This weekend the Beijing
Olympics reach the half-way mark. I continue to be amazed at the skill,
determination and stamina of those winning Gold. Whether the sport is Fencing, Swimming,
Gymnastics or one of the many others, the Olympic champions are just that – Olympic in stature. As we admire these superb athletes there is even
the place for the accurate use of an over-used word – unique. There is only one
Michael Phelps. Have we found the modern definition of greatness in this young
man? Perhaps, from the perspective of swimming. But the things that make
Michael Phelps special are things that the rest of us can only admire from a
distance.
Here is another name for your consideration – Nick Challies.
This is a young man who, according to his dad, struggled somewhat this year on
the athletic field. Yet Nick excelled on this same field by being an example of
sportsmanship. Sportsmanship, from a biblical perspective, is putting others
before yourself. By practicing sportsmanship with excellence, Nick gathered the appreciation of others. And unlike Michael, Nick’s performance
does not have to be unique. All Christians should embrace the goal of placing others
first. You can read about Nick’s award winning season here. Thanks, Nick, for
providing a biblical balance to the Gold Medal chase!