The Wired Word for 02152026 - CourtneyR.dev's 2nd Brain

The Wired Word for 02/15/2026 ![rw-book-cover](https://readwise-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/static/images/article4.6bc1851654a0.png) Dear Class Members, Since the Winter Olympics are underway, this installment of *The Wired Word* will focus on the role of religion in athletic achievement, the link between faith and fitness, and the question of what it means to glorify God. ![](https://www.thewiredword.com/_img/tww_logo_email.jpg) **Athletes Take Their Faith to the Winter Olympics** ***The Wired Word*** **for the Week of February 15, 2026** **In the News** The 2026 Winter Olympics have begun in Milan Cortina, with a wide range of events including bobsled, skeleton, biathlon, hockey, skiing, speed skating, figure skating and curling. The Olympics are a celebration of physical excellence, national pride, perseverance and determination, and many athletes rely on their faith to help them face the challenges of the events. "Religion can offer athletes a framework for resilience," notes *Religion Unplugged*, "especially in a world defined by so much pressure and scrutiny. Some Olympians have spoken openly about prayer and rituals as main sources of strength." Faith and spirituality play an important role in the manner in which they train and compete. Elana Meyers Taylor is a bobsledder representing the United States, and is also a practicing Christian. "God put me here for a specific reason, and I don't think it's just to win medals," she said. "At the end of the day, I'm in this sport to glorify God, so if that means I come in last place, or I win the gold medal, that's what I'm going to do." Taylor's partner in the two-woman bobsled is Jadin O’Brien, a three-time track and field national champion for the University of Notre Dame. According to *America,* she relied on her Catholic faith to help her through a struggle with Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections, a condition that she faced in childhood. O'Brien has said that her faith keeps her calm before and during big meets. "Athletics has helped build my faith by putting me in situations where I can put what I believe into practice." Adam "A.J." Edelman was born in the United States, but he competes for Israel in skeleton and bobsled. Edelman is the first Orthodox Jew to compete in the Winter Olympics. "I think a lot of Jews use observance as an excuse," he said. "A lot of chess tournaments are held on [the Jewish Sabbath], yet we do have quite a few chess players." For him, observance of Jewish laws and rituals does not prevent him from competing at a very high level. American Paul Schommer competes in the biathlon -- a combination of cross-country skiing and shooting. He believes that his relationship with Christ has sustained him at every level of athletic competition. "The biggest thing I've learned is just the faithfulness of God always coming through," he said. "Without feeling called and led by God, there would be a good chance I would've quit right after I first started the biathlon." Jaccob Slavin plays for the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes and is a returning member of the United States Hockey Team. He was raised in a Christian home and has talked about how his faith shapes his conduct both on and off the ice. Outside of the Olympics, he and his wife are active in Christian adoption advocacy. Speed skater Brittany Bowe of the United States has talked about her Christian beliefs in public and has credited her faith during her comeback from injury. Katie Uhlaender, a member of Team USA in skeleton, has competed in five Olympic Games. "She has spoken about her Christian beliefs in past interviews," reports *Jubileecast*, "especially in relation to recovering from injuries and coping with the loss of her father." Adherents of other religions believe that their faith is equally important. Another athlete, skier Eileen Gu, was born in the United States and now competes for China in the halfpipe, slopestyle and big air events. "I recently converted to Buddhism." she said. "I'm working on letting go of a sense of self." Alpine skier Arif Khan represents India, and is a Muslim who lives in a Hindu-majority nation. He wants to succeed so that he can have a positive impact on the young people of his home region. He said that his dream has always been to "inspire them toward their own goals." "The Olympic Games are a showcase for exceptional athletes to demonstrate how their commitment to achieving excellence through hard work and effort bears fruit in their respective sports," writes Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki, who is a hockey goalie and marathon runner. The games remind him that greatness is never achieved without sacrifice, discipline and perseverance. "When we apply the principles of sport -- faithful practice, obedience to the rules, resilience after failure, self-control, discipline and trust in a greater goal -- to our spiritual lives, then our discipleship is strengthened and our soul is made stronger and better prepared to meet God." More on this story can be found at these links: [5 Winter Olympians Who Rely on Faith in the Quest for Gold Medals.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOLfAH0t-2BLCFDkq-2BbjeFACTrsxeH2-2BKyf-2F8oEwtXpBpZo35uWtp92JjLt4dHXx-2BF65ax8ymBYqmTICerT24TUwFxbQqgeM564VroBsPstz8MQZZvenoYxC5x0VyCXRbzs5qOlyiKSwoFDro-2BrjBqX2Y-3DKLtU_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutklzR0-2FQxhUa3LFIHkNVcgjy7lVAvF-2BZenYo7D0KpaOr-2FQJQF4OFC3J9Ij9e-2FA47HLMRuT7zb1xH-2FpwgH1wnDwCjQ1-2FoUlLx7MV947zP3ijrFA7YBZ-2Fc8c9FP9MIJF5XMGhGrrPljfewVqDy-2BI37-2FNlzouAcQU2GfF1ms4rxPjShHsApdfRf9CXTmLmkqcFjTLPfluXkqur5H0qhH1nPMAO8-3D) [*Religion Unplugged*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOLfAH0t-2BLCFDkq-2BbjeFACTrsxeH2-2BKyf-2F8oEwtXpBpZo35uWtp92JjLt4dHXx-2BF65ax8ymBYqmTICerT24TUwFxbQqgeM564VroBsPstz8MQZZvenoYxC5x0VyCXRbzs5qOlyiKSwoFDro-2BrjBqX2Y-3DQXBk_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkhegBzhV-2B0TVIrR8W3OlKMzTwSx8SpmdURFp2JfjsbGL3qvF4Cp4TkTI-2BgVnHvZt8ngL3guyWklBMbz0SYywtMjZF-2FrAX3iC6u-2Bx0YZgYMpd-2BTz882bpZRCdzCkyCq7awRcigUjf6XSQMCRD3PAjvdBN4Gn-2Bb2oFlNB-2Fz9w7eF3D5pPKS-2FSQDYIJ-2BaLDZ5PuMI-2BjTMf3ZMbLrde2o-2FOtuk0-3D) [7 Christian Athletes to Watch at the 2026 Winter Olympics.