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?”

Thomas More lived from 1478 to 1535 in England. Thomas More is the patron saint of lawyers and he was the most decorated social, political, and philosophical author in his day. Chosen by king Henry VIII for his intellect, Thomas More also served Henry VIII as Lord High Chancellor of England from October 1529 to May 1532. Apart from King, this was the most coveted position in all the land.

More’s time as Chancellor came to a crashing end when he refused to approve of Henry VIII’s decision to separate England from the Catholic Church. Henry VIII, blinded by lust and rage, refused to obey the Pope’s decision regarding his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. Essentially, Henry started his own Church and required every priest, bishop, and citizen to sign allegiance to him under the Oath of Supremacy. If one refused to sign, he was put to death. Thomas More, despite being tortured, imprisoned, and bribed, refused to sign the oath. After refusing to take the Oath of Supremacy, More was convicted of treason and executed. Prior to being beheaded, More said: "I die the King's good servant, but God's first" . Thomas More shows us just how true and demanding Our Lord’s words are. Jesus said to Thomas More, and he says to you and me, “What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, but to lose his soul.” (Mark 8:36) Thomas More renounced all worldly fame and protection because he refused to turn his back on God. Would you do the same? Why or why not? Saint Thomas More, pray for us!