Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble. (2 Peter 1:10)
Born in Africa in 1940, world-class runner Kipchoge Keino was a legend, earning world records and two Olympic gold medals. He was registered for three races in the 1968 Olympics, but doctors forbade him to run due to gallstones. One hour before the 1,500-meter event, he decided to compete anyway. His bus to the stadium, stuck in traffic, would have made him late, so Keino decided to run the two miles to the stadium, then competed in the race. He won the event more than twenty meters ahead of the reigning champ, Jim Ryun.
Believers have a calling, a promise from God—participation in the divine nature and an eternal escape from the corruption of the world. We have been given faith, the character qualities of Christ, and everything we need to confirm our calling. We are called first to relationship with God, then to use our gifts fully. Whether we preach, teach, parent, serve at our workplace, help the poor, or nurse the sick, we ought to do it from a heart that is willing to surrender.
Our goal is perfectly summed up in John 17:4: “I have brought you glory on earth by finishing the work you gave me to do.” Kip Keino, after he retired from competition, helped orphans, created schools, and worked with Olympic athletes in Africa. Let us respond as he did.
In all you do, answer the call.
Susan Gordon lives in Wadsworth, Ohio, where she enjoys biking, walking, serving as a County Parks volunteer, and making memories with her husband, children, and grandchildren.
© 2023 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
