www.youtube.com/tennisministry or www.tennisministry.org Bob Kraft talks about his own experiences and give ideas on how a person can reach out to tennis players.
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Prayer Center for Tennis Missions
March 23, 2009 at 5:10 pm
>While in Saint Louis, Missouri, which is located smack in the middle of the population center of the US - I will spend time looking for land to put up a prayer and missionary training base for tennis ministry. I will personally use it a few months out of the year but it will be available to others to use year round to pray or help to renovate it. It may be one acre, it may be five or even twenty - but it will be what I can afford with cash in hand at the moment of purchase.
I have been looking for over ten years and I feel the time is very close to the actual property becoming a reality.
Many students across the USA want to be
encouraged on how to use their tennis for reaching others for Christ and they also want to know and understand how to live a God given life.
My vision is within twenty years to see a place that people can pray, stay at a place that they can learn from pastors and missionaries who have unselfishly served others and have the opportunity to play tennis. Read more on the trip Saint Louis, Missouri at Bob's Site.
Please pray for this trip.
Saint Louis, Missouri
March 23, 2009 at 4:45 pm
St. Louis, Missouri USA - I arrive Sunday March 29th. Looking forward to staying with my Uncle and Aunt and then traveling by car the two hours to see my 82 year old Mother and my two sisters in central Illinois.
While I was at the Australian Open in January, I received a phone call from my sister saying that the Doctor had told her to gather the immediate family around the bedside as Mom was not expected to live through the night. Miraculously she recovered. I look forward to see her as being on a foreign mission field (Hong Kong) for close to twenty years, I truly have missed spending time with my immediate family.
Weekly Verse - March 23, 2009
March 23, 2009 at 3:44 am
MONDAY: Do not let this Book of the Law (The Bible) depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night…be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be…successful. - Joshua 1:8
Your attitude needs to be constantly checked and adjusted. Have you checked yours lately?
TUESDAY: The God of all grace, who called you…after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. - 1 Peter 5:10
Don’t let what’s going on around you today sabotage what God’s doing within you. Your outlook is usually colored by the present.
WEDNESDAY: Consider Him (Christ) who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. - Hebrews 12:3
Run in your life until you get your second wind! The first part may be painful, but the last part will be joyful as you cross the finish line.
THURSDAY: Every valley shall be exalted and every mountain and hill shall be made low: and the crooked shall be made straight and the rough places plain…for the mouth of the Lord has spoken it. - Isaiah 40:4,5
Today is only temporal. Whatever you’re going through at the moment, expect a turn around.
FRIDAY: The sun rose above as he passed Peniel, and he was limping. - Genesis 32:31 Jacob was a runner. Finally, when he could run away from people or situations no more, he came face to face with God at Peniel. For many of us, that’s the way it is or was. One thing and one thing only - who’s in charge of your life God or yourself? When God subdued Jacob and knocked his hip out of joint, He was saying, "Your running days are over. Your limp will be a constant reminder of your total dependency on Me."
SATURDAY: I am focusing all my energies on this one thing. - Philippians 3:13
Anyone who’s ever made a difference started with a dream that eventually became their life’s obsession. Mine is to preach and teach God’s Word from the Bible into the hands of every tennis player that I can, during my lifetime!
SUNDAY: Don't let anyone think little of you because. - 1 Timothy 4:12
"How can I know my dream is of God?" Because it will always bless and benefit others. If your dream is to live in a castle and accumulate a fortune for yourself - don’t count on God to go into business with you. Latest blogs (click on the link)
A great 'Hong Kong' week (the short version)
MUSIC VIDEO: 'We are the Reason" David Meece -English and Dutchtv subtitles 1991 (4/4)
A great 'Hong Kong' week (the short version)
March 17, 2009 at 6:40 pm>This week has been great. But it almost always is for me!
1 day a week (Sunday) - I went to a fabulous church service that I enjoy very much. It is especially great to see my young children enjoying it.
Elim Full Gospel Church located at City One, Sha Tin.
1 day a week (Sunday) - As a family we go out to Sunday brunch.
1 day a week (Wednesday) - I attend my evening church house cell group with 8 others from multiple nations.
1 day a week (Friday) - I attend a evening prayer meeting with about 30 others at my church.
1 day a week - I meet my good friend, David who is a Bible College professor and we get into a several hour discussion on theological issues.
3 days a week (Monday, Tuesday, Friday) I meet with my co-worker, Ryan Chan who is a native of Hong Kong and we plan the ministry and coach tennis together.
5 times a week (Monday to Saturday) I coach tennis a few hours a week.
Isn't life great!
The latest post: MUSIC VIDEO: "It's all Yours' by Steven Curtis Chapman
Seeing good in all circumstances - Philippines - deaths of humanitarian aid workers
March 3, 2009 at 1:25 pmWhat does 'Seeing good in all circumstances' have to do with tennis ministry. As a tennis player and coach, I go everywhere and carry my tennis racket and a few balls...these are a part of me as my right and left hand are parts of my body. I try and use this gift of tennis that I have to help others and any trip that I take is no different whether I was a young unmarried adult or today's middle-age married person...and yes sometimes I or those I am with are at risk of being harmed for helping others.
In 1985 I went to Daveo City - a town in southern Philippines. I went to feed the poor, help the sick and encourage others in an area that saw death on a daily basis.
Alas after seven days - it was time to leave Daveo City and return to Manila. Saying goodbye to the two Filipino house helpers who had taken such good care of our team of five - we departed for the afternoon flight. From that moment on - we did not know much about what happened until weeks later. The New Zealand family whose house we had stayed in returned that night from a trip abroad. The next afternoon the wife, the daughter and the two domestic helpers - all who were Christians - were murdered in the house. I do not know if they were targeted for being Christians? What I do know is that they were doing work in helping those in dire need of food, health care and concern, the husband was spared as he was out of the house and our group of five who had just left the day before - were spared.
I gave tennis clinics and played against the top player (yes, that was in my younger days) and shared the love and meaning of Christ with those hundreds who watched - this is religious freedom. I gave my personal testimony about how my life was changed by trusting in Christ to businessman groups mainly made up of Muslim's - I spoke as to my own life and it was welcomed and well received. I encouraged and helped the Christians who lived there - could I do nothing less to good, kind, hardworking people. We encouraged and helped all who lived in this area - all people of all beliefs deserve loving kindness. We gave food to those who needed it and we spoke to those who asked us to speak - willingly, welcomed and without compulsion.
I personally choose to not harm and care for others - as by His example Christ loved and cared for others.
Weekly Verse - March 9, 2009
March 3, 2009 at 3:46 am
MONDAY: Pray at all times and on every occasion in the power of the Holy Spirit. - Ephesians 6:18
As you learn to pray that way, your complexes will vanish and you'll grow in confidence. Your past failures will be dealt a decisive blow, you'll learn how to forget what's behind and reach for what's ahead.
TUESDAY: Jude says we build ourselves up as we pray in the Holy Spirit. - Jude 20
When this happens, every weak area in your structure will be braced and fortified, then you'll be able to stand strong.
WEDNESDAY: If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. - 1 Corinthians 15:19
There's more! It's called heaven and it's "better by far" than anything you've ever known in this life.
THURSDAY: I will behold Your (Christ) face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with Your likeness. - Psalm 17:15
Can you imagine serving the One (God) in Heaven you love perfectly, doing the thing you enjoy pre-eminently and doing it in a body that's forever energised? That's heaven!
FRIDAY: For when the way is rough, your patience has a chance to grow. So let it. - James 1:3-4
You can always tell when you're on the road to success - its uphill all the way."
SATURDAY: Love never fails. - 1 Corinthians 13:8
Love is not the slave of your emotions or the victim of your circumstances - it's the servant of your will! That's right; love is a decision.
SUNDAY: This is My (Christ) commandment, that you love one another, as I have loved you. - John 15:12
Now, if He commands it - then He'll enable you to do it! Be patient. It will take you time to get there, but anything that's worthwhile is worth working for. Right?
Recent Blog's Online click on the link:
Seeing good in all circumstances - Tsunami - Lest we forget.
MUSIC VIDEO: Jaci Velasquez solo tu live concert Guatemala (Spanish)
TENNIS VIDEO: 2000 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Agassi def. Sampras Semifinal
Weekly Verse - March 2, 2009
February 22, 2009 at 6:07 pm
MONDAY: The steps of the godly are directed by the Lord. He delights in every detail of their lives. Though they stumble, they will not fall [stay down], for the Lord holds them by the hand. - Psalm 37:23,24
And by God's grace, you can come back too. Take His hand right now and let Him give you a new start.
TUESDAY: So that, if any of them do not believe the Word (The Bible, Christ), they may be won over without words. - 1 Peter 3:1
They may never say a word, but sometimes your kindness in the face of criticism and your courage in the face of adversity will impact them more than all the preaching you'll ever do. A winning lifestyle.
WEDNESDAY: The joy of the Lord is your strength. - Nehemiah 8:10 </span>
The most powerful testimony is a life you can't explain without God. One that excels because of what's on the inside. Go out and live like that today!
THURSDAY: My future is in Your (God's) hands. - Psalm 31:15
God has taught me to keep living the life I now have, while I am waiting for the things that are in my heart to come to pass. Learn to enjoy where you are, while you're waiting to get to where you want to be.
FRIDAY: In due season we shall reap, if we faint not. - Galatians 6:9
"Due season" is when God knows you're ready, not when you think you are. He has set appointments to accomplish certain things in your life, so you might as well settle down and wait patiently, because that's when it will happen - and not before.
SATURDAY: Slowly, steadily, surely, the time approaches when the vision will be fulfilled. - Habakkuk 2:3
Never surrender your dream! Just as surely as a palm tree produces its greatest harvest in the final years of its life, so God will visit you again!
SUNDAY: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit. - Ephesians 6:18
When you are at a low ebb spiritually, you're susceptible to everything that comes your way. PRAY.
Latest posts:Seeing good in all circumstances - Tsunami - Lest we forget.
Facebook December 2008 archive
Real Simple or real and simple. - Australian
December 29, 2008 at 6:34 pm
I was praying during much of December, as I do each year asking "God, what would you want me to do for this upcoming year?"
It came Sunday morning December 27th - 'Words of encouragement and Words of inspiration' - to the tennis players.
Nothing too deep or theological just 'real'.
The best thing is to just go up and encourage another in what ever way is presented and as a Christian the inspiration comes from the Words of the Bible.
Sounds pretty simple and easy. That is just what I have found to be the most profound and workable - simple, easy, real, straight forward and not difficult to understand</span>.
