Fan of Some. Follower of One.
This past week, I went with a friend to the US Open for several reasons. First, as long as I lived in NYC and thereafter, I never missed an Open. I love watching tennis. On this one particular day, we were bent on going because Roger Federer was back to play for the fans as well as for the fun. Aside from his superlative performance on the court, he has established himself as an integrous athlete who loves his fans. And I am one of them.
The next day, after my morning run, I heard that Dolly Parton passed. Such an icon. Dolly’s musicality alone was incomparable given she wrote over 3,000 songs in addition to her appearances on TV and film. She was committed to her marriage for nearly 60 years, advocated for literacy and other noble causes and gave generously. More so, her heart was deeply invested in others. And she was all about her faith. For those reasons alone, I am a fan of Dolly Parton.
Not just Roger or Dolly but I am a fan of several public figures. People stars. I could run a list of my favorites because I am a fan of those who are accomplished in their field. It’s natural to gravitate toward ‘people stars’ since they are top tier. And there is nothing wrong with being a fan however, being a fan is very different from being a follower. Fans can obsess about their stars but in time, new stars are born and the cycle repeats. Followers are different. Followers commit to One for a lifetime. That One is who directs our steps in the right direction, protects us and provides all our needs.
I will always be a fan of Roger, Dolly and a few other legitimate stars in their respective fields. But the one I follow is the One who created the stars that will never dim. And that is why I am a fan of some and a follower of One. “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me" (Matt. 6:24).
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