Jordin Sparks displays Bible verses while singing national anthem on 'Monday Night Football'

Jordin Sparks became the latest figure to draw attention during the National Anthem on Monday night (Sept. 25) while singing prior to the Arizona Cardinals hosting the Dallas Cowboys on Monday Night Football.

Rather than kneel or lock arms like players around the NFL chose to do over the weekend as a silent protest for racial injustice, Sparks displayed "Prov 31:8-9" on her left hand -- the Bible verse, Proverbs 31:8-9, which reads: "Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy."

Sparks' father, Phillippi Sparks, played in the NFL for nine years for the New York Giants and the Cowboys.

On Jan. 20, the Grammy-nominated singer tweeted on Pres. Trump's inaugruation day, "I've had the amazing opportunity to meet, speak to & perform for multiple Presidents over the years. Clinton, Bushx2, Obama...and no matter who's in Office, it's an honor. I was raised to show respect to everyone, President or not. I've prayed for each administration and will continue to pray for the former Presidents & my prayer remains the same for the 45th.

"'For God to grant discernment and the wisdom in decisions domestic & abroad and in keeping the country safe & united. To keep music/arts in schools, to continuously uplift the youth for they are the future. And, for compassion, understanding & justice for all.' It may not be the popular thing but it is the right thing. God Bless America."

On Friday night (Sept. 22) at a political rally in Alabama, Trump stated that NFL owners should fire all players who don't stand for the National Anthem, while also calling them "son of a bitch." Those comments, and a series of angry tweets that followed targeting NFL players has sparked a renewal and growth of the knee-taking protest former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick began in the NFL's 2016 preseason.