A Tennis Missionary remembers

Prayer requests for my European trip

Pastor Bob Kraft and Tennis Ministry Prayer points:

1.  Manila, Philippines - May 21 to 24 Youth Conference.

a.  My housing with the host family.
b.  Relationship with Everynation church leadership.
c.  Discussion on future Gospel tennis camp to business and government leaders in Philippines.
d.  Discussion on future cooperation with youth conference and tennis ministry.

2.  Hong Kong - May 24

a.  Family time.

 3.  Paris, France - May 25 to June 9

a.  Access to tournament site and players lounge.
b.  Wisdom and relationship for those against this ministry.
c.  May 31st - Fan outreach to French Open, pray for participating churches.  Bob and Mia's eleventh wedding anniversary.
d.  June 1st, Bob preaching in Paris church.
e.  June 6th - Fan outreach to French Open; Bob's fifty-first birthday.
f.  What Would Jesus Do bracelets to be given out to players - if I have them.
g.  Protection against physical sickness or illness.
h.  No back pain.
k.  Adjustment to jet lag.

4.  London, England - June 10 to July 9

a.  Housing with host family.  Pray for a smooth relationship.
b.  Access to tournament sites and the players lounge.
c.  Wisdom and relationship for those against this ministry.
e.  Food availability.
f.   'More than Gold' spiritual booklets that will be received on time and passed out to the correct people.
g.  Transport to the tournaments sites.
h.  June 15,16 - Bob attending a weekend church retreat with host family.
i.   June 21st - Meeting with businessman and residents of London for discussion of future ministry events.
j.   No back pain.

5. Hong Kong - July 10 to 18

a.  Family time.
b.  Office time/tennis lessons.
c.  Adjustment to jet lag.

5.  Honolulu, Hawaii July 19 to August 10

a.  Family time.
b.  Relationship with various churches in Hawaii as I meet Pastors and church members.

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com

Prayer requests for my European trip

Pastor Bob Kraft and Tennis Ministry Prayer points.

1.  Manila, Philippines - May 21 to 24 Youth Conference.

a.  My housing with the host family.
b.  Relationship with Everynation church leadership.
c.  Discussion on future Gospel tennis camp to business and government leaders in Philippines.
d.  Discussion on future cooperation with youth conference and tennis ministry.

2.  Hong Kong - May 24

a.  Family time.

3.  Paris, France - May 25 to June 9

a.  Access to tournament site and players lounge.
b.  Wisdom and relationship for those against this ministry.
c.  May 31st - Fan outreach to French Open, pray for participating churches.  Bob and Mia's eleventh wedding anniversary.
d.  June 1st, Bob preaching in Paris church.
e.  June 6th - Fan outreach to French Open; Bob's fifty-first birthday.
f.  What Would Jesus Do bracelets to be given out to players - if I have them.
g.  Protection against physical sickness or illness.
h.  No back pain.
i.  Adjustment to jet lag.

4.  London, England - June 10 to July 9

a.  Housing with host family.  Pray for a smooth relationship.
b.  Access to tournament sites and access to the players lounge.
c.  Wisdom and relationship for those against this ministry.
e.  Food availability.
f.   'More than Gold'  spiritual booklets that will be received on time and passed out to the correct people.
g.  Transport to the tournaments sites.
h.  June 15,16 - Bob attending a weekend church retreat with host family.
i.   June 21st - Meeting with businessman and residents of London for discussion of future ministry events.
j.   No back pain.

5. Hong Kong - July 10 to 18

a.  Family time.
b.  Office time/tennis lessons.
c.  Adjustment to jet lag.

5.  Honolulu, Hawaii July 19 to August 10

a.  Family time.
b.  Relationship with various churches in Hawaii as I meet Pastors and church members.

My most underrated team-member.

The most underrated person on my team - is my wife.  I know what she has done, what she has honored in my work, what she has done for our two children, the sacrifices she has made and the persecution for the Gospel she has endured.  I do not speak about her often to others and I can respect and defend her decisions based upon what she had done for myself and our children.

When we first married, she acted as a translator for me for mission work in Communist China and paid a heavy price for that with persecution.  When I started the tennis ministry, it involved me working long hours - long after she had fallen asleep.  She honored that without complaint.  She gave up her own desire to travel to where she wanted to go, so that we could travel to where I was requested as a missionary.  She works to help support the family and thus allows me to use the additional money to support missions.  She birthed our two lovely children and spends all her free time schooling them.  She prepared wonderful meals for me.  She allows me to travel for the Gospel's sake, understanding the message to others that takes place as I travel. She curtails her spending so that we can have more for the family and additional money to support missions. We went forward together and were sent out by the church. 

A better wife I could not have. God brought her to me in Mainland China.  I often imagine that God must have looked down at me and said "I have the right person for what you need, she is there" and then He pointed to a spot in China.

http://dailyverse.multiply.com (upcoming on May 7th: ENJOY LIFE WITH YOUR WIFE [AND YOUR HUSBAND], WHOM YOU LOVE)
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com

ENJOY LIFE WITH YOUR WIFE [AND YOUR HUSBAND], WHOM YOU LOVE

The pro tennis tour, including both men's and women's, has fewer than five players who are married and spend time traveling with their wife and children. The tennis tour ministry that I am involved with includes education of what goes into a good and meaningful, long-lasting relationship and the ability to make a commitment that includes a marriage with a spouse of the opposite sex.  Once you accept this responsibility, it is very difficult to have a solid relationship if your spouse and/or children are separated from you for long periods of time.

