Fathers, sons, and baseball

A couple of weeks ago, I led a Men's Retreat, encouraging men to live their lives courageously, leading others to God, starting with their families.

This afternoon, under the hot Texas sun (and high humidity), I watched as a group of fathers come together to lead practice for their sons' baseball team. At the end of practice, they encouraged their kids, saying that while it was hot and lots of hard work, their training will help them during their games. Most of all, they encouraged the kids to go out and have fun.

As I watched, I thought of this Sunday's readings on discipline and being followers and disciples of Christ, particularly these verses:

"Endure your trials as "discipline". . . all discipline seems a cause not for joy but for pain, yet later it brings the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who are trained by it."

Great job, men! Way to be courageous and lead your sons with courage!