Ephesians 6:15 Hard Landing
and having strapped on your feet the preparation of the gospel of peace;
Being an athlete is remarkably similar to being a warrior, and lifelong preparation is needed for most athletes. Two Olympic figure skaters, Nancy Kerrigan, who started at six, and Tonya Harding at 3. All figure skaters dream of being a part of the Winter Olympics and winning a gold medal. So, like warriors, they train and prepare to qualify for the Olympics. Tonya and Nancy were both qualified for the 1994 Winter Olympics, but a horrible assault had happened. On January 6, 1996, Nancy was assaulted on her lower thigh, bruising her badly but did not break any bones. Tonya’s ex-husband had planned the attack, and he paid another individual for the assault. The assault was so that Nancy could not finish the 1994 United States Figure Skating Championship which worked. But the attack was also supposed to keep Nancy from performing in the 1994 Olympics, but she recovered and won a silver medal. Tonya won the 1994 US Figure Skating Championship, but her title was taken when discovered she was involved in planning the attack on Nancy. The whole armor of God is played out in the 1994 Winter Olympics. Tonya could take part. Tonya had issues with her skate laces, even showing the event judges her laces had loosened. She finished in eighth place, but famous NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt said the second place was the first loser. Nancy won a silver medal, so she is technically not a loser. She even said she has a life to live and does not dwell on the attack, so it seems she is at peace. Tonya, otherwise, life revolves around the famous episode. Because of her crime and aggression, Tonya was invited to become a boxer. A film was made but was not very successful at the box office. Peace and integrity are godly behaviors and emotions. Being Christian and having good sportsmanship are the same in a way. Treat others as you wish to be treated and be loving. A person we compete with in sports is not our enemy. Another person we see in our walk of life is not our enemy. We only make enemies when we attack another as if we hate them. Brothers and sisters, there is no love or peace in attacking or hating anyone. Love the Lord and love others, and you will have gospel peace. God bless you, and the Lord loves you, and so do I: his bondservant, Samuel Jerry Head.