God's Coaching #297

God's Coaching #297

The 1992 World Series had people from multiple countries on the edges of their seats. In 1992, the Toronto Blue Jays defeated the Atlanta Braves in six games to win the first baseball world championship for a team in Canada. Four of the six games were decided by one run, and the final game went to extra innings—which added to the excitement.

Atlanta won the first game, thanks to a great pitching performance from Tom Glavine. But the underdog Blue Jays claimed game two following Ed Sprague’s pinch-hit, two-run home run in the ninth inning. Game three was tied 2–2 in the ninth before Candy Maldonado singled in the winning run. Toronto made it three straight victories by claiming a 2–1 decision in game four. After Atlanta won the fifth game, the series went back to Georgia. However, it wasn’t a happy homecoming. With the game tied 2–2 in the 11th inning, 41-year-old Blue Jays outfielder Dave Winfield stepped to the plate and hammered a pitch down the left field line to score two runs. The game ended 4–3, and Toronto had won the World Series.

What’s the Score?

The victory set off a huge celebration in Canada and around the world. The Blue Jays were truly an international team. The squad featured a player from Puerto Rico, a Jamaican, three players from the Dominican Republic, and no Canadians. Toronto showed that a team of players from around the world could be the best in baseball. Today, players from nearly 20 countries can be found playing on Major League Baseball teams.

As popular as baseball is, it doesn’t compare to the Christian faith. Christianity is the most popular religion in the world. Nearly 2.2 billion people follow the teachings of Jesus Christ. As believers in Christ, we’re stronger when we join together with our talents—just like the Blue Jays did. The Bible says that God doesn’t show favoritism (Acts 10:34). He died for all people. Anybody who prays to accept Jesus becomes part of God’s team. And that’s a pretty strong team!

On the Ball

God accepts people from all nations who pray to him and do what is right. But some nations treat Christians badly—even burning their houses or throwing them in jail. Pray for people in other nations who get persecuted for their faith in Christ.

Coach’s Comment

Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right.” Acts 10:34-35