I leave Hong Kong January 1st, 2009 at 11:30pm ready for that mission statement to Australia arriving first at The Hopman Cup in Perth - 'Words of encouragement and Words of inspiration'
I have the material and the words at the ready!
Weekly Verse - December 22, 2008
December 29, 2008 at 5:26 pmMONDAY: I (God) have commanded a widow woman there to sustain you. - 1 King 17:9
God uses ravens and widows and whatever He likes - so stop trying to second-guess Him.
TUESDAY: Since your steps are already ordered of the Lord, why are you trying to figure it out? - Psalm 37:23
If you're going through the fire today - rejoice, God's just separating the gold from the impurities in your character.
WEDNESDAY: But speak the things which become sound doctrine. - Titus 2:1
If you have no doctrine, you're at the mercy of everybody else's.
THURSDAY: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage - with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. - 2 Timothy 4:2-3
When your feelings won't sustain you, your beliefs will, for one is built on emotion, the other is founded on the eternal Word of God as found in the Bible.
FRIDAY: How much more will your Father in Heaven give good gifts to those who ask Him! - Matthew 7:11
The cross of Christ proves how much you matter to God!
SATURDAY: He (God) that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with them also freely give us all things? - Romans 8:32
If it's in God's Word and it's God's will as found in the Bible - refuse to settle for less.
SUNDAY: One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after. - Psalm 27:4
If you're walking in obedience and seeking to please Him, then you have the right to be confident.
MUSIC VIDEO: Jaci Velasquez solo tu live concert Guatemala (Spanish)
TENNIS VIDEO: 1993 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Seles def. Graf in final
TENNIS VIDEO: 1971 AUSTRALIAN OPEN - Ken Rosewall def. Arthur Ashe
MUSIC VIDEO: Michael W. Smith - Live BRAZIL (English and Portuguese) I am Free with lyrics
MUSIC VIDEO: Twila Paris - Warrior is a Child / Do I Trust You (lyrics)
Free hugs for stressed out tennis players.
What they never taught me in Kindergarten.
Weekly Verse - December 15, 2008
December 29, 2008 at 5:22 pmMONDAY: Say to those with fearful hearts, Be strong, do not fear; your God will come...to save you. - Isaiah 35:4Either your situation is subject to the Word of God in the Bible, or the Word is subject to your situation. Once you make that decision, you'll know clearly what to do next!
TUESDAY: And there shall in no way enter into it any thing that...makes a lie. - Revelation 21:27Lies, false impressions and other things - When you create an impression that you know is not true, the Bible calls it "making a lie."
WEDNESDAY: No one else dared join them (Ananias and Sapphira). - Acts 5:13 When they - Ananias and Sapphira - tried to create false impressions about their giving, God slew them - right in the middle of a church service.
THURSDAY: You has not lied to men, but to God. - Acts 5:4 Now that puts a whole new slant on things - wouldn't you say?
FRIDAY: The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in men who are truthful. -Proverbs 12:22 A liar's biggest problem is that he can't believe anybody else; the way you live your life - you judge your neighbor.
SATURDAY: Now bring all the people of Israel to Mount Carmel. - 1 Kings 18:19 At some point in your spiritual journey, you've got to learn that your God is a covenant and promise-making, covenant and promise-keeping God. To do it, He'll dry up rivers, make axe-heads swim and order fish into a net, He'll keep His promise to you come what may.
SUNDAY: I (God) have commanded the ravens to feed you (Elijah) there. - 1 Kings 17:4 Had Elijah gone anywhere else, God wouldn't have met his need, for a covenant is two-sided. You must fulfill your part! Take a moment and ask yourself honestly, "Have I? Am I where God wants me to be?"
TENNIS VIDEO: 1971 AUSTRALIAN OPEN - Ken Rosewall , Arthur Ashe Interviews
MUSIC VIDEO: Michael W. Smith - Live BRAZIL (English and Portuguese) I am Free (lyrics)
MUSIC VIDEO: Twila Paris - Warrior is a Child / Do I Trust You (lyrics)
MUSIC VIDEO: Wayne Watson - Friend of a Wounded Heart (lyrics)
BLOG: What they never taught me in Kindergarten.
BLOG: Celebrating 10 years 1998-2008
BLOG: Work alongside such people
TUESDAY: And there shall in no way enter into it any thing that...makes a lie. - Revelation 21:27Lies, false impressions and other things - When you create an impression that you know is not true, the Bible calls it "making a lie."
WEDNESDAY: No one else dared join them (Ananias and Sapphira). - Acts 5:13 When they - Ananias and Sapphira - tried to create false impressions about their giving, God slew them - right in the middle of a church service.
THURSDAY: You has not lied to men, but to God. - Acts 5:4 Now that puts a whole new slant on things - wouldn't you say?
FRIDAY: The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in men who are truthful. -Proverbs 12:22 A liar's biggest problem is that he can't believe anybody else; the way you live your life - you judge your neighbor.
SATURDAY: Now bring all the people of Israel to Mount Carmel. - 1 Kings 18:19 At some point in your spiritual journey, you've got to learn that your God is a covenant and promise-making, covenant and promise-keeping God. To do it, He'll dry up rivers, make axe-heads swim and order fish into a net, He'll keep His promise to you come what may.
SUNDAY: I (God) have commanded the ravens to feed you (Elijah) there. - 1 Kings 17:4 Had Elijah gone anywhere else, God wouldn't have met his need, for a covenant is two-sided. You must fulfill your part! Take a moment and ask yourself honestly, "Have I? Am I where God wants me to be?"
Latest posts:
TENNIS VIDEO: 1969 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Rod Laver def. Tony RocheTENNIS VIDEO: 1971 AUSTRALIAN OPEN - Ken Rosewall , Arthur Ashe Interviews
MUSIC VIDEO: Michael W. Smith - Live BRAZIL (English and Portuguese) I am Free (lyrics)
MUSIC VIDEO: Twila Paris - Warrior is a Child / Do I Trust You (lyrics)
MUSIC VIDEO: Wayne Watson - Friend of a Wounded Heart (lyrics)
BLOG: What they never taught me in Kindergarten.
BLOG: Celebrating 10 years 1998-2008
BLOG: Work alongside such people
Weekly Verse - December 8, 2008
December 29, 2008 at 5:18 pmMONDAY: Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. - Romans 10:17
Today, rise up in faith, take authority over your circumstances and begin to believe God.
TUESDAY: A man's spirit sustains him in sickness. - Proverbs 18:14
Don't just get the Word into your head; get it into your spirit.
WEDNESDAY: You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it’s useless. Cultivate God-confidence. - 1 Corinthians 10:12
You belong in the company of those who are strong where you're weak.
THURSDAY: If we walk in the light, as He (Christ) is in the light, we have fellowship with one another. - 1 John 1:7
But if we walk in the dark, we walk alone, and the very areas we try hardest to hide are the places the enemy will always attack us.
FRIDAY: Share each other’s troubles and problems, and so obey our Lord’s command. - Galatians 6:2
Stop seeing others as adversaries, and start seeing them as assets. Without them you're vulnerable.
SATURDAY: Cast out the bondwoman and her son. - Galatians 4:30
Good ideas that aren't God ideas can really complicate our lives. It's time to deal with your past and to clean out your closet!
SUNDAY: Tear down your father's altar to Baal...build a proper kind of altar to the Lord. - Judges 6:25-26
When a pattern of evil passes from one generation to the next, God calls it a "stronghold." God heals dysfunctional families and the healing can begin with you. Lay hands on your children and declare that the past will not invade the present and that God's blessings to your life will flow through you to them. Do it and see what happens.
Weekly Verse - December 1, 2008
December 29, 2008 at 5:15 pmMONDAY: Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the Lord delivers him out of them all. - Psalm 34:19 Can you name one - just one person - who was greatly used by God who didn't endure hardship or trials?
TUESDAY: In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I (Jesus) have overcome the world. - John 16:33 Sometimes it's not the size of the problems, but the sheer number of them that wears you down.
WEDNESDAY: You (God) prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. - Psalm 23:5 We all want the table; we just don't want the trouble that comes with it! But the truth is, you can't have one without the other!
THURSDAY: Yes, be bold and strong! Banish fear and doubt! For remember, the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9 Instead of building a fire in your fireplace, build one in your heart.
FRIDAY: For whoever wants to save his life will lose it. - Luke 9:24 Just because you're near the top of the hill doesn't mean you're past your peak. Get up and get going, for God has things for you to do today!
SATURDAY: Say to those with fearful hearts, 'Be strong, do not fear; your God will come...to save you.'- Isaiah 35:4 Faith is not the absence of fear, it's the courage to act in the presence of it, and believe God in spite of it.
SUNDAY: This one thing I do. - Phillipians 3:13 The question is, what should faith do? When you know that - start doing it, and keep on doing it until fear loses its grip on you.
TUESDAY: In the world you shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I (Jesus) have overcome the world. - John 16:33 Sometimes it's not the size of the problems, but the sheer number of them that wears you down.
WEDNESDAY: You (God) prepares a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. - Psalm 23:5 We all want the table; we just don't want the trouble that comes with it! But the truth is, you can't have one without the other!
THURSDAY: Yes, be bold and strong! Banish fear and doubt! For remember, the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9 Instead of building a fire in your fireplace, build one in your heart.
FRIDAY: For whoever wants to save his life will lose it. - Luke 9:24 Just because you're near the top of the hill doesn't mean you're past your peak. Get up and get going, for God has things for you to do today!
SATURDAY: Say to those with fearful hearts, 'Be strong, do not fear; your God will come...to save you.'- Isaiah 35:4 Faith is not the absence of fear, it's the courage to act in the presence of it, and believe God in spite of it.
SUNDAY: This one thing I do. - Phillipians 3:13 The question is, what should faith do? When you know that - start doing it, and keep on doing it until fear loses its grip on you.
Weekly Verse - November 24, 2008
December 29, 2008 at 5:12 pmMONDAY: I waited patiently for the Lord; He turned to me and heard my cry. - Psalm 40:1
There are times when God doesn't speak, but there's never a time when He doesn't hear!
TUESDAY: My soul is cast down within me: therefore will I remember You (God) - Psalm 42:6
He sees the broken heart behind the brave look of determination.
WEDNESDAY: Surely, goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. - Psalm 23:6
God's goodness is guaranteed!
THURSDAY: But let patience have her perfect work, that you may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. - James 1:4
There's a work going on in you right now.
FRIDAY: I am expecting the Lord to rescue me again, so that once again I will see His goodness to me. - Psalm 27:13
If you're God's child, always look for the best!
SATURDAY: Himself (Christ) took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses. - Matthew 8:17
Jesus is looking at your difficulty right now, and Hes saying, Here, Ill take that!"
