King David, writing in Psalm 19, after speaking of the benefits of the law/testimony/precepts/commandment/fear/rules of the Lord, says, "More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold." (Psalm 19.10a) This helps me keep perspective as we watch the wonderfully talented athletes who are competing in the winter olympics. Everyone is "going for the gold," as well they should being competitive athletes. Yet some get the silver or bronze medal rather than the gold, and most get no awards at all. For all the olympic athletes, as for you and me, the Word of God is far better than receiving riches or being on top of the awards podium at the olympic games. "A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, and favor is better than silver or gold." (Proverbs 22.1) Something for you and me to ponder. But as we ponder, remember this also: There is only one truly good name that has ever been known - Jesus, the Jesus of Nazareth, Jesus Christ the Lord!
Pray for those olympic athletes, coaches, and their family members who may be our brothers and sisters in Christ. Pray for them to honor the Lord Jesus in all of their actions, both on and off the competitive stage at the olympics. And win or lose, pray that the Lord reminds them of these things in Psalm 19 and Proverbs 22.