Were you able to see the opening ceremonies of the Olympics in China? What a spectacular performance was put on. Did you notice the beauty of the costumes, buildings and the fireworks. They did a wonderful job of presenting China to the world.

At the end of the ceremonies came the parade of athletes. When any of them were interviewed they spoke of what an honor it was to represent the United States in the Olympics. To be able to walk behind a flag that represents freedom for our fifty states evoked a spirit of pride among each of them. They waved to the crowd and if you listened you heard the crowd in the stands cheering for them. That had to be impressive.

But let me go you one better! As proud as those athletes are, it is even better to walk under the banner of Christ Jesus. To know that everyday that we live we have a King who loves us and only wants the best for each of our lives, is astounding. Christ loved each one of us enough to go to a cross and die in a cruel and humiliating way. He did this not because He was ordered to, or because He was forced into it. He chose to simply go to the cross and save all of humanity. The Hebrew writer tells us that He “has been tempted in all things as we have, yet without sin.” (Heb. 4:15) We also see in Romans 5;8, “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” John wrote, “and I lay down My life for the sheep.” (John 10:15) Jesus’ life was not taken from Him but He freely gave it.

It is wonderful to represent your country, but even more so to represent the Christ who died for you. Each day as you walk through this life you have the opportunity to honor Christ or to ignore Him. You have the opportunity to point others to Him or to cause them to slander the name of Christ.

So, are you walking with God today? His love for you will continue always as you seek Him. Seek Him today and every day that God gives you breath on this earth.