By Jason Godin
Dec 19, 2011
Perhaps you’ve had the privilege of associating with an ordinary man who acts seemingly and seamlessly in the most extraordinary ways. You’ve come to consider him a great man, a treasured role model, maybe even seeing him as your hero. He brings an optimism tempered with truth to a world plagued by pessimism and false expectations. He shares inspiring words and acts with great charity toward others who take selfishly. He provides indescribable support and comfort in what may seem the most unbearable moments of life.
Have you ever asked what motivates him? If he is a man of deep faith, regardless of whether you call him a family member or close friend, chances are he has made some tough decisions in his life, but one stands out. He has said “yes” to God at one point in his life – and continues to say “yes” each day. And it isn’t just a decision made in the fleeting heat of the moment. It is an affirmation which enters constantly into every thought that he contemplates, factors into every decision that he makes, and influences every action that he takes.
Keep in mind that he isn’t a saint. He’s the first to admit and remind you as much. Yet, in unison with the communion of saints he professes belief in if he is Catholic, he knows where he came from and to whom he is striving toward. It is the Lord.
Hans Urs Von Balthasar once observed that “receiving and letting in need not be passive; in relation to God, they are, when done in faith, always supreme activity.” The man who says “yes” to God finds himself constantly relating to people. He becomes a “people person” who volunteers his time, talents, and treasure. He stands with others united in opposition to the individuals and institutions that elevate hedonism and relativism. He defends the faith from those with little or no faith. He values and protects life from the moment of conception until natural death. And, with silent steadfastness, he stands in uniform for his country in its hour of greatest need.