Champions in Christ
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.” 2 Corinthians 2:14 ESV
This morning I was back in Fort Collins to give a keynote address to about 300 faculty and staff members of the Colorado Early Colleges network. This charter school organization is the largest in the state and was founded by longtime friend and former State Legislator Keith King.
The theme for this year is “Champion Your Future.” They did a great job in using that theme of “being a champion” and “making champions” to lay the foundation for a great school year. My remarks were on “The Making of a Champion.” I shared from my personal health crisis about the importance of a positive mind set and the support of others and applied that to the teacher’s work with students in shaping their lives and encouraging their future pursuits.
It was exciting to be see the dedication and commitment of these teachers. It also compelled me to consider what the Bible says about our “lot and status in life.” In the Bible we can see the Lord’s desire and provision enables us to be overcomers and not to be overcome by the world, difficulties of life, sin or even persecution.
The verse above remind us of Christ as the “Champion” who give us victory and leads us in the “victors parade.” Every professional sports team that wins a championship is treated to a parade to celebrate their achievement. While vastly different, it give us the idea that is pictured by Paul. Just as a team is recognized as a whole, there are always those who have made significant contributions. The star pitcher or hitter, the quarterback, or running back, for example.
Spiritually we can celebrate and be celebrated, but we understand it is all because of who Christ is and what He enables us to accomplish.
At the end of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians we find this verse. “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:58 ESV) The context of this verse relates to the victory that is ours over death. The “sting” of death has been removed, because of eternal life that Christ has provided.
Both verses begin with the exclamation, “Thanks be to God!” There is not doubt as to who is the focus and superstar. But the victory belongs to “us.” It is great to be on top, just because you are on the “right” team regardless of your ability or contribution. That is the way it is for us, when we join Christ’s “team.”
One final verse the comes to mind. “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.” (Revelation 12:11 NIV) This is victory over Satan. This is victory over persecution. This is being on top, even when it seems one is “down and out.” These are those who are triumphant because don’t give into fear, even of death, because they know the truth, “….The one who believes in me [Christ] will live, even though they die…” (John 11:25 NIV)
Prayer for today…. Lord, we join with the apostle of old declaring, “Thanks be to God!” He gives us victory, He leads us in triumph. He secures our future. Lord keep us close to You, the place where we be “champions” in life.