Lessons in Mentorship, Conviction and Action from Iron Eagle

1986 began with another promising year for movies. One of the films released, Iron Eagle, follows Doug Masters, a teenage boy who risked everything to rescue his father, whom the government failed to liberate. He didn’t do it alone.

With the help of a legendary pilot, Chappy, Doug went through training and embarked on a secret mission to save his father from execution.

The movie gives us messages of faith that can be cultivated today.

Using Our Talents God Gave Us

Chappy tells Doug, "God doesn't give people talents that he doesn't want people to use. And he gave you The Touch. It's a power inside of you, down there where you keep your guts, boy". Chappy acknowledges the potential Doug shows. At the same time, he wants to see him use that talent.

For us, God has given each of us unique abilities that are meant to be used for his greater glory.

Faith and Action

The film highlights that belief must be accompanied by action. When faced with the impossible task of rescuing his father, Doug demonstrates a childlike, fearless faith that pushes him to take risks.

It suggests that faith is not passive but requires one to step out, even when others doubt, to "right a wrong".

Every day, Catholics are called to put their faith in action, whether it involves serving the marginalized, those in need, or even the living and the dead.

Mentorship

At some point in our lives, we need a good mentor. Doug found it in Chappy. Chappy discovers the potential in Doug that others have overlooked. He would use the neglect of others who passed Doug up to highlight the importance of guidance, trust, and fostering the potential in others.

Overcoming Fear

Doug had to train as a way to prepare for the mission. Without the training, the movie would’ve been a flop.

Catholics overcome fear every day by always stepping out of their comfort zone to boldly proclaim the faith.

St. Ignatius of Loyola reminds us, "God's love calls us to move beyond fear. We ask God for the courage to abandon ourselves unreservedly, so that we might be molded by God's grace, even as we cannot see where that path may lead us."

Iron Eagle reminds us to find the right mentor to guide us and help us grow. It teaches us that the first step in overcoming fear is stepping out with courage. Our faith is more than what we profess; it’s placed into action. God has given us gifts and talents that are to be used for his glory.

The movie is a solid 5 out of 5.