Daily Devotions
Heroes
Title: Heroes
Reading for October 24: Luke 5-6
Weekly reading for October 21-27: Hebrews 10-13
Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1-2
My maternal grandfather, Gunnar Magnuson, passed from this life over 20 years ago (1997). My paternal grandfather, Robert Maxson, left us 15 years ago (2003), and yet both of these men still motivate me to be a better disciple, husband, and father. They were different in so many ways, and yet each one in their own unique way helped shape and influence me in profound ways. To this day, when I think of my grandfathers I am brought to tears.
Heroes matter to us. We all have them. They inspire us. They motivate us to do things we wouldn't normally do. Maybe that's why the Hebrew writer spends forty verses (the longest chapter in Hebrews) to review no less than fourteen men and women of faith (and many more unnamed ones, vs 33-38).
Yes, heroes matter. Even after they die, they still matter to us (Heb 11:4). I've got a long list of heroes like my Papa and most of them are no longer with us. In some ways, they matter even more after their deaths. Jesus, our greatest hero lived on this earth two thousand years ago, and his influence is still making a profound difference in our lives. Indeed, he is the founder (author, source, captain, pioneer,
Take a moment to think about the five most influential people in your life. Meditate on how their lives have made a difference in yours. Then thank God for them.
Father, thank you for blessing our lives with heroes who make us want to do more and to be better than we are. Thank you for Jesus, the greatest hero of all!
