Typically perseverance in relation to sports is connected to playing until the final whistle, practicing long after others have hit the showers, or playing through pain. What about perseverance in competing for the great goal as an example to teammates, coaches, officials, and opponents?
Mickey Mantle is in the argument as a potential GOAT. He is also known for living hard. One of Mantle’s Yankee teammates was 8-time All Star, Bobby Richardson. Richardson was a devout Christian who lockered right next to Mantle. Mantle would jokingly refer to Richardson as a milk drinker. However, Richardson would compassionately share about Jesus with his friend and teammate.
For Mickey, it took decades for Bobby’s witness to sink in.
Many years later, when Mickey knew he was losing his fight with cancer he called Bobby and asked him to pray with him over the phone. A few days before Mickey Mantle entered eternity, he told Bobby that he had placed his faith in Christ to save him.
Who can you consistently and lovingly introduce to Jesus? For Mickey, it took decades for Bobby’s witness to sink in. Persevere in being Jesus to those around you – it may lead to the greatest victory – for eternity!
Thank you for reading
Steve Quatro
(Thank you to Rod Handley of Character Counts for his collaborative work on this.)
