Now is the time for sporting achievement

Now is the time (to the tune ‘Bunessan’)

Now is the time for sporting achievement,
Striving to win, contesting a game.
Each person giving all they can offer –
winning or losing – fanning the flame.

Cycling or swimming, throwing or diving,
all these are skills which come from our God.
Reaching for limits, playing games fairly,
all goes to make for our common good.

We simply marvel at the achievements.
How can a strong man lift such a weight?
How can a rower move through the water,
with strength and power, at such a rate?

How can a gymnast show off her routine
with poise and balance, landing with grace?
How can tri-athletes keep themselves going,
how can long distance runners keep pace?

Life seems to be like a competition:
Striving to win, contesting a game.
What really matters – winning or losing –
God loves each one and loves each the same.