Yesterday, I attended the Richardson family reunion here in Sumter. A great thrill for me was to visit for a few moments with my cousin, Bobby Richardson, and to get a picture taken with him. Being around him was a total pleasure.
Bobby played for the New York Yankees from 1955-1966. Second base was his position. He was a seven time All Star and a five time Gold Glove Winner. He and the Yankees appeared in the World Series seven times during his career, and they won three of them. Bobby had an impressive, exciting career as a pro ball player.
When I look at him, I marvel at these two things:
1). Bobby has stayed humble. We all know he has done some amazing things in his life that most people never get to be a part of. And yet he treats people with kindness and respect. He does not act high and mighty. He does not act like he's too important to interact with others. Bobby smiles, looks people in the eye, and shows a genuine interest in them.
2). Bobby has used his opportunities to tell others about The Lord. Being a spokesman for the Christian faith is a responsibility that he takes seriously. He is always quick to give credit to his Lord and Savior. In his book "Impact Player", he states the following: "If my life is a testament to anything, it is to God's mercy and grace. I have been blessed far beyond what I deserve." When he autographs copies of his book, he adds in a Bible verse. It's Romans 1:16, which reads "I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ..." Always a witness. That's Bobby.
It seems to me that all of us would do well to follow his example. And the good news is we don't have to be pro ball players to do it. Regardless of who we are, what we accomplish, and where we live, if we keep the right perspective of ourselves and put the spotlight on God, we can be spiritual champions who make an eternal impact.
Stay humble. Tell others about The Lord. That's the Bobby Richardson Way. And that's the kind of life that God blesses.
No comments:
Post a Comment