Heroes

Throughout history various men and women have been saddled with the title, “hero”. Often we speak of them in such terms that places them upon a pedestal. Yet when we look at them, most if not all of these heroes have significant character flaws and at some point in their lives have made a terrible decision. Name someone and you will find a serious issue.

Even in Scripture the heroes of the faith are flawed individuals, and some with deep serious flaws. Least we dismiss the flaws as being a pre-faith state and loose perspective, Scripture makes it clear that their flaws and misjudgments take place while they are in a state of obedient faith. What we have is real people being used by God.

Many people who are heroes are ordinary people, people like me and you who find themselves at a junction where they are confronted with a demanding challenge, a challenge that they address and meet with perseverance and courage. They become reminders of the human potential and hope.

For those of faith, they have the Holy Spirit to enhance their courage and sustain them. Such individuals become examples to others of faith of how God grants abundant grace to us in such moments.

I have recently met a couple who are examples of this divine process. This couple are newly commissioned officers. Just over three weeks after arriving in their appointment their first child was born. They found the Corps’ cash flow was stretched to the point where in mid summer they looked at not being able to meet payroll. A few weeks later, he was told that he has cancer. While the prognosis of recovery, the surgery and 15 weeks of chemotherapy means his involvement at the Corps and assisting with the Christmas program (assisted over 1,800 children last year) is limited. Then into that mix add that their community service person is leaving mid October as she has just taken a position with the State.

Yes, DHQ is providing extra support and will do so well into the New Year. Though they are being assisted with the seasonal issues, our main concern is to help them as individuals. Watching and listening to them as they coolly, methodically and intentionally go about their duties and planning stirs my heart. While some would bemoan their situation and become lost, this couple’s faith and spirit of joy are high. Each day they are taking hold of each day and task with confidence. While like many of us, they would not consider themselves as heroes or want to be called such, they are being victorious in how they are handling the situation. They are an example to all of us in handling a confluence of difficulties.

May God’s grace and power continue to be with them in a mighty manner…may they have an extra portion of God’s love and grace.