The Bible is an impenetrable and mystifying book for many. Perhaps the greatest reason it is so difficult to understand is that the cultural contexts that shape its writings are so different from our 21st century American experience. It is a real challenge for us to place ourselves in their shoes, to see the world as they saw it.

                So, when something from our everyday experience surfaces that can help us see the world like one of Jesus' Jewish contemporaries, for example, I think it's worth some reflection.

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               I am writing on Wednesday afternoon, October 26th, and I am on pins and needles. In just a few hours, the Texas Rangers will play game 6 of the World Series, and they will have a chance tonight to win it all.

                I have been following the Rangers since I moved to Texas in 1981. Many of you, no doubt, have been following the club since it moved to Texas in 1972. The futility of the franchise, which extends even further back into the past when the team was known as the Washington Senators, has been well chronicled: zero American League Pennants; zero trips to the World Series; and until last year zero playoff series victories. Look up the definition of long-suffering in the dictionary, and you will find a picture of a life-long Rangers fan.

                But, all of that could change tonight. The reputation of the franchise, redeemed. The years and years of being a loyal fan, justified. Dedicated Rangers fans will be watching tonight on the edge of their seats, holding their breath when Albert Pujols steps into the batter's box, thrusting their fists into the air when a Rangers run is scored, agonizing or rejoicing over every out, every pitch. Could this finally be the year when our hopes are fulfilled?

                It has been said that baseball is like a religion. Look into the stands at the game tonight during a tense moment, and observe how many people have their hands clasped together, as if in prayer. Perhaps we can learn something about our religious tradition from this "religion."

                I honestly believe that the life-long Rangers fan - who dares to dream in spite of so many years of disappointment, who scours the roster each spring training in search of a Savior, who is on the brink of witnessing the unprecedented and the unthinkable - is a lot like many first century Jews we encounter in the New Testament scriptures.

                For them, it had been long, long time (centuries) since there had been any real victories. The Jews had been crushed, first by the Assyrians, then by the Babylonians, and most recently by the Romans. They longed for a Savior, whom they called the Messiah, to come and lead them to season of winning, but they were perennially disappointed. Still, there were some faithful Jews who continued to dare to have hope.

                If you want to begin to understand what the big deal is in the Bible about waiting for the Messiah, ask a true, die-hard Rangers fan what it would mean to them for the Rangers to win it all.

                If you want to understand Jesus' triumphant entrance into Jerusalem (Luke 19:29-40), picture a World Series victory parade through Arlington, with thousands of jubilant fans lining the streets.

                You may think sports are silly. You may be right. But, watch the 9th inning of the game tonight with a real Rangers fan, and it will give you new eyes through which to read the Bible. :)

                Grace and Peace, Pastor Andy Lewis