Those planning and delivering the London Olympics and Paralympics always hoped that there would be a great legacy from their efforts. A committee of members of the House of Lords wonders whether their dreams will be fulfilled.
It is much easier to talk about making profound changes in the ways the general public might engage with sport at all levels than it is to make it happen.
We know that from our own lives.
We may resolve to go to the gym, or to walk more often, or to use the bike, but I wonder what the reality is. For myself, I only seem to manage to go swimming twice a week, which is fewer times than I would like.
Translating words and dreams into action is a struggle we all live with. How can we be changed?
What legacy will there be from those of us who seek to follow Christ?
It is striking that St. Paul often reminds the young churches to which he writes his letters that God is in the business of changing lives.
In his letter to the young church in Colossae, Paul says, 'The Good News is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful grace.
...... the love for others that the Holy Spirit has given you.
The way you live will always honour and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better.' (edited highlights from Colossians 1.6-10)
As we grow to know Jesus better, and learn to live as people of faith shown in active obedience, we will be changed by God. Paul repeatedly uses the idea of fruit growing - which takes months and years to happen. The fruit of Christ-like lives is the legacy that we should expect to see in our lives - in ordinary acts of kindness and patience, mercy and courage.
Best wishes,
Richard
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