September 23, 2026
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.” -Luke 6:35-36
The opportunity to do good is all around us. Sometimes, the good we do emerges from the most difficult moments of our lives. Bobby Wagner has helped many people through his charitable giving and dedicated work. For the past fourteen years, Bobby has played in the National Football League. Bobby plays one of the most challenging and toughest roles in the NFL. He is a linebacker. Last year, Bobby Wagner was the leading tackler on the Washington Commanders. He has been a leader both on and off the field.
At the end of last year, Bobby Wagner received one of the NFL’s most prestigious awards. He was awarded the 2025 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. The award goes to the NFL player who has demonstrated great success on the field and exceptional charitable work beyond the gridiron. The list of Bobby’s efforts is as long as his time in professional football.
The winner of the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award receives $265,000 to support the cause of the winner’s choice. Bobby’s award went to the Phenia Mae Fund, named in honor of his mother. Phenia passed away in 2009 from complications after suffering a stroke. Bobby loved his mother. He wanted to honor her by helping prevent strokes and helping those who have experienced the terrible effects of a stroke. This fund is part of the FAST54 program Bobby started and helps run. FAST represents the signs of a stroke: Face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty, and time to call 911. 54 is Bobby’s jersey number.
Bobby Wagner helps people in so many ways. FAST54 and the Phenia Mae Fund are his personal mission to help prevent and support those who have experienced a stroke, which comes from the tragic loss of his mother. While Bobby mourns the loss of his mother, he knows he has the ability to help others who are going through difficult times. Through his efforts, Bobby has raised over $1,000,000 to help adult and pediatric stroke patients. From his own pain, Bobby has found purpose in loving and supporting so many.
We all have opportunities to do good. At times, we let our own trials and struggles keep us from looking beyond ourselves. That does not have to be the case. Our troubles can become the inspiration that helps us bless others. When we experience difficulties, it often opens our eyes to the needs of others. When we see our family, friends, and neighbors in need, we realize the opportunity to do good is right in front of us.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
