Bottom of the Ninth #65 - RE2PECT

"Love one another with brotherly affection. Outdo one another in showing honor."  Romans 12:10

The All Star Game was televised last night. What a collection of talent and stardom on one baseball field! Pitchers whose ERAs are as low as they go meet a lineup of batters that must be their worst nightmare. Highlight reel quality plays by the defense, look like childs play in the hands of the games best and most popular. The air seems crowded with the ghosts of great baseball players of the past in the midst of this gathering of current talent. All in all, an environment ripe with all the reasons we love this game, and as if that weren't enough, up to the plate steps number 2.

If you are a Yankees fan,  Derek Jeter is too good to be true. If you are a fan of not being a Yankees fan, you have to concede this one. Here is a man who has announced he is retiring from baseball after this year, who has added to the legend of this game – and he leads the whole thing off with a double down the right field line! You can't make this stuff up!!!

Prior to the first pitch, the Nike commercial/salute to Derek Jeter aired. Take a moment and have a look: 

Whether Jeter's typical tip of the cap as he enters the batter's box is part of his batting ritual, a greeting to the pitcher, or a salute to the game in general, that simple gesture of respect is an overarching symbol of what humanity needs most. We need to acknowledge one another and the good work being done by every individual, whether it is an opponent, someone with differing views, a teammate, a family member, or a stranger. A tip of the cap says, "I respect you“ right where you are.

"Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves." Philippians 2:3

Heavenly Father, help us to live a life of respect, to lift up one another, and to be pleasing to you. Amen.