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Keith Madison Golf Classic benefiting SCORE International
Keith Madison Golf Classic benefiting SCORE International benefiting Score International
Hosted by University of Louisville Baseball Coach Dan McDonnell

KEITH MADISON'S DEVOTIONAL

The following is reprinted from Keith's monthly E-devotional which is sent via e-mail to over 1,500 friends. Visit our Contact Us form page where you can submit your e-mail address and subscribe to both Keith's as well as Sharon's e-mail devotionals.

April 1, 2014

ALMOST

I "almost" made it to the major leagues. I "almost" led my team to the College World Series. I "almost" made it to my grandmother’s funeral. "Almost." It can be a sad word, can’t it? Some of the "almost's" in life’s journey we control; some, we can’t.

We are not alone. The Bible is filled with the sadness of "almost." Consider Moses. He led a large group of complaining, hardheaded and rebellious slaves out of captivity only to be lost in the desert for decades. In the process, God molded Moses into a great leader. He "almost" made it to the Promised Land. Because of his faithfulness, he eventually made it to "The Promised Land."

Several hundred years later, there was a powerful monarch in Rome called Agrippa. Paul couldn’t resist the tugging of the Holy Spirit and passionately shared his personal testimony and the Gospel with this agnostic leader. His eternally sad reply to Paul, "Thou almost persuadest me to be a Christian" (Acts 26:28). The true sadness here is that Agrippa didn’t only reject Paul; he turned his back on the loving Savior of his soul.

There are many more, including Nicodemus who looked Christ in the eye and heard the great Teacher say, "You must be born again." Nicodemus went away sorrowful. Pontius Pilate was face-to-face with Jesus and asked Him "What is truth?" He was standing inches from The Truth. Judas traveled, listened, learned and witnessed miracles from the Master but never opened his heart to his Friend. All of these men were close. They were "almost" embracing life everlasting, but from all accounts, they are now very sorrowful.

Now the good news: For every sinner mentioned who "almost" took the step of faith in Christ there are many who believed, trusted and surrendered…sinners—blind to Truth, stuck in darkness instead of embracing Light— who traded sorrow for joy and cynicism for faith. There was the woman at the well, the prostitute dodging stones, the prodigal son, the thief on the cross, persecutors of Christians…and me.

Rejecting Christ would have been the saddest "almost." I can live with lost chances in major league baseball and not winning the big championship. But now that I know Christ, the "almost's" in my life carry little weight.

Jesus said, "For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?" (Mark 8:36)

March 3, 2014

INFLUENCE

Almost every day, I talk to coaches. Occasionally, one will say, "We didn’t win because we had no leadership on our team." Wait a minute, Coach, I thought YOU were the leader!

Much, perhaps too much, has been written about leadership. Leadership is all about influence. The truth is, you influence people much more with your actions than you do with words. Words are extremely important, but if the "tongue in your shoes doesn’t follow the tongue in your mouth" you will have little lasting influence. In other words, we should all practice what we preach.

Rod Olson says that 89% of culture is driven by what people see their leader "do" while only 11% is driven by what a leader "says." More than any other time, we need CEO’s, politicians, coaches, teachers, pastors and parents to lead by example.

Jesus was the best at leading by example. Jesus wanted His disciples to serve, so He served (Matthew 20:27-28). He wanted His disciples to be humble, so He washed their feet (John 13:3-5, 13:12-15). Jesus did not want His disciples to be selfish, so He gave it all (Philippians 2:3-8).

Finally, real leaders love those they lead. Politicians lead people, not voters. CEO’s lead men and women, not employees. Coaches coach players, not a sport. Teachers teach future leaders and future parents, not a subject. If you don’t love those you lead, you simply lead out of selfish ambition. Paul said it best 2,000 years ago, "Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered; it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails." (1 Corinthians 13: 4-8a)

Lead by example and love those you lead.

December 10, 2013

DON'T MISS IT!

The shopping, trimming the tree, the Christmas parties, the one last project at work, the excitement, the stress, your favorite holiday movie with Santa, elves or Griswold’s…then, it’s over and most of us miss it.

We miss The Gift. "For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16

Two of the disciples missed it. We learn in detail about this in Luke 24:13-35. They missed embracing the Greatest Man in the history of the world on that lonely, dusty road of grief and disappointment called Emmaus. These two disciples were so downcast that they couldn’t recognize that their resurrected Friend, Jesus, was walking right beside them on the road to Emmaus. These disciples were walking the wrong way…away from the fellowship of believers in Jerusalem.

It occurs to me that these two men had met Jesus, but they really didn’t know Him. They had been taught by Him, but they saw Him as their Leader and Savior from their earthly enemies. They didn’t know Him as the resurrected Christ, the Messiah, the One who saves us from our sin and prepares us for a place much better than Jerusalem, Emmaus, Rome, New York or any earthly city. They didn’t understand that Jesus’ death just a few days before offed the greatest hope possible.

In order not to "miss it," we must clear our minds and hearts from the busyness and stress of the season. He is in our midst. We will find Jesus in quiet and peace, if we truly seek Him with the intensity of the Wise Men from the east.

By the way, it was when the disciples asked this man from the road to stay with them and dine with them that they were able to recognize Him. "When He was at the table with them, He took bread, gave thanks, broke it and began to give it to them. Their eyes were opened and they recognized Him, and He disappeared from their sight. They asked each other, ‘Were not our hearts burning within us while He talked with us on the road and opened the scriptures to us?’" (Luke 24:30-32)

My prayer this Christmas Season and throughout 2014 is that my eyes will be opened, that my heart will burn within me as I read scripture and that I won’t miss Him.

November 25, 2013

FASTBALLS AND FOOTBALLS

Thanksgiving may be my favorite holiday. It’s not commercial, less stressful and more relaxing than most. Since "every good and perfect gift is from above…" (James 1:17), please indulge me in sharing a few gifts I’m grateful for this Thanksgiving:

FAITH: Yes, I am thankful for the faith He has given. I’m still growing in this area and have learned that when my faith is lacking, I can ask for more. "We have not because we ask not."(James 4:2b) We don’t have to be stuck in doubt, cynicism and fear. There have been and will be times of crisis for all of us when we will need more faith. Now is a good time to seek and ask so that we will be prepared for the inevitable.

