October 26

St. Peter of Alcantara

Jesus passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, "Lord, will only a few people be saved?" He answered them, "Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough. After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door, then will you stand outside knocking and saying, 'Lord, open the door for us.' He will say to you in reply, 'I do not know where you are from.' And you will say, 'We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.' Then he will say to you, 'I do not know where (you) are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!' And there will be wailing and grinding of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God and you yourselves cast out. And people will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in the kingdom of God. For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last”  (Luke 13: 22-30).

This is a passage perfect for SportsLeader – “ … many will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough …” In other words, many will not be virtuous enough. Sinful vice and  Heaven don’t mix. Just like you can’t decide to do 500 pushups and do them easily if you have not been training. It takes work and effort. Are you working toward Heaven? Will you be strong enough? Of course we need God’s grace as well and He will always help us if we ask.

Lord, I want to go to Heaven. Please give me the strength to live a life of virtue.

Impact Sports: When the game is on the line, am I always ready to give 110%?

Impact Life: Have I ever invited my friends to attend Mass with me?