Formed by the Game: 30 Days of Seeing God in the Liturgies of SportSample

The Trophy

Trophies are the visible symbols of victory. Athletes lift them high, fans cheer, and entire seasons are remembered by the hardware won. In the liturgy of sport, trophies represent achievement, recognition, and legacy. They remind us of the sacrifice, effort, and discipline poured into the pursuit of excellence. Yet as time passes, trophies collect dust, records fade, and accomplishments are surpassed. What once seemed ultimate loses its shine.

Paul draws a sharp contrast: “Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.” The earthly symbols of victory—medals, awards, championships—are temporary. They point to something deeper but cannot satisfy the longing in our souls. The liturgy of lifting a trophy is powerful, but it also exposes our need for a greater reward—one that does not tarnish or pass away.

Think about how much effort goes into winning a trophy: long hours of training, countless sacrifices, and perseverance through setbacks. Paul isn’t dismissing that effort; he’s redirecting it. If athletes can give their all for a prize that fades, how much more should we give ourselves fully to the pursuit of Christ, whose reward is eternal? The “crown” God promises is not made of metal or jewels but of His presence, His affirmation, and life with Him forever.

This is the redemptive flip of the trophy. Rather than seeing it as the end goal, we can see it as a pointer to the true prize: faithfulness to Christ. Every lift of a championship trophy is a rehearsal for the day when believers will cast their crowns before the throne of Jesus (Revelation 4:10–11), acknowledging that He alone is worthy of ultimate glory.

Next time you see a trophy ceremony or hold one yourself, let it point your heart toward something greater. Trophies fade, but the reward of a faithful life in Christ endures forever. Train with eternity in view, striving not for temporary recognition but for God’s eternal “Well done.”

Prayer:
“Father, thank You for the rewards and recognition that come through sport. Help me not to place my identity in trophies or achievements but in the eternal reward You promise. Shape my ambition to seek what truly lasts. Amen.”