And so, I begin with a confession … Here it is – I am going through 2021 Olympics Withdrawals!!! During this week, following the historic 2020 Olympic Games, as hosted by Tokyo and as rescheduled this summer, due to the global assault of the COVID-19 virus – collectively, as global citizens we cherished the gift of technology and with heightened emotions focused our minds and realigned our schedules to witness this long-anticipated event. Which is why, even as the 2021 Summer Olympics are being recorded in the pages of history, I find myself diligently, yet persistently even passionately searching YouTube for highlights from each of the Olympic days and yes – even the pre-Olympic trials. It seems I never tire of being intrigued by the life stories, awesome discipline and tenacious commitment of these young athletes through which they courageously push themselves to heights of personal and team performance – which not only inspires their hearts but the hearts of those in the audience.
But wait, did I just say audience? Upon continued reflection, with you – I am mindful that though the intent had been to have 10,000 fans in the stands – due to the ravages of the COVID-19 virus, just prior to the start of this much anticipated event – fans were now told that they could not be in attendance. While this decision necessary – it was nevertheless extremely disappointing to those who had anticipated being members of the audience. It was also exceedingly disappointing to the athletes who, while still committed to distinctive performance excellence – were also lamenting the special delight and energy which emerges from the cheers of the crowd.
Though not Olympians, Paul reminds us that we live our lives energized by a great crowd of witnesses whose legacy faith and intimacy with Christ – even now enrich our lives and enlarge our destinies. Boldly he reminds us of Noah, Enoch, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, Gideon, Barak, Samson, David, Samuel, Rahab and those named and unnamed courageous witnesses who though stoned, sawed in two, pierced by the sword and the evils of mistreatment – gained strength in weakness. These champions of the “crowd of faith” for whom the world is not worthy – hid in caves and holes in the ground and yet resolutely determined to increasingly “joy in their faith” and to rejoice in their union with Christ – “no turning back” (Hebrews 10 & 11).
Paul continues to declare that each one of us is called to be also be a member of this great crowd of witnesses – these cheerleaders of the faith, that we call “community”. As a result, we individually and collectively experience the joy of encouraging one another and building each other up (1st Thessalonians 5:11). Where in our daily interactions, rather than despair – we promote love and good works (Hebrews 10:24). Where, with ever increasing intentionality, we commit to “making ourselves an example” for others – as did the Olympians, of what it means to live with great intentionality and in our cases, with great love. Understanding as did wise King Solomon of old, that as we refresh other we are ourselves refreshed (Proverbs 11:25).
This is why, when on August 30, 2021 – with rich anticipation, we welcome students back to our Washington Adventist University Campus we commit to actively being cheerleaders for each of them and thus invite you to join us in renewed commitment to promoting interactions which are esteeming and empowering – together, in these desperate times – bringing Joy to our world, peace on earth, good will toward men in new and awesome ways – Let’s Enjoy!