Angel in the Outfield

“Don’t be absorbed only in your life, but care for the lives of others too." ~ Philippians 2:4

It was a perfect day for baseball: temperature in the low-to-mid-80s, only a light breeze, the sky cloudless.  The crowd arrived late, but by game time attendance grew to nearly 20,000; respectable for a midweek, afternoon game.

The Angels led 2-0 into the bottom of the 9^th inning.  The Sox’ Alvarez had singled with two away when Weis poked a sweeping curve ball into right field.   Jackson, batting cleanup, stepped to the plate, knocked some loose dirt from his cleats and readjusted his batting gloves.  The first two pitches were high and outside; sucker pitches really.   Jackson waited patiently for his pitch.

It came with the third toss – fastball at the knees.  He smashed a soaring drive that sailed with the wind towards the Red Sox bullpen.

Williams, the Centerfielder shading slightly toward right field, sprinted toward a ball no human had any business putting a glove to.  He ranged to his left, searching, digging in, and pouring on the speed as the hometown crowd cheered what was sure to be a bases-clearing home run.

Reaching the low barrier in front of the bullpen, Williams leaped high at the fence as if using an invisible rope.  He jumped so high in fact, that his ankle cracked the top of the five-foot barrier.  At the last possible moment, he stretched out his arm as the ball touched his glove.  Momentum carried him over the fence and into the bullpen.

Nobody knew at first if Williams had caught the ball or not.  But in the next instant, he popped up from the behind the fence and victoriously held the ball aloft.  The crown went deathly silent as the umpire signaled out number three.  Game over!

Two things happened next.  In a time-honored tradition, a furious Red Sox Manager raced onto the field to protest the call.  He argued vehemently that it should have been ruled a home run - the ball had been caught outside the field of play, in home run territory.  The Ump didn’t see it that way.  The Manager was ejected.

But the real story occurred while the two ‘adults’ shared spittle at home plate.  Williams returned to the field, having made what was arguably the most incredible catch in the history of baseball.  Most Big Leaguers would have kept the ball for their own trophy case – maybe even sign it and offer it to the Hall of Fame. 

But not Williams.

He turned and searched the crowd.  Unselfishly, he tossed the now-famous baseball to a fully dressed Marine in the stands.  Surprisingly, no one else went for the ball; instead they gave the Marine a standing ovation.  Hero to hero; well deserved.

 

Gracious Lord, 98% of us woke today enjoying our freedom; 2% defended it.  Hold our troops in Your loving arms.  Protect them as they protect us.  Bless them and their families for their unselfish courage and generosity.  Amen

Death Row

“Forgiveness is a gift you give yourself." – Unknown

This letter was written by the Father whose son the recipient had murdered.   It was written to a prisoner from the heart – not out of guilt, but with compassion; not for publicity, but from humility. 

You’re probably shocked that, I of all people, am writing to you.  Please read to the end and consider my request seriously. I’ve something very important to say to you.

As the Father of the man who you helped murder . . . I forgive you, with all my heart.

This may be hard for you to believe, but I really do!  At your trial, when you confessed to your part in the events that cost my Son his life and asked for my forgiveness, I immediately granted you that from my heart. I can only hope you believe me and will accept my forgiveness.

I want you to become my adopted child.  My Son who died was my only child.  I long to share my life with you and leave my riches to you.  This may not make sense to you or anyone else, but I believe you’re worth it despite all that has happened.

I arranged matters so that if you will accept my offer of forgiveness, not only will you be pardoned for your crime, but you will also be released from your imprisonment.  Your death sentence will also be dismissed. 

I realize this is risky - you might be tempted to reject my offer completely - but I make it to you without hesitation.  Don’t be concerned that you may screw up again and lose your rights as an heir to my wealth.  Once I have forgiven you for your part in my Son's murder . . . I can forgive you for anything.  You’ll never be perfect, but you don’t have to be perfect to receive my offer.

Besides, I believe that once you begin to experience the riches that will come to you from me, you’ll likely be more humble, thankful and loyal.  I’m not worried about being called “foolish,” I just wish for you to call me “Father.”

Love, God

Forgiveness – it’s NOT a natural part of who we are; it’s love's toughest work and biggest risk.  It seems so unnatural.  Our sense of fairness tells us people should pay for the wrong they do.  But forgiving is love's power to break nature's rule.  It’s an act only for those strong in character – a strength that comes from a loving God.  It’s irreversible!  Forgiving without forgetting . . . is not really forgiving.  Is there someone in your life that needs your forgiveness?

Forgiving God, the true source of love and forgiveness, forgive me first; for anything I didn’t do today which I might have done; for any help I might have given which I held back.  Help me to find happiness in forgiving myself and the strength to forgive those who might have offended me.  Amen

The Last, First Date

“Love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins."  ~ 1 Peter 4:8

Kathryn woke filled with energy.  She jumped off her bed smiling and singing.  Today wasn’t like any other; he called last night.  They talked into the wee hours, until he summoned the courage to ask her out on a date.  Today would be amazing!

