NFL stars model Jesus’ example by washing students’ feet at local school 

Some of the NFL’s top players gathered at a local school, not to entertain or compete but to model the humility of Christ by washing feet. 

Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson, running back Derrick Henry and wide receiver Zay Flowers were among the Ravens players who took part in the service-focused outreach at Severn Elementary School in Maryland, where wide-eyed students watched as their football heroes washed their feet then fitted them with new pairs of shoes. 

The event was sparked by an idea from the team’s chaplain and held in partnership with the nonprofit organization Samaritan’s Feet, which gives shoes to those in need around the world. The event also included a personal-finance segment sponsored by M&T Bank and EVERFI. 

Jackson is one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks, a two-time AP MVP and four-time Pro Bowl selection. 

“It’s about being a servant,” Jackson said of the experience, according to BET. “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.” 

The New Testament recounts the story of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet the night of the Last Supper in John 13, which says Christ “got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around his waist.” 

“After that, he poured water into a basin and began to wash his disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around him,” the passage says. 

Photos and video from the event depict Jackson and his teammates sitting in a line as they talk with the students, listening to their stories and offering encouragement. 

Jackson added he wanted to “do something for the community and do something Christ-like.” 

The official Ravens social media account described it as “acts of service” that “represent the importance of humility.”  

Henry, a five-time Pro Bowl player, said he, too, was motivated by faith.  

“Football is what we do, but this is who we are,” Henry said, according to BET. “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.” 

Although the Ravens were 7–8 during the event and on the brink of elimination from the playoff race, the moment underscored a truth deeper than football – and likely won them new fans.