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEw7ecIfuU-2FybDS0LP68xiyanZwxKI57Zb4rk81tyu8TFsSjDiNoEWai2h7dQCYPzWmqIPJxMMfzXona0lUsqc-2Fe6XxYw8eyUqpyrAV5FENU-2FAjXvBTfVHDKDBWiHkkLMA-3D-3DafUJ_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkm0fssj44rhCb08sJzy4aEdwNL7wgqGhpqWtsDCI9a6DoFOPDt7xC6DlLa2ZqJvx0PTuWsGRaxs0lFESDFreI1exq-2FrhwEIEHuM93MRtvhr0ZakGIGY0KN4IwxvgswYT81bzzMWiyfBY0I5F0I9mRCDrIurQTXxzJGZk4g4hq44AixaMQnp5xTbDvwrA8D5sym82XFv-2B7okrmM2DFot7fRc-3D) [*Jubileecast*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEw7ecIfuU-2FybDS0LP68xiyanZwxKI57Zb4rk81tyu8TFsSjDiNoEWai2h7dQCYPzWmqIPJxMMfzXona0lUsqc-2Fe6XxYw8eyUqpyrAV5FENU-2FAjXvBTfVHDKDBWiHkkLMA-3D-3DHiXz_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkp99vQMW1xZ1Vzzbfrols8UA-2FDQFWuM5y3Yx6Ivp93hglJO-2BIzPUwgoIXRBQCEgjl7QbbvVQma-2FntnN068tR5Mpjak0kHrgieMWgSo8eZsWbilBY7eXcAzfDVLHRRW8aLpkSuzmvmpH6k-2FWz5dBtP0PkrAUDn6BZ9uGzTy3UVi-2BL5uQ1B5cbf0aaawvqC13XzTaO4DW1HkaimcEPNvibVb8-3D) [These Olympic Athletes Are Leaning on Christian Faith Going Into the Winter Games.](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3DdN0l_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkhJ7n0O2TOdhq0edTQzayVtGas2NnxBXOAV-2B8ODHOU9DZC-2FhOVynoX4k7ZgIjV751EQrvvKCy4xei-2BAUFtzf381y11P8jXmOEIzT1-2B7Ec81E48XciVSz9VQmDoNtnlrNEJxnf48uacWaajQtj5AENuaR4lHoYQ7iiBCccuCJuTaeG0N1irKVi8y7JIdDVhVmYwwEtpa2b9sDrMWBPcvtpPI-3D) [*America Magazine*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3DJhjo_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutknBUbiTcgwgqLa-2BRiUA8KrrMuFcMNTD1PXrIKHKkgW2c4UxKt2JWRI36jjTB96KEoO5HD7xMC4wY5UJupWskD8btnKCnNY0aQnPigBnbBuiFnKtD5IolGqdkLzyFVtp2udHD2-2FnB8ZAVRd7tF8tF-2BJy-2Fwy8OtC9zt7uE5uTL-2BTk3DVUHFUbcrZElX-2Bk0D-2BZA4W5tks6MkA9Prp0KlOOfOV4-3D) [What Does Christianity Have to Say About the Olympics?](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMJmBfCmxnxjXoW82UzxgvdpQJ8VKxuL6uYJPTRAqdngAaNdjNzbrDwwUiHTxfX2TM-2BoBB83KT6u0SDOt4N6ct3ih4dYwI0RHqgW3lsOpxGhnQxbtrUlZkeduZyj7FoQIA-3D-3DQkJz_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkip0-2Foq5RK4t5fv2gR-2Fn1QMgUHFHvq9u8b3ckWs4seK8-2BngZ4MzcDABlu7qsP6ZhUqrLkUkng3qhf28MvE3XgkisTyVPC2wDiHjPpnBpuiUiXN1tm-2BmSKSHyMqgwZzX9dt1BIn6gwe8dPMikJOdOC2vWxBY-2BrFoOXf-2Bd2yXRbaE7-2BTP-2FStCxArepyI4L4FwVjCnpH9WiUXcuOpqAhtTPteM-3D) [*Diocese of Tucson*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMJmBfCmxnxjXoW82UzxgvdpQJ8VKxuL6uYJPTRAqdngAaNdjNzbrDwwUiHTxfX2TM-2BoBB83KT6u0SDOt4N6ct3ih4dYwI0RHqgW3lsOpxGhnQxbtrUlZkeduZyj7FoQIA-3D-3D-2re_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutko7fZHbsZYM6TDYU2Qp0NygIk4dKlLjfXsTW-2B8KxYqjGYuP3VBnfY2rrvLOXmCw5UjSBAWRTVXhTQrvAMfc226MA3RHljp3eI6q631a16wtO04SiAljHsaOEzerQ3BTMxOBhtK17Ob63x4THmZz1GvGX8Aw5-2FmJPL5UswRo-2BKJIXBeG4qw2wH-2FWGJgsjdijoyRBgSorjk7z9awNGsVr78gM-3D) **Applying the News Story** Reflect on the stories of the athletes in the Winter Olympics, and on your own experiences with sports and physical fitness. Discuss the role of religion in athletic achievement, the link between faith and fitness, and the question of what it means to glorify God as an athlete. TWW Team Member Malia Miller says that since the theme of the Olympics this year is peace, it is "fitting that the Prince of Peace is being celebrated by so many elite athletes at the games." **The Big Questions** 1. How is religion a framework for resilience, and a resource for dealing with pressure and stress? When, if ever, have you found prayer and religious ritual to be a source of strength? 2. When has your faith kept you calm before an athletic contest, or some other high-stress event? What elements of your faith are able to give you peace and serenity? In what ways do religious beliefs help people to heal from injury or loss? 3. How can a person adhere to religious practice while competing at a high level, in athletics or in some other pursuit? When does faith support competition, and when does it work against it? Be specific. 4. Where do you make connections between faith and fitness? How do religious beliefs shape behavior both inside and outside a sporting event? 5. What does it mean to glorify God as an athlete? How is winning a medal connected to this, if at all? When is God glorified by an athlete who ends up in last place? **Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope**Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: **Jeremiah 29:11***For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.* (For context, read [Jeremiah 29:4-14](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxJvgik996U85rhX2pdLmiu3Rr3FFWskoJsLWkyLAVxwIlUNF17CaDI-2FI2Haq8Bn-2Fmb5t-_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkjiea-2FrTLg42wBg0Fr2YEGzK9N-2BopfBteoElNdDLcnikpmObC3Hhxk8-2BVsjZ6s-2FRlLOzccxi2V7c8-2F1vtgnFJW92kI7sTqHzsEgcPUsK4JkKzz60CsSSF9aM0NIKaDq3Fi5J9-2BEsj7QnYuKifyyrqAdlYWQO-2FkkN4s8knWtyDXBbdsVl-2FoYIWJS-2B7t3owCnLilsr-2FM490F-2BUeKZ-2BfQg1Rm8-3D).) This line is the favorite Scripture verse of bobsledder Jadin O'Brien. In it, God is speaking to the people of Israel through the prophet Jeremiah, telling them that they will prosper while in exile -- for them, Babylon will be a place of goodness, not of desolation. Through the opening portion of chapter 29, Jeremiah is telling the people in exile to be realistic and to accept that their exile will not end soon. God says through the prophet that the people should build houses, plant gardens, and allow their families to grow in Babylon. Jeremiah says they are to "seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare" (v. 7). The success of the exiles will depend on the success of Babylon. God says that it will be 70 years until the people are allowed to return home to Jerusalem. But they should not despair, because the Lord has plans for their welfare and not for harm, to give them "a future with hope." When the people pray, God will hear them. When they search for