Beijing 2008

I haven't watched as much of the Olympics this summer as I have in past years but I have watched a little. As a citizen of the United States I've had the opportunity to root for Michael Phelps in his run towards the history books, watch the men's basketball team attempt to reestablish our reputation as a power-house on the court and last night I witnessed little Shawn Johnson perform an almost perfect gold medal performance on the balance beam. I love being an American and I'm thankful for all privileges that being an American affords. What I was again reminded of last night was the grand international stage that the Olymipics always brings into view. I love seeing the athletes from different nations congratulate each other and communicate good will and fair competition on such a public stage. So many countries, so many languages, so many colors and cultures - One God, creator of all. It caused me to reflect on the fact that God does not prefer Americans over people from other nations. We are not special to God because we're Americans. Most American Christians would agree with that statement but few of us live that way. It's almost like we think that as Americans we get to fly first class on God's airline and everyone else is flying coach. We feel a sense of intitlement to the first portion of God's blessings. We would do well to see the world like God sees it. God values all of humanity and they are for whom Christ died. Regardless of the colors on the flag or the language spoken, God loves people and we have been called to do the same.