At 28, Jack’s mood seemed strangely unfamiliar – like at the end of a dream - you're falling, but know you won’t get hurt.  Even so, fear rushed his senses like a sand storm.  How would he handle periods of awkward silence?   Should he dress casual or more formal?  Would she prefer flowers or chocolates?  When did dating become so complicated, he thought to himself? 

Kathryn left work a little early to get ready.  “I’m deliriously happy!” she told herself as she got dressed.  Blond hair pulled back off her forehead projected a slightly ‘sassy' look.  A black dress simply cut and not too short made her look like a fashion model.  Hair perfect; make-up just right.   Kathryn considered texting him but decided against it and kept the excitement for herself.

Jack literally ran out of his office, rushing to his destination.  It should have been a fifteen minute walk.  He made it in nine.  Along the way, he’d smiled at everybody – the street beggar, the souvenir seller, even the patrolman handing out parking tickets.  He felt like a teenager again.

Kathryn waited in the restaurant’s doorway as he arrived short of breath.  She looked beautiful - just the way he remembered her when they separated two years ago after only a few short years of marriage. 

Her smile immediately produced fleshy goose bumps.  Jack greeted her with a warm embrace that said “You’re gorgeous!”  Kathryn’s heart fluttered like butterfly wings.   

They dined and chatted for almost four hours.  Despite the melodic roar of voices all around them, they seemed completely alone in their own cocoon.  Catching up . . . making up.

Before they parted company, Kathryn handed Jack a large envelope with nearly two dozen love letters she’d written him over the past 2 years.  A note on the front read, “Letters I was too stubborn to send you.”  His kiss assured her that he’d call again – soon!

Walking away, Jack chuckled to himself.  Pastor Bob had tried to talk them out of marrying each other years before.  He suggested that their selfishness would be a huge challenge to a happy marriage.  Pastor was right, but they were in love and married anyway.  

Tonight fate had given them another chance.  They are both still too stubborn to ever give up on each other, and too selfish to ever let their love for each other slip away.  A second chance at their first loves!

Sweet Jesus, You were the ultimate example of commitment - selflessly loving all humanity with a deep, unconditional love that eventually lead to Your death.  Help me bury my foolish pride and love as You do.  Amen

Wheelchair Bound-less

“Care about others as much as you care about yourself." ~ Philippians 2:4

“I’d never consider suicide,” his friend Tonya insisted as they discussed the issue of euthanasia.  “Not unless I was in a wheelchair or something.”  It suddenly dawned on her that Josh was in a wheelchair, and that wasn’t the most sensitive comment she could’ve made.  “Oh my God, Josh!” she exclaimed.  “I didn’t mean . . . I mean – you do know I didn’t mean you should consider killing yourself!”

He laughed a little.  On one hand, it’s funny how close friends sometimes forget that he’s in one.  It’s good to be treated just like everyone else; he certainly wanted to be.  On the other hand, if you’re in a wheelchair you’re not like everyone else.  Sometimes you need help and it can make life tricky if people who could help – don’t!

He’d considered giving up.  It got tiring pushing the wheels on his chair.  Josh’s muscles just weren’t that strong anymore.  And it could be a pain trying to get in or out of a wheelchair, especially when he misses and ends up on the floor.

Today as Josh raced across campus, he wondered if it was worth it.  His last class was all the way across campus and it took a minor miracle every day to get to his next class on time.  Friends had offered to push him, but it seemed so humiliating.  And he needed the exercise anyway.

So he forged ahead amidst the icy, uneven and cracked pavements that threatened his mobility, carefully navigating sidewalks crowded with other students.  As he approached the Business school, his iPhone alarm sounded.  Late again!

He ‘wheeled” his way through students milling about in the hallway outside the lecture hall.  His stomach tensed; he’d become accustomed to the stares for being late and holding up the class.  Josh didn’t blame those who’d been waiting for feeling resentful. 

Mercifully, the professor continued his lecture without missing a verb. 

Opening his notebook and preparing to take notes, Josh noticed the kindly, faced coed sitting next to him in the front of the class.  They’d never spoken more than a few words to each other.  She handed him a note which read:

“I noticed that you’re usually running late for class.  If you’d like, I’d be happy to share my notes with you so you don’t miss the first part of the lecture.  It’s OK if you don’t need my help, I’ll understand!”  ~ Paige  J.

And thus became a lifelong friendship.  Don’t you wish more people had the ability to read your mind and know when you need help?  Wouldn’t this world be so much better if you noticed when others needed help, even when they don’t necessarily ask for it?  Hmm!

Open the eyes our hearts, that we be more aware of the opportunities to bless others in need.  Move us beyond selfishness, help us to share.  All that we have is from You Lord, may Your will be done in Jesus’ name.  Amen

Under Fire

“He gives you a future filled with hope – one of success, not of suffering." ~ Jeremiah 29:11

Madison O’Reilly could've been a teacher or lawyer.  Friendly yet measured, she always managed to look fabulous – except when she’s at work.  Her office was not a classroom or a courtroom.  Her's was the Detroit fire station.

