Today was another long day at the academy. In the morning, the boys from the IBP academy had games against a rival academy on the island. Our boys were able to watch a game and again were amazed at their athletic ability, but today they really saw the joy and excitement the Dominican players had while they played. Their energy level was extremely high, they talked, cheered and taunted in a fun joking matter the entire time.
At devotionals, our boys discussed what they have learned so far about the Dominican players and what is different than their own perspectives. A lot of the boys talked about how baseball is all the Dominicans have and focus on. In a lot of ways we have it so much easier because we have school, our families and a country full of opportunities available to us. They also discussed how we have a strong work ethic like the Dominicans, but tend to lose focus because there are so many options in the US and sometimes it’s easy to get distracted. Coach Lagatta was able to give them a message around renewing their mind and thoughts daily. Saying no to the things of the world and yes to the things of Christ. He told them you will never be sorry if you focus on the things of the Lord.
My favorite thing about today was a missionary from Africa that is staying at our hotel heard about our boys and decided to join our devotional on the beach. It was kind of awkward initially because no one knew who she was, but she introduced herself and asked if she could stay. After devotions, many of the boys took time out of their last 60 minutes before lights out to go and talk to her and introduce themselves. This is just one of many examples of the boys being open to the Holy Spirit’s leading and having conversations with anyone God brings in their path!
At devotionals, our boys discussed what they have learned so far about the Dominican players and what is different than their own perspectives. A lot of the boys talked about how baseball is all the Dominicans have and focus on. In a lot of ways we have it so much easier because we have school, our families and a country full of opportunities available to us. They also discussed how we have a strong work ethic like the Dominicans, but tend to lose focus because there are so many options in the US and sometimes it’s easy to get distracted. Coach Lagatta was able to give them a message around renewing their mind and thoughts daily. Saying no to the things of the world and yes to the things of Christ. He told them you will never be sorry if you focus on the things of the Lord.
My favorite thing about today was a missionary from Africa that is staying at our hotel heard about our boys and decided to join our devotional on the beach. It was kind of awkward initially because no one knew who she was, but she introduced herself and asked if she could stay. After devotions, many of the boys took time out of their last 60 minutes before lights out to go and talk to her and introduce themselves. This is just one of many examples of the boys being open to the Holy Spirit’s leading and having conversations with anyone God brings in their path!
Keep going Team DR Baseball!! Proud of all of you!