"It has been obvious to me from very early on that it's a talent and gift from God. But tennis has never been the love of my life."~ Michael Chang
Despite having won the French Open & Grand Slam Champion at age 17, the now 35-year old, retired tennis star Michael Chang shared that Jesus--not tennis--is the love of his life.
Last night at the Pasadena Church of Nazarene, we watched some short video clips of Michael Chang's ligntning-quick reflexes and agility in past tennis matches before welcoming him on stage. With the theme "Finding the love of your life," he gently stated, "It has been obvious to me from very early on that it's a talent and gift from God. But tennis has never been the love of my life."
His championship at the 1989 French Open, which happened shortly after the June 4 Tiananmen Square Events that saddened especially all Chinese around the world, caused him to understand why God made him Chinese and let him win some matches that were impossible for him to win. God wanted to put a smile on the Chinese faces through him winning when there wasn't much anything else to be cheerful about, Chang explained.
I was inspired by the way Michael Chang viewed his talent as a gift from God & as a tool to bless others. He recognized it from early on, and he is using it to its full-extent with determination, focus, and passion. I can't help but be reminded of another athlete, Eric Liddel, whose legacy continues to inspire.
Such beautiful lives.
* Photo downloaded from www.mchang.com
1 comment:
Thanks for sharing. It lit the fire in my heart to see how God uses his people in incredible ways, that is when the person being used recognizes he is a precious tool of God and acknowledges the importance of God in his life.
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