Reflection for December 24
Not many folks know of Edward “Big Ed” Stevens and honestly, I did not know of him until a few years back when a good friend wrote an essay about him. But today’s gospel passage brought me back to that essay and my own struggles accepting my place in life, a place not of fame or notoriety, but rather where God wanted me to be. Those struggles were hard enough, but even more difficult when I came to realize that our children’s paths also follow God’s plan. I am certainly not disappointed in the paths our children are on; indeed, the pride and joy they bring to us grows each day. It’s just that I thought I’d have more say in deciding their paths.
Zechariah may have felt this way when he came to realize that his son John was not the Savior of the World, but rather Christ’s “advance man,” whose job was to let the world know Christ was coming and how to prepare. Zechariah accepted his son’s role, and his own role, with grace and humility because he knew it was God’s plan.
Big Ed Stevens was also placed on a path within the history of racial justice. He was the starting first baseman for the 1946 Brooklyn Dodgers and expected to continue in that position in 1947 until Jackie Robinson was called up and took his spot. Big Ed didn’t blame Robinson and, indeed, became his friend. He accepted God’s path with grace and humility though undoubtedly was frustrated and sad. I will try to do better to find grace and humility in my own acceptance of my role in life. Merry Christmas and Peace to All.
Dave Kenna