At 26 years old, Khari Willis of the Indianapolis Colts had a bright future ahead of him with the NFL. But instead, the young man chose to walk away from millions. Why? To focus on advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
It’s easy to nod our heads and shout ‘Amens’ in church when we talk about the Great Commission. But how many of us would turn down millions of dollars to live out this call from Christ?
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Well, Khari Willis of the Indianapolis Colts did just that! After three seasons with the NFL as one of his team’s top defensive players, the 26-year-old took to social media to announce his retirement.
Khari Willis, Indianapolis Colts Star, Leaves NFL
The Indianapolis Colts drafted Khari Willis in 2019. He earned about $3 million over the course of his first three seasons and had $2.54 million waiting for him for the 2022 season. But Khari felt God calling him to something much higher worth more than any amount of money.
“With much prayer and deliberation, I have elected to officially retire from the NFL as I endeavor to devote the remainder of my life to the further advancement of the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” he wrote on Instagram. “I thank all of my family, friends and those who have supported me on this journey thus far, and I look forward to your continued support through the next phase of my life. I am both humbled and excited to pursue the holy call that God has for my life, which brings me much joy and purpose. Thank you all for your support over the years.”
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Following God’s Calling
The news that Khari Willis is retiring from the Indianapolis Colts came as a surprise to most. In fact, Zak Keefer, a writer who covers the team, called it a “stunner.”
News: In a bit of a stunner, Colts safety Khari Willis is retiring. His plan is to devote himself to ministry fulltime. A fourth-round draft pick in 2019 out of Michigan State, Willis has started 33 games over the past three seasons, piling up 219 tackles and four interceptions.
- Zak Keefer (@zkeefer) June 15, 2022
But by and large, the overall response has been positive. Head coach Frank Reich acknowledged how much Khari would be missed, but also expressed admiration for the young man’s bold decision.
"Khari's character, leadership, and professionalism will be missed in our locker room, as will his play on Sundays." pic.twitter.com/Hm6wlR46vu
- Indianapolis Colts (@Colts) June 15, 2022
“I admire and respect his decision to transition into the next stage of his life and ministry, and my prayers will always be with him,” coach Frank Reich said.
Kudos to Khari Willis for having the courage to follow God’s calling no matter what it costs!
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“Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.'” Matthew 16:24
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h/t: Christian Headlines
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