I love the Olympics. As a runner, I can appreciate the training, and discipline, that it takes for the spirit of competition. (On a much smaller scale of course) So when I hear of a heartbreaking story, like the Netherlands Womens Cycling Team, it breaks my heart.
Annemiek van Vleuten crossed the finish line with her arms in the air. You could see the joy on her face. Gold was hers. Or, so she thought. You see, it was actually Anna Kiesenhofer, from Austria, who won Gold as she pulled away from the field. Annemiek ended up with Silver.
How could this happen? Well, the Silver Medal winner, Annamiek, never saw Anna pull away from the field. Basically, because Annamiek thought she was in 1st place, she never felt a need to put the pressure on thr cyclist in 1st place. That’s because she thought she was in first place. How heartbreaking!
After the race, the NBC commentator told the rest of the story. In a normal cycling race, the cyclist is in constant communication with their crew/team. They radio each other and know how far in front, or behind, they are from the other cyclists. But, at the Olympics, communication is not allowed. You are on your own. Nobody was able to tell Annamiek she was actually in second place. (Told you it was a heartbreaking story). She thought she had the Gold in the bag.
Aren’t you glad your ability to communicate with God is ALWAYS there? You are never alone. During the biggest battle of your life, you have a crew/team who says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. ” Deuteronomy 31:6 –
Today, if you are facing a challenge, do not try and do it on your own. I encourage you to dig deep, and know that God is with you in the training, and in the battle. “Never will I leave you, or forsake you.” (Hebrews 13:5) Are you willing to stay in communication?
Communicate with God. Go make a difference. Always Run, or Cycle, By Faith.
TommyRunByFaith 