A Divine Interception

Well, the confetti has settled; the parades have been marched; and black and gold beads, Saints football collectibles and autographed Drew Brees doubloons have been thrown. The sports magazine articles have been written and read. The magnitude of excitement over the Saints is sinking in and leveling off, though definitely not forgotten or unappreciated. And life, as I predicted, is getting back to normal. (insert note: My Saints wreath is hanging on my front door, and we sport our Super Bowl shirts semi-often.) And that's a good thing. (Though I'm still waiting to hear back from Drew Brees to sign the betrothal papers for Kendall and Baylen.) What an exciting time for New Orleans and Saints fans the first weeks of 2010 have been. Well, the whole season, actually has been a fabulous ride. Thank you players. Thank you Who Dats. Thank you New Orleans.

So what now? Instead of making big claims and dreams for next year, instead of rallying the troops to fight off "Saints haters" who downplay our win, instead of spending a life savings on memorabilia from the season, I would like to reflect and ask the question, "So what can we learn from this? What truths are waiting to be revealed?" I jokingly stated earlier that this is really not a life changing event. But in the midst, could God be doing a life changing work in me?

It would be fitting that my parents' church would have been right smack in the middle of a twelve weeks series on idolatry (ahem, sorry, something caught my throat) in New Orleans, during the playoffs of the best year in Saint history, and leading up to a SAINTS SUPER BOWL WIN. And we were in NO the weekend after the BIG GAME as well and I heard an awesome sermon. God's timing is always perfect, and sometimes humorous. Seriously? The week after the Super Bowl I have to hear a sermon on idols? Now that's funny and awesome all wrapped into one big black-and-gold bow.

So what is idolatry? It's anything that takes higher precedence in our life than God. All things in this world were made for the purpose of bringing glory to God. And when we look at God in all His wonder and majesty, and then look away to find something else to fill the void in our lives, we have substituted God with something that is temporary and will fade into the shadows of eternity. We were made in God's image to bring glory to Him. That alone is what fills the void. And as tragic as spiritual bondage and an unfulfilled life is, the greatest tragedy in a Christian life is deglorifying God. We are telling God with our thoughts and actions that He is not enough. He cannot fulfill the greatest desires and longings in our life. We need a little of Him, plus other things we deem necessary to live this life in a way we define successful and noteworty. Idols don't necessarily need to be bad, immoral or destructive things. Good things can turn to idols when they take the highest rank in our lives.

So how does this tie in to the Saints, if you haven't seen where I'm going with this yet? Remember, idols can come in all packages, good or bad, obvious or subtle. Think of the thousands of people maybe a little depressed, a little dissatisfied with life, a little frustrated, a little beaten down and trodden, questioning God and existence and lacking joy. Then, suddenly, low and behold, all is right in the world because the Saints are in the Super Bowl. Major life catastrophes and trials are belittled and forgotten momentarily because, finally, there is something to lift heads and capture attention. Problems? Who dat cares?? Now, there is nothing wrong with celebration as I am about to explain further. And I'm glad the Saints can bring a glimmer of hope to a people and city who could use a boost of spirits. But remember, things in this world are fleeting. Our life is but a vapor in comparison to eternity; and placing my joy's dependency in anything temporal will only bring temporary satisfaction or gain.

Far be it to legalistically conclude that enjoying things in life is wrong. What I am not saying is that Christians should see to it that no fun is had in life. Or if you were excited this season and cheered for the Saints than you are hell bent. Or you shouldn't cheer on and yell for your team, because, after all, that is sinful. Or you should never be excited to cheer on the Saints in the Super Dome or sport a t-shirt on your back or a decal on your car. All the aforementioned would fall under legalism. I like what my parents' pastor called his "taste bud theology". God have us taste buds that allow us to savor and enjoy a part of life, food. And in New Orleans, food IS life. Taste buds are not necessary for the fueling that sustains life in our bodies. After all, cars don't taste the gas, but instead burn it as fuel for needed energy. So why did God give us taste buds? Scripture says, "O taste and see that the Lord is good." God wants us to enjoy life. And taste buds are one of many ways He chose to do this. So if you want to play the legalism card, don't enjoy food either if it's wrong to enjoy football, or whatever the hobby of choice may be. Football and teams and the Super Bowl are not bad, but they can turn to idols in our lives depending on our reaction and cravings for them. Do we depend on it for fulfillment? Does is consume or waking moments and thoughts? Do we pursue players and stats and stuff above anything else? Are we obsessed with stats so much that our conversations just ooze with football talk and nothing else? Are we more excited about the Saints winning this year over the ultimate victory that is every believer's through Jesus' finished work on the cross?