SUNDAY: Examine me, God, from head to foot, order your battery of tests. Make sure I'm fit inside and out. - Psalm 26:2
Re-examine what you're doing.
Mexico - Christmas means different things to different people, Tamales, corn and coffee.
December 15, 2008 at 8:08 am
On the drive to Mexico City, I can never forget the orphanage in Monterey with 100 orphans and 3 Christian workers... the kids just loved to hold to you. Then the seven hour drive into the mountains and sleeping that night on the very hard and cold floor of a mountain church... with another group of orphans waking us to hot tamales and corn served with steaming hot coffee for breakfast. For sure to those orphans Christmas meant different things than to us...
My first mission trip was to an earthquake ravaged Mexico City in December 1985. A magnitude 8.1 earthquake struck on 19 September 1985 at 7:19am, causing the deaths of about 10,000 people. I saw the coffins in the streets and buildings flattened like pancakes. Sleeping on the floor on an unfinished hospital with no hot water, I passed out food and shared the Gospel message to those Mexicans who were in great need. I am so thankful as that changed my life from desiring to glorify myself through tennis to wanting to help people and glorify Christ.
Yes, I was a warrior but I also felt very much like a child myself. I am so thankful for my changed lifestyle. Read as Twila Paris describes her relationship with her Father, Orlen. Orlen sent me on that first mission trip which I then followed up to Asia in 1986. I was hooked on missions...Thanks, Orlen for the best Christmas present that I have ever had. http://www.worldwidechallenge.org/1998/twila.html
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Lyrics to Twila's song: This was passed out to the pro players on the tour at the 2003 Australian Open. Watch Twila sing with this 6 minute video.
The Warrior is a Child -
Lately I've been winning battles left and right: But even winners can get wounded in the fight; People say that I'm amazing; Strong beyond my years but they don't see inside of me; I'm hiding all the tears; They don't know that I go running home when I fall down; They don't know who picks me up when no one is around; I drop my sword and cry for just a while 'Cause deep inside this armour; The warrior is a child.
Unafraid because his armour is the best; But even soldiers need a quiet place to rest; People say that I'm amazing; Never face retreat; But they don't see the enemies; That lay me at His feet. They don't know that I go running home when I fall down; They don't know who picks me up when no one is around; I drop my sword and cry for just a while 'Cause deep inside this armour; The warrior is a child.
They don't know that I go running home when I fall down; They don't know who picks me up when no one is around; I drop my sword and look up for His smile; Because deep inside this armour Deep inside this armour; Deep inside this armour; The Warrior is a Child
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Do I trust You, Lord?; Does the river flow?; Do I trust You, Lord?; Does the north wind blow?; You can see my heart, You can read my mind, And You got to know; That I would rather die; Than to lose my faith; In the One I love. Do I trust You, Lord?; Do I trust You?
I will trust You, Lord, when I don't know why; I will trust You, Lord, till the day I die; I will trust You, Lord, when I'm blind with pain! You were God before, and You'll never change; I will trust You; I will trust You; I will trust You, Lord; I will trust You. I will trust You; I will trust You, Lord; I will trust You. I will trust You; I will trust You, Lord.
Recent posts:
MUSIC VIDEO: Jaci Velasquez - On My Knees (English) lyrics
MUSIC VIDEO: Jaci Velasquez solo tu live concert Guatemala (Spanish)
TENNIS VIDEO: 1993 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Seles def. Graf in final
TENNIS VIDEO: 1971 AUSTRALIAN OPEN - Ken Rosewall def. Arthur Ashe
MUSIC VIDEO: Michael W. Smith - Live BRAZIL (English and Portuguese) I am Free with lyrics
MUSIC VIDEO: Twila Paris - Warrior is a Child / Do I Trust You (lyrics)
Free hugs for stressed out tennis players.
What they never taught me in Kindergarten.
Free hugs for stressed out tennis players.
December 1, 2008 at 5:05 pm
The idea is right on - people need encouraging especially if it is free. Watch some 'Free Hugs' video reports on 'CNN in Hong Kong' and 'Ten News in Sydney'. I found these to be uplifting, cute and funny.
I'm not sure feel comfortable with going up and giving 'strangers' a hug. I do know that many tennis players in the world have various heartfelt needs that are hurting them and others.
Sometimes we are in desperate need of a 'hug' and we can not get one from our family or friends and sometimes we have the ability to 'hug' others and we do not give them.
Hey, if you can help someone out who has a need (it may include a 'free hug' or just caring), why don't you do so.
That would be a great Christmas gift!
Juan Mann in Australia -- known for his Free Hugs Campaign video - The Original Free Hugs video, which has logged over 19 million views.
Latest posts:
TENNIS VIDEO: 1969 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Rod Laver def. Tony Roche
TENNIS VIDEO: 1971 AUSTRALIAN OPEN - Ken Rosewall , Arthur Ashe Interviews
MUSIC VIDEO: Michael W. Smith - Live BRAZIL (English and Portuguese) I am Free (lyrics)
MUSIC VIDEO: Twila Paris - Warrior is a Child / Do I Trust You (lyrics)
MUSIC VIDEO: Wayne Watson - Friend of a Wounded Heart (lyrics)
BLOG: What they never taught me in Kindergarten.
BLOG: Celebrating 10 years 1998-2008
BLOG: Work alongside such people
What they never taught me in Kindergarten.
December 1, 2008 at 4:06 pm
>
I consider it a rea honor if someone finds my writing helpful to them.
Christmas is the season of giving to others - except that is what I am trying to do year-round.
I try to be honest explaining my experiences and viewpoints - maybe that helps another.
I am not profound but I have learned that what the Bible teaches is.
I try and keep my spirit and joy up despite living in a world that often shows hurt, anger and all kinds of depressing things.
I raise my family the best that I can and teach them the ways of a Godly lifestyle.
Facebook November 2008 archive
Celebrating 10 years 1998-2008
November 24, 2008 at 4:25 pmOn September 15, 1998 the first newsletter was sent out. If you would like to read the first newsletter you may do so here. The mail list has grown from a few sent out monthly to today's 11,000 weekly and 38,000 twice a year and the name has changed to reflect the International aspect. The ten years and two and half months has gone fast...
My week in 2008 and your prayers are appreciated...
1. I trained two apprentices - a High School student and a young man who will focus full time on developing a website and sport/tennis materials for Chinese.
2. Planning the Australian Open trip - It will be an intense 30+ days.
a. Perth (The Hopman Cup and visit with Pastor Margaret Court, who is our advisory board member, and Victorylifecentre church) Sydney (Medibank Classic, I went last year and looked it over and decided to go this year for the entire week for working with the players and churches.) Melbourne (Australian Open and alongside wonderful Melbourne churches.) 
3. My wife, myself and our children, Ashley who is 7 and Joshua who is 2 years old go to Hong Kong Disneyland for a family outing on December 29-30th.
4. Every Sunday...Our Church, Elim Full Gospel Hong Kong is wonderful, full of committed believers and nice people to be around. Our children love this church!
5. While I have lived in Hong Kong since 1992 and am a resident - I am still an American citizen. I wish all in the USA a Happy Thanksgiving Day - a wonderful family day!
Weekly Verse - November 17, 2008
November 17, 2008 at 4:41 am
MONDAY: Consider Him (Christ). - Hebrews 12:3
You need to go back today and re-read Christ's teachings.
TUESDAY: You're familiar with the old written law, 'Love your friend', and its unwritten companion, 'Hate your enemy'. I'm challenging that. I'm (Christ) telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst...Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you. - Matthew 5:43-48
That's how Christ lived, and that's how He wants you to live too.
WEDNESDAY: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me. - Psalm 66:18
Deal with it today!
THURSDAY: The LORD said to Joshua, "Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have lied, they have put them with their own possessions. That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction. - Joshua 7:10-12
There's a time to pray, and there's a time to stop praying and deal with the problem.
FRIDAY: There was a time when I wouldn't admit what a sinner I was. But my dishonesty made me miserable... until I finally admitted all my sins to You (God)... all my guilt is gone. - Psalm 32:3-5
Nothing will change for you until you decide to deal with the situation and make things right.
SATURDAY: Then you will know the truth, and the Truth (Christ) will set you free. - John 8:32
If the truth can set you free, a lie can keep you bound. Are you bound by a mistaken belief system?
SUNDAY: I (God) guide you in the way! of wisdom and lead you along straight paths. When you walk, your steps will not be hampered; when you run, you will not stumble. - Proverbs 4:11-12
Do you believe that visions and victories are only for others? That miracles don't happen to your family? Are you so chained to a mistaken belief system that you don't even dare to dream?</font>
Recent post incase you have missed one:
TENNIS VIDEO: 1960 Wimbledon final, 27 year old Neale Fraser d. 21 year old Rod Laver, 6-4, 3-6, 9-7, 7-5.
Mentoring Matters
Work alongside such people
Mentoring Matters
TENNIS VIDEO: 1960 Wimbledon final, 27 year old Neale Fraser d. 21 year old Rod Laver, 6-4, 3-6, 9-7, 7-5.Mentoring MattersWork alongside such peopleMentoring Matters
November 11, 2008 at 4:56 am
What is EASIER NOT to do, hard work and time consuming! The answer - mentoring other people.
BUT...I love to mentor people for all the right reasons.. the joy of seeing a person grow and knowing that I am passing on to another what I have learned through my successes and mistakes and ultimately the friendship that it builds..
The mentoring process can be described as...activities conducted by a person (the mentor) for another person (the mentee) in order to help that other person to be more effective to progress in their life and/or career. The mentor is probably someone who had "been there, done that" before. A mentor might use a variety of approaches, eg, coaching, training, discussion, counseling, etc.
Sometimes....the process works well and sometimes it does not work out. I have posted a few people that I am thankful for at Bob's blog - 'Work alongside such people'.
Mentoring is a great responsibility and joyful but at the same time humbling as you realize that you have reached this end stage in your own life and passing on to others.
This week I am been asked to mentor a 15 year old boy who wants to coach tennis and a 30 year old male tennis coach who is newly married.
Sometimes I wonder why I am allowed to just mentor such a small number, often only 2 or 3 at a time and have done so for a number of years. I really do not have the answer to that, but God does know that I have a desire to see larger numbers of tennis players mentored in one location at the same time and I am working in that direction believing that God can bless that...
2009 may be the beginning of this location and your prayers would be appreciated...
