Cant Record World Cup

this wasn't an issue before because I'm not a big TV person but the World Cup just started and I'm freaking out.

I have a Monitor not a TV.

When I click record, start recording, on my control, the box says rEc and I cant change the channel or access the guide.

and when I click DVR list afterwards nothing happens.

If I do it from the Guide I get an ALERT telling me to make sure the VCR is on.

Am I not set up right? 

Do I need a VCR connected somewhere?

Is it just not possible on a monitor?

If I cant watch the games there's no point in continuing to pay for service. Someone please help me. Soccer is a big deal for us.