Just as many other things in life worth enjoying, football can be a catalyst to allow us to glorify our God who created us to enjoy blessings He has given us and ultimately bring glory back to Him. Jesus said, "I have come that you may have life and have it abundantly." Idols just drag every other area in our life down since we become off balanced. Past patterns are hard to change. And new ground must be fought for, every inch. The Saints, whose motto is FINISH STRONG, fought for every yard, every game, every play this year. They were in a fight to become champions, just as we are in a fight every day in our lives to overcome sinful ways. Paul admonishes us to, "Fight the good fight." It's a hard, yet good fight. First Timothy says, "It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs. But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness and gentleness."

What about Tracy Porter's game clinching interception and 73 yard touchdown run that he caught straight from Peyton Manning himself? Every Saint fan's heart was just quickened at the mere reminder of this spectacular play. He had studied the Colts so much that he recognized the formation and the play. He knew the Colts: their routes, play calls and formations. He read Manning like a book as they were marching down the field with the game in balance. He waited, hanging back for the Colts to attempt to carry out their signature play. And when the timing was perfect, he stepped up right in front of the Colt's receiver, caught the ball that was destined for him, and ran it all the way back. No Colt had a shot to reach him. I will never grow tired of watching the replays. over. and over. and over. And it sends goosebumps all the way to my scalp. I get nervous and elated every time. The excitement overcomes me and I cheer all over again. And guess what? How do I benefit from what Mr. Porter did? Was it for me? Will I get a ring? A pay increase? A bonus? Fame? None of these things are mine, yet I'm still hollering WHO DAT like crazy along with the entire Who Dat Nation that has nothing to gain either except for a reason to deliriously party and trash talk.

Well, think about what Jesus Christ did for me, and you, and everyone else. We were destined to a life separated from God because of our sin. And knowing we had no other hope, God the Father sent His Son on our behalf to intercept the death that was ours. He bore the wrath of God upon Himself for us. When His timing was perfect, He stepped up, and bore our punishment, the God of Glory's wrath. We are no longer guilty. We don't have to carry what was once ours. Christ's finished work on the cross brought ultimate victory for us all. And I gain eternal life because of the outpouring of His love. Now, that's reason to stand up and shout!!

So, thank you Mr. Porter, for being a step ladder, for lifting my eyes just a little off the earth so that I can look up and be reminded once again of God's unfailing, lavish love for me. But I want my eyes to temporarily glance to you, then look up to my Savior. I am reminded once again through this life God has given me to enjoy that Christ has the ultimate victory. I don't have to sweat it out, bite my nails, and carry out any superstitious rituals. And as we cheer on the Saints with "Bless you Boys" chants or gratefully sing their praises for bringing the Saints into a forty-three year trip through the desert to the Promised Land, I will remember how blessed I am through Christ, and how I am assured eternal life in the REAL heaven promised to me. Thank you God, for reminding me of your glory. Thank you for yet another picture of your love and grace.

Saints fans claim the magnitude of this win cannot be fully explained or put into words. Funny, neither can God's love for us. You just have to experience it.

And Yet Again!

SnOw aGaIn! In Kendall's seventeen months of life, this is her third snowfall. Who woulda thunk it?! It snowed all night, and flakes were falling at 7am when we first looked outside with the morning sun. And as I type at 1pm, it's finally subsiding.



I did a scientifically sound measurement in the front yard, and here's what I have recorded:
Here's a view from our front porch...
...and back porch...

About mid-morning we all suited up for a trip out doors. Kendall's about ready.

There's no stopping this busy toddler. Well, nothing except Mommy swooping her up to get her coat on. But other than that, nothing stops this busy little bugger.

She really enjoyed the snow. She kept looking up to see it falling. And her squals were so funny! It's so neat to watch such child-like wonder.

