Running the race of your life

100 years ago on 11th July 1924, Eric Liddell, surprised the world and made history by winning gold in the 400m race at the Paris Olympics, breaking the World Record in the process.

The 2024 Paris Olympics are coming up soon, where we can learn about amazing stories of Olympians, like Eric Liddell. Liddell, born in China in 1902 to Scottish missionaries, was a talented athlete and a devoted follower of Jesus Christ.

He made a tough decision during the 1924 Paris Olympics. Even though he was expected to compete in the 100m race, he chose not to run on a Sunday due to his religious beliefs. Instead, he trained for the 200m and 400m races. Surprisingly, he won the 400m race and set a new world record.

What tough decision have you had to make? Discuss with the person next to you and share your ideas as a tutor group.

• Deciding whether to stand up to bullying when you might be called a snitch.
• Choosing to go and speak to that student alone instead of spending break time with your usual friends.
• Choosing to help your mum with housework instead of going to the park to see friends.
• Not playing football for a sports team on Sunday morning because you go to church with your family.

After the Olympics, Liddell went back to China to teach, while his family moved to a safer place during the war. Unfortunately, he was captured and put in a prison camp. There, he inspired others by teaching Bible classes and helping everyone, despite his poor health. Sadly, he passed away in 1945 at the age of 43.

Eric Liddell's life was all about his faith in God and serving others, whether on the track or in difficult times. He believed in following Jesus no matter the cost. Let's remember his inspiring story and try to follow his example in whatever we do.

1 Corinthians 10:31 says:

'So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.’

Watch some actual footage of Eric Liddell racing: Click below to watch on Youtube:

Prayer

Lord, thank you for Eric Liddlell’s commitment to serving God and serving others. Help give us the wisdom and confidence to make tough decisions so we can be better at serving you and others in need. Amen.