Yesterday, I profiled the life of Billy Sunday, a baseball player turned evangelist. Not only did he lead many to Christ, he had a hand in the chain of witnesses who ultimately led Billy Graham to Christ. His decision to shift from the base paths to God’s path made an impact for sure.
But that was in the early 1900’s. Today, let’s look at the career of another baseball player who chose to stay with the game, but continues to do God’s will and serves as a great example of integrity for others.
Justin Masterson was born in Jamaica where his father was a seminary dean. He grew up mostly in Ohio where the elder Masterson was a pastor. He played ball at Bethel College in Elkhart, Indiana for two years before transferring to San Diego State.
As a minor leaguer, Masterson earned the nickname “the Shepherd” because he was well-known for paying attention to homesick Latin American players. Of that, he says “it blossomed into some fun relationships and the opportunity to hang out with them and try to get them to chapel or talk to them about God.”
Photo Credit: Jenifer Cabrera via CreationSwap
He carries that shepherding nature to this day in the big leagues. For instance, when the Indians were in Boston, teammate Jack Hannahan’s wife was going into premature labor in Cleveland. With no commercial flights available, Hannahan was looking at a $35,000 private jet ride home. The cost was 7% of Hannahan’s annual salary and with free agency plus an uncertain future looming; it was unlikely he’d make it home in time. Masterson gathered his teammates and collectively pulled together enough to pay for the ticket. Hannahan arrived at the hospital fifteen minutes before his wife gave birth.
Another one-time teammate, Matt LaPorta once said of Masterson is “as strong of a person for Jesus as you can get, a great guy who really cares for others. We often read Scripture or a book at our homes, and then we will come to the ball park and discuss it.”
Masterson’s story and character are not unique, but they are underreported. In an era where we are witness to many athletes and celebrities who are enveloped in the temptations and misfortunes that often accompany fame, Masterson’s devotion is clearly to God before baseball or any other earthly pursuit. It clearly guides his actions and shines as a positive influence on his teammates, fans and children who see him as a role model. Of which, they would be hard pressed to find one more fitting.
Resources Possibly Used for This Post (or you may otherwise enjoy)…