And another nice surprise was that Daddy stayed home from work to play with us. (Notice that, thanks to Nana, Kendall has mittens this time. Poor thing nearly got frostbite last December since Mommy didn't have any mittens for her.)

Mommy and Kendall...

And Sophie, too! She had a blast running around the yard chasing the snowballs Gabe threw for her. Notice the snow is up to her armpits.

After snowball throw and catch, Daddy and Sophie decided to build a snowman. Sorta.

Kendall supervised. Somehow she knew the plan was not working well.

Even a toddler realized this poor snowman needed some help. Poor, pathetic little snowman. And just think, Daddy has a law degree. Guess it takes a different kind of talent to build a decent snowman. But the point was everybody had a blast.
And I just can't help but ending with a big, WHO DAT to the Saints. Seriously, did you think I would leave them unmentioned?? My feet are almost back on the ground. Almost. Record snowfall and a Super Bowl win all in one week. Now, who really would have thought DAT!

Gabe and I have realized that Kendall is definitely growing up in a different world than her parents. She's seen three snowfalls, a black president and the Saints win the Super Bowl all in a span of fourteen months. DATS incredible!

Dat Tuesday

Dat Tuesday, as today-the week before Fat Tuesday-has been dubbed, was the big day for the anticipated and pre-planned win or lose Saints parade. I didn't get to go, but I watched it live on-line. Why was I surprised it was over the top? It was a full-fledged Mardi Gras parade complete with the entire Saints roster. Reports circulated of it breaking parade attendance records. (Parade organizers estimated the crowd to be 800,000 1,000,000.) Fans began lining the streets early this morning for hopes of a front curb spot. Mardi Gras has officially become Lombardi Gras this year, and may even spill over into next year as well. Even life-long residents and local commentators are saying they've never seen anything like it. The atmosphere was just explosive and electrical and crowds turned out by the masses.

Anyway, party on New Orleans. Let the nation get a taste of fan and player celebration they have never seen. Let it be known that we do things a little different (and bigger and longer and with more spirit) down in the Big Easy. Wipe every other super bowl championship parade off the map, Who Dat style. This is our party. We are without a doubt the most passionate, dedicated and loyal fan base in the world. And we are to be envied. Expect nothing other than sheer celebration from New Orleans for a while.

"Wait until next year" takes on a whole new meaning in Who Dat Nation; the Black and Gold are coming, and we are to be feared and respected as champions.

Lombardi Gras

Yes, that is You-Know-Who and, yes, he's holding You-Know-What!

Let me just tell you. New Orleans knows how to throw a ParTy! And it doesn't take much of an excuse to have one. So when the beloved Saints win the SuPerBoWL, it's on! A conservative estimate of 25,000 40,000 Who Dats lined the streets yesterday afternoon to greet the players and coaches as they touched down on New Orleans turf. Now, this is typical for every away game, but it seemed half the city was out there! My mom and her friend had nothing else going on so they headed down to show their support as well. And these are some of the pics they took.

Scott Fujita...

Deuce!.....

Not sure who, but he knows how to rally the crowd...

Seriously, this was just an impromptu crowd that lined the streets. I think they beat out every Mardi Gras (better known as Lombardi Gras these days) parade rolling the streets. Who Dats LOVE their Saints and they sure know how to strike up the band and get down and boogie. At one point Sean Peyton hoisted the trophy out his sunroof and the crowd exploded in Who Dat chants and #1 signs.

I read an article from the Indy Star that reported 11 Colts fans at the airport to welcome home their team. 11. E.l.e.v.e.n. That's all. Now, my point is not to mention how pathetic their fan base is. My point is to show how Who Dats have a team spirit that rivals any other. And before you think that had we lost it would have been a similar homecoming experience for The Boys, there has been a Saints Parade scheduled for two days after the Super Bowl for two weeks. Win or lose, they were getting an entire parade in their honor. No stops. Floats. Beads. You name it. And half the schools in the NO area canceled classes ahead of time for the day after the game. And every Mardi Gras parade from here on out has a Saints player as the honored celebrity. They were booked within one minute of Hartley's game-winning kick two weeks ago as we knocked off the Vikings. Yes, the Saints are celebrities around there. Heroes. Legends. Role models.

