The Making of a Champion
Eric Liddell, born in Tianjin, China on January 16, 1902, was destined for greatness on both the athletic field and the mission field. Raised by Scottish missionary parents, he displayed remarkable athletic talent early on, excelling in rugby and running. By the time he reached the University of Edinburgh in 1920, he was Scotland's fastest runner. Yet, his heart was equally committed to his faith, often sharing his simple yet profound belief in Jesus with large audiences.
The Olympic Test of Conviction
In 1924, Eric faced a test of his values at the Paris Olympics. A favorite for the 100-meter race, he learned the heats were scheduled for a Sunday. His conviction to honor the Sabbath led him to withdraw, facing public backlash and being labeled a 'traitor'. Undeterred, Eric focused on the 400-meter race, a distance he was less prepared for. Before the race, he received a note with the words from 1 Samuel 2:30: "Those who honor me I will honor." Eric ran the race in an unconventional style, sprinting from the start, and won gold with a record time of 47.6 seconds. Reflecting on his victory, Eric said, "God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure."
Return to China
After his Olympic success, Eric returned to China in 1925 as a missionary, teaching and spreading the message of Jesus. Despite the onset of war, he chose to remain and serve, even when it meant being separated from his family.
A Beacon in the Darkness
During his internment in the Weihsien Camp by the Japanese in 1943, Eric became a beacon of hope and leadership. Sacrificing his chance to leave the camp through a prisoner exchange, he let a pregnant woman go instead. Langdon Gilkey, a fellow internee, remarked on Eric's saintly nature, saying, "He was overflowing with good humor and love for life."
Eric Liddell died on February 21, 1945, from a brain tumor, his life marked by selfless service and unwavering faith. He once stated, "Each one of us is in a greater race than any I have run in Paris, and this race ends when God gives out the medals." His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us that true victory lies in living a life that honors God.