FREEDOM: I have shared my faith in Christ in four different nations without fear of persecution. In some countries, I would be ostracized, stoned, imprisoned or even killed for speaking the name of Jesus. I am thankful for the men and women who protect our freedom and for the hundreds of thousands who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can be free.

FAMILY: God willing, all of our immediate family will visit us on Thanksgiving Day. Then, on Saturday, my brother and sister and most of my mother’s grandchildren will travel "over the hills and through the woods" to grandmother’s house for another feast. Sharon, my sons & their wives, grandchildren, mother and siblings will all be together!

FRIENDS: I am truly thankful for the friends God has placed in my life. Accountability, availability, support and laughter are all a few of the bi-products of friendships. A great gift!

FORMER PLAYERS: I’m so very thankful for the many young men who played for me during my 28 years of coaching. I learned something from each player and can honestly say that I love each and every one.

FOOD: There will be plenty of it on Thursday and Saturday during the Madison celebrations! We are thankful.

FOOTBALL: Need I say more? What would a good American Thanksgiving Day be without football and leftovers?

FASTBALLS: Mine wasn’t nearly as good as Nolan Ryan’s or Aroldis Chapman’s, but without it I would not have been able to enjoy a brief playing career and a long coaching career. My fastball opened the doors for me in baseball. So, I thank God for this gift during my younger days.

FINALLY, FORGIVENESS: "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." (Romans 3:23). Yes, we have a "sin problem." God has given us a gift to take care of that problem…His son, Jesus. Jesus took ALL of our sins with Him to the cross and has forgiven us. We need to receive this gift and believe. Only Jesus died for our sins. "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God." (2 Corinthians 5:21) "For God so love the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

So, Father God, thank you for these good gifts. May God bless you all as we count our gifts one-by-one.

October 3, 2013

ALL-STARS

What do Josh Hamilton, Mariano Rivera, Albert Pujols, Brian Roberts, Andy Pettitte and Lance Berkman all have in common? The obvious answer is that they’ve all represented a Major League team during an All-Star Game. Another thing these men have in common is that they all profess faith in Jesus Christ. None of them are perfect; nor do they profess to be perfect. Each one of these men has their own, unique struggles. Fame and money doesn’t solve all of their problems and wearing a Major League uniform doesn’t cover up their frailties. They are gifted; no doubt, but just like each one of us, they have challenges, temptations and weaknesses.

Several years ago, I attended the MLB All-Star game and had the privilege of attending the Baseball Chapel for the players in both leagues. There were at least 20 players in attendance. It was almost as if egos and agendas were "checked" at the door. These were some of the greatest athletes in the world…certainly the very best baseball players on the planet. There was tremendous energy in the room and the usual competitive banter that occurs between athletes. As you can imagine, there was also enormous confidence and swag. But, during Chapel, these were God’s children seeking answers, receiving encouragement and soaking in peace away from the cameras and microphones.

Their faith in Christ doesn’t guarantee a life without problems, but it does give them a Friend to help them in their times of frustration, failure and fatigue. Some would call this a "crutch," but if you ask any one of them, I’m certain that they would call it a blessing. During times of frustration, God offers peace (John 14:27). When they struggle and fail, God gives strength (Philippians 4:13). When they are exhausted, God encourages them to rest in Him (Matthew 11:28).

These gifts are available to MLB All-Stars as well as to each one of us; they are offered by a loving God who would rather give freedom than to judge, give understanding instead of confusion and will provide faith when we doubt. We only need to "Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or, if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you…know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him!" (Matthew 7:7, 9-11)

In God’s eyes, each one of us is an all-star. That’s why He sent Jesus to be "Immanuel, God with us." (Matthew 1:23)

August 23, 2013

You often hear people say, "I went on a mission trip to be a blessing to others, but returned having been the one blessed." This is true statement.

Last week, I took a small group of college baseball players to the Dominican Republic to compete, serve and grow together spiritually. Towards the end of our trip, we traveled to the capital city of Santo Domingo for a game. The Dominicans are passionate, gifted players; but on this particular day, our American guys played with equal passion and won by a commanding margin. The field was located in one of the poorer sections of the city, and players and coaches were excited to play against the "Americanos." The Dominican team wore old, tattered uniforms, spikes with holes and such sweaty hats that the team logos were barely legible.

After we won the game, we thanked the opposing team and shared the love of Jesus through the Word. It soon became obvious that many on this team were followers of Christ. After we prayed with them and gave them much needed equipment, the Dominican coach asked if he could say a few words. He proceeded to thank us for coming from America to encourage them, and then he gave each of our players a gift (this is unusual). He presented each player a new hat with a hand written note underneath the bill. The hat has the official Dominican National Team logo. I was moved with gratitude and then looked at our player to see their reaction. Our oldest player, recent Memphis graduate 6’ 7" Josiah Ward, received his gift and immediately walked away toward the vacant infield with his head down. He was overwhelmed and moved to tears with the thought of these very poor coaches giving him such a nice gift…a sacrificial gift.

We climbed on the bus that day having learned just a little more about "giving."

"As he looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. 'I tell you the truth, He said, 'this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people give their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.'" (Luke 21:1-4)

June 25, 2013

PEACE

He was with me when I was twelve years old and knew I was lost without Him. He filled my heart with peace and let me know that He was indeed with me.

He was with me when I was a young minor league baseball player chasing the dream of playing in the Major Leagues. When I was released and felt like a "Has-Been" at the age of 22; He once again gave me His peace.

He was with me again, at 38, as the father of two sons ages 8 and 10. My wife was diagnosed with cancer. After the surgery, the doctor gave her a 50% chance of survival. I struggled with confusion and anger for a few days; He spoke peace to my heart and let me know that He would take care of all of us. The peace entered, yet, again.

When I finally realized that my father would never leave the hospital, Jesus provided peace and strength. He was with me.

Yes, for those who have faith in Christ Jesus, He is always with us giving peace. Jesus is not rude. He is not a "party crasher." He knocks but only enters if He is invited!

"Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me." Revelations 3:20

If there is stress or chaos in your life, ask God for peace. He wants to hear from you! And He wants to give you all that you need.

"Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. I do not give as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid." John 14:27

June 12, 2013

SOME THINGS NEVER CHANGE

Why am I so inconsistent? Why am I so moody? Why do bad things happen to good people? Why doesn't my wife understand me? What is the meaning of life!?!