Like I mentioned earlier, we're so stinkin' proud of our Saints that we can't help put party. And party we would do. Rain or shine. Win or loss. Trophy or not. But it does help the cause that we went all the way.

I just wish I could have been there. If their homecoming off that plane was this amazing, I can't imagine what the parade that is getting ready to roll in less than an hour will be like. Fans started marking their spot first thing this morning. In the freezing cold, they've faithfully frozen their little bottoms off just for a frond-curb spot to see their Saints up close. And I'm sure it won't disappoint.

You go Who Dats! Party! Revel! Celebrate! And yell out a few whoops and hollers for me.

Here's a few more pictures...

They're even hanging on the over passes.

Not positive who it is (though I am amost sure it's Jonathan Vilma), but my mom is in the window reflection.

Is this Garrett Hartley???... (Gabe later told me it's not.)

PARTY with the LOMBARDI!!

The SAINTS have won the SUPER BOWL!!!!

Elation. Excitement. Shock. Celebration. Just a few words to describe the night of Sunday, February 7, 2010, in New Orleans. What an unbelievable victory as it soaks in with the sunrise that the Saints have won the Super Bowl!! Finally, after all these years! I cannot even begin to describe the atmosphere in New Orleans. But, let me back up a little...

Sunday morning began at my home church which is outside of LA, on outer periphery of Who Dat Nation. So, needless to say, there were a few Saints fans speckled amongst the crowd. But being in the Deep South, we were, shall I say, "conservatively festive". My day began bright and early (as every Sunday does for me). Here I am with two friends and fellow co-corkers, Margaret and Bro. Claude as we all sport our black and gold...(Don't know why the picture is so small)

But, down in the Big Easy at my parents' church, the dress was slightly, uh, less "formal". The pastor, who is a HUGE football fan, tied the Super Bowl and more specifically Drew Brees, into his sermon since he knew what was on everybody's mind that morning. He would probably have looked more conspicuous had he NOT worn black and gold. We weren't there (yet!!), but I loved the picture my sister took and decided to include it.

Ah, we rolled into town just in time for the tailgating party. And, yes, we left Kendall with Gabe's parents. I know, such a horrible thing for a Mommy Who Dat to do, but, y'all, I was serious about watching me a football game and though Kendall is a little Who Dat, she can't concentrate on the game yet like her Who Dat parents. Here we are with my family.

I'm not sure why I didn't take pictures of all the food and decorations upstairs. New Orleans knows how to eat so there was no shortage whatsoever.

When it was time for kickoff, Who Dats dispersed all over the church where there were TVs turned on and up. We found our way downstairs into the sanctuary where the serious fans gathered. Don't distract us with non-relevant chatter or even food. We had a team to cheer on!

The Saints got off to a slow start, but the game could not have been more excellently coached or called. We were a little nervous at times, though, and the mood was a little low key.

OK, fast forward to the fourth quarter. Well, here's the proof that Gabe has been converted to a Who Dat. (We tend to do that to those around us.) The Saints had just scored and made a two point conversion. Things are looking up. We just knew they would pull it out!

Who Dats get nervous and uncomfortable easily. We've had much practice at this over the years and are all too familiar with the feeling...They just HAVE to stop the Colts on this drive. The Lombardi is close, yet so far away!

INTERCEPTION by Tracy Porter and a 70 yard return for a TOUCHDOWN, almost solidifying a win!!! NO WAY!! UNBELIEVABLE! -sniff sniff-, I smell a Lombardi!! Mom and I are celebrating in Who Dat style. (I guess Manning threw the game winning throw after all just as the "sports experts" predicted. Sorry, Manning. I have loved 'ya the other 364 days of the year. Just not tonight.)

Now all that's left to do is hurry the time off the clock. Oooh, another feeling we all know too well. I recall turning to Mom and incredulously uttering the words that seemed so foreign, "Oh my gosh...we are about to win the Super Bowl!"

Countdown...9..8..7..6..5..4.... This is not for real!!! Un-STINKIN-believable!!
..3..2..1...........................

Jim Henderson calls it, "Party with the Lombardi, Saints fans!!! Your Saints have won the Superbowl!!"