Long, wavy blonde hair framed striking good looks.  Big, blue-green eyes were often hidden by a smoke stained face shield.  Firefighting is sweaty, hot, and extremely dangerous work, but Madison found it fascinating; she loved the thrill of saving somebody's life.

The thing about being a firefighter is that you’re never really off the clock.  O’Reilly was enjoying some off-duty time when she saw smoke coming from a nearby high-rise.  After phoning 911, she headed for the apartment complex.

“My son’s inside,” said a panicked father.  “I tried to find him but the smoke got too thick too fast,” he gestured helplessly not knowing that Madison was a trained professional.

She entered the building, making her way up 22 flights of the stairs with none of her equipment and no backup.  Madison fought through a wall of blinding smoke and as she entered the burning apartment on hands and knees.  No sign anybody was home.

Keen eyes, however, spotted a medical oxygen line trailing into the closet.  Following it, she uncovered a young boy curled beneath a pile of wet blankets.  Pretty smart kid she thought.

O’Reilly grabbed the unconscious boy and charged through the blaze and acrid smoke, carrying him down the stairs, stopping occasionally to provide chest compressions.  With her ‘capture’ nestled in arms burning from exhaustion, Madison emerged from the building as a nervous crowd watched intently. 

Then she saw him - the father of the once-unaccounted-for 11-year boy.  Terror-stricken eyes fixed on him as she handed her lifeless ‘recovery’ to nearby paramedics.  They desperately tried to wake the boy . . . to no avail; he remained limp and unresponsive as they strapped him to a gurney.   The ambulance raced away, sirens blazing and tires squealing.

Madison faded into seclusion, memories of past victories replaced by a single tragedy.  She hated the heartbreak of losing anybody, especially a child.  Time slowed.  Sirens weakened as did the pulse in Madison’s ears.  She breathed in one last breath of the fresh air before returning home – all in a day’s work.

That was exactly 29 years ago.  Thank God my wife risked her life and carried the father of our grandchildren out of our apartment complex as it burned to the ground.  

Sometimes we blame God as if He designed a sinister life plan for us laced with agony and defeat. Not so!  Our God planned the absolute best for each one of us.  It is a perfect plan . . . to a heavenly future.

Loving Father, great are my failings and my sinfulness, but even greater is my hope in You.  It is stronger than my weakness, greater than my difficulties, and even mightier than death.  Amen

... But Never Alone

“By helping strangers, you may have helped angels, without even knowing it." ~ Hebrews 13:2

Her decision to end her own life after 73 years lacked emotion.  She’d experienced the gut wrenching loss of a child; the helplessness of watching her husband suffer; the physical pain of her own ailments.  Her agony was less dramatic – just the lonely outlook that life no longer brought joy or friendship.  Most of her closest friends had died; starting new relationships was difficult at her age.

She wrote a suicide note and placed it by the nightstand.  Concise and well written, Gladys didn’t want anyone to blame themselves for not seeing it coming.  No one could have seen this coming.

She decided to take one last stroll through the park to feed the pigeons . . . her pigeons.  Gladys came to the park every day with bags of crusts.  They loved her.  She knew it from the bold stare in their sparkly eyes, from the way they strutted around her.  Her eyes grew moist as she wondered who would care for them when she was gone. 

A young girl approached, fascinated by the flock of pigeons surrounding the old woman.  “Good morning, M’am! she hinted. “May I join you?”

Startled at first, Gladys recovered modestly and motioned for the girl to join her on the park bench.  But the addition of this stranger frightened the birds away.  “My name’s Abby,” she offered.  “I like pigeons too.  I hope they’ll come back.”

Something about this young girl impressed Gladys.  She seemed angelic - kind and gentle and patient.  A single pigeon fluttered down and waddled toward them.  Then another arrived.  And still another.  In a sudden rush the air filled with pigeons.  Down they came from the trees, from the lawns and from the pathways where they’d waited.

Abby sat on the sidewalk giggling as the birds engulfed her.  Gladys smiled too; blessed by a living angel, a gift to be nurtured and cherished. 

A lasting kinship emerged . . . a suicide averted; all for the love of feathery friends, and the kindness of a young stranger.

We never know what’s in another person's heart; what level of anguish they may be experiencing. And in some cases, the pain may be so great that living no longer seems an option to them.

Each day, every one of us, has a new opportunity to make a huge difference in this world.  If I had one wish, it would be that tomorrow morning we’d all wake up with amnesia.  We’d then see the world for the first time, with new eyes, the way a new born baby sees it.  Everything and everyone would be a blessed opportunity for us, just the way they are. 

Lord, grant me just one more chance: to practice the gift of kindness, to be patient when my tolerance is low; to rise above my mere mortal existence and listen with the warmth of my heart.  Please give me another day to truly love.