As I Christian (or, a human being) God should be first in your life.   Then the question is, what comes second?  Your marriage or your tennis.  A person may do anything, but not all actions are good for you.(1 Corinthians 6:12)  As a Christian player, you need to know what the Bible teaches about "what a spouse is" and what each others joint responsibilities are. (1 Corinthians 7)

If it is tennis as your choice, then you may very well travel and leave your spouse at home.  That can be a recipe for disaster.  The pro tour is full of temptations that undermine a marriage.  In addition, the day to day joys of living daily life together are not known or enjoyed by either spouse.  I would strongly suggest that a player or coach find another line of employment, if the consideration includes making or saving money by not spending time with your family.  A marriage can survive these conditions, but only if you are both committed to the marriage.

Enjoy life with your wife [and your husband] whom you love - Ecclesiastes 9:9

Marriages start because of love or even other reasons, but they continue because of commitment. If you've been travelling down the road to success, but neglected to bring your family along, it’s time to make a U-turn. Go back and pick up the people who matter most!  Commit yourself to traveling on a journey in life that includes them!

http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com (latest: My most underrated team-member.)

Weekly Verse - May 12, 2008

MONDAY:  (Tournaments this week: ATP - Hamburg WTA - Rome)  Remember those in prison... as if you yourselves were suffering. - Hebrews 13:3
I've spent time praying for people under persecution in difficult nations. How about you?

TUESDAY:  His (Satan) time is short. - Revelation 12:12
There's a battle going on for the soul of nations, because satan knows his time is short.

WEDNESDAY:  When you do it for them ­ you do it for Him (Jesus) too! - Matthew 25:40
Please remember to pray for those in prison as if you yourselves were suffering.

THURSDAY:  From one man He (God) made every nation. - Acts 17:26
Think of the indignity of having been forced to ride in the back of a bus, drink from a separate water fountain, and refused the right to attend college ­ because of the color of your skin! The Bible says we all came from the same family.

FRIDAY:  It is against our law for a Jew to associate with a Gentile...But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean - Acts 10:28-29
Let’s speak up for those who live with discrimination every day ­ in violation of God’s Word. Prejudices hide deep within all of us, and it takes real honesty to face it.

SATURDAY:  That they may be one. - John 17:11
We’ll never see the prayer of Jesus answered that we all be one, until we face our prejudices.

SUNDAY:  He will yet fill our mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy. - Job 8:21
Sometimes the healing comes first and the answers come later!  But when you think of it, wouldn't you rather walk with God in the dark, than go alone in the light?

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com ( latest: ENJOY LIFE WITH YOUR WIFE [AND YOUR HUSBAND], WHOM YOU LOVE)
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com (latest: My most underrated team-member.)

Discipleship is Relationship

Have you ever heard anyone who just talks constantly about tennis, business, or anything else?  After about fifteen minutes my eyes start to glaze over, my thoughts roam and I start to tune out.  You have five minutes and I'm counting!  Just joking - on the 'doom' element!

We are so much more than a 'one act' as human beings.  Don't be afraid to expand your horizon, in fact that is what God intended for us.  Discipleship is a lot like this. We are to go everywhere and simply share.

A hospital, prison, orphanage, earthquake ravaged city, nightclub, nursing home or seminary.
On the street, beach and tennis court.
To the homeless, lepers, students, the sick, the dying, the young and the old.
The Communists, Atheists, Muslims, Buddhists and Hindus.
In a church building to church goers - some of whom are Christians and some whom are not.

How can you be bored from all these interesting situations and people.
- While these are my own stories, hope that you would have your own.  If you don't you might question yourself as to why not? They are everywhere for those who seek them!

Some people see God EVERYWHERE; others see Him NOWHERE. 

My friend Pastor Joey Bonficaio, Senior Pastor of Victory Christian Fellowship, Manila, Philippines and one of my favorite bloggers wrote last year on this topic titled "Discipleship and Wimbledon".
You can also read the latest topic for some thoughts on the French Open at my Daily Verse Blog ”Finishing Strong, Retired players".

Finishing Strong, Retired players - French Open

I just found out that several players are not going to be at the upcoming Grand Slam events after having played for more than three decades at these events, most recently in the senior and invitational doubles. They all have one thing in common each winning a Grand Slam Championship (Australian, French, Wimbledon or US Opens) and often more than one in their era. 

This is a group that would sit around and graciously include me as we talked about our families, our children, our histories and our life's journeys.  We have done this for quite a few years now at Grand Slams and I am especially fond of remembering the table in the French Open players lounge that we would sit at until 7-8pm just talking.  Some were Christians and some were not, but we always got along wonderfully.  I am so thankful that God allowed me to get to know you and it is an honor and privilege to know each of you.

I will miss you guys. I will miss our companionship. I will our stories. I will miss having the opportunity to hear about the tour in 70' and 80's.  I will miss watching you play.  I will miss our laughter.  I will miss meeting your family.  Most importantly I will miss sharing about Christ with you.  Yes, tears are coming now for me, as how can I forget how kind you were to me, even offering me your meal allowance when I was first in need.

Let's move on...knowing that we have to.  But remember that we are never far away from each other, through prayer.  Please do pray for me; as I will for you.  I continue on at those Slam events reaching another generation of players and remember the old saying 'until we meet again'.

Remember as we face the end of our journeys. God can always use us to help others.  If we can breathe - PRAY!  If we can speak - ENCOURAGE OTHERS!  If we can recall - TELL WHERE THE POTHOLES ARE AND SAVE US FROM FALLING IN THEM.  It's wonderful what God can do in just one day - so give Him all the days you have left to help others.  God will make a way, when there seems to be no way!

