The Masters

This has been one of the most memorable weekends in Master's golf history. The course was pristine as it is each year. The weather was very good and provided picturesque images of this major event.

There were two golfers who had a similar story, but completely different outcomes. Both golfers were away from their sport for a number of months because of their wives. Much of the hype surrounding the 2010 Masters Tournament was focused on Tiger Woods' return to golf. His absence from golf is well documented. After his is multiple sexual affairs, he lost many of his sponsors, and it is still to be determined if he will keep his wife and family.

Another golfer missed many of the 2009 season tournaments. After finding out that his wife, Amy, had been diagnosed with breast cancer, Phil Mickelson decided to faithfully stand beside her and give his entire attention to his bride. After winning this year's Master's Championship, he walked over to his wife and they shared an intimate moment for all to see. It wasn't show for the cameras, it was a display of two lives shared. Amy has been there throughout Phil's career by being present at many of his tournaments. When she needed his support, he was there willingly with his presence. Their love for one another is obvious and refreshing given today's culture.

I admittedly have been a Tiger fan from the beginning. He rarely let his fans down when leading going into "red Sunday." And many times when I tried to cheer for Phil, he would find some way to let a lead slip away. And going into this year's Master's Tournament, I was hoping for another miraculous fist pumping win from Tiger. However, after learning of Phil and Amy's story I have can't help but cheer the both of them on. Not only this weekend, but in all of their endeavors. How beautiful it is to see a true champion in every sense of the word.

We might not all be able to compete in the world of professional sports. But we can all be champions in our own right. Being a champion is more about who you are then winning tournaments. Zig Ziglar said, “It was character that got us out of bed, commitment that moved us into action, and discipline that enabled us to follow through.” You can listen here to a message I recently preached called "Commitment Rocks."