Why are moral relativists confused by religion? Does the concept of living by standards and moral convictions pose that serious a threat? Not only is Tim Tebow the most loved and hated football player in the league, but now he is the most celebrated second-string player. Most of the fame behind the name “Tim Tebow” comes from his young, unapologetic confidence in his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The sequence of questioning hurled at him during his recent Jets press conference sadly proves that the stereotypical New York welcome was in full gear, aimed and ready to address this young Christian football player’s ability to handle what the city has to offer.
“If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere,” the New York theme song by Frank Sinatra sums up the Big Apple best. Being a young woman from New York, I am well aware of what the “city that never sleeps” holds for incoming newbie Tim Tebow. As most have already pointed out, Daniel has now entered the lion’s den. And the constant referral to the temptation that awaits Tebow is appalling. It goes to show that not many hold high hopes for young men or women who stand on faith. Maybe Tebow and the city’s other young unapologetically Christian athlete, New York Knicks’ basketball player Jeremy Lin, should buddy up!
The world is camera ready — and waiting with bated breath — to catch any stumble that Tebow might make. Our culture is constantly on pins and needles, eager to rip apart the followers of Christ, those who build their lives upon moral standards rather than the things of this world.
But what is so different with this obsession everyone has with Tebow? Easy. It’s his youth. As a fellow 20-something, I can attest to the lack of young Christian celebrities that are upfront about their faith — those who not only show Christ in one aspect of their life, but who live it out and do not give the media the opportunity to record failure.
The media’s recent interest in the status of one’s faith and the shift in focus to the role of religion in today’s mainstream reporting have an enormous influence on society. From “Tebowing” to “Linsanity,” young Christians are once again stepping forward in society and donning their Christian armor — or, in these two instances, their jerseys — in public. Years ago, the media did not report on one’s Christian faith, because practicing Christianity was not newsworthy; it was the norm. However, today’s youth are facing a new generation of challenges, learning to be steadfast and unwavering in their moral convictions, despite the blustering storm of social temptations and media stigmatism.