A Message from the Pew
by Joe Marateo
So as I walked onto the field at Yankee Stadium aware of the magnitude of the game, stood on the sideline for the National Anthem in front of thousands of fans, I silently thanked Jesus for allowing me to work this game. Then a thought crossed my mind, If Jesus was a professional baseball umpire, would He be a good one?
An umpire’s job is to call balls and strikes, decide fair or foul and enforce the rules impartially. Jesus would excel in this because He teaches honesty and right judgment: “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.” (John 7:24). Additionally as an umpire, Jesus wouldn’t be swayed by home crowd pressure, superstar players, or angry managers. His calls would always be just and rooted in truth. “The best umpired game is the game in which the fans cannot recall the umpires who worked it.” Bill Klem. Like Jesus, He would let the game not Himself be the focus.
Yankee Stadium fans can be loud, critical, and sometimes downright hostile toward umpires. Jesus’ teachings about love, patience, and forgiveness would shape His response. “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34). Instead of yelling back at angry fans, He would model calmness. He might quietly pray for them or simply offer a gentle nod, understanding their passion for the game.
Just as Jesus uplifted His disciples, He would uplift His umpire crew, guiding younger umpires with humility and encouragement. “Whoever wants to be great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 20:26). He would teach that being an umpire isn’t about power, it's about serving the game, the players, and the integrity of baseball.
Umpires face intense moments such as close plays at the plate, extra innings, or playoff games. Jesus’ peace would set Him apart. “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Not as the world gives do I give to you.” (John 14:27). In the bottom of the ninth, bases loaded, full count, He would call the pitch with perfect composure because integrity matters more than crowd approval.
Finally, Jesus would use His role to teach life lessons about patience, humility and forgiveness. He might remind players and fans of this. If Jesus were an umpire, He would embody the perfect combination of fairness, patience, and servant leadership. He would not only call a great game but also turn the ballpark into a Cathedral where His peace and love would be felt even if the fans never realized it.
I believe Jesus would be a Great Umpire who would be enshrined in Cooperstown. He never makes mistakes because of His wisdom, fairness, and His ability to handle people with patience and grace.
Thinking about this gave me the confidence to continue on the field at Yankee Stadium and do my job with focus and great joy. Even on the biggest stage of my life, I knew I could serve the game and Him with integrity and humility.
My Peace be with you!
Joe Marateo