Each December, I look forward to joining my fellow track and cross country coaches from all over the state at our annual coaches’ clinic. It’s sort of a kick-start to the upcoming track season. One of the highlights is the Hall of Fame luncheon, which honors several people who have achieved great success in Missouri Track and XC over the years.

Early in my career, I felt a sense of awe as I listened to the introductions of these inductees and wonder if I’d ever be able to achieve the things they had. The funny thing was, though, that I’d never heard of most of the recipients until I attended those luncheons. As a result, their accomplishments (however impressive) didn’t mean much to me, either.

Over the years, I’ve come to realize just how subjective earthly rewards really are. In many ways, their meaning depends on who cares about whoever is being lauded. By no means do I want to undervalue anyone’s achievements by saying that. But when it comes to most earthly rewards, they mainly matter to those who love either the people or the specific sport.

This is one reason why, as Christians, we need to constantly remind ourselves that earthly applause isn’t why we do what we do. Christ is our audience, and what we do in and for Him always matters. Sure, it feels good to get that occasional “attagirl,” but if my coaching tenure—more importantly, my life—doesn’t glorify God in some way, then it will be all for naught.

This year will be my first as a head girls’ track coach, and my prayer is that God will be glorified in all that I do. I’m not so delusional as to expect perfection, so I’m trusting God with all of the plans (Proverbs 3:5-6). Whether I’m ever honored as a Hall of Famer or not doesn’t matter. As long as God is pleased with me and I know I’ve made a difference in a young student-athlete’s life, then I will be truly satisfied.

Today, let’s remember that, while honors and awards are nice, they aren’t why we compete and coach. We compete for an audience of One, and His eternal “Hall of Fame” is the only one that matters.