What keeps Us going.

A player unexpectedly wins a Grand Slam singles title and becomes the hero of that nation in the 1970's.  Another player wins Grand Slam doubles and mixed titles from 1999 to 2006 achieving a number one world ranking. What do they both have in common? - A father who was an Archdeacon of a nation and the other a Godfather who is the Bishop of another nation.  They both grew up with a strong Christian heritage but with different nationalities.

This retired player is seemingly very quiet and reserved towards others.  I approached boldly but with trepidation wondering if the response to me would be anger or joy and I asked, "I am a Pastor and I work with players and I heard that your Father was a Deacon, is that true?”  A big friendly smile was shown to me and the answer was 'Yes".  I then explained my working with players spiritually and the answer was "that is wonderful'.  Then I asked if "The Daily Verse" could be given, and again a "Yes".  We know each other now and I look forward to that next 'smile'.

Another player I met in the mid-1990's at a tournament in Hong Kong and shared the message of Christ.  Since this time we see each other frequently at various tournaments around the world and we've exchanged email addresses.  A comment to me a few years ago at the French Open always sticks in my mind, "You are always welcome at my table".  While our conversations never went deeply on spiritual matters during this past decade, the player was always welcoming, friendly and accepted "The Daily Verse" and any materials that I had.  At the US Open, the player sat next to me and spoke on faith for the first time.  This came about because I offered communion.  The response, "My Godfather is the Bishop" and I always take communion.  I always look forward to seeing this players welcoming manner towards me.

These kinds of experiences keep me going.  What keeps you going and growing in your belief in your own mind that something is true?