Jo and I have an early summer ritual, if you can call it that. I/we get a schedule of as many of our young people who are playing ball, write them all down on a calendar, and then make every effort to see as many games as possible. We started doing this several years ago and thoroughly enjoy going. Several things stand in our favor: first, if the kid’s teams are playing each other (we cheer for both sides) we get to see as many at one time as possible; and two, the ball fields are all in one place. We will do, as we did last night, go from one game to another. We see the parents (some are there every night of the week) and chat with them. Try to see the kids and let them know we are there. Then move on to the next field. Just for reference, there 7 fields at the sports complex. Last night we caught a break. Kids from the church only played on 3 of the 7 fields. There have been nights when they were on 5 or 6 of the 7!
It starts with T-ball where the little ones are so tiny they look like specks on the field and they are more a comedy routine than ballplayers. I was speaking with one mom last night and her son will not swing at a pitch thrown by a coach (they throw 3). But put him up to the T and he is raring to go. Our grandson played T-ball and he was serious back then, so there was no playing with the dandelions or staring off into space or running to the wrong base. But for these kids, it is their first foray into sports. They graduate to the next level where the skill set is somewhat better. They still like to play with the dandelions, and still wander into space, but for the most part, they are “getting it.” Hitting coach pitch is sometimes a challenge, but I can see improvement as the season progresses. Of course, they keep moving up in age and the skill set gets better. We watched some pretty good hitting and fielding in the 7-8 year olds last night. It is still coach pitch but the kids are getting better. Then we walked to Field #6 where fast-pitch girl’s softball was being played. Some of those girls really get it. Coach is one of the moms in the church and there are several girls on the team. I think it is safe to say coach is a bit more intense than the girls, but I also know she just wants them to play their best.
It is fun watching the progression as they age. From the “lostness” which is T-ball to the intensity which is late adolescence, the kids do what they are supposed to do: improve (for the most part). Sort of like the Christian faith. Begin as a baby and as maturity happens faith deepens. Staying the same is not to be an option.
My biggest issue last night? I under dressed and had to leave since shorts and a t-shirt were not made for the weather. You’d think I would learn since I am “mature.” 🙂
I think it’s fantastic that Jo and you do this activity as your own team, Bill! I’m sure this means the world to the kids and parents that attend your church. And your analogy is right on the money about maturing as Christians, too. Next time, don’t forget a jacket!:)
Blessings!
Thanks Martha. We do enjoy it. And, trust me, I will not forget a jacket or some pants.
Sounds like a busy summer! Enjoy those games. I would struggle. I suppose it helps knowing the players personally.
I like your association with the Christian Faith. Our job is to encourage that maturity in those who are still playing T-Ball.
Fortunately, the season is usually over by the end of May. Unfortunately, due to the rain, it will go into June. it does help to know them personally. Gives a reason to go.
I love that you do this for the kids in your congregation. Any and all connections are important! The weather in PA has not been the warm, balmy days we expect at this time of year. Chilly and rainy seems to be the report of the day–every day!
We love doing it Pam! Reminds me of my youth pastor days. 🙂 Our weather has been the same as yours. In fact, it is raining right now. smh
Growing up Catholic, my Christian maturity took so long to develop that I think I was stuck in T-Ball until I was 40. Even when I left the Catholic church, I still found myself wandering into the dandelions, lost, wondering why I did not feel this transformation, I stay there for another dozen years. Even attending Bible study classes I just did not understand how to read and study the Bible, I still felt lost. Finally, I started to pray about reading the Bible, learned to meditate on God’s words, and ask God questions, then I felt things starting to change. My focus was sharper, I was excited to read the Bible, instead of hurrying through it just to be prepared for a class. I can see a shift in my choices, in my thinking, and I am excited to see God’s work in my life. I will keep on learning, until I am called home. I cannot go back and change my timeframe on on when I came to the Lord, but my goal now is to finish strong with the fime I have left.
You have the right idea Gail. What went on before is inconsequential. Finishing well is what I want to do as well. May God grant you that desire and strength.
Oh I love that you guys do that! Yet another investment of lovingkindness into the next generation, Bill. Amen.
Thanks Linda. I told Jo last night in bed that last year we cooked; this year we froze. But it was worth it.