Tuesday Traditions : Praying the Lines

Every season, before the practices start, the upper classmen are invited to a special midnight practice slash ritual. This practice allows us to start the season at the very first moment available, and is a fun way to begin what is an intense tennis season.

However, we also pray the lines. Praying the lines was something I first did as a player. It simply involves walking the lines of a tennis court while praying to God honestly. As far as rituals and traditions go, it is fairly simple. But I believe it is powerful.

I usually have players pray the lines of the court that they will be playing on. This last year, it was pretty simple, because we basically knew what the positions would be. This coming year it will be harder. The idea, however, is that we invite the presence and blessing of God to go before us in this place where we will invest so much effort.

It's not a magical prayer to win every match.

It's not a prayer of cursing that our opponents will go down in flames.

It's a loving prayer that God will honor the work that we put in in this place. That we will be reminded to take the attitude of Christ when we walk on the court. That God will teach us to take on the character of Christ in our practices and matches. And that it will go well with us.

It's a prayer of peace.

I love this time of the year, when we walk slowly through the night. I love watching our players take faith and prayer seriously. It's an amazing thing to see and participate in. Thanks to those of you who have prayed in the past, and continue to do so today.