I hope you didn’t miss seeing Oscar Pistorius run in the London Olympic games. He is a world class athlete–and he is a double amputee. He also has a remarkable faith that carries him through life. He lives to glorify God: “God is the most important peson in the world to me. If I’m on the right patch spiritually, it helps with everything else.”

Oscar was born in 1986 without fibulae (the small bone below the knee) in his legs. Both legs were amputated below the knee when he was eleven months old. With his prosthetics, he played most of the sports of other South African boys: rugby, tennis, and wrestling. Once he started running, he has “never looked back.”

I watched in amazement and fascination as he competed in the 400 meter event–in my estimation, one of the most physically demanding races. He advanced all the way to the semi-finals before being eliminated. In the 4 by 400 relay, he ran the anchor leg for South Africa.

He is a truly amazing athlete and an amazing person. This is what he says: “you are not disabled by the disabilities you have. You are able by the abilities you have.” He also says: “I don’t see myself as disabled. I just don’t have lower legs.”

His faith is inspiring. Oscar grew up in a Christian home and accepted Christ as a boy.

He says he needs Christ in his life “Because he is the reason for my success and the one that takes me from strength to strength. Christ makes all the difference. He aids me in my struggles and makes my glories that much greater.”

What an example for all of us. Oscar Pistorius shows us we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. His life and accomplishments remind us we too can overcome those things which hinder us.

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