May 13, 2020

The dictionary definition of hero as: “A person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding achievements, or noble qualities.”

For most here in the United States, a hero is a Michael Jordan, who can dunk a basketball, a Tom Brady, who can throw a football a mile, or an Arnold Palmer, who can shoot a remarkable round of golf. My heroes are different.

My heroes are the healthcare workers risking their lives to keep us safe; the truck drivers delivering food to grocery stores; and the grocery store stockers keeping food on shelves. My heroes are those who wear masks to keep others safe, those who stand six feet away, and those who wash their hands. My heroes are the delivery drivers who bring packages to my house, the mailman, and all first responders. My heroes are the ones that make a tangible, measurable difference in a world where the coronavirus and fear seem to dominate. My heroes matter.

In explaining to the Christians in Philippi what it means to be a follower of Christ, Paul said: “Let each of you look not to your own interests, but to the interests of others.” (Philippians 2:4) For me, those that follow Paul’s guidance are the true heroes of this world.

You don’t need to wear a cape or be a phenomenal athlete to be a hero. All you have to do is be intentional about making this world a better place. The moment you make a positive difference in someone’s life, you become a hero. Also, you make God smile. That’s a very good thing.

Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, help me to see past myself. Help me to see what I can do to lift someone’s burden, ease someone’s pain, or bring your light into someone’s darkness. Give me wisdom to know what’s right, strength to live out your call, and the resolve to see it through. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

For all of you who are making a difference, on behalf of all the rest of us, I humbly offer you our thanks. What you do matters. You are a hero.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.

Tom Robbins