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I'm afraid concerned fans likewise mischaracterize Christianity. The Lord of Scripture commands his followers to do all things as if working directly for him (Col. 3:23-24). Not to mention, Christianity promotes responsibility and selfless concern for others. In sports terminology, that's called "team chemistry."

I'm certainly disappointed about the Royals' never-ending struggles. Just a couple nights ago I groaned with frustration when Sweeney tried to stretch a bloop single into a double and failed. But as I share his spiritual priorities, I understand time spent reading the Word is not time better spent pounding tequila to prove his competitive edge. With the Royals we're talking about a team whose general manager freely admits he works nonstop and puts the team ahead of his family. Look where that got us.

Collin Hansen is an associate editor of Christianity Today.

Copyright © 2006 Christianity Today. Click for reprint information.

More on immigration is available from our full coverage area.

Earlier Play Ball columns include:

Un Problema Grande, No? | What major league baseball reveals about the dangers of immigration. (Apr. 13, 2006)

WWJWD? | In the wake of UCLA's loss in Monday's NCAA championship game, I couldn't help but wonder: What would John Wooden do? (April 6, 2006)

There IS Crying in Basketball | If only we all had something so precious to weep about. By Collin Hansen (March 30, 2006)

Pirates vs. Braves | Reforming sports one city at a time. By Mark Galli (March 23, 2006)

Bjorn Again? | It's been a while since tennis legend Bjorn Borg was in the news. Too bad he's back because he's selling his Wimbledon trophies. By Mark Moring (March 16, 2006)

Steroids 'R' Us | It's not just Barry Bonds's heart that is desperately wicked. By Mark Galli (Mar. 9, 2006)

Heavy Medal | At the Olympics, if you don't medal, you certainly must be a loser. By Mark Moring (Feb. 23, 2006)

Opening Ceremony Blues | The Olympics is symbolic, but not of world peace. By Mark Galli (Feb. 16, 2006)

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April (Web-only) 2006, Vol. 50