Vancouver 2010

What's so inspirational about the Olympics, considering I don't know the first thing about athletics, and have never played on a sport's team? As I watched the opening ceremonies in Vancouver, it wasn't about having the best show ever, but about what the show represented: teamwork, unity, and a pride in a country that generally takes a back seat in world affairs. The showcase of talent from the artists and athletes gives us hope that despite world turmoil such as crisis in Haiti, or global warming, we're working together to create a better world. We want to think of mankind as generally good, and there is a continual longing for unity and peace. If we only keep trying, we'll become the best we've ever been!

The sad reality is, that things get progressively worse! When you really do look with a worldview that is larger than Canada, and North America, you see how suffering and pain has only increased over time, and that redemption of our own accord is impossible. As we build our smart cities, we still find increasing crime and poverty. And so, once in a while, we look to something like Vancouver 2010 to feel a breath of fresh air, and to restore our faith and hope in mankind. And it keeps us striving for perfection, to help those we meet have a better life, and to get us out of our selfish thinking and behaviour.

And so, while we strive for this perfection, we should keep in mind that there is Redemption! There is one way and it is by becoming a mere traveller on this earth, recognizing that all we have is loaned to us from the Creator, who is our true Hope and Peace. It isn't a country. It isn't a team. It isn't world-class talent. It's a God who became a man, walked this earth, gathered no earthly possessions or home, and gave His life that we might live forever. So, while you spend the next 17 days being inspired by the young Olympians, spend some time considering your own journey, and what is truly worth your while.