I’m a Yankees fan. Sorry, I know many fans hate them. It probably makes little sense for a kid from Nebraska to fall in love with a baseball team on the East Coast. Still, I idolized Mickey Mantle during his best years in MLB. However, there was another Yankee who was less well known and stood out for more than his ability—Bobby Richardson. One of the highlights of my 28 years of ministry with FCA was hosting Bobby at my FCA Banquet shortly after he led Mickey Mantle to the Lord on his deathbed. 

Richardson was a star for the Yankees from 1955 to 1966. He became the only player from the losing team to be named MVP of the 1960 World Series. But beyond the diamond, Bobby influenced many more people through his incredible gift for telling stories, teaching Scripture, and preaching the gospel. While he had a successful coaching career, he will be best known and loved by many within FCA for his willingness to share his faith around the country. 

1 Peter 2 – Peter’s Principles

Bobby Richardson impacted others for Christ by practicing the principles Peter outlined in 1 Peter 2:11-12. Here are several assessment questions for each principle:

1. Would your teammates be able to identify you as a stone belonging to God’s temple?
2. Suppose you were accused of wrongdoing in sports. Would your coaches, teammates, or fans be surprised, or would they think this behavior is consistent with your character?
3. Do you compartmentalize your faith, so you’re a “Sunday Christian” who does your best deeds only on that day, or do you let the light of the Holy Spirit shine before others, drawing attention to Christ in you?
4. Do you lower your standards when dealing with non-believers, or do you maintain your Christian convictions?

The Kingdom Coach and Athlete cultivate attitudes and actions that mark them as part of God’s royal priesthood, a chosen race, a holy nation, and a unique people of God.

Bible Memory Verse –“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” James 1:5 (LSB)

Click HERE for the Kingdom Sports Minute: Becoming Living Stones

Our featured book this week is Grit (From Daily Grind to Lasting Greatness) by Ron Brown and Gordon Thiessen. This is book 5 of The Total Athlete Series. Whether you are an athlete striving to finish strong, a coach investing in others, a parent encouraging the next generation, or a believer navigating life’s challenges, Grit will inspire you to embrace the daily grind with purpose and pursue a greatness that lasts far beyond the final whistle. Click HERE to review. 

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