Perhaps you remember, in high school or college, trying out for the varsity or junior varsity baseball, track, tennis, or football team. The competition was keen, you tried your level best, and finally the tryouts were concluded. A day or so later the bulletin board in the athletic department told the story. You stood there, and you read the list of those who made the team. Either your name was there or it was conspicuously absent. Joy or disappointment prevailed.  Saint Paul is speaking to each of us this morning and is saying without equivocation: "Congratulations, you've made the team; the race has already begun."

When did we make the team? In that defining moment when the sign of the cross was traced on our forehead and breast and our beloved pastor spoke the life-changing words: "I b…