The Jersey in the Stands

In 2019, before Zion Williamson played his first official NBA game for the New Orleans Pelicans, cameras caught something in the crowd at the Smoothie King Center. His stepfather, Lee Anderson, was sitting in the stands wearing a custom jersey — not with "Williamson" on the back, but with the words "Zion's Dad." He wasn't there to be seen. He was there to be heard. And when Zion looked up during warmups, Lee was on his feet, clapping, beaming, making sure his son knew one thing before the whistle ever blew: You are mine, and I am proud of you.

Zion hadn't proven anything yet in the NBA. He hadn't scored a single professional point. The game hadn't started. But the declaration had already been made.

This is what happens at the Jordan River in Mark 1. Jesus steps into the water, and before He preaches a single sermon, before He heals a single leper, before He calms a single storm, the heavens tear open and the voice of the Almighty thunders: "You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased." The mission hadn't begun — but the identity was already settled.

God did not wait for Jesus to earn it. The Father spoke first. And He speaks the same over every one of us who comes up dripping from the water: You are mine. I am proud of you. Now go.