We hear much about heroes these days. Those who serve in the armed forces and as first responders are often called heroes. From the senior who stopped a robbery to the toddler who saved a puppy from drowning, young and old are considered heroes. From the pages of comic books to the IMAX screen, those called “super heroes” are respected and adored. Even though they are not real, they continue to attract millions of fans who praise them for their incredible deeds.
Conventions like ComicCon draw thousands upon thousands to locations all over the world where attendees dress as their favorite superhero. The lines between fantasy and reality are further blurred by those who walk the streets of cities in costume attempting to bring their brand of justice to troubled neighborhoods. The Guardians of the Galaxy, Captain America, Thor, Iron Man, Ant Man, and of course Superman, cannot only be seen in theme parks and on the big screen, but also in our cities and towns. Our culture seems to have a craving for something or someone that has the power to deliver us from whatever unfortunate, even deadly circumstances we face.
POWER TO HELP
While some see this as a passing fad, there is a reason that our attraction to superheroes is likely to endure. Human beings have an innate desire to connect with something larger than themselves. We realize that we are inadequate in ourselves to successfully and victoriously deal with the challenges of life. There must be power somewhere to help us with our problems, so we search for a Batman or a Wonder Woman to save us, only to be disappointed that they cannot come to our aid.
Alien heroes and their colorfully dressed human counterparts may not have power to help us in our time of need, but there is reason to hope, even be confident that help is available. The supernatural, super–powerful, super–caring, and super–committed helper we need is only a prayer away. The Supernatural Someone who defeated and destroyed all the forces of evil, and over whom death has no power, is accessible to us 24 hours a day. All we have to do is call, and He will be there for us.
THE POWER IS IN YOU
The Superhero that I am speaking of is not only with you when you need Him, but lives in you all the time! His name is Jesus of Nazareth, and the Bible tells us that he came to destroy the works of the devil. God has also given him a Name that is greater than any other name. Not only does Jesus fulfill our need for a connection with a power greater than we possess, but he empowers us to do what he does. You don’t need a costume to help people with a supernatural power that already resides in you. If you are a believer in Jesus, the same power that raised Him from the dead lives in you, and He has given you an assignment to use it.
Mark 16:17-18 says “And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” If you know Jesus, you have found your Superhero: now get out there and be a superhero for Him!
