I wasn’t much of a baseball fan until the Nationals arrived in Washington. They just drew me in. Their youth and exuberance were contagious. The broadcasters helped me learn the game and appreciate the stories of individual players. Before I knew it, they were family and my emotions rolled with the fortunes of the team and players. Time passed and as experience and skill at all positions grew, so did my enthusiam. The owners hired a GM who really makes decisions. I expect there have been some difficult moments behind the scenes. And now they have a Manager who has seen it all. I love it. Natitude overflows at very position. Who wouldn’t want part of that?

Opening Day coincides with Eastertime this year. Jesus lives. What does that really mean? The Gospels become the turning point of the history of creation in its relationship with the Creator. Peter, John, and Paul begin explaining it all through their letters. Down through time others have added their voices: Augustine, Benedict, and Gregory; Anselm, Aelred, Bernard, and Thomas. Francis and Clare, Hildegard, Julian, Theresa, and John; Luther, Cranmer, and Calvin; and on and on. The Scripture and the masters addressing life at its best and life at its worst. It continues today.

We celebrate Easter and our Risen Lord. We study Scripture and the lives of the saints. We gather together in community as part of the New Kingdom. Opening Day is every day and the beginning of the new season. We have our Owner. We have our managers and teachers. We have our Natitude. It’s time to play ball. Who wouldn’t want part of that?