Yes, I shed a few tears. All I could think about was all the years my dad and I went to games. Every season started with high hopes that this season would be different. And every year would end with semi-optimistic hopes for "next year". Well "THIS season" arrived. No more "next year". We DID IT! Well, actually, there is a "Just wait 'til next year, but it now takes on a whole new meaning in the Who Dat Nation.

We all went nuts!! 43 years we have waited (well, some of us a little less, but still a long time) for this moment! Some Who Dats ran out into the lobby and into the streets as was the practice all over town. Some stood still in utter shock. And a couple fans were hanging out by the food. So what did the rest of us do?? Well, what we have done in New Orleans for years. What we do anytime there's a reason to celebrate. We stuck up the music, grabbed our towels and scarfs and we second lined and cheered.

To clarify, yes we are celebrating...and dancing...in a church...all cuz the Saints won the Super Bowl. I know I'm setting myself up for some jeers and jabs from my non-Saints fans who just don't get the way we celebrate in New Orleans. It's weird, but it's just part of our heritage. (And remember, this has been pent up in us for 43 years.)

We settled down back in our seats, or at least in a stand still position, to revel in the trophy presentation. As the trophy was carried up onto the stand (the victory stand that is-just for clarification-OUR victory stand, thank you. Move over. New Orleans, this is your moment!), passing through a swarm of Saints reaching out for a touch of it, this win still had not sunk all the way in for us. Is that the SAINTS with a LOMBARDI?? Are you kidding me? And are they really wearing hats that say CHAMPION? THE S.A.I.N.T.S??? Seriously. OUR Saints? The used-to-be Aints, the bottom of the barrel and laughing stock of the league? REALLY?? Is that Sean Peyton pumping a Lombardi over his head as all the Who Dats who were in attendance went nuts?! (We outnumbered Colts fans by almost 10-1)

Seems to me that all the talk of Aints is HISTORY! After all, that's the Saints on the platform, excuse me, the victory stand, in front of the nation pumping the coveted Lombardi over their heads in celebration.

As we left the church for the ride to the house, we witnessed just a portion of how the city has absolutely erupted. Horns were honking everywhere. People were yelling out their windows. Fireworks were blasting in all directions. Euphoria was spilling out into the streets all over town. We just announced to the nation that, indeed New Orleans is back: our economy, our tourism, our team, our residents, our pride. We have been through so much since Katrina, and we have come so far. Football itself may not be a big deal, but it accomplished a big deal. It brought life back to this stricken-down city. The Saints are an avenue, a channel, a visual to our city that we are once again well down the road of recovery. We are made stronger through trials and devastation. The team brought unity and a boost or moral to a city that so desperately needed it. Plus, we're always looking for a good reason to celebrate, whether in football or in life!

Now, will my life change because of this? Pish. Nonsense. It's, after all, a football game. (And to anyone who considers it life altering by any means, needs to re-evaluate priorities.) Life will very suddenly be back to normal (with a glimmer of a smile as we reflect all year long that we are champs). But it's a fun ride. And a fun time was had by all. We'll always look back and remember how special the Saints are to New Orleans. And we'll ask each other, "So, where were YOU when the Saints won the Super Bowl?" And we'll talk about the monkey off our back, what a legend and leader Drew Brees is, how smart of a coach Sean Peyton is, and how awesome it was to revel in our first ever championship. Some will talk about destiny, promised land and stuff like that. Others will argue that the Saints have never been respected, are the stepchild of the NFL, and the butt of jokes and comparisons, all the while whining about the slanted, biased media coverage (of which I agree). Still others will claim that pigs have flown and hell has frozen over. But I'll just stick to the sheer excitement. I'll let it sink in that the Who Dat Nation and the New Orleans Saints are champions and we will celebrate it all year long. Now dats incredible!

Way to go, boys. And we look forward to next year...We are more than just a good story. We are a winning team. And we, your fans, could not be more proud. You have shown true heart of a champion. And you knocked off 3 legendary quarterbacks in the post season to do it, Warner, Favre and Manning. Way to go! You FINISHED STRONG for all of us. And we're so stinkin' elated that we can't stand it. We know well how to deal with disappointment, but winning just brings us to tears.

