Tiger Woods, the world's greatest golfer, has recently been involved in a public scandal after his multiple affairs have come to the surface. His marriage is on the rocks and he has put his golfing career on hold as he tries to repair the damage caused to his family and his public reputation. Decisions have consequences and once trust is broken it is very hard to rebuild. It's a sad story ... whatever way you look at it.
What would Jesus say to Tiger?
That's an interesting question ...
A few ideas may spring to mind such as "Be sure your sins will find you out," "You reap what you sow", "What is done in secret will be shouted from the roof tops," and maybe "Pride goes before a fall."
What do you think Jesus would say?
Maybe Jesus would approach Tiger in a similar way as he did the woman caught in the act of adultery. The religious leaders were ready to stone her but Jesus said ...
"Neither do I condemn you ..." That was grace - a grace ready to forgive and ready to lift of the guilt and shame of a person who had broken the law and made wrong choices (what the Bible calls 'sin').
Then he said, "Go and sin no more." That was truth - a recognition that sin dishonors God and that it brings great damage to our lives. Obviously, we need the help of the Spirit to break the power of sin and to live life the way God designed it to be lived. Jesus assumed that this woman could learn from her mistakes and make different choices from that moment on.
One of Jesus' closest disciples, John, described Jesus as full of grace and truth (John 1:14). May we become more like Him every day.
Why not offer a prayer up for Tiger ... that somehow, in this situation that has been caused by his own choices, he will turn to and find a God that is full of grace and truth.
What Would Jesus Say to Tiger Woods?
Perhaps "May He who is without Sin, whack the first ball" ...?
Posted by: Lionfish: Richard | December 15, 2009 at 08:16 AM
Very sad to hear. It's very tough when trust is betrayed, and wounded emotions cut deep. Hope they can work it out.
Posted by: Marija Thornton | December 15, 2009 at 10:26 AM
"I've made you a Tiger, why did you turn into a Cheetah?"
Posted by: J-o-h-n (Brisvegas) N-i-l-a-s | December 16, 2009 at 02:51 PM
Great Question. Deuteronomy 6:5 - Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.
Posted by: Mike | December 18, 2009 at 10:27 PM
Praying in agreement, with you Mark, according to God's heart. Offering up a prayer for Tiger ... that somehow, in this situation that has been caused by his own choices, he will turn around in repentance and find a God who is full of grace and truth ... and not only Tiger, but his wife and mistresses as well!
Posted by: Marija Thornton | December 19, 2009 at 09:13 AM
PS Are they (Tiger and God) currently on speaking terms?!
Posted by: Helen | December 21, 2009 at 12:22 PM
Ps. Helen... Only God knows :)
Posted by: Marija Thornton | December 21, 2009 at 12:59 PM
Mark,
We have three families on holiday.
This evening we discussed whether God has a point where he can no longer tolerate our disobedience or unacceptable behaviour/choices and therefore no longer forgive us.
Is there an unforgivable sin? A point of no return with God?
Some of us think he must punish sin. Others that God will just keep on forgiving. Others, that God will forgive but only in circumstances like the Prodigal Son. And then others who think that regardless of continuing in disobedience or asking for forgiveness there are consequences that cannot be avoided.
Your thoughts?
Thanks.
Posted by: Lucky Phil | January 08, 2010 at 10:42 PM
I recently discovered my husband commenced an affair a few days prior to Christmas.
Over the past 12 months, I forgave his infinity of lies for his intense gambling addiction, abuse/mental health illness, yet that only seemed to encourage him to push the next boundary - adultery.
How about we also highlight the need to pray for peace to enter Tiger's wife & children's hearts.
I have no doubt how they must be suffering during this intense, hurtful time. My children are also of a very similar age, and as a mother you don't get to switch of a light to rest or alternatively have an ability to just walk away....
Posted by: Marian | January 22, 2010 at 10:26 PM
Thank you so much for your comments, Marian. Yes, the innocent party often gets the least attention in situations such as this.
I am so sorry to hear about your own situation and pray for God's grace, wisdom and strength for you. I also hope you have some 'safe people' to help you journey through this time.
Posted by: Mark Conner | February 03, 2010 at 04:30 PM