Moses was a hundred and twenty years old when he died; his eye was not dim nor his natural force abated. - Deuteronomy 34:7
The Lord blessed the latter end of Job more than the beginning. - Job 42:12

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com (latest: Discipleship is Relationship)

Weekly Verse - May 5, 2008

MONDAY: (Tournaments this week: ATP - Rome, WTA - Berlin) I can do everything God asks me to with the help of Christ. - Philippians 4:13
Pray and praise God till every door is opened!  Give it all you’ve got and keep pressing on!

TUESDAY:  Set at liberty them that are bound. - Luke 4:18
Bound by what? By past mistakes, by wrong teaching, by physical, emotional, or mental handicaps. I don’t care how bad your past may have been; your future is worth believing in and fighting for.

WEDNESDAY:  The Lord shall increase you more and more, you and your children, you are blessed of the Lord which made heaven and earth. -  Psalm 115:12-15
God had given you everything you have, and make sure you share it generously.

THURSDAY:  You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion. - 2 Corinthians 9:11
The Bible teaches that God wants to put us in to a position to help. So please, let’s get rid of our uneasiness when it comes to the subject of money.  Haven’t you wished at times you could do more to help?

FRIDAY:  I will bless you...and you shall be a blessing. - Genesis 12:2
We’re supposed to be part of the solution, not part of the problem! Today God is raising up people who will demonstrate in every area of their lives what it’s like to live in God.

SATURDAY:  Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm.  Let nothing move you.  Always give yourselves fully.  - Corinthians 15:58
Press on! Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Persistence and determination alone will prevail.

SUNDAY:  Whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle. - Hebrew 11:34
You start out weak, and become strong. How? Through the battle!

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com (latest: Discipleship is Relationship) 

A Champions credentials. Your request.

Four ways that a person who is not a pro tennis player in an actual tournament gets in to the area where the players relax and prepare for matches.  1.  Be a former Champion of the tournament.  2.  Be a guest of a player playing or guest of a former champion.  3.  Coach a player.  4. Tournament guest VIP.

I really respect that a player playing has achieved the designation of worlds top level.  Certainly such a player is special and should be treated as such. 

As a Pastor and a friend working with numerous players, I really am so thankful to God for that opportunity to help.  God also allows a Pastor to be respected and assisted.

Please contact me if you are a player, former champion or an administrator would like to assist in any way for the French, Queens, Wimbledon, US, Hopman Cup, Sydney and Australian.

Daily Verse - April 28, 2008

MONDAY:  Everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened.  - Matthew 7:7
So many times we lose, when we could have won, because we were afraid to keep asking, to keep seeking, and to keep knocking. We just stood back and let somebody else take the risk and get the reward.

TUESDAY:  I will rise and go to my Father. - Luke 15:18
God will go to great lengths to help you, but He can do nothing for you if you just lie there!

WEDNESDAY:  We are God's...no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ. - 1 Corinthians 3:9-11
When a child's adult role models let them down, point your children to Jesus. Tell them how He handled life, and what He had to say about the problems they'll face.

THURSDAY:  For this reason was I (Jesus) born. - John18:37
Teach a child that they too were born for a special purpose and if they'll just walk with the Lord, He'll reveal it to them. That's success; anything less is failure, regardless of how rich or famous it makes them.

FRIDAY:  If you want favor with both God and man...trust the Lord completely.  - Proverbs 3:4-5
Faith is asking God to do what you can't do, and being able to smile in the storm because you know you absolutely know, He's going to do it.

SATURDAY:  You are precious and honored in my sight...do not be afraid, for I (God) am with you. - Isaiah. 43:4-5
When you've run out of strength and you can't fight another day, God will send in reinforcements. So start looking for them!

SUNDAY:  For as a man thinks in his heart, so he is.  - Proverbs 23:7
I don't care how bad your past may have been; your future is worth believing in and fighting for. Think about it!

Weekly Verse - April 21, 2008

MONDAY:  There is no other God who is able to deliver in this way. - Daniel 3:29
That's what the world is waiting for; somebody who'll 'put everything on the line,' and let the world see God's power. The question is - are you that person?

TUESDAY:  Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, 'Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?' Jesus answered, 'I tell you , not seven times, but seventy-seven times.'  - Matthew 18:21-22
Always allow others room to turn around. Everybody deserves a chance to change, so allow them to do so. When the pressure's on, things come to the surface in all of us and it's so easy to say the wrong thing, arrive at the wrong conclusion and make the wrong decision. Don't force others to live by their past, while you expect yours to be forgiven and forgotten.

WEDNESDAY:   Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. - Matthew 5:7
When it comes to relationships, everybody makes mistakes. Give them a chance to come back into the relationship with dignity.

THURSDAY:  It matters very little to me what you think of me...the master makes that judgment. - 1 Corinthians 4: 1
God begins building something more dependent on His anointing than on your ability. It's a relief to be out of a race for reputation!

FRIDAY:  I (Apostle Paul speaking) didn't try to impress you with polished speeches and the latest philosophy. I deliberately kept it plain and simple: first Jesus and who He is; then Jesus and what He did. - 1 Corinthians 2:2
If you want to get out of the reputation race, first, stop taking yourself so seriously. If you're worried about what others think of you - relax.  They're probably not thinking about you at all!

SATURDAY:  Therefore, however you want people to treat you, so treat them. - Matthew 7:12  Turn your accomplishments into challenges. Use them as building blocks - not pedestals to rest on. You haven't 'arrived' yet, so keep pressing on!

SUNDAY:  Choose for yourselves today whom you will serve...But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. - Joshua 24:15
Settle the issue of commitment before the challenge arises or you'll falter in the hour of decision. The battle is won before the battle is begun.

