Firstly, the Olympic stage is the toughest in the world. Victory at the Olympics means beating the fittest athletes in the world.
Secondly, when an Aussie athlete wins, we share in this victory because that athlete represents us.
As you saw the great victories at London 2012, consider the greatest victory EVER: Jesus' victory over sin and death. The apostle Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 15 about this victory.
He starts by outlining what this victory is. It is about Jesus who died for our sins, was buried and rose victorious (v3-5). And this victory means everything is under His feet.
This means nations might rise up against Him, or you might be burdened by guilt or sin, or you might see injustice in the world, but Jesus' victory is over all these things (v27). The result is we can stand firm (v30) in Jesus' shadow.
And this victory is not something that has just appeared from nowhere. Paul explains it is something that God has been working towards since the dawn of time. Genesis 3 verse 15 explains Satan's work and sin is defeated - "he will crush your head, and you will strike his heel."
The "he" is Jesus! In 1 Corinthians 15 verse 54 he quotes an old prophet, Isaiah, who explains that Jesus swallows up sin and death in victory.
The language here is rich in meaning and points back to the Greek god of victory "Nike" who would fly in to give victory to an athlete or army. If you look at the gold medals in London you will notice Nike printed on them.
This reminds the athlete they are victorious. Paul reminds us that Jesus' victory is over everything. He has swallowed up sin and death. An example: have you ever seen a breakaway in cycling? A few riders get away only to be swallowed up by the main pack as the race comes to the end.
The same picture is here: sin and death take an early lead in the race and they are looking strong. But the race is never in doubt. Jesus has come through to take the lead in His perfect timing. He races through to swallow up sin (Gen 3 verse 15) and defeat death.
But it gets even better. The victory is not only His, but also belongs to anyone who calls Jesus the captain of their team. If He represents you, then you share in His victory. Jesus gives us this victory. What an amazing concept!
When you recall watching the gold being won in London, reflect now on a victory that goes beyond anything ever known. And it can be yours as a free and gracious gift.
Jeremy is a former sports scientist, now pastor and sports chaplain.
Jeremy Dover's previous articles may be viewed at www.pressserviceinternational.org/jeremy-dover.html