God, they will find him. Eventually, God will restore their fortunes and bring them home. > **Questions:** Why would an athlete find encouragement in God's promise of welfare and "a future with hope"? What connections do you make between years of athletic training and the years the Israelites spent in exile? When have you had to work hard and wait a long time before discovering the plan that God had for you? **Mark 12:29-30***Jesus answered, "The first is, 'Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'"* (For context, read [Mark 12:28-34](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx9HBxI91lCe4gmk9wTqYnNFYvWgxDRQXz7MK80TGjiXDl4Dfv4me0lEStrqHUHRehB030_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutklmcTFS6AUY1LSowkCJ52TTSCF-2FGJq5ac7ogrBh0VYM1qCT4dYbf1-2F-2Fvwj1TSNmYp8MS-2Bsha7ji2jjuurmB-2B-2BSsCirp1Pl1q8KU2nnmZX7wD8rNValWmZkiAnUFnenQE6-2BGZgX7vmXtlwsPWIbvJiEOrfaywUPFq68H-2FdPX2uJfBr7024xzss-2B-2FHCyXq7VWSnXl337vNlblPdUR2MUmujs4-3D).) After entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, Jesus speaks in parables and spars with the Pharisees, Herodians and Sadducees. In the middle of one of these disputes, a scribe comes near and asks Jesus, "Which commandment is the first of all?" (v. 29). Quoting Deuteronomy 6:5, Jesus replies that it is to love God "with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." Then he adds a second commandment, from Leviticus 19:18, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (v. 31). The first of these commandments makes clear that God deserves our full devotion, dependence and dedication. We are to hold nothing back, but to love God not only with heart, soul and mind, but with all our "strength." When the scribe agrees that love of God and love of neighbor is more important than "all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices" (v. 33), Jesus says that he is "not far from the kingdom of God" (v. 34). > **Questions:** What does it mean to you to love God with "all your strength," as well as with your heart, soul and mind? How does such love bring faith and fitness together? Why does God want us to maintain a connection between our souls and our bodies? **1 Corinthians 9:24-27***Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it. Athletes exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one. So I do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating the air, but I punish my body and enslave it, so that after proclaiming to others I myself should not be disqualified.* (For context, read [1 Corinthians 9:19-27](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxOdlwvpIcp6dpBWksJaxTxNipzX3r-2FfDcyVMHCFIaKITB6X1PLDZikhQblZrlzIT6-2FS35rwfBIYInKZGeee0bQA-3D-3DjZh6_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkpYD7YlGXS4ySWhAdB6yoQxm1XIPzyMP68A1aZOiFCCtzm6vh3UcmGexQ6W3n9-2BREWACAzrHGNxNFO09BATSEqB0C4L27n6Ab0zy9xTXb6-2BOIn84VAsldBysJ16H-2Bs0muKBJve3UE2mM1HLCqUs0hwcZkCeUvgxYuehxT20SWiqfR7YjOwwwBiM5yya1lnGC-2FT3oBwKNfSotT9rAki5Csfo-3D).) The conflicts in the community of Christ-followers in Corinth leads the apostle Paul to offer, in the ninth chapter of 1 Corinthians, an extended defense of his role as an apostle. He calls himself a "slave to all" (v. 19), "a Jew, in order to gain Jews" (v. 20), "one outside the law" in order to "gain those outside the law" (v. 21), as well as one who is "weak, so that I might gain the weak" (v. 22). He is determined to be "all things to all people," so that he might save some (v. 22). He then shifts focus and describes himself as an athlete, saying that he has chosen to punish his body and enslave it. He points out that athletes "exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one." While Olympic medals can break, the rewards of our faith are not subject to rust, loss, theft, breakage or tarnishing. Why is that? Because they are immaterial, permanent, eternal things such as love, joy, peace and life in the beloved community. Athletes, singers, actors and politicians compete for earthly prizes, Super Bowl rings, offices, statuettes and recognition. But these contests pale in comparison to the rewards promised to those who are "faithful until death" (Revelation 2:10). As followers of Christ, we run not for a gold medal, but for eternal life with Christ. "Run in such a way that you may win it," Paul urges the Corinthians. "The Olympics can thus inspire us to strive not only for human achievement," says Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki in the [*Diocese of Tucson Online News*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMJmBfCmxnxjXoW82UzxgvdpQJ8VKxuL6uYJPTRAqdngAaNdjNzbrDwwUiHTxfX2TM-2BoBB83KT6u0SDOt4N6ct3ih4dYwI0RHqgW3lsOpxGhnQxbtrUlZkeduZyj7FoQIA-3D-3DOFTD_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkuajTJA-2BlmlURTz46nRBkBD9wo-2F-2Ft11J2z3MswXkhZp0cxZhHVtRiTL740F8rOALNNwBULUtXmiseTtAI2fXBwQsYQQTJUwvp7wL7NZe9QmmoAzKQR0WGJ5HZ0k0-2FeJSVmmwQ-2FSPFW4p3gX1i-2FWNVh1HmM5DKSZKeaWaFTe1IjCutlTu89dLqfgtjHJ2OWvV1OPnN765LMUfPq4cA2wdatM-3D), "but for the lasting victory found in Christ." > **Questions:** When have you exercised self-control in order to achieve a goal? What was the result? How are you focused on eternal life with Christ, and what choices are you making to move closer to this goal? What benefits come from such discipline, in this life and the next? **Hebrews 12:1-2***Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.