I am not much of a sports-fan. My friends tease me that I often don't even know who is playing each year in the World Series. However, the Olympics changes all that, for every two years (including summer and winter Olympics) I watch as much coverage as I possibly can.

Sure there is plenty to criticize in these events: the political posturing; the not-so-well disguised commercialism now that "amateur status" is a thing of the past; the nationalism of our television coverage which focuses almost exclusively on those events that Americans do well in.

Still, when all is said and done, there are two reasons for paying attention to the Olympics (even if you don't really like sports): The first is the yearning, however vague, for world peace and understanding. International cooperation runs like background music through all the events from the lavish choreography and parade of nations of the opening ceremonies; the trading of lapel pins by the tourists and athletes, to the release of doves that is often part of the closing ceremonies.

Then there is the sheer indomitable spirit of young men and women from around the world, who overcome seemingly impossible obstacles to do things that it seems no human body was created to do, such as SWIM much faster than we can WALK, strike a point in fencing faster than the eye can see, or defy gravity high up on the gymnastic rings.

It's no wonder that St. Paul uses the imagery of athletic competition to describe the Christian life -

Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. Well, I do not run aimlessly, I do not box as one beating the air; but I pommel my body and subdue it, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. (I Cor. 9. 24-27)

There is no doubt that for him, living a faithful life is to do "our utmost for the Highest."

Wouldn't it be a real spectacle if we threw ourselves into Christian life and service with the same spirit that athletes train for the Olympic Games? Our lives would have that same intense focus we see in the faces of these world-class Olympian athletes, and certainly quitting would never cross our minds. Maybe we would not end up with a gold medal, but we are promised an "imperishable crown."

+Kirk

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A Final Thought

Just so you don't think that my optimistic view of the Lambeth Conference reflected any wishful thinking on my part, I share with you some comments made by an outsider. Brian D. Mclaren is a notable author (his Generous Orthodoxy is one of my favorite books) from the evangelical tradition, and an expert on the emergent church movement. He was invited to speak to the Conference and a day later posted his reactions on his blogsite (www.brianmclaren.net/archives/blog/joyful-time-at-lambeth.html):

"I know that most people think the "news story" here is about divisive controversies over sexuality, but my sense is that the real news story is very different. There is a humble spirit here, a loving atmosphere, a deep spirituality centered in Bible study, worship, and prayer, and a strong desire to move beyond internal-institutional matters to substantive mission in our needy world.

"In every conversation and gathering I've participated in, the spirit has been kind and holy and positive. That sort of good news doesn't attract the media the way a salacious or pugilistic story does ... It will be interesting to see whether the press reports what is actually happening here, or if they need to rewrite the narrative to fit the shape of war-tales they are more accustomed to telling. My sense is that the quiet, prayerful, and humble patience of Archbishop Rowan Williams is leading the way to better days for the Anglican Communion. It feels like the bishops gathered here are turning a corner together. I feel that I'm witnessing the emergence of something good, beautiful, true, and blessed ... Hearts here are sincerely open to the Spirit of God."