| Home > Articles > Two Minute Meditations > "Long Run" |
 |
 Long Run
by Phil Ware
A Long Obedience in the Same Direction — that’s the title of a book by Eugene Peterson about “discipleship in an instant society.” It’s also the best way to describe the career of Darrell Green, all pro cornerback for the Washington Redskins. He played his last game on December 29, 2002, for the same team with whom he began his pro football career on September 5, 1983. He is the last of Washington’s Super Bowl champion players. Ronald Reagan was in his first term as President when Darrell played his first pro game. He played his last game against the Dallas Cowboys, the same team he gained his first notoriety when he caught Tony Dorsett from behind. What makes Darrell special? There are many who have gained notoriety, wealth, and fame for their on the field exploits and became infamous for their off the field foul ups. Darrell isn’t one of those. Since his days at Texas A&I University, he has been a solid citizen, a role model, and an ultra swift defensive back. He entered the league relatively unknown, but more importantly, he entered the league unchanged. Darrell wants to be known, but not for his football achievements! He wants to be known for his character and charity. The two go hand in hand. He extended his career an extra year so he could raise more money for his charitable organization that helps establish inner city learning centers for disadvantaged kids. His interviews have been filled with talk about the Bible, about being a role model to kids, and about life lived with character with the few necessary references to his sterling career as a defensive back thrown in as gravy. One of his last commercials contained the line, “I’ve won Super Bowls, but nothing compares to knowing that I helped out a child.”
Each of us has also been given a key role to fill in God’s work in the world (Psalm 139:13-16). God calls us to a long obedience in the same direction — a life and a career of character and charity. No one else can fill our role and carry the same influence in the places and among the people God has put us. We have a part to play. So let’s play it with class! Don’t let anyone tell you that you are too old, have been around too long, or that you can’t be productive anymore. Don’t let anyone put you off because you are too young and haven’t proven yourself. Just look at Darrell Green’s example and give your best effort, consistently displaying godly character and living with charity toward those in need, and let God handle the accolades and the honors. Your Father, who sees even the secret things you do that no one else can know, will honor you and reward you in due time (Matthew 6:4).
Author: Phil Ware Publication Date: January 6, 2003 |
 Heartlight only exists because of your support! Click above to visit a sponsor, or donate to join us in our ministry.
|
Heartlight is supported by Westover Hills Church, Southern Hills Church, and loving Christians from around the world.
