A couple of weeks ago I was privileged to visit South Korea.
While there, the family I was staying with invited me to attend a professional
baseball game with their son. They told me it was vastly different than our
American baseball.
Being a huge baseball fan, it wasn’t hard to convince me to
go. Just before we left for the ballpark, my new Korean friend asked me to wear
his prized Twins jersey. Turns out a tall American - at a Korean baseball park -
wearing a Twins jersey creates quite a stir. I think that was my friend’s
intent.
We showed up to the stadium and found our seats. And, I have
to say I was extremely surprised. Korean baseball fans love their baseball. The
Koreans have done an amazing job of creating a crazy baseball culture for the
fans that truly turns them into participants. These fans sang, cheered,
clapped, and danced for their team. It was like a mix between American World
Series baseball and World Cup Soccer. Don’t believe me – check out the video
below.
“Participation” is such an important key in our walk with
Christ. Jesus never called us as followers to sit on the sideline and simply
watch church happen. We are called to go – to make disciples – to teach – to
serve – to give – to care – to impact the world. The challenge for us as leaders
in the church is to create an atmosphere of participation. An atmosphere that
encourages imperfect people to get involved, to allow God to stretch and use
them for His glory.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I still love American baseball. I
just have a new appreciation for how the Korean baseball fans participate in
the game. If you ever get a chance to
visit South Korea (which I highly recommend) I suggest you catch a baseball
game. It’s a great cultural experience!
Missional
– The church buzz word of the last five years. It’s what we’re supposed
to be. It’s what we’re supposed to do, but understanding that, well…
there seems to be some “Tension-al.”
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