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Scotland Day 3

Women's Golf

Scotland Women’s Golf Mission Trip Reflection 3: Encountering God in the Game, the Kids, and the Beauty Around Us

Our day in Scotland was one of those days that leaves you physically tired but spiritually full — the kind of day that reminds you why you came in the first place.
We started, as always, with our morning devotional. Today it was Savannah Goodman who led us, and yesterday it was Savannah Howell. These daily moments — where our college girls share Scripture and a word of encouragement — are shaping the rhythm of our week. They're small but steady reminders that the day ahead isn't just about the game; it's about purpose, perspective, and presence.
From Haddington to North Berwick and all the way through a twilight round with kind members of the club, our team poured everything we had into three different golf camps spanning from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. It was a long day, but a beautiful one.

What inspired you today?
For many of us, the inspiration came from the kids. Their curiosity, their energy, their hearts.
Tzu Polito summed it up best: "Everyone's resilience and determination to maintain good attitudes and give it our all every step of the way." Even through long hours and physical fatigue, there was a drive — not just to show up, but to show love.
Christina Surcey shared how she was inspired by both the campers and her teammates: "I wanted to make camp special for the kids... While playing, I figured out that the boys in my group were Star Wars fans, so we talked about Star Wars for two holes. It was fun to see them light up." Inspiration comes in small moments like that — a reminder that connection often begins with listening, even if it's about galaxies far, far away.
Savannah Goodman was moved by a child's awe over their team gear: "It gave me a reminder of just how blessed I am to be a part of this school and team. This little boy, and little me, would do anything to be exactly where I am today." What a humbling way to see how far God has brought us.

How did you see or encounter God?
God showed up all day — in laughter, in the ocean breeze, in every face and moment of stillness.
Coach Shannon shared: "I encountered God today through watching the college girls give their utmost attention to each child... They did it with joy and great willingness. They postured genuine care and desire to help each child feel seen and known."
Sometimes God is not in the grand gestures but in how we listen, how we see people, how we make them feel valued.
Christina felt God's presence in the waves: "Today I saw God in the way the ocean made me feel at home... God has called me to this sport and this team." As a freshman from Florida, that connection was especially poignant — a reminder that God meets us where we are, even thousands of miles from home.
And of course, there was the beauty of Scotland itself. As Savannah Howell said, "Just the landscape... was amazing. It's so cool to think about how God has created the entire world and beautiful places like Scotland are everywhere we turn."

How do you feel you are growing?
Growth isn't always easy to spot in the moment, but this day made it clear: we are being stretched, refined, and strengthened.
Tzu reflected, "I feel myself growing in my patience and appreciation for the work I've done over the years — which is something I tend to undermine and hold to little regard." There's power in recognizing the value of your own journey.
Christina is seeing growth in how she connects with children: "I am learning how to be patient, kind, and fun." These camps aren't just impacting the kids — they're shaping who we are becoming as leaders, mentors, and people of faith.

Something that impacted your heart?
Sometimes it's one child, one conversation, one question that stays with you.
Tzunami shared: "One child really stood out to me. His energy was incredible and his attitude put much into perspective."
Savannah Howell had a sweet moment with a little girl who asked, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" That simple question led to a meaningful exchange about dreams and direction. Sometimes kids ask the questions adults forget to.

To finish the night, we gathered around a table for dinner and laughter — fellowship that tasted just as sweet as anything we experienced on the course. There's something so sacred in the simplicity of ending a full day with full hearts.
We're tired, yes. But we're filled — with gratitude, with purpose, and with the quiet assurance that God is right here with us. On the greens, in the car rides, in the conversations, in every child's face. And in each other. 
So grateful for fellowship through golf. We look forward to similar schedule on Thursday. 
 
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Players Mentioned

Christina Surcey

Christina Surcey

Sophomore
Savannah Goodman

Savannah Goodman

Freshman
Savannah Howell

Savannah Howell

Senior

Players Mentioned

Christina Surcey

Christina Surcey

Sophomore
Savannah Goodman

Savannah Goodman

Freshman
Savannah Howell

Savannah Howell

Senior
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