Having Heroes

Some people have a problem with heroes. I don’t have a problem with it.

This morning whilst minding my own business – honest – I came across information that apparently earlier this year Batman celebrated 75 years of existence. Growing up my brother and I loved super heroes. We collected some of the comic books, we watched the cartoons and even now we’re partial to perusing the occasional super hero movie when it’s available on various media.

What I like about heroes is how they endeavour to paint a picture for us of the very best we could be. We love them because they exhibit something positive about humanity, they radiate something that we should all aspire to. Even if it’s a dark character like Batman, his quest for justice and the application of his incredible brains and resources is appealing. There’s something about a hero that makes them outstanding and admirable.

I don’t mind heroes at all. Indeed I’ve dedicated my life to following and pursuing a hero. The difference between the hero I devote my life to and others I’ve enjoyed in the past whether it’s Dr. Who, SpiderMan or Batman, is that the hero I follow is real, not fictional. He also has amazing brains and remarkable resources – but shoed Himself in human form to live a life that we might see what it is to be truly human and truly in touch with our position as being made in the image of God.

Creative and imaginative though the exploits of other heroes may be, there is nothing to compare with the eternal exploits of my hero. That He invites me to join Him in those exploits in every day life in how I relate to my wife, how I engage with my children, how I conduct myself at work and what I invest myself in beyond is the richest most exciting aspect of following this hero.

So I can well understand why people have their heroes – it’s probably worthwhile having one too though I suggest you spend time getting to know the real Hero of Heroes.

For His Name’s Sake

Shalom

C. L. J. Dryden