So, the Olympics have finally begun!
I expect many of us watched the spectacular opening ceremony along the River Seine in the pouring rain on last Sunday evening. I have to say the tableau on the bridge with a group of trans women depicting the Last Supper completely passed me by (an overdose of strange depictions and unknown persona, probably!) but when it was pointed out and I began to read others’ comments I was sickened but not surprised. The tragedy is that probably most folk would not have seen a problem with it. Fortunately, we have a Christian Press that has made their outrage known.
Back to the Olympics, however. One thing that amazed me on Sunday evening was how many countries had sent athletes to compete, even the smallest and newest ones, and how many are competing peaceably together though their own countries are at war or certainly not at peace with each other.
The modern games were founded in 1894 by Pierre de Coubertin and his aim was to build a peaceful and better world by educating young people through sport. The first games were held in Athens in 1896.
The tragedy is, however, that the First World War, “the war to end all wars” began 22 years later in Europe and the total death toll was estimated to be 40 million.
The wonder is, however, that despite all the wars and animosities that have gone on since, and are still continuing, the Games go on from strength to strength. They have continued despite wars and pandemics (held a year later!), and to win a race in their discipline continues to be the aim of every athlete.
Which takes us to the Bible which talks a lot about running and finishing the race. It likens our life as a follower of Christ to a marathon (not a sprint)! The book of Hebrews talks about the race set before us and the need for perseverance. The Apostle Timothy said at the end of his life, that he had finished the race and kept the faith but Galatians talks about someone or something cutting in and stopping us from completing the race.
It’s not easy being a Christian. There are hurdles and distractions all along the way. We sometimes end up going down a wrong route or coming to a big barrier. There will be folk who will try and distract us or trip us up. Sometimes we get tired and think it’s not worth keeping going, but that’s a lie perpetrated by our enemy, the devil who will do all he can to get us off the track.
Two things are important though. One is that there is a prize (not a gold medal) but a crown, for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus, and that means his presence for ever.
The greatest and best thing of all is, however, that we have a companion, a fellow runner, a guide, a shepherd, a friend, and that is Jesus himself by the power of his Holy Spirt. We cannot ask for more. We do often forget that we are not alone though. Psalm 23 reminds us that though our path may take us through the darkest places we need not be afraid because God is with us and he will provide strength and comfort every day.
May you run the race well, may you know God’s presence with you every day and one day win the crown in his presence.
Revd Lis