* (No context needed.) The author of the letter to the Hebrews is writing to a disheartened group of believers, probably made up of Jews who had become followers of Christ. In chapter 12, he reminds them that they are surrounded by "a cloud of witnesses," faithful people from throughout the Hebrew Scriptures. He encourages them to be like runners who lay aside anything that will hinder them, looking only to Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of faith." In Greek, the "pioneer" is the trailblazer who opens a path for others, as well as the captain who finishes the race first. The word "perfecter" points to Jesus being the priest who brings his followers into the presence of God. When Jesus "endured the cross," he was able to take his seat at the right hand of God. The magazine [*America*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3D3E0Q_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkp4jehtx22liB-2BTziLRnXAQunUmWzj6hIhS1w4kkV6jMDuZanXX-2FU8vpoZloNAvFXqOvYvOCGuoCXIDPzJ-2FeGzpcRXNLvF6lGzfIXMSyXIHPNzoJsg3tKzQg-2F8p1xxYfupOPVgPA2dyu-2FQVoglyci2SjpL6lcvDYOxPV1-2BOcSuzI2eSDb08nXB8-2Bg7jocMA82TWAstA6iQvKmSpGJIi-2FnbQ-3D) reports that in 2019, skier Sam Morse co-founded the FAST Camp -- Faith And Ski Training -- a Christian ski racing camp in Oregon. The mission, focused on teens, is to "not only make our athletes faster, but also to tune into that inner joy and peace that comes with knowing we are part of something bigger" with "race training by day and faith training by night." Hebrews 12:1 is Morse's favorite verse. > **Questions:** Who is in your "cloud of witnesses," and how does it help you to remember that you are part of something bigger than yourself? When have you run with perseverance, in a foot race or some other context, and what did you gain from the experience? How are you helped by keeping your eyes on Jesus every day? **For Further Discussion** 1. The Grammys are awards given to those who compete musically, rather than athletically. In this year's awards ceremony, [the artist Jelly Roll said](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPL5BQftwDK5K63nIS2r-2FbPkTkJDClN-2F-2FD8-2F-2FIThRngS7PP20lgz4uHoEeWVrAwLr4eEPSuVQ6gDBNkTscrDHorv8AcKPpgn7TRAiiC2SM5SH-2Bp1bxPMnine5RZtNM6r8xePZTjjh44gMRmh6INi7s2CUUnL6u8D2fBYE-2B2vWAhhaWpP9_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkvK0shRzmdcGnaM4yfHazH5fypr4CuUgi5UqkPi0NazWh0W14L9DkOB5DE5DGJBpn20l7M6tiSNxoa4TQpFmWBhQ8qm4VmIk-2FocNFYIycpzo-2FsiuxHaO-2FXU74BkxJREdKF54GyXtazxfL0cgHSi34DvBjdWaM0zrSHuXA1KSMbQJfOhG1AoGkUwrqJjs8g9WxZnVdwNiT4VxUwdSJZeuW4Y-3D), "Jesus is for everybody," after winning for his contemporary country album "Beautifully Broken." He went on to say, "Jesus is not owned by one political party. Jesus is not owned by no music label." Why do you think he made this statement about Jesus? What was his message to America? How did it glorify God, if at all? 2. Olympian Elana Meyers Taylor is a mother to two sons with fellow bobsledder Nicholas Taylor, her husband. Their sons, Nico and Noah, were both born deaf, and Nico, who was born in 2020, has Down syndrome. [*America*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3D9PGX_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkvhsUdcb6M-2FaC-2Fntq-2F7bRYmTEAeDoU0XTBz36Q83O0Be0Snop238X3vRsDxGMoJCQbqS66CKJMTwUxPsZVJr5YoyFoP5b-2FHNT8S-2BtuFCkxtrvlNBHVysv-2BUA-2Bq-2B-2BuRgn-2BcAb2JvHSGT3gACuVprp50PXxVz706kGvRw1myJkd6JmRgdGhXN6PuGhy7qK71qLgniGY9VS3x-2FemGuoivGUtx4-3D) reports that by returning to the Olympics, she wants to demonstrate what is possible as a parent of a child with special needs. "I want people to see Nico and see what joy we have in our lives," she said. "It can be hard, but I also want to show that you can do it. I wouldn't change our journey for the world." What is the value of an athlete highlighting her role as a parent of a child with special needs? How is her faith connected to her joy? When have you faced hardship but found meaning in your difficult journey? 3. In London in 1908, Anglican Bishop Ethelbert Talbot said, "The most important thing in these Olympics is not so much winning as taking part" -- a phrase that became part of the Olympic creed. He was following in the footsteps of the Rev. Henri Didon, a Catholic priest who gets credit for the official Olympic motto "*citius, altius, fortius*" (faster, higher, stronger). Why is taking part in a competition more important than winning? When, if ever, has this been true for you? What is the value of becoming faster, higher and stronger in life outside the Olympics? How does God help with such a quest? 4. Christian skier Paul Schommer is competing in his second Olympics on the biathlon team. According to [*America*](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3DftS__-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkvI01gLZx0vwF2Tkx-2B5RXYtuFZ8PGKa-2Bk7r7-2FO2fnTOWsA3-2FZFE-2BK-2Bc0ztVOu64rZE-2FDNUI91eToiB7UcVt6A5NDMd5rdTj8ZNWhRgZLGrlfAPHvHY61BQk0j97GDQu0gY-2FvAsDFgLFkCasNh0LbRX0ZytNbh3vq7yom-2B-2BCEDFPRZRkCO8JeReLWCxXkCD4LmWk4k4BZJ5Td-2BU23l-2BcXCQk-3D), he said, "prayer is huge" in his life because "it's constantly having that communication with God. It helps me get in the right mindset and gain a good perspective on things. For me, a lot of times I'd see it gets worse when you start praying at God instead of opening up that two-way communication and really listening to him. The most important prayer for me is just shutting up and listening to God." When has this been true for you, if at all? Offer details. **Responding to the News** Identify a practice that will strengthen you physically and spiritually, and make it a part of your life for the next month. See how it impacts the health of your body and your soul. As you move forward, keep your eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of your faith. **Prayer** We thank you, Creator God, for inviting us to love you with our whole heart, soul, mind and strength. Help us to glorify you, to keep body and soul together, and to face challenges with the knowledge that you are with us, working for our welfare and not for harm. We pray all this in the name of Jesus, the one who is fully human and fully divine. Amen. ****Copyright 2026 Communication Resources**** [Unsubscribe From This List](https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/asm/unsubscribe/?user_id=14323725&data=tXDh8K0oSHJkx7rk2GOvVv7ibDM1MmyPvw1JGcTBHudoMDAwdTAwMFoSMOGP--RXsLuxeU-l-OtfcoJxJNFNfDlMB85O5UA4KZSy0rItmuRoXdaHGu5vU7Q7yREvm5XR-zICVc6hOYXOj2IwdHxMx9SY0AZMM3lQ0aY2-9BuL-kauzjd7-lFxpJqt4oVrVRxfh_yi9GTl17WbvRDxKz4WPQsUWvOx9EJUQid-vuCW7NZ1bwfv5c_VL-SJbIKYlEhQUmCDdqu1q4gh_2vMB-JF2zM35A3TMS0PPS6BlG5LEQygEUCv1zbyVVUc6_BPM7gc9b4mTwZH4Wsz7yPXFpNCt1VRwP_Klcrbl557PiudrcCCxbcY-WW7fFwVbvNv9fgJeXpvtBYVwcz0uXTDYsRt0grwXWQJYA27pw2AR3U1VUVacbDQ6cKSmKS3-D2LrQgWlvMfcQdjBKz6n_kQmhevE5bHh5hdkTqSHhXrvMzV2G4efKeRxNWtyeFXfHq0UkHyhw5HWyWLONyNcACUIbAoBA1dc5vDh5BK4TsaafZTwXGHzEABA2woYuB1BH2zKQFGBDF4xeV_i6FUCPl6DYw10E19IoBNsq7-jkOZAHPB1B-UVXCmsOsSCaEnv1Jc_cYDHdZYUPRM3w=) <div>Dear