Who Said It
Mike Singletary

Mike Singletary is one of the most determined and accomplished players in NFL history. In the 12 seasons (1981-1992) that "Samurai" Singletary played linebacker for the Chicago Bears, he was twice named NFL defensive player of the year, and named ten times to the Pro Bowl team. Mike is outspoken about his faith and family (he and Kim have seven children). In 2005, he became the assistant head coach and linebacker coach for the San Francisco 49ers.

What He Said
God's Penetration Play

While speaking in prisons, I urged inmates to reconcile with their fathers. Kim called me on it: "Mike, how can you tell other people to reconcile with their loved ones when you won't call your dad? Are you going to forgive him or is the blood of Jesus going to be in vain?"

My parents got a divorce when I was a kid. I'd sided with my mom, refused to forgive my dad, and hadn't talked to him for years. God finally made it clear that I had to act. I made the call. There was screaming and crying. We both almost hung up. But we stayed with it, and talked for three hours. I forgave my dad, he forgave me, and we started a new relationship.

A couple of months later, I visited my dad. We hugged, and for the first time in my life, I told him I loved him. As we talked, I began to understand the dynamics that shaped him.

Now he's bedridden. It's a good thing we got our relationship right while we could still enjoy each other.

Adapted from Mike Singletary: One-on-One (Regal, 2005) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, I'm on the receiving end of Your grace big time! Help me to dish it out to others.

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