Game On
I don't know what you think about the Olympics, but ready or not, the Games begin this Friday in Paris. It seems to me that even if you've never competed in sports yourself, the Olympics are still compelling. Every four years, most of the world comes together. We cheer on our nation or other nations and our favorite athletes. We'll hear lots of stories about this but you can’t help admire the determination, training, and dedication that it took for these athletes to make it to the Olympics. America has a population of over 341 million people, yet only 592 are on Team USA. It's hard to grasp how hard they've trained for this moment.
In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, the Apostle Paul says, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize. Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever. Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air. No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.”
Olympic athletes arrange their lives to train and condition themselves as best they can in order to go for the gold. It requires intense focus, determination, perseverance, and discipline. Paul compares the Christian life to this type of training for sports and competition. He says "run in such a way as to get the prize." It's this pursuit of God and pursuit of godliness that requires a total commitment. Like an athlete, however, sometimes our focus and resolve wanes. Life can beat us down and cause us to struggle. But don't lose heart. Like a good coach, God is present with us exhorting and encouraging us to stay the course. In our relationship with the Lord, persevering and finishing strong is more important than how we start. And the glory we receive is not just for a medal or a moment on the podium, but one that endures for all eternity with our Lord and Savior.
Blessings,
Pastor Darren
