(Image from The Guardian)

I would be remiss if I didn’t voice my thankfulness for the unfolding of the Damar Hamlin story. A week ago very few people knew his name or were aware of his charitable foundation. But in less than one week over $8 million has been donated to help children in Damar’s hometown of McKees Rocks, Pa, and most people now know know who he is. All the notoriety and donations have occurred since the Buffalo Bills player suffered a devastating injury last Monday night that was witnessed by millions of football fans. Untold number of prayers have been lifted for Damar and his family, starting immediately after he collapsed on the field, needing immediate CPR and other life-saving methods to get his heart beating again.

I know I was not the only one struck by the response of the players and fans in the stadium to this situation. Tears, prayers, reverent silence, and support from everyone there was evident. Grown men knelt in a supportive circle after Damar was taken by ambulance to the hospital in critical condition. ESPN reporter Dan Orlovsky prayed on live TV, stating, “Maybe this is not the right thing to do. It’s just on my heart that I want to pray for Damar Hamlin right now.” Then he continued, “I’m going to do it out loud, I’m going to close my eyes, I’m going to bow my head, and I’m just going to pray for him.” And he did!

May I offer the opinion that Dan Orlovsky did the absolute right thing in lifting this critically ill player to his Heavenly Father. In times like these, it’s the only place to go and the only thing to do – it is never wrong to pray.

Damar is improving and has asked everyone to “keep praying.” Please join me in doing so because I truly believe we are witnessing a miracle from God. Thank you, Lord!