I wrote this post yesterday. I’ve calmed down some, and in the big scheme of things this is not a matter of life and death, but I’m posting it because the potential blasphemy in the service of patriotism disturbs me deeply.

The following appeared in a story at Slate.com and was backed up by an article at the Sports Illustrated website:

“Before the performance of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at today’s [Sunday, October 1, 2017] game between the Ravens and Steelers, the P.A. announcer at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore asked fans to join and “pray that we as a nation embrace kindness, unity, equality, and justice for all Americans.” When players knelt to observe the prayer, a cascade of boos rained down upon them from the stands.” [1]

To the fans who thought this was another protest of the national anthem because they didn’t hear the announcement, I say: “Take a deep breath, pause, and make sure you don’t inadvertently commit an offense against God.”

To the fans who heard the announcement, knew the players were kneeling to pray and booed anyway I say: “Repent and believe the Gospel.”

To the fans who missed the whole thing because they were at the concession stand or in the bathroom because the lines are shortest during that national anthem, I say: “That’s the America I know and still love.”

[1] Nick Greene, “Fans Booed NFL Players Who Knelt to Observe a Prayer,” Slate Magazine, October 01, 2017, accessed October 03, 2017, http://slate.me/2xY74Wz. See also: Chris Chavez, “Ravens Fans Boo Players during Prayer before National Anthem,” SI.com, October 01, 2017, accessed October 03, 2017, http://on.si.com/2xcgIWn.