Race car driver Helio Castroneves apologized for his outburst after last Sunday’s race. Although he crossed the finish line first, he was penalized for blocking and was bumped down to 10^th place. Enraged by the decision, Castroneves screamed at race officials and even grabbed one man by the collar. He was later sorry for his actions, and on Monday he posted an apology on his website. He said, “…My actions were totally wrong…I let my emotions get the better of me and I’m very sorry for that.”

On the same day, another sports figure issued an apology for his poor behavior. Cubs pitcher Carlos Zambrano apologized on ESPN for a tirade in the dugout that led to his suspension. He admitted that the episode was his fault and said that he was sorry from the bottom of his heart.

Why is it that so many Christians find it hard to say, “I’m sorry”? I’ve witnessed some outlandish behavior in meetings that were supposedly for the purpose of advancing the kingdom of God. Yet when the time came for apologies—silence–nothing but crickets chirping.

It’s sad when Christians need to learn from the world the importance of an apology.

Carlos Zambrano