Although they’re working to salvage a disappointing season, some Baltimore Ravens stars took time last week to serve local students. Quarterback Lamar Jackson, running back Derrick Henry, and wide receiver Zay Flowers showed up at Severn Elementary School to give back to the community.
Led by team chaplain Johnny Shelton, the NFL athletes knelt to wash children’s feet, offer one-on-one encouragement, and then fit them with new sneakers. The initiative was a partnership between the Ravens and the nonprofit organization Samaritan’s Feet.
“These acts of service…represent the importance of humility and serving others,” the Ravens wrote on social media.
Baltimore Ravens Wash Feet at Local School
Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, an outspoken Christian, said he learned about the unique holiday-season service opportunity during team chapel.
“I wanted to do something for the community and do something Christ-like,” he told reporters, when asked about the foot-washing.
Media coverage of the event noted the biblical significance of Jesus humbling himself to serve at the Last Supper.
“It’s about being a servant,” said Jackson. “Jesus washed the feet of his disciples to show that no one is too big to serve. We wanted these kids to know that we see them, we care about them, and we are here to support them in any way we can.”
Jackson, the 2023 NFL MVP, previously said he focuses on “keeping God first, because without him, there is no Lamar Jackson.” After winning the Heisman Trophy at age 19, the QB thanked his “Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ” because “without him, none of this would be possible.”
Derrick Henry: Giving Back Blesses Us Too
All-Pro running back Derrick Henry, aka King Henry, also participated in the Ravens outreach event.
“Football is what we do, but this is who we are,” he said. “Giving back to the community is a responsibility. To be able to humble ourselves and follow that example of Christ—it’s a blessing to us just as much as it is to the kids.”
