The (New) Patriot Way

“The Patriot Way.” A credo. A myth. A philosophy. A system. A swagger. A mantra. A lifestyle.

However you define it, “The Patriot Way,” seems to be an effective formula that runs counter to most. It’s a firm molding of a team-first mentality—a gridiron-gestalt philosophy, a model fostered under coach Bill Belichick, in which the New England Patriots have copyrighted on their way to becoming the NFL's model franchise of the new millennium.

New England's consistent run of success for the past decade is about players buying into the team concept. It’s about being coachable. It’s about doing things professional and private. It's about sticking to a plan, even if the results aren't immediate. It’s about sacrificing short-term gains for long-term goals. It’s about being firm in your decision. It’s about doing what’s right, because it’s the right thing to do…

…And as the Patriot’s await another opportunity to raise The Lombardi Trophy high, I can’t help but think of what may be “The Christian Way.”

The Gospel of John says – this is Jesus speaking, “All people will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” If victories are the attribute and backbone of “The Patriot Way,” then love should be the defining characteristic and foundation of “The Christian Way.”

Quite frankly, at times, “The Patriot Way” seems much more obtainable than “The Christian Way.” It’s not always easy loving your neighbor—especially when they blare the music at all times of night, and whose dog seems to like your lawn much better than their own. It’s not always easy loving your co-worker who steals your ideas, credit, and promotion. It’s not always easy looking the other way when another driver takes ‘your’ coveted parking spot at the grocery store. And when the proverbial rubber meets the road, it’s not at all easy to forgive and love when a drunk driver suddenly mows down your child or when a thief breaks in and steals your property and your peace or when your spouse suddenly chooses to leave you for another. Heck, at times, it’s not always easy to love your friends and family who you like, but as Christians we’re called to love…and love even our enemies. This mandate isn’t optional but the standard for “The Christian Way.”

In closing, though there are things to learn from Belichick and the Patriots that are both honorable and applicable, may we take our calls from the playbook of the Bible which is both virtuous and transformational.

Editorial