During
the past 135 years of Major League Baseball, only 20 pitchers have thrown a
perfect game. On June 2, 2010, Armando Galarraga of the Detroit Tigers would
have been number 21 but an umpire’s mistake denied him what every pitcher
dreams of. The video replay showed the truth. Even though the umpire later
acknowledged his error and apologized to Galarraga, the call made on the field
could not be changed.
Through
it all, Galarraga remained calm, expressed sympathy for the umpire, and never
criticized him. Armando’s refusal to retaliate amazed fans, players, and
sportswriters alike.
If we
insist on fair treatment for ourselves, we can become angry and frustrated. But
when we embrace the Bible’s wisdom, we will seek the welfare of others.
Proverbs calls us “to perceive the words of understanding, to receive the
instruction of wisdom, justice, judgment, and equity” (1:2-3). Oswald Chambers
said of our personal dealings with others, “Never look for justice, but never
cease to give it; and never allow anything you meet with to sour your
relationship to men through Jesus Christ.”
When we
experience unfairness, it is our privilege and responsibility as followers of
Christ to respond with honesty and integrity, doing what is right, just, and
fair.
Life is
not fair, but God is always faithful. (RBC)
