O.J. Simpson dead at 78: pray for his soul

O.J. Simpson’s family confirmed that the once football legend has died of cancer. At the age of 78, Orenthal James (O.J.) Simpson passed away “surrounded by his children and grandchildren” (according to a statement on Simpson’s X account). Don't forget, he has a family and that family is innocent and grieving. Pray for their peace.

Simpson gained fame during his 11 seasons in the NFL, mostly with the Buffalo Bills. His name and face took on a whole new meaning of notoriety during the murder trial of his ex-wife (Nicole Brown) and her friend (Ronald Goldman). He was found not guilty of the murders, but later was sued for wrongful death. (a lawsuit he lost).

It is disturbing to me how many people throughout social media are joyful and celebrating his death. Many are proclaiming he is “going to hell” or condemning him to hell for “what he done”. As Christians, we hold to the truth that every life has dignity, value, and worth. It does not matter what that person has done or not done. It doesn’t matter if we like them or view them as a monster. It doesn’t matter what we think. God creates every single person with an inherent value and worth that he solidified on the cross of Calvary.

We are to be different. Matthew 5:13 says “you are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.” We should be asking others to join us in praying for the repose of his soul. St. Peter writes that the Lord does not “want anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance”. We do not know if O.J. repented before his death. We do not know the state of his soul. We do not even know if he is guilty of the crimes so many people believe he conducted. What we do know, however, according to the God’s Holy Word is that Christ does not desire for anyone (including Simpson) to spend eternity in hell.

We know hell is a reality and countless souls have been condemned to the eternal place of torment because of their sins and refusal to repent. I encourage you, as you see so many on social media cheering and celebrating O.J.’s death, to ask them to pray for his soul. We can be the salt of the earth simply by praying for his soul and asking others to join us. Jesus died for the soul of O.J. Simpson on the cross of Calvary just like he did for you and for me.

“Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.”