There are moments when the training is done, and the event is here. We run the race life has set before us, and it either lands us on the winner's podium, or in the stands clapping for the winners. How can we approach life in such a way that whether we get a gold medal or a participation trophy, we give God thanks through it all?

There are moments when the training is done, and the event is here. We run the race life has set before us, and it either lands us on the winner's podium, or in the stands clapping for the winners. How can we approach life in such a way that whether we get a gold medal or a participation trophy, we give God thanks through it all?

It is a lifetime honor to be able to represent your country in the Olympics. To represent them well is to exhibit good sportsmanship in competition, since the behavior of the athlete reflects on the country. It is the same way with the fans. We are given a lifetime honor too, to be ambassadors for Christ - as we give up boasting in exchange for encouraging others to play for God's team.

It is a lifetime honor to be able to represent your country in the Olympics. To represent them well is to exhibit good sportsmanship in competition, since the behavior of the athlete reflects on the country. It is the same way with the fans. We are given a lifetime honor too, to be ambassadors for Christ - as we give up boasting in exchange for encouraging others to play for God's team.

An article in Forbes states that the average Olympic athlete trains 4-8 years in advance of the Olympics. Years of goal setting, discipline, and repetition to give them the opportunity to try out to represent their country. Whether or not they ever make the team, the results of their hard work is obvious. How would our faith life change if we began to train like it was the most important thing in our life?

An article in Forbes states that the average Olympic athlete trains 4-8 years in advance of the Olympics. Years of goal setting, discipline, and repetition to give them the opportunity to try out to represent their country. Whether or not they ever make the team, the results of their hard work is obvious. How would our faith life change if we began to train like it was the most important thing in our life?

Sometimes, we feel as though we are just another face in the crowd. It is easy to feel like it wouldn't make a difference if you showed up or if you didn't. But, there is power in a name. Zacchaeus was a face in a crowd of people straining to see Jesus. But, when Jesus called him by name, he became more than a face. He became worthy.

Shame of our past frequently prevents us from getting to know other people and getting to know God. Jesus knew Zacchaeus had been a tax collector and was distrusted by the community for the things he had done. But he also knew that Zacchaeus could make an impact on the world. We as the church can be a safe place where baggage does not have to be left at the door. We can bring it in, go through it and let someone leave excited about their future instead of weighed down by their past.

The gospel frequently challenges systems of privilege, oppression and injustice. Such was the case in Paul's encounter with the slave girl at Philippi. She was in a situation with seemingly no options, when Paul delivered her from demonic oppression. The girl's bosses reacted to their loss and Paul paid for her liberation by going to jail. Are you willing to pay the price to bring equity or justice to others who are suffering?

Simon's request was motivated by the same illusion of power that drives so many in today's business, political, and entertainment arenas. Popular culture invests actors, sports figures and other celebrities with the appearance of unusual significance. But God's power has little or nothing to do with outward appearances or worldly acclaim. Simon adopted the world's perspective on power. How much do we allow status and position to define who we are? The first shall be last and the last shall be first