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?”

Damian, along with his twin brother Cosmas, was a doctor in the third century. Despite risking his career as a physician, he elected to become a Christian. This was a significant decision for several reasons. For starters, Christianity was illegal at this point. If he or his brother were caught worshiping God, at best they would be thrown in jail, but more likely the punishment was death by crucifixion, beheading, drowning, or starvation. Moreover, since their profession was well known, it was difficult for them to keep their christianity hidden. Damian was happy that it was impossible to hide his relationship with Jesus. He took to heart what Jesus says in the Gospel of Matthew, “Do not light your lamp and put it under a bushel but on a lamp stand.” Our faith, no matter how prestigious our profession, is not meant to be privatized. We are meant to share the good news regardless of what the public thinks about it. Cosmas and Damian were caught by Roman authorities, prevented from practicing medicine, and pressured to renounce their faith. They refused and were decapitated publically for all to see. Though Ancient Rome is a thing of the past, Cosmas and Damian are still venerated today and their names are said in the Eucharistic Prayer in every Mass around the world. They show us that courage and sacrifice are always required to follow Jesus. Saint Damian, pray for us.