Let your joy inspire people

“Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!” Psalm 100:2 ESV

On August 8, Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge, a fan-favorite of many around the world because of his constant joy and infectious smile, went down as the the greatest marathon runner in history and one of the greatest Olympians of all time by winning the Men’s Marathon in Sapporo, Japan. In a move that spectators have learned to expect, he began to smile as marathon-mad Japanese fans, who defied Olympic organizers request to stay away due to COVID-19, lined up the streets of Sapporo and cheered him on to the finish line. “That smile is the happiness,” he said. “I have fulfilled the legacy by winning the marathon for the second time, back-to-back. I hope now to inspire the next generation." Asked in July whether this race would be his last, Eliud said, “The end of my career will come automatically that’s for sure, that’s in front of my mind, but for now I want to compete more. I still want to go around the world and run, inspire people.” 

And you know, I have no doubt that Kipchoge has inspired hundreds and maybe even thousands of people around the world to run. The joy he exhibits while training and competing makes what he does appear to be fun and effortless (although every long-time runner knows that it’s not always fun or effortless) which inspires those watching to follow his example. But that’s what gladness and joy do; they influence and motivate others to share in the activity that exudes such positive emotions. Which is one of the main reasons you and I should always strive to “serve the Lord with gladness.” Especially when that service might be hard, unpleasant or even dangerous. You see, people are always watching us—even more so when times get tough, times like now—and when we serve the Lord with cheerfulness, pleasure, willingness and joy, we will inspire them to do the same. 

So knowing that our greatest mission is to lead others to Christ, let us “serve the Lord with gladness” and “come into his presence with singing!” This will not only inspire the lost to seek the One who fills us with this great joy but will inspire our brothers and sisters to smile and serve with gladness too... which will in turn influence countless others to do the same. How’s that for an ultimate win? 

Heavenly Father, thank You for your Word that tells us how we are to live and work. Help us to always serve You with gladness, especially when the Christian race gets hard, so that others would be inspired to join us in the race to the ultimate finish line. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!