Super combined downhill, giant slalom, moguls, slope style, aerials, half pipe ski cross, and Super G. These are just a few of the ski events of the Olympics that start at the top – of a mountain or hill or ski jump – and it is once a person sets out through the gate at the beginning of the race – it’s all downhill from there! We know that accomplishing a near perfect performance takes years of practice learning the mechanics, maneuvers, skills, timing, and techniques of the sport to become a champion!!
Each competitor desires to be a champion, and oftentimes, past or present sports stars are the ones they emulate! But according to the analysts – you need to begin at a young age to develop your potential with passion so as to reach for your purpose and goal. It is in striving for that special moment in which they become aware that they have “crossed over” onto their path of “inner knowing” of who they are - that their motivation, courage, and drive emanates and urges them on.
In our Scriptures during Lent, we have the writings of Matthew, Mark, and John presenting Jesus’ unfolding story leading up to the events in Jerusalem. His purpose as Beloved is very clear! It is in the hearing and pondering of these writings, that we are invited to become clearer in our search for purpose, and to renew our commitment to the call of what it means to be disciple
(learner) . . . going the extra mile, being light and salt, forgiving, and living as a person of peace. This, like the Olympic athletes, takes skill, training, practice, and coaching.
A good objective mentor, a spiritual guide, or a loving friend can be a great coach as we discern our purpose and passion, and as we strive to live out the call of the Be-attitudes. Paraphrasing author Dawna Markova, there comes a time in which we no longer need to search for purpose; we discover that we become it. This truly can be a spiritual “Olympic feat”!
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