How do you pray after playing golf? After a ladies’ golf tournament, I was asked to offer grace. Even though I was grateful to be asked, I didn’t know what to pray for. The spiritual aspect of golf was something I wanted to learn more about so I started looking into literature. Fairway to Heaven, In His Grip and Chicken Soup to the Golfer’s Soul were all titles that I was interested in. These books were certainly inspirational, but they didn’t give me any guidance on how to pray.
Internet searches revealed that Christians are known for their humorous anecdotes about golf. You may have heard of the story about Jesus Christ, God, Tiger Woods and 18 other holes. While it is quite amusing, I didn’t think I could make a joke out of my prayer. People may not find it easy to laugh during grace.
A religious tale about a golfer was what I had in mind. My sister told me that Vijay Singh won Masters because his entire family prayed for success for the whole day. What if the family of any other golfers prayed for their win? What made God listen to Singh’s prayers? It was confusing. The other women may have been confused if I shared Vijay’s story at luncheon.
Perhaps I can share some ideas on how golf can make a positive difference in someone’s lives.
Golf offers the chance to enjoy the outdoors. It is a great way to appreciate the beauty and wonder of God’s creation.
Golf provides a means to stay fit and strengthen relationships with loved ones. Golf can provide a great therapeutic experience. One widow told me how, after the death of her husband, going on the course provided her with an enjoyable diversion when she felt sad or lonely.
You can meet people through golf. Through the links, I have met many fascinating strangers. Sometimes, our conversations lead to faith-related discussions. One summer afternoon, my husband and I went golfing alongside two navy lieutenants at the Olympic View Course in Victoria. The one officer who missed the crucial hole said that he regretted it. “I knew I’d have to pay sometime for skipping out of church last Sunday.”I found it natural to me to inquire. “what church would that be?”
The game of golf is a great way to encourage and affirm others. A weekly ladies league keeps me positive and in good company. My golf game doesn’t seem hopeless because of the positive attitude I get from my fellow women. My scores are praised by them and I am encouraged to find the best in each shot. My female companions in golf have taught me valuable lessons about affirmation.
Supporting worthy projects can be done through golf. To raise money, many organizations sponsor tournaments on the golf course. My husband and me have often entered tournaments in which the proceeds are donated to charitable causes.
You might be curious as to what ended up being said at the dinner. My table grace was not prefaced with comments. Then I asked them to bow their heads, and I then said ……
Thank you, God.
Today was an opportunity for us to have a game of golf. For the physical exercise, the companionship and the chance to see the wonders of nature, we are grateful. We should open our eyes and minds to what this game has to teach us about life …… It is important to remember that not all women have the best golf attire, or even the finest clubs. Those who are patient and persistent will earn the lowest handicaps.
We are all winners if everyone plays together. Your blessing is needed for this meal.
Amen.