Faith and the Cubs

One thing everyone knew about me growing up was my love for the Chicago Cubs. No matter where I was during the summer, you could always find me with a Cubbie blue hat and some variation of a Cubs jersey. I am just old enough to remember the 2003 NLCS in which the Lovable Losers missed the World Series by a couple outs. For the record, I don't blame Bartman. Apart from last year's unexpected gift, it's been a rough stretch. However I find our rallying cry very fitting with the virtues of faith and hope. "Wait till next year." A saying that many a Cubs fan has heard growing up. After we inevitably fail (either early or late in the season), Cubs fans are always optimistic that next year will be the year. Even after 108 years, we still think it's possible to have a complete turnaround and reach that allusive World Series.

That's how I tend to think of holiness. It is easy to fail through sin and just as easy to admit defeat. Why should I put the effort in knowing I am likely going to end up in the same spot? Well that never stopped the Cubs and their loyal (me included) fans. They continued to wear their Cubbie blue, bear the insults, and ignore the Chicago White Sox 2005 World Series win. Stubbornness could be one way to describe it. But when it comes to spiritual fortitude, we have some special help. We have God's graces to give us hope. Through forgiveness in Confession, the spiritual nourishment of the Eucharist, and the uplifting graces of the rest of the sacraments, it's like getting the top free agent in the off season but better! Left on our own, we wouldn't stand a chance. However, God truly gives us the help we need. We must learn to accept it and allow His help to let us grow in holiness.

Stay faithful, as a sinner and a Cubs fan I know this can be hard. But with God's help we can conquer sinful tendencies and see my Cubs take home a World Series trophy. Try your hardest, while I keep petitioning Pope Francis to make being a Cubs fan a plenary indulgence to shave some time off of Purgatory.