A young coach was complaining about a wily, veteran umpire's strike zone during an important game. The wise "man in blue" looked the coach square in the eyes and said, "Coach, you see that home plate? It's 17" wide. It's been 17" for a hundred years and it will always be 17" wide. The width of home plate doesn't change for me and it doesn't change for you."

The umpire was right. The width of the plate never changes. Hitters can count on it. Pitchers can count on it. And, umpires, coaches and fans can count on it. That's the way it is with Jesus. That is why we can trust Him. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." (Hebrews 13:8)

The truth of the matter is that we are going to be inconsistent. We are going to have bad moods. Bad things are going to happen and our spouses probably don't totally understand us. But, Jesus is the meaning of life. Seek Him. Follow Him. Love Him. The closer you follow, the more like Him you will become. You will be more consistent, you will have more joy and you will be closer to the answer of that age old question, "How wide is home plate?" Sorry, I meant, "What is the meaning of life?"

May 7, 2013

WHAT DOES GOD SEE?

Many coaches look at athletes and see a uniform, a number on the jersey, a hat, a bat or glove in a hand and what that player may or may not do for the team. Many times a coach sees a player who went hitless in his last game and took a called third strike with the go ahead run on second base, or he recalls a pitcher who walked the leadoff hitter in the inning and gave up the winning run. Yes, there is a player inside that uniform, but there is also a person who has a family and struggles with various issues—perhaps grades, insecurities, a nagging injury, emotional stress from relationships or finances. How can a coach know these things unless the player trusts you enough to confide in you?

What do you think God sees when He looks at you? Is He pointing His finger at you and heaping guilt and shame? The answer to that question is a resounding NO. What He sees as He looks upon you is far different than you may think. God knows you intimately and He cares deeply for you. He wants a relationship with you and He wants you to trust Him. As a matter of fact, God wants to eliminate guilt and shame and replace them with peace and joy. Paul tells us in Romans 8:1: "Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus." Isn’t that great news? You don’t have to prove it, earn it or be punished for it…Paul assures us that there is NOW no condemnation.

So, back to the question, what does God see when He looks at you? He does not see sin, shame or condemnation. He rejoices over us with singing! Zephaniah 3:17 says, "The Lord God is with you. He is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing."

When we trust in Jesus, God sees the best in us. He sees Jesus and His righteousness. "God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we may become the righteousness of God." (2 Corinthians 5:21)

My prayer is that we all would experience the freedom that comes through a personal relationship with Christ and learn to look at others the way God looks at them instead of what they can do for us.

March 25, 2013

HOLDING HANDS

Your best pitcher goes down early in the season and you know your job is on the line. You receive a phone call from your wife only to hear that your daughter is being loaded into and ambulance. You are an athlete and you experience a potentially career ending injury; or, you are in the hospital waiting to hear what the doctor says about an aging parent.

Take a deep breath…wait, the heaviness is still there in your chest; it's the burden of conflict, worry, guilt or bad news. Take another deep breath and speak the name of Jesus. Ask Him to hold your hand, provide peace and give you the strength to take the next step, then the next.

Whether you are in an emergency room, funeral parlor or on the hot seat with your job or marriage, God has not abandoned you. He is there. He is reaching out His powerful hand to you. Trust Him, take His hand. He will help you through.Then, when you reach the other side of disappointment, heart break, financial woes, pain or grief, you will be a better, stronger person with more faith in the One who helped you. Once again you experience joy, peace and even a song in your heart.

It's easy to find meaning in clever quotes and positive Bible verses in the light of day, but in the darkness when negative thoughts creep in or tragedy strikes they sometimes seem distant—at least to me. That's when I simply speak the name of Jesus and allow my spiritual hand to reach for His.

February 28, 2013

THE LEGACY OF JOSEPH

Many friends and relatives knew him much better than me. But, I watched him for over 20 years from a distance—working on his family's five-acre plot of land that joined ours, shooting baskets in the driveway, and hanging out with friends playing games. He mowed our grass without being asked when my wife's father died of a stroke; and he stayed in our house to take care of our yellow lab, Babe, when we traveled—all without asking for pay. He helped us out of kindness.

Last week, at age 27, Joseph left this sometimes cruel world and joined the One who gave him kindness. A tragic car accident moved Joseph from earth to heaven. Joseph left a legacy of smiles, kindness and of being a good neighbor.

When Jesus calls me home, what legacy will I leave? What legacy will you leave? I know that God doesn't necessarily care if we leave a legacy of fame, power or wealth, but of love. Otherwise, why would Jesus answer a question from one of the teachers of the law the way He did?

"'Of all the commandments, which is the most important?' The most important one, answered Jesus, ‘is this: Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.'" (Mark 12: 286-31)

Joseph Gayheart's spirit of kindness to his neighbor will always be remembered. Today, and forever may all of us show kindness to someone. And, may all of us please God with the commandments that top them all…love God, love people.

February 6, 2013

TRUST

"Remember He is the Artist and you are only the picture. You can't see it. So quietly, submit to be painted..." C.S. Lewis

Occasionally, when I write a letter or send an E-mail to someone, I will place one of my favorite Bible verses at the bottom. The Word of God is powerful. Great men such as Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King sought wisdom and inspiration from Scripture. So, I enjoy sharing these "golden nuggets" with friends.

The verses I sometimes place near my salutation are Proverbs 3:5-6. These verses serve me as well as the receiver.

"Trust in the Lord with all of your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight."

Yesterday, these verses appeared in a devotional book that I am reading and the following thoughts occurred to me:

  • To trust someone with "all of your heart" means that we should know him well. You would not trust a mere acquaintance with anything, but you can trust a dear and trustworthy friend with everything—someone you know very well. Knowing someone this well would mean that you have spent quality time with him. So, we should spend time with God.


  • My "own understanding" of a trial or challenge is almost always inadequate. When facing life's everyday problems, I know that I have access to wisdom from God (James 1:5). Knowing that, I am foolish when I try to handle these trials alone.


  • It is good to "acknowledge" God in everything I do. Since He loves me and offers wisdom, it would be a good idea to include Him in all aspects of my life, including relationships, finances, work, projects, plans and ideas.


  • When I leave God out of my life, I waste time and find myself mired in frustration. I loose joy and peace. God never promised to make our lives easy or perfect, but He did promise that He would provide peace, wisdom and grace—if we only ask. "He will make [our] paths straight."

    November 7, 2012

    GOALS, MOTIVES AND PRIORITIES

    I was sharing with a friend of mine recently some "grand ideas" about improvements that I would like to make on our property. He jokingly said, "A man always needs a project to work on."

