I've been enjoying the Olympics these past few weeks.  It never ceases to amaze me the physical shape that these men and women are in to perform the feats that they do.  Those who are fortunate enough to medal find themselves on the podium.  You can sense the pride and accomplishment on their faces while their necks are adorned with the fruit of their labor, gold, silver, bronze.  Then as their nations' anthem is played and the flags are raised, more often than not, the tears come.  And who could blame them? All the years of hard work and sacrifice, dreaming of this moment. Their goal achieved.  Mission accomplished.

I can't help think about The Father welcoming home the saints with the words, "well done good and faithful servant" while wiping away every tear from their eyes.  The Apostle Paul uses this imagery to describe the life of Christ in the Spirit.

"Everyone who competes in the games exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Therefore I run in such a way as not without aim, I box in such a way as not beating the air; but I buffet my body and make it my slave lest possibly after I have preached to others I myself should be disqualified." (1 Corinthians 9:25-27).

This life can be painful struggle; the world a cruel task master.  But we know that "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared to the glory that is to be revealed to us." (Romans 8:18)

No one will mistake many of us for Olympic athletes.  But their dedication and commitment to the goal certainly can serve to inspire us in the race we are called to run, with our eyes fixed on Jesus (Hebrews 12:1).  And the prize received at the finish line will endure long after those medals of gold, silver and bronze have turned to dust.  Keep running!

Blessings,


Pastor John
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