Coaching T-Ball

Have any of you every coached t-ball? Anything remotely close to it? I have had the pleasure of coaching Gracyn's 5 yearold t-ball team. I didn't volunteer to coach, but a couple of the other coaches fell through. That being said, it has truly been enjoyable. Some of the experiences from practices and games have given me pause to reflect on my faith. Sound crazy? Bear with me...

After our first game, I quickly noticed we needed to address fielding our own positions. I had left fielders trying to catch a grounder at home plate, third basemen running to tag a runner at first base, and pitchers chasing down balls in the outfield. Hilarious, yes, but as the coach I needed to teach them fundamentals. Each kid out on the field wanted a chance to field and through the ball. So, next practice we spent some time on staying in your area. If you don't, the ball may need to be thrown your way and no one will be there. Further, you may cause someone else on your team to miss out.

Similarly, that is what we discussed in our book. How often do we chase the fun stuff? We want to be included in the action, but don't see the larger picture of the importance of minding our own position, one that suits our skills. Our lives and our faith involve teamwork and God as our coach sees where our strengths lie and places each of us strategically to give the team the best chance to win.

Another tendency I have observed is that the kids express a much larger desire to hit the ball, than to run bases or practice catching the ball. Hitting is so much more fun. I understand. Taking time to learn the basics of fielding a grounder over and over again quickly grows mundane. Practicing running back and forth between bases at the contact of the ball from the hitter grows old as well. However, to be able to stay in the line up, a player must possess the skills to playboth offense and defense; you have to learn both skills, even though you may think one of them lacks fun and intrigue.

Likewise, as Christians, we often want to engage in the "fun" and "exciting" aspects of the Christian lifestyle. Many of us fail to muster enthusiasm for the tedious or unexhilarating aspects of our faith. However, what excites me, may not excite you. I believe that, though, we each inhibit special gifts to be used in the fabric of a master plan, we also must undertake roles and tasks that we may not find "fun." My dad used to say those tasks "put hair on your chest." I opt for simply building character.

I'm sure that even though Moses was a reluctant leader, he found great satisfaction in leading his people. I am also confident that there were parts of the job he found unrewarding at face value. But viewed in a grander and more complex framework, he could appreciate the smaller and less stimulating facets.

I guess my point is that we should challenge ourselves to embrace the less glorious and less "fun" aspects of a daily Christian lifestyle with the faith that we are serving a greater purpose and a master planner. Anyone with me or am I way off the mark here?