Paul the apostle also, spelled out mentoring as his leadership model very simply. “Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ.” (I Corinthians 11:1) “Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me put it into practice.” (Philippians 4:9)
Work alongside such people
November 11, 2008 at 4:39 amJesus himself stated: “Who ever would be great among you must be your servant.” (Matthew 2:25-28) And, “The son of man did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45)
The Daily Verse Blog has a blog (Mentoring Matters) written on who, what and why we should be a mentor to others...
Now to those whom I work with today, I admire, I learn from and I truly see serving others. I am truly blessed to work alongside such people.
Pastor Dennis Balcombe. Senior Pastor Revival Chinese Ministries International - RCMI blog.
Pastor Russ Barton. Senior Pastor Forward in Grace Ministries - Website.
Pastor Rob Keller. Senior Pastor Crossculture Church of Christ - Website.
Pastor Malcolm Kyte. Senior Pastor Queens Road Church - His blog.
Pastor Ron Lewis. Senior Pastor King's Park International Church - Website.
Pastor Steve Merrill. President of Everynation. I read these blogs weekly - His blog.
Pastor Paul Sarchet-Waller. Senior Pastor Elim Church Hong Kong - His blog.
Weekly Verse - November 10, 2008
November 10, 2008 at 4:49 am
Monday: Be strong and courageous...for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. - Deuteronomy 31:6
You are as young as your prayer, and as old as your despair.
Tuesday: Do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand. - Isaiah 41:10
Refuse to listen to those who've settled for second best and want you to do the same, too.
Wednesday: But God, Who comforts the downcast, comforted us by the coming of Titus. - 2 Corinthians 7:6
The company of friends around you will either lift you up or drag you down.
Thursday: Bear one another's burdens and thus fulfill the law of Christ. - Galatians 6:2
When life kicks you, let it kick you forward!" Refuse to accept defeat! Today, ask God for the courage to get up and try again.
Friday: Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. - Galatians 6:9
With God's help you can rebuild! Whatever happened yesterday is in the past.
Saturday: God's grace and mercy are new every morning. - Lamentations 3:23
Today God is saying to you, "You can start all over again, and this time I will enable you to win!"
Sunday: Consider Him (Christ) who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. - Hebrews 12:3
Jesus was criticized continually. They called Him a glutton and a drunkard. (Matt 11:19) They even accused Him of having a demon. (John 8:48) Yet He never once allowed bitterness or discouragement to defeat Him. To Jesus, every obstacle was an opportunity to demonstrate His grace.
Facebook October 2008 archive
Asian financial slump
October 31, 2008 at 6:50 pmIn 1975 I was paid $75USD a month with room and board for my first paid tennis job coaching with Nick Bollettieri Bollettieri Tennis Corporation. It seemed like a lot at the time to a 17 year old from Illinois.
>In 2008 I make $12,000 USD a year coaching five months a year, 12.5 hours a week. The remainder of my time is volunteer ministry for the world ranked tennis players - who often make millions. These same players more then likely have lost much in the stock market or mutual funds. They sure have not given to reaching others for Christ and I know that is what is important as you do not have to look or feel like the fellow in this picture!
I am not impacted at all by the financial crisis. The ministry has three main supporters: One former player from Australia who gives about $3,600 a year. One businessman from South Africa who gives $10,000 very 18 months or so and one church from Illinois who gives $300 a year. The remainder of the ministry expense come from my own $12,000.
70's - I studied business in university and have been an avid follower of the markets since. I was very concerned when students in universities were offered easy to get government loans to attend university and once graduated then had to pay back the tens of thousands of dollars with interest tacked on. Credit card companies sent to these same students cards allowing thousands of dollars of additional debt to be piled up. Seemingly easy free money from those who may be today's financial market managers. Those were the ethics we American college students were taught in that decade!
80's - Everything you could want to purchase was brought with no down payments and low monthly payments and of course with high interest rates. Cars, household appliances, clothes, you name it you got it. It all looked good, tasted good and best of all you did not have to pay it back until much, much later! Then you just declare bankruptcy and walk away!
90's - I got really concerned - Americans started to purchase these really large houses, much more than one family needed. 5,000 square feet was small and often double or triple this size. Really they did not own them, the banks owned them. Easy money for the largest lifestyle you can imagine.
2000's - I saw it coming. I even felt that God told me go into the tennis world and speak about tennis world coming to end as we know it. Corporation funding will disappear. Corporations are what make the tennis world today what you see and not the players. It is simple - No money = no tournaments.
Recent - Most of my students parents in Hong Kong both past and present are financial market or hedge fund managers. You can not image the lifestyle they lead. A family bought a new Porsche sports car, did not like the model and returned it a few days later for a $30,000 USD loss and then bought a more expensive model. Expensive paintings everywhere in the home. Nothing but insanity and greed. Oh, by the way they claim to be followers of Christ.
Thank God, I do not feel the pinch or the insanity over the worlds financial markets. I did not get caught up in all that I outlined from the 70's to today. I have cash in the bank - I can share the Gospel - I do not owe any money. Today I just keep sharing the Gospel message of Christ with what I have and I feel peace and joy.
Weekly Verse - October 27, 2008
October 27, 2008 at 5:01 am>
MONDAY: You have robbed Me (God) of the tithes and offerings. - Malachi 3:8
If you tithe, you can expect God to open heaven and pour out His blessing on you, because He's promised to do just that!
TUESDAY: For since He (Christ) Himself has now been through suffering and temptation, He knows what it is like when we suffer and are tempted, and He is wonderfully able to help us. - Hebrews 2:18
We can choose to gather to our hearts the thorns of disappointment or the flowers of God's grace.
WEDNESDAY: Many are the afflictions of the righteous. - Psalm 34:19
God loves you so much that He'll accept you just the way you are - but He loves you too much to leave you that way. So whatever you're going through today, know with assurance that He's with you, and He'll bring you out victorious.
THURSDAY: Build yourselves up in your most holy faith...keep yourselves in God's love. - Jude 1:20-21
The future not only looks better when your attitude's right, but the present is much more enjoyable too.
FRIDAY: God have chosen you, and ordained you that you should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain. - John 15:16
Create in your children a taste for the things of God when they're young, and when they grow up, it will still be the standard by which they measure.
SATURDAY: As arrows are in the hand of a mighty man, so are children of ones youth. - Psalm 127:4
Arrows have to be aimed, and your children will only go where you direct them! Whether they hit the mark or miss it is up to the parents and no one else.
SUNDAY: Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it. - Proverbs 22:6
Parent, allow Jesus to be Lord of your life today. He'll help you to win the battle and to raise those children right.
Weekly Verse - October 20, 2008
October 27, 2008 at 4:52 am
MONDAY: Be transformed by the renewing of your mind. - Romans 12:2 We can alter our lives by altering our attitudes. It's your thought life, not your circumstances, that determines your happiness.
TUESDAY: I will bless the Lord at all times: His praise shall continually be in my mouth. - Psalms 34:1 Your right attitudes don't stay changed, you've got to work on them every day: its called "renewing your mind." The only way to do it is to stay in the Word of God. Have you been doing that lately?
WEDNESDAY: Friends come and friends go, but a true friend sticks by you like family. - Proverbs 18:24 You don't need a lot of people, you just need the right people, so ask God to send them into your life today.
THURSDAY: I (God) will make him a helper suitable for him. - Genesis 2:18 Sometimes the answer is not more prayer, or more counselling, it's just a real friend. Especially one who's fought the same battles you're fighting - and won.
FRIDAY: He who walks with the wise grows wise, but a companion of fools suffers harm. - Proverbs 13:20 There are two keys that greatly determine your future: what you perceive yourself to be, and who you associate with.
SATURDAY: I (Paul speaking) have no one quite like Timothy. He is loyal, and genuinely concerned for you. Most people around here are looking out for themselves...But you know yourselves that Timothy's the real thing. He's been a devoted son to me as together we've delivered the Message. - Philippians 2:20 The company you keep will shape your conduct, and your conduct will shape your character, and your character will shape your destiny - so choose your friends carefully!
SUNDAY: Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse...test Me (God) in this...see if I will not throw open the floodgates of Heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. - Malachi 3:10 Tithing is not about money - its about obedience. The choice is yours - living under an open heaven, or a closed one. Why don't you put God to the test and see?
Weekly Verse - October 13, 2008
October 27, 2008 at 4:47 am
>MONDAY: And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good. - Romans 8:28
When you know who God says you are, you become secure! You also become honest enough to admit your failures and seek His help.
TUESDAY: What can we ever say to such wonderful things as these? If God is on our side, who can ever be against us? Since He did not spare even His own Son for us won't He also surely give us everything else? "I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from His love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels won't, and all the powers of hell itself cannot keep Gods love away. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, or where we are - high above the sky, or in the deepest ocean - nothing will ever be able to separate us from the love of God. - Romans 8:28-39
Rejoice - for this is you God is speaking about!
WEDNESDAY: And Caleb...said, Let us go up at once and possess it, for we are well able to overcome it. But the men that went up with him said, We are not able. - Numbers 13:30-31
The difference is attitude.
THURSDAY: We felt like grasshoppers before them they were so tall. - Numbers 13:33
Is all you can talk about is the improbability of the task?
FRIDAY: Let us go up at once...for we are well able. - Numbers 13:30
Some see a problem as the biggest target that can not be missed.
SATURDAY: Greater is He (God) that is in you, than he that is in the world. - 1 John 4:4
Achievers are not avoiders. Not only do they find solutions to the problems of life, but they discover a tremendous power within themselves.
SUNDAY: You armed me with strength for battle. - Psalm 18:39
Winners have one thing in common: a strong faith that refuses to quit! We are all fighting a battle of some kind.
Tokyo - this week (AIG Japan Open)
Weekly Verse - October 13, 2008
October 12, 2008 at 3:44 pm
VIDEO: Edberg vs Chang - Tokyo 1991 Quarter Finals
MONDAY: And we know that all that happens to us is working for our good. - Romans 8:28
When you know who God says you are, you become secure! You also become honest enough to admit your failures and seek His help.
TUESDAY: What can we ever say to such wonderful things as these? If God is on our side, who can ever be against us? Since He did not spare even His own Son for us won't He also surely give us everything else? "I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from His love. Death can't, and life can't. The angels won't, and all the powers of hell itself cannot keep Gods love away. Our fears for today, our worries about tomorrow, or where we are - high above the sky, or in the deepest ocean - nothing will ever be able to separate us from the love of God. - Romans 8:28-39
Rejoice - for this is you God is speaking about!
WEDNESDAY: And Caleb...said, Let us go up at once and possess it, for we are well able to overcome it. But the men that went up with him said, We are not able. - Numbers 13:30-31
The difference is attitude.
THURSDAY: We felt like grasshoppers before them they were so tall. - Numbers 13:33
Is all you can talk about is the improbability of the task?
