Dr. Allison Seed's Message
| Trinity Presbyterian Church 1400 Sheley Road Independence, MO 64052 |
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Friends in Christ,
Watching the Olympics these past two weeks has been an enthralling
experience. The sheer speed of the races and pursuits, the daredevil risks
taken by the snow boarders and ski jumpers, the beauty and poetry of the
skaters, the concentration and incomprehensibility of the curlers–all I can say
is wow!
But what impresses me the most is the degree of discipline and training taken
by all the athletes, no matter the sport, in pursuit of their dream. The time
they dedicate to perfecting their sport, the letting go of so many normal teen
and adult pursuits, the cross-training in other sports to build strength is mind-
boggling. And for me, as a Christian in the season of Lenten discipline, it is
also humbling and challenging.
You see, I find myself asking about my own dedication to living in the already,
but not yet kingdom of God. How much am I willing to give of my time, my
heart, my soul, my physical being? Am I willing to follow the directions and
teachings of Jesus as my coach? What am I willing to give up? Snack foods
laid alongside the commitment of the Olympic athlete are paltry sacrifices
indeed.
As you and I follow Christ this season to the cross, may our rededication be
more encompassing than ever before. We may not be developing skills in bob-
sledding, but what about a subtle change in our attitudes to other people and
perspectives on the world? We may not be jumping over moguls, but we can
keep our hearts from an arthritic self-focus. We may not be performing triple
toe loops, but we can be more faithful in daily sacrifice and service.
The passion at these Games in Vancouver has been inspirational. May we,
too, with “glowing hearts,” as the motto from “O, Canada” proclaims, give
our best for our community, our faith, and our Lord.
In Christ.
Allison K. Seed
There is not one blade of grass, there is no color in this world that is not intended to make us rejoice.
John Calvin