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Photo: Getty Images for IAAF

"God made me for a purpose, but he also made me fast and when I run, I feel his pleasure."

Eric Liddell in Chariots of Fire

Rejoice

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Philippians 4:4

The secret of rejoicing always is to keep everything in perspective. We rejoice because we know God. We rejoice because nothing can separate us from God’s love. We rejoice because nothing we do can make God love us less. It isn’t easy, but knowing God’s love can help us to rejoice despite injury, disappointment or failure. Jesus stressed the importance of rejoicing for the right reason. When the disciples were excited by their ministry successes, he replied: “do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven. Luke 10:20

Do we fall into the same temptation? Of course we rejoice when Christian ministry we are involved in flourishes. We are thrilled to see God’s kingdom grow. As sportspeople we rejoice when all our hard work in training is rewarded with a success in the big competition.

Every day, we should be thankful for all that Jesus has done for us – loved us, redeemed us, protects us. Nothing can separate us from his love. And – in case you have forgotten – your name is written down in heaven! See you there.

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