FRIDAY: Let us go up at once...for we are well able. - Numbers 13:30
Some see a problem as the biggest target that can not be missed.
SATURDAY: Greater is He (God) that is in you, than he that is in the world. - 1 John 4:4
Achievers are not avoiders. Not only do they find solutions to the problems of life, but they discover a tremendous power within themselves.
SUNDAY: You armed me with strength for battle. - Psalm 18:39
Winners have one thing in common: a strong faith that refuses to quit! We are all fighting a battle of some kind.
Tokyo - this week part 2 (AIG Japan Open)
Tokyo - this week (AIG Japan Open)VIDEO: Edberg vs Chang - Tokyo 1991 Quarter Finals
Tokyo - this week part 2 (AIG Japan Open)
October 6, 2008 at 3:42 pm
Thursday: Sunny day 71F,22C. I spoke to players from China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan, Thailand and USA. Switching between cultures has become easy, but I always have to think to myself before I speak - 'I need to change my mind set to this specific culture.' Having served cross culturally for 23 years in many countries (Asian, European, Latino, North American and Pacific Oceanic) - I am prepared as much as one is able to at this point in time.
Friday: It is always a bit sad for me to see players lose and then leave the site and not return and move on to the next location. For the men - Vienna and Stockholm; the women - Moscow. At the end of the day, several players that I have not spoken to previously spoke to me on spiritual matters. Watching matches today and then following along with the top players who played.
Saturday: My day always starts off with praying for my family, myself, the players and the tournament administrators and in that order. I believe that the strength of what I do is through prayer! I believe that at the end of the day when I examine the results the progress or lack of it, is dependent upon the depth of the sensitivity and specifics of my prayer for these players. Up to 4am Sunday morning posting music videos to my website blog, about 16 in total.
Sunday: An unexpected day- I attend church in Tokyo from 9 to 10:30 and then off to the matches. Two player's whom I had not known previously came up to me and really wanted to talk. In addition two Japanese coaches who I have seen on the tour for a number of years also wanted to engage in conversation. About 50% of the finalists I know and spoke with them. I have known the Champion since she was 17 years old and I encouraged her by telling her that the importance of thanking God for her blessings and to keep her faith strong. I feel that it is helpful to have someone around, such as myself, to remind her of this area of her life which she believes in and she was happy to hear this. I was so tired that by 4pm I was laying on the sofa in the corner of the room, occasionally shutting my eyes and at the same time trying very hard to observe what happening in the room. A player came up to me and really wanted to talk. It is important to know that the need for Christ in a person's life is not dependent upon anyone but upon the Holy Spirit working in that individuals life. Good news from the tennis tour, my status changed but not my responsibilities. At a later time, I will share more..
Monday: Sleeping in, site seeing in Yokohama and spending time with my hosts - the Nabarrete family. A nice video for tourists on Yokohama here.
A few interesting videos: Japanese Worship music - Japan - What do you think? - Edberg vs Chang - Tokyo 1991 Quarter Finals - Love Japan mission video with youth - Scott Douma interview Pastor of Yokohama, Japan church - Yuji's Testimony in Japanese with English translation
Facebook September 2008 archive
Tokyo - this week (AIG Japan Open)
September 29, 2008 at 5:30 pm
Friday September 26th. - Sunny, 73F,23C. A short relaxing flight, 3 1/2 hours from Hong Kong to Tokyo. Immediately on the bus drive into the city you notice how polite the people are, the beautiful dark green forested foliage and absolutely no trash anywhere on the ground.Saturday - I learn the way via the subway to the tournament site. Arrive at the site, meet players, watch qualifier matches and pick up my credential. Thanks - Rohan and all the others who offered. The next days are all about the learning the ropes of a new city and tournament.
Sunday - Cloudy. I speak at Grace Tokyo a church in central Tokyo. Bi-lingual with 50
people, mostly Japanese or Asian. (more photos here) In the afternoon attend the tournament with the Pastor (whom I am staying) and his son. We pray for the work and networking of churches for the future.
<span></span>Monday - Rain and cool 52F,11C. Cancel all the outside matches leaving one covered stadium court for all first round matches. Food is provided on site for the players and others with them and includes myself. Yeah! Spoke for 2-3 hours to one family and player that I have known since junior days who is now an adult. It was a good bonding and learning time - as always Christ is spoken of.
Tuesday - Rain. Ariake Tennis where the tournament is held is located in a park and has fifty-one tennis courts. Nice! Daytime - speaking to tennis players, administrators and staff. Evening - a meeting with several Japanese and Asian people who are involved in organizing sports as a ministry tool and worldwide ministry crusades, much like Billy Graham, we discuss future plans.
Wednesday - Rain. Morning attend Yokohama Grace Church service. This church has about 300 people. Afternoon and evening I'm at the tournament. The tournament is now divided into three different indoor locations due to rain.
Part 2 of this message will be sent out next week. I want to keep everyone up to date as much as possible as it occurs. Your prayers are appreciated.
Hong Kong this week - tainted milk scare.
September 25, 2008 at 1:02 pm
September 16th - My daughter broke her arm while running a race in school. She falls at the finish line and then crunch!
September 22nd - Hospital visit for appointment for my son from the tainted milk scandal. My daughter spends the afternoon watching me while I coach tennis. Haven't heard about the milk scandal in China read more from CNN here>
September 23rd, Another typhoon hits Hong Kong. The last one was August 10th. Winds at 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph) and heavy rain.
September 24th. Hong Kong Has First Bank Run in Decade...
September 26th - My wife takes my son to the hospital to have an ultrasound to check for any kidney problems caused by drinking Nestle powered baby formula from China. Note that we have thousands of babies in Hong Kong undergoing the same tests.
September 26th - Fly Northwest Airlines to the AIG Japan Open tennis tournament qualifying and men and women tournament in Tokyo.
Weekly Verse - October 6, 2008
September 24, 2008 at 6:37 pm
MONDAY: The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me (Christ) to preach the gospel to the poor; He has sent Me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised. - Luke 4:18
Christ made a difference - and there is no greater honor than that. The question you and I must answer today is - will we?
TUESDAY: Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into Him who is the Head; that is, Christ. - Ephesians 4:15
Today, the situation you're facing is a wonderful opportunity to measure your own spiritual growth, so make it a growing experience.
WEDNESDAY: I (Nehemiah) am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease while I leave it and come down to you? - Nehemiah 6:3
Remember Nehemiah's answer to those who were trying to discourage him and stop his work? Make that your answer to your critics too!
THURSDAY: But you shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and you shall be witnesses for Me (Christ) - Acts 1:8
When they received power, set-backs became springboards, obstacles became opportunities, and barriers became blessings.
FRIDAY: He (Christ) will take you by the hand and guide you...[He] will make sense out of what is about to happen and indeed, out of all that I have done and said. - John 16:13-15</span>
Look at the difference Christ made in the lives of the disciples.
SATURDAY: To You, O Lord, do I (David) lift up my soul. - Psalm 25:1</span>
If you need help today, turn to Psalm 25 and notice what David did. First, he knew where to go when trouble came.
SUNDAY: The Lord who heals. - Exodus 15:26
A man without God, has to play God in his own life. That may be fine in the good times, but what about the morning that brings bad news? Who will you turn to then?
Weekly Verse - September 22, 2008
September 12, 2008 at 9:33 pm
MONDAY: The Lord shall increase you more and more, you and your children. You are blessed of the Lord Which made heaven and earth. - Psalm 115:14-15
Today, Gods raising up people who will demonstrate in every area of their lives what its like to live in Gods blessing. Ask Him to make you one of them!
TUESDAY: You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion. - 2 Corinthians 9:11
Haven't you wished at times you could do more to help? The Bible teaches that God wants to put us into that position. So please, let's get rid of our uneasiness when it comes to the subject of money.
WEDNESDAY: I (God) will bless you...and you (Abraham) shall be a blessing. - Genesis 12:2
God wants to bless us so that we can bless others, but if we cant make ends meet, how can we bless anybody else? Were supposed to be part of the solution, not part of the problem!
THURSDAY: Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord. - 1 Corinthians 15:58
Press on! Nothing in the world can take the place of persistence. Persistence and determination alone will prevail.
FRIDAY: Whose weakness was turned to strength; and who became powerful in battle and routed foreign armies. - Hebrews 11:34
They started out weak, and became strong. How? Through battle! Our problem is, we don't want to fight; but without conflict, there's no conquest.
SATURDAY: Remember those in prison...as if you yourselves were suffering. - Hebrews 13:3
Jesus said that when you do it for them - you do it for Him, too!
SUNDAY: From one man He (God) made every nation. - Acts 17:26
Instead of seeing white people and black people, it's time we started seeing people - who just happen to be black, or white, or brown, or yellow!
Websites: in case you have missed a few recent postings.
Sep 5 - US Open It's over!
Sep 2-US Open remembrances 1972 to 1984 Part 2
Aug 31-Weekly Verse - September 1, 2008 US Open edition
Aug 26-US Open remembrances 1991 to 2006 Part 1
Aug 26-USTA - Remembrances history, league play, player development
Aug 21-USTA - Remembrances - built brick by brick
VIDEO: I can only imagine - Team Hoyt -Tribute to Paralympic athletes
September 12, 2008 at 8:19 pm
Click on the photo for Video Link</span>
Inspiration. Story of a Father and Son. 'I can only Imagine' sung by 'Mercy me' - Video - Ironman, Australia. As a Father this story personally touches me!
This is dedicated to all the athletes participating in the Paralympic Games, many of the tennis players whom I have gotten to know especially Beth and Gold medal finalists Shingo and Satoshi; Gil Reyes, the trainer to Andre Agassi who told me this was his favorite song and then sang it word for word. Every time I hear this song or see this video I think of you all.
Websites: in case you have missed a few recent postings.Sep 5 -US Open It's over!
Sep 2-US Open remembrances 1972 to 1984 Part 2
Aug 31-Weekly Verse - September 1, 2008 US Open edition
Aug 26-US Open remembrances 1991 to 2006 Part 1
Aug 26-USTA - Remembrances history, league play, player development
Aug 21-USTA - Remembrances - built brick by brick
Complete video listing:
Facebook February 2009 archive
Weekly Verse - February 23, 2009
February 22, 2009 at 5:47 pm
MONDAY: Because You (Christ) were slain, and with Your blood You purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. -Revelation 5:9
Our goal should be to preach and experience the truth - not enforce our culture or preferred styles on others! The only thing that must be right before God is your heart - humble and praising Him from its depths!
TUESDAY: What shall we do? - Acts 2:37
We have the answer, but before we can declare it to others, we've first got to demonstrate it amongst ourselves. Don't you think so?
