WITH the extensive television coverage it would have been difficult not to have seen some of the World Athletic championships which concluded last Sunday.

We will all have marvelled not only at the performances this past week but also the revelation of the cost to the competitor; the agony during and after the event, the early rising, daily routines, the pain of training, the self-discipline.

In ancient times, the victors would have received a crown of olive or laurel leaves in recognition of their efforts rather than medals.

It might seem ridiculous to us now that after all the blood, sweat and tears of training and the effort of competing, the prize at those ancient games should be a crown of leaves.

When Jesus called his first disciples, they discovered that discipleship involved discipline. The standard Christ set was high, daunting many a would-be follower.

When he challenged them, they responded; they glimpsed in his life a goal worth every sacrifice they might be called to make. Perhaps they did not realize all that was involved in the call to carry a cross but after the triumph of Calvary they were inspired.

St Paul, writing to the early church at Corinth, likened Christian discipleship to a race. He reminded them that everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training, but only one can win the prize. “They do it to win a fading garland; we to win a garland that never fades.” This is the reward that Jesus has in store for not only for those who finish first, but for everyone who crosses the finish line faithfully; an eternal crown, that will never lose its value or its glory.

Revd. David Williams

Romsey Abbey