The gospel according to Funk has Jesus playing a vital role
Posted
|
Jesus as a caddie?
That's the analogy that PGA player Fred Funk and author Ken Blanchard used Tuesday in talking about Christ's role in people's lives.
The two guest speakers gave humorous and inspirational talks at the annual Augusta Golf Breakfast at Warren Baptist Church, which was sponsored by the church and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes.
Nearly 1,000 people attended the event, eating a hot breakfast before heading to the sanctuary to hear musician Archie Jordan and a welcome by Mayor Deke Copenhaver, followed by the speakers.
Attendees filled the lower sanctuary and a portion of the balcony. Each received a copy of The Mulligan, which Blanchard wrote with former PGA golfer Wally Armstrong.
Blanchard, whose other books include The One-Minute Manager and Lead Like Jesus, said that Jesus was the "greatest servant leader" despite having "12 incompetent disciples" whom he would have fired.
"A caddie cannot hit shots for you, but he knows where your trouble is and he can help you. Isn't that the same with Jesus?" he said.
"He's ready to be your caddie for life."
Funk, who will play in his 12th Masters Tournament this week, said his wife, son and daughter travel with him.
He talked about the importance of family and faith, saying that his caddie's only concern is to keep Funk on track.
"Isn't that like Jesus?" he said.
Augusta National Golf Club is hallowed ground and an honor to play on, Funk said.
Asked about a memorable Masters story, Funk told of a time when he was invited to join Jack Nicklaus and Arnold Palmer for an 11 a.m. practice round at Augusta.
Funk was so nervous that he arrived at 7 a.m. Palmer jokingly warned him that Nicklaus was "always late" and "never pays up on his bets."
Funk and his teammate beat the legendary golfers and won $15.
"Haven't got paid yet," Funk said as laughter erupted. "So Arnie was right.
"He actually came up to me, this was like a year later, and he says, 'Jack ever pay you?' I go, 'No.' He says, 'Told you.'"
Reach C. Samantha McKevie at (706) 823-3552 or samantha.mckevie@augustachronicle.com.
