The most momentous world event last weekend was when one large AFL footballer put his opponent in a headlock.

Most Australians seem agreed on that.

But from there on the nation is divided.

Was BAZZA hard done by in being fined $3000?

Was he lucky not to be rubbed out for the rest of the season?

Was the whole thing the umpire’s fault?

* * *

Australians are often said to be sport crazy.

But sport can be a good thing, can’t it? It will make you a better person, won’t it?

Yes, sport can teach you to lose cheerfully . . . to win graciously . . . to improve your fitness.

Playing for the love of the game, regardless of winning or losing, fosters mateship.

You can’t fault that.

These are good things about sport

* * *

It’s important, however, to remember that sport, of itself, is unimportant.

Sport is only justified if it really does make you a better person.

If it doesn’t, stop playing.

If you become grumpy when you lose, give it up.

* * *

Another bad aspect of today’s sport is that has destroyed our Sundays.

On every public park, every Sunday morning, so many children gathered for hours — hitting rubber balls, kicking leather balls, running, jumping . . . .

Why?

Do their parents want them to grow up little miserable, meaningless, atheistic materialists?

* * *

What these children need is a reason to exist.

Nobody is telling them one.

Children need to learn about God — how we can know that he exists — how he loves us — how he wants us to live in obedience to him here on earth and finally to come and live with him and enjoy him forever in heaven.

Children need the Sacraments of the Church to give them the supernatural power required to turn their backs on the emptiness so insistently forced on them.

* * *

Especially on Sundays, put God first. Teach your children to put God first.

Deep in your heart, say, “Dear God, help me to give up all worldly desires, pleasures and ambitions, so that you may be everything to me.  And may Thy kingdom come.  Amen.”