WEDNESDAY: A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. - Luke 12:15
Many know how to make a living with a job, position or possessions - but not all know how to live. Jesus told us - life is not built on things, its built on relationships and the first relationship you need is with Him.
THURSDAY: He (God) rescues and He saves; He performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions. - Daniel 6:27
Stop exhausting yourself fighting the enemy and the conditions around you. Just lean on God.
FRIDAY: My God sent His angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me because I was found innocent in his sight. - Daniel 6:22
Be innocent of the charges made by those who are jealous or afraid because of your position with God and men.
SATURDAY: He prayed three times a day - Daniel 6:10
Daniel went on to prosper in the kingdom and that's exactly what God plans for you too - so rejoice!
SUNDAY: For a just man falls seven times, and rises up again. - Proverbs 24:16
Winners are just losers who got tired of losing; they decided to get up one time more than they were knocked down.
Latest posts:
Seeing good in all circumstances - Tsunami - Lest we forget.
February 22, 2009 at 2:38 pm
I was invited by the Sri Lanka Tennis Association as a tennis consultant and tennis missionary to assist on improving the national structure; of which I have some experience - with all my expenses paid. A change occurred that saved possibility eleven life's including my own and my family.
In a situation involving either your or someones life or death - you may ask?
Why was I (another) saved? Was it because I (another) am better then others and God spared me (us)? Were those who perished deserving of this? Who perished and who are saved by chance or a Divine Plan?
My Answer for my own experience(s). - It is not my time to face God. I have not completed my task that was put on earth for. I do not think I am better than others. Just by God's grace go I. A plan is taking place for Christ to return to this world to judge both the living and those who have died.
Colombo, Sri Lanka 2004
Unbeknowest to myself - God had a change of plans for me and within minutes over 150,000 people perished on beaches in Asia. Watch a video with the country statistics (warning graphic content).
I arrived in Sri Lanka December 26th at 1am (disappointed I must say on leaving my family on Christmas afternoon) from a change of plans by the SLTA from the arriving on the 28th. I went to my host family home - This family of four were kind, polite and also had to change their holiday plans as they had rented a beach front hotel room for Christmas and Boxer Day (26th).
By 9:30am we all heard reports that a natural disaster had taken place along the beaches - with a few people reported as casualties. By 11am - we heard - a few hundred were reported dead in a Tsunami (which none of us had ever heard the term prior to that day). Noon - I went to the Colombo Swim Club for a light lunch looking out over the water of the bay. The sky was blue, the water was calm but unbeknown to us... two miles down this coast a natural disaster has struck with the all the resorts wiped out.
I knew that I, my family, the host family and another family of four who came with me had all changed our plans from the beach - We were all saved by this seemingly inconvenient change of plans.
Yes, God can and does change plans for His purposes. The important thing is to recognize God's purposes in the Plan.
I can now stand at the water's edge and thank God for saving me and my family. I was never the same afterwards and that also is part of that Divine plan. A saved, new and thankful me!
I will share with you how in 1985 as a young missionary in the Philippines - a family that I stayed with were killed and leave you with what I have learned about that Divine (God's) Plan - that helps me keep my sanity in difficult circumstances. <!-- multiply:no_crosspost -->
Weekly Verse - February 16, 2009
February 17, 2009 at 4:43 am
MONDAY: Because You were slain, and with Your blood You purchased men for God from every tribe and language and people and nation. -Revelation 5:9
Our goal should be to preach and experience the truth - not enforce our culture or preferred styles on others! The only thing that must be right before God is your heart - humble and praising Him from its depths!
TUESDAY: What shall we do? - Acts 2:37
We have the answer, but before we can declare it to others, we've first got to demonstrate it amongst ourselves. Don't you think so?
WEDNESDAY: A man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions. - Luke 12:15
Many know how to make a living with a job, position or possessions - but not all know how to live. Jesus told us - life is not built on things, its built on relationships and the first relationship you need is with Him.
THURSDAY: He (God) rescues and He saves; He performs signs and wonders in the heavens and on the earth He has rescued Daniel from the power of the lions. - Daniel 6:27
Stop exhausting yourself fighting the enemy and the conditions around you. Just lean on God.
FRIDAY: My God sent His angel, and he shut the mouths of the lions. They have not hurt me because I was found innocent in his sight. - Daniel 6:22
Be innocent of the charges made by those who are jealous or afraid because of your position with God and men.
SATURDAY: He prayed three times a day - Daniel 6:10
Daniel went on to prosper in the kingdom and that's exactly what God plans for you too - so rejoice!
SUNDAY: For a just man falls seven times, and rises up again. - Proverbs 24:16
Winners are just losers who got tired of losing; they decided to get up one time more than they were knocked down.
Seeing good in all circumstances - Australian Open
February 11, 2009 at 4:04 am
I believe this is my seventh consecutive Australian Open. You kind of lose track after a number of years. In 2009, I added two additional weeks to the schedule attending tournaments in Perth and Sydney.
This year I stayed two additional days in Melbourne - nothing that I planned. Upon purchasing my air ticket in November - I was told that all flights were full going back to Hong Kong until Wednesday after the Sunday men's final.
Needless to say, I want to leave as early as possible to be with my family - Mia, my wife of twelve years, Ashley, my seven year old daughter and Joshua, my two year old son. I stayed begrudgingly - but I did have the spiritual sense to ask God in my prayers - 'What purpose do You have for me during these two additional days in Melbourne?'.
I have learned that nothing is by chance and only by God's grace do we continue on.
Totally unexpected a tennis person had a heart attack on Thursday the week before. The timing for my two additional days was perfect as the first day of visiting in hospital were the two additional days that I was there. While I am an ordained Minister - I felt I went as a Chaplain giving comfort to those in need, visited the sick and in addition was recognized as such.
The next time you think that the timing on things are not quite working out to your satisfaction - ask God what his plan is for that change and look for the unexpected good events that take place.
Next week I will write at this blog - how my ministry trip to Sri Lanka being changed from the evening of December 27th, 2004 to Christmas Day - possibility saved several lives - including my own family.
How events in all circumstances - the difficult (The Tsunami, the Australian fires) and the good - for a plan that the wise can see a Creator putting into place a plan and the end is foretold through the Holy Scriptures known as the 'The Bible' will be discussed at a future blog.
Weekly Verse - February 9, 2009
February 11, 2009 at 3:04 am
MONDAY: The Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth. - John 16:13
Draw from your source and your growth is automatic.
TUESDAY: The Holy Spirit will constantly assure you that you're God's child. - Romans 8:16
People can tell by the way your actions and the way you talk that you were under the influence of the Holy Spirit.
WEDNESDAY: The Holy Spirit give you the right words at just the right time. - Luke 12:11-12
It's wrong for you to be full of alcohol and the Bible says it's equally wrong for you not to be full of the Holy Spirit.
THURSDAY: The Holy Spirit will produce in you the nature of Christ. - Galatians 5:22
Why don't you ask God for His Holy Spirit now, stay in His presence until you receive Him?
FRIDAY: Joseph said unto his father, They are my sons, whom God has given me in this place. And he said, Bring them...and I will bless them.' - Genesis 48:9
Fathers in the Old Testament laid their hands on each generation because they believed that blessings were transferable. If nobody did that in your life, then start a new tradition.
SATURDAY: With God's blessing comes health, peace, long life and prosperity. - Deuteronomy 28
The Enemy is trying to break the link through you which the blessings flow through. Don't let him!
SUNDAY: And the Lord God called unto Adam, and said to him Where are you? - Genesis 3:9
The most important question you can ask yourself today is, "Where am I with God - really?" You could be in trouble if you don't know the answer or, if you do, but you just don't deal with it.
Recent posts in case you've missed:
The best and the most difficult at the Australian Open - Christina McHale, Men's doubles final
Australian Open details
The Big News - Australian Open
Facebook January 2009 archive
The best and the most difficult at the Australian Open - Christina McHale, Men's double final
January 31, 2009 at 6:51 am
The best of the Australian Open - Christina McHale - winner of the girls 2009 Australian Open Girls Doubles title. I taught Christina and her sister Lauren from 6 years old and 7 years old respectively while the family lived in Hong Kong for five years. What I remember during their time with me is that they learned from absolute beginner, learned to play competitive matches including tournaments and I often had them in classes with children four to six years older. I have asked God in my quite time why my students had not progressed to the world adult level from beginner - after may developed into university and national level players. This is my first student that has developed to the highest world level from beginner (which I focus on sound fundamentals developing into competitive play), women's world ranked in additional to junior ranked and a Grand Slam winner at that. Amazingly I had completely lost contact with the family and did not even realize that they (Lauren is currently ranked #1 at Princeton University and top 10 US.) still played. To have the Mother spot me in a room full of people and then in addition have the opportunity to work with Christina again, now 16 years old - is a miracle to me. God did answer my prayer and allowed me to see her win this Championship. Thank you God.
A close second to this is the mixed doubles final which I was privileged to be part of and all that involved. I was blessed.
The most difficult of the Australian Open - Knowing all four doubles players in the finals - Being supported by one of the players for my credential for this Australian Open. Being at each teams matches all through the tournament. In the finals sitting for one set with one team who provided my credential for this tournament then moving off the court for the next two sets to respect all the players and teams. Then standing next to the winning player box upon the conclusion. Afterwards seeing the winners rejoice and the losing team being sad. I think of all four of these young men as like a family member.
Australian Open details
January 31, 2009 at 1:00 am
Day 1,2 - Arrive at 6pm Sunday from Sydney with my second case of food poisoning and dysentery in three days. I am out of action for next three days, managing only to go to the player hotel for four hours. I have air conditioning and a sofa to sit on with players walking by, stopping and talking. I give out a booklet called "More than Gold" from RBC Ministries printed in English, Chinese and Japanese (more info link here.) which was given to athletes at the 2008 Olympics. I pray for players, families, coaches and tournament and tour administrators.
Day 3 - My Credentials come through with two players nominating me. Thank you to them. If I had received my credential before this time I would have missed the hotel outreach and going to the tournament would have been very bad for my health as the heat and stress would have difficult if not impossible. I see God's perfect timing and plan.
Day 4 - 7 I have to pace myself for this period as my energy level is lower than normal. This is my favorite time as so many players to speak with and I spend a good part of my time with players have a history of quarter finalists to finalists. This level of players requires a lot of time as they have time commitments with media, drug testing and their managers, agents and sponsors. I have to have patience and wait around for a convenient time to meet up. I like to arrive at 10am and then stay until the last match which often ends at 2am or later.
