Here's a good look at the increasing involvement of outspoken Christian athletes in the public square from a secular publication, the online edition of the Austin American Statesman. The story begins with an example from a local minor league ballplayer and then expands.An hour before the Round Rock Express takes the field, hundreds of people gather outside Dell Diamond to hear from star outfielder Luke Scott. A hot sun bears down, but Scott appears cool and polished in crisp white baseball pants and a blue practice jersey.
"I'm here today because I'm not ashamed," Scott begins, his voice a faint contrast to his muscular frame. The crowd presses closer to hear him. He briefly recounts a past marked by drinking and partying before stating with force, "I gave my life to God on June 9, 2001."
The crowd erupts, clapping and exclaiming, "Praise God!"
Scott, who was speaking at the team's first pre-game Faith Night earlier this month, sees his position as "a good stage to preach the good word and talk about the Lord." He is by no means unique in his evangelism. In recent years, more athletes have been using their celebrity status and media access to witness for Christ.
These players are doing more than pointing heavenward after hitting a home run or kneeling in the end zone to pray after a touchdown. They are modifying their uniforms, crediting Jesus in post-game interviews and talking candidly about the role God plays in their lives and careers.
And thanks to the increased visibility of evangelical Christians, who helped President Bush win re-election in 2004, Christian athletes are encountering a more receptive audience in the press box and beyond..