Class Members, Since the Winter Olympics are underway, this installment of The Wired Word will focus on the role of religion in athletic achievement, the link between faith and fitness, and the question of what it means to glorify God. <center><img src="https://www.thewiredword.com/\_img/tww\_logo\_email.jpg"/></center> Athletes Take Their Faith to the Winter Olympics The Wired Word for the Week of February 15, 2026 In the News The 2026 Winter Olympics have begun in Milan Cortina, with a wide range of events including bobsled, skeleton, biathlon, hockey, skiing, speed skating, figure skating and curling. The Olympics are a celebration of physical excellence, national pride, perseverance and determination, and many athletes rely on their faith to help them face the challenges of the events. "Religion can offer athletes a framework for resilience," notes Religion Unplugged, "especially in a world defined by so much pressure and scrutiny. Some Olympians have spoken openly about prayer and rituals as main sources of strength." Faith and spirituality play an important role in the manner in which they train and compete. Elana Meyers Taylor is a bobsledder representing the United States, and is also a practicing Christian. "God put me here for a specific reason, and I don't think it's just to win medals," she said. "At the end of the day, I'm in this sport to glorify God, so if that means I come in last place, or I win the gold medal, that's what I'm going to do." Taylor's partner in the two-woman bobsled is Jadin O’Brien, a three-time track and field national champion for the University of Notre Dame. According to America, she relied on her Catholic faith to help her through a struggle with Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated with Streptococcal Infections, a condition that she faced in childhood. O'Brien has said that her faith keeps her calm before and during big meets. "Athletics has helped build my faith by putting me in situations where I can put what I believe into practice." Adam "A.J." Edelman was born in the United States, but he competes for Israel in skeleton and bobsled. Edelman is the first Orthodox Jew to compete in the Winter Olympics. "I think a lot of Jews use observance as an excuse," he said. "A lot of chess tournaments are held on [the Jewish Sabbath], yet we do have quite a few chess players." For him, observance of Jewish laws and rituals does not prevent him from competing at a very high level. American Paul Schommer competes in the biathlon -- a combination of cross-country skiing and shooting. He believes that his relationship with Christ has sustained him at every level of athletic competition. "The biggest thing I've learned is just the faithfulness of God always coming through," he said. "Without feeling called and led by God, there would be a good chance I would've quit right after I first started the biathlon." Jaccob Slavin plays for the NHL's Carolina Hurricanes and is a returning member of the United States Hockey Team. He was raised in a Christian home and has talked about how his faith shapes his conduct both on and off the ice. Outside of the Olympics, he and his wife are active in Christian adoption advocacy. Speed skater Brittany Bowe of the United States has talked about her Christian beliefs in public and has credited her faith during her comeback from injury. Katie Uhlaender, a member of Team USA in skeleton, has competed in five Olympic Games. "She has spoken about her Christian beliefs in past interviews," reports Jubileecast, "especially in relation to recovering from injuries and coping with the loss of her father." Adherents of other religions believe that their faith is equally important. Another athlete, skier Eileen Gu, was born in the United States and now competes for China in the halfpipe, slopestyle and big air events. "I recently converted to Buddhism." she said. "I'm working on letting go of a sense of self." Alpine skier Arif Khan represents India, and is a Muslim who lives in a Hindu-majority nation. He wants to succeed so that he can have a positive impact on the young people of his home region. He said that his dream has always been to "inspire them toward their own goals." "The Olympic Games are a showcase for exceptional athletes to demonstrate how their commitment to achieving excellence through hard work and effort bears fruit in their respective sports," writes Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki, who is a hockey goalie and marathon runner. The games remind him that greatness is never achieved without sacrifice, discipline and perseverance. "When we apply the principles of sport -- faithful practice, obedience to the rules, resilience after failure, self-control, discipline and trust in a greater goal -- to our spiritual lives, then our discipleship is strengthened and our soul is made stronger and better prepared to meet God." More on this story can be found at these links: <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOLfAH0t-2BLCFDkq-2BbjeFACTrsxeH2-2BKyf-2F8oEwtXpBpZo35uWtp92JjLt4dHXx-2BF65ax8ymBYqmTICerT24TUwFxbQqgeM564VroBsPstz8MQZZvenoYxC5x0VyCXRbzs5qOlyiKSwoFDro-2BrjBqX2Y-3DKLtU\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutklzR0-2FQxhUa3LFIHkNVcgjy7lVAvF-2BZenYo7D0KpaOr-2FQJQF4OFC3J9Ij9e-2FA47HLMRuT7zb1xH-2FpwgH1wnDwCjQ1-2FoUlLx7MV947zP3ijrFA7YBZ-2Fc8c9FP9MIJF5XMGhGrrPljfewVqDy-2BI37-2FNlzouAcQU2GfF1ms4rxPjShHsApdfRf9CXTmLmkqcFjTLPfluXkqur5H0qhH1nPMAO8-3D">5 Winter Olympians Who Rely on Faith in the Quest for Gold Medals. