First Baptist Church of Herndon

Gold Medal Spectator

Linda Soller | Aug 27, 2012

What is there not to like about the Olympics? The Olympics has something for everyone; competition to match any sporting event, drama that tops the best soap operas, controversy that the media couldn’t make up, human interest that can make tough men cry, and if that is not enough, this year’s summer Olympics share the lovely scenery that draws us to the British shows on PBS. I mean, really, is it any wonder so many of us watch? We watch in awe at the things the athletes are able to accomplish and sometimes we think of when we took part in those same sports ourselves. I was particularly touched by the story of Chen Guanming, a Chinese farmer, who traveled from China in a Rickshaw just to get to London to experience the Olympic games and show support for the athletes who would be competing. It took him two years to make the journey. He traveled through all types of weather conditions, through 16 different countries, to make his dream come true. I think he should get the Gold medal for being the most dedicated spectator.

When it comes to faith we often find ourselves on the sidelines filling the roles of spectators. We look proudly at the missionaries, at the ministers, at the writers who advance our faith by touching the lives of others. We admire those who use their God given gifts to help others to keep things going in our churches and communities. We sit in church and cheer on the choir, admire the flowers, hand our children over to the Sunday school teachers and nursery workers, we give thanks for the week of Vacation Bible School, and we take pride in all that is done to help others day in and day out by loving congregations all over the world. It is easy to forget that each of us has gifts.

I will never be an Olympic athlete, a fact I have known for a very long time, but I love to watch those who strive to be the best they can be. This year as I watched the Olympics I found myself asking if I really wanted to be a spectator when it comes to my faith. This week as you drive past a church or a homeless shelter, or a food kitchen, or any place where God is at work in your community, ask yourself this simple question: Can I be content watching as others work and serve God? Do I really want to win for being a spectator? Have a great week :o)

Linda