PRINCIPLES AND VALUES
«And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or lands, for My name’s sake shall receive a hundredfold, and inherit eternal life (Matthew 19:29).
Eric Liddell was born in China in 1902 to Scottish missionaries. When he was only six years old, his parents sent him and his older brother to a Christian school in England where he soon stood out as an athlete. He was known as «The fastest young man in Scotland» and later as «the flying Scotsman.» In 1923, he broke the British records for 100 and 200 meters. In 1924, he participated in the Summer Olympics in Paris and won the gold medal in the 400-meter race and the bronze medal in the 200-meter race. His life inspired Chariots of Fire, the famous film directed by Hugh Hudson, which won four Academy Awards in 1981. More impressive than his achievements was the life of sacrifice and resignation that Eric chose in order to spread the gospel in China. Abandoning the laurels of sports and a promising career, he went back to work as a missionary and teacher at an Anglo-Chinese College. The beginning of the civil war found him there, and he was transferred to a prisoners’ camp where he found a new place to preach. But the harsh conditions of the camp weakened his health to such extent that after a couple years, he died without medical assistance. In 2008, on the occasion of the Beijing Olympic Games, the Chinese Government revealed that Eric Liddell had had the opportunity to be released from prison, thanks to an agreement with the British government, however, he gave it up so a pregnant woman could go free.
The spirit of resignation demonstrated in Eric Liddell’s life is considered a sign of true greatness before God. Selfless participation in service, setting aside fame, wealth, or freedom proved the highest level of nobility that a human being can attain. John the Baptist went through similar conditions when, renouncing his popularity and preaching the gospel, he proved to be loyal to God even in prison. That’s why Jesus said, «among those born of women there is not . . . greater» (Luke 7:28) than John the Baptist.
The influence of such a life extends to our days; transcending time. The principles of surrender and sacrifice that are so opposed to our current lifestyle are more valid today than ever before. They shine among the disciples of God to whom He offers this wonderful promise: they will receive a hundred times more and will inherit eternal life.
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Taken from: Daily Devotions for Adults 2020
“A Cheerful Heart Is Good Medicine”
From: Julian Melgoza-Laura Fidanza
Colaboradores:Ricardo Vela & Alejandra Zavala
