(this post was originally from 8-6-2012. But I thought it fit in nicely with my “small changes” challenge this month. The challenge? Consider where you’re putting your time! Those seconds turn into hours into days into years!)
I have been 100% committed (addicted??) to watching the Olympics this year- partly because I’m loving it so much and partly because I have been told to rest my sprained ankle. The gymnastics are hands-down my favorite. In fact, as I was typing this last Wednesday night, I have one eye on the TV, not wanting to miss a minute of this once-every-four-year event. I missed last Sunday night’s performance by the USA women’s team, so on Monday I was doing some YouTubing. I ran across Gabby Douglas’s Olympic Trial video, and of course I had to watch it.
As I sat there with my daughter, in awe of such strength and discipline of the human body, I glanced at the total time of the video: 5 minutes, 11 seconds. Hours upon hours turns into years upon years of practice. Gallons of sweat, missed opportunities of a “normal” childhood and adolescence, infinite criticism from coaches. (and ironically, people watching the Olympics who can’t even do a cartwheel!) And it all boils down to a handful of minutes.
This made me think really hard about what we pursue as humans- we train, we practice, we worry about, we spend money on, think about things that simply fly away in the blinking of an eye. Yes, the 2012 US Olympic Team will be remembered for a while- for many years, even. But in the grand scheme of things, only what we do for Christ will last eternally. (It’s in the Bible! Matthew 6:19-21).
Of course, we all have responsibilities that just are part of life- (diaper changing and dishes, anyone?) and becoming an incredibly good gymnast just happens to be Gabby Douglas’s job right now.
I want to spend my time, energy, focus, and talents on things that last. For this season, for me, that is raising children to love and obey God. It is so very easy to lose focus on what my main task in life is, but I am praying for that to change. (Right after the Olympics are over, right? 😉 )
Oh-and did you see Gabby Thomas’s tweet after also winning the best all around gymnast?
About Kelli Hays
Great post, Kelli! I used to have “only what we do for Christ will last” as my signature on all my emails. It’s a great thing to keep in the forefront of your mind when we are going about our daily lives and having to make decisions.
I too am VERY impressed with Gabby & love the honor and glory she is giving to GOD!
Thank you Chrystal! By the way, LOVE your new blog! You have certainly prepared well for marriage and God will bless you for it!
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thanks so much Kelli! I waited patiently and God answered exceedingly and abundantly! You know a little bit about my story. So, glad I waited on HIS best!
Love this and love how inspiring the Olympics are! So many good stories of triumph! Thanks for stopping by my blog! Now following back!
Ashley:)