Five out of six nights of the last week, I stayed at the tournament site finishing matches from 1:30am to 5am. Now, what was great about it was not staying up all night and getting up the next morning (not good!) to go back but sitting in the player guest box. That works really well for personal relationship ministry as it creates a deep bond.
One memorable moment stands out:
Two doubles teams had to play against each other in a quarterfinal match and I was given player guest box access for both teams at the same time. I spoke to all four players before the match and they agreed that I could spend the first set in one teams box, the second set in the other teams box and if need be remain in the final box for the deciding tie-breaker. Competitors agreeing in unity to a Godly aspect, Great!.
When I sit in the box I do not clap or cheer, but I do pray and talk to the others in the box. I do not pray for a players winning or losing, but lots of other things, such as health, healing, a Godly attitude, a clear mind and also sharing with other people in the player box.
After the match I spoke to the winning team and one member of the losing team (the other was under physical therapy) at 2:30am. I was able to bring a Godly perspective to all. What more could I do (except to be available for God's use) and I thank God for that.