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com (latest: French, Wimbledon, US Open outreach)

French Open, Wimbledon, US Open outreach

French Open:
* <Fans, Players, Coaches>  Fan outreach is planned for Saturday, May 31st and June 6th during the tournament with several Parisian churches at Porte d'Auteuil metro stop. Google Map here.   This is the third year that this has taken place.  Everyone is welcome to join in as the fans are spoken to on their walk to the tournament.  No tournament tickets are required, just your willingness to speak to others about Christ.   See Photos from 2007 here.
* <Fans, Paris Residents, Players, Coaches>  Reverend Bob Kraft gives a June 1st message at Communaute Chretieanne du Point du Jour Church; a short ten minute walk from the tournament site.  Google Map here.
* <Players, Coaches>  Interested players at the tournament will receive a free WWJD bracelet. 
* <Fans, Players, Coaches>  May 24th 'March for Jesus' takes place in the Paris city centre.  This involves thousands of people who have a Parade through the streets of Paris.  In 2007, several from the tournament attended and you are welcome to go this year participate or just observe. See Photos from 2007 here.

Wimbledon:
* <Fans, Wimbledon Residents, Players, Coaches>:  Rev. Kraft will hold a fellowship, prayer meeting and gathering for all those interested in Wimbledon and UK outreach during the Championships.  The meeting will take place at Queens Road Church, Wimbledon.  Google Map here.  The date is Saturday June 21st from 7:30-8:15pm followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant for those who are interested in speaking further.  All are welcome to attend regardless of faith, denomination or even playing abilities.  Welcome!
* <Players, Coaches>:  'More Than Gold" booklets in English, Chinese and Spanish will be given to our friends who are players at the tournament free.  This is the same book that is being prepared for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and is a daily devotional with fantastic sports stories.  This is provided by RBC ministries who has worked alongside Rev. Bob Kraft for a number of years.  Thanks for the partnership!

US Open:
* <Players, Coaches> Kevin Singleton, music worship leader from the USA will be available to provide music in player hotel rooms free.  Each player can then invite him and then you can invite your friends.  This gives each person a opportunity to reach out to your tour friends in a private setting.  Kevin is a song writer and performs yearly around the world to stadiums and youth groups.  Interestingly enough Kevin was a former pro basketball player in Europe and his Father was the men's tennis coach at Santa Monica College in California.  His website: http://www.kevinsingleton.com

2007 Wimbledon player testimony:  "We had regular meetings in the evenings where we shared in worship songs and real life stories where we were able to encourage each other and build each other up.  As a retired player from the pro tour it is easy to feel like I no longer belong, but this was a wonderful opportunity to have people to "come home to"  and feel connected with (by my faith in Christ)." -  Rosalyn Fairbanks-Nideffer, Grand Slam Champion, 2008 Wimbledon Ladies' Invitation Doubles Finalist (used with permission)

Commitment - are you going in circles?

If I could pick one word to describe commitment, I'd pick the word: alone.  No other person can make YOUR commitment for you, except YOU.  No parent, no coach, no mentor. It can be a lonely road, especially without the presence of God. Friends fall away.  Co-workers come and go.  But you remain the same...committed to YOUR cause.  You believe, others doubt.  You work, others play.  You cry, others laugh. You sacrifice and others reap.

In the Bible it states in the Old Testament that Daniel dined and prayed alone. Elijah sacrificed and witnessed alone.  Jeremiah prophesied and wept alone.  David went out to meet Goliath alone.  And in the New Testament, Paul said, "all men forsook me...Notwithstanding the Lord stood with me and strengthened me. (2 Timothy 4:16-17).  When God decides to deal with you, He'll get you alone.  In the Old Testament, Jacob was "LEFT".  "And Jacob was left alone." (Genesis 32:24).


My six year old daughter, Ashley, has often reminded me "Dad. Jesus is always with you!".  While we can not see His presence, we can be assured that He knows all.  He knows our feelings, accomplishments and desires.  The hours that an athlete spends practicing, seemingly alone, is not going unnoticed.

Only you can decide whether the rewards are worth the effort, for the truth is, that there are trade-offs.  Commitment means paying your dues.  Listen to these words: "If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow Me." (Matthew 16:24)   The "cross" is a symbol of self sacrifice.   Today, ask yourself, "To what am I really committed?"

When you make a radical commitment to follow God, you'll go where you've never been before!  If you're still looking at the same ground 10 years later, you're going in circles.  God will give you chances to win, but it's your commitment that determines the size of your victory and ultimately the effectiveness of your life.

Weekly Verse April 14, 2008

MONDAY:  Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:2

You'll never be more like Jesus than when you accept people as they are, refusing to give up on them because you know what God's grace can do in their lives.

TUESDAY:  For you shall forget your misery; you shall remember it as waters that pass away. And your life shall be clearer than the noonday...You shall lie down and none shall make you afraid. - Job 11:16-19

Can the pain of the past ever be forgotten? Yes! You can take the misery out of the memory, like you'd pull the stinger out of an insect bite, then healing will begin immediately.

WEDNESDAY:  Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. - Psalm 30:5

Rise up and take authority over every memory that keeps you linked to the past. Let the peace and the anointing of God heal the scars, break the chains that bind you and set you totally free.

THURSDAY:  The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. - Proverbs 9:10

How well do you know the Lord? How close do you really want to be to Him? Nobody but you can answer that question.

FRIDAY:  For we are labourers together with God. - 1 Corinthians 3:9

When you're in partnership with God, your potential for success is unlimited - so make your plans big!

SATURDAY:  If you abide in Me, and My (Christ) Words abide in you, you shall ask what you will, and it shall be done unto you. - John 15:7

Next time someone asks you what you work at, tell them, "I'm in partnership with God."

