Remember Those John 3:16 Signs?

YOU SELDOM SEE THEM at the ballpark or on TV anymore, but during the 80's there was always someone in the stands behind homeplate holding up a 'John 3:16' sign, originally started by the Rainbow Man. Some people scratched their heads wondering what it meant, but most people recognized the biblical reference:

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."

Over time 'John 3:16' went from part confusion and annoyance to acceptance in becoming a part of baseball culture and its' history.

So in light of the sign, I sat down not too long ago and thought about the phrase 'Jesus Saves' that essentially summarizes the verse. And that's when it hit me. After drawing a sketch of the robed Messiah in sandals, including his beard and long hair, throwing a baseball, Jesus the Closer had not only saved mankind but also a baseball game. I really felt that the robe and sandals were necessary or else he would be indistinguishable from guys like Bruce Sutter or Al Hrabosky. Actually, those two are exactly who he ended up looking like, his face that is, which is fitting since they closed out games during the John 3:16 era. These days, most closers are either clean shaven or sport a mere goatee. Back then, man, they had it all.

In any case, whether you're Christian or non-Christian, just remember that 'John 3:16' and 'Jesus Saves' has a place in baseball history.

The initial sketch:





The final design:


If you're interested in purchasing a shirt with this design, please visit the OCTOBER MOMENTS CafePress Store. Read the product review of this shirt.