Greater Than a Perfect Game

Growing Daily

Greater Than a Perfect Game

Sixteen years ago today, Armando Galarraga stood on the doorstep of baseball history.  

He was one out away from pitching a perfect game — retiring every batter without allowing a hit, walk, or error.  He would join an elite group of only 20 other pitchers who had accomplished that feat in more than a century.

The batter hit a routine ground ball.  The fielders executed it perfectly.  The throw clearly beat the runner to the base — but the umpire called him... safe.

In an instant, perfection vanished.

Players and fans were outraged.  Commentators erupted after replays showed the runner was out.  But Galarraga’s response was remarkable.  Instead of bitterness, he showed grace.  Instead of attacking the umpire afterward, he said simply, “Nobody’s perfect.” 

His humble response has become more memorable than the near-perfect game itself.

We often assume our greatest legacy will come through achievement and recognition.  But Scripture points us in another direction.  God is more interested in who we become than our earthly accomplishments.

Romans 5:3-4 says, “We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance.  And endurance develops strength of character.”

Galarraga lost a place in the record books but gained something better: a lasting reputation for humility and composure.

Sometimes God allows a lesser glory to slip away so a greater one can emerge.  You may not always receive the recognition you deserve.  But if disappointment produces grace in you, that’s the real victory.


- Ron Reid