Having a Little Fun

1 Corinthians 9:24

Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.

The baseball season is about to begin. Carolyn and I spent a few days in Sarasota this spring – watching our favorite MLB team – the Baltimore Orioles. It was something I always wanted to do – so for my birthday – we went down. Carolyn planned 90% of the trip and she did a wonderful job. Our accommodations were amazing.

Is there something you’ve always wanted to do? This was one of mine. With the baseball season just around the corner – I thought we could have a little fun. Please take the poll included in this devotional post. Pick your favorite baseball team. I’ve included most of the local teams. If I didn’t pick your team – there is a selection for you and you can post your favorite team in the comments.

Today’s passage is very familiar. Here it is in partial context. 1 Corinthians 9:24–27 – ²⁴ Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. ²⁵ Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. ²⁶ Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. ²⁷ No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.

I believe Paul was making a reference to the Olympics here – how athletes prepare themselves for their event – to run the race – to fight in the arena – to win the prize – to win their event. He reminds us that we should prepare ourselves for our walk with the Lord as well. He writes about his spiritual discipline and how he prepares – constantly – to run the race to please God.

The athlete runs the race to win a temporary prize – while living for Jesus – we receive eternal life. My prayer today – even as we have a little fun – is that each of us will keep our eyes on Jesus. EVERYTHING else is temporary! Jesus is eternal!

So – we went to spring training – and saw this year’s version of the Baltimore Orioles coming together. The players are trying hard to train and prepare to make the team – and to win this coming season. They are young and in great shape and have visions of winning – like they did last year. Our hope is for them to have another great season. So – which team are you rooting for this year? Pick your favorite team in our poll.

Thanks for taking the poll. Come back to see the results. I hope your team brings you enjoyment this year. I also pray that we walk the walk and seek after Jesus more and more this year.

Just something for us to think about today as we go on our way!