Missed Chances

Mark 10:17-23
21 Jesus looked at him and loved him. “One thing you lack,” he said. “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
For the ones that know me the most, I love the game of baseball. I enjoy the strategy, history, and lessons that the game of baseball teaches. Growing up my favorite position to play was catcher because I felt like I was the most important on the field. Little prideful I would say. My favorite field to catch was at Woodland Mills because I felt I was playing at Yankee stadium because of the large backstop. However, if a ball passes by the catcher runners would advance to the next base easily and the game can change quickly. This was the case in the 1941 World Series.  There is a moment in New York Yankee history that is known as "The greatest passed ball". A website and podcast dedicated to Yankees Baseball History called Bronx Pinstripes did an article on this event. It's game 4 of the 1941 World Series. The Yankees are only 2 wins away from winning their 9th championship. During this game, the Dodgers were winning 4-3 with only 1 strike left from winning the game and tying the series 2 to 2. The Dodgers ended up losing the game because their catcher Mickey Owen missed a ball that eventually lead to the winning run coming in. The Yankees would win the 1941 World Series the next day. You can read more about this at the link below.
The Dodgers missed an opportunity but so did the rich ruler. He focused on keeping the commandments that when Jesus told him to go sell everything and to follow him he became sad. Why? because he cared more about his wealth or personal belongs than giving his all for Jesus. When I played baseball I would give it my all but I wouldn't for Jesus. This was because my heart was somewhere else. For others, it may be their job, reputation, social media, or other things. The truth is there isn't anything in this world that is more important than Jesus. The rich man missed a chance at what money couldn't buy and that was the gift of eternal life. What is more important to you than your walk with Jesus? Let's not miss the chance of living a great life that only Jesus gives. I encourage you to read the book of Mark with me and to get to see a brief overview of Jesus. 
Prayer:
Lord if there is anything in my life that is more important than living for you I ask that you show me. Open up the opportunities for me to give others the chance to experience your love and the gift of eternal life.
Reference Link:
http://bronxpinstripes.com/yankees-history/the-passed-ball-that-changed-yankees-vs-dodgers-forever/

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