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)
