Look Now!

With the recent passing of the great champion, Muhammad Ali, this true story from the boxer’s life is a timely reminder of our message in today’s Gospel Lesson.

Three times he was the heavyweight champion of the world, gracing the cover of Sports Illustrated some 28 times. He was king of his profession. In his own words, he could “float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.” An entourage of reporters, trainers and support staff trailed him as he raced around the world. He had power, he had worldly status, he had riches. But what was the great champion doing in retirement? In 1988, just four years after Ali was diagnosed with Parkinson’s syndrome, sportswriter Gary Smith went to find out. Ali led Smith to a barn next to his farmhouse. On the floor, leaning against the walls, were mementos of Ali in his prime: photos and portraits of the champ — punching and dancing; sculpted body; fists punching the air; championship belt held…