Who Do You Play For?

When it comes to magical runs, some of the teams are obvious: Jimmy V and the 1983 Wolfpack, the 2004 “Cowboy Up” Red Sox, and of course the 1980 Miracle on Ice. Though these unforgettable teams played different sports, they all had that “it” factor in common. You know, that thing in teamsports you can't define, but you just know it when you see it. That competitive edge, that swagger, that sense of belief, that shared identity that makes a group of ordinary men giant killers.

Another thing is clear about the “it” factor.You can't manufacture or force it. The “It” factor is like the mustard seed in the Gospel. It grows little by little as it is watered by suffering and perseverance. We all know that a team either rises or crumbles when it faces adversity. The same is true in life. Suffering and hardships either destroy us or form us into men of God.

The Saints that protect and represent League Morning Star understood this very well. These men were much like you and me. They too struggled, suffered, and doubted the goodness of God. And yet, through perseverance and most importantly the power of God's grace, they became men that stood in the breach and led culture changing initiatives. Their lives demonstrate the victory of God in every age and that holiness is possible for ordinary men. Take a look at the descriptions below. Afterall, you need to answer Herb Brooks' perennial question, “Who do you play for?”

Saint Augustine lived from 354-430 in North Africa. Known as the Doctor of Grace, Saint Augustine wrote numerous works in philosophy, theology, and politics. One of the most learned men of his age, Augustine, prior to his conversion, used his intellect to dissuade people from joining the Church. In addition to being critical of Catholicism, Augustine fathered a child outside of wedlock and had several mistresses. Though the most successful lawyer and orator of his day, he began to question his priorities when he met Ambrose, the Bishop of Milan. In Ambrose, Augustine finally met his match intellectually. More importantly, Augustine was struck by the interior peace of Ambrose. He began to ask himself, “how could this poor celebate man be so happy? I have so much more than him and yet I feel empty?”

Their friendship began Augustine's long journey of conversion. This beautiful conversion is outlined in Augustine’s Confessions, which is undoubtedly his most read work. In this honest and masterful self-reflection, Augustine outlines the struggles of letting go of worldly attachments. In this famous work, he candidly remarks, “Lord, make me chaste but not yet.” Few saints are as raw and honest as Saint Augustine. His conversion shows us that every saint has a past and every sinner has a future. No sin is too big for God to forgive. As Saint Augustine shows, the mercy of God gives our life a new and definitive direction. Saint Augustine, pray for us!