Many times, I cheat when I watch competitive events. I watch replays so I don’t have to worry about the outcome. I can’t handle adrenaline anymore.
My favorite 2020 Olympic moment to rewatch is the second and third-place battles in the men’s marathon. Seconds before second place is claimed, third-place Dutch racer Nageeye closes in on second-place opponent Cherono. Nageeye immediately turns to fourth-place Belgium training mate Abdi and says,
Come with me.
Nageeye follows his command with hand gestures. Abdi hesitates. Nageeye keeps turning back and gesturing to Abdi until both sprint past Cherono. The friends claim silver and bronze. One commentator said it was as if Nageeye willed Abdi over the finish line.
What good is a podium spot at the Olympics if your friend isn’t standing with you?
Nageeye and Abdi came to mind as I read Olympian marathoner Deena Kastor’s memoirs. She said, “Come with me,” as she encouraged teammates during training or competitors during competitions.
The Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” And let the one who hears say, “Come.” And let the one who is thirsty come; let the one who desires take the water of life without price. Revelation 22:17 (ESV)
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