On whom did the Spirit shine his torch and why?
Answers
Olympic torch is a traditional and worthy symbol of the Olympic Games, whose purpose is to encourage harmony among nations and their peoples, and by its very shining light to brighten and kindle the hope that the spirit of excellence being pursued by the participating athletes will illumine the hearts of the world's people. But there is a light of even greater value to mankind and the world, and one that is always available.
The Psalmist sang, ''Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.'' n1 This is the light of Spirit, God, and of His Christ, the saving Truth. It's a light that doesn't just appear briefly in four-year cycles but that always casts its rays upon the lives of men and women to benefit and better them.
n1 Psalms 119:105.
The light of a torch radiates outward and dissipates darkness. This symbol of the Olympic Games and the purpose of them can be a reminder to the world of its need to reach outward in further effort to advance humanity's goals. Much effort by nations and peoples is being expended in this direction. There are efforts to combat terrorism, to improve the environment, to preserve human rights, to eliminate starvation and oppression, to reduce the danger of nuclear destruction. These efforts to improve the lot of humanity are worthwhile and necessary. But there is a higher reach and broader effort that alone can assure this attainment.
The Bible records the efforts of many people dedicated to bettering human life. Moses led the Hebrews out of Egyptian bondage. David made of one nation all the tribes of Israel. Nehemiah rebuilt the broken wall of Jerusalem. These and others sought to improve their peoples' lot - but on a spiritual basis, through trust in the one God. Now as then there continues the need to develop and experience more of humanity's potential. Yet the key to this attainment is a perception of God.