Ricky Simmons is an example of a college football player who went from the penthouse to the outhouse. In the early 1980s, he was a star receiver for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. Following his graduation and brief pro career, he traded his football life for cocaine. Eventually, he landed in a prison cell and was forgotten by friends and football fans. It wasn’t until he received an envelope from his former coach that his life changed.

“Dear Ricky, I know your parents believed in you. I believe in you. Upon your release, if there’s anything I can do to help you, feel free to contact me. Tom Osborne.”

Simmons said, “I fell to my knees right there in my prison cell and turned my life over to Christ. The fact he took time out of his day to even acknowledge me … I can never repay him for that.” Simmons left prison and became a drug counselor and motivational speaker. Since leaving prison, he meets Osborne weekly to show him that he remains clean and accountable to God for his life.

Philemon – Forgiveness Can Change Everything

Osborne told Simmons he believed in him with this brief positive statement that profoundly impacted him. As Ricky reflected on Osborne’s willingness to forgive and believe in him, he understood and responded to God’s love, grace, and mercy. Paul did something similar for Philemon in the shortest of all Paul’s letters, Philemon. Paul also expected good things from Philemon and remained optimistic about his future (1:21).

Paul challenged Philemon to forgive and restore his relationship with his runaway slave, Onesimus. Since Philemon had become a Christian, Paul wanted him to accept Onesimus as a brother in Christ and not just as a slave. Jesus modeled forgiveness for believers when He died on the cross to forgive our sins. Forgiveness is not an option for Christians.

 The Kingdom Coach and Athlete do whatever they can to maintain healthy relationships with others that reflect the love, grace, and mercy God has shown them.