J.V. vs. Varsity: If you train at the J.V. level, you will only be able to play at the J.V. level. If you want to play at the Varsity level, then you have to train at the Varsity level. I played J.V. basketball, and we lost every game. So I took up other sports and hobbies. Now when I play basketball, I can never get beyond a J.V. level or worse. Life doesn’t give us options. Life will sooner or later come at us with Varsity force. Those who train at the J.V. level in their moral and discerning lives, will only be able to face life when it comes full force with a J.V. level response. Why do so many people get overwhelmed with life? Why do so many fall into addictive habits of drinking, drugs, and sex? Why do so many simply give up? It doesn’t have to be this way
Pope John Paul taught throughout his years as Pope that we don’t have to be afraid of life. When you watch someone who trains at the Varsity level play a Varsity game, they might lose a game, but not the season. They actually enter into the competition with an enthusiasm and passion. How do you face life? How do you want to face life? Do you ask God for an easier life or do you ask God for the grace to match the mission He has for you.
For Discernment: True discernment means willing to act out of strength and not out of weakness. It means being willing to choose the difficult. It means seeking the best and not just that which is acceptable or good or better. Ask God for the courage to train at the Varsity level, and allow Him to lead you into the Varsity competition of life with Him at your side. You may lose some games, but you won’t lose the season.
Scripture: I Corinthians 9.24-27: “Athletes deny themselves all sorts of things. They do this to win a crown of leaves that withers, but we a crown that is imperishable.”
Quotes: Mother Teresa: “Lord, I don’t ask for an easy life. If you need something done which is difficult, then give me the grace to give my life totally for you and for others.” and “Of my own free will, dear Jesus, I shall follow You wherever You shall go in search of souls at any cost to myself and out of pure love for You.” “There is no age so difficult or corrupt that saints can’t thrive.”
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