Penalty or No, Athletes Talk Faith

The opening ceremonies of the Olympics are grand displays of national pride and global unity. However, during the Games themselves, another common theme emerges: athletes talking about God.

At last month’s Olympic trials, athletes frequently credited God for their success, often in explicitly Christian terms. It was almost a competition to see who could offer the most praise heavenward.

US track star Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone stood out. After breaking the world record for the women’s 400-meter hurdles, she told a reporter, “Honestly—praise God. I was not expecting that, but He can do anything. Anything is possible in Christ. I’m just amazed, baffled, and in shock.” The reporter nervously moved to the next question.

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Athletes thanking God for their success is nothing new, but why does this remain common? Unlike the Oscars or other secular gatherings, sporting events still serve as a stage for public displays of faith.

Athletes, unlike other public figures, rarely face backlash for their religiosity. Reporters may find it quirky, but athletes generally aren’t punished for their public expressions of faith. This begs the question: Why do athletes openly share their faith when belief is often kept private in other spheres?

The Nature of Sports

The nature of sports might hold the answer. Athletic discipline is controlled, but once the competition begins, it’s chaos and chance. Athletes face unpredictable elements like weather and injuries. They treat their bodies almost like separate entities, nurturing and trusting them, yet blaming them for failures.

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For example, in the 2014 NBA Finals, LeBron James left Game 1 due to cramps caused by the stadium’s warmer temperature. Such uncontrollable factors lead athletes to turn to God, acknowledging that only He is sovereign over these variables.

Athletes, like fans, can be superstitious, engaging in rituals for good luck. Even skeptics like Michael Jordan participated in Zen meditation, believing it would help them win. For athletes, God governs not just the moment but history itself, reinforcing their belief in divine providence.

Glory and Gratitude

Athletic contests are about glory. Victorious athletes often express gratitude, recognizing their achievements as both their own and as gifts from God. This is why athletes thank their teammates, families, and especially God, echoing James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above.”

Sports, like art, can be channels of transcendence, offering moments of self-forgetfulness and beauty. Fans participate in this experience through their cheers and support, creating a unique relationship with athletes.

The Media’s Role

However, there’s a more cynical view. Some journalists tolerate athletes’ faith as part of covering sports, feigning interest in their religious expressions before moving on to questions about the game. This dynamic can be complex, especially in leagues where the religious athletes often come from different backgrounds than the secular media covering them.

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Criticism from journalists can sometimes border on contempt, highlighting the gap between secular perspectives and the athletes’ faith. Despite this, athletes remain unapologetic about their beliefs, serving as models for other believers to be boldly Christian in public.

Conclusion

While public displays of faith may be rare in many areas of modern culture, athletes continue to express their beliefs openly. Their unapologetic faith amidst secular scrutiny offers inspiration for others to share their beliefs with confidence. Whether viewed as genuine or performative, these expressions of faith in sports highlight the enduring intersection of spirituality and competition.

News Source:- christianitytoday.com