Though there was much about the Olympics in Paris that broke the Father’s heart, His witness went forth through the many Christian athletes. Many astonished the world by breaking the world record in women’s 400m hurdles (she made it look easy!). At the press conference following her astonishing run, an NPR reporter asked her about her faith. Her response has gone viral, for good reason. Her description of the role of faith and Jesus in her life is a model for every believer.

Ogunleye’s second attempt was a personal best for an indoor throw. Then, it was neck and neck with New Zealand’s Maddison-Lee Wesche. Both women threw personal bests, but Ogunleye was further at 20.oom, which was her goal. After she threw, she dropped to her knees in prayer when she saw the distance she had achieved. God Calls Missionary to Olympics In the video I mentioned Olympic rower, Emily Froehlich. She sensed the Lord calling her to lay down athletics and become a missionary. She turned down a spot on the U.S. national team to do so. But while she was serving the Lord in the Middle East she had a vision. She said: “In the vision He showed how there’s no other event where the nations come like the Olympics.”

She said, “It takes more than one person to represent God in all the arenas and reach all the people.” She pointed out that while she has access to Team USA rowers, everyone can reach those around them.

Her strategy is to build relationships with her teammates, working hard as an athlete, establishing trust and respect. But she said: The secret is that you pray about it. I pray for specific people that God has given me favor in their life, friendship in their life. And I cannot explain the rest. God always opens a door. And they ask questions or they get vulnerable. If someone gives me just one centimeter then I just share everything: Share the Gospel, share my testimony, and offer to pray.

Heavenly Father, May every athlete who bears Your beautiful name have courage to bear witness to what You’re doing in their lives. As they prepare for the next competitions, may they never get too busy to spend time in Your Word. Give them backbones of steel, to speak Your truths into a world ready to silence and reject them. We also pray for the Christian athletes gearing up for the Paralympics beginning August 28. Anoint them to shine brightly to those around them. May they be a picture of what You can do through a broken person in a fallen world. May Your name be forever praised. Let it be so!