    You know, there is a lot of truth to that. I believe it was Aristotle who said, "A man is a goal seeking animal. His life has meaning only if he is striving to reach his goals."

    In my life, I have determined that real satisfaction and meaning only come if my motives and priorities are in the right place. If my goals are self-centered, even if I reach them, they are hollow and unfulfilling. When my dreams, projects and goals are centered on others, they are meaningful. When I ask God to be the architect, my goals bring real satisfaction and seem to require much less stress and work to complete. Solomon figured this out thousands of years ago. In Proverbs 16:3, he tells us "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and your plans will succeed." Jesus gives us even deeper advice in Matthew 6:33: "But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well."

    Bottom line; when we put God first and seek to please Him with our work, we find more energy, more help and less stress. Life is easier when we avoid "going against the grain." Commit your marriage, upcoming business plan, season and personal goals to the Lord. Ask Him for advice and guidance each day…and follow Him. Your life will not be perfect and you may not gain great wealth, but the peace and fulfillment will help you feel as though you are incredibly successful!.

    August 20, 2012

    "What we have here is failure to communicate." Baby Boomers or movie buffs will remember that classic movie line from "Cool Hand Luke" starring Paul Newman.

    Many times in business, athletics, ministry and especially in the world of politics, we experience a "failure to communicate." People either fail to articulate their position, or they fail to hear what is being communicated.

    Allow me to share a couple of tips about the art of communication:

    1. Don't assume. You may understand the point you are trying to make, but the person or group may not have a clue what you are talking about. When my youngest son, Tyler, was about four, I was teaching him how to hit in our backyard. His bat was too big; so, I kept telling him to "choke up." He would look at me bewildered and would continue to grip the bat at the bottom of the handle. Finally, after repeatedly admonishing him to choke up, he dropped the bat and put both hands on his throat! A four-year old's idea of choking up! Don't assume your audience understands your terminology. Jesus never tried to talk over anyone's head or impress with His vast knowledge. He communicated using parables and stories that His listeners could understand. He knew His audience.

    2. Listen. Think. Speak. Recently, I was watching a program on a cable news network. The moderator lost control of 3-person panel. They were all speaking at the same time with each one attempting to speak louder than the other. I quickly pounced on the remote and silenced the red-faced, screaming panel of "experts." I couldn't understand even one point each was trying to make! Listening has become a lost art.

    Ask God, through the Holy Spirit, to help you speak clearly and listen intently to everyone you come in contact with today. "...Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." (James 1:19)


    This year's College team Mission trip to the Dominican Republic proved to be a worthy, growing experience for all.


    One morning, the team visited a home for girls in the Dominican Republic.


    John Zeller (Exec. Director SCORE International) and Keith helped to lead and guide the young American high school and college baseball players while in the D.R.


    March 30, 2012

    Who Wins?

    Who will win the Final Four in New Orleans? As you can imagine, the state of Kentucky is buzzing with excitement, anticipation and energy with the Kentucky Wildcats and our rival 80 miles west, the Louisville Cardinals both in the "big dance." The entire state is talking and throwing verbal jabs across the airwaves and into cyberspace.

    But seriously, who will win? I have the answer. It happens every year in almost every team sport that competes on a "big stage." The team that has more heart wins. Having heart is incredibly important in life. The coaches for all four teams are looking for the same thing from their players this week…heart.

    God is looking for the same thing from each one of us. He wants men and women with heart! After all, Jesus said, "Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God" (Matthew 5:8). He also said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21). And, in Luke 6:45 Jesus said, "the good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart, his mouth speaks." If your heart is right, your feet will follow.

    What if your heart isn't "right?" What if you are not a "team player" and suffer from selfishness, greed, bitterness or a host of other evil things that seek control of all of our hearts? Only God can change your heart. In Ezekial 36:26, God says, "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." First, we must recognize that we need a new heart. God wants us to have a good heart. He wants us to win in the game of life.

    The most important things in life are matters of the heart. God has some wonderful things to say about these important issues. If it is work, He says this, "whatever you do, work at it with all of your heart, as working for the Lord and not for men."(Colossians 3:23). If it has to do with eternal life, He says, "For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you confess and are saved (Romans 10:10).

    The physical and intellectual gifts that God gives to us will only take us so far. The new heart that He gives will take us to the game ending buzzer, and beyond.

    October 26, 2011

    Worrying has been a constant battle in my life…family health issues, finances, recruiting, player injuries…etc. Some have even said that worrying is a sin. If so, I have surely been a sinful man! God has certainly helped me in this area in recent years. Through His Word and with recent devotional books that I have read, I have learned to trust God in all things. But, like any addict, I sometimes slip into this dark realm. When I regress and worry, at some point, I realize that peace is at my fingertips if I just open my Bible or fall on my knees and ask for peace. God is faithful. I am reminded of the words He spoke to Isaiah long ago: "For I am the Lord, your God, who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, ‘Do not fear; I will help you.'" (Isaiah 41:13) This is a great promise.

    Planning for tomorrow is time well spent; worrying about tomorrow is time wasted. According to my "NIV Study Notes," it is sometimes difficult to tell the difference. Careful planning is thinking ahead about goals, steps, schedules…and trusting in God's guidance.

    Author Sarah Young reminds us that "God divided time into days and nights so that we would have manageable portions of life to handle."

    Jesus tells us in Matthew 5:34: "Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own."

    Yes, worrying has always been my "thorn in the flesh," but Jesus told Paul: "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." (II Corinthians 12:9)

    July 6, 2011

    Be Still and Know That I Am God
    Psalm 46:10


    During my life as a coach, I would occasionally have teams or specific players on a team who would "sell" their philosophy to their teammates. Sometimes, they would even try to convince the coaching staff that their way was the best way. I always tried to be open to new ideas, but also thought that it was somewhat arrogant to think someone with no coaching experience would think his ideas were better than a coaching staff that would usually have a combined 50-years of coaching experience.

    As children of God, we, too, are somewhat arrogant. God has a plan how we should play the "Game of Life." He wants us to love our neighbor and we say, "No, not that guy. He really doesn't mean that I should love him!"

    He wants us to pray for our enemies, but we think, "How can we pray for someone who wants to bring harm to us?"

    I have finally learned that God doesn't want us to pray for our enemy's success, but to pray for their hearts and souls and for the way we see them as human beings.

