Clown Cleats: No Joking Matter

Getting attention is an interesting phenomenon. I’m inclined to say that a lot of people like it. There’s something that feels good about when other people pay attention to you and listen to what you have to share, say, or contribute. Of course, for all the introverts out there (myself sometimes included), you might not want the direct spotlight shining on you, but I think we still like it when we can tell someone values us. It feels good to have someone’s attention and respect when we’re sharing something we care about with them.
However, there is a time and place for garnering attention. Matthew 5:16 says that we are to let the light of Christ shine before all people, so that they may see our good works and lift up praise to the Father. Learning from this verse, we see that we shouldn’t be seeking attention for our own benefit or to boost our ego, but that the manner in which we conduct ourselves in service to God should reflect well upon Him and bring Him praise. This past week in the NFL, the Browns certainly received the blazing light of the spotlight. But, it wasn’t exactly for their acts of service or how they brought glory to God, to be honest. In reality, it was quite far from that.
Odell Beckham Jr., wide receiver for the Cleveland Browns, once again made headlines for his flagrant flaunting of the NFL uniform code regulations in the team’s matchup this past Sunday at the Denver Broncos. Demonstrating that he is keeping up with pop culture (but not the rules of his employer, apparently), he decided to sport a pair of cleats decorated with a theme of the “Joker” movie that was recently released. Alongside him, fellow receiver Jarvis Landry decided to don a gold pair of cleats with a shade of orange not consistent with the team’s primary color. These were both in direct violation of the NFL’s uniform code. I think it’s safe to say that these players should not have been so concerned about what they were going to wear, per Jesus’ sentiments (Matt. 6:25–34). The body is more than clothes, the game (which they lost, perhaps unsurprisingly) is more than decorative cleats, and how they handle themselves for their fans and the kids who look up to them is more than their style or even their performance on the field.
Marla Ridenour, writer for the Beacon Journal, doesn’t mince words when she calls out the Browns players for the culture that seems quite evident. The title of her article is remarkably telling, saying, “As clown shoes illustrate, air of selfishness permeates Browns.” In addition to the footwear antics of these two wide receivers, Baker Mayfield, the team’s quarterback and supposed leader, decided to take part in the ongoing circus. He sported three different styles of facial hair throughout the game, progressing from full beard to Fu Manchu to furry mustache. It seems like these three highly prominent and leading players on the Browns team have become quite distracted by appearances and what they look like on the outside, forgetting that the Lord looks at the heart (1 Sam. 16:7).
But, let’s stop for a moment. Before we’re too quick to judge, let’s take a second and evaluate our own hearts. In talking about the poison of selfishness, Jerry Bridges states, “We can be very learned in our theology or very upright in our morality and yet fail to display the gracious qualities of Christian character that Paul called the fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22–23)” (101). What he’s saying is that, sure, we can know all the right Bible answers to questions about doctrine and what we believe, but we have to stop ourselves short and perform a heart check. Selfishness is one of those subtle sins that can creep into our lives unexpectedly. We’re not looking to become selfish people or turn our focus only to ourselves, but often it just kind of happens. Without realizing it, all of our thoughts become about what we want, how we want to do things, and what would be best for us. Of course, we don’t put it in these terms. That would be too obvious for us, I’d hope. Instead, we find ways of rationalizing and justifying our actions, thoughts, and decisions. In doing so, though, we lose sight of God’s kingdom and start to build up our own tiny empire (Col 3:2).
Right now, the Browns are sitting at a record of 2 wins and 6 losses. Sure, the NFL is a business and there’s something to be said about pursuing excellence and seeking victory. Certainly, that can be done to the glory of God and for His praise, as the Eagles showed in their Super Bowl run a few years back.
At the same time, there is much that can be demonstrated through losses and adversity. How does a team stick together? How do they continue to strive for improvement and growth despite the difficulties that they have faced and will continue to face throughout this season, leading into the next one? Whether in football or in life, Jesus tells us that in this world, there will be troubles. No doubt about it. But we can take heart, because He has overcome the world (John 16:33). I’m not quite sure if wearing cleats that violate the NFL’s policies can be counted as “taking heart.” Actually, I’ll remove the hesitation from that statement and go ahead and say that what the Browns players are doing is not in line with what Jesus taught. Those who seek after God are to seek harmony and peace with all people, as far as it depends on them (Rom. 12:18). This includes following the guidelines set forth by those above you, whether it’s the NFL, your average company, or even your school. Yes, readers in college, high school, middle school, elementary school, and all forms of education. Following your school’s dress codes brings honor to God. (Next time someone asks you what your ministry is, tell them it’s following dress code!)
Selfishness can be deadly. It might start out small and seemingly benign, but it can affect organizations and cultures, even at levels as high as professional football teams. Thankfully, godly men and women have offered helpful resources on how to combat this suffocating sin.
https://familyfire.reframemedia.com/devotions/a-biblical-approach-to-dealing-with-selfishness
For all my athletes and coaches out there, does selfishness currently have a grip on your team? If it hasn’t sprouted yet, are there even seeds of it beginning to germinate? Take the time to cultivate the soil of your own heart and that of your team to confess and reject any form of selfishness (Phil. 2:3). From the current state of the Browns’ individual and team culture, it seems like they need a heart and gut check. Selfishness is deadly. Digest the Word of God and hide its truth in your heart, so that you might not fall victim to and gag on this “joking hazard.”