(this is a picture of issac and jonah 1 year ago.  we sent them atlanta braves hats while they were still in ethiopia)

We began the process of adopting two boys from Ethiopia nearly 14 months ago. Because my two older boys love baseball and spend just about every day of their spring and summer on a baseball diamond, I was consistently asked, “Are your new sons going to play baseball?”

For some, this was just a question to communicate their excitement about our family’s adoption. But for others, there was a suspicion that maybe Isaac and Jonah, would be treated differently.  My response was always, ” They are my sons aren’t they? Then they’ll play baseball.”

Neither, Isaac or Jonah, have ever touched the dirt of a baseball diamond. And yet, they already love the game. Why? Because I love the game!  Isaac already states emphatically that Chipper Jones is his favorite baseball player. (He stares up at a Chipper Jones fathead each night as he goes to sleep!) He even knows a few things about Hammering Hank Aaron. His number this season will be #44 just like his older brothers.

Baseball is apart of my life. It’s a staple in my family. Isaac and Jonah really are my sons. Therefore, they really will be baseball freaks. (And just like their great granddad taught me to do they will always cheer for America’s team.) And it goes much deeper than even this.

My pastor and mentor, David Prince, is also known for his love for baseball. In a recent article for Baptist Press, he explains how baseball provides the perfect context for fathers to teach their sons the mystery of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Understanding this concept, I cannot help but be excited about spring and what it will mean for all four of my sons.

My friend Pastor Jason Thompson has also written a post explaining why baseball helps him connect with his sons who were just adopted.