WAS IT WORTH? by Diane Check

As I watched the XX Winter Olympics, I couldn't help but wonder about some of the athletes and the pain and suffering they have endured over the years. Most longed just to have one slight chance to stand upon a podium surrounded by others like them, adorned with a precious medal and having the world proclaim that they are "Number One!"

I think of the many snowboarders, skiers, ice skaters and lugers and the interviews conducted with each of them. A typical competitor might reveal that they've had several broken bones, nine surgeries, two concussions and a whole lot of "minor" injuries over the years of hard work, training and competing. For many, these injuries have been enormous and the physical pain and rehabilitation necessary to come back and perform again, almost inconceivable.

Why would these athletes risk their lives, in some respect, just for a split second where they can step into the spotlight of glory? Is it really worth it? As I thought about this question, I remembered recently watching a snowboard cross race where American Seth Wescott gritted out a dramatic finish and won by the nose of his board. When the mile-long smile crossed his beaming face and he lifted an American flag high above his head, in that very special moment, he knew he was the best. All of the endless hours of preparation, the brokenness of his body, and the hurt from critical words of those who criticized him, led up to that moment in the sun. And, YES, it was worth it.

Now, think back more than two thousand years ago to a lonely cross on a hill called Golgotha. It wasn't an athlete that day, but a sinless and perfect man whose body was being beaten beyond recognition. His beard was savagely pulled out of His face and the pain from the nine-inch nails being slammed into His wrists musthave been unbearable. Many surrounded Him and called Him terrible, degrading and unspeakable names. He was "adorned" with a disfiguring crown of thorns as they continued to hurl insult after insult at Him. He courageously endured the pain and the suffering intended for Him before the beginning of time.

As He fought to breathe His last breath and felt the fading sunshine against His brow, He called out to His Father in heaven and said "It is Finished." Then, His loving Father, as He looked into the eyes of the many souls that would be saved, and with tears streaming down His Holy face agreed, "yes, my beloved Son, it is finished."

And, at that moment in time, we now know that Jesus did what He had to do because WE were worth it! And, that very special "We" includes You!