Platforming Faith
Will Howard and Riley Leonard are quarterbacks on the college football teams that competed in the national championship game this year. They are also Christians, and outspoken about it.
“Before I say anything, I’ve just got to give my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ all the glory and praise, amen!” Howard said on the field after the game. In the media room Leonard said, “Before I answer your question, I want to thank my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” Both knew they were speaking to a national audience. Both brought their faith to the platform. They were not declaring that they had experienced miraculous intervention or received supernatural abilities during the game. They were simply redirecting the focus from their performance to a Person who is their inspiration and more.
They brought their faith to the workplace, and you can too. No, that doesn’t mean being preachy or quoting Scripture. It may mean saying, “I have a lot to thank God for,” or praying, “May the Lord help us in this situation.” If someone praises your performance you might explain, “I work hard and try to be helpful because I think that honors the Lord Jesus.”
John the Baptist called people to “bear fruits in keeping with repentance.” People asked him what that looks like. He said those who have means should help others. Tax collectors should not overcharge. To soldiers he said, “Do not take money from anyone by force, or accuse anyone falsely, and be content with your wages.” He was speaking to working people, challenging them to be different than the norm. (Luke 2:8-14).
That leads me to a question for a faithful Christian to ponder. It’s not, “Would you have the courage of these young quarterbacks to speak out, given the opportunity?” It’s not about their platform, but yours. Here’s the question: “If a non-believer were to take over your job or role, would anyone notice a difference?”
Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven (Matt. 5:16).
OSU QB Will Howard and ND QB Riley Leonard thank Jesus after 2025 College Championship Game