Mourning the loss of “D.T.” – A Denver Broncos icon

I was shocked and saddened to hear the news that former Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas “D.T.” passed away from a medical issue.  He was 33.  As a football fan, I saw with my own eyes how talented and special he was.  Two examples come to my mind.  First of all, the catch and run he made against the Pittsburgh Steelers in the playoffs in the 2011 wildcard game.  Tim Tebow throws a pass to DT on the first play in overtime, and Thomas takes it all the way to the end zone to seal the Broncos victory.  What a moment!

Secondly, it was in Super Bowl 48 when the Broncos – with a record setting offense – were completely destroyed by the Seattle Seahawks 43-8.  But, in that game, it was Demaryius Thomas who set a Super Bowl record for most receptions by a player; he had a whopping 13 catches!  The record has since been broken, but Demaryius was one of the few bright spots for Denver that day.

As the tributes have been pouring in, it is evident that Demaryius Thomas was just as special off the football field as he was on it.  For example, Peyton Manning said, “DT was a better person than he was a player, and he was a Hall of Fame player, that tells you how good a person he was.  He treated my kids like they were his own.  He was there for every teammate’s charity event…Absolutely devastated.” 

I was so touched by Tim Tebow’s words of tribute: “So many are going to remember him for his athletic ability,” he said, “But I’ll be remembering him for his kindness, his smile that would light up a room, and the love he had for those in his life” (quotes from https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/32834405/former-denver-broncos-wr-demaryius-thomas-33-found-dead-home-police-say).

My thoughts and prayers go to DT’s family and friends.  I know what it’s like to lose a loved one unexpectedly, so I can resonate with the pain, grief, and anguish they are going through right now.

In conclusion, this sad news was a reminder for me to cherish every day; it is a gift.  There is a fine line between life and death.  Further, it reminds me to share the hope in my heart.  1 Peter 3:15 says, “Be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you.”  I have hope today because it is found in Jesus.  I celebrate Him this Christmas season.  

Kevin