Day 8 - A miracle. I am surrounded by many players at the practice desk and I hear 'Is that Bob Kraft?' It is the mother of my former student for five years Hong Kong. I taught Christian McHale for the few years of her development five years of her development until the family moved from Hong Kong back to the US. Now at 16 years old, she is playing in the main draw of women and juniors and world ranked. I help her out as I can the remainder of the tournament. She lost a close ones in the first round of women (lost of conditioning), second round of girls singles (close match) and wins the girls doubles championship. This is her first Grand Slam event. I am proud of her. Yes, I am an registered ATP coach in addition to a Minister of the Gospel and I am thankful for that.
Day 11 -12 - A miracle. The four player that have supported me so much with access are playing each other in the finals. In addition Mahesh Bhupathi from India (he has stated that he can be publicly identified as a believer in Christ) is in the finals of Mixed doubles. So I will be very busy with quite a few finals. The temperature is 45C or 109F and while play is often suspended; play often takes place at 100F plus temperatures.
Day 13 - Watching the Junior finals with Christina and then the evening men's final. In between I make a copy for a ministry video for athletes to be given to a Croatian player. During a typical match I can pray for 90 minutes or two hours. I consider this the highest form of ministry that I can do and is a great privilege that I have been given. Evening men's final and then players party. It is very hard as I know all players and to have some lose. But we do all this so that some may be reached for the Gospel's sake.
Day 14 - Not just written, but the men's singles and mixed doubles finals. I am not writing much about this day, as I am sending this just before the finals. I believe I will be at court-side for players for the mixed.
Day 15-17 - I have three and half days of down time after the tournament due to airline reservation difficulties. I will take at least 2 days to sight see Melbourne and the surrounding area. I have to find time to finish setting up my tennis program in Hong Kong which starts Feb. 7th. God uses this as my means to provide provision for my family and each new session is trusting that God provides and He has for all these years both on the pro tour and for my family.
The Big News - Australian Open
January 20, 2009 at 1:42 pm
I just read where Roger and Serena won their matches, the Open tournament has more fans attending than any other time and Pittsburgh and Arizona are in the XLIII NFL Superbowl. The focus is here.
But the really big news is my little boy Joshua just learned how to say 30 words in English and Chinese. My day is free, so I plan to call the entire family. And the big news is that I will go to the mall to buy "the Fireman costume' that my sweet baby girl asked for.
I know what is important in my world today; Cause I know the really big news.
The really big news is that my little boy Joshua wants to learn to ride his red three wheeled 
Mom (mine) wasn't expect to live through the night, but when I called she laboriously said 'I have been waiting for your call'.
When Ashley says 'Dad, come on out and let's play' with knowing that I can't refuse. You see I still read the paper especially the sports but I know the really Big News.
This was adapted with my own experiences this week and is from the song 'The Really Big News' by The Gaither Vocal Band recorded in Sydney, Australia in 2002. The music video can be viewed here.
Another MUSIC VIDEO: 'I'm Gonna Sing' - The Gaither Vocal Band</font>
'The Medibank Classic' Sydney details
January 17, 2009 at 5:35 am
Day 4 - Start at 10:30 am and sit in the sun (35to42C/95to108F) on various courts finishing at 4:30pm. I sit right next to the court and that is for players that I know well. In the evening matches I am on court with the players until 2am on Centre Court and speak with players after the match. 
Day 5 - I have food poisoning for 16 hours. I pace myself - 30 minutes on the courts and 30 minutes off talking to players or resting in the air conditioning. Some matches I know all the players playing against each other and I sit right in the middle of the courts in Section D. As a Pastor, I want the best for everyone - You win - you rejoice and you lose - you grow from it and then put all this into a good Godly context. I miss the night matches (women's finals) as I am too weak and need rest. 
Day 7 - Food poisoning again starting at 3am. Pack, do laundry and then ready for the flight to Melbourne (4:15pm).Weekly Verse - January 19 and 26, 2009 (Australian Open Special Edition)
January 17, 2009 at 5:20 am
Jan. 19 MONDAY (First Round): Let's put it on a new cart." Others said, "Let's get Uzzah and Ahio to drive the cart (with the Ark). - 2 Samuel 6:3
The ark could be brought back only God's way and that was by people who (1) knew how to walk in balance, (2) knew how to walk in unity, (3) knew how to walk in righteousness.
TUESDAY (First Round): I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless. - Thessalonians 5:23
Your soul is constantly caught between your fleshly desires, which says "no" to God and your spiritual desires, which says "yes." That's why it must be constantly reprogrammed by the Word of God (The Bible).
WEDNESDAY (Second round): Let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. - Romans 12:2
Until you think differently, you won't live differently.
THURSDAY (Second round): I (Jesus Christ) will make you fishers of men. - Matthew 4:19
If you're there, prayer is there, hope is there and God is there!" Wherever you are, turn on the light!
FRIDAY (Third round): Compel them to come in, that My (Christ) house may be filled. - Luke 14:23
Some people will require 'intensive care' - give it to them. The fact is, you may be the only Christian they'll ever meet, so don't let them down.
SATURDAY (Third round): In my distress I prayed to the Lord, and the Lord answered me and rescued me. - Psalm 118:5
For me, Jesus was the only answer and friend; He's your only answer, too." Why don't you come to Him today?
SUNDAY (Third round and Quarter finals women’s): Paul, a bond-servant of Christ Jesus, called as an apostle. – Romans 1:1
Lord, I'm not serving You because I have to, I'm serving You because I love You. Bond me together with You.
Jan. 26 MONDAY (Quarter finals men’s and women’s): And so, dear brothers, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living sacrifice, holy - the kind He can accept. When you think of what He has done for you, is this too much to ask?" – Romans 12:1
Ministry is it what you do, not what you claim to be.
TUESDAY (Quarterfinals men’s): Lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes. For you will spread out to the right and to the left. - Isaiah 54:2-3
Some were called and some just went." Those who are 'called' take time to build solid foundations in prayer, in the Word and in relationships that help them grow. That way they're strong enough, flexible enough, to handle the waiting periods, the enemy attacks and the personal disappointments. If this devotional is all the reading you do, your diet is sorely deficient. Rearrange your priorities and start putting first things first.
WEDNESDAY (semifinals men’s and women’s): 'This is what the Kingdom of God is like. A man scatters seed on the ground. Night and day, whether he sleeps or gets up, the seed sprouts and grows, though he does not know how. All by itself the soil produces grain - first the stalk, then the head, then the full kernel in the head. As soon as the grain is ripe, he puts the sickle to it, because the harvest has come.' " – Mark 4:26-29
Are in the dark?' How and when your harvest will come is entirely up to God. All you know is - that it will! Are you in the harvest? That's when you hear the words, “…put in the sickle because the harvest has come." Whatever season you're in today, stand fast and keep trusting, for your harvest and your answer are on the way!
THURSDAY (semifinals women’s): You must make allowance for each other's faults and forgive the person who offends you. - Colossians 3:13
Father, whatever I ask for myself in blessing, I ask for them too: make it a double portion.
FRIDAY (semifinals men’s): And Joseph dreamed a dream, and he told it his brethren: and they hated him yet the more. - Genesis 37:5
To discover your dream - get to know yourself, your strengths and your weaknesses. Look at your opportunities. Examine where God has put you, and then seek His counsel. If you do, He'll give you a dream for your life.
SATURDAY (finals women’s): Be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit. - Ephesians 5:18
When you find out what the Holy Spirit can do for you, you won't want to live one day without Him. He'll guide you into the truth. - John 16:13
SUNDAY (finals men’s): I will pray the Father (God), and He shall give you another Comforter (Spirit) that He may abide with you forever. - John 14:16
The Spirit will constantly assure you that you're God's child; the right words at just the right time and even produce in you the nature of Christ.
Recent posts:
'The Medibank Classic' Sydney details (upcoming)
Loveliness at "The Medibank Classic" Sydney, Australia
'The Hopman Cup' Perth details
The Hopman Cup details.
January 11, 2009 at 3:56 pm
Day 0 - Overnight flight from Hong Kong to Perth 8.5 hours and same time zone. Hurray! (The kid really wasn't on the plane windscreen - just wanted to add a little humor!)
Day 1 - Arrival and then on to my host family (my second year) who attend Victory Centre Church in Perth. Sleep in that day.
Day 2 - Take the city train (45 minutes) to the tournament. The Tournament Director was very kind to me and took care of me. Thanks!
Day 2-4 Only 2-4 players on site at a given time out of 16, so lots of time to spend together. Some new players that I learned and some older that I have known a long time. Good ministry.
Day 5 - Former World number one player Margaret Court-Smith and her husband Barry and I spend time together. They are Pastors of Victory Life Church and she is an Advisory Board members of this ministry. We focus on the positive!
Took 3/4 of day before the night matches and had a tour south 1 1/2 hours south of Perth along the coastline. Fabulous!
Day 6 - At the airport leaving... unexpectedly ran into tour regulars. Very, very good for the future and can not share more.
Read this weeks general update at 'Bob's Site' - Loveliness at "The Medibank Classic" Sydney, Australia
Recent posts in case you've missed:
TENNIS VIDEO: 1971 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Margaret Court def. Evonne Goolagong Final (Part 1/2)
TENNIS VIDEO: 1983 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Wilander def. Lendl Final on grass
TENNIS VIDEO: 2000 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Agassi def. Sampras Semifinal
Loveliness at "The Medibank Classic" Sydney, Australia
January 11, 2009 at 2:52 pm
My idea of beauty since arriving. I want to always remind myself 'think positive'.
Arrival in Sydney 10:30pm from Perth - 5 hours flight and 2 hours time zone difference - the weather on touchdown is 24C (75F) and clear. Live Cam link.
Sunday service at St. Andrews Anglican Church - an 80 year old neighbourhood church in the second oldest city in Australia (Parramatta)
Living in a house of 88 years old, restored to its original status. Beautiful beyond description.
Tournament access - The comment: "Bob's in" then official recognition - what a pleasure. Medibank Classic link.
You may also want to catch up at this weeks 'The Hopman Cup details" from Perth.
Recent posts in case you've missed:
TENNIS VIDEO: 1971 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Margaret Court def. Evonne Goolagong Final (Part 1/2)
TENNIS VIDEO: 1983 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Wilander def. Lendl Final on grass
TENNIS VIDEO: 2000 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Agassi def. Sampras Semifinal
Weekly Verse - January 5, 2009
January 11, 2009 at 2:09 pmMONDAY: Dear friends, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have confidence before God. - 1 John 3:21
Miracles happen only to the believing - so move back into a position where you can confidently believe God again.