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPOLfAH0t-2BLCFDkq-2BbjeFACTrsxeH2-2BKyf-2F8oEwtXpBpZo35uWtp92JjLt4dHXx-2BF65ax8ymBYqmTICerT24TUwFxbQqgeM564VroBsPstz8MQZZvenoYxC5x0VyCXRbzs5qOlyiKSwoFDro-2BrjBqX2Y-3DQXBk\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkhegBzhV-2B0TVIrR8W3OlKMzTwSx8SpmdURFp2JfjsbGL3qvF4Cp4TkTI-2BgVnHvZt8ngL3guyWklBMbz0SYywtMjZF-2FrAX3iC6u-2Bx0YZgYMpd-2BTz882bpZRCdzCkyCq7awRcigUjf6XSQMCRD3PAjvdBN4Gn-2Bb2oFlNB-2Fz9w7eF3D5pPKS-2FSQDYIJ-2BaLDZ5PuMI-2BjTMf3ZMbLrde2o-2FOtuk0-3D">Religion Unplugged</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEw7ecIfuU-2FybDS0LP68xiyanZwxKI57Zb4rk81tyu8TFsSjDiNoEWai2h7dQCYPzWmqIPJxMMfzXona0lUsqc-2Fe6XxYw8eyUqpyrAV5FENU-2FAjXvBTfVHDKDBWiHkkLMA-3D-3DafUJ\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkm0fssj44rhCb08sJzy4aEdwNL7wgqGhpqWtsDCI9a6DoFOPDt7xC6DlLa2ZqJvx0PTuWsGRaxs0lFESDFreI1exq-2FrhwEIEHuM93MRtvhr0ZakGIGY0KN4IwxvgswYT81bzzMWiyfBY0I5F0I9mRCDrIurQTXxzJGZk4g4hq44AixaMQnp5xTbDvwrA8D5sym82XFv-2B7okrmM2DFot7fRc-3D">7 Christian Athletes to Watch at the 2026 Winter Olympics. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPEw7ecIfuU-2FybDS0LP68xiyanZwxKI57Zb4rk81tyu8TFsSjDiNoEWai2h7dQCYPzWmqIPJxMMfzXona0lUsqc-2Fe6XxYw8eyUqpyrAV5FENU-2FAjXvBTfVHDKDBWiHkkLMA-3D-3DHiXz\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkp99vQMW1xZ1Vzzbfrols8UA-2FDQFWuM5y3Yx6Ivp93hglJO-2BIzPUwgoIXRBQCEgjl7QbbvVQma-2FntnN068tR5Mpjak0kHrgieMWgSo8eZsWbilBY7eXcAzfDVLHRRW8aLpkSuzmvmpH6k-2FWz5dBtP0PkrAUDn6BZ9uGzTy3UVi-2BL5uQ1B5cbf0aaawvqC13XzTaO4DW1HkaimcEPNvibVb8-3D">Jubileecast</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3DdN0l\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkhJ7n0O2TOdhq0edTQzayVtGas2NnxBXOAV-2B8ODHOU9DZC-2FhOVynoX4k7ZgIjV751EQrvvKCy4xei-2BAUFtzf381y11P8jXmOEIzT1-2B7Ec81E48XciVSz9VQmDoNtnlrNEJxnf48uacWaajQtj5AENuaR4lHoYQ7iiBCccuCJuTaeG0N1irKVi8y7JIdDVhVmYwwEtpa2b9sDrMWBPcvtpPI-3D">These Olympic Athletes Are Leaning on Christian Faith Going Into the Winter Games. </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3DJhjo\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutknBUbiTcgwgqLa-2BRiUA8KrrMuFcMNTD1PXrIKHKkgW2c4UxKt2JWRI36jjTB96KEoO5HD7xMC4wY5UJupWskD8btnKCnNY0aQnPigBnbBuiFnKtD5IolGqdkLzyFVtp2udHD2-2FnB8ZAVRd7tF8tF-2BJy-2Fwy8OtC9zt7uE5uTL-2BTk3DVUHFUbcrZElX-2Bk0D-2BZA4W5tks6MkA9Prp0KlOOfOV4-3D">America Magazine</a> <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMJmBfCmxnxjXoW82UzxgvdpQJ8VKxuL6uYJPTRAqdngAaNdjNzbrDwwUiHTxfX2TM-2BoBB83KT6u0SDOt4N6ct3ih4dYwI0RHqgW3lsOpxGhnQxbtrUlZkeduZyj7FoQIA-3D-3DQkJz\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkip0-2Foq5RK4t5fv2gR-2Fn1QMgUHFHvq9u8b3ckWs4seK8-2BngZ4MzcDABlu7qsP6ZhUqrLkUkng3qhf28MvE3XgkisTyVPC2wDiHjPpnBpuiUiXN1tm-2BmSKSHyMqgwZzX9dt1BIn6gwe8dPMikJOdOC2vWxBY-2BrFoOXf-2Bd2yXRbaE7-2BTP-2FStCxArepyI4L4FwVjCnpH9WiUXcuOpqAhtTPteM-3D">What Does Christianity Have to Say About the Olympics? </a><a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMJmBfCmxnxjXoW82UzxgvdpQJ8VKxuL6uYJPTRAqdngAaNdjNzbrDwwUiHTxfX2TM-2BoBB83KT6u0SDOt4N6ct3ih4dYwI0RHqgW3lsOpxGhnQxbtrUlZkeduZyj7FoQIA-3D-3D-2re\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutko7fZHbsZYM6TDYU2Qp0NygIk4dKlLjfXsTW-2B8KxYqjGYuP3VBnfY2rrvLOXmCw5UjSBAWRTVXhTQrvAMfc226MA3RHljp3eI6q631a16wtO04SiAljHsaOEzerQ3BTMxOBhtK17Ob63x4THmZz1GvGX8Aw5-2FmJPL5UswRo-2BKJIXBeG4qw2wH-2FWGJgsjdijoyRBgSorjk7z9awNGsVr78gM-3D">Diocese of Tucson</a> Applying the News Story Reflect on the stories of the athletes in the Winter Olympics, and on your own experiences with sports and physical fitness. Discuss the role of religion in athletic achievement, the link between faith and fitness, and the question of what it means to glorify God as an athlete. TWW Team Member Malia Miller says that since the theme of the Olympics this year is peace, it is "fitting that the Prince of Peace is being celebrated by so many elite athletes at the games." The Big Questions 1. How is religion a framework for resilience, and a resource for dealing with pressure and stress? When, if ever, have you found prayer and religious ritual to be a source of strength? 2. When has your faith kept you calm before an athletic contest, or some other high-stress event? What elements of your faith are able to give you peace and serenity? In what ways do religious beliefs help people to heal from injury or loss? 3. How can a person adhere to religious practice while competing at a high level, in athletics or in some other pursuit? When does faith support competition, and when does it work against it? Be specific. 4. Where do you make connections between faith and fitness? How do religious beliefs shape behavior both inside and outside a sporting event? 5. What does it mean to glorify God as an athlete? How is winning a medal connected to this, if at all? When is God glorified by an athlete who ends up in last place? Confronting the News With Scripture and Hope Here are some Bible verses to guide your discussion: Jeremiah 29:11 For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxJvgik996U85rhX2pdLmiu3Rr3FFWskoJsLWkyLAVxwIlUNF17CaDI-2FI2Haq8Bn-2Fmb5t-\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkjiea-2FrTLg42wBg0Fr2YEGzK9N-2BopfBteoElNdDLcnikpmObC3Hhxk8-2BVsjZ6s-2FRlLOzccxi2V7c8-2F1vtgnFJW92kI7sTqHzsEgcPUsK4JkKzz60CsSSF9aM0NIKaDq3Fi5J9-2BEsj7QnYuKifyyrqAdlYWQO-2FkkN4s8knWtyDXBbdsVl-2FoYIWJS-2B7t3owCnLilsr-2FM490F-2BUeKZ-2BfQg1Rm8-3D">Jeremiah 29:4-14</a>.) This line is the favorite Scripture verse of bobsledder Jadin O'Brien. In it, God is speaking to the people of Israel through the prophet Jeremiah, telling them that they will prosper while in exile -- for them, Babylon will be a place of goodness, not of desolation. Through the opening portion of chapter 29, Jeremiah is telling the people in exile to be realistic and to accept that their exile will not end soon. God says through the prophet that the people should build houses, plant gardens, and allow their families to grow in Babylon. Jeremiah says they are to "seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the LORD on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare" (v. 7). The success of the exiles will depend on the success of Babylon. God says that it will be 70 years until the people are allowed to return home to Jerusalem. But they should not despair, because the Lord has plans for their welfare and not for harm, to give them "a future with hope." When the people pray, God will hear them. When they search for God, they will find him. Eventually, God will restore their