Although modern bicycles as we know them didn’t exist during biblical times, competitive riding, particularly involving chariots pulled by horses, was not only known but was also a major part of ancient life.
In civilizations such as ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, chariot races were prestigious events, often held in grand arenas like hippodromes or on specially constructed roads.
In the Bible, chariots are often mentioned in the context of warfare and spiritual symbolism. One notable passage is Zechariah 6:1–8, where four chariots are described as being sent by God to the four corners of the earth, illustrating that such vehicles were not just tools of war;
But also means of conveying divine messages swiftly and powerfully. This shows how, even then, speed and direction were valued not just for physical purposes but also in spiritual missions.
Fast forward to modern times, and bicycles have become global instruments of sport, fitness, peace, and cultural exchange. This evolution is what led to the establishment of international cycling competitions, culminating in events like the UCI Road World Championships. In a groundbreaking development, Rwanda is hosting the 2025 edition, becoming the first African country to ever organize this prestigious event.
From September 21 to 28, 2025, Rwanda is welcoming over 1,200 professional cyclists from more than 75 countries, along with more than 5,000 international visitors. The races span across beautiful regions of Rwanda including Kigali, Bugesera, Muhanga, Karongi, and Rubavu, offering not just a competition, but a display of Rwanda’s resilience, beauty, and transformation.
The Bible does not shy away from the idea of competition. In fact, the Apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthians, used the metaphor of a race to describe the Christian life: "Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize." — 1 Corinthians 9:24
This was not a random illustration. Paul was writing to people familiar with athletic competitions, especially in Greek and Roman societies, where public games were a significant cultural feature. His analogy is clear: the Christian life is a race, one that demands discipline, endurance, training, and focus on the eternal reward.
Similarly, 2 Timothy 4:7 echoes this sentiment: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” These scriptures show that competition was not frowned upon but rather embraced as a useful image for spiritual growth and perseverance.
Rwanda’s hosting of the UCI World Championships is more than just a sporting milestone, it is a spiritual moment. The same country that endured tragedy is now hosting nations, welcoming thousands of visitors, and standing tall as a symbol of peace, progress, and hope.
This presents a unique opportunity for Christians in Rwanda. The Bible encourages believers to “show hospitality to strangers” (Hebrews 13:2), and this championship offers a rare chance to live that out in tangible ways, through warm welcomes, excellent service, kindness, and even the sharing of the Gospel.
Beyond the physical competition, Christians are reminded that they too are in a race, not one that ends with a medal, but one that leads to eternal life. Watching cyclists push through Rwanda’s hills and roads can serve as a spiritual mirror, showing that the Christian journey also requires sacrifice, teamwork, and determination.
Hosting cyclists from countries like Italy, France, the USA, Canada, Colombia, Germany, and Eritrea, Rwanda is showcasing more than roads and mountains, it’s shining the light of transformation, proving that a nation can rise from pain and become a beacon of hope.
This is not just a championship of physical strength, but also a call for spiritual readiness. The presence of thousands of foreigners provides an open door for witness, unity, and testimony.
Let this moment leave us with a lasting lesson: “Do not give up. Keep racing until the end of life.”
As Paul declared: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
2 Timothy 4:7
The 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Rwanda is a celebration of sport, unity, and progress. But for Christians, it is also a powerful reminder: we are all in a race. Whether watching from the roadside or welcoming guests from afar, let this global event ignite our faith, sharpen our focus, and deepen our understanding of the journey toward eternal life.
Let every cyclist, every cheering fan, and every warm handshake point us back to Christ, the ultimate prize.
