Real Heroes: The People of God

What makes a person a hero? A short time ago, Chesley Sullenberger ditched his plane into the Hudson River and saved the lives of 150 passengers when both engines were knocked out by a flock of geese. It was the first time that a major airliner was ditched into the water and no lives were lost. When the air traffic control tapes were released, Captain Sullenberger could be heard calmly describing the condition of his plane and then informing the tower that he was going to be in the Hudson River. Without a hint of panic in his voice, he put the plane down safely in the water. Then, he oversaw the evacuation of the plane. Twice, he went up and down the aisle of the aircraft while water seeped in, to make sure all of the passengers were out. Then, he escaped the plane. Saving 150 lives makes him a hero.

When I read the first twelve verses of the Sermon on the Mount, I see a person being described who acts righteously and demonstrates righteousness of character. Jesus lists four spiritual conditions that lead to righteous behavior.

1: A spirit that is poor. That is a person who cares little for what he can get out of this life and instead invests what he has into the kingdom of heaven.

2: A spirit that is meek. Meekness is having the power to force others to do the right thing, but allowing them to choose for themselves.

3: A spirit that hungers and thirsts for righteousness. Those of us who hunger and thirst for righteousness see what is wrong in the world and try to make it right. Righting a wrong satisfies the hunger.

4: Righteous people mourn. Grief is a condition. Mourning is a behavior. Grief happens to you. Mourning is a response to grief. Mourning is the decision to accept a loss. It is painful, but righteous.

Righteous people are also merciful. He who lives by the sword will die by the sword. This comes into play with those who show mercy. Righteous people make peace. Peacemakers ask the question "What is in the best interest of all parties?" They seek to meet the needs of all. They care about people in general and not one over the other.

Finally spiritual heroes identify with their hero, Jesus Christ. Three things may happen if you identify yourself as a follower of Christ, You may be insulted, persecuted, and falsely accused of things. That is the price you pay for obedience to Jesus Christ.

My hero is Jesus Christ. He demonstrated meekness and mercy when he allowed people to falsely accuse him, insult him, and kill him. He preached righteousness and acted on that righteousness.  He is my hero.

See you in church,
Ray Parish--Lay Leader