I have always been a big football fan. Growing up in Steeler country solidified my love of football. I love all levels, from the pros down to the little guys who have to hold their helmets on when they run. (They actually may be my favorite to watch!)
Lately, however, I have been watching golf. A few years ago I would have told you that I thought golf the most boring game (sorry Patty, you know that is true!). Over the last year or so, I have changed my mind. Yes, it is far from action-packed, rough-and-tumble football, but I have come to appreciate the subtleties of the game.
Granted I still do not understand all the rules, but I am learning as I watch. I doubt I could ever play golf; I am just not that coordinated. I am loving watching it though.
Two weeks ago, Jon Rahm, a Spaniard, was leading the Memorial Tournament by six strokes finishing up day three of four. Then a positive COVID-19 test forced him to withdraw. The officials told him in full view of the cameras and public after he finished play. His stunned emotions were swift and apparent.
This past Sunday, cleared of COVID-19, Rahm won the U.S. Open. He was off the lead through the first three days, but surged at the end, winning by one stoke with two birdies on the last two holes. His joyful emotions were swift and apparent.
While I see many spiritual lessons in football about teamwork and working together; in golf I am also seeing many spiritual lessons about our singular walk with God. Sometimes we are in the fairway, right on target. Other times we are in the rough. There are times when we have to find our way out of a bunker, a trap the enemy has set for us. And times when we just have to find the inner courage to keep going no matter what is aimed against us.
Through it all we walk our course. Others often walk along with us and we gather strength by their presence. Still, each of us is following Jesus through our own particular course of life.
Matthew 4:18:20: “As [Jesus] was walking along the Sea of Galilee, He saw two brothers, Simon, who was called Peter, and his brother Andrew. They were casting a net into the sea, since they were fishermen. ‘Follow Me,’ He told them, ‘and I will make you fish for people!’ Immediately they left their nets and followed Him.” [HCSB]
