What makes a hero

When I was young, several caped heroes entertained us on the old black and white television that was the center of our home. Superman and Mighty Mouse flew across our screen with supernatural powers, saving some distressed damsel. Batman and Robin were the caped crusaders fighting crime and bringing justice for the innocent.
These make-believe heroes were part of a bygone era that captivated the imagination of many children.
As make-believe and caped heroes fall into the pages of time, we gain the wisdom needed to recognize the actions of a true hero. Heroes are not fictional characters created for entertainment but individuals who, in one way or another, impact our lives for the better. Often, heroes are those who are a constant presence in our everyday lives.
My hero, Dad, often worked two or three jobs to keep the house warm and food on the table. Yet, with his busy schedule, he still managed to have a memorable time with each of his children. He built boats and taught us how to fish. He built campers and showed us the magic of campfires and the beauty of creation. Daddy stood 10 feet tall in the eyes of his little girl.
Mom, a hero in her own right, busied herself with a household of children, managing chores, calming arguments, and filling our lives with special events. She kept us together, moving in one direction, pouring her heart into every aspect of our lives, including the family pets. I will never forget her late-night prayer, “Lord, please don’t let this little one die in my hands,” as she performed CPR on a bottled-fed kitten. My kitten lived a long, happy life, and Mom was definitely hero material.
Heroes! Recently, while walking, I witnessed an older man and his wife struggle to put a heavy device in their car. Suddenly, the man stumbled backward, losing his balance. He was sure to fall beneath the weight of his load when a stranger stepped forward to catch the man and steady the situation. “Great save!” I exclaimed, and the stranger replied, “Not all heroes wear a cape.” There is a lot of truth to his words.
Heroes are ordinary people who step up and make a difference in the lives of those around them. Our soldiers on foreign shores, firefighters, law enforcement, and first responders do not wear capes, yet they keep us safe by repeatedly running into danger. Our medical personnel give up sleep to care for the sick, while our teachers often give a much-needed warm hug to a child living in a cold and distant world. None of these heroic people wear a cape, but all serve selflessly.
In the teachings of Jesus, we are all called to serve, to be a hero, as we find our purpose in Him, following His ways (Mark 8:34), with the understanding that giving is a greater blessing than receiving (Acts 20:35). When we serve, our acts should not be done selfishly but with a humble heart full of love. (Galatians 5:13). Be a hero for someone today.
Heroism is not difficult to find. It is often a simple act of prayer to the Father on behalf of another. It is a kind word that heals a broken heart or a steady hand, giving courage to one’s ability to succeed. Heroism is treating others how we wish to be treated (Matthew 7:12). When we do simple acts of kindness, we find healing within.

1 John 3:18: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

Cheryl Mixon-Cruce is Pastor of Ochlockonee Bay United Methodist Church and Sopchoppy United Methodist Church.