SUNDAY: No man stood with me, but all men forsook me...notwithstanding the Lord stood with me, and strengthened me...and I was delivered out of the mouth of the lion. - 2 Timothy 4:16-17

Until I am committed, there is a hesitancy, a chance to draw back. But the moment I definitely commit myself, then God moves also and a whole stream of events begin. All manner of unforeseen incidents, meetings, people and material assistance, of which I never dreamed, begin to move towards me - the moment I make that commitment.

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com (lastest update: April 8, 2008)
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com (Latest: I love it! The Church)

I love it! - the Church.

I love The Church.  I have consistently attended wonderful churches that have blessed myself and my family.  I have met wonderful Pastors and their families.  This is one reason that I serve in the church today - I saw great examples.  I have never left a church that I attended because I was unhappy, only when I moved to another city.   I have served in the church as a volunteer and attended each for a number of years, the longest being over twenty years.

Churches I have joined and attended regularly - as in consistent weekly attendance.
1980's
Non-denominational church in Illinois
Rhema Church in Illinois, a faith based church.
Moody Church in Indiana, a mission based church.

1990's
Non-denominational church in Hong Kong
Calvary Chapel in Colordo
Baptist Church in Hong Kong

2000's
Full Gospel Church in Hong Kong

(*this message may be for you if you attend a few times a year, jump around to different churches and feel that you really have church attendance.)

The other sites:
dailyverse.multiply.com (blog this upcoming week: "Smashing - The Love of Christ")
tennisministry.org

Smashing. - The Love of Christ.

I often tell others on the tennis tour, that we have a lot more in common as human beings than we have differences.

Nothing brings me greater sadness than to see a person who criticizes another harshly, accusatively, and threateningly.  It is just not necessary.  I became a follower of Christ because I saw kind people who were Christians not doing that.  I am 'right' and 'you are wrong' mentality goes no where except towards tearing down. But this is not the same thing as 'the Bible is right and I/you are wrong.  If tearing down is the action of a Christian why would anyone want to be a Christian, but on the other-hand if building up is the action of a Christian, many want to believe.

Care for other people and be kind to them.  The Bible states: "(Jesus  speaking)  A new command I give you: Love one another.  As I have loved you, so you must love one another.  By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another." - John 13:35

If you are having difficultly in your church or with an individual, then move to another church or stop talking about individuals and by all means do not "bash'..  If you do not like what a church, a Pastor or a person is doing, focus on improving yourself and pray for the situation.  That is LOVE of Christ-in-us in action.

Weekly Verse April 7, 2008

MONDAY:  For whoever wishes to save his life shall lose it, but whoever loses his life for My (Christ) sake, he is the one who will save it. - Luke 9:24
The only safe place to be today is in His will!

TUESDAY:  But I know, that even now, what so ever you ask of God, God will give it to you. - John 11:22
God has the power to raise you up again. You may have been married and divorced; be struggling with habits; be living in a prison or a penthouse; be black or white, gay or straight; it doesn't matter. All you have to do is open your heart to Jesus today.

WEDNESDAY:  I know that he shall rise again in the resurrection. - John 11:24
you need to know your rights, your privileges and your authority in Christ - right now. When you do, your life will change radically.

THURSDAY:  And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. - Hebrews 10:24
All around you today are people with genuine needs, who feel unloved and unwanted. Share with them what you've got, both materially and spiritually.

FRIDAY:  Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly (fleshly) nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed which is idolatry. - Colossians 3:5
If you want to be used by God, 'the flesh' must go and you must 'die.'That's not a popular message; we'd rather focus on the benefits and the blessings of serving the Lord. But there's a price to be paid.

SATURDAY:  Any of you who does not give up everything...cannot be My (Christ's) disciple. - Luke 14:33
What a price tag! Are you truly His disciple?

SUNDAY: Everything happening to me (Apostle Paul) in this jail only serves to make Christ more accurately known, regardless of whether I live or die. They didn't shut me up; they gave me a pulpit! Alive, I'm Christ's messenger; dead, I'm His bounty. Life versus even more life! I can't lose. - Phillipians 1:20
That was Paul's attitude towards life - what's yours? Perhaps it's time to go back to the cross.

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org (last updated April 8, 2008)
http://bobkraft.multiply.com (Latest: I love it! The Church)

"Does it make sense to believe in miracles?"

I have often prayed with tennis players and their families.  I go to a church that believes in miracles and prays as if they believe "that all things are possible with God". 

I can think back to instances of my own prayers for others such as knowing the person had cancer and then passed away within a year; passing away suddenly within a few months from cancer; undergoing chemotherapy for cancer now; and another in the later stages of Multiple Sclerosis. But on the other hand, my own mother was healed of cancer and a lifelong illness after our prayer together and that is the greatest miracle that I personally know first hand.

What I do know about miracles is that is that I have met thousands of people that have been totally and significantly changed as the person accepted 'Christ' as their personal Saviour.  I have experienced many events in my life that I know were miracles to me personally.  Several times I have gone to a Grand Slam tennis event and could hardly walk for weeks beforehand because my back had gone out, yet on the very day that I arrived and needed to go to the tournament to minister to others, the pain disappeared.

I have never seen a blind person healed, the deaf hear or the dead returned to life.  Does that make me have less faith?  No.  Does that make me to have been in the wrong location to see it?  Maybe.  Does that mean I do not believe?  No.  I earnestly desire to see such events.  What I do know is that, if I, my family, or my friend were deathly ill, I want to believe in miracles.  I also am prepared to move on if a miracle does not happen. You see, faith and prayer are ours, but the healing, or lack of healing, is in God's power only.

