MEMO from Coach Mac
January 2018
MEMO from Coach Mac
*The ‘MEMO’ is a monthly essay combining good teaching/coaching methods with references from the Bible and the greatest teacher/coach, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. If you do not wish to receive this ‘MEMO’, please reply sender.
Former Players, Family and Friends,
Meekness is a Virtue
When I was in high school and a young Christian, I struggled with what I perceived Christianity was and how it related to athletics. On one hand, I was supposed to be meek and mild, turn the other cheek, and be a peacemaker. On the other hand, I was supposed to crush people on the football field, hit the boards in basketball and as a pitcher, get batters off the plate. It was very confusing to me.
5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5
In the Greco-Roman era, people placed a high premium on meekness. Over time, the Bible was interpreted in such a way that meekness was used as gentleness or humility with overtones of weakness. You can see why I was confused, being an athlete, where weakness was a negative attribute and highly discouraged.
When Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount, he used the word ‘meek’, not as a sign of weakness, but as a sign of strength. Meekness does not identify the weak, but more precisely ‘the strong’ who have been placed in a position of weakness where they persevere without giving up. The patient and hopeful endurance of undesirable circumstances identifies the person as externally vulnerable and weak but inwardly resilient and strong. Meekness is a deliberate acceptance of undesirable circumstances that are wisely seen by the individual as only part of the larger picture. Typical human responses in such circumstances might include frustration, bitterness, anger or self-pity, but the one who is guided by God’s Holy Spirit accepts God’s ability to direct events.
In Matthew 11:29, Jesus tells us, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”
Jesus modeled meekness in everything he did while walking the earth. With gratitude, Jesus went to the cross and suffered great humiliation, beatings and the intense agony of crucifixion for a higher purpose. That purpose, of course, was God’s will that his followers receive forgiveness of their sins and salvation. That is strength brought under control.
Another aspect of meekness is the refusal to inflate our own self-estimation. The meek are often admired for exercising power for the benefit of others. The meek also engage others in decision-making and experience better results and deeper relationships. True meekness is one who has channeled his strengths into the service of God.
Another example of meekness is the wild stallion who has been brought under control by his master. The stallion has not lost his strength or power, but cedes control to his master.
In the sports world, the best teams are loaded with players who have a mindset of meekness. Coaches use terminology like, “take one for the team,” “composure,” “play within yourself,” and “there is no ‘I’ in team.” The larger picture is victory or, perhaps a championship.
Losing teams are chock-full of individuals who think highly of themselves, are selfish, stat mongers and they often lose their cool when things start to go south. Frustration, bitterness and anger abounds when things aren’t going well. Placing blame is their greatest attribute.
Winning teams are full of individuals who understand the big picture and are willing to take a lesser role in order to win. Deflecting praise is routine. Taking blame to protect teammates is commonplace. Buying into the system is a source of pride.
Self-discipline is also a component of meekness. All masters have rules, boundaries and expectations that those who are meek obey voluntarily and with pride. As Christians, we are expected to obey the commandments and follow the teachings of Jesus. Athletes have team rules and expectations as well. Good citizens of a country heed the laws agreed upon by the leaders. The meek practice good self-discipline not only when they are being watched, but also when they are alone.
Harry S. Truman said, “It is amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.”
Replace ‘teams’ with ‘corporations,’ ‘organizations,’ or even ‘families’ and the results are the same. Meekness is a virtue. Not to be confused with weakness. Strength brought under control, with the larger picture in mind is not only a virtue, in my humble opinion it is one of the greatest virtues.
Contrary to what is popularly believed and promoted in society today, Christianity is not for the weak, it is for the meek,
“for they shall inherit the earth.”
To Donate Online:
FCA/Coach Mac Financial Support
Activities:
*Coaches Bible Study – Camden County High School
*Volunteer at Camden Middle and St. Mary’s Middle School’s Baseball
*Volunteer at Charleton County Softball
*Pitching Camp – Ages 8-12 – Camden County
*Hitting Camp – Ages 8-12 – Camden County
*Pitching camp – Ages 8-12 – Charleton County
*Volunteer Coach at Savannah FCA All-Star Game
*FCA Pitching Camp – Savannah, GA
*Devotion/Speaker – Camden County High School Football Team
*Guest Adult Sunday School Teacher – Kingsland First Baptist Church
*Devotion/Speaker – Camden County High School Football Team
*Devotion/Speaker – Richmond Hill High School Football Team
*FCA Banquet featuring Major Leaguer, Jeff Francoeur
*Men’s Community Bible Study
Yours in Christ,
Joe ‘Coach Mac’ McFarland
540-435-6996
jmcfarland@fca.org or coachmac49@icloud.com
1601 Sandpiper Ct.
St. Marys GA 31558
MEMO from Coach Mac
*The ‘MEMO’ is a monthly essay combining good teaching/coaching methods with references from the Bible and the greatest teacher/coach, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. If you do not wish to receive this ‘MEMO’, please reply sender.
