The reliever

The month of October marks one my husband's favorite times of the year... baseball championship games!If you haven't read my "Type A Christian" books, my husband is a retired baseball coach who accepted his calling to preach and is now serving as our church pastor. I spent sixteen years on the ball field as a coach's wife, which doesn't include watching my husband pitch during his final year in college as we began dating.There is one time during a baseball game that is always emotional to watch — changing of the pitcher. When the pitcher starts to tire, the coach calls time and begins his slow walk to the mound as everyone knows it is time for a change. But have you ever noticed the different body languages of the starting pitcher versus the reliever?It's unfortunate the pitcher who has given his all for many innings hangs his head in disappointment as he is unable to finish what he started. While at the same time, there is another player racing out of the bullpen with his head held high and ready to play. The crowd acknowledges the work of the starter with a standing ovation while cheering for the oncoming reliever.Have you ever felt a similar disappointment and unable to be comforted by those surrounding you with encouragement? The feeling of defeat and failure may feel overwhelming specifically because there is no relief in sight! But the Bible reassures us that we not only have a reliever, but we have the promise of a Helper!Jesus said, "Nevertheless I tell you the truth. It is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I depart, I will send Him to you" (John 16:7).First, this means that just like the coach who calls his starting pitcher back to the dug-out, God called His Son home, not for punishment but for our benefit. Second, the coach recognizes that his player is struggling and in need of a reliever, similar to God who recognizes our need for a Helper to overcome various obstacles.I pray that you are blessed with the gift of the Holy Spirit and learn to embrace the wisdom, discipline, and encouragement that the Holy Spirit provides. The next time you watch a baseball game, remember the defeated pitcher is usually the first player to embrace his reliever after the game!There is a great lesson in thanking God who sent us our very own Redeemer and Reliever — even before we realized our need for help. And, for all of the disappointments, obstacles, and struggles caused by our main adversary, Satan, well, God has a very special Closer coming on a white horse in the 9th inning to strike down our opponent forever (Revelation 19-20)!Now hold your head up, and let's play this game called life because in the end, we will claim victory through Jesus Christ!Autumn Hoover is a praise team member and youth group leader at Promise Ministries Church in Kingsport.