I, like many people, anticipated the NFL Draft last month wondering where all the current crop of players would end up playing next year. As the draft went on, and everyone wondered if Shedeur Sanders was going to be drafted or not, the attention he was receiving was overshadowing something amazing! One player was continually congratulating everyone who was selected. He was seen in his fancy suit smiling, high fiving, and hugging each of the 29 players selected in the first round. Then came the 30th pick…With the 30th pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Buffalo Bills select, Maxwell Hairston, CB from the University of Kentucky!
There were many great things about this pick. I am a big fan of Kentucky sports and actually have a son who graduated from UK and my youngest son is currently a Junior. I loved the way Hairston was so happy for all the players selected before him. In sports, and competition, this is usually the last thing you see…true joy for others. One other touching thing Hairston did when he was selected, he opened up his suit jacket to display photos all over the inside. These photos were of his family who he credited for much of his success. It was a heartwarming moment and one that moved many people.
In a draft that most people will only remember how far Shedeur Sanders dropped, I am grateful for the sweet reminder Maxwell Hairston gave those who paid attention; he showed what a good encourager looks like and the value of family. These types of stories are few and far between.
So in a world where we focus on the wrong things too many times, we can take pride in our ministries that God has allowed us to lead and bring the great news of Jesus. Let’s not let negativity or other sideways energy take our eye off of the prize! Know this, just like the encouragement Maxwell Hairston gave each player that night, your work is making a big difference in the lives of people and encouraging them in their journey with Christ.