fortunes and bring them home. <blockquote> Questions: Why would an athlete find encouragement in God's promise of welfare and "a future with hope"? What connections do you make between years of athletic training and the years the Israelites spent in exile? When have you had to work hard and wait a long time before discovering the plan that God had for you? </blockquote> Mark 12:29-30 Jesus answered, "The first is, 'Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'" (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzx9HBxI91lCe4gmk9wTqYnNFYvWgxDRQXz7MK80TGjiXDl4Dfv4me0lEStrqHUHRehB030\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutklmcTFS6AUY1LSowkCJ52TTSCF-2FGJq5ac7ogrBh0VYM1qCT4dYbf1-2F-2Fvwj1TSNmYp8MS-2Bsha7ji2jjuurmB-2B-2BSsCirp1Pl1q8KU2nnmZX7wD8rNValWmZkiAnUFnenQE6-2BGZgX7vmXtlwsPWIbvJiEOrfaywUPFq68H-2FdPX2uJfBr7024xzss-2B-2FHCyXq7VWSnXl337vNlblPdUR2MUmujs4-3D">Mark 12:28-34</a>.) After entering Jerusalem on Palm Sunday, Jesus speaks in parables and spars with the Pharisees, Herodians and Sadducees. In the middle of one of these disputes, a scribe comes near and asks Jesus, "Which commandment is the first of all?" (v. 29). Quoting Deuteronomy 6:5, Jesus replies that it is to love God "with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." Then he adds a second commandment, from Leviticus 19:18, "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (v. 31). The first of these commandments makes clear that God deserves our full devotion, dependence and dedication. We are to hold nothing back, but to love God not only with heart, soul and mind, but with all our "strength." When the scribe agrees that love of God and love of neighbor is more important than "all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices" (v. 33), Jesus says that he is "not far from the kingdom of God" (v. 34). <blockquote> Questions: What does it mean to you to love God with "all your strength," as well as with your heart, soul and mind? How does such love bring faith and fitness together? Why does God want us to maintain a connection between our souls and our bodies? </blockquote> 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 Do you not know that in a race the runners all compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win it. Athletes exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one. So I do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating the air, but I punish my body and enslave it, so that after proclaiming to others I myself should not be disqualified. (For context, read <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPIPMr3QdAndcnhgARhLxPRBMJBYCTolkbvW-2F0TosyGzxOdlwvpIcp6dpBWksJaxTxNipzX3r-2FfDcyVMHCFIaKITB6X1PLDZikhQblZrlzIT6-2FS35rwfBIYInKZGeee0bQA-3D-3DjZh6\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkpYD7YlGXS4ySWhAdB6yoQxm1XIPzyMP68A1aZOiFCCtzm6vh3UcmGexQ6W3n9-2BREWACAzrHGNxNFO09BATSEqB0C4L27n6Ab0zy9xTXb6-2BOIn84VAsldBysJ16H-2Bs0muKBJve3UE2mM1HLCqUs0hwcZkCeUvgxYuehxT20SWiqfR7YjOwwwBiM5yya1lnGC-2FT3oBwKNfSotT9rAki5Csfo-3D">1 Corinthians 9:19-27</a>.) The conflicts in the community of Christ-followers in Corinth leads the apostle Paul to offer, in the ninth chapter of 1 Corinthians, an extended defense of his role as an apostle. He calls himself a "slave to all" (v. 19), "a Jew, in order to gain Jews" (v. 20), "one outside the law" in order to "gain those outside the law" (v. 21), as well as one who is "weak, so that I might gain the weak" (v. 22). He is determined to be "all things to all people," so that he might save some (v. 22). He then shifts focus and describes himself as an athlete, saying that he has chosen to punish his body and enslave it. He points out that athletes "exercise self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one." While Olympic medals can break, the rewards of our faith are not subject to rust, loss, theft, breakage or tarnishing. Why is that? Because they are immaterial, permanent, eternal things such as love, joy, peace and life in the beloved community. Athletes, singers, actors and politicians compete for earthly prizes, Super Bowl rings, offices, statuettes and recognition. But these contests pale in comparison to the rewards promised to those who are "faithful until death" (Revelation 2:10). As followers of Christ, we run not for a gold medal, but for eternal life with Christ. "Run in such a way that you may win it," Paul urges the Corinthians. "The Olympics can thus inspire us to strive not only for human achievement," says Bishop Thomas J. Paprocki in the <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPMJmBfCmxnxjXoW82UzxgvdpQJ8VKxuL6uYJPTRAqdngAaNdjNzbrDwwUiHTxfX2TM-2BoBB83KT6u0SDOt4N6ct3ih4dYwI0RHqgW3lsOpxGhnQxbtrUlZkeduZyj7FoQIA-3D-3DOFTD\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkuajTJA-2BlmlURTz46nRBkBD9wo-2F-2Ft11J2z3MswXkhZp0cxZhHVtRiTL740F8rOALNNwBULUtXmiseTtAI2fXBwQsYQQTJUwvp7wL7NZe9QmmoAzKQR0WGJ5HZ0k0-2FeJSVmmwQ-2FSPFW4p3gX1i-2FWNVh1HmM5DKSZKeaWaFTe1IjCutlTu89dLqfgtjHJ2OWvV1OPnN765LMUfPq4cA2wdatM-3D">Diocese of Tucson Online News</a>, "but for the lasting victory found in Christ." <blockquote> Questions: When have you exercised self-control in order to achieve a goal? What was the result? How are you focused on eternal life with Christ, and what choices are you making to move closer to this goal? What benefits come from such discipline, in this life and the next? </blockquote> Hebrews 12:1-2 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and the sin that clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God. (No context needed.) The author of the letter to the Hebrews is writing to a disheartened group of believers, probably made up of Jews who had become followers of Christ. In chapter 12, he reminds them that they are surrounded by "a cloud of witnesses," faithful people from throughout the Hebrew Scriptures. He encourages them to be like runners who lay aside anything that will hinder them, looking only to Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of faith." In Greek, the "pioneer" is the trailblazer who opens a path for others, as well as the captain who finishes the