Play ball!
The spring time weather is finally arriving consistently in the Rochester, NY area. We are excited that the cold is moving out and more outdoor-type of activities are moving in. One of my favorite things to participate in during the springtime is getting involved in our church softball team.
Now, I know some of the stigma that can happen with the idea of church softball and inter-denominational, “friendly” competition. I could even spend the rest of this blog writing about some of these dynamics, but I love the opportunity that I have to get involved in an activity with my wife. It is an awesome time of practicing together, being with each other, and working off some of the winter weight together.
Our first game is just over a week away and as Marie and I were talking this morning, I realized something pretty significant about softball that can be related to life. I love the practices that we have, the camaraderie, the connections within the team, etc. I love the fact that there is no pressure to try to compete to win. To describe practice in one word, for me, it would be fun!
Some of this changes for me come game time. I feel more of the pressure and it is easier for me to physic myself out for the game. I have tons of questions that replay in my head and wonder whether or not I am giving it my best.
I think that over the years I have learned to calm down and focus in on having fun, just like practice time, but it is still easy for me to react and give into the pressures of the game. Part of me wishes that I could remain parked in practice mode. I love these times because of the fun factor and the lack of having to fight off the self-imposed pressures of the game.
Is this practical? Can one stay in practice mode? I suppose it is possible to stay there, but I think it is the equivalent of remaining on the sidelines of life. If one has the opportunity to shine bright and disregards it, perhaps they are living in fear instead of taking on the opportunity to simply go for it. And as I write this and look at it again, I can say with certainty that this has been me!
It’s amazing what the lessons of a softball game can teach you about the lessons of life. It awakens me to the realities of what I face and the importance of stepping off of the practice field with God and step into the game of life. I have all too often lived in fear, instead of engaging what life brings my way in faith. The pressures have put me in a place where I succumbed to fear instead of being an overcomer in the faith and belief that God will pull me through!
Another lesson to remember too is that there is also a season of needing to return back to the practice field for further training or to get back to the basics. I think it is about having an understanding or discernment as to what season of life one might be in at the present moment.
No matter where you are at, do not be scared or fear-filled at the pressures of life. God has us in these different seasons for a variety of reasons. I can tell you countless stories of my failures at being faith-filled and engaging the game that is right in front of me. I can also tell you the many times in life where God has pulled me through.
Let’s practice to play when it is game time. Let’s not allow the pressures of ‘what if’ determine what we are going to be about. Let’s allow the direction from God to be our primary decision maker with what we do in life.
Have a great start to your week and enjoy the game of life that is right before you!
Jay
