I love the Olympics. It is an amazing showcase of excellence that happens every four years. I enjoy hearing the stories of the individuals who qualify to compete for their countries, of dreams that began at a young age while watching other Olympians. There are stories of competitors who overcome great odds to earn a place on the podium and receive a medal, or surprise champions who score higher than the favorites.
What has always impressed me about Olympic competitors is their dedication and sacrifice in the quest to be the best they can be. They keep to a regular schedule, eat a diet that will provide energy and strength, and they cut away everything that is a distraction to focus on their goal.
Because the New Testament was written during the time of the Roman Empire, the writer of the book of Hebrews was familiar with contests like the Olympic games that challenged and tested individuals. And while most of us are not running a 100-meter race, or swimming a 200-meter butterfly, we are called to demonstrate excellence in a different way.
Hebrews chapter 11 is a recounting of many heroes who experienced challenges but kept their faith. People like Noah, Abraham, Moses, Gideon, David and many other unnamed persons are described. They showed us what it means to live in faith on a daily basis, and what sacrifices that can involve.
Hebrews 12: 1 says, “Do you see what this means—all these pioneers who blazed the way, all these veterans cheering us on? It means we’d better get on with it. Strip down, start running—and never quit! No extra spiritual fat, no parasitic sins. Keep your eyes on Jesus, who both began and finished this race we’re in.” (Message)
We are called to do our best and to be disciplined like athletes. In I Corinthians 9:25, the Apostle Paul said, “Athletes in training are very strict with themselves, exercising self-control over desires, and for what? For a wreath that soon withers or is crushed or simply forgotten. That is not our race. We run for the crown that we will wear for eternity.” (Voice)
Be excellent today. Choose to do what will please God, even when it is hard. Spend time in the Bible learning about Him and then share that with others. Pass those truths to your children, wherever you are. Remember, we are marathon runners and our finish line is not even on this earth. Our prize is not a gold medal or championship title, but a heavenly reward that cannot tarnish or fade away.