"When I run I feel His pleasure"

Chariots of Fire has finally made it to Blu-ray, and so I watched it again. Although it won its Oscar as long ago as 1981 it holds up very well, and the DVD is gorgeous. Something I learned from the extras was that Ian Charleson, the actor who plays Eric Liddell in the film, died 22 years ago, only 40. He was remarkably good in the role — he seemed natural, genuine, and, from all accounts, a good portrayal of the actual man.

As the 2012 Olympics approach, the film has been re-released in London: "Chariots of Fire recapturing British imagination":

...[F]or many Christians, the movie’s enduring appeal comes at least partly because of its sincere and sympathetic depiction of a believer who sacrificed for his theological convictions, despite severe criticism.

Perhaps more importantly, Liddell provided a model for understanding how to be “in the world, but not of it.” He believed that his service to God included being a missionary and an athlete, and that he must be faithful in both roles. As his character famously said, “I believe God made me for a purpose. But He also made me fast, and when I run I feel His pleasure.”

WORLDmag.com | Chariots of Fire recapturing British imagination | Les Sillars