The Fellowship of the Unashamed

For awhile I've had this quote taped to my wall. And since we're doing a door-to-door mission this weekend, I find it still motivating to read. I'm not sure of its origin, but I think it was written by an African priest martyr. (I hope to confirm this.) Anyway, check it out and see if it doesn't make you think of Braveheart or something. :)

Actually, that makes me think. Maybe what this country needs is a few more martyrs. It's pretty easy to be culturally Catholic when it doesn't really challenge how you live. But try and sell cheap, watered-down Christianity to a martyr and see if you don't mock everything for which he/she stands.

"I am part of the fellowship of the unashamed. The die has been cast. I have stepped over the line. The decision has been made. I am a disciple of Jesus Christ.

I won't look back, let up, slow down, back away, or be still. My past is redeemed, my present makes sense, and my future is secure.

I'm finished and done with low living, sight-walking, small planning, smooth knees, colorless dreams, tame visions, mundane talking, cheap giving, and dwarfed goals. My pace is set, my gait is fast, my goal is heaven, my road is narrow, my way is rough, my companions few, my Guide reliable, my mission clear.

I won't give up, back up, let up, or shut up until I've preached up, prayed up, paid up, stored up, and stayed up for the cause of Christ.

I must go until He returns, give until I drop, preach until all know, and work until He comes. And when He comes, He will have no problem recognizing me. My colors will be clear. "For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ."

Why do I love this so much? Because it motivates me to live a life better than mediocrity. Legionaries of Christ founder Fr. Marcial Maciel says it beautifully:

"Detest mediocrity in your dedication to Jesus Christ, detest it with everything in you. And when our Lord calls you one day to have a direct influence on the spirit of future generations of men and women of the Kingdom, do everything in your power to make them detest mediocrity and be people of absolute dedication. Clearly and energetically remind them that a total dedication to Jesus Christ is impossible for those who seek themselves." (Letter of Fr. Marcial Maciel, LC, 1949)

Come with me. Be the leader for which the world longs. Be the person you want to be. Join the fellowship.