…the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many. (Matthew 20:28)
He was the first lefty to win a USGA championship, winning the 1988 U.S. Amateur Public Links, which earned him an invitation to play in the 1989 Masters. His name is permanently etched on the James Standish Trophy and a wall panel inside the Hall of Champions at the USGA Museum for 1988.
His name is Ralph Howe. He was a U.S. Walker Cup Team member in 1989 and a former tour professional. He was on the path to a PGA Tour career, which included playing some mini Tour events in South Florida.
In one event, he was paired with Gary Nicklaus, son of the legendary Jack Nicklaus, who would be Gary’s caddy for the tournament. If that wasn’t enough intimidation for Ralph, the course they were playing, Bear Lakes, was designed by Jack Nicklaus.
Jack had several pleasant exchanges with Ralph, even complimenting him on good shots. After blasting out of a bunker, Ralph was startled to see Jack walk over, take his golf ball, and start cleaning it while Ralph’s caddy was busy raking the bunker.
In complete shock, Ralph stood in awe as he watched arguably the best golfer in the world, Jack Nicklaus, serve him and clean his golf ball. Smiling and giving that famous wink, Jack tossed the ball back to Ralph.
Not one to pass up a good opportunity, Ralph said, “Hey Jack” as he tossed the ball back to him; you missed a spot! Jack caught the ball, cleaned it meticulously, and once again threw it back with a big grin.
Let that sink in for a minute, as Ralph did. That’s the legendary Jack Nicklaus, the creator of the course where you’re playing and the best player in the world. He’s not your caddy, but he is caddying and in your group, and he is serving you.
Do you find it interesting that the greatest in all of history, Jesus, the creator of all things, has come to earth and shown us through his life what greatness looks like—serving others? It’s been said that greatness is to “Love like the Savior and Lead like a Servant.”
Jesus is ready to walk with each of us, and by faith, we can receive his gift of mercy and grace and allow him to lead us through this course of life.
After the round was completed, Ralph was walking to his car and heard someone running after him and calling his name. Turning around, he saw Jack running after him, saying, “Ralph, do you have a minute? I wanted to tell you I noticed some really good things you did today and some things I might help you improve… if you would like to take a minute and let’s go over your round together”.
Did Ralph say thanks, Jack, but I’m on my way to Burger King? Of course not! The Golden Bear is offering to help you, and you would be crazy not to accept the offer.
Links Friends….the King of the universe is running after us, pursuing us, and desiring us to grow in maturity as His children. He is working all things for his glory and our good. Toss him all you have; he won’t miss a spot!
Prayer: Jesus, thank you for showing us how to serve others by your example.