“SHAUN WHITE. NUFF SAID”

Neal Pollard

That was Phillip Woolley’s Facebook status last night at 9:39 PM. I knew what he meant because I was watching the Olympics. The incredible thing is that Phillip posted it after White had completed his first halfpipe performance in which judges awarded him a score of 46.8 out of 50. By the time the other 11 boarders had finished their second run, White’s gold medal was secure. He had no reason to do a second run. He had no reason except something called a “Double McTwist 1260,” a White creation. He was seen conferring with coaches about whether or not he should go back out there, and in the end he did. Risking nothing but his health, White hit the halfpipe. The last move at the end of the run was an attempt at that signature, never-before-executed (in formal competition) move. When he came down intact and slid out of the culvert, he was the undisputed king of his sport. Judges agreed, giving him a nearly perfect score of 48.4.

What motivates you? Certainly, some are moved by fame and glory. Others simply have a tangible, challenging goal and they drive themselves relentlessly toward its realization. But it is uncommon for someone who has nothing to prove to pursue the goal of getting closer to perfection.

The church is blessed with some high-achieving people, five talent men and women who have done much in evangelism, edification, giving, missions, and service to help the church grow in strength and number. In the last 50 to 100 years, brethren have achieved great heights in preaching, Christian education, soul-winning, media outreach, and much more. It is thrilling to be part of a divine organization on earth ever reaching toward new heights. What will motivate us to do more and greater things? Let it be a desire to move toward perfection and maturity (Heb. 6:1). Let it be a drive for growth in every good way (2 Pet. 3:18; Eph. 4:15; Col. 2:19; etc.). Let it be a dissatisfaction with anything less than our best (Col. 3:23). We are not after fame and glory on this earth. We are after the crown of life (Jas. 1:12; Rev. 2:10). Christian living. Nuff said!