Blessed are those who persevere under trial, because when they have stood the test, they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. (Jas 1:12)
Wayde van Niekerk’s win in the 400m at the World Athletic Championships in Beijing was the highlight of the week for me. I was so excited for the race that I added Biejing’s time onto my phone so that I could immediately check the results. What a race! Its the first time three athletes have broken 44 seconds in the same race with Wayde taking gold in the sixth fastest time ever (only 3 athletes have ever run faster). He gave his all – so much so that he needed to be checked out in hospital as a precautionary measure.
South Africans are, of course, proud of Wayde. But his win is special for believers too because Wayde humbly and publicly acknowledges his faith. Athletes also inspired New Testament writers who saw rigorous daily training and undistracted focus when racing as a metaphor for the life of faith. Winners in ancient Greece received a woven crown (as opposed to a medal); if we remain faithful to Christ we receive the crown of life (see 1 Cor. 9:24f; 2 Tim. 2:5, 4:7; Heb. 12:1).
We’re athletes: the spiritual disciplines are training; our life-witness is the race; our goal is Love. Fight the good fight, finish the race, keep the Faith- go for gold!
God Bless, Sean