The victory celebration of a soccer match ends in riots in Europe. Another victory celebration of cricket leagues ends in a stampede. It is painful to see brilliant young people die for no reason or purpose. Eleven people lost their lives in a sports victory celebration in Bangalore. (India Today 5 June 2025)
Entertainment: Although entertainment is a luxury for many poor people, it is a hobby or regular habit for many others, and some even spend a substantial amount of money on it. Humans who can afford it often choose entertainment over caring for others. One person who died in a stampede had gone there to fulfil a ten-year dream, by saving money to watch a match live. In the Roman Empire, inhuman entertainment sports killed many people. God punishes and judges any person who is responsible for shedding blood. (Genesis 9:5)
New gods: Sports celebrities have become icons, demi-gods, and even gods for many young people. They admire, adore, and even worship them. Having a glimpse of them is like seeing God in human form. This is a violation of the Ten Commandments that forbids worship of anyone or anything except the living, eternal God. (Exodus 20:2-17) There are no other gods except the triune God: The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
Money and marketing: The frenzy for sports is whipped up in the media, including social media. Film actors, businesspeople, politicians, and prominent individuals become the brand ambassadors of sports and the teams. Aggressive marketing creates mass hysteria. For the sake of getting more money, stadiums are overbooked. Ten times the capacity of stadium tickets are sold.
Life purpose: Being a fan of actors or sports celebrities does not add value to youngsters. They are at a stage to prepare for their future life. By neglecting studies, not engaging in extracurricular activities, and without determining future career options, they waste their time on trivia, such as premier sports. Sadly, they sacrifice their future on the altars of vanity, and a few lose their lives on the altars of vanity.
Do I offer myself as a Living Sacrifice to the Lord or on the altars of vanity?