Bad News...Good News

The following post appears on Pilgrim Scribblings as well. These are the kinds of scenarios I encounter on a regular basis as a sports chaplain. Lives are filled with exciting moments and discouraging disappointments. In the midst of them all we seek to point athletes to the greatest friend and Saviour they could ever have and know, Jesus Christ.

Here's that post:

Friday! Bad news...good news! Two friends go in two different directions.

Tuning in to The Fan 590 I learned that my friend John Gibbons, the manager of the Toronto Blue Jays, had been fired. I wasn't shocked but I was certainly disappointed. John is such a good guy. Down to earth, easy to like, affable, always accommodating. He was always so good to me. I'll miss him but we'll stay in touch.

Later in the day another friend, Zach Bogosian, was picked 3rd overall in the NHL draft by the Atlanta Thrashers. Zach's dream is to play in the NHL at 18 years of age. He will. We'll miss him here in Peterborough with the Petes. Zach and his parents became good friends during his sojourn in Peterborough. Now he's on a fast track to the NHL.

Two friends, two different directions. That's sports. That's life. That's what my life and ministry, Epistle Sports Ministries, is all about. Consoling athletes during the tough times. Congratulating them when things are going well. And...all the time...pointing them to Jesus.

God bless you John and Zach! Our friendship will continue no matter what!