Made Fast by God
Eric Liddell, born on January 16, 1902, in Tianjin, China, was known for his remarkable speed. But it was his faith that truly defined his life. As he famously stated, 'God made me fast. And when I run, I feel His pleasure.'
A Test of Conviction
This conviction was put to the test during the 1924 Paris Olympics. Eric, a devout Christian, discovered that the heats for his favored 100m race were scheduled on a Sunday. Choosing to honor his beliefs, he refused to compete that day. Instead, he ran in the 400m, a race he had not trained for, and won gold, setting a world record. Before the race, he received a note with a verse from 1 Samuel 2:30: 'Those who honor me I will honor.' Eric's triumph was seen as a testament to his faith.
Return to China
Following his Olympic success, Eric turned to missionary work in China. He returned there in 1925, dedicating his life to teaching and sharing his faith. In 1943, during World War II, he was interned by the Japanese in Weihsien Camp. Even in captivity, he selflessly served others, organizing activities and offering spiritual support. Fellow internee Langdon Gilkey described him as a beacon of hope amid despair.
Complete Surrender
Eric's journey concluded in 1945 when he succumbed to a brain tumor in the camp. His final words, 'It's complete surrender,' encapsulated his life of devotion. Eric Liddell's story is a vivid demonstration of how Jesus guided and transformed his life. His legacy continues to inspire, reminding us of the power of faith and the impact of living for something greater than oneself.
