Our Heroes

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, Philippians 3:20 

  

  I grew up watching the American actor Michael Landon on television. He starred as “Little Joe” on the TV Western “Bonanza”. Then throughout my childhood Mr. Landon starred as the father on “Little House On The Prairie”. Yet later he was an angel on “Highway To Heaven”. Michael Landon played a heroic character in many television episodes. Yet few know that he saved his suicidal mother’s life when she tried to drown herself. He was a hero on screen and off. 

  We all need heroes and ethical characters to emulate. I am old enough to have been blessed by having many such characters to view on television, and in everyday life I was surrounded by people in church that held fast to the Christian ethics and values that are becoming rare in our culture today. What my generation took for granted, too few young people will ever experience when it comes to Judeo-Christian values in popular culture and as examples in their lives. 

  The greatest hero that ever lived was Jesus Christ. He set an example we all should emulate. He sacrificed Himself for humanity. While on earth Jesus fed, healed, restored, and delivered people in dire circumstances. He also paved the way to eternal life for us all through His death and sacrifice. This is a “Highway To Heaven” indeed!  

  I thank God I had heroes on television and all around me during my childhood and youth. How important it is today to be real life heroes and good examples of the Christian life to the younger generations around us. How we live, and what we do, matters more than we realize. 

  Be a hero to those around you. Live a faithful loving life. Help those needing a hand up from discouragement and despair. Depend upon the Lord to lead you in a way that will make others want to emulate the Jesus in you! 

  Prayer: Dear Lord, forgive us for the times we have not lived up to the virtuous life You called us to. Help us to be better examples going forward. Help us to be like You in all things Jesus. Amen.