Former Players, Family and Friends,
Meekness is a Virtue
When I was in high school and a young Christian, I struggled with what I perceived Christianity was and how it related to athletics. On one hand, I was supposed to be meek and mild, turn the other cheek, and be a peacemaker. On the other hand, I was supposed to crush people on the football field, hit the boards in basketball and as a pitcher, get batters off the plate. It was very confusing to me.
5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5
In the Greco-Roman era, people placed a high premium on meekness. Over time, the Bible was interpreted in such a way that meekness was used as gentleness or humility with overtones of weakness. You can see why I was confused, being an athlete, where weakness was a negative attribute and highly discouraged.
When Jesus delivered his Sermon on the Mount, he used the word ‘meek’, not as a sign of weakness, but as a sign of strength. Meekness does not identify the weak, but more precisely ‘the strong’ who have been placed in a position of weakness where they persevere without giving up. The patient and hopeful endurance of undesirable circumstances identifies the person as externally vulnerable and weak but inwardly resilient and strong. Meekness is a deliberate acceptance of undesirable circumstances that are wisely seen by the individual as only part of the larger picture. Typical human responses in such circumstances might include frustration, bitterness, anger or self-pity, but the one who is guided by God’s Holy Spirit accepts God’s ability to direct events.
In Matthew 11:29, Jesus tells us, “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”
Jesus modeled meekness in everything he did while walking the earth. With gratitude, Jesus went to the cross and suffered great humiliation, beatings and the intense agony of crucifixion for a higher purpose. That purpose, of course, was God’s will that his followers receive forgiveness of their sins and salvation. That is strength brought under control.
Another aspect of meekness is the refusal to inflate our own self-estimation. The meek are often admired for exercising power for the benefit of others. The meek also engage others in decision-making and experience better results and deeper relationships. True meekness is one who has channeled his strengths into the service of God.
Another example of meekness is the wild stallion who has been brought under control by his master. The stallion has not lost his strength or power, but cedes control to his master.
In the sports world, the best teams are loaded with players who have a mindset of meekness. Coaches use terminology like, “take one for the team,” “composure,” “play within yourself,” and “there is no ‘I’ in team.” The larger picture is victory or, perhaps a championship.
Losing teams are chock-full of individuals who think highly of themselves, are selfish, stat mongers and they often lose their cool when things start to go south. Frustration, bitterness and anger abounds when things aren’t going well. Placing blame is their greatest attribute.
Winning teams are full of individuals who understand the big picture and are willing to take a lesser role in order to win. Deflecting praise is routine. Taking blame to protect teammates is commonplace. Buying into the system is a source of pride.
Self-discipline is also a component of meekness. All masters have rules, boundaries and expectations that those who are meek obey voluntarily and with pride. As Christians, we are expected to obey the commandments and follow the teachings of Jesus. Athletes have team rules and expectations as well. Good citizens of a country heed the laws agreed upon by the leaders. The meek practice good self-discipline not only when they are being watched, but also when they are alone.
Harry S. Truman said, “It is amazing what can be accomplished if no one cares who gets the credit.”
Replace ‘teams’ with ‘corporations,’ ‘organizations,’ or even ‘families’ and the results are the same. Meekness is a virtue. Not to be confused with weakness. Strength brought under control, with the larger picture in mind is not only a virtue, in my humble opinion it is one of the greatest virtues.
Contrary to what is popularly believed and promoted in society today, Christianity is not for the weak, it is for the meek,
“for they shall inherit the earth.”
