Eric Liddell, an Olympic athlete was made famous through the movie “Chariots of Fire” about his unwillingness to run on Sundays, where he won a gold medal. But Eric’s Olympic post-life is the real story! After the Olympics, Liddell returned to China to work as a missionary and was asked to work as a village evangelist in Siao Chang. This was a dangerous area. His job in the area was evangelism and to encourage the Christians already there.
Japan invaded China in 1940 but Liddell stayed behind to continue working. He was sent to an Internment Camp where 1800 other internees were confined. He was not dissuaded by his circumstances. He worked tirelessly; doing Bible studies, teaching children and organizing sports. In a prisoner exchange bargain, his freedom was arranged by Winston Churchill, but he gave it up and let a pregnant woman leave instead.
On February 21, 1945, Eric Liddell died, effectively finishing his race and was ushered into God’s presence. This man was truly committed to the cause of Christ. He had the opportunity to leave China but chose to stay. He poured his life into reaching the lost in China. He set himself aside and labored tirelessly for a prize that was far beyond Olympic gold; the salvation of souls for Christ! ~Adapted from Historymakers.info
In John 4:35 Jesus said; “…open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” May we too say; here am I Lord, send me!
Pastor Sandy