    There are dozens of things God wants us to do, but we rationalize and continue to do what is more comfortable for us. To be perfectly honest, I cannot even come close to understanding the ways of God. God spoke through the prophet Isaiah and said this." For My thoughts are not your thoughts; neither are your ways My ways…As the heavens are higher than the earth so are My ways higher than your ways." (Isaiah 55:8-9)

    So, children should let parents be parents; employees should let bosses be bosses; students (and their parents) should let teachers be teachers; athletes (and their parents) should let coaches be coaches. And, we all should acknowledge that God is God…and we are not.

    April 11, 2011

    The Final Game

    After Elvis Presley reached "the top" and was known world-wide as "the King," a reporter asked him, "How does it feel to have fame, wealth and basically anything you want?" Elvis answered, "Alone."

    After spending 25 years as the head baseball coach at the University of Kentucky , I had just finished coaching my last home game. We had won, but there was a sadness and loneliness I had never felt before. Most of my family was there, many friends were there. One friend, Emmett Carney, had driven all the way down from Indianapolis on a weeknight just to be with me as I coached my last home game. The media was certainly there. As always, I gathered my team together in the outfield before addressing the media; then I went to the dugout to field questions from the press.

    Halfway through the interviews, I couldn't help but think, "In a few minutes I'm going to pick up my clipboard and fungo bat and walk through the gate to the locker room for the last time." I thought, "Maybe my sons will walk out with me like they did when they were little boys. That would keep me from being alone and feeling sad."

    The last question was asked, and as I took the final step out of the dugout, I looked down the right field line and saw my entire team and coaching staff waiting for me! It brought a smile to my face to think that someone thought enough of me to tell their teammates, "Let's don't let Coach walk of here for the last time, alone."

    Someday, I will make a much greater transition and a longer journey. I will cross the chasm from this temporary life to eternal life. Once again, I will not be alone. If we have trusted Christ as our Savior, He will take us by our right hand and lead us. It reminds me of an old song we use to sing at our little country church when I was a boy called "I Won't Have to Cross Jordan Alone." Moses brings this comfort and assurance to us in Deuteronomy 31:6b: "The Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."

    March 14, 2011

    A couple of weeks ago, while speaking in Georgia, I had the opportunity to visit with a cherished friend, Harold Morris, in a small town in the mountains of northeast Georgia. Former Yankee great Bobby Richardson introduced me to Harold in the late 80's. I had heard an audio tape of Harold's testimony and was intrigued. Bobby called to see if I wanted to join him in hearing Harold speak at the Major League All-Star Game Chapel. It took about one second for me to say, "Yes!"

    So, on a very warm July afternoon at Riverfront Stadium, I walked into a meeting room and watched Orel Hershiser, Gary Carter, Harold Reynolds and several other All-Stars walk in and take their seats. I was in awe being in the same room with so many great baseball players; but when Harold began to speak, tears began to well up in the eyes of these famous athletes and suddenly an ex-convict was THE star. His account of being sentenced to a double life sentence and then surrendering his heart to Christ on his knees in a dirty, lonely prison cell was even more moving in person than it was on the audio tape that I had heard. (Harold served 9 years in the Georgia State Penitentiary for a crime he did not commit. Through an incredible set of circumstances, he was later pardoned and became an internationally known speaker and author.)

    After the "chapel," Bobby invited me to have lunch with them. Over a bowl of chili, I felt compelled to ask Harold if he would be willing to come to the University of Kentucky and speak to our athletes. Initially, he said "no" since his speaking schedule was so full all across the U.S. But within a few minutes, Harold looked at the former Yankee second baseman and said, "Hey Bobby, if you will go with me, I will go to Lexington and speak to the Wildcats." Bobby agreed and within days we were making plans.

    Later that summer as I was talking to Harold on the telephone, he said, "You know, this year I have spoken to thousands. Since I am going to make the trip to Kentucky, why not invite some campus leaders, pastors and civic leaders to join the coaches and athletes and use this event to spearhead a city wide rally where perhaps several thousand can hear my message?" I agreed and then began to think, "What am I doing? I have never organized events before. I'm just a baseball coach!" I put a committee together and we began to pray. I secured the Student Center Ballroom and was told that it would seat 900. We sent out the invitations….I really don't know how many we sent…..and 900 hundred people showed up! Not one seat was empty! Harold was dynamic as he shared his message of hope, redemption, the affects of negative peer pressure and his faith in Christ.

    We were all thrilled that Harold's message was so well received. At least 90% of the people attending had never heard of Harold Morris, yet they came. Our committee immediately began to explore possibilities for a larger area-wide rally. Each time we met, state FCA Director Steele Harmon would urge us to pray. We decided to go forward in faith and secure Memorial Coliseum on UK's campus as our venue. But, I was concerned that the Coliseum seated over 10,000 and that if even 5,000 people showed up, the place would look empty. During one committee meeting, another committee member, Lee Eaton, said he had been fervently praying for the event and he believed God wanted us to have the event in Rupp Arena! My faith wasn't as strong as Lee's and I began to worry about cost and how bad it would look if only a few thousand people showed up in a building that seats 24,000! Only the Wildcat basketball team could fill up Rupp Arena! Lee, a successful horseman in Kentucky said, "Coach, if you will agree to pursue Rupp Arena, I will pay the rental fee." Steele encouraged us to pray as a group and before the night was over we had unanimously agreed on Rupp Arena. None of us knew anything about marketing or promoting events. We did contact Focus on the Family and they agreed to help us with some radio promotions on the local Christian radio station. Other than that, we were on our own.

    About six months later on February 19, 1989, Harold and my family arrived early and stood on the floor at Rupp Arena watching thousands of people pour in to the huge arena. Every one of the 24,000 seats was taken and over 2,000 stood outside listening to Harold's message through the speaker system! Over 20 years later, people come up to me and say, "I will never forget the Harold Morris event at Rupp Arena. It changed my life!"

    I tell you this story not to say, "Look what we accomplished." But to say "Look what God can accomplish!" I say this to encourage you to be available, obedient and to pray. Harold Morris and Bobby Richardson have been faithful and obedient servants for many years. God can use even "normal" people like you and me to accomplish wonderful acts that honor Him.

