Unfortunately Christians did no favours to our reputation by using the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics as a platform to voice disdain and judgement. A photo of a gymnast with arms outstretched in his rings routine captioned “stop mocking our sacred symbols” served as a satirical clapback. Had these words of scripture been written on their hearts maybe more would have refrained from amplifying a misguided offense: “Those who consider themselves religious and do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves and their religion is worthless” (James 1:19). We should save our breath for greater injustices against our vulnerable neighbours.
In other New Testament counsel we are told “whatever is true, honorable, right, pure, whatever is lovely and of good repute and if anything is worthy of praise, dwell on these things” (Philippians 4:8-9). So here are some inspiring share-worthy moments from the Summer Games I would love to see reposted more than critical opinions. Aside from viral clips of athletes raising their voices to praise God in morning worship (I hope the Fijian team records an album!), a few interviews also evoked musical responses.
Yemisi Ogunleye of Germany slipped and fell during her first shot put throw. As she went back to her seat she was spotted singing to encourage herself. Her final throw was a personal best that brought her to her knees in a prayer of gratitude. When asked what song seemed to turn things around she shared the full gospel tune “I almost let go” with her captivated audience.
Rebeca Andrade from Brazil beat Simone Biles for gold in the floor exercise competition, is a comeback story whose multiple ACL injuries required reconstructive surgeries. She broke into song during an interview after winning silver in the vault competition and spoke of how God hugged her through a friend’s arms when she felt unsure of her future.
Australian Nicola Olyslagers was all smiles before she jumped 2.00 meters to win a silver medal. She explained on her website, “The satisfaction that I jump and live by was once performance-driven, to bring meaning to life. Yet that all changed when I was introduced to Jesus.”
American hurdler Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone broke the world record in women’s 400m. At the press conference an NPR reporter asked her about her faith. Her response about her opportunity to represent Jesus in her conduct regardless if she wins or not was a beautiful model for every believer.
Adam Peaty, world record holder in the 100-meter breaststroke recently became a Christian recently after struggling with alcoholism and depression. Peaty said that when he first visited the church he now attends, the sermon referred to the Olympics. “No one knew I was coming,” he recalled. “I was just at the back and I was like, ‘If this isn’t meant for me, then what is?’” He was shy of winning gold in Paris by a split second. “These are happy tears,” he explained as he took silver. “I’m crying because it took so much to get here. I’m a very religious man, and I asked God to show my heart, and this is my heart. I couldn’t have done more.”