Tom Brady's Response By Luke Heaton

It was Father’s Day this past Sunday, a holiday that celebrates the sacrificial love of dads across the country. One of my favorite sports moments regarding a father/son relationship is from Super Bowl 51 when Tom Brady, who led the Patriots to a historic comeback win over the Atlanta Falcons 34-28, was interviewed prior to the game. Brady was asked, “Many people say you’re their hero, but who is your hero?” The future Hall of Famer’s tearful response was simple yet profound: “I think my dad is my hero because he is someone I look up to every day.” Of course, such an emotional and relatable video from a superstar athlete went viral, but it has continued to resurface on social media every year. Why is that? Tom Brady’s gratitude and thankfulness was a refreshing attitude in a world that seems to be ruled by self-praise. Even at the pinnacle of his profession, Brady took the time to exalt his dad. Followers of Jesus are called to do the same thing in our relationship with God. The entire 107th Psalm is centered on thankfulness, but the very beginning hits the nail on the head. “Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story—” (Psalm 107: 1-2; NIV). As Christ followers, how often are we exalting God to the community of people around us? Do we regularly show Him genuine gratitude and tell people of His redemption in our life? This world is hungry and thirsty for the goodness only found in Jesus. How selfish would it be to not exalt the enduring love and redeeming nature of Him every chance we get? Let this be a challenge and a reminder to us as we follow Jesus. Let us shout His praises and display gratitude for His love and redemption. Jesus has graciously allowed us to know Him, so let's make sure "He is someone we look up to every day.” I’m Luke Heaton and you can UNPACK that! PRAYER: God, thank You for Your enduring love that never fails me. Thank you for graciously and mercifully redeeming me from the eternal consequence of my sin. Help me to shout Your praises and exalt You in gratitude to those around me. Give me a thankful heart for Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.