I come from cultures where American football does not exist.
In Brazil, the main sports are football (what Americans call soccer) and Formula One.
In the Netherlands, football is also central, along with ice skating — a national passion. The Dutch are so strong in winter sports that they often dominate international competitions.
I still remember skating on frozen canals in the Netherlands, teaching my little girl when she was only two years old, helping her balance with a chair on the ice. The temperature was –4°F, and yet the beauty, discipline, and purity of that moment remain unforgettable.
When I came to America three years ago, I tried to watch American football with my husband, who loves the sport. I genuinely made an effort to understand the game, and over time I began to follow it. But the overwhelming amount of advertising — and much of it dark and disturbing — slowly caused me to lose interest.
Last year, during the Super Bowl, I was genuinely shocked by how dark and immoral the halftime show had become.
This morning, I woke up and saw a post by Franklin Graham. His words were accurate — and deeply frustrating — especially for people who genuinely love the sport. I agree with him 100%.
How sad it is to see evil taking over even something that was meant to bring people together.
We have already seen this progression with the Grammys, which this year felt less like a music celebration and more like a catwalk of darkness. The Super Bowl appears to be heading in the same direction. If last year was already disturbing, this year promises to go even further.
Scripture is clear about how we are to respond:
“Abstain from every form of evil.”
— 1 Thessalonians 5:22
“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.”
— Ephesians 5:11
“Flee from evil, and do good; seek peace and pursue it.”
— Psalm 34:14
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.”
— Matthew 6:22
“Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to Your word.”
— Psalm 119:37
I therefore call on my fellow Christians not to watch, but instead to use that time to pray for this nation.
Yes, it will be a sacrifice — but our Lord is pleased with sacrifice. Without it, we do not achieve much. In doing so, we follow our Master, Christ Himself.
Pray without ceasing. Redeem the time — the days are evil.