    You know, that's not even the end of the story. People from Louisville, Knoxville and other cities with large arenas were in attendance and within a couple of years thousands of people were streaming in to Freedom Hall, Thompson-Boling Arena and other venues all across America to hear an exconvict, with a great gift, share Christ's message of forgiveness and reconciliation.

    January 24, 2011

    God Has Your Back

    In the baseball world you are identified in many ways; but more so than in any other sport, a baseball player is identified as either a "right-hander" or "left-hander." Perhaps that is the reason a particular verse in Isaiah sort of jumped off the page as I read it last week. More importantly, it impacted me because of a particular trial I was going through at the time. Notice the confidence, assurance and power of Isaiah 41:13,

    "For I am the Lord, your God,
    who takes hold of your right hand
    and says to you, Do not fear;
    I will help you."


    Notice that God didn't say that He would eliminate the problem, although He has the power to do so if He chooses. He did promise that He would help. I truly believe that He wants to help us and He wants us to ask Him to help us. I heard Andy Stanley once say, "God is a 'big God' and He wants us to pray 'big prayers.'"

    God knows that we grow when we go through trials, but that doesn't mean we have to go through them alone. He has our back, and our right hand.

    December 9, 2010

    The Christmas Haircut

    My sister was in the 6th grade, my brother in the 4th and I was in the 2nd grade—all of seven years old. I am 59 now, and many Christmases have come and gone, but I still remember what happened to my brother after the Christmas break in 1959.

    It was the first day back at school after Christmas; and my 9-year old brother was very quiet as we walked home from the bus stop. My mother immediately noticed his sad countenance and asked him, "What went wrong today at school?"

    Tom replied that his teacher had asked each student what they had received as Christmas presents and all of them were excited to share about new bicycles, basketballs, winter coats and various types of toys. Dropping his head, Tom said, "One boy answered, 'I got a haircut.'"

    My mother almost cried and my sister and I became as sad as my brother. We were a relatively poor Kentucky family during the late 50's, but my mother knew exactly what to do. She immediately began searching through our clothes and toys looking for something to give. After working it out with the fourth grade teacher, the boy with only a haircut for Christmas received some slightly used clothes and toys for a belated Christmas.

    At age seven, I learned that it is "more blessed to give than to receive." As a child and an adult, I must admit it is exciting to receive gifts; but when you give from your heart, there is a quiet warmth and joy from deep within.

    Two thousand years ago, the world had a problem, and we still have it. It's called sin. God knew that the only way to solve this problem of sin was to give. And give He did. He gave us Jesus. The little boy with the new Christmas haircut gladly received the gifts we gave, but because of pride and sometimes intellectual arrogance, many people refuse to acknowledge the need to receive; so, the greatest Gift of all, forgiveness and eternal life, is refused. Receiving the Gift is not about being good enough or smart enough. It's about recognizing the need for forgiveness and having the faith to receive it.

      "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." (John 3:16)

    November 12, 2010

    Tomorrow morning, Sharon and I will leave for the Dominican Republic . We are helping lead almost 240 American coaches, professional players and businessmen on a short term mission trip call the "November Baseball Outreach." We will conduct free clinics for over 6,000 boys. We will also distribute food, work in orphanages and simply attempt to serve. We are excited that Mariano Rivera and Andy Pettitte will join us! This is a huge undertaking. We can not do it alone.

    Please pray for us! Hopefully, the short devotional below will be an encouragement.


    Win Can Win

    It was disappointing to read in the paper about some professional baseball scouts who were caught giving into greed. They accepted kickbacks from signing bonuses targeting players from impoverished Latin American countries. One scout, if convicted, could face up to 20 years in prison.

    It's easy to justify. Most professional baseball scouts do not make six figure incomes like major league managers. They don't even come close to earning the mega bucks that most of the players they sign eventually earn.

    Professional baseball scouts, coaches, athletes, students, executives and CEOs all face the temptation and hear a voice saying, "If you don't cheat, your competition will, and you will lose..."

    Or that voice from the enemy says, "You deserve a better car, better house, the first class life style..."

    The bottom line is that when you cheat, you always loose; and if you get caught cheating, you face shame and humiliation.

    Through faith in Christ and trust in Him, we don't have to fight the battle of temptation alone. Listen to this Great News from II Peter 1:3-4:

      (3) His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of Him who called us by His own glory and goodness.

      (4) Through these, He has given us His very great and precious promises, so that through them you may partake in this divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.
    Peter tells us that God has given us everything we need for life and godliness; and we (yes, even you and I) may participate in the divine nature and escape corruption! We have forgiveness through Christ for the mistakes we have already made (I John 1:19). We also have access to strength and power from God's throne to escape corruption.

    The bottom line... if we keep God on our team every hour of the day, we win.

    September 23, 2010

    Cathedral of Trees

    This "e-devotion" (click here) is not really a devotional. It is a story about a recent trip with a group of college baseball players in a very remote area of the Dominican Republic. I recently told this story at a golf tournament, of all places, and the response was such that I thought I would share it with you.

    I must tell you something that I didn't share with the golfers….when we first arrived, one of our missionaries, Giovanny Valdez, decided to play a joke on the American baseball players. He asked them to sing a song to the people of this remote village. The players did not know that Giovanny was kidding, got their heads together and came up with the only song all of them knew…."Jesus Loves Me." What started as a joke became a sacred moment as these college athletes (not singers!) sang to this poor and hungry group from their hearts. I will never forget it.

    I hope that you enjoy the short story - click here.

    "Work as if everything depends upon you; yet pray, knowing that everything depends upon God." (Ignatius)

    August 4, 2010

    Ask for Wisdom

    Recently I spent an entire week with the founder of SCORE International, Ron Bishop. He started the ministry back in 1985 after a very successful career as a college basketball coach. Since Ron is a former coach, we speak the same language. I'm always motivated and encouraged after spending time with Ron. One of the things I always take away from my time with him is a little more wisdom. He can be very honest and very direct; but like any good coach, he almost always uses the "sandwich theory." If he wants me to make an adjustment, he starts off with a positive statement, throws in some constructive criticism in the middle and then finishes with a positive. As a result, I always leave feeling better about myself while at the same time knowing exactly what I need to do to be more effective in my role with SCORE International.

    We should always attempt to surround ourselves with people possessing wisdom. If you don't have a person with wisdom in your life, find one. And, when you find that person make it a priority to hone your listening skills and soak in all that you can. Knowledge and education are important; I don't want to minimize their significance, but we all have seen educated fools! Seek wisdom over all things and you will be blessed.

