In a world where we often feel the pressure to have everything figured out by a certain age, Kristen Faulkner’s story offers a refreshing reminder that life’s greatest journeys can unfold in the most unexpected ways.
Kristen grew up in the remote beauty of Alaska, a place known more for its majestic landscapes than its cycling prospects. From Alaska, she journeyed to Harvard, where she embraced the world of rowing, a sport that taught her discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. But even at Harvard, the idea of becoming an Olympian cyclist was far from her mind.
After graduation, Kristen followed a path that many would consider the epitome of success: she moved to New York City and began working at a venture capital firm. Her life seemed set on a course of professional achievement and stability. But sometimes, life’s greatest stories begin with the unexpected.
One day, Kristen decided to take a beginner's cycling class in Central Park. It was a simple decision, perhaps one made out of curiosity or a desire for a new challenge. But that small step was the beginning of a remarkable journey. What started as an early morning hobby quickly turned into a passion. Kristen found herself waking up at 5:00 am to cycle before work, and soon she was competing in local cycling tournaments.
It wasn’t long before Kristen made a bold decision: she quit her job, left behind the security of her career in venture capital, and moved to California to pursue cycling full-time. It was a leap of faith, a step into the unknown, driven by a sense of calling and purpose that defied conventional wisdom.
And then, just seven years after that first cycling class in Central Park, Kristen Faulkner found herself on the world’s biggest stage: the Olympic Games in Paris. In a stunning turn of events, she was added to the USA road cycling roster just one month before the Games. Against all odds, she went on to win gold in the women’s road race, the first American to do so in 40 years.
Kristen’s story is nothing short of inspiring. It reminds us that our lives can take unexpected turns that lead us to places we never imagined. And while Kristen may not be a professing Christian, her journey offers a powerful parallel to the way God often works in our lives.
God’s Unexpected Paths
The Bible is full of stories of people who were called to leave behind their comfort zones and follow God’s leading. One of the most striking examples is found in the life of Abraham. In Genesis 12:1, God calls Abraham to leave his country, his people, and his father’s household to go to a land that God would show him. Abraham had no idea where he was going or what lay ahead, but he chose to trust God’s promise. Hebrews 11:8 reflects on Abraham’s faith: “By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to go out to a place that he was to receive as an inheritance. And he went out, not knowing where he was going.”
Like Abraham, Kristen took a step into the unknown when she decided to pursue cycling full-time. She left behind a successful career to chase a dream that seemed far-fetched, much like how we, as believers, are often called to step out in faith, trusting that God’s plan is greater than our own understanding.
Trusting God’s Timing
Another key insight from Kristen’s story is the importance of timing. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that “For everything, there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” Kristen’s journey from a beginner’s cycling class to Olympic gold didn’t happen overnight. It was a process that unfolded over seven years, a journey that required patience, perseverance, and the ability to embrace each stage of the process.
In our own lives, we might feel frustrated when things don’t happen as quickly as we would like, or when our path seems uncertain. But just as Kristen’s journey took time, so too do God’s plans for our lives often unfold in His perfect timing. Isaiah 40:31 encourages us: “But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
The Power of Perseverance
Kristen’s journey is also a testament to the power of perseverance. The Apostle Paul, in Philippians 3:14, speaks of pressing “on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Paul’s words remind us that the Christian life is a race of endurance, where perseverance is key to reaching the prize that God has set before us.
Kristen’s determination to wake up early, train before work, and commit fully to her dream of cycling echoes this biblical call to perseverance. She pushed through the challenges, uncertainties, and setbacks to achieve something remarkable. Similarly, we are called to persevere in our faith, knowing that God is faithful and will reward those who diligently seek Him.
Embracing the Journey
Finally, Kristen’s story encourages us to embrace the journey, even when the destination is unclear. Proverbs 3:5-6 urges us to “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
As we navigate the twists and turns of life, we can take comfort in knowing that God is guiding our steps. Whether we are at the beginning of a new journey, in the middle of a challenging season, or nearing the finish line, we can trust that God is with us every step of the way.
Kristen Faulkner’s journey to Olympic gold is a powerful reminder that the path to greatness is often unexpected and full of surprises. While she may not profess faith in Christ, her story resonates with the timeless truths of Scripture that call us to trust God’s leading, embrace His timing, and persevere in the race of faith. As we reflect on her journey, let us be encouraged to follow wherever God leads, knowing that He can take our lives in directions we never imagined, leading us to places where we can accomplish things beyond our wildest dreams.
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