Hanging with some Padres in San Francisco

Here are a few pics from my trip to San Francisco (Sept 11-14) to meet up with some of the San Diego Padres players for a little hang time before and after their games with the Giants.

On Monday night after their game, I met with six players in one of the their hotel rooms for Bible study and prayer. These dudes are serious about tracking with Jesus as they play Major League Baseball. They understand that God may not help them win (terrible theology), but that He's with them through every circumstance and trial, giving them the opportunity to grow and be refined in the process. Two of the other nights there was powerful prayer and time in God's Word with a couple of the players.

During my time as chaplain for the Tacoma Rainiers (AAA Seattle Mariners) I've had the opportunity to see the lives of professional baseball players up close. With less than 3% of minor league players making it to the Major Leagues for 2 years or more, the pressure and competition to "make it" is almost incomprehensible. These guys are mentally tough!

I was blessed to be with these guys for a couple days to sharpen and be sharpened by athletes who are serious about competing their guts out and living wholeheartedly for Jesus at the same time.