People of Courage: Eric Moussambani

At the 2000 Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia, one young athlete inspired the hearts of millions through his valiant effort. Eric Moussambani had qualified for the men’s 100-meter freestyle swimming event through the Olympic committee’s program for developing countries

His tiny African nation of Equatorial Guinea, boasting only two swimming pools in the entire country, had sent Eric to compete. But he had just learned to swim six months prior to his arrival in Sydney – and had never swum two lengths of the swimming pool!

Extremely nervous, he lined up with two other competitors in his heat. However, the other two swimmers soon disqualified themselves due to false starts, leaving Eric to swim alone in his event.

Many things could have prevented him from competing that day. He could have resigned himself to the idea that no one from his country belonged in an Olympic swimming event anyway. He could have focused on how difficult it would be for him to swim at all, especially by himself. Instead, he bravely dove into the water and started his event.

At first, the crowd didn’t know what to think about a man who could barely swim competing at an Olympic level in an event all by himself. Soon however, his champion’s heart won them over. As he struggled to the end of the pool, the spectators rose to their feet with excitement. His time in the event no longer mattered. He had finished strong. He had done his best.

Eric Moussambani is a person of courage. When Eric and his two competitors stood on the starting blocks, the hurdles must’ve seemed overwhelming. Yet despite many barriers, he accomplished his mission . Consider how his obstacles are similar to ones you may face.

First, he came from a background that hadn’t prepared him for the challenges he faced. He didn’t have the proper training, experience, or credibility to tackle his assigned task. Yet those limitations didn’t deter him from pressing on. Next, he could lose the race. The competition was far better prepared for the task at hand. Third, he could be humiliated, not only in front of the crowd, but before the entire world. Finally, there was the very real possibility that he might be injured – or even die in the attempt. Yet those fears didn’t keep him from pressing on.

There must’ve been a debate inside Eric. One voice warned, “Eric, you’re crazy. This is an impossible task and you’ll surely fail. Give it up before it’s too late.” But another voice – a stronger one – replied, “Eric, you can do this! It’ll be tough, but that’s why you’re here. Summon your courage and do what you’ve been asked to do.” Despite his lingering doubts, uncertainty, and confusion, Eric pressed on.

You may face some or all of the same obstacles in undertaking the work God gave you to do. Perhaps you lack the training or resources to be successful. Or you’re afraid of the risks involved in taking on your mission. Finally, your doubts may tell you that your situation is impossible so back out while there’s still time.

Remember Eric Moussambani. He overcame the impossible by conquering his doubts and fears. You also can – not by trying hard, but by having faith that God will provide whatever you need at the very moment you need it.

Paul wrote in Philippians 3:14, “I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” When the task seems impossible, when failure seems likely, when all else fails – PRESS ON!

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