Strive to be a hero

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.’” Joshua 1:9 NIV

In an article titled “Pastor donates kidney to parishioner, running buddy” posted Monday by WSBTV, it was reported that Cobb County Pastor James Slick donated his kidney to his friend Jack Abbott, a once avid runner who served as the course director for the Peachtree Road Race until 2019. Now a little over a year later, Abbott and Slick are back to doing what they love, crossing finish lines together. Dr. Clark Kensinger, a multi-organ transplant surgeon with Piedmont Healthcare, said stories like Abbott and Slick’s inspire people to make similar sacrifices.“When donors or potential donors hear these stories, it really makes an impact on being able to find as many patients as possible to come forward for you to potentially be a donor,” Kensinger said. “We are forever grateful for how much of a sacrifice they make to save another person’s life through kidney transplantation, so they are truly heroes”

And you know, when it comes to being a hero or person who is admired or idealized for courage, outstanding qualities, or noble qualities, the Bible gives us the story of Joshua who was a hero of the faith. Though he had seen the giants of the land of Canaan, Joshua heeded God’s command to “be strong and courageous” and stood strong in his belief that God would deliver that land into the hand of the Israelites, even when nearly all others were against him. And because of his extreme courage, faith and godly lifestyle, others were influenced to live for God as well. Do you just love that or what? 

So strive to be a hero to someone today my friend. Have the courage to do whatever it is God is calling you to, no matter how frightening it might seem, remembering that “God will be with you wherever you go.” Your fearless action will not only benefit that person but encourage others to be courageous and self sacrificial as well, which will undoubtedly influence the lost to seek Christ. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for the many heroes like Joshua and Pastor Slick that serve as examples of what it means to love others enough to take action. Help us to live lives marked by courage as well Lord so that others would be inspired to do the same. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!