Gael Monfils, Miomir Kecmanovic, and Andrey Rublev are three players who openly profess their religious beliefs. When I say religious, I do not mean their “religious dedication” to their routines to achieve their tennis goals and fame. Religious means their spirituality, more specific, their Christian spirituality. Over the next few weeks, become mindful of how many players make the sign of the cross at the end of their matches. Also, take note of how many players are wearing “a cross” as a pendant on their chains. Then ask this question: What are they professing by wearing a cross?

Discuss Politics And Religion If You Want To Stir The Pot

Perhaps it is time to stir the pot. In a world that has gone completely crazy, one has to wonder where is the stabilizing force? Christianity is the stabilizing force of many. The cross is a fundamental symbol of the Christian faith. It represents the death of Jesus Christ for our salvation and reminds us of the fact that Christ overcame death by His resurrection, and we too will overcome death. There is good and bad in every person. Christians pray daily for the strength and courage to overcome the bad within. Still, how do you separate their tennis game from the acts of the man or woman that goes against what you believe? As a Christian, we are told not to judge another person, for we are all guilty of doing bad. Yet, you cannot help it when some players behave in ways that reflect poorly on their professed Christianity.

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Understand That Nothing In Life Is Guaranteed

Many tennis players who make the sign of the cross and wear a cross as a pendant probably leave you shocked by their behavior. I read recently that good intentions are not an excuse for bad behavior. I get their enthusiasm and passion for the sport; however, they must remember that they are role models for Christianity. Their on-court behavior is being observed by many non-believers, who will be left with the wrong impression about Christianity. We understand that they are human and will occasionally make emotional mistakes. However, when it becomes their trademark, you are left wondering, “What are they really professing?”

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Players Today Demonstrate Ignorance

Before you think this is harsh, understand ignorance here means, ignoring the fact that their careers can come to an end abruptly. By the grace of God, they have been blessed with amazing gifts and many take them for granted. I really appreciate when they give thanks at the end of their matches, a sign of honor and praise. I also admire their respectful attitude towards their opponents. Sure, not all respectful players are Christians; nevertheless, I especially like to see the players who profess their religious beliefs behaving in a way that demonstrates brotherly love and compassion. American Coco Gauff may be the setting the trend on how Christian players should behave on court.

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