As the 2024 Paris Olympics draw to a close, we at Highlands Fellowship are reminded that true victories often extend beyond medals and podiums. Among the athletes who competed on the world stage, Pastor David Cheromei, a dedicated runner from Kenya and a soon-to-be graduate of our 4G3 Discipleship Institute, has demonstrated that faith and perseverance can achieve far more than any race could offer.
David’s journey began long before he set foot in Paris. Training at the high altitudes of Kenya, ~8000 feet above sea level, every breath he took was a testament to his determination and resilience. Yet, his preparation was not just for the physical race, but for a spiritual mission—one that would unfold in the heart of the Olympic Games.
The competition in Paris was not without its own dramatic turns. Kenya's journey at the Olympics saw a thrilling moment when athlete Kipyegon, initially disqualified for obstruction, was reinstated and went on to win a silver medal in the 5000 meters. But as the world’s eyes were fixed on the track, something even more profound was taking place behind the scenes.
Pastor David Cheromei was in Paris not just as an athlete, but as a messenger of the Gospel. Amidst the excitement and pressure of the Olympics, David was sharing the Good News, evangelizing, and winning souls for Christ right there in the midst of the world’s greatest sporting event. His mission was clear—to be salt and light, living out Jesus’ teachings in a place where few might expect to encounter the love of Christ.
Jesus calls us in Matthew 5:16 to “let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” David embodied this call, stepping out of his comfort zone, or as we like to say, out of his ‘salt shaker,’ to become a friend to those who may have never known the love of God. This is what it means to Love God, Love People—to be the hands and feet of Jesus, wherever He leads us.
David’s work is a powerful example of how we live out our mission at Highlands Fellowship: to help people experience life with Jesus. Through our vision to see the transformation of people and places through Jesus, we are witnessing the incredible impact that one person’s faith can have on the world. David’s evangelism at the Olympics is creating a ripple effect that will be felt far beyond Paris, touching lives around the globe and bringing glory to God.
At Highlands Fellowship, we train leaders like David through our 4G3 Discipleship Institute—an initiative dedicated to equipping believers For the Global Glory of God. These leaders are not only strong in their faith but are also prepared to share that faith with others, no matter where they are called to serve.
Together, we are making this mission possible. Whether through prayers or contributions, you can play a vital role in bringing hope and transformation to persecuted Christians and empowering leaders like David to stand firm in their faith, even in the most challenging circumstances.
As we reflect on the 2024 Paris Olympics, let us also remember the spiritual victories that were won. We invite you to continue to Pray, Invest, and GO—to be part of this mission in whatever way God is calling you. Together, we are making a difference—one soul at a time.
So, let’s BE THE CHURCH! Let’s step out in faith, like Pastor David Cheromei, and live out the calling to be salt and light in a world that desperately needs the love of Christ.
