A Hero in the Making?
“If it wasn’t for people . . .” we’d all miss something big in our lives, like heroes. Let’s continue to discuss people, people who do “great” things, build “great” buildings, and bring “greatness” into our lives.
I suppose most of us have someone in their life that they consider a hero, however that might be defined. Maybe it is your mom or dad, sister or brother, or a well-known hero like one of our local policeman, a teacher, coach, or even someone who has been awarded the Medal of Honor, the nation’s highest recognition of a military hero. I know you have a hero in your life, we all have heroes.
I have a hero, his name is Dick Toliver. He was fighter pilot and he flew F-4 Phantoms “downtown” Hanoi during the Vietnam conflict. For those who don’t know, when pilots went “downtown” every imaginable thing that could destroy an aircraft came your way. I could say a lot about Dick (his inner being is what makes him a real hero), but I’ll save that for another time because I have another hero I want to discuss in this Blog. He is a hero that nobody but a privileged few will ever know. His name is Joshua; well that’s not his real name, but Joshua will do and Joshua is a hero’s name anyway.
Joshua is a young man, 17 years old, who has been fighting brain cancer since he was nine. Can you imagine, since he was nine. It just hasn’t been easy. But Joshua refuses to give up even though some think his young life may be coming to an end soon. He’s my hero and inspiration.
I visited Joshua the other day; it was a privilege and did he ever encourage my faith. Even though his life is predicted to be short, Joshua continues his school studies at home, cordially sees visitors, and he remains alert and engaged whenever it is physically possible. He hangs in there, never gives up. What he told me was an inspiration, a statement of faith. He said that he was OK with whatever might come to pass because he knew that the Lord had him in His hand. Whatever would come his way, yes he was OK. That is my kind of hero.
None of us will live forever, you, me, or Joshua, but we’ll all live on into eternity. The question then becomes what did you leave for those coming behind once you’re gone? Joshua leaves something for someone every day. But the LARGER question is where and with whom will you spend eternity? Joshua knows; so do I. Do you know? Pretty important. But rest assured; there is a Hero who has already given his life for you so you can remain forever with Him. His name is Jesus.
I pray daily for Joshua; to continue the fight. He will triumph whatever the circumstances. Perhaps you would join me and make this hero part of your life with your prayers. And get to know the real Hero; accept His invitation to join Him for all eternity. You can’t go wrong.
