Heroes

The world today is always looking for heroes. And invariably they pick the world's heroes and not God's. The danger in that is obvious. Our heroes are our role models. We consciously or unconsciously admire their values, their lifestyles, their goals.

But who are God's heroes?'

The widow who has practically nothing, but willingly gives the practically nothing to God to be used to help the poor. She knows that her needs will be met from His resources one day at a time.

The husband or wife who loves unconditionally the one they promised God that they would love until death parts them. Nothing life threw at them was greater than their love, could undermine their vow to God and the one He had given them to love in His place.

The missionary who gives up his life that others may know of the One who gave His life for them.

The one God has blessed with resources but gives those resources to help others in such a way that no one ever knows he was the one who gave.

The little child who is physically or mentally handicapped but boldly tells everyone the most important thing he does know: the love of Jesus for him and the whole world.

The parent who faithfully prays for the child that has gone astray waiting expectantly for his return, not to a relationship with him or her alone, but to a renewed relationship with their loving eternal Father.

The man or woman who faithfully serves behind the scenes doing all those things that anyone could do, but few have the humility and love for God to do. They not only get no recognition, they would be embarrassed if you gave it to them. They serve Him willingly.

Who are your heroes? Who are those whom you pattern your life after? If they are not walking in the footsteps of Jesus, they are not heroes. And you know what the saddest thing of all is? We see those people, God's heroes, and we notice their deep joy, their contentment, their gentleness toward others, their unshakeable spirit, and we still seek heroes elsewhere. May God grant you and me the wisdom to notice God's heroes and emulate their lives of love for God.
And may we, also, be able to echo Paul's testimony: "Be an imitator of me as I am of Christ." If someone is looking up to you, watching you, where will you lead them if they choose to follow in your footsteps?