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Key Bible Verse: Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing (1 Thessalonians 5:11).
Bonus Reading: Ephesians 4:29-5:2

Teammate or foe, fan or friend—Cincinnati Red's first baseman Sean Casey believes in making every person feel welcome in his presence. His conversations with runners at first base are legendary.

Last season, after Pittsburgh's Al Martin singled, Casey said, "I've enjoyed watching you play. I hope everything works out for you. I couldn't imagine you wearing another uniform."

At the time, Martin was the subject of trade rumors—and he was finally traded to San Diego in February.

Casey kept talking before Martin interrupted. "Excuse me, but I think I'll steal second base," the Pirates outfielder said.

"If anyone can do it, you can," Casey responded.

After the game, a stunned Martin talked to reporters. "I've never had anyone talk to me like that [at first base]," he said. "The amazing thing about it is, he's sincere."

Casey had another discussion at first base with Chicago Cubs' Mark Grace, a perennial .300 hitter. Casey told Grace he admired him and asked for an autograph after the game. Grace said, "I should be getting yours. You can hit."

"You should know, you've been doing it for 14 years," Casey responded.

—Jeff Louderback in Sports Spectrum

Someone whose day I could brighten, is:

A pat on the back is only a few vertebrae removed from a kick in the pants, but is miles ahead in results.

—Ella Wheeler Wilcox (writer)

Adapted from: Sports Spectrum (4/00)

Copyright © 2001 by the author or Christianity Today, Inc./Men of Integrity magazine.
Click here for reprint information on Men of Integrity.

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Prayer for the Week

Jesus, enlarge my heart so that it reaches out to touch men for whom You died.

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