Superheroes We All Should Seek to Be

I love a good team of superheroes as much as the next person--The Avengers, The Fantastic Four, The X-Men, The Incredibles.  They fascinate us because of their skills and abilities, because they are cool under fire, because they will fight when no one else is willing or able, and because they do what we wish we could do and are what we wish we could be.  But there is a team of superheroes that is more needed, and I dare say, more admirable, than any character found within comic books or upon the silver screen.  This team of superheroes is known simply as "The Encouragers."

Is this a team of superheroes that grabs my attention, takes my breath, and stirs my heart?  Is this a team that I long to join?  What about you?

"The Encouragers" are there when needed:  in the depths of despair and upon the heights of honor.  They sit with you at noon or night , stand with you from the cradle to the grave, walk with you through the trials and triumphs of life, and run with you as you flee your fears and chase your dreams.  They listen when you shout your successes and whisper your failures; when you speak your mind and share your heart.  "The Encouragers" speak words of comfort and correction, words that help and heal, words that are tactful yet true.

Today in worship, our church's Children's Pastor opened God's Word and gave us a glimpse of a man whose life so qualified him to join this team, that those who knew him best changed his name from Joseph to Barnabas, which means "son of encouragement."  Now that is a transformation Dr. David Banner could envy (something all you Incredible Hulk fans will appreciate)!

So, isn't it about time we looked for integrity in our superheroes more than we look for intelligence?  Good deeds rather than good looks?  Men and women whose words can be trusted and tweeted without reservations, whose actions serve as examples rather than entertainment?

If there are "Encouragers" in your life, please do not give them catchy names, keys to your city, or pedestals from which they will surely fall.  Simply say "Thank you," and let them continue to serve humbly and where they are most comfortable--behind the scenes.

Our world is full of disillusioned and disappointed people.  The need is great.  The time is now.  The team is waiting.  Will you be an "Encourager" today?