    King David taught his son, Solomon, the importance of wisdom. You may recall the story given to us in Kings 3:5-12:

      At Gibeon the Lord appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, 'Ask for whatever you want me to give you.' Solomon answered, 'You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David, because he was faithful to you and righteous and upright in heart. You have continued this great kindness to him and have given him a son to sit on his throne this very day. Now, O Lord my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?' The Lord was pleased that Solomon asked for this. So God said to him, 'Since you asked for this and not for a long life or wealth for yourself, nor have you asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do for you what you asked. I will give to you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both riches and honor so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings. And if you walk in my ways and obey my commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life.'

    The foolish decisions I have made in my life are a direct result of not seeking wisdom from God and godly friends with discernment. It is amazing what we have access to and yet do not take advantage of. The gift of wisdom (James 1:5) is one of God's great promises to us. Who would not want the wisdom of God?

    June 24, 2010

    Hall of Fame Tools

    In baseball, professional scouts talk about "tools." Tools are gifts that players have been blessed with. The ultimate gifted player is considered a "Five Tool Player." This means that he can run, hit, hit with power, field and throw—all exceptionally well. A player doesn't need all of these "tools" in order to make it to the major leagues, but if he possesses all five tools, practices and competes to win, he will not only make it to the majors, he will also have a chance to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame!

    I am reminded of the "tools" the Apostle Paul informs us that we can all have as believers in Christ. Paul calls these tools the "Fruit of the Spirit." In Galatians 5:22, we learn that "the fruit of the Spirit" is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control." I know very few people who take advantage of all the "Fruits" God has made available to us through His Spirit.

    More often than not, I do not exude love or joy. I don't always have peace and I am not normally a patient person. Sometimes, I'm not even kind to the people closest to me, much less strangers. I'm not always as faithful to God as I should be. But, I have improved my self-control since I am no longer coaching! The truth of the matter is: I could be excellent in all of these areas. I could be a "Nine Tool Player" for God!

    As believers in Christ, we all have access to the "Fruit of the Spirit." As we pray each day, we can ask God to help us to be more loving, patient, kind and gentle, good and faithful, and, to have more self-control…then the joy will come. We can't do this on our own, but God will help, if we only ask.

    May 11, 2010

    Disappointment

    During the spring of 1972, I suffered one of the longest nights of my life. I had just been released from the Montreal Expos Baseball Club and was forced to take an early exit from spring training. That night, trying to sleep in my own bed in my parent's house, I tossed and turned feeling the heartbreak, rejection and humiliation of being told that at age 20, I was damaged goods—no longer needed.

    I loved baseball. I had dreamed all my life about pitching in the major leagues and making my family and my friends back home proud. Instead, I would be explaining to everyone who knew me why I didn't "make it" to the Big Leagues.

    Of course, hind sight is 20-20. Now, I can see that God had a better plan for my life: a wife, two sons, two grandsons, a 25-year career as a major college coach and a second career in sports ministry. But, during that long night over 30 years ago, I was heartbroken, my spirit was crushed and my confidence was shattered.

    At 2:00 that morning, I finally left my bed feeling miserable and alone. I saw the guest bedroom light shining under the closed door; obviously, my mother was having a restless night as well and was up late reading. I felt compelled to knock on her door and complain to her how miserable I felt, but as soon as I opened the door, no words came out of my mouth—only tears escaped from my eyes. After a few minutes, I was able to speak and I said, "I have failed, I'm a nobody." I don't remember a word she said, perhaps she didn't say anything, but she was there. She understood. She shared my disappointment.

    No matter where you are or what circumstance you face, you are not alone. No matter how painful the heartbreak or how deep the loss, there is Someone who will be there to give you strength, healing and comfort. His name is Jesus. In Psalm 34:18, David speaks this truth: "The Lord is close to the broken hearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."

    April 1, 2010

    Cathedrals and Locker Rooms

    As a college baseball coach for so many years, I would spend many Good Fridays and Easter Sundays in hotel rooms, locker rooms and on baseball fields. Thousands of coaches and athletes will be doing the same this weekend.

    Although many Easter Sundays were spent away from family and church because of competition, there were many meaningful chapels held in home and visiting locker rooms. Occasionally, we would even invite the visiting team and the families of both teams to join us for a special Easter morning celebration.

    This morning, I was thinking of many different ways Christians around the world—including coaches and athletes---will celebrate Easter.

    Millions will worship Christ this weekend and millions will be reminded of the darkest day in the history of the world (Good Friday and the most joyous day of all days (Easter Sunday). Some will worship in secret for fear of persecution; some will worship in cathedrals, country churches, hospitals and nursing homes, but all who worship Christ will worship the Son of God. We do not worship a dead prophet; we worship a risen Savior!

    There aren't an abundance of quotes by angels in Scripture. On the rare occasions God allowed angels to speak to men and women, profound statements were made…none more profound and amazing than this: "He is not here; He has risen!"

    January 19, 2010

    Competition and Composure

    When I was a very small boy, my father would listen to the University of Kentucky basketball games on the radio. So, like many Kentucky boys growing up, I wanted to play basketball for the Wildcats. God had a good and different plan for me...

    My baseball skills exceeded my hoop skills; and eventually, I became the head baseball coach in the athletic program that I loved. Even though I spent 25 years on the baseball field, I have remained a huge Wildcat basketball fan. Currently, "we" are the only undefeated team in the nation with three freshmen in the lineup!

    One of our talented freshmen plays the game with passion and he is a powerful force on the court. He sometimes loses his temper; and, recently, he has been "baited" by older and more experienced players. They push and shove him and occasionally throw an elbow in his rib cage when the referees aren't looking. Our big freshman center is trying to learn not to lose his temper and react to the strategic attacking of his weakness.

    How do you react when people push the button that causes you to react or defend yourself with angry, caustic words and actions? I must admit, my pride sometimes causes me to lash out at things people say or may write about me. When the "rumor mill" finds its way to me, I want to emphatically set the record straight. How did Jesus respond to false charges? Isaiah prophesied how Jesus would react. "He was oppressed and afflicted, yet he did not open His mouth; He was led like a Lamb to the slaughter; and as a sheep before his shearer is silent, so He did not open His mouth. (Isaiah 53:7)

    As followers of Christ, we should strive to be more like Him…courageously knowing that "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31)

    James gave us great counsel in his book of wisdom; "Be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry" (James 1:19)

    Great advice for a freshman basketball player and great advice for me and you!

