In Tribute to Marquis Cooper
Who would imagine that a football player could be a profound reminder of a need for prayer? The Raider Nation took another blow as news broke of Marquis Cooper and friends accident at sea. As this tragedy unfolded before our eyes the astounding and amazing transformation of the Raider faithful breaking out in hope and prayer, for their survival. Quietly the nation tuned in by leaving messages of hope on sports sites throughout the internet. As millions watched on television hope of seeing these men rescued was fading fast.
As the authorities called off the search family and friends faced the reality, that these larger than life football players had become victims of mother nature's wrath. In the wake of such a heartbreaking development of this tragedy wins and losses suddenly don't seem so important anymore. I think that we as fans, media, players, coaches, everyone stand to learn something from the tragedy that has fallen on these young men and their families. I happen to be of the belief that everything happens for a reason. It is a belief that echoes the hearts of many. Whether those obstacles are small or large as losing a love one, I have always known in my heart that there was a reason, and that something positive would come out of it whether I knew it or not. Certainly, the Raider Nation cannot argue. That there are more important things in life than the results of a sporting event.
However, letting sports become your all in life, is a dangerous road to follow. Life is hard. It is painful. While this world is certainly filled with wonderful and beautiful things, the average person also endures their fair share of hardships, losing a love one is heartbreaking. Sports are supposed to be an escape. They allow you for a few hours-forget all of your struggles, and to lose yourself in a world as simple as the game of football. Certainly, Marquis Cooper and friends died in an unlikely accident that happened while they were doing what they loved fishing off the Florida coast.
These players should be a reminder of how fragile life really is. They should help us all to remember that there really are far more important things in life. Certainly, for their families and those who love them, finding the silver lining in this terrible circumstance will be truly difficult. However, if more people can gain this perspective, then maybe-hopefully-their death won't be in vain. As the Raider Nation mourns in remembrance. One can only reflect on the impact made by Marquis with young people. His peers in tribute have left his locker untouched as seen in the photo above. The blessing here, he knew Jesus Christ as his Lord and savior. Our prayers are with all the family members and love ones as they seek comfort from the Lord...
Pastor Mando
"keep the faith"
