Attracting people to Jesus through sports
By Albert Martens
Athletes in Action, Manitoba
Helping people come closer to Jesus is what I want to do; whether it is running in the Berlin Marathon (or any other marathon) or just conversing about running (shop-talk), I want my interactions with people to lead to spiritual questions.
Runners wave cheerfully during the Polar Bear Marathon near Churchill, Man. (Photo supplied)
It is so neat to see the Lord bring people into my life through sports, where I can share my faith in him. I feel a sense of responsibility and a privilege to share God’s love with others. Friendships begin and continue for many years. God created everyone; he loves them and wants them to come to know him. In a friendship, I earn the right to share the good news that brings them closer to God. I may be nervous at first, but I allow the Holy Spirit to direct me. I soon discover that everyone has needs and wants to talk. People are searching for purpose in their lives.
I am excited to be involved in many people’s lives, especially spiritually. I was recently asked to give an interview about how my endurance running is related to my faith. I was not given the questions ahead of time, but so often when I have been interviewed, I realize the Lord gives me the right words to say. It was an interview with my Indigenous friend about running and helping people overcome addictions.
I am currently praying for a friend stuck at Base Camp, waiting to cross the Khumbu Falls to reach Mount Everest. The huge ice pieces are too unstable for them to cross with the “Jesus” ladders. He tells me he is religious and how much he values my prayers during this time.
Years ago, I ran across Germany. The day I seriously injured my foot near Koblenz, I happened to be billeted with a couple who owned a physiotherapy clinic. They helped me. I found out recently that the couple is separated, and I feel called to mentor and help them.
The Polar Bear Marathon (PBM) is a unique setting where we meet runners from all over the world and bring the good news each year during a banquet. Over 200 runners have participated in the PBM over the 14 years it has existed. Last year, a fine Indigenous Christ-follower gave his testimony. The person who spoke after him was so emotionally impacted that he could not talk. Currently, we have 20-plus runners applying to the PBM from Australia, Italy, various states and provinces, and local runners. It is exciting to present these runners with God’s love.
A large part of drawing people to God is achieved by reflecting his love, grace, and character through my life before words are spoken. Demonstrating genuine compassion, living authentically in faith, building trusting relationships, and praying for the Holy Spirit to work can create a curiosity in others for a relationship with him. It reminds me of James 4:8, “Come near to God and he will come near to you,” and Jeremiah 29:13, “You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” These Scriptures encourage building a relationship through devotion, trust, and obedience.
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