We’ve been having fun watching the Olympics on TV! The determination of the athletes is amazing, and reminds us of what Paul wrote in Philippians. Do we have that singular focus to reach our spiritual goals?
I am particularly touched when an athlete gives credit to Jesus for his or her success and athletic ability. David Boudia and Steele Johnson won the silver medal in men’s synchronized platform diving, and what they said afterwards was impactful.
“There’s been an enormous amount of pressure. I’ve felt it,” said David. “It’s just an identity crisis. When my mind is on this [diving], and I’m thinking I’m defined by this, then my mind goes crazy. But we both know that our identity is in Christ, and we’re thankful for this opportunity to be able to dive in front of Brazil and in front of the United States. It’s been an absolutely thrilling moment for us.”
Steele went on to say, “The way David just described it was flawless – the fact that I was going into this event knowing that my identity is rooted in Christ and not what the result of this competition is just gave me peace … and it let me enjoy the contest,” Johnson told NBC. “If something went great, I was happy. If something didn’t go great, I could still find joy because I’m at the Olympics competing with the best person, the best mentor – just one of the best people to be around. God’s given us a cool opportunity, and I’m glad I could come away with an Olympic silver medal in my first-ever event.”
Our identity is rooted in Christ. Not in what we do for a career, not what has happened to us, not any of the things that the world tells us our identify should be rooted in. Our identity is rooted in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Let’s all determine today to have a stronger relationship with Christ, to daily seek His will in our lives, and to press toward the goal of heaven!
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.
— Philippians 3:14 (NKJV) —
