What is it with NFL end zone celebrations? When did all this silliness become an integral part of the game? Lambeau Leaps and impromptu dance steps are one thing. But Mr. Universe poses, Sharpies, and cell phones? Come on!

How about that latest craze—the LaDainian Limbo? Never heard of it? That’s because LaDainian Tomlinson doesn’t do end zone celebrations. He simply hands the ball to the nearest official and jogs to the sideline. No grandstanding. No look-at-me theatrics. Just great football.

LaDainian refuses to fall victim to one of life’s greatest temptations. It’s the temptation of pride. And that’s a struggle I dare say we all have.

The apostle John warned against “the cravings of sinful man, the lust of his eyes and the boasting of what he has and does” (1 John 2:16). These things “[come] not from the Father but from the world.”

Our unhealthy desire to draw attention to ourselves runs counter to what God desires for us. The only antidote is love—love for God and love for others. John constantly exhorted us to love each other. (Check out 1 John 4:7–21). It’s the constant theme of the New Testament. And it is embodied in the life of Jesus.

If you ever find yourself scoring a touchdown (I never did), toss the pigskin to the nearest striped-shirt. Then celebrate with your teammates and thank them. That will grab attention! More important, it will honor Jesus, who loved us so much that He gave up the glory of heaven for us.