When Tebow scores, donate to a cause

From Town Hall:

Tebow mania has little to do with football, and much to do with fascination over a man who clings to Jesus with such conviction that he cannot be swayed by cultural pressure or public criticism. Tebow donates millions to charity. He is some sort of a cause, for those who love him and those who hate him.

Anyone who thinks Tebow is merely a secular, apolitical football figure needs to get real. If he quit football tomorrow, he would remain a celebrity for years. A scientific survey conducted in Colorado before the Broncos beat Chicago on Dec. 11, showed that 77 percent of Republicans had a positive opinion of Tebow; 49 percent of Democrats had a favorable view. He is divisive, whether he’s on the field or sidelined behind two lesser quarterbacks.

Sofia Brugato, a blogger for the website Abortion Gang, knows the value of Tebow’s energy. She initiated a campaign last week that encourages Americans to donate money to pro-choice groups — such as Planned Parenthood and the National Abortion Rights Action League — each time Tebow scores. Yes, it’s an insult. She contrived this fundraising scheme because Tebow adamantly opposes abortion. He became a subject of ridicule after appearing in an anti-abortion Super Bowl ad in 2010.

Brugato’s campaign should inspire those who oppose abortion to donate money to anti-abortion organizations, or caring pregnancy centers, each time Tebow scores.

Here’s an even better idea. All charities should consider asking supporters to phone in donations whenever Tebow scores. He’s a national phenomenon because he defends his values and believes in charity. Therefore, it seems reasonable for charities to make constructive sport of exploiting Tebow’s successes. Think of drinking games. Replace images of whiskey shots and beer mugs — typically downed when someone scores — with donations texted or mailed to various charities. Tebow could become the central figure in a free-market touchdown donation phenomenon.

Win or lose today, Tebow will remain the sporting world’s celebrity of the year. Experts told us he couldn’t win at this level (especially after that Super Bowl ad), and he has proved them wrong. He has illustrated the beauty of humility, always crediting his successes to talents given by Jesus — along with the gifts given his teammates and coaches. When Tebow thanks his lord and savior, Jesus Christ, millions are probably offended or annoyed. Some take issue with a savior who would help one team annihilate another. Yet it seems apparent that Tebow isn’t thanking Jesus for choosing the Broncos over opposing teams. He’s more likely thanking his creator for life, liberty and the game of football. No one with Tebow’s level of joy and humility could possibly thank Jesus for picking someone to lose on Sunday afternoon. If Jesus loves Tim Tebow and the Broncos, he equally loves Tom Brady and the Patriots. As a Christian, Tebow knows this.

Can Tebow take the Broncos to the Super Bowl? Vote in poll to the right. Must vote to see results.

Tebow has become a challenge to the culture. Nothing about him fits the mold. He was home-schooled. He runs the ball and throws with his left arm, after an odd-looking windup. He’s saving himself for marriage. He doesn’t get drunk and arrested. He doesn’t give a darn what anyone thinks.

If an abortion-rights activist can exploit Tebow mania to support her cause, it seems an obvious opportunity for more traditional, less controversial charities that share Tebow’s values. Rally around this new national sensation in ways that will improve the world for all of humanity.

Let us hope Tebow keeps winning, and starts winning big. His success can be good for the game of football and for the culture at large.