This interview is part of our series of getting to know the speakers and musicians who will be at the Midwinter conference in January. We asked them some questions about our theme for the year, “Follow Me.”
Jason Brown, a former NFL lineman, founded First Fruit Farms, which aims to share the love of Christ and assist with hunger relief in eastern North Carolina.
Where do you currently live?
Louisburg, North Carolina
Can you describe a pivotal moment when you responded to the call to follow Jesus?
Jesus told me he had a calling for me far greater than my professional football career. I scoffed at him and said, “Really? Greater than all of the fame and fortune I have right now?” Jesus said “Yes! Just trust in me.” Walking away from multiple multi-million dollar offers was the toughest decision I have ever made in my life. That was 12 years ago. Now it all makes perfect sense.
How has your understanding of what it means to follow Jesus changed over time?
Becoming a farmer and raising sheep has given me a newfound respect for Jesus Christ and a deeper understanding of the relationship between a Shepherd and his sheep. I try my best to protect and provide for my sheep, but they are some of the most ignorant and stubborn animals I have ever worked with. Every time I get frustrated, I am reminded that I, too, am a sheep in need of a shepherd because I behave just like them when I walk in my flesh.
Who is the most interesting person you follow online (social media, blogs, podcasts, etc.), and why?
I follow several of my former teammates from the St. Louis Rams and the Baltimore Ravens.
Just for fun: What was your last Google search?
Perennial fruit and nut trees that grow well in North Carolina.
