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A reflection and prayer to start the day with Iwan Russell Jones, a lay reader for the Church in Wales

Bore da – good morning!

Saturday is the big sporting day in the week, isn’t it – for spectators and participants. And whether we’re watching a great event like tonight’s Rugby World Cup Final , or standing on the touchlines applauding our kids’ efforts, or taking part in a game ourselves, it’s an indication of the important place that sport has in our lives.

I love watching my children, and now my grandchildren, playing. They might be dressing up as Robin Hood, or getting stuck in on the football field, making up songs with their friends, or trying to avoid dying another death on PlayStation – but it’s always fantastic to see them completely absorbed in what they’re doing. The game matters to them – it’s a serious business!

It's possible, of course, to think of play as just a frivolous indulgence – fundamentally non-productive, a waste of time. But that’s a big mistake. Educationalists tell us that play is extremely important in a child’s development in all kinds of ways. And it matters to adults, too. Far from being pointless, it’s a glorious expression of human freedom and possibility, individuality and team endeavour, a celebration of life. The American philosopher, Michael Novak, wrote that, if God loves to see humans straining to their utmost to be the best He made them, making moments of imperishable beauty, then He must be a sports fan! That’s a wonderful thought – God our Maker as a sports fan, someone who is there as our companion on the terraces!

We thank you, Creator God, that you love your creation and take delight in all that you have made. Help us to see the world as you see it and to live joyfully, freely and playfully as your children. Amen.