The Masters' Responsibility

A key reason we love the Masters is because of its great tournament traditions. The Green Jacket ceremony in Butler Cabin and the winner’s ceremony in front of the members are special scenes to witness.  However, this year’s unbelievable scenario involving Jordan Spieth’s tumble into second place made the festivities rather unique. As the 2015 winner, Spieth had the responsibility to “crown” the new Masters' champ, Danny Willett, with his own prized Green Jacket. I can’t imagine how difficult that experience must have been for Spieth, considering he had a chance to make history with another Masters win before losing his 5-stroke lead on the back 9 and scoring a quadruple-bogey on the 12th hole. Instead, moments after his devastating collapse he’s congratulating Willett, putting on a happy face, and participating in the tradition of giving the new Masters' champ his Green Jacket. What stands out to me when thinking about this emotional and challenging situation, is the fact that Spieth lived up to his responsibility as the reigning champ and Masters’ ambassador. He showed respect by putting his own pride, frustrations, and devastating feelings to the side. Although not easy, he stepped up and did what he needed to do in the best way he possibly could. In our own lives, we find ourselves in situations where we have to choose responsibility over emotions. We are accountable to our spouses, kids, parents, and bosses, and sometimes following through with what needs to be done isn’t easy. We may not want to show up or we’re in a bad mood or we’re dealing with something that’s weighing us down. But other people are counting on us, regardless of the difficulties we face. As followers of Jesus, we have a responsibility to obey and pursue God’s will, despite life being hard. We demonstrate this responsibility by living out what the Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:20 (ESV): “Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us…” Jordan Spieth was a great representative for golf and the Masters, even during these difficult moments of his life. Today let’s be challenged to be a great representative of Jesus, even when tested and times are tough. I’m Bryce Johnson and you can unpack that! PRAYER: Heavenly Father, forgive me for the times I haven't been a good ambassador for Jesus. Also, forgive me for the times I've given in to emotions and feelings, and didn't live up to my responsibilities. Please give me the strength to represent Jesus well, and show people my love for You by remaining obedient and responsible...even when life is hard. I pray this in Jesus' name, Amen.