God's Coaching #25

God's Coaching #25

The first Winter Olympics looked a lot different from the Games today. There were no TV cameras. No elaborate productions. On this day in 1924, nearly 260 athletes from 16 nations took part in the opening ceremonies in Chamonix, France, for the first Winter Olympics. Those athletes (247 men and 11 women) competed in 18 different events. Finland and Norway dominated the first Winter Olympics by claiming 28 of the 43 medals awarded.

Compare those numbers to the 2010 Winter Games in Vancouver, British Columbia, where more than 5,500 athletes and officials represented 80 countries. While the numbers have gotten bigger, some things haven’t changed. For example, the United States has always been good in speed skating. In the 1924 Games, American Charlie Jewtraw won the first event by earning top honors in 500-meter speed skating. His gold medal can now be found at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC.

What’s the Score?

Some sporting events just seem to get bigger and bigger. The Winter Olympics had a very humble beginning. In fact, it wasn’t even originally called the “Olympics.” Instead, this event was referred to as “International Winter Sports Week.” Not many people even knew about the competition. Today, millions of people around the world watch the Winter Games.

Jesus Christ had a humble beginning. He was born in a manger and welcomed to the world by shepherds. But the Bible says, “Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people” (Luke 2:52). God’s Son grew bigger and smarter, and his actions pleased God and the people around him.

You may know what it’s like to have a humble beginning. But don’t think for an instant that you can’t grow into something (or somebody) who will be recognized around the world. Follow Jesus’ example by working to improve your mind and body. When you concentrate on the things that are important to God, people will notice.

On the Ball

God often grows something small into something amazing. When you stay humble and follow God, you’ll blossom into something big—for his glory and in his timing.

Coach’s Comment

Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people. Luke 2:52