    January 2010

    Stay the Course

    Many times in the world of business and athletics, we see "successful" people take short cuts, bend and even break rules on their way to profit or victory. But, aren't the financial awards and victories achieved by cheating, abuse of power and selfish motives shallow and hollow in the end? What King David said in Psalm 37 is still true today.

    1 Do not fret because of evil men or be envious of those who do wrong; 2 for like the grass they will soon wither, like green plants they will soon die away. 3 Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. 4 Delight yourself in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this: 6 He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun. 7 Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him; do not fret when men succeed in their ways, when they carry out their wicked schemes. 8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath; do not fret—it leads only to evil. 9 For evil men will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.

    My challenge and encouragement to you for 2010 and beyond is this…stay the course, fight the good fight and commit to pleasing God with your words, actions and deeds. Treat your co-workers, teammates, family and even the competition justly and fairly. Then, "God will make your righteousness shine like the dawn, the justice of your cause like the noonday sun." (Psalm 37:6)

    December 2009

    The Gift of Compassion

    Few of us would disagree that the Christmas season has become too commercial, too stressful and too long. But, perhaps, if we focus on the right gift we could eliminate the commercialism and the stress and keep the joy all year long.

    To illustrate, we all need to look at a parable not usually associated with Christmas--the Parable of the Good Samaritan. We know that thieves robbed and beat a man on the road between Jerusalem and Jericho, leaving him naked and close to death. We also know that a priest and a Levite not only didn't help this severely injured traveler but passed on the other side of the road to avoid him. But then came the Samaritan. The Samaritan "came to where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, took him to an inn and took care of him." (Luke 10:33-34) The Samaritan even gave the innkeeper money to look after the injured man.

    While discussing this parable in our Sunday school class recently, classmate Roy Lauter shared this: "The thief said, 'What is yours is mine and I'm going to take it.' The priest and the Levite said, 'What is mine is mine and I'm going to keep it!' The Samaritan said, 'What is mine is yours and I'm going to give it.'"

    Many of us may not be able to purchase expensive gifts for friends and family this Christmas, but we can all give the gift of compassion. Johnny Hunt once said, "You are never more like Christ than when you give."

    November 2009

    "Don't walk in front of me, I may not follow. Don't walk behind me, I may not lead. Just walk beside me and be my friend." Albert Carnus

    In the very last chapter of John 's magnificent Gospel, there is a simple illustration of the love Jesus has for us and His willingness to be our "friend."

    After the resurrection, Jesus began appearing to His disciples. After His betrayal, arrest and journey to the cross, all but one of His disciples had abandoned and denied knowing Jesus. So, it makes sense that this group of men, the disciples, would feel lost, guilty and distant from Jesus.

    John tells the story better than I ever could, after all he was there! So, read this short account of a very interesting fishing trip: (John 21:4-14)

    4 Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus. 5 He called out to them, "Friends haven't you any fish?" "No," they answered. 6 He said, "Throw your net on the right side of the boat and you will find some." When they did, they were unable to haul the net in because of the large number of fish. 7 Then the disciple whom Jesus loved said to Peter, "It is the Lord!" As soon as Simon Peter heard him say, "It is the Lord," he wrapped his outer garment around him (for he had taken it off) and jumped into the water. 8 The other disciples followed in the boat, towing the net full of fish, for they were not far from shore, about a hundred yards. 9 When they landed, they saw a fire of burning coals there with fish on it, and some bread. 10 Jesus said to them, "Bring some of the fish you have just caught." 11 Simon Peter climbed aboard and dragged the net ashore. It was full of large fish, 153, but even with so many the net was not torn. 12 Jesus said to them, "Come and have breakfast." None of the disciples dared ask him, "Who are you?" They knew it was the Lord. 13 Jesus came, took the bread and gave it to them, and did the same with the fish. 14 This was now the third time Jesus appeared to his disciples after he was raised from the dead.

    Consider this: only a few days after the disciples scattered like a covey of quail at a time when Jesus needed them most, Jesus shows up on the shore where they were fishing. He didn't come to preach to them, heap guilt on them or say, "A fine group of disciples you turned out to be!" No, he came to help them catch some nice, large fish, call them "friends," and cook a warm breakfast over some hot coals for them.

    While reading this simple but beautiful story of friendship, I was once again amazed at the love of Christ and His desire to help us, spend time with us and be our true and faithful friend. He forgives and forgets our past and says, "Come, have some breakfast with me." What a friend we have in Jesus!

    October 2009

    "…Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." (James 1:19)

    Early this morning, I walked out to the end of our long driveway to pick up the newspaper and empty garbage can. For some reason when I arrived at the end of the driveway, I stopped and listened. I identified at least three different birds that were chirping and singing a "Good Morning" to me. I take this same walk every morning that I am at home and not traveling. How many mornings have I ignored these beautiful sounds? We have bird feeders, bird baths and bird houses on our property and I do frequently observe the beauty of these winged gifts from God, but to be honest, I very seldom listen. You see, listening takes time. Many times, to be honest, I'm just too busy and too into my own world to stop and listen to the beautiful sounds God has given us.

    It is the same from my devotional time with God. I pray, read and then move on with my day. Rick Warren says, "Usually we're in too much of a hurry to do this (listen to God). We often just say, 'Hi, God, it's me. I've got ten things I need from You. Thank You. Over-and-out. Goodbye.'"

    May I say the obvious? It is extremely important to listen to God, to hear what He has to say. The writer of Hebrews says, "We must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away." (Hebrews 2:1 NIV)

    In John 10:16, Jesus says, "My sheep will listen to my voice."

    I want to learn to be a good listener, to truly care deeply about what my wife, family, friends and others say. Mostly, I want to learn to better listen to God. Prayer is 50% talking and 50% listening!

    To learn more about the importance of listening to God read: I Kings 19:11-13, Mark 4:9 and Luke 6:49.



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    SCORE International will gladly accept your donation of new or used baseball equipment. Gloves, bats, cleats and other items are all collected and taken personally by Keith & Sharon Madison to the Dominican Republic as part of their mission work.

    For more information on how to donate in the Louisville/Kentuckiana area please contact Eric Erwin at 502-216-9006.

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    Used equipment may also be dropped off in person at area Rafferty's restaurants (Nicholasville Rd & in Hamburg Place).

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