Who Is Damar Hamlin?

I’ll be honest. Before this week, I had never heard of Damar Hamlin. I did not watch the Monday night game, so I had no idea who he was or what had happened to him. However, Tuesday morning the news and social media outlets were buzzing with the news of his cardiac arrest while playing football Monday night.

It was a sobering moment for everyone, and for the first time in NFL history, a game was halted due to an injury. Some interesting things happened. The players on the field spontaneously gathered around him to pray for him while he was getting CPR. Newscasters, other teams, coaches, and people all over the country were praying for him. I found myself praying for him as well. Miraculously, he had his breathing tube removed this week and he was able to Facetime with his family, friends, and teammates.

I think God allowed this tragedy to unite people. He brought people together in prayer that otherwise might have been enemies or at least apathetic towards one another. Damar had already laid a foundation with his teammates and coaches. They knew that he loved God, and he loved them! That love touched our entire nation this week.

Damar started a GoFundMe account to raise $2,500 for poor children in his community. As of today, over $8,000,000 has been donated. God has incredible things for Damar to still do with his life. I can’t wait to hear about the next chapter and see how God uses him for the Kingdom of God. Damar, if you happen to read this, know that we continue to pray for you and your family. A great verse for you and anyone who is going through tough times to hang on to is Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Shalom!

Daniel Skognes

danskognes.com