On Sunday we have the World Cup final. We all fervently hoped that England would be playing, but it is not to be. We have also seen the humiliating departure of the French from the competition.
The team was riven with discord, rebelled against their manager and produced lack-lustre performances. They became a cause of national shame rather than pride.
Wasn't all the angst a little bit exaggerated? "This is a dark day in the history of F
rance." Have they forgotten the defeat in the Battle of France 70 years ago? "The government has to intervene as the reputation of France is at stake." Really! "This is a matter of honour" according to President Sarkozy.
Surely not. There's nothing wrong with supporting our national team and taking pride in good performances. There can even be dignity in defeat. Surely we are putting too much of a burden of expectation on the shoulders of 11 football players. We need to get a sense of proportion back into our lives.
Is emphasis on success in sport filling a gap left by the absence of God? Or at a time of financial cuts, do we need something to make us feel good about life?
Sport has an invaluable role to play, and can provide memorable and stirring occasions. I was fortunate to be present on the last day of that Oval test match when England heroically regained the Ashes.
We need a sense of proportion. As a keen sportsman, I know how important sport can be, to play and support but it can never provide for our deepest needs - to find meaning in life and healing from hurt. Only God can do that.
Rupert Martin St Helen's, Sandal Magna
Churches Together are at www.churches-together-wakefield.org.uk
Pilgrim's Progress is edited by Nick Shields
