The Making Of A Hero

Heroes come in all shapes in sizes, and often the definition depends on culture, background and sometimes even religious perspective.  Dietrich Bonhoeffer spoke out against Nazism in Germany.  Helen Keller overcame both deaf and blindness, becoming an advocate for these disabilities. Thomas Jefferson was instrumental in the American revolution and Winston Churchill inspired Britain during their battle against Nazi Germany.  Harriet Tubman became active in aiding slaves to freedom and Joan of Arc, a simple peasant girl, led the French army into battle! These are only a few from a “list of famous courageous people who sacrificed their own comfort to stand up for principles of human dignity and liberty.”1

What makes a hero? When I hear the word ‘hero’ I can’t help but think of the 9/11 attacks nearly 7 years ago!  Much was said about those firefighters and emergency personnel who honestly performed heroic acts.  They worked tirelessly and selflessly to save as many victims as possible during that horrible disaster.  And as brave and courageous as all these men and women were, the truth is our firefighters, police and military personnel do this day in and day out, and hardly is any recognition given.

Jesus is rarely described as a hero.  Yet wouldn’t He exemplify the word to the greatest degree?!  Jesus was a man who went against what was traditionally taught and against the greatest evils of this world.  He went so far as to defy death with His resurrection.  What mere man can make that claim?  He set the stage for the opportunity of change in the right direction.

So the question bears asking.  Can anyone be a hero?  It is said happiness is staying focused on your mission, not your results.  We can be happy when we are humble, gentle, and patient.  When you add goodness, knowledge, self control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness and love, while thinking about what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent or praiseworthy, we have the perfect recipe for happiness!  

When we feel good about who we are because we are focused on the task before us, even if it seems dangerous to any observers, we can be heroic, even if others do not view it in the same light.  

Sometimes the task before us is to grow spiritually.  That requires the dedication of a hero, as well! It takes faithful determination to search the scriptures with diligence, while staying focused on the message.  

I encourage you to consider your heroic actions!  As you read The Word and consider what it is saying to you, personally, you have the opportunity to grow spiritually, giving you the guidance you desire.  You can become enabled do heroic deeds for your family, friends and neighbors, whether it’s to deliver a meal, share a hug or smile, teach children in a classroom, or perform some other act of kindness.  

1  https://www.biographyonline.net/people/famous/courageous.html