Never Alone

Having played soccer in college, I still love the beautiful game and watch whenever I can. My favorite is, of course, the English football of the Barclays Premiere League. I love the skill and speed with which the game is played, and I love the way the fans sing and chant in support of their beloved “sides” (teams). The side that I cheer for is Liverpool, and, ever since the 1960s, the team song has been the Rodgers and Hammerstein piece (from “Carousel”) titled “You’ll Never Walk Alone.” It is powerful and moving to hear 50,000 Anfield (Liverpool’s stadium) supporters of the Reds rise as one to sing the lyrics of that old standard. Especially this year, in the midst of a surprisingly tough season, it is encouraging to players and fans alike to be reminded that they see themselves as in this together to the end. Through thick and thin, they’ll never walk alone.

All of us fear isolation and loneliness. We realize (consciously or subconsciously) that were made for community, and that makes abandonment or solitude among the most painful of human experiences. That certainly was King David’s experience when hiding in a cave as he ran for his life. His anguished cry? “No one cares for my soul” (Psalm 142:4). To the child of God, however, we need not fear. Even if people abandon us, friends forsake us, loved ones turn us aside, or circumstances cut us off from those we love, we will never be utterly alone. In fact, even if no one cares for our soul, as a follower of Christ we will never walk alone. This is the promise of the Bible:

It is not an airy tune or clever lyrics offering an empty sentiment. It is the promise of God Himself to those who are the object of His love. He is there . . . and He isn’t going away. Through Christ, you will never walk alone.

Bill Crowder, Sport Spectrum Chaplain