The Olympics in Paris Are Here!

100 years ago the Summer Olympic Games were held in the city of Paris. One of the most interesting stories of the games centered around Scotland’s sprinter Eric Liddell. The story was immortalized in the 1981 film Chariots of Fire.

Liddell, who was the favorite for the gold medal in the 100 Meters, along with fellow Brit Harold Abrams, discovered the heats for the race were scheduled to be run on a Sunday. Besides being a track and rugby star, Liddell was also a missionary in China, having lived there with his parents before and after the Olympics.

Great Britain took Liddell out of the 100 Meters and entered him instead in the 400 Meters, which was not a distance he was rated as highly. The morning of the final race, one of his team masseurs handed him a note with this written on it:

"In the old book it says: 'He that honours me I will honour.' Wishing you the best of success always." 1 Samuel 2:30

Liddell was touched that someone recognized the stance he had taken. In the finals of the 400 Meters, Liddell was relegated to an outside lane, which meant he would run the whole race without being able to see any of his competitors, but he was confident in his chances.

“I believe God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast!

And when I run I feel his pleasure.”

God has gifted each of us in different ways and delights in us using those gifts in service to others and his glory. I hope you will enjoy the games and watch for the sheer delight of the athletes in their competitions, not just in the winning.

See you in church!