To Donate Online:
FCA/Coach Mac Financial Support
Activities:
*Coaches Bible Study – Camden County High School
*Volunteer at Camden Middle and St. Mary’s Middle School’s Baseball
*Volunteer at Charleton County Softball
*Pitching Camp – Ages 8-12 – Camden County
*Hitting Camp – Ages 8-12 – Camden County
*Pitching camp – Ages 8-12 – Charleton County
*Volunteer Coach at Savannah FCA All-Star Game
*FCA Pitching Camp – Savannah, GA
*Devotion/Speaker – Camden County High School Football Team
*Guest Adult Sunday School Teacher – Kingsland First Baptist Church
*Devotion/Speaker – Camden County High School Football Team
*Devotion/Speaker – Richmond Hill High School Football Team
*FCA Banquet featuring Major Leaguer, Jeff Francoeur
*Men’s Community Bible Study
Yours in Christ,
Joe ‘Coach Mac’ McFarland
540-435-6996
jmcfarland@fca.org or coachmac49@icloud.com
1601 Sandpiper Ct.
St. Marys GA 31558
*The ‘MEMO’ is a monthly essay combining good teaching/coaching methods with references from the Bible and the greatest teacher/coach, Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. If you do not wish to receive this ‘MEMO’, please reply sender.
Former Players, Family and Friends,
The Ride Home
PITCHERS AND CATCHERS REPORT! For a baseball fan, there are no sweeter words. It signifies the start of baseball season, but it also lets you know that spring is right around the corner.
It’s also that time of year when Little League sign-ups are occurring and dads and sons break out the gloves and have a catch. Moms and dads will be contemplating putting on the team hat and volunteering to be a coach.
The number one reason that young people quit playing a sport is because it is not fun. If you break it down further, there are two main factors; one is that they are not very good at the sport and, two is they don’t like the conversations/arguments that occur after a game with coach/player, coach/parent, or parent/player. I know something about all three of these combinations, as I have been a player, parent and coach.
My father was a good high school baseball and basketball player. He then served in the Army Air Corps as a Sergeant in WWII. He was a great man who I loved and respected, but I did not like him. You see Easy Ed McFarland was not easy on his kids when it came to sports. I won’t speak for my sister or brother, but for me, the post-game talks almost always escalated into arguments and on occasion fights.
Years later, he apologized for being so tough on me and explained that he wanted me to be tough and accomplish more than he did. I also apologized for being bull-headed and angry. We did become great friends for his last 25 years, and yes, I did pretty well for myself, in part from his methods.
Colossians 3:21 says Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so they won’t become discouraged.
As a parent, I was determined to find a way to have post-game talks with my kids that were both informative and encouraging. My wife, Deb and I worked together to keep things in the proper perspective. We weren’t perfect, that’s for sure. Some things were non-negotiable with our kids, like respecting coaches, officials and other players. Of course, ‘showing your butt’ on the field and ‘losing it’ was not tolerated as well.
In the car on the ride home, after a cooling off period, the first questions would be “What did you do well today?” Sometimes you have to dig deep to find something. Hustle, effort, and being a good teammate are examples of conversation starters. Young players tend to be results oriented, so after a loss or 0-4 day at the plate, they only look at the bad things. This is where a parent/coach can encourage instead of demean or berate.
“Okay, you were 0-4. You also had an RBI, and the last time I looked, runs win games. You struck-out twice, but one of the strikeouts took 10 pitches which was a great at-bat. You also played good defense today.”
Taking this approach not only teaches the game, but also is encouraging. The second part of the post-game is “what do you need to work on?” They now have to own their performance and start to think about the process instead of results. In the example we used above, the answer may be more batting practice, hitting the ball where it’s pitched or a better 2-strike approach.
The final part of the post-game talk should center around developing a plan, once again developing process thinking instead of results thinking.
Of course, all post-game talks should exclude the following: placing blame on other players, coaches or officials, and making excuses for poor play.
The examples mentioned were tailored around baseball but will work for other sports and activities as well.
Finally, young people have to understand that time invested in a sport or activity will show up in competition. You have heard the saying about how you get to Carnegie Hall…practice, practice, practice. That also applies to Yankee Stadium, Soldier Field, Madison Square Garden or the Olympics.
The car used to be a place of conversation, games, and contests. Instead of video games, movies and head phones, talk to your kids. Teach them and encourage them.
Ephesians 4:29 says No rotten talk should come from your mouth, but only what is good for the building up of someone in need, in order to give grace to those who hear.
Upcoming Activities:
*Coaches Bible Study
*Dinner speech at Frederica Academy
*Volunteer Coach at Camden County High School Baseball
*Coaching clinics – SE Georgia Little League Coaches
*Pitching and Hitting camps in February and March
*FCA Golf Tournament, February 18th
*Dinner and Speech – Northern Illinois University Baseball (1996 Team Reunion)
*FCA Outing to FSU/UF baseball game in Jacksonville, March 28th
*Mentoring coaches
Donate Online:
FCA/Coach Mac Financial Support
God’s blessings to you and your families! Thank you to those of you who have contributed to this ministry by donation and/or prayer!!!
