08.08.08 - That's the date for the opening ceremonies of the Olympics. I always enjoy watching the Olympics. I believe the purest form of athleticism is exhibited in track and field events. I also enjoy learning some of the personal triumphs of the athletes. Some of these stories are really inspiring. Over the next few days I want to share some of these stories with you and hopefully they will inspire you, or re-inspire you to run the Christian race with diligence.

The Apostle Paul must have had some interest in athletics, because he frequently used the games as illustrations for his messages. He was familiar, not only with the Olympics of his day, but with all the other ancient games. And just like a good teacher today, the apostle Paul sometimes used sports allusions to illustrate his sermons and writings. Like in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27: (The Message)

24-25 You've all been to the stadium and seen the athletes race. Everyone runs; one wins. Run to win. All good athletes train hard. They do it for a gold medal that tarnishes and fades. You're after one that's gold eternally.
26-27 I don't know about you, but I'm running hard for the finish line. I'm giving it everything I've got. No sloppy living for me! I'm staying alert and in top condition. I'm not going to get caught napping, telling everyone else all about it and then missing out myself.

So there is precedent for drawing spiritual lessons from the world of athletics, and perhaps even from the Olympic Games themselves. And I hope over the next few days we can be inspired to run for the gold. To persevere through tough times and win that prize that never fades away.

Pastor Tim