During Easter, Christians celebrate the fact that God raised Jesus Christ from the dead.  I have not seen it.  I have no proof outside of what is written in the Bible and have experienced in my own life. But I want to believe--that is called faith or as I well understand to an unbelieving world -- foolishness.  For me; I chose faith.

Weekly Verse - March 31, 2008

MONDAY:  For though a righteous man falls seven times, he rises again. - Proverbs 24:16
Failure is not final.  Turn failure into your teacher and your greatest defeats into learning experiences.

TUESDAY:  The steps of a good man are directed by the Lord. He delights in each step they take. If they fall it isn't fatal, for the Lord holds them with his hand. - Psalm 37:23,24
Some of the world's greatest successes were once labelled failures.  The only 'up and down' that you should know is getting down to pray, then getting up in the strength of the Lord to go out and win.

WEDNESDAY:  He (God) hath sent Me (Christ) to heal the brokenhearted...to set at liberty them that are bruised. - Luke 4:18
in the Bible, Tamar was King David's daughter. She was also a rape victim. If you're like her, Jesus said He came to heal the brokenhearted and to set at liberty them that are bruised.  Through His (Christ's) blood, you'll recover the loss you've suffered at the hands of your abuser.  You'll get back all that was stolen from you. God will heal your broken places and rebuild your self-esteem.

THURSDAY:  And I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me. - Ezekiel 22:30
Moving God on behalf of others.  Miracles happen when somebody "stands in the gap."

FRIDAY:  He that overcomes shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. - Revelation 21:7
'Successful failures' are people who use their setbacks to bring them out on top. You successfully fail when it stirs you up to keep on trying.

SATURDAY:  However, I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me. - Acts 20:24
If your number one goal is to survive, you're no longer free to make the right decisions. You'll keep doing things based on what feels good or what's acceptable to others, rather than doing what God wants you to do.

SUNDAY:  I am crucified with Christ. - Galatians 2:20
Do you talk a lot about being faithful to the church, but very little about being fruitful for God. You can bring forth Godly fruit only if you are willing to lay down your own desires and accomplishments.

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com  (Latest: Does it make sense to believe in miracles?)
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com

Easter holiday, what would a 'missionary' who happens to be a tennis coach do?

Blog archives: here

Easter Friday:  Morning -Family movie with Bob, Mia and Ashley who is 6 years old: Half priced at $4US each at 10am and saw "Polar Express" followed by lunch at "Deli France", an attempt to create a Parisian French Bistro in an Oriental city.  Afternoon - Mia and Ashley went home and I went to the Golden Arcade in Sham Shui Po.  Looking for a power converter from 120V (US) to 220V (Hong Kong) for our recently brought bread maker that came from the USA. Evening:  Husband and wife movie:  Every Friday we have our own night, which is very much like the five years that we dated prior to our marriage in 1997.  Went to see 'Charlie Wilson's War' and had dinner afterwards at a Chinese diner.

Easter Saturday, We stayed home all day in Tai Po and played with the kids, Ashley and Joshua (19 months old)  How many times can you say "go get the ball" to a 19 month old in a one hour period?

Easter Sunday, Ashley and I went to our church in Sha Tin.  Mia and Joshua stayed home.  Deadly virus alert in Hong Kong for children under 5 years old and we agreed to keep Joshua at home.  Family lunch at a Thai restaurant, excellent and reasonably priced.  Walked around "Tao Fung Shan Christian Retreat Center" famous for its large white cross that can be seen on a hill top across the city of Sha Tin.

Easter Monday:  Flower show on Hong Kong Island at Victoria Park.  Victoria Park is transformed twice a year into a focal point for blooming flowers and costs about $2US per person to enter.

Tuesday: Tennis!

The other sites:
dailyverse.multiply.com (up coming blog later this week: What is a miracle?)
tennisministry.org

My own defining moments - My shoes

My own defining moments:  My Mother was never home growing up > My earliest memories of visiting Mom were in the insane asylum and remained so until my adulthood > Attempted molestation by a teacher and boss as a pre-teenager > Every summer living with a different family as a teenager.

A different time in my life; helping others...Listening to prisoners in jail singing in unison 'Amazing Grace' (listen to the song) each behind a locked door - 1985. (the unreachable) > Staying in a the home of a missionary in Daveo, Philippines and the family being murdered for their own faith the morning after I left - 1986. (the ultimate sacrifice) > Philippine business and government leaders be driven to hear me speak in Manila about having a Presidential prayer breakfast and faith - 1986.  (the unreachable) >  My Mother healed of terminal cancer and mental illness instantly after a prayer of faith and remains so twenty years later. - 1988 (miraculous) > China government arresting my staff and confiscating almost everything I own as I shared the Gospel message to the Chinese. - 1996 (provision) > In ministry I usually wear tennis shoes - Now. (joy)

God reaches the unreachable, offers protection, gives the ultimate sacrifice, provides provision, is miraculous and brings joy. 

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. - 2 Corinthians 1:3

Some suggestions on how to deal with issues.  1.  Write it down and be specific! Until you can see it, you won't know the symptoms from the cause. 2. Divide the problem into parts. Take care of the part you can right away; now you're getting it 'down to size.'3. List people and ideas who might be able to help. It takes humility to say, "I don't know" and ask for assistance. But go ahead and do it. Don't let pride keep you stuck in the problem.  To read more about defining moments for athletes at 'The Daily Verse Blog'.

Defining moments in ones life.

All athletes go through issues in their lives, as all others do.  Issues such as suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, alcohol and drug abuse, addictions such as gambling or sexual promiscuity, the breakdown of close family relationships and divorce are just a few areas that the youth of today face in increasing measure.

