Dugout Devotions | Blessing of the Cleats
A Blessing for Another Season on the Diamond
With the start of a spring sports season, many families, mine included, will navigate Sunday morning church and sports commitments. Sunday morning youth sports were up for debate in and out of the church pre-COVID. Still, once the Sunday morning timeslot that the Church held was paused because it was not safe to gather in person, the door was opened for other activities and commitments (namely youth sports) to take center stage. And now, as we return to life as it was before COVID-19, this question has hit my household.
As a pastor, the last thing I want is for my children to look back and resent the Church because they were not able to do the kid things they wanted to do because of their dad’s calling. At the same time, I want my children to learn the faith they have been baptized into. I want them to know stories in the bible other than Noah’s Ark and Daniel in Lion’s Den. I want them to learn about and experience God’s amazing grace.
As the parent of a travel baseball player and as a travel baseball coach, I get it. Field space is limited, but kids enjoy playing sports, and there is a community to be made within these teams and leagues.
I want to share what I am dubbing “Dugout Devotions” for families navigating this same dilemma. I hope this will let you know that you are not navigating this alone and that you and your children can have a rich life of faith between the foul lines and in your church’s sanctuary.
First up, a blessing for the cleats.
As spring begins to bring new growth and possibilities, many players will put on new cleats, stuff their bags with new gear, and put on new uniforms. Just as we blessed their backpacks when they returned for a new school year, we again ask God for a blessing upon their new season—praying for safety, fun, and community.
Let’s pray.
Dear God,
We gather in your presence, thankful for the gift of community and the opportunity to participate in activities that enrich our lives. As our young athletes and participants lace up their cleats and prepare for the challenges and triumphs ahead, we ask for your blessings upon them.
May these cleats, gloves, bats, balls, and other items that bring us joy this spring be more than just “stuff;” may they become symbols of perseverance, teamwork, sportsmanship, and the joy you have for us. Carry our children safely through every practice and game, every jump, kick, hit, and other activities they do this spring, reminding them of the support and encouragement of their families, coaches, friends, and church family.
Bless the fields, courts, and playgrounds where they will have fun, turning them into sacred spaces where friendships are forged, skills are honed, and memories are made.
Grant strength to their bodies, clarity to their minds, and courage to their spirits as they strive for excellence and strive to glorify you in all they do.
May their efforts on the field or in other activities reflect the values instilled within them, reminding them always to play with integrity, compassion, and respect for themselves and others.
As we send them forth into this new season, may they know they are deeply loved, supported, and cherished by their church family and you, O God.
In your holy and precious name, we pray. Amen.