Olympic Gold

“…walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him….” (Colossians 1:10, Christian Standard Bible)

His daughter, Chloe Kim, had just won the Olympic* Gold Medal for Snowboarding’s Halfpipe. The Olympic Gold Medal … at only17! A photographer snapped a picture of Jong-Jin Kim side hugging the bronze medalist’s father, a look of pure joy reflected on his face.

Seeing the joy mirrored in her father’s eyes I realized I had glimpsed a dim view of the joy You must feel when we faithfully follow Your lead, winning the race set before us (whatever it might be). How bright the light of love and pride must burn in Your countenance when, despite the worst odds, the overwhelming “big hairy scary” giants of life or the quiet nagging fears, we choose to be faithful, purpose to follow Your lead and trust You.

Oh Lord, help me to be bold, to return Your blessings, blessing You with my unconditional love, trust, and faithful obedience. May I purpose to bring pride and joy to Your countenance, winning whatever race You set before me.

*2018 Olympic Winter Games, PyeongChang, South Korea