These are what I call defining moments in a person's life.  Issues such as these are destructive and can be fatal; they need to be dealt with before a person can start to move forward in life.  Once acknowledged and discussed, the healing process can begin.  For an athlete, these issues impact the ability to have sustainable peak performance in sports.  It is often overlooked that the emotional makeup of a person is part of what makes them human beings with feelings.

Sport psychologists tend to focus on achieving peak performances totally related to sports activities.  Psychologists tend to focus on mental and emotional issues unrelated to sports.  Spiritual advisers tend to focus on issues related to the soul and spirit.  It is very important to recognize that all three are important and must work together and in agreement.

In my personal opinion, what is most important is that a person has a goal of not only achieving peak performances in sports, but helping others with what you have gone through yourself.  In this way you are made stronger, contribute to a greater good than just yourself and continually reinforce positive aspects in your life.

The Bible teaches us that once you are healed and strong in those areas of your pain, you can help those going through similar situations.  Helping others with what you yourself have been helped with is a good 'target and goal' to shoot for.
 
He comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. - 2 Corinthians 1:4

I have written about my own defining points at my personal blog at Bob's Site blog.  This allows you to understand one person's truth, honesty and healing in life.

Weekly Verse March 24, 2008

Read the Verse archive click here.

MONDAY:  Your (God's) people shall be willing in the day of Your power. - Psalm 110:3
When God is truly at work in your life, you'll find yourself willing to go and willing to give more than ever. It won't be a struggle, it'll be a delight.

TUESDAY:  And Moses spoke to all the congregation...saying...Take from among you an offering to the Lord: who is of a willing heart let him bring it...and they came. - Exodus 35:4,5,21
At the building of the tabernacle, the people brought so much that Moses had to tell them to stop.

WEDNESDAY:  Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. - Matthew 7:7
I wonder how many problems you have given up on just because somebody told you, "There's no solution"?

THURSDAY:  I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me. - Philippians 4:13
The important thing to remember is that when you fail - 'fail forward.'

FRIDAY:  A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. - Proverbs 15:1
You can't enter the next season of your life with integrity if you don't exit this season right. Close the door gently, for you just might need to walk back through it again some day.

SATURDAY:  Lo, I (Christ) am with you always, even to the end of the world. - Matthew 28:20
Close the door in God's timing. Go because He tells you to, not because somebody else does.

SUNDAY:  The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord. - Psalm 37:23
Be encouraged today, you're walking a prepared path. When God closes one door, He always opens another.

The Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com

Celebrating our 10,000th site visitor

I am so thankful to the precious souls who have visited the websites.   And I am thankful to the partners who have helped out throughout the years.  Now would be a good time for us all to take a look and celebrate together.

On March 11th, 2008 the website (www.tennisministry.org) passed its 10,000th individual site visitor since October 26, 2006. The site was set up in 1998 and a visitor counter began in 2006.

The top ten nations/cities with the number of individuals reading the site...
Nations - USA: 4,776; China 1,910; United Kingdom 513; Australia 394; India 242; France 208; Canada 193; Cote D'Ivoire 134; Philippines 92
Cities - Hong Kong 845; Beijing 388; Washington DC 168; Los Angles 63; Houston 61; London 60; Sydney 58; New York 40; Paris 39; Hyderabad 39

The 10/40 countries...
China 429; India 242, Pakistan 90; Thailand 22; Israel 17; Malta 15; United Arab Emirates 14; Turkey 11; Iran 9; Vietnam 9; Saudi Arabia 8, Senegal 8; Indonesia 7; Cyprus 6; Oman 5; Lebanon 5; Liberia 5; Morocco 4; Gambia 4; Bahrain 4; Kuwait 4 ;Jordan 4;   Ethiopia 4; Bangladesh 3; Myanmar (Burma)  3;   Nepal 3; Benin 3;  Algeria 2; Tajikistan 2; Qatar 2; Sudan 1; Mali 1; Syria 1; Macao 1; Afghanistan 1; Sudan; Macao 1; Afghanistan 1; Sudan 1

Often these people from these nations do not have the opportunity to hear/read/see the message of Christ even once their lifetime.  Our site offers the opportunity in the native language.  Read more on the 10/40 here.   

Other interesting information...
3,335 visitors to Bob's site

7,653 visitors to The Daily Verse site

Sites set up October 22, 2007

 If you would like to you me and become a partner in anyway for the furtherance of this Gospel, please feel free to send me an email  at tmi@tennisministry.org

Weekly Verse March 17, 2008

Read the Verse archive click here.

MONDAY:  Able to do exceeding abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. - Ephesians 3:20

Ask God to give you a vision of who you are. Then ask Him to show you who He is.

TUESDAY:  Lift up your eyes from where you are and look north and south, east and west. All the land that you see I will give to you. - Genesis 13:14-15

If you can 'see it' God will give it to you. He didn't say it would be easy or cheap, but if you're willing to pay the price, it can be yours!

WEDNESDAY:  But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear to myself.  - Acts 20:24

Why do some people with huge problems whistle through life, while others with smaller problems are constantly in despair? Because your problem is not your problem - your attitude is!

THURSDAY:  We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. - 2 Corinthians 4:8

If you're looking for a problem-free world, forget it. It's the battles that produce the victories and the victors!

FRIDAY:  And He (Christ) laid His hands on her: and immediately she was made straight, and glorified God. And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indignation, because that Jesus had healed on the Sabbath day. - Luke 13:13-14

When God delivers you, don't stop what you're doing to answer your accusers or expose yourself to their moods and allow my attitude to be influenced by negative opinions or spirits. Just keep praising Him and you'll come out on top.

