I have been a Dallas Cowboys fan for many years now. There hasn’t been a whole lot to cheer about in recent years, at least in terms of wins and championships. But there was much to cheer for a few days ago; the Cowboys performed a wonderful act of kindness for family members of the five police officers who were gunned down in Dallas a few weeks ago. Undoubtedly you’ve heard about the senseless tragedy has rocked the city of Dallas and many residents are trying to figure out how to move forward.
Jason Witten, the longtime tight end for the Cowboys wanted his team to do something to help honor the fallen heroes and comfort the family members of the victims. After talking to Cowboy officials they came up with an idea. The owner of the Cowboys, Jerry Jones invited the family members along with the Mayor of Dallas, Mike Rawlings and the police chief, David Brown to come to the Cowboys training camp in California. The Cowboys paid for the group to fly out and stay in a beach hotel.
On Saturday, July 30th the Cowboys walked arm in arm with their distinguished guests onto their practice field. It was show of unity and a tribute to those who had died. Valerie Samaria is the mother of one the fallen police officers. She said through tears she would never forget the act of kindness the Cowboys did for her and the other families.
The Cowboys wore a patch on their uniforms that read, “arm in arm” to honor the officers and express the unity of the city and their football team in this difficult time. It didn’t solve all the problems we have in this country or in Dallas regarding race and how the African-American community and police interact. But for that one moment, on that practice field, people came together and this Cowboy fan was very proud of the players and coaches for showing such kindness to those who are hurting.
I always remember Jesus’ words in Matthew….When you care for the least of these, when you show God’s love and kindness to them…then you are doing the same for me.
Rev. Dave Poteet, Pastor of Congregational Care
