and its impact on the choices made by individuals and organizations.
During an interview with Sportsnet following an NHL board of governors meeting in New York, Bettman shared his perspective, stating, “It’s become a distraction.”
Prayer can influence hearts and minds, leading to decisions that align with one’s faith. In January, players like Philadelphia Flyers defenseman Ivan Provorov and San Jose Sharks goaltender James Reimer, guided by their Christian convictions, chose not to wear pride-themed warmup sweaters. Their actions reflect their deep commitment to living according to the teachings of the Bible, which they hold as the highest authority in their lives.
Reimer eloquently expressed his stance, stating, “For all 13 years of my NHL career, I have been a Christian, not just in title but in how I choose to live my life daily. I have a personal faith in Jesus Christ who died on the cross for my sins and, in response, asks me to love everyone and follow Him.”
Despite their refusal to endorse specific messages, these players firmly believe in embracing all individuals, including those within the LGBTQ community, and ensuring that they are welcomed in every aspect of the game of hockey.
But they will not waver in their faith when it comes to supporting ideologies that conflict with biblical principles.
The decision to discontinue specialty jerseys also considered the concerns raised by Russian players Ilya Lyubushkin, Denis Gurianov and Andrei Kuzmenko, who declined to participate in their respective teams’ pride night warmups due to a Kremlin law which restricts the promotion of LGBTQ ideology.
In light of these circumstances, the NHL board of governors agreed with Commissioner Bettman’s viewpoint, recognizing the significance of keeping the focus on the game itself.
Christians know that prayer has the power to transform hearts, minds and circumstances. Fellow believers can draw inspiration from the prayerful decisions made by players like Provorov, Reimer and others, who seek to live out their faith authentically.
As the apostle Paul encouraged the Corinthian church in1 Corinthians 15:58:
“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.”
James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
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