Ski Weltcup Kitzbühel

Dear Athletes,

The downhill race at the Hahnenkamm is the epitome of courage, trust, and dedication. Kitzbühel is not just a competition; it’s a stage where history is made.

Today, we want to reflect on how we can find new courage and lightness in such moments with God’s help—not just physically, but especially inwardly. God invites us to hand over our worries and fears to Him.

Bible Verse: 1 Peter 5:6-7
“Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that He may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on Him because He cares for you.”

This promise gives us strength: God sees you—not just as athletes but as people with all your struggles. He wants to strengthen you from within so that you can face your next challenge with a free heart.

For more details, watch the following video with the text Team Devotion…

Practical Exercise: Letting Go of Worries – Shedding the Burden

1. Materials Provided

Each of you will receive a piece of paper and a pen. We have also prepared a fire bowl.

2. Step 1 – Naming the Worries

Sit down comfortably, take a deep breath, and allow yourself a moment of silence. Ask yourself the following questions:

What is weighing me down right now?
What fears do I feel before the race?
Are there expectations or self-doubts holding me back?

Write down everything that is troubling you. These words on paper represent a heavy backpack you’ve been carrying. It’s important to consciously name this burden.

3. Step 2 – Giving It to God

Hold the paper in your hands and imagine handing these worries over to God. He invites us to lay our burdens on Him because He cares for us.

Pray together (out loud or silently in your heart):
“Lord, I give You my worries, my doubts, and the pressure I feel. You promised to take care of me, and I trust You. Help me to go to the starting gate with a light heart and focus fully on what You have gifted me to do. Thank You for Your love and for being with me. Amen.”

4. Step 3 – Burning the Worries

One by one, come forward and throw your crumpled paper into the fire bowl. As the paper burns, watch your worries disappear. The fire symbolizes God’s power to transform everything that burdens you.

Take this moment as a symbol of the freedom with which you can now approach your race—free from anything holding you back.

Encouragement: Race with Lightness

You are here today because you are part of a great story. God has given you your talents for a purpose. Remember: Your value is not determined by your position on the podium. God sees your effort, your perseverance, and your courage.

Psalm 18:33-34
“He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; He causes me to stand on the heights.”

You are like deer on the heights, with sure footing, even on steep slopes. Approach this race with confidence, knowing that God goes with you.

Closing Prayer:

Lord, we thank You that we could lay down everything that burdens us before You. Be with each athlete on the slope, giving them courage, focus, and joy in their race. Let them feel that they are not alone and that You care for them. Bless their run and give them a light heart.

Heavenly Father,
we ask for Your blessing on these athletes today. Give them the courage, strength, and confidence they need to pursue their goals, even in challenging times. Strengthen their hearts so that they remain rooted not only in their skiing but also in their hope in You. Bless their race and grant them joy, peace, and Your guidance.
Amen.

Jörg Walcher M.A. / International Sports Chaplaincy

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