TUESDAY: But someone may ask, 'How will the dead be raised? What kind of bodies will they have?'- 1 Corinthians 15:35
Cancer is limited; it cannot cripple love. It cannot shatter hope. It cannot corrode faith. It cannot eat away peace. It cannot destroy confidence. It cannot kill friendship. It cannot shut out memories. It cannot silence courage. It cannot invade the soul. It cannot reduce eternal life. It cannot quench the spirit and it cannot lessen the power of the resurrection.
WEDNESDAY: There are different kinds of flesh - whether of humans, animals, birds or fish. - 1 Corinthians 15:39
Just as fish are designed to handle the pressures of the deep and birds are designed to fly, your new resurrection body will have 'no limitations.'THURSDAY: For one star differs from another star in glory. So also is the resurrection of the dead. - 1 Corinthians 15:41-42
There will be degrees of honor and differences of reward when we all get home to Heaven.
FRIDAY: It (your body) is sown in weakness; it is raised in power. - 1 Corinthians 15:43
The sexton's word for cemetery is 'God's acre.'How wonderful! Christians don't get buried, they get planted. Think of it; planted in corruption, but raised in the likeness of Christ.
SATURDAY: We know that when He shall appear, we shall be like Him (Christ). - 1 John 3:2
Go ahead, live today and everyday in the light of that moment.
SUNDAY: How shall the ark of the Lord come to me? - 2 Samuel 6:9
When King David asked - it was because all his own efforts had failed. What has God been telling you to do? Have you done it? Remember, He won't negotiate, He won't compromise and He won't overlook disobedience. You've got to go back and deal with it before you can go forward again.MUSIC VIDEO: Jaci Velasquez - On My Knees (English) lyrics
Video archive:TENNIS VIDEO: 1996 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Becker def. Chang final
TENNIS VIDEO: 1988 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Graf def. Evert final
TENNIS VIDEO: 1993 AUSTRALIAN OPEN Seles def. Graf in final
2">TENNIS VIDEO: AUSTRALIAN OPEN 1990 Steffi Graf def. Mary Joe Fernandez final
>MUSIC VIDEO: Jaci Velasquez solo tu live concert Guatemala (Spanish)
Blog: Mexico - Christmas means different things to different people, Tamales, corn and coffee.
Beauty at The Hopman Cup – Perth, Australia
January 6, 2009 at 9:14 am
I want to always remind myself…think positive!</span>
Clear blue sky. Webcam link.
Indoor arena for tennis – temperature 24C (75F); 46% humidity. Current weather link
Sunday worship music at Victory Christian Centre – Pastor Margaret Court’s church. MC link
16 players in the tournament – relaxed atmosphere, friendly faces from the players. 'The Hopman Cup' link
Fruit - fresh, sweet and all grown in Australia Sharing the Gospel message.
Disclaimer
- Everything on this blog is my personal opinion. And, since I reserve the right to change my mind (when I realize I am wrong) my opinions will probably change from time to time.
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My Online Status
TENNIS VIDEOS I WATCH ON YOUTUBE
- The 12 Grand Slams of Roger Federer
- Haas and Blake tiebreaker
- Henin and Mauresmo 2007
- Why I love tennis
- Becker vs Curren 1985
- Forest Hills
- Cash and Lendl 1987
- McEnroe and Wilander 1989
- Bryan Brothers
- Sanchez Vicario and Graf; Chang and Edberg 1989
- Navratilova and Graf 1993
- Evonne Goolagong
- Seles and Sabatini 1991
- Agassi Highlights
- ATP's play of the week
- Stefan Edberg
- McEnroe and Connors 1984
- Muster and Noah 1989
- Sampras and Agassi 2001
- Rios and Chang Part 2 1997
- Rios and Chang Part 1 1997
- Amazing tennis points
- Rafter and Korda 1997
- Becker and Ivanisevic 1990
- Chang and Leconte 1988
- Borotra
- Justin Henin
- Althea Gibson
- Steffi Graf vs Arantxa Sanchez 1994
- Monica Seles vs. Jennifer Capriati 1991
- Jimmy Conners
- Becker vs. Lendl 1986 Wimbledon
- Borg vs. Laver 1977
- Rosewall Ashe Interviews 1971
- 1958 River Forest Clay Court Tennis
- Margaret Court
- Grand Slam memories
- Sampras v.s Agassi
- Federer & Hewitt Best tennis rally
- Roger Federer slow motion
- Best of Roger Federer
- Tennis Legends of Wimbledon: Bjorn Borg Part 1
- Ilie Nastase
- Ashe interview
- Vilas vs Connors 1977
- Laver vs Borg 1977
- Ashe vs Rosewall 1971
OTHER BLOGS I READ
BOOKS I'M READING
- Days of Grace - Arthur Ashe
- Revolution in World Missions - K.P. Yohannan
- Every Nation in Our Generation - Rice Brooks
- Operation World - Patrick Johnstone and Jason Mandryk
- The Man In the Mirror - Patrick Morley
- The Purpose Driven Church - Rich Warren
- The Rest of Your Life - Patrick M. Morley
- Some Gave All - Ellen Caughey
- Living the Gold-Medal Life - Mary Lee Tracy
- Leadership Promises for Every Day - John C. Maxwell
WATCHING/LISTENING TO ON YOUTUBE...
- Another time another place - Sandi Patty and Wayne Watson
- How Great Thou Art - Sandi Patty
- His Eye Is On The Sparrow - Sandi Patty
- It Is Well With My Soul - 4Him
- The Story Behind the Song - It is Well With My Soul
- Holy Ground - Sandi Patty
- It was a morning like this - Sandi Patty
- No Other Name But Jesus - Sandi Patty
- In The Name of the Lord - Sandi Patty
- I Bowed On My Knees - Michael English
- More Than Wonderful - Sandi Patty and Larnelle Harris
- Love In Any Language - Sandi Patty
- Via Dolorosa - Sandi Patty
- Upon this Rock - Sandi Patty
- We Shall Behold Him - Sandi Patty
- Wonder Merciful Savior - Selah
- We Fall Down - Kutless
- I am a friend of God - Phillips, Craig & Dean
- Let It Rise - Big Daddy Weave
- Who Am I - Casting Crowns
- Famous One - Building 429
- Blessed be the name - Tree63
- In Christ Alone
- How Great is Our God - Christ Tomlin
- Beautiful One - By The Tree
- Big house - Audio Adrenaline
- Open the eyes of my heart lord
- Stomp - Kirk Franklin
- I Still Believe - Jeremy Camp
- He Reigns - Newsboys
- Letters From War- Mark Schultz
- He's My Son - Mark Schultz
- Walking Her Home - Mark Schultz
- I Have Been There - Mark Schultz
- Do You Even Know Me Anymore - Mark Schultz
- On My Knees - Jaci Velasquez
- My Redeemer lives. - Nicole Mullen
- How You Live - Point of Grace
- Circle of friends - Point Of Grace
- Jesus Will Still Be There - Point of Grace
- One of these days. - FFH
- Holy -Nichole nordeman
- Something Beautiful - Bill Gaither
- Through It All - By Bill Gaither
- God Gave Me Back My Tomorrows
- At the foot of the cross - Ray Boltz
- One drop of blood - Ray Boltz
- I will Praise the Lord - Ray Boltz
- The Hammer - Ray Boltz
- I Pledge Allegiance to the Lamb - Ray Boltz
- The Anchor Holds - Ray Boltz
- Watch the Lamb - Ray Boltz
- Feel the nails - Ray Boltz
- What Was I Supposed To Be - Ray Boltz
- What If I Give All - Ray Boltz
- Thank You - Ray Boltz
- Undivided - First Call
- My Tribute - Andrae Crouch
- Praise the Lord - The Imperials
- God makes All Things New - Steven Curtis Chapman
- Easter Song - 2nd Chapter of Acts
- A Heart Like Mine - Bryan Duncan
- Through all the Years - Sandi Patty and Bryan Duncan
- The Basics of Life - 4Him
- Butterfly Kisses - Bob Carlisle
- Thy Word - Amy Grant
- He Is Exalted - Twila Paris
- We Will Stand - Russ Taff
- Open Your Eyes - Keith Green
- Under The Influence - Anointed
- Beyond belief - Petra
- Scripture Song Medley - Keith Green
- I could sing of your love forever.- Delirious
- Song of Love - Rebecca St. James
- What if I Stumble - DC Talk
- Testify To Love - Avalon
- I Can Only Imagine - Mercy Me
- AGNUS DEI - Michael W. Smith
- Calling Out Your Name - Rich Mullins
- My Brother's Keeper
- Screen Door - Rich Mullins
- How Can I Keep Myself From Singing? - Rich Mullins
- Here in America - Rich Mullins
- Creed - Rich Mullins
- Rich Mullin concert part 1
- Rich Mullin concert part 2
- Rich Mullin concert part 3
- Rich Mullin concert part 4
- Rich Mullin concert part 5
- Rich Mullin concert part 6
- Rich Mullin concert part 7
- Rich Mullin concert part 8
- Rich Mullin concert part 10
- Rich Mullin concert part 11
- Rich Mullin concert part 12
- Rich Mullin concert part 13
- I see you. - Michael W. Smith
- Place in this world. - Michael W. Smith
- I will be here for you. - Michael W. Smith
- Friends - Michael W. Smith and Amy Grant
- Breathe - Michael W. Smith
- Holy Ground. - Sandy Patti
- Love in any language. - Sandy Patti
- We shall behold Him - Sandy Patti
- I have decided. - Amy Grant
- There is none like you.
- Hold me Jesus - Rich Mullins
- El Shaddai - Amy Grant
- For the Sake of the Call - Steven Curtis Chapman
- More to this life - Steven Curtis Chapman
- Hold on - Twila Paris
- Destiny - Twila Paris
- God is the strength of my heart - Don Moen
- I offer my Life - Don Moen
- I will sing - Don Moen
- God will Make a Way - Don Moen
- Give thanks - Don Moen
- My life is in you, Lord
- God of wonders - Chris Tomlin
- Come now is the time to worship
- Heart of Worship
- Blessed be the name - Matt Redman
- Lord I lift your name on high - Petra
- Shine Jesus Shine - Graham Kendrick
- The Champion - Carmen
- Joy in the journey - Michael Card
- One Faith - Michael Card and John Michael Talbot
- God's own fool - Micahel Card
- Step by Step - Rich Mullins
- Awesome God - Rich Mullins
- Above All - Michael W. Smith
- Warrior is a Child and Do I Trust You - Twila Paris
- When its all been said and done - Don Moen
- Shout to the Lord - Darlene Zschech
- His Strength - Steven Curtis Chapman
- Like Eagles - Don Mohn
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