As I drove home, I tried to think of wise words to pass along to my team of nine-year-olds as they enter the playoffs.

The words mirror baseball, but fuel life.

First Base – Have fun.  Joy is the fuel for all that follows.

Second Base – Good sportsmanship.  The Golden Rule in action, who knew that Jesus was a closer?  (Sure was, He saves.  Ha!)

Third Base – Do your best.  Try your hardest and you will go a long way.

Home – It’s about the team.  Cheer on others.  They need encouragement, as much as you.

Round those the bases and the final score won’t matter.  You will have already won.  Now, play ball!