Special Cards
Deep Truths from the Game of UNO
Four Week Video Series
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Overview
Is UNO the greatest card game ever? Debatable. The story of Jesus on the other hand? Unmatched. Check out this series with Stephen Dunn as he uses his creative take on everyday examples (like UNO!) to explore the deep truths of God’s incredible message for us!
Teaching Videos
Weekly Topics
DRAW TWO: JESUS TOOK OUR EXTRA CARDS ON HIS CROSS
Anyone who has ever played UNO is familiar with the dreaded Draw Two (+2) card, which forces a player to add cards to their hand. Traditionally, everyone tries to avoid having this card played on them. However, I believe that Jesus would prefer for us to play the Draw Two (+2) card on Him rather than on others – He would likely even play it on Himself if He could. When we reflect on how Jesus willingly bore the weight of our burdens on the cross, it becomes clear that He would also choose to carry the burdens of the game, embracing the discomfort and stress on our behalf.
SKIP: JESUS SKIPS OUR PAST MISTAKES
Anyone who has ever played UNO is familiar with the infamous Skip card, which forces a player to forgo their next turn. The player who is skipped often feels as though they have been momentarily erased from the game, overlooked by the rest of the players as if they no longer exist. I believe this is a reflection of how Jesus views our past mistakes – as if they have been erased or “skipped.” When we consider how Jesus forgave the thief on the cross without hesitation, we should be astounded that Jesus did not dwell on his past wrongdoings. Instead, Jesus focused on inviting him into God’s family.
REVERSE: JESUS REVERSED OUR ETERNAL DEATH SENTENCE
Anyone who has ever played UNO is familiar with the Reverse card, which changes the direction in which players take their turns. This card can be quite useful, as it disrupts the traditional order of play in an instant. I believe this is a reflection of how Jesus reversed our eternal death sentence. All of us have sinned and fallen short, and we deserve death. Thankfully, Jesus – who lived a life without sin – took upon Himself all of our sins on the cross, freeing us from the burden of sin. Three days later, when He resurrected, He guaranteed us a place in Heaven after death, provided we believe in Him.
WILD: JESUS GIVES US FREEDOM TO CHOOSE OUR COLOR
Anyone who has ever played UNO is familiar with the Wild card, which allows the player to choose the color of the card that will be placed on the pile. This card is one of the most powerful action cards in the game; however, with great power comes great responsibility. The outcome of the game can hinge on the decision made with this one Wild card. I believe this serves as a reflection of how God grants us the free will to make a personal decision about our faith. The Wild card of our faith is in our hands. The question is: in whom are we choosing to place our trust? Will we choose the world, religions, or will we choose Jesus?
SPEAKER: Stephen Dunn
Stephen is the Youth Pastor and Media Editor at Hub City Vineyard in Hagerstown, MD. He is often seen wearing tie-dye shirts and his Naruto shorts. His goals in life are to love God, love his wife, love people, and become “SSL Rank” in Rocket League. He is determined to teach deep rooted theology through his genuine life experience, unique metaphors, and real conversation. His youth ministries’ core values are: “We are Family”, “Everyone’s a Pastor”, and “Respect Everyone (Including Yourself)”. His favorite Bible verses, which he has tattooed on his left arm, are Romans 8:28 and Psalms 121:3.
