A youth ministry initiative by RBC Ministries
where you can find devotionals and resources for youth.
A youth ministry initiative by RBC Ministries
where you can find devotionals and resources for youth.
By Chaz Oswald, 22, USA
Gold medalist Kaitlyn Jones of United States (centre), flanked by bronze medalist Barbora
Zavadova of Czech Republic (left) and silver medalist Kristina Kochetkova of Russia (right)
Photo: SPH-SYOGOC/Neville Hew
Excitement and emotion flooded the face of 16-year-old Kaitlyn Jones as she clinched the first Youth Olympic gold medal of her swimming career on Sunday, August 15th, 2010.
Completing the 200m individual medley with an astounding time of 2:14.53, she has received honorable recognition as the first athlete in the Youth Olympics Games 2010 to collect a gold for Team USA. Following the race, Kaitlyn said, “At my next big meet I’ll remember this moment and how proud I am, and go after that [gold] again.”
The Apostle Paul noted a similar quest for victory as he encouraged Timothy in his Christian walk. He said, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:7-8 NLT).
As with sports competitions, we need to make adequate preparations for this spiritual race that Paul talks about. On average, an Olympic athlete spends eight hours every single day to maintain flawless skill and technique, and to keep his or her body in top condition. Similarly, we are to give ourselves spiritual training by immersing ourselves in praying and reading God’s Word. This is the only way to obtain the strength and stamina needed to last until the finish line.
The path to the finish line of the race is anything but easy. In physical training, we tire with the exertion. We grow so weary that we just want to give up. But just as an athlete cherishes the thought of winning the esteemed gold medal, Christians can take strength in focusing on Christ, as well as the prize that awaits those who complete the race. For at the conclusion of the Christian race, the future holds a mighty moment in which the Lord will reward the faithful on the Day He returns.
You may not be an Olympic athlete, and there may not be a literal gold medal in your future. But for those who love and desire Christ’s appearing, and who put their faith in Him, a glorious crown will one day be bestowed upon them–those who have fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.
