In my closet at home is a Denver Broncos number 19 jersey. One word is emblazoned across the back: “RICE”. No, I have never played professional football, but Jerry Rice did. And how he played!
Rice set most of the significant NFL records for wide receiver. He has three Super Bowl rings, went to the Pro Bowl thirteen times, scored an all-time record two-hundred eight touchdowns, and is in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But that is not why I have his jersey. Do you know why I have his jersey?
Apart from the most obvious reason, plagiarism, I have the jersey because of the word on the front of the jersey: “Broncos”. You see, there is a difference between admiration and love. While I have admired Jerry Rice’s ability for years, I love the Denver Broncos because they are my team.
In a brief episode few will remember, Jerry Rice considered playing for the Broncos after twenty seasons in the NFL. He later decided to retire, after signing a symbolic one-day contract with the San Francisco 49ers, the team with which he is most associated. But for a brief moment in 2004, my admiration of Jerry Rice’s skill merged with my love for his team, and Rice had a new fan.
People may admire you for your ability, but they love you for being on their team. The Ranch is blessed with one-thousand three-hundred acres, a dedicated and capable staff and a six-decade history of serving local churches. But this year, I hope we will have the privilege to be on your team and to strengthen the work to which God has called you.