Seeking True Heroes
Great are the true heroes. Heroes defy the odds, survive impossible dangers, perform feats of valor, and caress their beloved people as a mother does her newborn babe. Heroes are a worthy example and their battle is good verses evil. They overcome their opponents because of love for those whom they are seeking to protect. Levi Edgar Young said in his speech “Seek Ye Wisdom” in the 1958 Semi Annual General Conference, that “there is no life of the mind or aspiration of the spirit without emulation of great heroes.” In this world of confusion, we need good heroes to lead us through frightening times.
The most threatening enemy we have to face is Satan. He is the leader of countless false heroes, who will, if we follow their examples, lead us to sin and sorrow. Today we see many who have lost their valor – the very characteristic which truly defines a hero. Valor means to have a fear of doing base, unworthy things. Unfortunately, many have swapped the meaning for good as evil and evil for good – base for grand and unworthy for worthy. We witness a demise of virtue and a loss of moral understanding.
The nemesis has become viewed not as one to fight but rather as one to embrace. A battle lost as many who could have laid claim to the title of hero have saturated themselves with that which was once abhorred. For “Satan constantly bombards us with deceptive propaganda desirably packaged and carefully disguised (Heroes by H. David Burton, 1993 Annual General Conference).” He wishes to capture the souls of men and women and lead them with flaxen cords into his grasp.
Beyond the darkness, then we must seek for true, great heroes who hold forth a light that will continue to pierce the thick confusion surrounding us. Those who are worthy to bare the title of 'hero' will have a true understanding of good and will strive for valor. Their example will elevate and enlighten; shedding hope and love.
We learn of heroes from early writings to present day, flesh and blood examples. True heroes can be found all around us in the form of spouses, parents, leaders, friends, and siblings. We witness heroes as they sacrifice for us, love us, and place us before themselves.
No better hero ever lived than Jesus Christ – the One True Hero. He is the epitome. Christ lived his life with honesty and love. He gave peace to the troubled heart and forgiveness to the sinner. He gave His life in order to save ours. In John 15:13 Jesus taught that “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” And truly Christ gave his life for us. Countless are the examples of true heroism portrayed by Jesus Christ especially when reviewing the final week of his earthly ministry. And it is because of Jesus Christ that we have a hope, a light, and a protection if we follow Him.
Jesus Christ is a living example for all. It is through Him that we are saved both in the body and in the spirit. Only by following Him and taking His name upon ourselves and by continuing His mission will we be able to walk the halls of heaven at His side. Then we will hear Him say the words 'Well done, thou good and faithful servant (Matthew 25:21),” as He advocates for us to His Father and welcomes us into his realm.
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