God's Coaching #18

God's Coaching #18

Most kids learn about Jackie Robinson in school. They know that Jackie was the first African American to sign a major league contract and that he suffered threats and racial taunts. But few people know the story of Willie O’Ree.

Eleven years after Jackie broke the color barrier in baseball, Willie became the first African American to play in the National Hockey League. On this day in 1958, Willie laced up his skates and took the ice for the Boston Bruins in a game against Montreal.

Boston had suffered a number of injuries to its team so they called up Willie from the Quebec Aces to play left wing. Willie, who was known for his fast skating, did his job well filling in for the Bruins. Later, Willie admitted that some fans and opposing players called him names, but he said his Boston teammates always supported him.

What’s the Score?

There wasn’t a lot of fanfare when Willie broke the color barrier in hockey. He was the best player in the Boston farm system, so he got called up to do a job. Interestingly, Willie only had one eye, but he never complained or mentioned it to anybody. Even Boston coach Milt Schmidt didn’t know Willie was partially blind.

Willie was a great example that race and physical limitations shouldn’t determine how a person is viewed. When Jesus looks at all of us, he sees every part of us, including our skin color, as part of his perfect creation. When God’s Son came to earth and died on a cross, he shed his blood for all people. Romans 10:12 tells us, “Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him.” Everyone has an equal opportunity to pray and accept Jesus as Savior. He generously gives his love and grace to all people—and we should do the same.

On the Ball

Have you ever seen another child be put down for the color of his or her skin or a physical limitation? Maybe it’s even happened to you. Pray and thank God that he sees all of us as his perfect creation. Then try to be a friend to all kinds of people.

Coach’s Comment

Jew and Gentile are the same in this respect. They have the same Lord, who gives generously to all who call on him. Romans 10:12