Whenever the Olympics come around, inspiring stories always surface causing us to cheer, applaud, and maybe shed a few tears. We do not soon forget the story of Derek Redmond, even though he finished dead last at the finals of the 400 meter sprint at the 1992 summer Olympics in Barcelona.
Do you remember who finished first place in that race? More people remember Derek Redmond's last place finish than the actual winner of the race who was Quincy Watts from the USA, in 43.5 seconds. I doubt you readily remember any of the other medalists from Barcelona either. We remember Derek because he did not get to the finish line by himself. He pulled a hamstring while running but he did not want to quit the race. His father jumped out of the crowd and helped his son cross the finish line even though in last place.
We are soon to experience the Olympics in Vancouver so many years away from the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. But we still applaud and cheer and cry when we think of the story of Derek and his father crossing the finish line. Derek finished in last place but we remember him first.
For Derek and all Christians, it is not a bad place to be in if you are last. Lots of followers of Jesus Christ can not get beyond last place. They always seem to be bringing up the rear while on earth. But they will be first when they reach Heaven. While in last place, we pray: Jesus, I have left all my worldly possessions to follow You; thank you for the promise that my sacrifices will result in Your blessings.
No comments:
Post a Comment