311 -- Rounding Third for Heaven
Wednesday in Godsfield -- Redeem with Kindness -- November 27, 2024
Study this photo. (Let it be any team you want it to be; it doesn't have to be the Cubs!)
You know exactly the situation, the batter has hit a walk-off home-run to win the game in the bottom of the ninth (or extra) inning, and as he rounds third you see everyone on the team gathered at home and the crowd of witnesses rejoicing in the background.
I read of a man (nameless to me) who collects such photos because it reminds him of what Heaven will be like.
Look at this photo again. That's you rounding third, heading for home. There is your whole team, everyone God put in your life -- managers, fielders, specialized teammates so that you could fit into your position in the Kingdom, and all the people cheering you on. You are excited, because you know the deal is done; now it's just a matter of running to the reward.
Yes, Jesus knocked it out of the park for you, but don't overdue this analogy; (I'm talking to myself right now!) this is no less a celebration for you, because these are your steps, your team, your journey, your celebration.
And you know it. And because of this walk-off reality, you can smile and rejoice and love and forgive and redeem with kindness, because you are rounding third.
Yesterday, Pam and I watched the movie "Bonhoeffer," in the theater. Go. See it. Not a gladiator, not an X-man, not a computer-generated robo-cop, but a flesh and blood child of God, whose journey took him through Nazi Germany, to traverse the fogginess of evil attacking faith, out of religion and into Jesus.
He is not a baseball player, but this photo is every bit his experience at the end of the movie. Angel studios creates the kind of movies you want in the theaters.
And if you are feeling like the holidays are suddenly upon you, or at least the season of preparation, rejoice! Receive it, welcome it, live it, enjoy it. Just like any other day the Lord has made. You only get this day once!
So, round third and head for home!
Love ya,
Paul