How the Olympics Reflect a Greater Unity and Divine Purpose
As the Olympic flame was extinguished, the world paused to celebrate not just the end of the Paris Games but the continuing hope and unity that brought the world together for this amazing global celebration.
Though the Olympics have come to a close, they have left a lasting impact on both the competitors and the spectators. More than just a global competition, these Olympic games were an incredible display of human potential and perseverance that surpassed the physical. Beyond the heartwarming stories and inspiring performances, there was something spiritual in people all around the world gathering to compete and celebrate.
For the first time in history, the opening ceremonies didn’t take place in a stadium but instead on the Sceine River in Paris. (Olympics.com)
Unity Through Triumph
This act of all nations gathered together transcended culture, language, religion, and political preference—those things which often keep cultures and countries separate and fractured—and brought unity and hope to a world that desperately needs it.
“After these things I looked, and behold, a great multitude which no one could count, from every nation and all tribes and peoples and tongues, standing before the throne and before the Lamb…” —Revelation 7:9
As the world gathered, unified, to witness these incredible athletes striving for gold, we were reminded that there is a greater glory beyond the athletic victories —one that belongs to God.
Athletes like Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (Track & Field, USA), Rayassa Leal (Skateboarding, Brazil), Andrea Spendolini-Sirieix (Diving, Team GB), Nicola Olyslagers (High jump, Australia), Adam Peaty (Swimming, Team GB), Gabriel Medina (Surfing, Brazil) give all glory to God.
After gaining victory and breaking records, they showcased that success is not merely about human effort. Instead, it is about recognizing that every victory is a gift from the Creator. These athletes became witnesses of their faith, sharing God’s hope on a world stage.
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone representing the USA in Track and Field at the Olympic games. (Photo Cred: Steph Chambers, Getty Images)
South Sudan’s Triumph
This sense of divine purpose is also echoed in the story of the South Sudanese basketball team—an area of the world where Petros Network works to end spiritual and physical poverty. Despite their war-torn homeland and lack of proper facilities, this team made history. Their journey to the Olympics, marked by sacrifice and determination, mirrors the spiritual journey that many of us undertake.
From Olympic Unity to Eternal Purpose
At Petros Network, we are inspired by the global unity the Olympics represent. Just as athletes give their best on the world stage, we strive to bring hope and healing to nations. Our work in the countries we serve is part of a larger mission to ensure that the message of Jesus reaches every corner of the earth. As C.S. Lewis aptly put it,
“There is no neutral ground in the universe. Every square inch, every split second, is claimed by God and counterclaimed by Satan.” —C.S. Lewis
As we move on from these Olympic games, we need to remember to see beyond the medals, the victories, and the athletic prowess of these athletes. Instead, we need to see the faces of the athletes (and ourselves) as individuals running an eternal race where the ultimate victory is not a gold medal but a crown of life. In this race, we are all participants, and the finish line is standing before the throne of God, where we will lay down our crowns, medals, and earthly treasures.
As we engage in our mission to take Jesus to the ends of the earth and see ALL redeemed and God’s glory restored, we are encouraged to be part of a movement where Jesus— the Hope of Nations—is redeeming and restoring lives. The Olympics, with its gathering of 206 nations, is a microcosm of this divine mission.
“The mere sound of his name will signal hope, even among far-off unbelievers.” —Matthew 12:21
Two French athletes lighting the Olympic Cauldron at the 2024 Paris Olympics (Olympics.com)
Running the Race with Faith
So, though the flame is extinguished for now, pray for continued unity and hope around the world. May we all follow the lead of the Christian athletes who gave all the glory back to God when they won the victory for their country.
In the spirit of the Olympic Games:
“Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”
—Hebrews 12:1-2
In closing, may we be inspired to further the mission God has entrusted to every believer— bringing the hope of Jesus to every corner of the earth and reflecting God’s glory in all we do. As we move forward, let us pray for enduring unity and hope, striving together to fulfill our divine calling and make a lasting impact on the world. Consider making a gift today and help end spiritual and physical poverty among the unreached and underserved.
