Thoughts and Prayers

By Kim Roberts

Families sat paralyzed in fear watching a regular Monday night football game, not believing what was unfolding right in front of their very eyes in real time, as a young man lay motionless on the field after a routine tackle. We saw the fear, pain and disbelief in all of the players faces.

I don’t know Damar (Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills), but I sure did start praying for him immediately. My faith called me to pray for this young man who literally died on the field and was brought back to life.

I didn’t hear as many pleas for “thoughts and prayers” going out to this young man as I saw actual heads bowing and people praying openly. I saw an ESPN commentator stop right in the middle of his broadcast and start praying for Damar’s recovery, out loud, for everyone to hear.

It was one of the most powerful, beautiful, thoughtful prayers I’ve heard in a long time – especially on live, unscripted television. The nation came together all at once and proclaimed their belief in prayer and its ability to heal this football player. It was an unbelievable thing to see for a nation that, lately, has seemed to be drifting away from God and prayer.

This one moment has united so many warriors in Christ, at times moving me to tears. We are not just uttering the words thoughts and prayers, but actually living our faith out loud in public.

I feel like people are turning to God in this moment to help another human who is suffering and it is unifying everyone in hope and faith and helping Damar to recover.

Matthew 18:19-20, “Again I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted by my heavenly Father. For where two of three have gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”