Back to the Basics

This year’s World Series is right around the corner, and one of my favorite baseball-isms is “ABC baseball.” This term (as explained to me by my husband years back when he indoctrinated me into the world of baseball) refers to mastering the simple fundamentals of the game that lead to big results. Rather than relying on home runs, an “ABC baseball” team focuses on the basics: getting on base, running the bases well, and executing the little things players learn in Little League. Home runs may be more exciting, but a team that consistently masters the fundamentals will win more games.

The same is true in our homes. In a world fueled by comparison, it’s easy to focus on looking like a great family–while neglecting the basics of loving each other well. Of course, it’s great to show up to the game and cheer loudly. But what does your speech sound like on the car ride home when no one else is listening? How do you respond when you’re frustrated, tired, or inconvenienced? The moments that shape our families most aren’t always the big, visible ones. Often, they’re the small, everyday interactions no one else sees.

Galatians 5 gives us a picture of the fundamentals: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities might not earn us much recognition or make for impressive social media posts, but they are the building blocks of a life that reflects Jesus. So, as we invest in our families, let’s not get so caught up in hitting home runs that we forget to practice the basics. Let’s pursue the kind of love that shows up in our everyday words, attitudes, and actions.