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?”

Francis Xavier lived from 1506-1552, and helped Ignatius of Loyola find the Society of Jesus. Francis Xavier, also a very learned man, noticed that people in the highest universities were losing their way. He saw that if learning is not ordered to the love of God, disaster is inevitable. Moreover, Francis Xavier was disturbed by the moral laxity of the masses and the selfishness of those around him. Knowing that Jesus was the only answer, Francis Xavier dedicated his life to God by entering the Society of Jesus. Known as the missionary to the East, Francis Xavier learned several languages and was sent to India and Japan to preach the Gospel to people that had never heard it. He gave up a life of affluence to heed the great commission to baptize all nations “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” (Matthew 28) The zeal of Saint Francis Xavier shows us that baptism and the sacramental life, which is dispensed through the Catholic Church, are essential for heaven. Saint Francis Xavier, pray for us!