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Hello again from Chalfont St. Peter! We are wrapping up the week with a youth event this evening, and gearing up for what we expect to be a brilliant event Sunday, as we broadcast the closing ceremonies on a 40 square meter big screen! From VBS style lessons in the morning, to open sports playing each afternoon, and special events every evening, our days have been chalk full of fun and good conversations.
It has been incredible to experience the Olympics in a hometown setting. The atmosphere here is teeming with British pride and I can just imagine what it would have been like to be in Atlanta during the 96’ games. BBC has done a fantastic job of highlighting their athletes in every event whether they are medal contenders or not. Watching interviews with each athlete has given an interesting inside look to the life and perspective of the British athletes. As I reflect on the life of an athlete and the pressure to perform, I remember what it was like to base my worth on my performance, be it good or bad. As is also true with any career, position, or title we find ourselves in. Without understanding our identity in Christ and the image of God we were created in, we have only to gauge our worth from how well we live out those callings.
An athlete may win a medal, and in the moment it is the most exhilarating feeling you could ever feel. But what happens two weeks after the games, when the world goes back to its routine and the medal is put on a trophy shelf? The feeling is guaranteed to fade, people whose lives weren’t wrapped up in training move on, and you are left deciding what’s next. As an athlete I know this feeling all too well. God created us to live in relationship with Him through His son Jesus Christ. It is in Him that we find our true identity. You may be gifted in athletics, or in finance, or in medicine… maybe you identify yourself as a mom, or a business owner, or a server at a restaurant. But we must realize our first and true identity is a child of God. I am a follower of Christ who happens to be good at athletics, and I choose to use that gifting to serve Him with all that I am. Our fulfillment will never be in our talents; our talents are only a facility to share His kingdom with those around us. So with two of the lessons I have been learning here in the UK, I challenge you with back in the central valley: First, Where do you find your true value? Secondly, How can you use your gifting, ability, and position in life to better serve His kingdom?
Looking forward to coming home and sharing stories with you all very soon! Cheerio!
Mallory