I was surrounded by a group of thirty Kenyans, all watching me with eager eyes, listening to my every word. Among them were Muslim and Hindu men and women, looking to me for help in their golfing struggles.
This was the norm for each of my clinics. “Please help me with my swing.” I would give them some basic instructions on the fundamentals (PGA: Posture, Grip, Alignment), check their grip, alignment and such, and take a slow motion video with my iPhone. After a little help, their shots would improve. “Here’s my contact information, please send me the video of my swing,” they would ask. They would stand there and listen patiently while I talked about Jesus, who He is, why He died, how He came into my life as my Lord and Savior, and what His forgiveness and love has meant for me.
It astounds me that these people would see me as an authority (because of my golf skills), they would seek me out, and then I could tell them about Jesus. “Can I be in your group, Susie?” Never would I have foreseen a Muslim man wanting me to help him, and listening intently. Athletes in Action believes sports is a great vehicle to share the gospel, and it was thrilling to see God at work when I shared the gospel on the course.
I was in Kenya from December 29-January 10th and played 99 holes of golf, led five clinics, gave my testimony (along with the rest of my team) 16 times. I led a Bible study for the wives at a pastor’s conference in the slums of Nairobi. I helped in the discipleship of our young college and professional golfers we brought with us on our team.
Even though my golf is not as good as when I was ranked tenth in the U.S. and playing golf for the University of Arizona, I was still able to use my skills and knowledge to further the gospel of Jesus Christ by reaching people that would otherwise go unreached. This was very fulfilling for me. The leadership responsibilities I had on this trip also helped me to grow in my confidence and personal development.
I am so thankful. I invite you to watch the video of my teaching and sharing the gospel in Africa on this website.
