What is a Hero?
Theme: What is a Hero?
Quote: “Ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country.” (John F. Kennedy, January 20, 1961)
As you read this, the 81st anniversary of D-Day is near—a time to remember the courage and sacrifice of those who gave everything for freedom.
I recently completed the Lakeland Police Foundation Fallen Heroes Memorial 5K run. At the finish line stood signs honoring the Lakeland Police officers who laid down their lives in service. A somber yet powerful reminder of true heroism.
But what is a hero? Our minds often go to soldiers, police officers, firefighters, and first responders—those who answer the call, even at great personal risk. And rightfully so.
Yet, heroism is broader than we sometimes recognize. Here are a few heroes that cross my path on a nearly daily basis.
- The teacher shaping young minds for a future yet unseen.
- The diner worker waking up at 3:30 AM so your breakfast is ready at 6:00.
- The fitness center staff that greet sleepy gym-goers before dawn, offering encouragement.
- The caregiver balancing life and love for an ailing family member.
A hero, simply put, is one who puts others before themselves, then turns compassion into action.
The Bible speaks profoundly on this:
- “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” – Mark 10:45
- “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” – Galatians 5:13
- “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” – 1 Peter 4:10
- “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’” – Matthew 25:40
- “But you are not to be like that. Instead, the greatest among you should be like the youngest, and the one who rules like the one who serves.” – Luke 22:26
So, as you reflect on the heroes of history, pause to acknowledge the heroes in your everyday life and say “thank you.”
Have a GREAT (and grateful) week!