This is Rio. This is the Summer Olympics 2016. This is the time for the world to come together and compete in a multitude of different sports. This is the moment for all of these athletes to shine. They may already be a big deal in their respected fields, but now the whole world knows their names.
They don’t need to hear me congratulate them for their stellar performances. It’s completely obvious from the shiny new medals hanging around their necks. Of course, I am still going to voice my admiration for their superior skill.
However, over the past week three names have come to my attention for one special reason: Michael Phelps, Simone Biles, and Katie Ledecky. First they were in the news because they won gold (can we comment on how much of a beast Phelps is in the water? Seriously, who does that?). Then I see them in the news for professing their faith.
After London 2012, Phelps went into a dark hole. He made some bad choices, and he admits that he contemplated taking his own life. How is that even possible? He is amazing! He has so much to live for! But fame isn’t everything. He continued with these thoughts until a friend introduced him to God. Phelps says that He saved his life. Thank you, Michael Phelps, for being open about your faith, and for the evangelization you offered through this testimony.
Simone Biles. We’ve all watched this sassy young woman complete dominate in the gymnasium. She absolutely kills all of her routines, and she does it with a bright smile on her face. The best weapon that she has? It’s not presented on the balance beam or the vault. Rather, this weapon is tucked away in her gym bag. In an interview, Biles reveals that she carries around a rosary from her mother and offers up prayers from the heart. In addition, she’ll attend Sunday Mass with her family. Thank you, Simone Biles, for acknowledging where your talent comes from, and being thankful for your gifts.
Katie Ledecky glides through the water in the pools like it’s second nature. She has won gold, and this Olympics is far from the end of her carrier. Before each of her competitions, Ledecky will pray a Hail Mary and that is a beautiful thing. This successful young woman takes the moments before entering the water to honor Our Lady in Heaven. Thank you, Katie Ledecky, for recognizing the woman who is a model for us all.
The Olympics are a time of year when the faces of athletes cover the front page and fill the newsreels. It is a refreshing feeling to see these, and many others currently competing, stand behind Him who gave them the ability to perform as they do. It is refreshing to see athletes take to heart John 19:11, “You would have no power over me if it had not been given to you from above.” While Jesus referred to Pontius Pilate’s power to condemn Him to death, the later half rings true. None of these athletes would have the skill that they did unless God had given it to them.
Thank you, 2016 Olympians, for taking your moment in the spotlight to stand as witnesses to your faith.
