Broken Hallelujahs and Bronze Medals

You probably remember the opening lyric of the song "Hallelujah" written by Leonard Cohen but made famous by Jeff Buckley and Shrek:

"Well I've heard there was a secret chord that David played and it pleased the Lord..."

Well, Mr. Cohen, Mr. Buckley and Mr. Shrek, maybe it wasn't just one chord but all of them. Bear with me here.

In the 1980's biopic film "Chariots of Fire" Scottish Olympic Gold medalist, Eric Liddel says to his sister, "God made me for a purpose...but he also made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure."

 

If you don't remember the movie, you probably remember the theme.

There's a lot of truth in that line. The first time I caught a fly ball playing centerfield, I thrusted both arms into the air in celebration and immediately looked for my dad in the stands. He was smiling. Can you recall a moment from your childhood like that? Do you remember how it felt?

We all have our own talents or gifts and whether yours is noticeable like writing music like Leonard Cohen and running fast like Eric Liddel or something less noticeable (but perhaps more important) like being a good friend or helping people behind the scenes, the one who created you takes pleasure in seeing you use those gifts.

You aren't always going to be successful but the amazing thing is, effort counts. So whatever is you do, try your best at it and remember this: "Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." (James 1:17)

Even broken hallelujahs and bronze medals bring God pleasure.