1 Corinthians 15:36

John Brzenk (icon of the documentary Pulling John) became the world arm wrestling champion in 1983 and didn't lose an arm wrestling match for the next twenty-five years. Pulling John follows his decision about whether or not to retire as he approaches the age forty. The main story line of the film, though, is the collision course of Alexey Voyevoda (a demure Russian giant) and Travis Bagent (a bombastic American braggart), two young challengers to Brzenk's throne. Both men revere Brzenk and understand that they must each go through the other to get to Brzenk's level.

At the world championships in 2003, Voyevoda and Bagent met in the super heavyweight final. In a huge upset, Bagent soundly defeated the heavily favored Voyevoda. If you're familiar with stories like this, you know what happened next. Bagent got even cockier, while Voyevoda went back to Russia to work out. It's during these Russian post-loss scenes that Voyevoda discusses losing, what it means to him, and how acceptance of the loss can bring greater strength. At a critical point, one of his coaches says, "If you're strong, losing can make you stronger."

It is only from deaths that new lives are born. Voyevoda begins to know himself as someone who can lose, and, through that knowledge, gain strength. When he meets Bagent again, with the winner to face Brzenk, it's not close.

Martin Luther said that the cross was the end of us. Losing to Bagent was the end of the invincible Alexy Voyevoda. A new life was created. It was this new creation that dominated Bagent and moved on to face Brzenk.

It is when we are shown our need, which happens exclusively against our will, that we reach out for a Savior. Let us recognize that need today.

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