February 6, 2026
I can’t lie, tonight as I type this, we’ve tuned in to the opening ceremonies of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. There’s something special—at least there’s supposed to be—about the Olympics. Italy seems to have remembered that (whereas the Parisians two years ago… well, let’s just say they forgot).
And yah, they nailed it with their theme: “Armonia” (Harmony).
I was particularly moved by one moment in the ceremony—aerialists suspended in the air, framed by massive glowing rings, holding onto nothing but each other. It was a stunning picture of what this is all about. While competition is at the heart of the Olympics, the coming together of nations is based on the notion that, for a time, we can put aside our differences and celebrate our shared humanity.
For the three hours the ceremonies are being televised, my wife and I—and actually, our daughter Emmie, who is living in South Korea—are watching this celebration together. (As I’m typing this at 8:20 PM here, it’s late Saturday morning in South Korea, and Emmie is watching with us through her VPN. How fun is that?)
And hey, just as I typed this, the South Korean team walked into the stadium! That country is a force to be reckoned with in short-track speed skating. While I’m ‘Merica through-and-through, go South Korea, too! Go Italy. Go Norway. Go Germany. Go Austria. Go everybody… well, maybe except Canada… Hahaha.
You get the point.
While we want our athletes to medal, we should cheer for them all, for they’ve earned the opportunity to represent their country and bring honor to their Creator. About living in harmony, the Apostle Paul wrote this:
“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
The ideal of living in harmony is something we should all strive for. For that reason, tonight I’m thankful for the Olympics, and especially the organizers of the Milan-Cortina opening ceremonies. They are reminding us of that high ideal the Lord would have us strive toward: holding onto one another in the light, rather than fighting in the dark.
Enjoy watching the games, everyone. I’ll catch you all tomorrow on the flip side, on Day #69.