I have just come from my grandson’s last t-ball game for the season. It was hot, and I was glistening like a pig (my Mom said women never sweat-they glisten!). This ball park was a happening place today. This was the tournament weekend and everyone was there. There were booths of merchandise that had nothing to do with baseball, dunking tanks, photographers and anything you wanted to eat. They even take credit and debit cards.
I did coach my son’s t-ball team (the Cub’s) did I mention that son is now 34 and the game I attended today was his son’s! My, how time fly’s. This season started in March and ended today June 7. I tried to make them all; after all this was my grandson’s first venture into baseball. He looked so great in the uniform and his glove fit perfect. He had his name on the hat and his shirt. He certainly looked the part of a fine baseball player.
Children still like to socialize out in the field and sometimes miss the fact that there is a ballgame going on, and the coaches are still yelling the same phrases: Johnny-get in front of the ball, watch the batter, keep your eye on the ball, run johnny run, step on the base, don’t throw the bat, where is your glove, and can’t you hold “it” the game will be over in a little bit!
At the first game I became a little confused. The team had three outs and the batters kept coming- it seems no matter how many outs you have, each team will have nine batters take a bat before they go to the outfield and they only play four innings a game. This is a little different than when my son played and I coached.
I know in my heart that this plan was divised to make sure each child played and had an at bat at each game. This seems to gently introduce them to this game. However, what happens when they move on from this league? They will have a little relearning to do. It might be harder to understand three outs means you are out and that you may not get to bat very often in a game. What is wrong with telling it like it is? I see this approach in many things in the world today.
It seems sometimes this is how people who don’t know Jesus are introduced to him. There is a fear that they will be intimidated or overwhelmed by words or actions in knowing Jesus and what he did for them. There are times people don’t even know they are at church, it becomes one big social gathering, and a feel good time. The music sounds good and the preacher doesa fine job and the children are doing their thing and it’s all wrapped up in a couple of hours and you go home or out to eat with friends and don’t give it another thought until the next sunday!
If you haven’t told someone lately that Jesus came to this earth and willingly gave up his life by dying on a cross for all the things we have done wrong because he loves us so much and provided a way for us to be with him and the Father for eternity then let it fly at the next person you see. Don’t worry about what they might think or how they would react. Just do it and give it to them straight!
My grandson’s team lost today, but I don’t think he realized it. He was excited about going to get lunch and going to the movies and I was excited about getting out of the heat so all in all it was a great afternoon.
Remember, Jesus loves you
So do I,
Larraine
