This past week my family and I visited the northeastern region of the United States. We drove the scenic byways and witnessed firsthand the majestic beauty of a New England Autumn. The colorful displays of changing leaves were yet another testimony of the artistry of our awesome God. While we were there we also witnessed another fascinating phenomenon, “Red Sox Nation.”
First, let me state right up front that I have been a NY Yankee fan since I was a boy. (Yea, yea I know they got beat and are out of the playoffs, but there is always next year!) Now everyone knows that you can’t be a Yankee fan and a Red Sox fan, it is mentally, physically and spiritually impossible. But even sworn enemies can admire the loyalty and passion of their archrivals. Everywhere we went we were surrounded by a sea of Red Sox hats, shirts, and jackets. It would seem that no self respecting New Englander would dare go out in public without a visible display of their undying allegiance to the BoSox. Even the homeless could be seen sporting a Red Sox jersey or cap. Every restaurant and place of business proudly displayed posters and banners honoring their beloved heroes. You name it and it had Red Sox on it.
As we toured the Holiest of Holies (Fenway Park) I was truly moved by the respect and reverence given to the history and heritage of this hallowed piece of ground.
I guess the thing that most impressed me was the sense of belonging and camaraderie that seemed to pervade the atmosphere. There was an unspoken, yet tangible unity and commitment to a common cause. It made me wish that I could be a member of “Red Sox Nation”.
I think we who call ourselves Christians could learn some lessons from these diehard fans. Think about it, when was the last time that you made someone wish that they could be a member of “Jesus Nation”?
P.S. While in New England we also experienced the awesome hospitality of some of Red Sox Nations finest, the Giguere family.
Thank you Brian, Sarah, Kyle and Karleigh for opening your home to us and making us feel so welcome. You were a true expression of “Jesus Nation!”
First, let me state right up front that I have been a NY Yankee fan since I was a boy. (Yea, yea I know they got beat and are out of the playoffs, but there is always next year!) Now everyone knows that you can’t be a Yankee fan and a Red Sox fan, it is mentally, physically and spiritually impossible. But even sworn enemies can admire the loyalty and passion of their archrivals. Everywhere we went we were surrounded by a sea of Red Sox hats, shirts, and jackets. It would seem that no self respecting New Englander would dare go out in public without a visible display of their undying allegiance to the BoSox. Even the homeless could be seen sporting a Red Sox jersey or cap. Every restaurant and place of business proudly displayed posters and banners honoring their beloved heroes. You name it and it had Red Sox on it.
As we toured the Holiest of Holies (Fenway Park) I was truly moved by the respect and reverence given to the history and heritage of this hallowed piece of ground.
I guess the thing that most impressed me was the sense of belonging and camaraderie that seemed to pervade the atmosphere. There was an unspoken, yet tangible unity and commitment to a common cause. It made me wish that I could be a member of “Red Sox Nation”.
I think we who call ourselves Christians could learn some lessons from these diehard fans. Think about it, when was the last time that you made someone wish that they could be a member of “Jesus Nation”?
P.S. While in New England we also experienced the awesome hospitality of some of Red Sox Nations finest, the Giguere family.
Thank you Brian, Sarah, Kyle and Karleigh for opening your home to us and making us feel so welcome. You were a true expression of “Jesus Nation!”