Oh, there may be ONE little life changing moment in it all...Drew Brees sharing the moment with his son, Baylen. Now that brought tears to this mama's eyes. What a special moment in time that this daddy will always remember as he instills in his son what a true champion is made of. It's not the glitz and glam, rings or trophies. It's the legacy we leave for our children, the example that they one day will follow. And knowing that we are making a difference in the hearts and lives of our children who long to follow in our footsteps holds its own glory long after the stadium lights are turned out, the rings tarnish and the names are forgotten. (Except Brees' name will continued to be uttered in the same sentences as "legend" and "fame" for a long time!)

Hmmm...Kendall Brees...kinda has a nice ring, doesn't it??? So, it COULD POSSIBLY ONE DAY change our lives after all... hee hee! Let's just give it a few more years and see, huh? After all, the Saints have just proven that anything is possible.

WHO DAT, BABY!

FINISH STRONG (and a few other last minute words)

Oooh, Saints fans! This is it!! THE day we've waited for!

I still can't believe that the Saints are in the Superbowl!! It hits me every time I see national Superbowl coverage (slanted and biased as it can be at times, yet I still watch) and I see the Saints players and the fleur de lis symbol.

I'd like to address a few people...

...to the Colts...I respect your team. I've always pulled for the Colts and our New Orleans home boy, Peyton. Not today, though. Sorry. BUT, there is no other team I would rather see the Saints play in the Superbowl. I'm just sorry you'll go home empty handed and ringless. But good luck to you next year. I really do wish you the best.

... to Archie Manning (the most conflicted man in America)...I understand blood runs thicker than water. You should be proud of your son, and we respect you for it. There is a silver lining in this all, though. Your Saints are champions!

... to Peyton Manning... no trash talking here. No Saints fan would touch you with a ten foot fleur de lis, not only because of your roots, but because you have earned respect both here and throughout the league. We love you though we will be cheering against you today.

... to Brett Favre...retire. We just threw a third annual retirement party in your honor.

... to the NFL (No Fun League)... WHO DAT! ('nuff said)

... to Miami...thank you for hosting the biggest tailgating party in Who Dat history. Join us. We know how to have a good time.

... to Drew Brees... play your absolute best today. You are us. You are a reflection of the spirit of New Orleans. Thank you for your leadership both on and off the field. Thank you for believing in the people of New Orleans and for playing such a vital role in our revitalization. But please, stand up to the "Breesus" talk. Let it be known that you place all your faith in God, and thank Him for the ability and the opportunities that He has placed before you. Football is fun and exciting, but football doesn't save lives. A person can't change lives. And you cannot offer eternal hope (momentary elation yes, eternal hope, no). Let it be known that Jesus Christ is the only true Savior. YOUR Savior. Thank you for your testimony. Use your platform to proclaim truth.

... to the Saints...play your heart out! Play for your city, your home. And tote that Lombardi trophy back home with you, will you?

... to the Who Dat Nation...revel in the fact that your Saints are champions! Thank you for being the best, most loyal and devoted fans on the planet. And to quote Jim Henderson, the voice of the Saints and Who Dats, "Laissez Les Bon Temps Roulez, Saints Fans, YOUR SAINTS are in the SUPERBOWL!"

... to the city of New Orleans... I'm on my way. I'll be rolling into town in time to watch, cheer and celebrate right along with you. This Louisiana girl can't wait for this trip back home.

Geaux Saints!

"A Saints Cheer"

by Kendall Goza

Ready? Ok!

Ooh, wait a minute.

Not ready...Ok...

Now I'm ready.
Go, Saints Go
All the way!

Saints are in Miami

And ready to play!

Harper, Sharper,

Vilma, Greer

Knock 'em on the ground

And we'll all stand up and cheer.

Brees, Bell, Bush

Colston, Meachem

Let 'em know who's number one.

That'll teach 'em!

Touchdown, Touchdown

Who Dats all cheer.

Saints are in the Superbowl
We're #1 this year!!

No more crying
No more tears
The Saints are Champions
After all these years!

For our city, for our home,
Finish strong!
And the Who Dat Nation
Will party all year long!

Who Dat, Who Dat?!

Who Dat say der gonna beat dem Saints??

WHO DAT!!