Yours in Christ,
Joe ‘Coach Mac’ McFarland
jmcfarland@fca.org or coachmac49@icloud.com
Former Players, Family and Friends,
The Ride Home
PITCHERS AND CATCHERS REPORT! For a baseball fan, there are no sweeter words. It signifies the start of baseball season, but it also lets you know that spring is right around the corner.
It’s also that time of year when Little League sign-ups are occurring and dads and sons break out the gloves and have a catch. Moms and dads will be contemplating putting on the team hat and volunteering to be a coach.
The number one reason that young people quit playing a sport is because it is not fun. If you break it down further, there are two main factors; one is that they are not very good at the sport and, two is they don’t like the conversations/arguments that occur after a game with coach/player, coach/parent, or parent/player. I know something about all three of these combinations, as I have been a player, parent and coach.
My father was a good high school baseball and basketball player. He then served in the Army Air Corps as a Sergeant in WWII. He was a great man who I loved and respected, but I did not like him. You see Easy Ed McFarland was not easy on his kids when it came to sports. I won’t speak for my sister or brother, but for me, the post-game talks almost always escalated into arguments and on occasion fights.
Years later, he apologized for being so tough on me and explained that he wanted me to be tough and accomplish more than he did. I also apologized for being bull-headed and angry. We did become great friends for his last 25 years, and yes, I did pretty well for myself, in part from his methods.
Colossians 3:21 says Fathers, do not exasperate your children, so they won’t become discouraged.
As a parent, I was determined to find a way to have post-game talks with my kids that were both informative and encouraging. My wife, Deb and I worked together to keep things in the proper perspective. We weren’t perfect, that’s for sure. Some things were non-negotiable with our kids, like respecting coaches, officials and other players. Of course, ‘showing your butt’ on the field and ‘losing it’ was not tolerated as well.
In the car on the ride home, after a cooling off period, the first questions would be “What did you do well today?” Sometimes you have to dig deep to find something. Hustle, effort, and being a good teammate are examples of conversation starters. Young players tend to be results oriented, so after a loss or 0-4 day at the plate, they only look at the bad things. This is where a parent/coach can encourage instead of demean or berate.
“Okay, you were 0-4. You also had an RBI, and the last time I looked, runs win games. You struck-out twice, but one of the strikeouts took 10 pitches which was a great at-bat. You also played good defense today.”
Taking this approach not only teaches the game, but also is encouraging. The second part of the post-game is “what do you need to work on?” They now have to own their performance and start to think about the process instead of results. In the example we used above, the answer may be more batting practice, hitting the ball where it’s pitched or a better 2-strike approach.
The final part of the post-game talk should center around developing a plan, once again developing process thinking instead of results thinking.
Of course, all post-game talks should exclude the following: placing blame on other players, coaches or officials, and making excuses for poor play.
The examples mentioned were tailored around baseball but will work for other sports and activities as well.
Finally, young people have to understand that time invested in a sport or activity will show up in competition. You have heard the saying about how you get to Carnegie Hall…practice, practice, practice. That also applies to Yankee Stadium, Soldier Field, Madison Square Garden or the Olympics.
The car used to be a place of conversation, games, and contests. Instead of video games, movies and head phones, talk to your kids. Teach them and encourage them.
Ephesians 4:29 says No rotten talk should come from your mouth, but only what is good for the building up of someone in need, in order to give grace to those who hear.
Upcoming Activities:
*Coaches Bible Study
*Dinner speech at Frederica Academy
*Volunteer Coach at Camden County High School Baseball
*Coaching clinics – SE Georgia Little League Coaches
*Pitching and Hitting camps in February and March
*FCA Golf Tournament, February 18th
*Dinner and Speech – Northern Illinois University Baseball (1996 Team Reunion)
*FCA Outing to FSU/UF baseball game in Jacksonville, March 28th
*Mentoring coaches
Donate Online:
FCA/Coach Mac Financial Support
God’s blessings to you and your families! Thank you to those of you who have contributed to this ministry by donation and/or prayer!!!
Yours in Christ,
Joe ‘Coach Mac’ McFarland
jmcfarland@fca.org or coachmac49@icloud.com