The Witness of Champions

Growing Daily

The Witness of Champions

What would it be like to be a first-time Olympic hopeful, catching glimpses of Olympic legends around the venues?

Amid the jitters and last-minute training, you see Italian skier Alberto Tomba, long finished with competition, lighting the Olympic cauldron.  You listen, spellbound, as American snowboarder Shaun White recalls his own Olympic triumphs and failures.

The mix of emotions must be overwhelming as a young athlete spots someone who once stood on this very stage, battled the same obstacles, endured the same pressures, and persevered triumphantly. There’s a surge of encouragement, knowing someone understands the struggle and sacrifice. But alongside inspiration comes a sense of weight—a reminder of the high standard they are now called to uphold and the seriousness of the stakes in the days ahead.

That moment—competing in the presence of those who have finished their race—is mirrored in Hebrews 12:1: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a huge crowd of witnesses to the life of faith, let us strip off every weight that slows us down, especially the sin that so easily trips us up. And let us run with endurance the race God has set before us." 

Like the Olympic athlete, we are surrounded by faithful witnesses who have persevered and finished well. Their example encourages us. It calls us to run our own spiritual race with perseverance and integrity, reminding us that we are not alone.


- Catherine Reid