Denzel Washington Wraps the Biggest Year of His Career Surrendering to God's Call On His Life

What shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” is a scripture that shows up twice in the Bible, appearing in both Mark 8:34–38 and Matthew 16:26. If there was any man who had the world in the palm of his hand and yet realized the importance of saving his soul and others it is Hollywood blockbuster leading man Denzel Washington.  Washington's name has been synonymous with A-list fame for over 40 years. One of the few Black actors that has experienced true mainstream success, he is cherished and admired by a worldwide audience for his acting chops that supersede the most illustrious Broadway theater shows to empathetic biopics and even high-definition action feature films. Beyond being one of the most prolific actors in history, he has also been labeled a sex symbol, receiving People Magazine's prestigious title of 'Sexiest Man Alive' in 1996.

After his latest award-worthy performance in Ridley Scott’s Gladiator II, and the film becoming his highest grossing movie to date ($403.3 million worldwide) Washington publicly surrendered to the call on his life. The 2-time Oscar-award winning actor was baptized at Kelly Temple Church Of God In Christ and received his certification as a minister. Pauletta, Washington’s wife of 41 years stood proudly by his side, congratulating him on this monumental next step in his life.

Over the years Washington has boldly shared his Christian faith and personal relationship with God. In an infamous interview with Oprah Winfrey, Washington mentioned his mother’s impact on his life. Washington referenced his mother’s constant warnings on his lavish Hollywood lifestyle and her stern requirement that he remain humble. His mother reminded him that God required more than philanthropy from those who have been blessed. After losing her Washington's life began changing publicly. He started speaking publicly on the goodness of God and took numerous opportunities to share his faith while others were focused on his celebrity and fame. The whirlwind press tour for Gladiator gave Washington an opportunity to share his faith in real time on a global platform. In a recent essay in Esquire Magazine, Washington shared the following:

"Things I said about God when I was a little boy, just reciting them in church along with everybody else, I know now. God is real. God is love. God is the only way. God is the true way. God blesses. It’s my job to lift God up, to give Him praise, to make sure that anyone and everyone I speak to the rest of my life understands that He is responsible for me."

Washington didn't shy away from the hypocrisy that often exists in Hollywood.  "When you see me, you see the best I could do with what I’ve been given by my lord and savior. I’m unafraid. I don’t care what anyone thinks. See, talking about the fear part of it — you can’t talk like that and win Oscars. You can’t talk like that and party. You can’t say that in this town. It's not fashionable to be religious in Hollywood,  but I don't care what anyone thinks," he shared.

Taking this bold stance as one of the most influential actors in the business was not lost on Washington's fans who have been extremely supportive of this new chapter in his life. Earlier this year Washington hinted at retiring from the business after several scheduled projects including a role in Ryan Coogler's third installment of Black Panther. The excitement shared online over Washington being connected with Chadwick Boseman's legendary role couldn't overshadow fans' disappointment at the thought of him officially retiring from movies. Washington later recanted the formality of his words, but the writing is on the wall concerning the trajectory of his career. Thankfully, Washington's presence will not be the end of his legacy as his oldest son John David Washington has become one of Hollywood's leading hopefuls. His son Malcolm made his directorial debut this year with 'The Piano Lesson' which aired on Netflix and starred his brother John David.

Washington's example has always stood for excellence whether he was playing a former troublemaker in 'Devil In A Blue Dress'. a ladies' man in 'Mississippi Masala', a detective in 'Ricochet' or the historical icon Malcolm X in Spike Lee's iconic biopic. His fans can be certain he will apply the same level of hard work, integrity and commitment to his next chapter as a minister. Although this work may not garnish the same level of worldly accolades, it will inevitably leave even a bigger mark on those he touches.