Heroes

Quietly we slipped into the auditorium and found a seat. The service was already in progress. I looked around to see if I recognized any other heart transplant recipients or their families. The group was small so it was easy for me to “check everyone out.” I didn’t recognize anyone.

The speaker began by welcoming all the transplant recipients to the reunion. Because the theme for the reunion this year was Heroes, his remarks revolved around the subject of heroes. The Lone Ranger, Gene Autry, Roy Rogers, Superman, Superwoman, and Flash Gordon were all mentioned as heroes from the past.

Heroes from the present included our military, firemen, paramedics, and transplant patients. The speaker noted that transplant recipients—like easily recognized heroes—have an uncommon courage to persevere in difficult, unknown, unpredictable situations. As he continued to speak, my mind wandered to a mini-poster I have on my computer. It says, “Courage isn’t having the strength to go on. It’s going on when you don’t have the strength.” I have seen RJ live this type of courage this past year. In spite of rejection, a deflated lung, a broken hip, and allergic reactions to medicines, I’ve watched as he has literally pulled himself off of a bed and walked…when the world told him he probably wouldn’t walk again. He has pressed on in spite of difficulty and illness.

My mind continued to replay the challenges and miracles we’d experienced this past year. It was a kaleidoscope of pictures, experiences, and emotions. And then Bonnie, a precious single mom, rearing her children alone popped into my thoughts. She was a perfect example of hero to me. Other “every day” heroes flooded my mind. Our granddaughter, Lindsay challenged by dyslexia but persevering to overcome it; little Emma and Hannah diagnosed with childhood diabetes and at the same time determined to be “normal” little girls; Jarrod valiantly battling cancer and continuing to work in the sound booth at church; and my sister, Elizabeth resolving not to allow the threat of possible reoccurring cancer to fill her days with fear.

Ordinary people doing extraordinary things are all around us. Look around you. School teachers, nurses, pastors, farmers, clerks, electricians, and so many others may be facing heartaches and pain, but choosing not to complain, they press on in daily responsibilities that would overwhelm the best of us. And I applaud them! They encourage me and spur me on.

But my favorite hero of all times, the one I long to be like, is Jesus. His love, compassion, mercy, forgiveness, patience, wisdom and insight cannot be equaled. While they tortured Him, He loved them. While they ridiculed Him and spat upon Him, He loved them. When they drove spikes into His feet and hands, He loved them. When they mocked Him while He hung on the Cross, He loved them. Love held Him on that Cross. When He raised His head and looked at those around the Cross, He didn’t just see those who mocked Him, but also His followers. But I believe His view went further. I think He looked out over the ages and saw a world of hurting people. He saw you and me. His love encompassed you and me! And that love cannot be ignored or forgotten. It demands a response.

On that day as Jesus hung on the Cross, some shrugged their shoulders and went about their business. Others hung their heads and rushed home for fear of reprisal from the Romans. But a few stayed. Even though they didn’t understand all that was being accomplished that day, even though they were weeping and scared, they stood at the foot of the Cross refusing to leave. I wonder, what would you have done?

I pray that I would have stood and tried to comfort My Lord with my presence. And with all my heart that’s what I believe is needed today. Believers must stand up for Jesus, His principles. We must lovingly proclaim His truth to a hurting, confused world. Will you join me? If God’s people who are called by His name, will humble themselves and pray and repent, He will hear them, forgive them, and heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14).

Together we can make a difference.

I’m praying for you.

Edwina