SATURDAY: Although He (Christ) was a son, He learned obedience from what He suffered. - Hebrews 5:8

Two people looking through prison bars, one can see vast emptiness, the other vast expanse of the stars.  Your attitude can change and transform a miserable experience into a highly rewarding one.  Ask God to help you with your attitude today!

SUNDAY:  Casting all your care upon Him; for He (Christ) cares for you. - 1 Peter 5:7

If something is important to you, it's important to Him.

The Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com

My vocations, a 'great ride'.

I arrived back from Australian Open in early February and had to organize my tennis classes.  A lot of pressure to get it all set up in a short period of time.  Having done this for almost 40 years, I am aware of how to do it and the length of time that I have to work with.  Every year since 1972, I have had full classes.

Ministry is something like this.  The more years that you have been involved, the more you know what to expect.  You have developed contacts, you know "time frames" to get things done and you are not surprised by the unexpected.  I have had a 'great ride' in ministry.

In a sense I have had two careers, both successful.  I have been blessed.

I just returned from the USA from a short trip.  Working on combining these two great vocations together.  1.  Developing contacts for a future student ministry for tennis players (and possibility golf players).  2.  Developing the land acquisition for this.  3.  And spending time with Mother, Sister, Aunts and Uncle and a few touring pro tennis players. I have been blessed.

Walk in my shoes.

The others that we meet do not have the same background as ourselves.  Many pro tour tennis players are from the countries such as Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Latvia, Belarus, Slovakia, China, Czech Republic, Thailand, Indonesia, Korea, Japan, India, Morocco, South Africa, Colombia, Brazil, Chile and on and on..).  They are not just people who have a different story but a unique culture, language and family situation. 

There is an old American Indian saying, "Before I judge a man, let me first walk a mile in his moccasins (shoes)."

Many players have come through some very difficult circumstances to get to where they are (the top of the tennis world).  Can you imagine getting to the top any profession with little or no support from others except your parents.  This includes but is not limited to:  Finances - to travel (and yes, they were often hungry), visas (to this day, they have difficulty with traveling and perhaps even have to pay gratuitous money to local officials).  War - national occurrences now or the recent past.  Family -members lost their lives in the wars or because of a lack of health care.  Tennis  - Few tennis courts and equipment that are often not affordable.

What we see today of someone is often not even close to the 'full' story.  Sympathize, be understanding and realize that each person has a story behind that face.  You do not reach the top of anything without great sacrifice.  Be understanding, make suggestions and don't be a critic until you have walked in that persons path.

Jesus said "Follow me“ (Mark 1:17) and He did not say "Be me".  You will then have compassion, be a friend and understand what He did.

This is the last of the series on how to reach others with the Good News. Read each at these links:  1.  Compassion  2.  Friendship  3.  Walk in my shoes.

Daily Verse - March 3, 2008

MONDAY:  A very present help. - Psalm 46:1
There's only one way to overcome your past: learn from it. Let the very thing that others thought would destroy you, develop you into the person God has called you to be.

TUESDAY:  There is an appointed time for everything. - Ecclesiastes 3:1
Time management is not hyperventilating with calendars and stopwatches. It's learning how precious one hour is.

WEDNESDAY:  My (Christ) yoke is easy. - Matthew 11:30
You always have enough time to do all that God wants you to do. If you don't, you're involved in things He never gave you to do. Get rid of them!

THURSDAY:  Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I (God) am doing a new thing! - Isaiah 43:18-19
It's dangerous to assume that you'll keep getting from life only what you've got before. God has wonderful ways of giving back purpose and meaning to our lives when we've lost it.

FRIDAY:  Allow me not to leave you or to return from following after you: for were you go, I will go; and where you live, I will live: your people shall be my people, and your God my God. - Ruth 1:16
If you're very family-oriented, it's easy to build all your relationships within the family. Then, when circumstances change, you feel lost and alone.  There are bonds that are stronger than blood: we can call them 'God-bonds.

SATURDAY:  Blessed is the man who listens to me (God). - Proverbs 8:34
A perfect day begins by hearing the voice of God.

SUNDAY:  Great peace have they which love Your (God) law: and nothing shall offend them. - Psalm 119:165
Hear the voice of God and you will not require the praise of others, nor will you be seduced by their flattery. His words will set you free to love others and lean only on Him.

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com

Daily Verse, February 25, 2008

Daily verse archive here.
MONDAY:  He who wins souls is wise. - Proverbs 11:30
You're a vital part of every soul that's won and every life that's touched, when you stand by a man of God or a ministry He has raised up.

TUESDAY:  Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. - Daniel 12:3
You'll shine like the stars! Now there's a different definition of stardom - a true one!

WEDNESDAY:  But the godly shall flourish like palm trees. - Psalm 92:12
Did you know that a palm tree produces its biggest harvest of fruit in its last years? Rejoice, that's you God's talking about!

THURSDAY:  Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don't get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. - Matthew 6:34
The only real question that matters, I ask, is what have you done today?

FRIDAY:  Do not boast about tomorrow, for you do not know what a day may bring forth. - Proverbs 27:1
We spend so much of our lives worrying about yesterday and tomorrow. Yet one's buried and the other ones unborn!

SATURDAY:  This is the day which the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24
Get out of the grandstand; you can win only if you play the game.
 
SUNDAY:  From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of Heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful men lay hold of it. - Matthew 11:12
Seize this day with all its blessings and its challenges and live every moment of it.

Websites:
http://dailyverse.multiply.com
http://www.tennisministry.org
http://bobkraft.multiply.com