I was in New Orleans just days after Hurricane Katrina, able to be there because of a Marine escort. It was an amazing experience, one that left me feeling hopeless. It was a lonely city full of buildings, with just a few people and absolutely no traffic.

When I returned, I was not very optimistic about the future of that city. I had been to New Orleans on numerous occasions for conventions and a College National Championship Game. I have loved going to New Orleans through the years because of its uniqueness and its incredible food. However, after seeing the trauma, tragedy, and tribulation they had faced, I was just not optimistic about the future of the city.

The rising miracle of the New Orleans Saint football team demonstrates the true spirit of New Orleans. It appears the city is coming back to a degree even though the barriers before them are still enormous. Yet, a people, a team – being able to accomplish what has been happened this season shows the entire city and nation the power of victory through the greatest adversity.

This miracle in New Orleans is to be applauded and congratulated by all of us, even if we are not football fans. Therefore, I hope they do very well this week as they play in one of the two conference championship games. The winner of each will meet in the 2007 Super Bowl in Miami, Florida.

My picks for the weekend:

• New Orleans Saints will upset the Chicago Bears: the spirit of New Orleans will continue this miracle run!
• Indianapolis Colts will defeat the New England Patriots: Peyton Manning will play in this year’s Super Bowl game!

Whatever you may be facing this day or in this season in your life, let the miracle of New Orleans remind you: there is always a way. Greater than the spirit of New Orleans for all of us is the Holy Spirit of God. He is more than able to fill you, empower you, and walk with you, giving you the power to overcome whatever you are facing.

Our God always gives the greatest miracles.