Who are the heroes in our culture? Some see sports figures as heroes. Others prefer to point to people like firefighters, disaster relief workers and military personnel. We appreciate people who do not hesitate to help others, no matter the personal cost.
Who are your heroes? You would probably add to the above list by citing personal heroes—family members, teachers, coworkers, and others who have had a great impact on your life.
I spend lots of time with heroes. In various places around the world, people have given up almost everything and committed their lives completely to seek the spiritual well-being of others. I am in contact with several older national missionaries who face intense financial struggles. They are among my heroes. An overwhelming majority of Latin American church workers depend on secular employment or the employment of a spouse in order to survive. They serve without complaining and persevere beyond my expectations. They are my heroes.
I stay in their homes and eat at their tables. They put us Christians and ministers in the U.S. to shame in the sacrifices they make. They eat things we would hardly consider eating. They do not have things we take for granted. Many live in circumstances we North Americans would abhor. I walk miles with them (and ride the public transportation with them for long trips) because they cannot afford a car. One gets used to concrete floors, open windows and doors, and cold showers. Meatless meals and rice three times a day begins to seem normal.
Sometimes others ask if they can accompany me. My answer is always “yes” but I feel compelled to issue the customary warnings—you will not hear much English, the trip may not be easy. Perhaps I am too discouraging. After all, it is an honor to meet the real heroes in this world, those who have given up much and paid a great piece, all so that others can know the love of Christ!