CANARY ISLANDS OF SPAIN — Athletes eyed each other as the loudspeaker announced the 400-meter race up next. Javier had heard that three competitors were from the U.S., so he moved to warm up near them and listen to their English. Maybe if he was lucky, he could even meet his first American.

Crossworld worker Chris gave Javier a pat on the back after he crossed the finish line.

“Well done!” Chris said. “Would you like a picture with the winner? He’s a friend of mine visiting from America.”

Javier nodded, still trying to catch his breath.

“Javier, this is my friend Justin.” Chris introduced the two athletes, and they exchanged contact info to connect again.

That afternoon, Chris texted Javier the photo of him and Justin.

Chris: Justin and his friends are speaking at our church tonight if you would like to come.

Javier: I don’t know where it is, but I’ll get ready and come.

Javier: Why do you want me to come see them? : )

Chris: Haha, they are going to talk about how God helps them be good athletes. It will be in English and translated into Spanish.

Javier: I’m already walking to the train stop.

Chris waited outside the church until he saw the silhouette of a figure running down the steep street.

“Do you even know how to walk?” Chris teased Javier as he approached the church.

They entered the church and sat near the back to listen to the stories of the American athletes. Most of them had medaled in the races that morning, but now they shared how life hadn’t been easy.

“We’re far from perfect,” Justin said, weaving the gospel into his testimony. “We come from messed-up families, we deal with our own struggles, and we face life’s problems just like everyone. But in all that, we’ve learned to trust God, both in sports and in life.”

Javier leaned over to Chris and whispered, “I’ve never been in a church like this. I’ve rarely been in any church for that matter.”

After the program, Javier went to greet Justin and his friends.

“Is there anything else you want to ask him?” Chris asked Javier, translating much of his conversation with Justin.

“Yes! Tell him I want what he has!”

That night Javier, Chris, Justin and his friends celebrated the race, the team and most importantly, Javier’s new life in Christ.

When God calls people to Himself, sometimes all we need to be is available. Are you looking to be part of what God is doing around you?

Italicized names were changed to protect identities.