“The Garden”

Day 9 – single digits!

Abby, age 4, discussing the thrill of seeing the N.L. leader in home runs at a recent game:

“And Prince Fielder, he almost hit the ball all the way out of the garden!”

I hereby recommend we rename all places where baseball is played “gardens”. No more “ballpark”, “stadium”, “field”, “dome”, or any of those other terms which are often ridiculously preceded by corporate sponsorship. Baseball is a very idyllic game. “Garden” is a rather idyllic word. It’s a match made in Cooperstown. Hey, I know it might take a while to catch on.

Until it does, though, I personally will be meeting you down at The Garden by I-94 where we’ll catch the Brewers playing nine.

Onward.

My favorite verse of this hymn is the last one: “Freely bestowed” – Amen to that!

Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt!
Yonder on Calvary’s mount outpoured,
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilled.

Refrain

Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that will pardon and cleanse within;
Grace, grace, God’s grace,
Grace that is greater than all our sin.

Sin and despair, like the sea waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold,
Points to the refuge, the mighty cross.

Refrain

Dark is the stain that we cannot hide.
What can avail to wash it away?
Look! There is flowing a crimson tide,
Whiter than snow you may be today.

Refrain

Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe!
You that are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?

Refrain