Trophies & Crowns

Well, as a friend stated on social media the other day, “Now that Team USA Soccer failed to capture a win against Belgium, we can all go back to the reality of everyday life – seeing that so few Americans have much interest in football/soccer anyhow.”

Since World Cup Soccer is still a bit relevant right now, did you know that the FIFA World Cup Trophy originally cost approximately $9,390 to manufacture when it was first created in 1974. When factoring in the design costs and initial competition fees, the total original production cost was around $50,000.

Also, World Cup soccer champions receive a record $50 million in prize money, gold-plated medals, and the iconic ⁠FIFA World Cup Trophy. While the original solid-gold trophy remains in Zurich, winners keep a gold-plated replica permanently. [1, 2, 3, 4]

Individual players are also rewarded with specific prestigious accolades for their tournament performances:

• ⁠Golden Ball: Awarded to the tournament’s best overall player.
• ⁠Golden Boot: Awarded to the tournament’s top goalscorer.
• ⁠Golden Glove: Awarded to the best goalkeeper.
• Young Player Award: Given to the best young player (21 or under).
• Fair Play Trophy: Awarded to the team with the best record of fair play.
  
  

Is there any spiritual metaphor found here?  Yes, In 1Corinthians 9, God reminds us through Paul,  I (Paul) do it all (carefully relate to others) for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings.  Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it.  Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath (crown), but we an imperishable (crown).” 1 Corinthians 9:23-25

May this Scriptural reminder help us to keep working faithfully for Christ even when we aren’t seeing “great wins”.  God sees your work and labor of love! (Hebrews 6:10) He doesn’t forget to reward the faithful.  His reward/crowns will be everlasting.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for the blessing and reward of eternal life found in trusting Christ, his sacrifice on the cross and resurrection.  Thank you for the promise of eternal recognition to those of us who stay faithful serving You.  Help us as we serve and may we not be afraid to step out courageously to give your Word to others.  In Jesus Name, Amen. – Pastor Larry