Video of the Day: Trailer from the 2014 film “Mercy Rule”
Bible Verse of the Day:
Then he called the crowd to him along with his disciples and said: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. 35 For whoever wants to save their life[b] will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me and for the gospel will save it. 36 What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? 37 Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul? – Mark 8:34-37
Biblical Connection:
The Mercy Rule in the context of baseball refers to ending a game early when one team is up by more than 10 runs after the 4th innings. During travel ball tournaments, where certain teams far outclass others, there is a 20-run rule after 3 completed innings. The movie Mercy Rule uses baseball and family trials to teach life’s lessons on mercy, patience, sacrifice, legacy and trusting God. While a player may shine in a game, all members win and lose as a team.
Jon Mark recounts a memorable conversation that Jesus had with his disciples. Rather than joining a baseball team, Jesus is asking 12 men to join a spiritual team. This concept is hard to grasp for many as it’s directly opposed to what society teaches. Jesus’ 3 expectations include denying yourself, taking up the cause of the great commission, Acts 1:8 and following Jesus as the Lord of your life. Unfortunately, many Christians put God on hold, unable to resist temporary treasures.
Closing Song:
When your team is getting crushed, the Mercy Rule exists to end the pain of defeat. However, sometimes Christians can learn more from losing than winning. If there is no I in team, each individual member of a losing team should humbly reflect upon what they could have done better. When Christian’s learn from past defeats, they’ll improve their chances to avoid making the same mistake in the future.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 