Disc Golf Devotionals

After two and a half years, I find myself reflecting on my journey of faith in the midst of darkness. Regrettably, my passion for disc golf and its related devotionals has waned in recent months. Life's journey often leads us down unexpected paths, and sometimes, passions once fervently pursued dim in the shadows.

Yet, disc golf holds a special place in my heart, intertwined with cherished friendships and countless opportunities it has brought. As time stretches on, priorities shift, and endeavors once central may fade if not nurtured.

In the midst of challenges that overwhelm our own strength, the Lord often beckons us to turn to Him, to lean on His unwavering support. It is my resolve, strengthened by His grace, to rekindle my focus on devotionals in the weeks ahead and fulfill the promises made to many.

Journey of Faith ... Believing while in Darkness!

A kid of eighteen, or so, came to the disc golf course a few years back. He knew nothing of the sport yet was intrigued enough to join our group for a round. Like most newcomers, his lack of disc golf knowledge also held true with his abilities. Wild drives and floppy putts slowed our group to a snail's pace. The continued exuberance of this novice, even with disastrous play, was enjoyable in itself as we witnessed the addition of disc golf evolve within this newcomer!

Over the coming months this "novice" continued to play and gradually surpassed many, including myself, with his skills. His love of the sport was evident from day one. His belief in himself and the possibilities of his own unrealized abilities never lessened or flinched. He conquered the sport through faith in his ability to learn and strengthen his talents.

The above glimpse of an evolving disc golfer reminds me of verse 29 in John 20 ... words that were spoken to Thomas after questioned the Jesus' resurrection:

"Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed."

Thomas had to "see and touch" before he could believe! For the novice who joined our group, like Thomas, no one believed or "could see" his possibilities. More so, we felt his ability to succeed in the sport was afar reach! In our wildest dreams, we could not imagine he would ever become a professional disc golfer! While our faith in his abilities were small, his confidence in studying the game, learning it, and honing his abilities was just igniting. Through faith in himself he overcame mistakes, grew his skills, and took on the best of disc golf competitors. He had faith all along!

Faith ... it is such a powerful word. It can move mountains when strong. It can turn into disaster when weak.

In the world today, due to COVID, faith throughout the world has been weaken. Congregations have dwindled as member's became disassociated with practicing their faith. A lack of "seeing" on a communal basis has driven many Christians to question their faith, their beliefs, and their God. It is time for a renewed energy to replace the pandemic void and bring a resurgence of faith to believers. We must rekindle our spirits to walk by faith rather than sight.

How to do this is a question we all face on a personal basis. To start, we refer to the written word. It has provided answers and has guided lives for centuries.

As sure as the Sun rises tomorrow, through faith, we know God surrounds and protects us. Even while the world around us may speak otherwise, faith provides a glimmer of hope in life's darkness.

Like a beginning disc golfer who did not focus on his initial play, we must rely on where we want our paths to take us for our future and thank our Lord for each step along our journey.

For we walk by faith, not by sight. - 2 Corinthians 5:7

Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. - Hebrews 11:1

Around the Corner ... Spring!

Just a couple of weeks ago I slipping around taking photos of my dog in the snow. Grocery stores were running out of milk, meat, bread, eggs, and sandwich meats .... all essentials around our household!

Now, just a few days later, the daffodils are sticking out their necks and preparing to unleash their yellow blossoms. Warm, sun-shiny days are happening. Birds are singing and disc golf is calling! It is that time of year to stretch out our arms and unleash some plastic.

Don't forget the blessings of Spring

Go play! Be Thankful! Do another round!

Enjoy!

"See! The winter is past; the rains are over and gone.
Flowers appear on the earth; the season of singing has come"
Song of Solomon II, 11-12