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Aug 03, 2023 06:00am

Headed for Home

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“Let the field exult (rejoice) and all that is in it…”
Psalm 96:12a (ASV)

I’m a diamond kind of gal…baseball, that is! My dad loved baseball and was a skilled catcher through minor league play. I learned early on that the ole ball yard provided the best of playgrounds and that popcorn tasted just as good, dusty and cold after capturing some lightning bugs. When the games ended, it was a real treat to run the bases and slide into home plate pretending it was the bottom of the 9th and victory was ours! Over the years, watching my sons play (and digging sunflower seeds out of the dryer) has given me a front row seat for connections to some spiritual observations we might want to pack with the cleats and traveling gear to take home with us.

When life throws you a curve ball, don’t take it…drive it! God’s grace doesn’t always come in the form of line drives and walks (comfort & encouragement). Sometimes that ball movement will move us into a better stance of hearing His voice and prompting us to take the next right swing/step.
Sacrifice is really appreciated. A great baseball player understands that advancing the lead runner is a bigger priority than getting to first base. How often do we spot the lead runner in life? Jesus did. Sacrificing is a part of the winning game plan for seasoned players as well as Christ followers.
Check your signs. Some of the most important conversations take place on a pitcher’s mound. Signs matter. Ask the poor guy running foul poles if it matters after the game. Signs give clear direction and are not suggestions. How often do we get into the spiritual batter’s box unaware of His signs?
Step up to the plate. The 216 red stitches around the ball guarantee mental struggle, pain, work, passion, success, and purpose. Expect bad calls, grass stains, and weather delays. Spiritual ground outs, pop ups, and errors are also part of reshaping us as participants on the Lord’s team. Great coaches see your potential, develop your skills, encourage your effort, and make application to life.

Spend time studying your play book (the Bible), seeking instruction (prayer), and exhibiting sportsmanship (service) that is easier to spot than your eye black. Home sweet heavenly home will never look sweeter. Batter up!