“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” -Hebrews 13:16
It is football season, or as I like to call it, the most wonderful time of the year. I have already had the privilege of watching high school and college games in person. I have enjoyed every minute. Each game is an opportunity for the players to show just how hard they have worked. Their sweat in the weight room, their work on the practice field and in the classroom have helped to make their season possible. I must say, the same is true for the band, cheerleaders, and dance teams. They work so hard to be successful on the field.
One football player I loved to watch was Warrick Dunn. Warrick Dunn became a nationally known player while at Florida State University. As a running back, Dunn ran for over 1,000 yards in 3 straight seasons. He was selected as an All-American and helped lead Florida State to a National Championship. He would be drafted in the first round to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and in his first season would win the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. He would have an exceptional career in the NFL.
Warrick Dunn’s success on the football field was extraordinary. However, his work to make others successful is what he has dedicated his life to beyond the gridiron. Warrick Dunn grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. He had a loving mother who worked so hard to support her family. As a single mother, she did all she could to bless her family. Her dream was to one day purchase a home for herself and her children. Unfortunately, Dunn’s mother died before she could realize that dream.
Warrick has since dedicated his work to helping single mothers achieve the dream of owning a home. He has developed a partnership with Habitat for Humanity, and Catholic High School (Dunn’s high school in Baton Rouge). He has now helped 218 families find a forever home. These homes are fully furnished and offer families a fresh start.
Our success in life is best determined, not by how many yards we run, or how many points we score. Our life is most successful when we bless others. Warrick Dunn was one of the most determined and consistent football players I have witnessed. He has taken that same attitude and determination into the arena of life, and it has become a gift to people in need in his community. He has also become an inspiration to so many who now dedicate their time and effort to bringing love and hope to the world. We work so diligently to be successful in life. Let us not forget to make others’ lives a success along the way.
– Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
