Opening Day
Monday, April 03, 2006
Something always gets me emotional and super excited about opening day. I don't know what it is exactly, but I always look forward to this day every year. It truly is one of the best days of the year.
I got to thinking a little bit though on the way home from work, "What role do sports play in life"? After 9/11 it was pretty clear that sports aren't important. Baseball took a few weeks off and it was somber for the remainder of the season. But it is such a big part of not only the US, but around the world.
I recall Spring Training 2 years ago. I went to a game and remember getting someone's autograph (I have the autograph, but couldn't tell you who it is. Someone who played for the Devil Rays). Anyway he was trying to tell these 12 and 14 year old brothers who were Jewish, about Jesus. You could tell he loved the Lord. And I think that that's where sports and religion can cross and mix. Sports stars are role models. They need to set an example for all of their fans. This particular played spoke about his gifts from God, and how God has given us all gifts, some big, some small. Now maybe talking about Jesus to Jewish children went a little too far, but the fact that I remember it makes be believ that others who were with me do too. This was before my reversion so I didn't really speak with him about religion at all, I just wished him a good season.
As I got closer to home the lineups were read from the radio announcer, and I just got giddy for a few minutes. I can't really tell you why. I just love this time of year. It's a time when we can forget about the past and look to the future. Kind of like this Lenten season. We can forget our sins of the past, and look to the cross, where Jesus died for them. Don't ever forget that. That is why we have so much hope. Jesus hanging on the cross.
I'm sure God likes sport. He has given these gifts to His people, and this is their stage to use their talents. Pray for athletes. Pray that they will be good role models for our cihldren. Pray that they will not be greedy with the money they make and that they may give to those less fortunate.
As I get ready for bed, my Yankees are up 12-1. Hopefully a sign of things to come. Let us remember Jesus however is undefeated. And we know who will win this game of good vs. evil.
Posted bypiscotikus at 10:29 PM
I don't think telling people about Jesus is crossing any lines...in fact...thats the reason we are left here on earth after we are saved....to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ, Him crucified and raised from the dead. I wish I knew which player it was, but I commend him for standing up for his faith, and using every opportunity, especially the fact that he is a role model to children, to let others know about Jesus.