HEROES:

NOT JUST MONDAYS @ 9PM
An editorial from our church newsletter @

Fruitvale Presbyterian Church

We all have heroes that have encouraged, inspired, and formed us: Superman, the Bionic Woman, Peter Parker, Barry Bonds, Alan Greenspan, Mother Theresa, that favorite teacher, even Hiro Nakamura. But we also have heroes that have let us down, deceived us, or even deserted us: Barry Bonds, Britney Spears, OJ Simpson, or maybe a relative, friend, or co-worker. Our heroes are not just assigned to the pages of Marvel comic books or the frames of Hollywood movies, they’re in our lives. They are the people that have changed us for good, who have taught us about life, how to love, and to be loved in return. What’s most striking about them is that as much as they’re people we look up to, they’re probably also people that have taught us about the human condition – that we let each other down, are only human, or what the Bible affirms, that we are all sinners and fall short of the glory of God.

My favorite TV show (Heroes) started again this week, telling the story of ordinary people who suddenly discover that they are extraordinary with “special” powers and are charged to save the world. OK, I admit I’m a Sci-Fi nut. But the premise of the story is what we all long for…I think that’s why the show is so popular. We all dream that we might be more important, or have some special purpose in the universe. Don’t we? It’s something that’s deep inside all of us as human beings – a need to have meaning, to make meaning, to lead lives of meaning, and not merely go to work every day, or accomplish our daily to-do lists. We all want to “save the world” in our own unique & relevant ways. While this all seems like classic science fiction fare, or imaginative dreaming, it’s the underlying message in all of the stories of the Christian faith. First, we each are uniquely and lovingly created by God. Second, God through the Divine Spirit invites us all to be involved in what she is doing in the world. Third, God through Christ transforms, empowers and resurrects us in order to be co-participants with him in his efforts to not just save the cheerleader, but to save the world! The stories tell of ordinary people doing extraordinary things by the power of God. For instance, an old barren couple become the parents of a nation. A timid fisherman becomes a great public speaker. Small David overcame giant Goliath. Two sisters are now remembered for all time for their example of faithfulness and a boy who shared his lunch with 5,000 people.

From now through Advent (December 2nd) we’ll be talking about our favorite heroes and heroines from the Bible in worship. It’s a great time to do so as we celebrate Halloween and reflect upon the legacies that some of our national heroes have left us. It’s a great time to celebrate, affirm and explore the mystery that in Christ, we too, are new creations, the beloved of God, ambassadors for Christ, HEROES and HEROINES sent to save the world!

-Peace to you and yours,