Friday; July 23

I have mixed emotions about the 2021 Olympics. First and foremost, I hope that all the athletes will be safe and none of them will endanger their health by participating. I am thankful that we have the opportunity to watch the best athletes from around the world compete against each other – and in some cases, against their own “best”. Yet, there is something that concerns me – will the athletes be competing for themselves or for their nation? Will they use this stage as a way to promote their personal brand (or their own social agenda) or will they do their best to represent their nation to the best of their ability? Call me old fashioned, but I think national pride still has a place in the international event.

As I have thought about this, it got me to thinking about our spiritual lives. If we call ourselves Christians, are we promoting the cause of our Lord and Savior or are we using our Christianity as a way to push our beliefs and agendas? Does our spotlight shine on us or on the One who gave us a new life? The Apostle Paul, who was a star in his own right, wrote, ”I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself up for me.” (Galatians 2:20). Christianity is about setting aside our own lives while promoting the awesomeness of God. When we wear the name Christian, Jesus must become the focus for any victory we win or any notoriety we gain.

Let’s hope that the world (and our nation) can come together to celebrate the spirit of the Olympics. As we cheer on our favorite athletes, let’s remember the race we are running in our own spiritual lives. Thankfully, to be rewarded as Christians we don’t have to come in first, we just need to faithfully finish our race.

Think About It!

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