race first. The word "perfecter" points to Jesus being the priest who brings his followers into the presence of God. When Jesus "endured the cross," he was able to take his seat at the right hand of God. The magazine <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3D3E0Q\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkp4jehtx22liB-2BTziLRnXAQunUmWzj6hIhS1w4kkV6jMDuZanXX-2FU8vpoZloNAvFXqOvYvOCGuoCXIDPzJ-2FeGzpcRXNLvF6lGzfIXMSyXIHPNzoJsg3tKzQg-2F8p1xxYfupOPVgPA2dyu-2FQVoglyci2SjpL6lcvDYOxPV1-2BOcSuzI2eSDb08nXB8-2Bg7jocMA82TWAstA6iQvKmSpGJIi-2FnbQ-3D">America</a> reports that in 2019, skier Sam Morse co-founded the FAST Camp -- Faith And Ski Training -- a Christian ski racing camp in Oregon. The mission, focused on teens, is to "not only make our athletes faster, but also to tune into that inner joy and peace that comes with knowing we are part of something bigger" with "race training by day and faith training by night." Hebrews 12:1 is Morse's favorite verse. <blockquote> Questions: Who is in your "cloud of witnesses," and how does it help you to remember that you are part of something bigger than yourself? When have you run with perseverance, in a foot race or some other context, and what did you gain from the experience? How are you helped by keeping your eyes on Jesus every day? </blockquote> For Further Discussion 1. The Grammys are awards given to those who compete musically, rather than athletically. In this year's awards ceremony, <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPL5BQftwDK5K63nIS2r-2FbPkTkJDClN-2F-2FD8-2F-2FIThRngS7PP20lgz4uHoEeWVrAwLr4eEPSuVQ6gDBNkTscrDHorv8AcKPpgn7TRAiiC2SM5SH-2Bp1bxPMnine5RZtNM6r8xePZTjjh44gMRmh6INi7s2CUUnL6u8D2fBYE-2B2vWAhhaWpP9\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkvK0shRzmdcGnaM4yfHazH5fypr4CuUgi5UqkPi0NazWh0W14L9DkOB5DE5DGJBpn20l7M6tiSNxoa4TQpFmWBhQ8qm4VmIk-2FocNFYIycpzo-2FsiuxHaO-2FXU74BkxJREdKF54GyXtazxfL0cgHSi34DvBjdWaM0zrSHuXA1KSMbQJfOhG1AoGkUwrqJjs8g9WxZnVdwNiT4VxUwdSJZeuW4Y-3D">the artist Jelly Roll said</a>, "Jesus is for everybody," after winning for his contemporary country album "Beautifully Broken." He went on to say, "Jesus is not owned by one political party. Jesus is not owned by no music label." Why do you think he made this statement about Jesus? What was his message to America? How did it glorify God, if at all? 2. Olympian Elana Meyers Taylor is a mother to two sons with fellow bobsledder Nicholas Taylor, her husband. Their sons, Nico and Noah, were both born deaf, and Nico, who was born in 2020, has Down syndrome. <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3D9PGX\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkvhsUdcb6M-2FaC-2Fntq-2F7bRYmTEAeDoU0XTBz36Q83O0Be0Snop238X3vRsDxGMoJCQbqS66CKJMTwUxPsZVJr5YoyFoP5b-2FHNT8S-2BtuFCkxtrvlNBHVysv-2BUA-2Bq-2B-2BuRgn-2BcAb2JvHSGT3gACuVprp50PXxVz706kGvRw1myJkd6JmRgdGhXN6PuGhy7qK71qLgniGY9VS3x-2FemGuoivGUtx4-3D">America</a> reports that by returning to the Olympics, she wants to demonstrate what is possible as a parent of a child with special needs. "I want people to see Nico and see what joy we have in our lives," she said. "It can be hard, but I also want to show that you can do it. I wouldn't change our journey for the world." What is the value of an athlete highlighting her role as a parent of a child with special needs? How is her faith connected to her joy? When have you faced hardship but found meaning in your difficult journey? 3. In London in 1908, Anglican Bishop Ethelbert Talbot said, "The most important thing in these Olympics is not so much winning as taking part" -- a phrase that became part of the Olympic creed. He was following in the footsteps of the Rev. Henri Didon, a Catholic priest who gets credit for the official Olympic motto "citius, altius, fortius" (faster, higher, stronger). Why is taking part in a competition more important than winning? When, if ever, has this been true for you? What is the value of becoming faster, higher and stronger in life outside the Olympics? How does God help with such a quest? 4. Christian skier Paul Schommer is competing in his second Olympics on the biathlon team. According to <a href="https://u14323725.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=u001.kR2s0BHA4IMM0a9cQYZVPBr1VcT-2BydTkNTsQcRmhmM-2BCdqWoRVjAwEYG5WJL2g6xkaPslxiTjOmk-2BvvXlHRD7OOqfE0oDfWKqLUs92C6rX7N5W7JL4ELid8hq4BKCg6uGVVtkrv-2FAOF6RHcnKikI5Q-3D-3DftS\_\_-2FDMt8DmC0b3MPPPEfxHbnxzgfJsbXDNMpwCP9nNwhUmwW6wkyKFLFNgtWOsfoWlqzJWknYznvBlIhQrMvSLcaZdhhbJIKGm-2F5qmCcYPIpJSn2obb9skqJf4MgaypxrLi7oLPa8a7eS7JtzjOXCCX8BHD-2F4cv9wFI-2FUH-2BL75pc25Hbh6RKf8EPZebHASiEu2b1aGXbOqJQ3Dnm6HAk92YmYs9JVd1PDY7UmIf9AVdH8MvSEctjfl9-2Buwhgm1TqmWwQcMgH8MAuHLX9t2ZOQutkvI01gLZx0vwF2Tkx-2B5RXYtuFZ8PGKa-2Bk7r7-2FO2fnTOWsA3-2FZFE-2BK-2Bc0ztVOu64rZE-2FDNUI91eToiB7UcVt6A5NDMd5rdTj8ZNWhRgZLGrlfAPHvHY61BQk0j97GDQu0gY-2FvAsDFgLFkCasNh0LbRX0ZytNbh3vq7yom-2B-2BCEDFPRZRkCO8JeReLWCxXkCD4LmWk4k4BZJ5Td-2BU23l-2BcXCQk-3D">America</a>, he said, "prayer is huge" in his life because "it's constantly having that communication with God. It helps me get in the right mindset and gain a good perspective on things. For me, a lot of times I'd see it gets worse when you start praying at God instead of opening up that two-way communication and really listening to him. The most important prayer for me is just shutting up and listening to God." When has this been true for you, if at all? Offer details. Responding to the News Identify a practice that will strengthen you physically and spiritually, and make it a part of your life for the next month. See how it impacts the health of your body and your soul. As you move forward, keep your eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of your faith. Prayer We thank you, Creator God, for inviting us to love you with our whole heart, soul, mind and strength. Help us to glorify you, to keep body and soul together, and to face challenges with the knowledge that you are with us, working for our welfare and not for harm. We pray all this in the name of Jesus, the one who is fully human and fully divine. Amen. 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