There’s an interesting topic we discussed in our bible study last night; what does it mean to be a modern-day hero? Well, eliminate the “modern day” element from this and simply stick to the notion of what it takes to be a hero. See, I think many of us grow up with the interest and hope that others will exist that can live up to unrealistic/unideal situations, while passing them with flying colors. Inevitably, it seem as if every hero is destined to meet some sort of failure or weakness. Whether it is kryptonite or the inability to stay faithful to their spouse, many would-be heroes seem to meet their demise at some point.
Looking at the “Mighty men of valor” as discussed in 1 Chronicles, we read about the warriors King David surrounded himself with in times of battle. These were truly fierce, hardened men who would wo anything to better serve their country and their king. Reading of their exploits, it puts the movie 300 to shame. A single soldier slaying over 900 enemies in a single battle. King David, with his lifetime kill count in excess of 22,000 people. These are warriors.
There were two things that I noticed about these particular men. The first was that they created opportunities to be heroic. When others were running far from the battle, they were the first ones to stay behind and fight. When others would surrender or give up, they held their ground and were used as tools of the LORD to achieve victory. In almost every story, the last words were “And the LORD wrought forth a mighty victory that day”. This is your day.
Second, these heros were loyal first to their LORD and second to their king. They did not consider the cost or value of their own life; they simply saw the necessity to stand strong and fight. Glory.
Sometimes we go to a movie and see a hero on screen. We hope they will be able to artificially live up to some expectation we have for what it means to be a hero. However, they are simply a well-paid character on the screen. The hero, and the opportunity to be one, is right where you are. Heros are not born; they are created and developed over time. They are not often recognized by many, but the few people who look up to them as as hero will forever be impacted by the decisions of their life.
My challenge to you is to step above the ordinary; reach for the extraordinary. Strive to do the impossible. Better yourself as a person. Walk with integrity. Treat others with respect that goes above and beyond what situations normally call for. Don’t create unnecessary work for others. Be faithful to your family, spouse, and children. Regular men and women can do this once they are married. A hero will love his children before they are born by being respectful and walking upright to lead a life that he/she can one day point back to for their children to follow after.
Are you a hero?
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